Mercedes Benz C280 1999 Owner's Manual

Drive Sensibly - Save Fuel

Fuel consumption, to a great extent, depends on driving habits and operating conditions. To save fuel you should:

• keep tires at the recommended inflation pressures,

• remove unnecessary loads,

• remove roof rack when not in use,

• allow engine to warm up under low load use,

• avoid frequent acceleration and deceleration,

• have all maintenance work performed at regular intervals by an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Fuel consumption is also increased by driving in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic, on short trips and in hilly country.

MERCEDES-BENZ
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
1-800-FOR MERCEDES (in the USA.)
1-800-387-0100 (in Canada)

What You Should Know
at the Gas Station

• Fuel:
To prevent fuel vapors from escaping into open air, fully insert filler nozzle unit. Only fill fuel tank until the filler nozzle
unit cuts out - do not overfill. Leaving the engine running and the fuel cap open can cause the "Check Engine" lamp to
illuminate. Use premium unleaded gasoline: Posted Octane Index 91 (Average of 96 RON/86 MON).
Fuel tank capacity approx. 16.4 US gal (62.0 I).
This includes approx. 2.1 US gal (8.0 I) reserve.

Warning !
Gasoline is highly flammable and poisonous, it burns violently and can cause serious injury. Whenever you
are around gasoline, avoid inhaling fumes and skin contact, extinguish all smoking materials. Never allow
sparks, flame or smoking materials near gasoline!

• Engine Oil:
Engine oil level check, see Index.
Fill quantity between upper and lower dipstick marking level: 2.1 US qt (2.0 I).
Recommended engine oils, see Index.

• Spark Plugs:
Approved spark plugs, refer to "Technical Data".

• Coolant:
For normal replenishing, use water (potable water quality).
For further information (e.g. anticorrosion/antifreeze), refer to Index.

• Bulbs:
High beam: HI (55 W),
low beam: H7 (55 W),
low beam: Xenon (optional)
fog lamps: HI (55 W),
turn signal lamps, parking and standing lamps, front: 2357 NA (28.5/8.3 W/30/2.2 cp),
stop lamps: 21 W/32 cp,
backup lamps: 21 W/32 cp,
turn signal lamps, rear: 21 W/32 cp,
tail, parking, side marker and standing lamp: 5 W/4 cp,
tail and parking lamp, passenger side: 21/4 W,
tail, parking arid rear fog lamp, driver's side: 21/4W,
license plate lamps: 5 W.

• Tire Pressure:
For tire pressure, refer to tire pressure label inside the fuel filler flap.

• Air Conditioner:
R-134a refrigerant and special PAG lubricant, refer to "Technical Data" (also see Index).

Instruments and Controls

For more detailed descriptions see Index.
For adjustments of air outlets, refer to Automatic
Climate Control (see Index).

1. Side air outlet, adjustable

2. Air volume control for side air outlet

3. Exterior lamp switch

4. Parking brake release

5. Hood lock release

6. Parking brake pedal

7. Steering wheel adjustment lever

8. Combination switch

9. Cruise control switch

10. Horn, airbag

11. Instrument cluster

12. Steering lock with ignition/starter switch

13. Center air outlets, adjustable

14. Air volume control for center air outlets

15. Glove box (illuminated with electronic

key in steering lock position 1 or 2)

16. Left front seat heater switch

17. ASR or ESP control switch

18. Switch for rear seat head restraints

19. Hazard warning flasher switch

20. Central locking switch,

Indicator lamp for antitheft alarm system

21. Right front seat heater switch

22. Automatic climate control

Rear window defroster switch

23. Audio system

24. Open storage compartment

25. Ashtray with lighter
26 .Storage/eyeglasses compartment

27. Power window switches, front doors

28. Power window safety switch, rear doors

29. Airbag off indicator lamp

30. Power window switches, rear doors

31. Trunk lid release switch

32. Mirror adjustment switch

Instrument Cluster

1. Coolant temperature gauge. See Index

2. Fuel gauge with reserve and fuel cap

placement warning lamp (yellow). See Index

3. Outside temperature indicator. See Index

4. Left turn signal indicator lamp (green)

5. ASR warning lamp (yellow) or ESP warning

lamp (yellow). See Index

6. Speedometer

7. Trip odometer, See Index

8. Main odometer, or FSS indicator. See
Index

9. Right turn signal indicator lamp (green)

10. Tachometer. See Index

11. Clock. See Index

12. Push buttons for intensity of instrument

lamps. See Index

13. Push button for resetting trip odometer.
See Index

14. Push buttons for setting clock. See Index

Indicator Lamp Symbols

Function Indicator Lamp

High beam

Warning Lamps

(should go out with the engine running unless)

ASR or ESP.
Adjust driving to road condition. See Index

Fluid level for windshield and headlamp
washer system low. See Index

Coolant level low. See Index

Engine oil level low. See Index

Brake pads worn down. See Index
Brake fluid low (except Canada).

