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08 Starting and driving
08
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.
289
The function only operates in first gear posi-
tion and in reverse gear. For an automatic
gearbox, gear position 1 must be selected,
which is shown with the figure
1 in the com-
bined instrument panel; see Automatic gear-
box - Geartronic* (p. 273).
NOTE
HDC cannot be activated on an automatic
gearbox in position D.
Operation
HDC allows the car to roll at a maximum of
10 km/h forwards with engine braking and
7 km/h backwards. However, any speed
within the gear's speed register can be
selected using the accelerator pedal. When
the accelerator pedal is released, the car is
braked quickly to 10 or 7 km/h respectively,
irrespective of the hill's gradient and without
the need for the footbrake.
The brake lights come on automatically when
the function is operating. The driver can brake
or stop the car at any time by using the foot-
brake.
HDC is deactivated:
•
with the on/off button on the centre con-
sole
•
if a gear higher than 1 is selected on a
manual gearbox
•
if a gear higher than 1 is selected on an
automatic gearbox, or if the gear selector
is moved to position D.
The function can be disengaged at any time.
If it takes place on a steep downhill gradient
then the braking effect will not release
directly, but slowly instead.
NOTE
With HDC activated you may experience a
delay between acceleration pedal activa-
tion and engine response.
Foot brake
The foot brake is used to reduce the car's
speed while driving.
The car is equipped with two brake circuits. If
one brake circuit is damaged then this will
mean that the brakes engage at a deeper
level and harder pressure on the pedal is nee-
ded to produce the normal braking effect.
The driver's brake pedal pressure is assisted
by a brake servo.
WARNING
The brake servo only works when the
engine is running.
If the brake is used when the engine is
switched off then the pedal will feel stiff and
more force must be used to brake the car.
In very hilly terrain or when driving with a
heavy load the brakes can be relieved by
using engine braking. Engine braking is most
efficiently used if the same gear is used
downhill as up.
For more general information on heavy loads
on the car, see Engine oil - adverse driving
conditions (p. 446).
Cleaning the brake discs
Coatings of dirt and water on the brake discs
may result in delayed brake function. This
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