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Antilock Brake System (ABS)
Important !
The ABS improves steering control of the vehicle during braking maneuvers. Do not pump the brake pedal, rather use
firm, steady brake pedal pressure. Pumping the brake pedal defeats the purpose for ABS and significantly reduces
braking effectiveness.
The ABS prevents the wheels from locking up above a vehicle speed of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) independent of
road surface conditions.
At the instant one of the wheels is about to lock up, a slight pulsation can be felt in the brake pedal, indicating that the
ABS is in the regulating mode. Keep firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal while experiencing the pulsation.
On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will respond even with light brake pedal pressure because of the increased
likelihood of locking wheels. The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and
functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving.
ABS Control
The ABS malfunction indicator lamp in the instrument cluster comes on with the electronic key in steering lock
position 2 and should go out when the engine is running.
If the charging voltage falls below 10 volts, the malfunction indicator lamp comes on and the ABS is switched off.
When the voltage is above this value again, the malfunction indicator lamp should go out and the ABS is operational.
With the ABS malfunctioning, the ASR or ESP, if vehicle so equipped, are also switched off. Both malfunction
indicator lamps come on with the engine running. If the ABS malfunction indicator lamp does not go out or comes on
while driving, it indicates that the ABS has detected a malfunction and has switched off. In this case, the brake
system functions in the usual manner, but without antilock assistance.
Have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.
Warning !
ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase the traction
made available by the road conditions. The ABS cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from
excessive speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely, or aquaplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and
skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ABS equipped car must never be exploited in a
reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user's safety or the safety of others.
Note:
To alert following vehicles to slippery road conditions you discover, operate your hazard warning flashers as
appropriate.