2010 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 65

Driving safety systems Driving safety systems Introduction This section contains information about the following driving safety systems: RABS 63 (Antilock Brake System) Brake Brake Lights RAdaptive RAdaptive RBAS RBAS REBP RESC (Brake Assist System) PLUS (Brake Assist System PLUS) (Electronic Brake Proportioning) (Electronic Stability Control) G Warning! RPRE-SAFE® Brake (Preventive Occupant Safety System Brake) 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. Safety notes G Warning! The following factors increase the risk of accidents: RExcessive RWet HYBRID vehicles: It is imperative that you read the HYBRID Supplemental Operating Instructions included in your vehicle literature portfolio. You may otherwise not receive all necessary safety information and warning for the operation of your vehicle. ABS G Observe Safety notes, see page 63. 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. speed, especially in turns another vehicle too closely and slippery road surfaces RFollowing 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 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 ABS indicator lamp ! in the instrument cluster comes on when you switch on the ignition. It goes out when the engine is running. Z Safety and security 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.