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Driver correction devices and aids

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Driver correction devices and aids

  • ABS(anti-lock braking system);
  • ESC(electronic stability control) with understeer control and traction control;
  • emergency brake assist;
  • hill start assistance.
Other driving assistance systems are detailed on the following pages.
WARNING
These functions are an additional aid in the event of critical driving conditions, enabling the vehicle behaviour to be adapted to suit the driving conditions.
However, the functions do not take the place of the driver. They do not increase the vehicle's limits and should not encourage you to drive more quickly. Therefore, they can under no circumstances replace the vigilance or responsibility of the driver when manoeuvring the vehicle (the driver must always be ready for sudden incidents which may occur when driving).

ABS (anti-lock braking system)

Under heavy braking, the ABS prevents the wheels from locking, allowing the stopping distance to be managed and keeping control of the vehicle.
Under these circumstances, the vehicle can be steered to avoid an obstacle whilst braking. In addition, this system can increase stopping distances, particularly on roads with low surface grip (wet ground etc.).
You will feel a pulsation through the brake pedal each time the system is activated. The ABS does not in any way improve the vehicle’s "physical" performance relating to the road surface and roadholding. It is still essential to follow the rules of good driving practice (such as driving at a safe distance from the vehicle in front etc.).
Tip
In an emergency, apply firm and continuous pressure to the brake pedal. There is no need to pump it repeatedly. The ABS will modulate the force applied in the braking system.
Operating faults:
  • and lit up on the instrument panel, accompanied by the "Check ABS", "WARNING: Check Braking System" and "Check ESC" messages: the ABS, ESC and emergency brake assist are deactivated. Braking is still provided;
  • , , and lit on the instrument panel accompanied by the "WARNING: Braking System" message: this indicates a fault with the braking system.
In both cases, please consult an Authorised Dealer.
WARNING
Your braking systems are partially operational. However, it is dangerous to brake suddenly and it is essential to stop immediately, as soon as traffic conditions allow. Call an approved Dealer.

Electronic stability control ESC with understeer control and traction control

Electronic stability control ESC
This system helps you to keep control of the vehicle in critical driving conditions (avoiding an obstacle, loss of grip on a bend, etc.).
Operating principle
A sensor in the steering wheel detects the direction selected by the driver.
Other sensors throughout the vehicle measure the actual direction.
The system compares driver input to the actual trajectory of the vehicle and corrects the trajectory if necessary by controlling the braking of certain wheels and/or engine power. In the event that the system is engaged, indicator light flashes on the instrument panel.
Understeer control
This system optimises the action of the ESC in the case of pronounced understeering (loss of front axle road holding).
Traction control
This system helps to limit wheelspin of the drive wheels and to control the vehicle when pulling away accelerating or decelerating.
Operating principle
Using the wheel sensors, the system measures and compares the speed of the drive wheels at all times and slows down their over-rotation. If a wheel is starting to slip, the system brakes automatically until the drive supplied becomes compatible with the level of grip under the wheel again.
The system also adjusts the engine speed to the grip available under the wheels, independently of the pressure exerted on the accelerator pedal.
Operating faults
When the system detects an operating fault, the "Check ESC" message and the and warning lights appear on the instrument panel. In this case, the ESC and traction control system are deactivated.
Consult an approved dealer.
ESC and traction control in Track mode
After pressing and holding the switch 1 to select Track mode, the ESC functions can be modified and delay the driving assistance (refer to "Choice of driving mode" in Section 2).
Disabling the ESC and traction control functions
In some situations (driving on very wet ground: snow, mud, or driving in Sport, Track mode, etc.), you can disable these functions by pressing and holding the switch 2.
The warning light and the "ESC OFF" message are displayed on the instrument panel to warn you.
You can reactivate these functions at any time by briefly pressing the switch 2.
Tip
Any change of driving mode implemented by pressing the switch 1 reactivates the ESC and traction control functions (refer to "Choice of driving mode in Section 2).

Emergency brake assist

This system supplements the ABS and helps reduce vehicle stopping distances.
Operating principle
The system is for detecting an emergency braking situation. In this case, the braking assistance immediately develops maximum power and may trigger ABS regulation.
ABS braking is maintained as long as the brake pedal is applied.
Hazard warning lights switching on
Depending on the vehicle, these may light up in the event of sudden deceleration.
Braking anticipation
Depending on the vehicle, when you rapidly release the accelerator, the system anticipates the braking manoeuvre in order to reduce stopping distances.
Special cases
When using the cruise control:
  • if you use the accelerator pedal when you release it, the system may be triggered;
  • if you do not use the accelerator, the system will not be triggered.
Operating faults
When the system detects an operating fault, the "WARNING: Check Braking System" appears on the instrument panel along with the warning light.
Consult an approved dealer.
WARNING
These functions are an additional aid in the event of critical driving conditions, enabling the vehicle behaviour to be adapted to suit the driving conditions.
The functions do not take the place of the driver. They do not increase the vehicle's limits and should not encourage you to drive more quickly. Therefore, they can under no circumstances replace the vigilance or responsibility of the driver when manoeuvring the vehicle (the driver must always be ready for sudden incidents which may occur when driving).

Hill start assistance

Depending on the gradient of the incline, this system assists the driver when starting on a hill. It prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards by automatically applying the brakes when the driver lifts his/her foot off the brake pedal to depress the accelerator pedal.
System operation
It only operates when the gearbox is in D position and the vehicle is completely stationary (brake pedal pressed).
The system holds the vehicle for approximately 2 seconds. The brakes are then gradually released (the vehicle will move according to the slope).
WARNING
The hill start assistance system cannot completely prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards in all situations (extremely steep gradients etc.).
In all cases, the driver may depress the brake pedal to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards.
The Hill Start Assist function should not be used for prolonged stops: use the brake pedal.
This function is not designed to immobilise the vehicle permanently.
If necessary, use the brake pedal to stop the vehicle.
The driver must remain particularly vigilant when driving on slippery or low-grip surfaces.
Risk of serious injury.