Stabilisation control (ESC)
Assist systems
Read and observe and on page 114 first.
Brake assist systems
The ESC system helps to maintain control of the vehicle in situations where it
is being operated at its dynamic limits, such as a sudden change to the direc-
tion of travel. Depending on the road surface conditions, the risk of skidding is
reduced, thereby improving the vehicle's driving stability .
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Stabilisation control (ESC)
114
115
115
115
The ESC system is automatically activated each time the ignition is switched
on.
Antilock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control System (ASR)
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL and XDS)
The direction which the driver wishes to take is determined based on the
steering angle and the speed of the vehicle and is constantly compared with
the actual behaviour of the vehicle. If differences exist, such as the car begin-
ning to skid, the ESC system will automatically brake the appropriate wheel.
WARNING
■
A lack of fuel can cause irregular engine running or cause the engine to
shut down. The brake assist systems would then be without function –
there is the risk of an accident.
Adjust the speed and driving style to the current visibility, weather, road
and traffic conditions. The increased safety offered by the brake assist sys-
tems must not tempt you to take greater risks than otherwise – there is
the risk of an accident.
During an intervention of the system, the warning light flashes in the instru-
ment cluster.
■
The following systems are integrated into the electronic stabilisation control
(ESC):
Antilock brake system (ABS),
Traction control (TCS),
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL and XDS);
Hydraulic brake assist (HBA);
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■
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Visit a specialist garage immediately in the event of an ABS fault. Adjust
›
your style of driving according to the damage to the ABS as you will not
know how great the damage is and the limitation it is placing on the brak-
ing efficiency.
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Hill hold control (HHC).
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The ESC system cannot be deactivated. The » Fig. 112 on page 115 button
can only be used to deactivate the TCS. The warning light comes on in the
instrument cluster when the TCS is deactivated.
CAUTION
■
All four wheels must be fitted with the same tyres approved by the manufac-
turer to ensure the brake assist systems operate correctly.
Changes to the vehicle (e.g. to the engine, brakes, chassis) can influence the
functionality of the brake assist systems » page 126, Services, modifications
and technical alterations.
In the event of an ESC fault, the ESC warning light illuminates in the instru-
ment cluster » page 38.
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Hydraulic brake assist (HBA)
HBA increases the braking effect and helps to shorten the braking distance.
■
If a fault occurs in the ABS system, the ESC, TCS and EDL will also fail to
work. An ABS fault is indicated with by the warning light » page 38.
The HBA is activated by very rapid depression of the brake pedal. To achieve
the shortest possible braking distance, the brake pedal must be applied firmly
until the vehicle has come to a complete standstill.
HBA is automatically switched off when the brake pedal is released.
ABS is activated sooner and more effectively with the intervention of HBA.
114
Driving