2011 Mercedes SL-Class Owner's Manual - Page 57

Driving safety systems Safety notes G Warning! The following factors increase the risk of accidents: RExcessive RWet 55 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 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 the ABS activates during braking, the ABS/ ESP® warning lamp ÷ or d7 in the instrument cluster flashes. Because of the electro-hydraulic brake system, you will not feel any pulsation in the brake pedal. X Keep firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal. Continuous, steady brake pedal pressure yields the advantages provided by the ABS, namely braking power and the ability to steer the vehicle. The ABS/ESP® warning lamp ÷ or d7 flashes whenever the ABS is activated. It can be an indication for hazardous road conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving. ABS G Observe Safety notes, see page 55. 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. Emergency brake maneuver X Keep continuous full pressure on the brake pedal. G Warning! If the ABS malfunctions, other driving safety 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. 7 Depending on vehicle production date. Z Safety and security 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.