Mercedes Benz 2003 sl 500 User Manual

68

Safety and Security

Driving safety systems
Driving safety systems

In this section you will find information on 
the following driving safety systems:

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ABS (Antilock Brake System)

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BAS (Brake Assist System)

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ESP (Electronic Stability Program)

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SBC brake system (Sensotronic Brake 
Control)

The ABS regulates the brake pressure so 
that the wheels do not lock during braking. 
This allows you to maintain the ability to 
steer your vehicle.

The ABS is functional above a speed of ap-
proximately 5 mph (8 km/h) independent 
of road surface conditions.

On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will re-
spond even with light brake pressure.

If the ABS activates during braking, the 
ABS/ESP warning lamp v in the speed-
ometer dial flashes. Because of the SBC 
brake system, you will not feel any pulsa-
tion in the brake pedal.

i

In winter operation, the maximum ef-
fectiveness of the ABS, the BAS, the 
ESP, and SBC is only achieved with win-
ter tires (M+S tires), or snow chains as 
required.

G

The following factors increase the risk of ac-
cidents:

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excessive speed, especially in turns

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wet and slippery road surfaces

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following another vehicle too closely

ABS, BAS, ESP and SBC cannot reduce this 
risk.

Always adjust your driving style to the pre-
vailing road and weather conditions.

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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 effective-
ness.