Parking brake engaged. See Index
Brake fluid low (Canada only).

Parking brake engaged.
See Index

Additional Function Indicator Lamps in
the Instrument Cluster

FSS indicator (distance).
See Index

FSS indicator (days).
See Index

Battery not being charged properly.
See Index

Exterior lamp failure. See Index

BAS malfunction. See Index
ASR malfunction. See Index

BAS malfunction. See Index
ESP malfunction. See Index

ABS malfunction. See Index

Fasten seat belts. See Index

SRS malfunction. See Index
Telescoping steering column not locked.

See Index
Engine malfunction indicator lamp. If the

lamp comes on when the engine is running,
it indicates a malfunction of the fuel
management system or emission control
system, or the fuel cap is not closed tight. In
all cases, we recommend that you have the
malfunction checked as soon as possible.
See Index

Function Indicator Lamp on
the Center Console

Passenger Airbag automatically switched
off. See Index

Catalytic Converter

Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with monolithic type catalytic converters, an important element in
conjunction with the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial control of the pollutants in the exh aust
emissions. Keep your vehicle in proper operating condition by following our recommended
maintenance instructions as outlined in your Service Booklet.

Caution!
To prevent damage to the catalytic converters, use only premium unleaded gasoline in this vehicle.
Any noticeable irregularities in engine operation should be repaired promptly. Otherwise, excessive
unburned fuel may reach the catalytic converter causing it to overheat, which could start a fire.

Warning!
As with any vehicle, do not idle, park or operate this vehicle in areas where combustible
materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system,
as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

Starting and Turning Off the Engine
Before Starting

Ensure that parking brake is engaged and that selector lever is in position "P" or "N".
Turn electronic key in steering lock to position 2. The charge indicator lamp should come on.

Starting (Model C 230)

Do not depress accelerator. Turn electronic key in steering lock cl ockwise to the stop.
Release electronic key only when the engine is firing regularly.

Starting
(Models C 280, C 43 AMG)

Do not depress accelerator. Briefly turn electronic key in steering lock clockwise to the stop and release.
The starter will engage until the engine is running. If engine will not run, and the starting procedure stops,
turn electronic key completely to the left and repeat starting the engine. After several unsuccessful attempts,
have the system checked at the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Important!

Due to the installed starter non- repeat feature, the electronic key must be turned completely to the left before
attempting to start the engine again. The battery charge indicator lamp should go out as soon as the engine
has started. In areas where temperatures frequently drop below -4°F (-20°C) we recommend that an engine block
heater be installed. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will advise you on this subject.

Turning Off

Turn the electronic key in the steering lock to position 0 to stop the engine.
The electronic key can only be removed with your foot off the brake pedal and the selector lever in position "P".

Driving Instructions
Warning !

If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that possible damage
to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on the hazard flashers, carefully slow down, and drive with
caution to an area which is a safe distance from the roadway.
Inspect the tires and under the vehicle for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires appear unsafe, have
it towed to the nearest Mercedes-Benz or tire dealer for repairs.

Power Assistance
Warning !
When the engine is not running, the brake and steering systems are without po wer assistance.
Under these circumstances, a much greater effort is necessary to stop or steer the vehicle.

Brakes
Warning !
After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through water deep enough to
wet brake components, the first braking action may be somewhat reduced and increased pedal
pressure may be necessary. Be sure to maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.
Resting your foot on the brake pedal will cause excessive and premature wear of the brake pads.
It can also result in the brakes overheating thereby significantly reducing their effectiveness.
It may not be possible to stop the car in sufficient time to avoid an accident.

The condition of the parking brake system is checked each time the car is in the shop for the required service.

If the parking brake is released and the brake warning lamp in the instrument cluster stays on, the brake fluid level in
the reservoir is too low. Brake pad wear or a leak in the system may be the reason for low brake fluid in the reservoir.
Have the brake system inspected at an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer immediately.
All checks and maintenance work on the brake system should be carried out by an authorized Mercedes-Benz deale r.
Install only brake pads and brake fluid recommended by Mercedes-Benz.

