2009 Mercedes CL-Class Owner's Manual - Page 67

Safety and security Driving safety systems Driving safety systems Introduction This section contains information about the following driving safety systems: RABS Safety notes G Warning! The following factors increase the risk of accidents: RExcessive speed, especially in turns RWet and slippery road surfaces RFollowing another vehicle too closely The driving safety systems described in this section cannot reduce these risks or prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle. They cannot increase braking or steering efficiency beyond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of a vehicle equipped with the driving safety systems described in this section must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user's safety or the safety of others. Always adjust your driving style to the prevailing road and weather conditions and keep a safe distance to other road users and objects on the street. If a driving system malfunctions, other driving safety systems may also switch off. Observe indicator and warning lamps that may come on as well as messages in the multifunction display that may appear. (Antilock Brake System) Brake Brake Lights RAdaptive RAdaptive RBAS RBAS REBP ABS G Observe Safety notes, see page 65. G Warning! Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pumping the brake pedal defeats the purpose of the ABS and significantly reduces braking effectiveness. The Antilock Brake System (ABS) regulates the brake pressure so that the wheels do not lock during braking. This allows you to maintain the ability to steer your vehicle. The ABS is functional above a speed of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) independent of road surface conditions. On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will respond even to light brake pressure. The - indicator lamp in the instrument cluster comes on when you switch on the (Brake Assist System) Plus (Brake Assist System Plus) (Electronic Brake Proportioning) (Electronic Stability Program) RESP® RPRE-SAFE® Brake (Preventive Occupant Safety System) i In winter operation, the maximum effectiveness of most of the driving systems described in this section is only achieved with winter tires, or snow chains as required. Z 65