Mercedes-Benz 2002 M-Class Automobile User Manual


 
193Driving instructions
Technical
data
Instruments
and controls
Operation Driving
Instrument
cluster display
Practical hints Car care Index
Power assistance
Brakes
Excessive use of road salt and other snow melting
chemicals spread on roads during the winter months
may cause a build up of moisture or residue to form on
the braking components. This build up or residue could
cause light corrosion of the braking components if the
vehicle is parked with the brakes cold. Apply steady and
even braking pressure when stopping the vehicle to
warm up and dry the brake components.
Important!
Please pay attention to the function of the brake assist
system (BAS), see page 217.
The condition of the parking brake system is checked
each time the vehicle is in the shop for the required
maintenance service.
If the parking brake is released and the brake warning
lamp in the instrument cluster stays on and there is no
audible warning (EBP), the brake fluid level in the
reservoir is too low.
Brake pad wear or a leak in the system may be the
reason for low brake fluid in the reservoir.
Have the brake system inspected at an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center immediately.
Warning!
When the engine is not running, the brake and
steering systems are without power assistance.
Under these circumstances, a much greater effort is
necessary to stop or steer the vehicle.
Warning!
After driving in heavy rain for some time without
applying the brakes or through water deep enough
to wet brake components or salty road conditions,
the first braking action may be somewhat reduced
and increased pedal pressure may be necessary to
obtain expected braking effect. Be sure to maintain
a safe distance from vehicles in front.
Resting your foot on the brake pedal will cause
excessive and premature wear of the brake pads.
It can also result in the brakes overheating thereby
significantly reducing their effectiveness. It may
not be possible to stop the vehicle in sufficient time
to avoid an accident.