Warning !
If other than recommended brake pads are installed, or other than recommended brake fluid is used, the
braking properties of the vehicle can be degraded to an extent that safe braking is substantially impaired.
This could result in an accident.

Caution !

When driving down long and steep grades, relieve the load on the brakes by shifting into a lower gear. This helps prevent
overheating of the brakes and reduces brake pad wear. After hard braking, it is advisable to drive on for some time, rather
than immediately parking, so the air stream will cool down the brakes faster.

Tires

Tread wear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These
indicators are located in six places on the
tread circumference and become visible at a depth of
approximately1/16 in (1.5 mm), at which point the
tire is considered worn and should be replaced.
The tread wear indicator appears as a solid band across
the tread.

Warning !
Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. As tread depth approaches 1/16 in (1.5 mm), the adhesion
properties on a wet road are sharply reduced. Depending upon the weather and/or road surface (conditions),
the tire traction varies widely.

Specified tire pressures must be maintained. This applies particularly if the tires are subjected to
high loads (e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, high ambient temperatures).

Warning !
Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You may lose control
of the car. Continued driving with a flat tire or driving at high speed with a flat tire will cause excessive heat
build-up and possibly a fire.

Aquaplaning

Depending on the depth of the water layer on the road, aquaplaning may occur, even at low speeds and with new
tires.
Reduce vehicle speed, avoid track grooves in the road and apply brakes cautiously in the rain.

Tire Traction

The safe speed on a wet, snow covered or icy road is always lower than on a dry road.
You should pay particular attention to the condition of the road whenever the outside temperatures areclose to the
freezing point.

Warning !
If ice has formed on the road, tire traction will be substantially reduced. Under such weather conditions,
drive, steer and brake with extreme caution.

We recommend M + S radial- ply tires for the winter season for all four wheels to insure normal balanced handling
characteristics. On packed snow, t hey can reduce your stopping distance as compared with summer tires.
Stopping distance, however, is still considerably greater than when the road is wet or dry.

Tire Speed Rating
Model C 36 AMG only: This vehicle is factory equipped with "Z"-rated tires. All other models: Your vehicle is factory
equipped with "H"-rated tires, which have a European speed rating of 130 mph (210 km/h). An electronic speed
limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding the speed rating. Despite the tire rating, local speed limits should be
obeyed. Use prudent driving speeds appropriate to prevailing conditions.

Warning !

en when permitted by law, never operate a vehicle at speeds greater than the maximum speed rating of the

Ev
tires. Exceeding the maximum speed for which tires are rated can lead to sudden tire failure causing loss of
vehicle control and resulting in personal injury and possible death.

Parking

Warning !
To reduc
and leaving the vehicle always:

1. Keep right foot on brake pedal

2. Firmly depress parking brake pedal.

3. Move the selector lever to position "P".

4. Slowly release brake pedal.

5. Turn front wheels towards the road curb.

6. Turn the key to steering lock position 0 and remove.

7. Take your key and lock vehicle when leaving

Important !

It is advisable
position "P". When parking on hills, always set the parking brake.

Winter Driving Instructions
The mo
steering maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control system under such conditions.
When the vehicle is in danger of skidding, move selector lever to position "N". Try to keep the vehicle under control by
corrective steering action. Road salts and chemicals can adversely affect braking efficiency.
Increased pedal force may become necessary to produce the normal brake effect. We therefore recommend
depressing
the brake pedal periodically when travelling at length on salt-strewn roads. This can bring road salt impaired
braking efficiency back to normal. A prerequisite is, however, that this is done without endangering other dr ivers on
the road. If the vehicle is parked after being driven on salt treated roads, the braking efficiency should be tested as
soon as possible after driving is resumed while observing the safety rules in the previous paragraph.

Warning !
If the v
around the vehicle with engine running. Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter
vehicle interior resulting in unconsciousness and death. To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, o pen
a window slightly on the side of the car that is out of the wind.

Deep Water
Caution !

Do not drive through flooded areas or water of unknown depth. If you must drive through deep water, drive slowly to
prevent water from entering the engine compartment or being ingested by the air intake, possibly causing damage to
electrical components or wiring, to engine or transmission that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty.

Passenger Compartment
Warning !

