Mercedes ML 63 AMG 2011 User Manual

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Page 1

M-Class

Operator's Manual

Page 2

Symbols

Registered trademarks:

AdBlue® is a registered trademark of the Association of German Automobile Manufacturers (VDA).

BabySmart™ is a registered trademark of the Siemens Automotive Corp.

Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of the Bluetooth SIG Inc.

ESP® and PRE-SAFE® are registered trademarks of Daimler AG.

HomeLink® is a registered trademark of Prince, a Johnson Controls Company.

SIRIUS and related brands are registered trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc.

In this Operator's Manual you will find the following symbols:

Warning

Warning notices draw your attention to hazards that endanger your health or life, or the health or life of others.

Warning notices draw your attention to hazards that could cause damage to your vehicle.

Practical tips or other information that could be helpful to you.

This symbol indicates instructions that you must follow.

A number of these symbols appearing in succession indicates instructions with several steps.

Y page

This symbol tells you where to look for further information on a topic.

This symbol marks a warning or procedure which is continued on the next page.

Display

Text in the multifunction display/ COMAND display.

Page 3

Welcome to the world of Mercedes-Benz

Before you drive off, please familiarize yourself with your vehicle and read this manual, especially the safety and warning notices. This will help you to obtain the maximum pleasure from your vehicle and to avoid endangering yourself and others.

The equipment or product designation of your vehicle may vary depending on:

model

order

country specification

availability

Mercedes-Benz is constantly updating its vehicles to the state of the art.

Mercedes-Benz therefore reserves the right to introduce changes in the following areas:

design

equipment

technical features

You cannot therefore base any claims on the data, illustrations or descriptions contained in this manual.

The following are integral parts of the vehicle:

Operator's Manual

Brief Instructions

Service Booklet

Supplements relating to vehicle equipment

Keep these documents in the vehicle at all times. When you sell the vehicle, always pass the documents on to the new owner.

The technical documentation team at Daimler AG wishes you safe and pleasant motoring.

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. A Daimler Company

Canada only.

1645843783

É1645843783DËÍ

Page 4

Page 5

Contents

Index ....................................................... 4

Introduction ......................................... 19

At a glance ........................................... 25

Safety ................................................... 35

Opening and closing ........................... 71

Seats, steering wheel and mirrors .... 91

Lights and windshield wipers .......... 105

Climate control ................................. 121

Driving and parking .......................... 137

On-board computer and displays .... 203

Loading, stowing and features ........ 255

Maintenance and care ...................... 281

Roadside assistance ......................... 295

Tires and wheels ............................... 323

Technical data ................................... 353

Page 6

Index

1, 2, 3 ...

115 V socket ...................................... 269

12 V socket ........................................ 268

4ETS

see ETS/4ETS

4MATIC (permanent four-wheel

drive) .................................................. 191

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Display message ............................ 228

Function/notes ................................ 65

Warning lamp ................................. 249

Accident (notes) ................................ 297

Active light function (display

message) ............................................ 233

Active service system

see Service interval display

Adaptive Damping System (ADS) ..... 184

AdBlue

Adding ........................................... 156

Display message ............................ 236

Additional functions (on-board

computer) .......................................... 219

ADS (Adaptive Damping System) ..... 184

Air bags

Display message ............................ 225

Front air bag (driver, front

passenger) ....................................... 39

Important safety information ........... 38

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

indicator lamp (only Canada) ........... 48

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

indicator lamp (only USA) ................ 42

Safety guidelines ............................. 37

Side impact air bag .......................... 40

Window curtain air bag .................... 41

Air-conditioning system

see Climate control

Air dehumidification

Activating/deactivating with

cooling ........................................... 129

Air distribution

Setting ........................................... 132

Air filter (display message) .............. 236

Airflow

Setting ........................................... 132

AIRMATIC package ............................ 183

Air nozzles

see Air vents .................................. 135

Air pressure

see Tire pressure

Air-recirculation mode

Activating/deactivating ................. 133

Air vents ............................................. 135

Important safety information ......... 134

Rear ............................................... 135

Setting the center air vents ........... 135

Setting the side air vents ............... 135

Alarm system

see ATA

Ambient lighting (on-board

computer) .......................................... 216

AMG menu (on-board computer) ..... 209

Anti-lock Braking System

see ABS

Anti-Theft Alarm system

see ATA

Anti-theft system

ATA (Anti-Theft Alarm system) ......... 69

Approach/departure angle .............. 170

Ashtray ............................................... 267

ATA (Anti-Theft Alarm system)

