2011 Mercedes GLK-Class Owner's Manual - Page 64

62 Driving safety systems 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. Braking If ABS intervenes when braking, you will feel a pulsing in the brake pedal. X If ABS intervenes: continue to depress the brake pedal with force until the braking situation is over. X To make a full brake application: depress the brake pedal with full force. If the ABS malfunctions, other driving systems such as the BAS or the ESP® are also switched off. Observe indicator and warning lamps that may come on as well as messages in the multifunction display that may appear. If the ABS malfunctions, the wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing the steering capability and extending the braking distance. Safety G Warning i In wintry driving conditions, always use winter tires (M+S tires) and if necessary, snow chains. Only in this way will the driving safety systems described in this section work as effectively as possible. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Important safety notes G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 61). The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving. G Warning BAS (Brake Assist) G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 61). 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. ABS regulates brake pressure in such a way that the wheels do not lock when you brake. This allows you to continue steering the vehicle when braking. ABS works from a speed of about 5 mph (8 km/h) upwards, regardless of roadsurface conditions. ABS works on slippery surfaces, even when you only brake gently. The ! warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up when the ignition is switched on. It goes out when the engine is running. BAS operates in emergency braking situations. If you depress the brake pedal quickly, BAS automatically boosts the braking force, thus shortening the stopping distance. X Keep the brake pedal firmly depressed until the emergency braking situation is over. ABS prevents the wheels from locking. The brakes will function as usual once you release the brake pedal. BAS is deactivated. G Warning If the BAS malfunctions, the brake system still functions, but without the additional brake boost available that the BAS would normally provide in an emergency braking maneuver. Therefore, the braking distance may increase.