Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) prevents the braked wheels from locking up in order to avoid loss of traction with the road surface. The ABS performs the well-known technique of repeatedly pressing and releasing the brake pedal, but does so at a rate impossible for even the most experienced drivers.

Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), which is an integral part of the ABS system, automatically redistributes braking force between the front and rear wheels depending on the vehicle load.

Do Not "Pump" the Brake Pedal

Do not attempt to perform the ABS function by rapidly pressing and releasing the brake pedal. During emergency braking, press the brake pedal firmly and steadily and steer the vehicle with the steering wheel. This braking technique is sometimes summarized as "stand on the brake and steer."

When the ABS activates, you will feel slight pulsations in the brake pedal, which may be accompanied by a slight noise. This is not a sign of a malfunction. The pulsations are caused by rapid cyclic changes of pressure in the hydraulic brake circuit. On dry road surfaces, the ABS activates only during emergency braking. On the other hand, when braking on ice or snow-covered roads, the ABS may activate almost immediately after applying slight pressure to the brake pedal.

ABS Malfunction Indicator

The illuminated ABS malfunction indicator means that the anti-lock braking system is deactivated. The main brake system remains fully operational, except for the additional functions performed by the ABS. You should contact an authorized dealer service station immediately for inspection and repair of the vehicle.

If the ABS warning light comes on while driving, check the brake system in accordance with the instructions on page 470.

In addition, the following icon appears on the multi-information display: "" warning symbol will be displayed on the multi-function display, which may be accompanied by the message "CHECK SYSTEM".

If the ABS warning light comes on together with the parking brake/brake system warning light (with the parking brake fully released), this also means that the Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) system is deactivated.

Check the condition of the vehicle's brake system in accordance with the instructions on page 470. Even if the brake system is functioning normally, if the ABS is malfunctioning, drive slowly and carefully and contact your dealer or service station as soon as possible. Avoid sudden braking, which may cause the rear wheels to lock and result in loss of directional stability.

The ABS warning light also comes on together with the VSA warning light.

Important Safety Information: The ABS does not shorten braking distance or reduce the stopping distance of the vehicle. The ABS can only help maintain steering control while braking.

The ABS does not prevent side slipping of the wheels during sudden changes of direction, for example when cornering at too high a speed or when turning the steering wheel sharply while changing lanes. Always maintain a safe vehicle speed, taking into account road surface and weather conditions.

The ABS cannot prevent loss of directional stability under all conditions. During emergency braking, avoid jerking the steering wheel and sudden braking. This may result in loss of directional stability and uncontrolled movement, and the vehicle may move into oncoming traffic or into a ditch.

A vehicle equipped with ABS may have a longer stopping distance when driving on loose or uneven roads (gravel, snow).