Activating/deactivating ................... 69

Function ........................................... 69

Switching off the alarm .................... 69

Audio menu (on-board computer) .... 211

AUTO lights

see Light sensor

Automatic car wash .......................... 288

Automatic transmission

DIRECT SELECT lever ..................... 144

Display message ............................ 243

Driving tips .................................... 147

Emergency running mode .............. 151

Kickdown ....................................... 147

Malfunction .................................... 151

Program selector button ................ 147

Pulling away ................................... 141

Starting .......................................... 141

Trailer towing ................................. 147

Page 7

Index

BAS (Brake Assist System) ................. 66

Battery

Charging ........................................ 314

Checking (SmartKey) ....................... 76

Display message ............................ 235

Important safety guidelines

(SmartKey) ....................................... 75

Jump-starting ................................. 315

Replacing (SmartKey) ...................... 76

Safety notes .................................. 312

Voltage (on-board computer) ......... 209

Belt

see Seat belts

Blind Spot Assist

Activating/deactivating (on-

board computer) ............................ 219

Display message ............................ 239

Function/notes ............................. 189

Trailer towing ................................. 191

BlueTEC

AdBlue® ......................................... 360

Adding AdBlue® ............................. 156

Brake fluid

Notes ............................................. 362

Brake fluid level ................................ 286

Brake lamp (display message) ......... 231

Brakes

ABS .................................................. 65

BAS .................................................. 66

Brake fluid (notes) ......................... 362

Display message ............................ 229

High-performance brake system .... 163

Maintenance .................................. 162

Parking brake ........................ 159, 163

Warning lamp ................................. 247

Braking

Important safety instructions ......... 161

Breakdown

see Accident (notes) see Flat tire

Bulbs

Backup lamp .................................. 115

Brake lamp .................................... 115

High-beam headlamps ................... 113

License plate lamp ......................... 116

Low-beam headlamps .................... 113

Overview ........................................ 112

Parking lamps ................................ 114

Rear fog lamp ................................ 115

Replacing ....................................... 114

Standing lamps (front) ................... 114

Standing lamps (rear) .................... 115

Tail lamps ...................................... 115

Turn signal lamp ............................ 115

Turn signals (front) ......................... 114

CAC

(Customer Assistance Center) ......... 22

California

Important notice for retail

customers and lessees .................... 20

Calling up a malfunction

see Display messages

Care

Carpets .......................................... 293

Car wash ........................................ 288

Display ........................................... 292

Gear or selector lever .................... 292

Headlamps ..................................... 291

Notes ............................................. 288

Paint .............................................. 290

Plastic trim .................................... 292

Power washer ................................ 289

Rear view camera .......................... 291

Roof lining ...................................... 293

Seat belt ........................................ 293

Seat covers .................................... 292

Sensors ......................................... 291

Steering wheel ............................... 292

Tail pipes ....................................... 291

Trim strips ..................................... 292

Washing by hand ........................... 289

Wheels ........................................... 289

Windows ........................................ 290

Wiper blades .................................. 290

Wooden trim .................................. 292

Cargo compartment cover ............... 261

Cargo compartment enlargement ... 258

Cargo compartment floor ................. 298

Cargo net

Attaching ....................................... 262

Important safety information ......... 261

Page 8

Index

Cargo tie down rings ......................... 260

CD player/CD changer (on-board

computer) .......................................... 212

Center console ..................................... 31

Central locking

Automatic locking (on-board

computer) ...................................... 217

SmartKey ......................................... 72

Changing bulbs

Headlamps ..................................... 111

Changing gears .................................. 146

Changing the programming

SmartKey ......................................... 75

Checklist

After driving off-road ...................... 168

Before driving off-road ................... 167

Child-proof locks

Rear doors ....................................... 63

Special seat belt retractor ............... 61

Children

In the vehicle ................................... 58

Restraint systems ............................ 59

Child seat

Automatic recognition ..................... 48

Automatic recognition/air bag

deactivation, self-test ...................... 50

ISOFIX (LATCH-type child seat

anchors) ........................................... 61

Special seat belt retractor ............... 61

Top Tether ....................................... 62

Troubleshooting ............................... 51

Cigarette lighter ................................ 267

Climate control

Activating/deactivating ................. 128

Activating/deactivating air-

recirculation mode ......................... 133

Controlling automatically ............... 130

Cooling with air dehumidification .. 129

Defrosting the windshield .............. 132

Demisting the windows .................. 133

Dual-zone automatic climate

control ........................................... 123

Important safety information ......... 122

Indicator lamp ................................ 130

Multi-zone automatic climate

control ........................................... 124

Problems with "cooling with air

dehumidification" ........................... 130

Problems with the rear window

heating .......................................... 133

Rear control panel ................. 125, 128

Refrigerant ..................................... 362

Setting the air distribution ............. 132

Setting the airflow ......................... 132

Setting the air vents ...................... 135

Setting the temperature ................ 131

Setting the temperature (rear

compartment) ................................ 131

Switching the MONO function on/

off .................................................. 132

Switching the rear window

heating on/off ............................... 133

Switching the residual heat

function on/off .............................. 134

Clock (on-board computer) ............... 215

Cockpit ................................................. 27

Collapsible spare wheel

Inflating ......................................... 309

see Emergency spare wheel

Combination switch .......................... 109

Compass ............................................ 279

Calling up ....................................... 279

Consumption statistics (on-board

computer) .......................................... 219

Convenience closing feature .............. 86

Convenience opening feature ............ 86

Coolant (engine)

