Mercedes-Benz 500 SL Owner's Manual page 100

Antilock Brake System (ABS)
Important!
The ABS improves steering control of
the vehicle during braking maneuvers.
For maximum benefit, do not pump the
brake pedal, rather use firm, steady
brake pedal pressure.
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.
On slippery road surfaces, the ABS
will respond even with only slight
brake pedal pressure. 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 key in steering lock position 2 and
should go out with the engine 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!
Even the ABS cannot prevent the
natural laws of physics from acting
on the vehicle. 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.
Notes:
To alert following vehicles to slippery
road conditions you discover, operate
your hazard warning flashers as
appropriate.
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