Always fasten items being carried as securely as possible. In an accident, during hard braking or sudden
maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle, and cause injury to vehicle occupants
unless the items are securely fastened in the vehicle.

e the risk of personal injury as a result of vehicle movement, before

to set the parking brake whenever parking or leaving the vehicle. In addition, move selector lever to

st important rule for slippery or icy roads is to drive sensibly and to avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and

ehicle becomes stuck in snow, make sure that snow is kept clear of the exhaust pipe and from

turning off the engine

Automatic Climate Control

The system is always at operational readiness, except when manually
switched off. The automatic climate control only operates with the
engine running. The temperature selector should be left
at the desired temperature setting.
The temperature selected is reached as quickly as possible. The
system will not heat or cool any quicker by setting a higher or lower
temperature.

1. Air volume control for center air outlet,
turn wheel up to open

2. Air volume control for right air outlet.
To open air outlets:
Turn wheel to position

3. Center air outlets, adjustable

4. Side air outlets, adjustable

5. Display and Controls

The automatic climate control removes considerable moisture from the air during operation in the cooling mode.
It is normal for water to drip on the ground through ducts in the underbody.

Important !
This vehicle is equipped with an air conditioner system that uses HFC-134a (ozon e-friendly hydrofluorocarbon) as a
refrigerant. Repairs should always be performed by a qualified technician, and refrigerant should be coll ected in a
recovery system for recycling.

Basic Setting - Automatic Mode

Press for automatic mode.
Simultaneously press both

land for temperature setting of 72°F.

Display and Controls
Press to activate, indicator lamp is on while activated.

Automatic mode
Raise temperature
Lower temperature
Defrost

Rear window defroster

Air recirculation
Air distribution, manual
Economy mode
Air volume, manual

Residual engine heat
utilization

Air volume and distribution are controlled
automatically. This setting can be used all year
around.

Economy

The function of this setting corresponds to the
automatic mode. However, because the air
conditioning compressor will not engage (fuel
savings), it is not possible to air condition in this
setting.

Press button to activate.
Press

setting.

button once again to return to previous

Special Settings
(use only for short duration)
Defogging Windows

Switch off
Press
Press

air is directed upward.

Turn wheels (2) to position
to open left and right air outlets (4).
Adjust air outlets upward.

Defrosting
Turn wheels (2) to position to

open left and right air outlets (4).
Adjust air outlets upward.

Press
ed and automatically controlled
amount of air is directed to the
windshield and side windows.

Press button once again to

return to previous setting.

button.
. button.
button repeatedly until

button. Maximum heat-

Rear Window Defroster
Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

To select, press
To cancel, press

Note:
Heavy accumulation of snow and
ice should be removed before
activating the defroster.
The rear window defroster uses a
large amount of power. To keep
the battery drain to a minimum, turn
off the defroster as soon
as the window is clear.
The defroster is automatically turned
off after a maximum of
12 minutes of operation.
If several power consumers are
turned on simultaneously, or the
battery is only partially charged, it
is possible that the defroster will
automatically turn itself off. When
this happens, the indicator lamp
inside the switch starts blinking.
As soon as the battery has
sufficient voltage, the
defroster automatically turns
itself back on.

button.

button again.

Air Distribution

Press
the requested symbol is displayed.

Air Volume

Press - or + side of rocker switch

speed is attained.
A choice of 7 blower speeds is
available. To switch the
automatic climate control off,
press - side of rocker switch

The fresh air supply to the car interior
is shut off.
While driving, use this setting only
temporarily, otherwise the
windshield could fog up.
To switch the automatic climate

control on again, press

button repeatedly until

until the requested blower

until symbol OFF is displayed.

or + side of

Air Recirculation
This mode can be selected to prevent annoying odours or dust from entering the car's interior.
Outside air is not supplied to the car's interior.
To select, press
To cancel, press
The system will automatically switch from recirculated air to fresh air

• after approx. 5 minutes at outside temperatures below approx. 40°F (5°C),

• after approx. 30 minutes, at outside temperatures above approx. 40°F (5°C),

• after approx. 5 minutes, if button
Notes:
If the windows should fog up from the inside, switch from recirculated air back to fresh air.
At high outside temperatures, the system automatically engages the recirculated air mode thereby
increasing the cooling capacity performance, switching to partially fresh air within 20 minutes.

Dust Filter
Dust particles (down to a certain size) and pollen are filtered out before outside air enters the
passenger compartment through the air distribution system.
Notes:
Do not obstruct the air flow by placing objects on the air flow-through exhaust slots below the rear
window.
Also keep the air intake grille in front of windshield free of snow and debris.

