Bas; Esp - Mercedes-Benz 2008 M-Class Operator's Manual

Safety and Security
Driving safety systems

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 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.
Warning!
If the BAS is malfunctioning, the brake sys-
tem is still functioning, but without the addi-
tional brake boost available that BAS would
normally provide in an emergency braking
maneuver. Therefore, the braking distance
may increase.
100
Warning!
The BAS cannot prevent the natural laws of
physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can
it increase braking efficiency beyond that
afforded by the condition of the vehicle
brakes and tires or the traction afforded.
The BAS cannot prevent accidents, includ-
ing those resulting from excessive speed in
turns, following another vehicle too closely,
or hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and
skillful driver can prevent accidents. The
capabilities of a BAS equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or danger-
ous manner which could jeopardize the
user's safety or the safety of others.
G
®

ESP

G
The Electronic Stability Program (ESP
operational as soon as the engine is run-
ning. It monitors the vehicle's traction
(force of adhesive friction between the
tires and the road surface) and handling.
®
The ESP recognizes when a wheel is
spinning or if the vehicle starts to skid. By
applying brakes to the appropriate wheel
and by limiting engine output, the ESP
works to stabilize the vehicle. The ESP
especially useful while driving off and on
wet or slippery road surfaces. The ESP
also helps stabilize the vehicle during
braking and steering maneuvers.
® warning lamp v in the instru-
The ESP
ment cluster ( page 26) flashes when the
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ESP is engaged.
® warning lamp v in the instru-
The ESP
ment cluster comes on when you switch on
the ignition. It goes out when the engine is
running.
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