The Telligent^® brake system, fitted as standard, comprises a regulated dual-circuit brake system, internally ventilated disc brakes all round, ABS, ASR and auxiliary brakes such as the engine brake or retarder. The system transmits every braking signal at lightning speed – much faster than any mechanical system could achieve. And it can be applied with the same degree of sensitivity you'd expect in a car. The braking force is distributed to the best possible effect between the tractor vehicle and the semitrailer or trailer depending on the load the vehicle is carrying. The Telligent^® brake system also ensures that brake pad wear is spread evenly across all axles. Brake Assist can immediately identify a risky situation from the speed at which the brake pedal is depressed, and responds in an instant: full braking effect is activated. The integrated continuous braking function automatically causes activation of the service brake (constantly open throttle and brake flap) and, if present, the retarder. And the integrated hill holder can prevent unintended rolling forwards or backwards, making driving away easier and safer. The Telligent^® brake system can also be supplemented with deactivatable ABS. This allows wheels to be deliberately locked when braking if the situation requires it in extreme off-road use.

The clear-lens headlamps, fitted as standard, provide excellent visibility in the dark and therefore greater safety. And for better illumination of the carriageway with even greater luminosity, xenon and bi-xenon headlamps are also available. A headlamp cleaning system can also be supplied on request to provide further enhanced safety.

Better illumination of the carriageway, increased safety – xenon and bi-xenon versions of the headlamps for the Actros are also available on request. With a range of 65 metres when dipped and 180 metres on high beam, these headlamps provide visibility in the dark that's similar to daylight conditions, thereby further enhancing safety. The glass covers can be replaced separately if they become damaged, meaning repairs are quicker and cheaper to carry out.

The rain and light sensor with five adjustable settings is available on request to improve safety and convenience: it automatically activates the windscreen wipers if it starts to rain and switches on the driving light e.g. when entering a tunnel.

As always, safety comes first in the Actros. This includes good visibility – both ahead and behind. As standard, the Actros has a heated front mirror, which gives a good view when seated of the area in front of the cab, and large rear-view mirrors with heating that can be switched on and off manually – this not only prevents them from misting up or freezing over but, if switched off in time, also stops dirt particles and salt from becoming baked on. The special curve of the mirror glass also goes a long way to eliminating the blind spot. The geometry of the exterior mirrors ensures that there is less vibration and helps prevent the accumulation of dirt to the sides. On request, the exterior mirror covers are available in the colour of the cab, in two-part chrome or with a ribbed surface.

Safety is relative. Risk reduction is not. That's why the Actros has a driver's airbag available on request in conjunction with a seatbelt retractor. Depending on the severity and nature of the accident an electronic control unit can trigger the airbag in two stages and simultaneously activate the seatbelt retractor, which tightens the seatbelt against the driver's body as much as possible.

The front, rear and side underride guards also contribute to safety. In particular, they are designed to protect other road-users. In the event of a collision with a passenger car the guards help reduce the extent to which the car's passenger cell is compressed. The front, rear and side underride guards are available as standard equipment for all performance classes of the Actros, depending on the configuration of the vehicle.