Residual Engine Heat Utilization
With the engine switched off, it is possible to continue heating the interior for a short while.
Air volume and distribution are controlled automatically
To select:
Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 0 or remove key. Close air outlet in rear passenger
compartment.
Press
This function selection will not activate if the battery charge level is insufficient.
To cancel:
Press
The system will automatically shut off

• if you turn key in steering lock to position 2,

• after approx. 30 minutes,

• if the battery voltage drops.

button.

button.

button.
button again.

is pressed.

Car Keys

Included with your vehicle are:

• 2 electronic main keys with integrated radio frequency and infrared remote controls plus slide out and removable
mechanical key.

• 1 electronic reserve key without remote control functions, plus removable mechanical key.

Warning !

When leaving the vehicle always remove the electronic key from the steering lock, and lock your vehicle. Do
not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of
vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury. Electronic main key with integrated radio frequency
and infrared remote control, plus slide out and removable mechanical key

The remote control (1) operates all locks on the car. The mechanical keys (2) work only
in the driver's door, trunk, and storage compartment locks. The mechanical key can be
used by sliding it out of the remote control. Move lock (3) in direction of arrow and slide
the mechanical key (2, right arrow) until it locks in place. Move lock (3) in direction of
arrow and slide the mechanical key (2, left arrow) to remove. The remote control
transmitter is located in the electronic main key holder. The infrared receivers are
located in the front door handles.

Electronic reserve key without remote control functions, plus removable mechanical key.

The electronic reserve key (1) works only in the steering lock. The mechani cal key (2)
works only in the driver's door, trunk, and storage compartment locks. To use the
mechanical key (2), remove it from its electronic reserve key (1).

Notes:
We recommend that you carry the electronic reserve key with mechanical key with you and keep it in a safe place
(e.g. your wallet) so that it is always handy. Never leave the electronic reserve key in the vehicle. Remove the
mechanical key from the electronic main key when using valet parking service. To prevent access to trunk or storage

compartments lock them separ

ately.

Obtaining replacement Keys

Your vehicle is equipped with a theft deterrent locking system requiring a special key manufacturing p ro ce ss. For
security reasons, replacement keys can only be obtained from your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Start Lock-Out
Important !

Removing the electronic key from the steering lock activates the start lock-out. The engine cannot be started.
Inserting the electronic key in the steering lock deactivates the start lock-out.

Note:
In case the engine cannot be started, the system is not operational. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz
dealer or call 1-800-FOR-MERCedes.

Central Locking System
Radio Frequency and Infrared Remote Control

The electronic main key has an integrated radio and infrared remote control. Due to the extended operatio nal range
of
the remote control, it could be possible to unintentionally lock or unlock the vehicle by pressing the transmit button.
A command received by the central locking system is acknowledged by the function control lamp blinking once. The
vehicle doors, trunk and fuel filler flap can be centrally locked and unlocked. Opening and closing the windows and
sliding/pop-up roof can only be done with the infrared portion of the remote control. Aim transmitter eye (5) at a
receiver (6 or 7) and press transmit button. With vehicle centrally locked, the trunk can also be opened by using the
remote control. If the electronic key is inserted in steering lock, the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked with the
remote control.

Transmit button

1.

2.

3. Release button for mechanical key

4.

5.

6.

7.

Locking
Unlocking
Opening trunk (if not key locked)

PANIC button

Lamp for battery check and function control
Transmitter eye
Infrared receiver in driver's door handle
Infrared receiver in front passenger door handle

Locking and Unlocking

Unlocking:
Press transmit button
The remote control can be programmed for two kinds of unlocking methods (see below): Selective
unlocking mode. Press transmit button
transmit button
transmit button

Notes:
If the trunk was previously locked separately, it will remain locked (see Index). The presently active
unlocking mode (selective or global) can only be determined by unlocking the vehicle with the
remote control (see below for changing mode). The vehicle is automatically locked again, if within 40
seconds of unlocking with the remote control, neither door or trunk is ope ned, the electronic key is
not inserted in the steering lock, or the central locking switch is not activated.

Locking:
Press transmit button
locked
.
Note:
If the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked by pressing the transmit button, then it may be necessary
to change the batteries in the transmitter (if ok, battery check lamp in transmitter will light briefly
when transmitting) or to synchronize the system, see Remote Control in Index.