Checking the level ......................... 285

Display message ............................ 233

Notes ............................................. 362

Temperature gauge ........................ 208

Cooling

see Climate control

Cornering light (display message) ... 230 Crash-responsive emergency

lighting ............................................... 111

Cruise control .................................... 171

Cruise control lever ....................... 172

Display message ............................ 239

Cup holder ......................................... 265

Center console .............................. 265

Rear compartment ......................... 266

Current fuel consumption (on-

board computer) ............................... 220

Page 9

Index

Customer Assistance Center

(CAC) ............................................... 22

Customer Relations Department ....... 22

Dashboard

see Cockpit

Date (on-board computer) ................ 215

Daytime driving lights

Display message ............................ 233

Switching on/off (on-board

computer) ...................................... 215

Delayed switch-off

Exterior lighting (on-board

computer) ...................................... 216

Interior lighting (on-board

computer) ...................................... 217

Diesel particle filter .......................... 161

Differential locks ............................... 196

Differential locks (display

message) ............................................ 238

Digital speedometer

Displaying ...................................... 208

Setting the unit (on-board

computer) ...................................... 214

DIRECT SELECT lever

see Automatic transmission

Display (cleaning instructions) ........ 292

Display messages

Brakes ........................................... 228

Calling up (on-board computer) ..... 222

Clearing (on-board computer) ........ 222

Engine ............................................ 233

Lamps ............................................ 233

Safety systems .............................. 223

Service interval display .................. 287

Tires ............................................... 241

Vehicle ........................................... 243

Distance recorder ............................. 208

Distance warning function

(vehicles with DISTRONIC) ................. 69

Activating/deactivating (on-

board computer) ............................ 219

Distance warning lamp ..................... 253

DISTRONIC ......................................... 173

Display message ............................ 240

Displays in the multifunction

display ........................................... 179

Driving tips .................................... 179

Setting the specified minimum

distance ......................................... 177

Warning lamp ................................. 253

Door

Automatic locking ............................ 79

Automatic locking (on-board

computer) ...................................... 217

Display message ............................ 244

Emergency locking ........................... 80

Emergency unlocking ....................... 80

Opening (from inside) ...................... 79

Door control panel

Overview .......................................... 33

Doors

Important safety notes .................... 78

Drinking and driving ......................... 160

Drinks holder

see Cup holder

Drive program

Automatic ...................................... 148

Manual ........................................... 149

Driving abroad ................................... 171

Driving in mountainous terrain

Approach/departure angle ............ 170

Driving on flooded roads .................. 164

Driving safety system

EBD (Electronic Brake force

Distribution) ..................................... 68

ESP® (Electronic Stability

Program) .......................................... 66

ETS/4ETS (Electronic Traction

System) ........................................... 67

Important safety information ........... 65

Driving safety systems

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) ....... 65

BAS (Brake Assist System) .............. 66

Distance warning system

(vehicles with DISTRONIC) ............... 69

Overview .......................................... 65

Driving systems

Blind Spot Assist ............................ 189

Cruise control ................................ 171

DISTRONIC .................................... 173

Level control .................................. 181

Page 10

Index

PARKTRONIC ................................. 184

Rear view camera .......................... 187

Driving tip

Braking .......................................... 163

Driving tips ........................................ 147

DISTRONIC .................................... 179

Downhill gradients ......................... 161

Driving on flooded roads ................ 164

Driving on sand .............................. 168

