140 Driving and operatingParking brakeAlways apply parking brake firmlywithout operating the release button,and apply as firmly as possible on adownhill or uphill slope.To release the parking brake, pull thelever up slightly, press the releasebutton and fully lower the lever.To reduce the operating forces of theparking brake, depress the foot brakeat the same time.Control indicator R 3 89.Brake assistIf the brake pedal is depressedquickly and forcefully, maximumbrake force is automatically applied(full braking).Maintain steady pressure on thebrake pedal for as long as full brakingis required. Maximum brake force isautomatically reduced when thebrake pedal is released.Hill start assistThe system helps prevent unintendedmovement when driving away oninclines.When releasing the foot brake afterstopping on an incline, the brakesremain on for a further 2 seconds. Thebrakes release automatically as soonas the vehicle begins to accelerate.Ride control systemsElectronic stabilityprogramElectronic stability program(ESP®Plus) improves driving stabilitywhen necessary, regardless of thetype of road surface or tyre grip. It alsoprevents the drive wheels fromspinning.As soon as the vehicle starts toswerve (understeer/oversteer),engine output is reduced and thewheels are braked individually. Thisconsiderably improves the drivingstability of the vehicle on slippery roadsurfaces.ESP®Plus is operational as soon ascontrol indicator v extinguishes.When ESP®Plus comes into action vflashes.