. All turn signal lamps blink once to indicate that the vehicle is unlocked.

once to unlock driver's door and fuel filler flap. Press

twice to unlock doors, fuel filler flap, and trunk. Global unlocking mode - Press

once to unlock doors, fuel filler flap, and trunk.

once. All turn signal lamps blink three times to indicate that the vehicle is

Choosing Global or Selective Mode on Remote Control
Press and hold transmit buttons
remote control. Battery check lamp will blink two times indicating the completed mode change.

and simultaneously for five seconds to reprogram the

Opening the Trunk

A minimum height clearance of 5.9 ft ( 1.8 m) is required to open the trunk lid. Press transmit button

until trunk lid is open.

Important !

Do not place remote control in trunk since trunk is locked again when closing the lid.
Note:

If the trunk was previously locked separately, it will remain locked (see Index).

Opening and Closing Windows and Sliding/Pop-Up Roof from Outside

Aim transmitter eye (5) of remote control at door receivers (6 or 7).
To open:
Continue to press transmit button

after unlocking car
The windows and sliding/pop-up roof begin to open after approx. 1 se cond. To interrupt opening
procedure, release button.
To close:
Continue to press transmit button

after locking car

The windows and sliding/pop-up roof begin to close after approx. 1 second. To interrupt closing
procedure, release button.

Warning !
Never operate the windows or sliding/pop-up roof if there is the possibility of anyone being
harmed by the opening or closing procedure.
In case the procedure causes potential danger, the procedure can be immediately halted by

releasing the remote control button. To reverse direction of movement press
or

Note:
If the windows and sliding/ pop-up roof cannot be operated automatically by pressing the transmit
button of the remote control then it may be necessary to change the batteries in the transmitter
(if ok, battery check lamp in transmitter will light briefly when transmitting), or to synchronize the
electronic main key, see Electronic main key, in Index.

for closing.

for opening

Panic Button
To activate press and hold button (1) for at least one second. The

alarm will last for approximately 3 minutes in form of blinking exterior
lamps, and an additional horn will sound intermittently
To deactivate press button (1) again, or insert electronic key in
steering lock.

Note:
For operation in the USA only: This devise complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Any unauthorized modification to
this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Mechanical Keys

The entire vehicle may be locked or unlocked by using either the mechanical key in driver's door or trunk lock, or
central locking switch located in center console. The central locking system also locks or unlocks the fuel filler flap.

Note:
If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, refer to Fuel Filler Flap, Manual Release (see Index).

Doors

1. Opening - pull handle

2. Unlocking

3. Locking

4. Individual door from inside:

• Push lock button down to lock.

• Pull lock button up to unlock.

When you lock the car, all door lock buttons should move down. If any one stays up, the respective door is not
properly closed. You should then unlock the car, open and reclose this door, and lock the car again. Each individual
door can be locked with door lock button - the driver's door can only be locked when it is closed. If the car has
previously been locked from the outside, only the door being opened from the inside will unlock, and the alarm will
come on. The remaining doors, the trunk lid and fuel filler flap remain locked.

Notes:
In case of a malfunction in the central locking system the doors can be locked and unlocked individually. To lock, turn
mechanical key to position 3 or push down lock buttons. To unlock, turn mechanical key to position 2 or pull up lock
buttons.

Central locking switch

1. Locking

2. Unlocking

The central locking switch is located in the center console. The doors can only be locked with the central locking
switch, if the front doors are closed. If the car was previously locked with the remote control or key, the doors and
trunk cannot be unlocked with the central locking switch. If the car was previously locke d with the central locking
switch, while in the selective remote control mode, only the door opened from the inside is unlocked. If the car was
previously locked with the central locking switch, while in the global remote control mode, the complete vehicle is
unlocked when a front door is opened from the inside.

Automatic Central Locking

The central locking switch also operates the automatic central locking.
To activate:
With electronic key in steering lock position 2 hold upper portion of switch (1) for a minimum of 5 seconds.
To deactivate:
With electronic key in steering lock position 2 hold lower portion of switch (2) for a minimum of 5 seconds.
With the automatic central locking system activated, the doors and trunk are locked at vehicle speeds of approx. 9
mph (15 km/h) or more. The fuel filler flap remains unlocked.

Notes:
If doors are unlocked with the central locking switch after activating the automatic central locking, and neither door is
opened, then the doors remain unlocked even at vehicle speeds of approx. 9 mph (15 km/h) or more. Opening a door
from the inside at speeds of approx. 9 mph (15 km/h) or less with the automatic central locking activated, the door will
again be automatically locked at speeds of approx. 9 mph (15 km/h) or more.

