Brakes

New brake pads

New brake pads do not yet have their full braking capacity during the first 400 kilometers; they must first be "bedded in". You can compensate for this slight loss of braking efficiency by pressing the brake pedal harder. During the bedding-in period, avoid excessive brake loading.

Wear

Brake pad wear depends mainly on operating conditions and driving style. This applies particularly if you drive mostly in town, make frequent short trips or drive very sporty.

Rain or road salt

In certain situations, for example after driving through puddles, in rainy weather or after washing the vehicle, brake application may be delayed due to moisture or, in winter, frost that has formed on the brake pads and discs. The brakes must first "dry out" during braking.

When the vehicle speed exceeds 80 km/h and the windshield wipers are switched on, the brake pads briefly contact the brake discs. This process, which is not noticeable to the driver, takes place at regular intervals and improves braking performance in rainy conditions.

Similarly, if you drive on roads that have been treated with road salt and have not braked for a long time, full braking effectiveness will only be achieved after a certain delay. The film of salt that has formed on the brake discs and pads must first be removed by friction during braking.

Corrosion

Long periods of standing, too few kilometers driven and lack of brake use encourage corrosion on the brake discs and contamination of the brake pads.

If the braking system has been used little or rust has already formed, apply the brakes firmly several times at high speed to clean the brake discs and pads.

Brake malfunction

If you suddenly notice that the brake pedal travels further than usual, one of the two brake circuits may have failed. Go to the nearest qualified workshop and have the fault rectified. Drive at low speed and remember that the braking distance is longer and that you must apply more pressure to the brake pedal.

Brake fluid level too low

If the brake fluid level is too low, malfunctions can occur in the braking system. The fluid level is monitored electronically.

Brake booster

The brake booster amplifies the force you apply through the brake pedal. It only works when the engine is running.

CAUTION!

• Only apply the brakes repeatedly to clean the braking system when road conditions allow it. Never endanger other road users - risk of accident!
• Never move the vehicle when the engine is stopped - risk of accident!

Warning!

• Never keep the brakes in light contact by applying slight pressure to the pedal when you do not need to brake. The brakes could overheat, and braking distance and brake wear would increase.
• Before driving on a long, steep downhill road, reduce your speed and engage the next lower gear (manual transmission) or select a lower range (automatic transmission). You then benefit from engine braking and relieve the brakes. If you also need to brake, do not brake continuously but apply the brakes intermittently.

Note

• If the power steering fails, e.g. because the vehicle has to be towed or because the brake booster is faulty, you must press the brake pedal much harder than usual.
• If you later fit a front spoiler, solid wheel covers or other similar accessories, make sure the front wheels still receive adequate cooling air, otherwise the braking system may overheat.