Mercedes-Benz 2003 E 500 Automobile User Manual


 
74
Safety and Security
Driving safety systems
Continuos steady brake pedal pressure
yields the advantagesprovided by the ABS,
namely braking power and ability to steer
the vehicle.
The - warning lamp in the instrument
cluster lights up when you turn the key in
the starter switch to position 2 or press
the KEYLESS-GO* (if so equipped)
start/stop button twice. It goes out when
the engine is running.
More information can be found in the
"Practical hints" section (
page 289).
BAS
The Brake Assist System (BAS) operates in
emergency situations. If you apply the
brakes very quickly, the BAS automatically
provides full brake boost, thereby poten-
tially reducing the braking distance. Apply
continuous full braking pressure until the
emergency braking situation is over. The
ABS will prevent the wheels from locking.
When you release the brake pedal, the
brakes function again as normal. The BAS
is then deactivated.
i
To alert following vehicles to slippery
road conditions you discover, operate
your hazard warning flashers as appro-
priate.
Warning! G
The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of
physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can
it increase braking or steering efficiency be-
yond that afforded by the condition of the
vehicle brakes and tires or the traction. 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 ca-
pabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or danger-
ous manner which could jeopardize the us-
er’s safety or the safety of others.