Emergency Unlocking in Case of Accident
The doors unlock automatically a short time after an accident (this is intended to aid rescue and exit).
However, the electronic key must still be in the steering lock.

Trunk
0 - Neutral position - push to open

1 - Unlocking
2 - Locking (detent)
3 - Separate locking of trunk - remove mechanical key in this position.

When the trunk is separately locked, it remains locked when centrally unlocking
the vehicle. To deny any unauthorized person access to the trunk, lock it

Notes:
In case of a malfunction in the central locking system the trunk can be locked and unlocked individually. To lock, turn
mechanical key to position 2 or 3. To unlock and open the trunk lid, turn mechanical key to position 1, hold and push
to open. If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, refer to Fuel Filler Flap, Manual Release (see Index).

Important!
Do not place mechanical key inside trunk, since trunk is locked again when closing the
lid.

Lower trunk lid using handle (4) and close it with hands placed flat on trunk lid.

separately. Leave only the electronic main key less its mechanical key with the
vehicle.

Power Windows and Sliding/Pop-Up Roof

1 - Opening
2 - Interrupting
3 - Closing

When locking doors or trunk, turn mechanical key in door lock or trunk lock to position 3 and hold.
The windows and the sliding/pop-up roof begin to close automatically after approximately 1 second.
To interrupt the closing procedure, turn mechanical key to position 2. When unlocking doors or trunk,
turn mechanical key in door lock or trunk lock to position 1 and hold. The windows and the
sliding/pop-up roof begin to open automatically after approximately 1 second. To interrupt the opening
procedure, turn mechanical key to position 2.

Warning !
Never operate the windows or sliding/pop-up roof if there is the possibility of anyone being

harmed by the procedure. In case the procedure causes potential danger, the procedure can
be immediately reversed by turning the mechanical key to the reversed operational direction:

• for opening position (1)

• for closing position (3).

Note:
If the opening/closing procedure is interrupted, it can only be continued by first turning the mechanical
key to the interrupting position (2) and then again to the opening/ closing position (1 or 3) and hold.

Antitheft Alarm System

1. Indicator lamp in switch located in center console

The antitheft alarm is automatically armed or disarmed with the remotecontrol or
any of your vehicle's mechanical keys by locking or unlocking the driver's door or the trunk.
A blinking lamp (1) indicates that the alarm is armed.

Operation
Once the alarm system has been armed, the exterior vehicle lamps will flash and the horn will sound
intermittently when someone:

• opens a door,

• opens the trunk,

• opens the hood.

The alarm will last approximately 21/2 minutes in the form of blinking exterior lamps. At the same time an additional
horn will sound intermittently for 60 seconds, pause for 30 seconds, and repeat for another 60 seconds.
The alarm will stay on even if the activating element (a door, for example) is immediately closed.

Note:
We recommend that you carry the electronic reserve key with mechanical key with you and keep it in a safe place
(e.g. your wallet) so that it is always handy. Never leave the electronic reserve key in the vehicle.

Seats, Front
Warning !

Do not adjust the driver's seat while driving. Adjusting the seat while driving could cause the driver to lose
control of the vehicle. Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat back reclined. Sitting in an excessively
reclined position can be dangerous.
You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the
abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The seat backrest and seat belt provide
the best restraint when the wearer is in an upright position and the belt is property positioned on the body.
Never place hands under seat or near any moving parts while a seat is being adjusted

A - Seat, fore/aft
B - Seat, up/down
C - Seat tilt
D - Backrest tilt
E - Head restraint

Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level.
The head restraint angle can also be adjusted manually.
Note:
Your car is equipped with power head restraints, do not try to raise or lower them manually.

Power Seat
The slide switches are located in each front door. Turn electronic key in steering lock to position 1 or 2 (with a front
door open, the power seats can also be operated with the electronic key removed or in steering lock position 0).

Warning !
When leaving the vehicle always remove the electronic key from the steering lock. The power seats can also
be operated with the driver's or passenger door open. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle or with
access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

Caution !

Do not remove head restraints except when mounting seat covers. For removal refer to Head Restraints, Front, see
Index. Whenever restraints have been removed be sure to reinstall them
before driving.

Important !

Prior to operating the vehicle, the driver should adjust the seat height for proper vision as well as fore/aft placement
and seat back angle to insure adequate control, reach, operation, and comfort. The head restraint should also be
adjusted for proper height. See also airbag section for proper seat positioning. Both the inside and outside rear view
mirrors should be adjusted for adequate rearward vision. Fasten seat belts. Infants and small children should be
seated in a properly secured restraint system that complies with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and
Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.1. All seat, head restraint, and rear view mirror adjustments as well as
fastening of seat belts should be done before the vehicle is put into motion.

