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Driving and the environment188
If you drive with wet brakes, for example, after crossing areas of water, in
heavy rainfall or even after washing the car, the effect of the brakes is less-
ened as the brake discs are wet or even frozen (in winter): in this case, “dry”
the brakes by applying the brakes carefully several times
WARNING
Longer braking distances and faults in the brake system increase the risk
of accidents.
• New brake pads must be run in and do not have the correct friction
during the first 200 km. The slightly reduced braking effect can be compen-
sated for by increasing pressure on the brake pedal. This also applies when
new brake pads are fitted.
• If brakes are wet or frozen, or if you are driving on roads which have
been gritted with salt, braking power may set in later than normal.
• When driving downhill, the brakes work hard and get hot very quickly.
Before driving down a long steep gradient, it is advisable to reduce speed
and change to a lower gear (or move the selector lever to a lower gear if
your vehicle has automatic transmission). In this way you will make use of
the engine braking effect and relieve the load on the brakes.
• Never let the brakes “rub” by only applying light pressure. Continuous
braking will cause the brakes to overheat and will increase the braking
distance. Apply and then release the brakes alternately.
• Never let the vehicle coast with the engine switched off. The braking
distance is increased considerably as the brake servo does not work.
• Very heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid
is left in the system for too long. This impairs the braking effect.
• Non-standard or damaged front spoilers could restrict the airflow to the
brakes and cause them to overheat. Observe the notes ⇒ page 204 before
buying accessories.
• If a brake circuit fails, the braking distance will be increased consider-
ably. Contact a qualified workshop immediately and avoid unnecessary
journeys.
Exhaust gas emission control system
Catalytic converter*
To conserve the useful life of the catalytic converter
– Always use unleaded petrol.
– Do not run the fuel tank dry.
– For engine oil changes, do not replenish with too much engine oil
⇒ page 217, “Topping up engine oil ”.
– Never tow the vehicle to start it, use jump leads if necessary
⇒ page 250.
If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss of power when the vehicle is
moving, reduce speed immediately and have the vehicle inspected at the
nearest qualified workshop. These symptoms are communicated by the
exhaust gas warning lamp ⇒ page 72. If this happens, unburnt fuel can enter
the exhaust system and escape into the environment. The catalytic converter
can also be damaged by overheating.
WARNING
The catalytic converter reaches very high temperatures! Fire hazard!
• Never park where the catalytic converter could come into contact with
dry grass or inflammable materials under the vehicle.
• Do not apply additional underseal or anti-corrosion coatings to the
exhaust pipes, catalytic converter or the heat shields on the exhaust
system, because the heat from the engine could ignite them.
alhambra_aleman.book Seite 188 Montag, 23. M‰rz 2009 1:12 13
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