Mercedes Benz 2003 c 320 User Manual

73

Safety and Security

Driving safety systems

Driving safety systems

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

앫

ABS (Antilock Brake System)

앫

BAS (Brake Assist System)

앫

ESP (Electronic Stability Program)

앫

4MATIC* (Four Wheel Electronic Trac-
tion System)

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.

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. Keep firm and steady 
pressure on the brake pedal while experi-
encing the pulsation.

i

In winter operation, the maximum ef-
fectiveness of the ABS, ESP and 
4MATIC* is only achieved with winter 
tires (M+S tires), or snow chains as re-
quired.

G

The following factors increase the risk of ac-
cidents:

앫

Excessive speed, especially in turns

앫

Wet and slippery road surfaces

앫

Following another vehicle too closely

The ABS, BAS, ESP and 4MATIC* cannot re-
duce this risk.

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

G

Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, 
steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pump-
ing the brake pedal defeats the purpose of 
the ABS and significantly reduces braking 
effectiveness.