Warning !
Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized
BabySmart™ compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmart™ system installed in the vehicle to
deactivate the passenger side airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag
when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result. The back seat is the safest place
for children. Infants and small children must ride in the back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or
child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle's seat belt, fully in accordance with the seat
manufacturer's instructions. A child's risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child
restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restrain t.

Manual Seat
(Standard equipment on Model C 230 passenger side)

1. Fore/aft adjustment

2. Seat height adjustment

3. Seat cushion inclination adjustment

4. Seat back adjustment

5. Head restraint inclination

6. Head restraint height
Fore/aft Adjustment

Lift handle (1), slide seat to desired position and allow handle to reengage.
Check for proper engagement before driving.

Seat Height Adjustment
Raise or lower lever (2). The seat will be raised or lowered one notch at a time.
Allow lever to reengage. Check for proper engagement before driving.

Seat Back Adjustment
Turn handwheel (4).

Seat Cushion Inclination Adjustment
Turn handwheel (3) forward or
backward.

Head Restraint Height
Raising:
Pull up on head restraint.
Lowering:
Push button (6) and push down on head restraint.
Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level.
The head restraint inclination can also be adjusted manually.

Caution !
Do not remove head restraints except when mounting seat covers. For removal refer to Head
Restraints in Index. Whenever restraints have been removed be sure to reinstall them before driving.

Multicontour Seat (optional)

1. Seat cushion depth

2. Backrest bottom

3. Backrest center

4. Side bolster adjustment

Some models may be equipped with multicontour seats. These seats have mova ble seat cushions,
and inflatable air cushions built into the backrest to provide additional lumbar and side support.
The seat cushion movement and amount of backrest cushion height and cu rvature can be
continuously varied with regulators (1, 2 and 3) after turning the electronic key in steering lock to
position 2.

The side bolsters of the backrest can be adjusted with rocker switch (4):

• press down forward end-increase side support,

• press down rearward end-decrease side support.
If the engine is turned off, the last cushion setting is retained in memory, and automatically adjusts
the cushion to this setting when the engine is restarted.

Heated Seats (optional)

The front seat heater switches are located in the center console. The front seat heaters
can be switched on with the electronic key in steering lock positions 1 or 2.

Press switch to turn on heater:

1. Normal heating mode. One indicator lamp in the switch lights up.

2. Rapid heating mode. Bo indicator lamps in the switch light up. After approximately

5 minutes in the rapid heating mode, the heater automatically witches to normal
operation and only one indicator lamp will stay on.

Turning off heater:
If one indicator lamp is on, press upper half of switch.
If both indicator lamps are on, press lower half of switch.
If left on, the heater automatically turns off after approximately 30 minutes of operation.

Note:
When in operation, the seat heater consumes a large amount of electrical power. It is not advisable to use the seat
heater longer than necessary. The seat heaters may automatically switch off if too many power consumers are
switched on at the same time, or if the battery charge is low. When this occurs, the indicator lamp in the switch will
blink (both indicator lamps blink during rapid seat heating). The seat heaters will switch on again automatically as
soon as sufficient voltage is available. If the blinking of the indicator lamps is distracting to you, the seat heaters can
be switched off.

Armrest (Rear Bench Seat)

Pull down the armrest. For removal of rear seat cushion, see Index.

Cup Holder in Rear Bench Armrest

Briefly press drawer and pull out to its detent.
Caution!

Keep cup holder closed while travelling. Place only containers
that fit into the cup holder to prevent spills.
Do not fill containers to a height where the contents could spill
during vehicle maneuvers, especially hot liquids.

Adjusting Telescoping Steering Column (optional)

Warning!
Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. The telescoping

adjustment must be locked while driving. Adjusting the steering
wheel while driving, or driving without the telescoping adjustment
locked could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Unlocking:
Pull handle (1) out to its stop. The indicator lamp comes on.
Adjusting:
To lengthen or shorten the steering column, pull out or push in steering wheel.
Locking:
Push handle (1) in until it engages.
The indicator lamp goes out.

Important!
With the electronic key in steering lock position 2, an indicator lamp in the instrument cluster comes on. It should go
out when the engine is running. If the indicator lamp does not go out after starting the engine, the adjustable steering
column is not locked properly. Do not drive the vehicle until you have properly locked the steering column.