2011 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 68

66 Driving safety systems 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 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 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. ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) Important safety guidelines G Warning Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 65). The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving. Off-road ABS (vehicles with 4MATIC) An ABS system specifically suited to off-road terrain is activated automatically if the offroad drive program (Y page 193) is activated or the LOW RANGE off-road gear (Y page 194) is selected. At a speed below 18 mph (30 km/h) the front wheels lock periodically when braking. The digging-in effect achieved in the process reduces the stopping distance on off-road terrain. This limits steering capability. If ESP® detects that the vehicle is deviating from the direction desired by the driver, one or more wheels are braked to stabilize the vehicle. If necessary, the engine output is also modified to keep the vehicle on the desired course within physical limits. ESP® assists the driver when pulling away on wet or slippery roads. ESP® can also stabilize the vehicle during braking. If ESP® intervenes, the d warning lamp flashes in the instrument cluster. G Warning BAS (Brake Assist) G Warning Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 65). Never switch off the ESP® when you see the d warning lamp flashing in the instrument cluster. In this case proceed as follows: RWhen BAS operates in emergency braking situations. If you depress the brake pedal driving off, apply as little throttle as possible. RWhile driving, ease up on the accelerator pedal. RAdapt your speed and driving style to the prevailing road conditions.