Driving over obstacles ................... 169

Off-road driving .............................. 167

Off-road fording ............................. 164

Tire ruts ......................................... 169

Towing a trailer .............................. 198

Wet road surface ........................... 162

Winter ............................................ 166

DSR (Downhill Speed

Regulation) ......................................... 192

Display message ............................ 239

Setting (on-board computer) .......... 219

DVD audio (on-board computer) ...... 212

EASY-ENTRY feature ......................... 100

Activating/deactivating (on-

board computer) ............................ 218

EASY-EXIT feature ............................. 100

Crash-responsive ........................... 101

EASY-PACK cargo compartment

management system ........................ 263

EASY-PACK load-securing kit ........... 263

EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution)

Display message ............................ 229

Function/notes ................................ 68

Electrical fuses

see Fuses

Electronic Brake-force Distribution)

see EBD

Electronic Stability Program

see ESP®

Electronic Traction System

see ETS/4ETS

Emergency call

see mbrace

Emergency release

Fuel filler flap ................................. 153

Vehicle ............................................. 80

Emergency running mode

Automatic transmission ................. 151

Emergency spare wheel

Storage location ............................ 299

Stowing .......................................... 299

Emergency tensioning device

Function ........................................... 57

Safety guidelines ............................. 37

Emergency unlocking

Tailgate ............................................ 84

Emissions purification

Service and warranty information .... 19

Engine

Irregular running ............................ 143

Starting problems .......................... 143

Starting the engine with the key .... 141

Starting with KEYLESS GO ............. 141

Switching off .................................. 158

Warning lamp (engine

diagnostics) ................................... 252

Engine electronics

Malfunction .................................... 143

Engine emergency stop .................... 322

Engine number .................................. 356

Engine oil

Adding ........................................... 284

Checking the oil level ..................... 283

Display message ............................ 235

Lubricant additives ........................ 361

Notes about oil grades ................... 361

Temperature (on-board computer) . 209

Viscosity ........................................ 361

ESP® (Electronic Stability Program)

Activating/deactivating ................... 67

Display message ............................ 223

ETS/4ETS ........................................ 67

Important safety information ........... 66

Trailer stabilization ........................... 68

Warning lamp ................................. 250

ETS/4ETS (Electronic Traction

System) ................................................ 67

Exhaust check ................................... 161

Page 11

Index

Exhaust tail pipe (cleaning

instructions) ...................................... 291

Exterior lighting

see Lights

Exterior mirrors

Adjusting ....................................... 101

Dipping (automatic) ....................... 102

Folding in/out (automatically) ....... 102

Folding in/out (electrically) ........... 102

Folding in when locking (on-board

computer) ...................................... 218

Out of position ............................... 102

Setting ........................................... 102

Storing settings (memory

function) ........................................ 103

Storing the parking position .......... 103

Exterior view ........................................ 26

Filling capacity

see Technical data

First-aid kit ......................................... 297

Flat tire

Changing a wheel/mounting the

spare wheel ................................... 305

MOExtended run-flat system ......... 311

Preparing the vehicle ..................... 300

Raising the vehicle ......................... 306

TIREFIT kit ...................................... 301

Floormat ............................................. 279

Front fog lamp (display

message) ............................................ 232

Fuel

Additives ........................................ 359

Notes ............................................. 358

Premium-grade unleaded gasoline . 358

Refueling ........................................ 151

Specifications ................................ 358

Troubleshooting ............................. 155

Fuel consumption

Current (on-board computer) ......... 220

Notes ............................................. 160

Fuel filler cap (display message) ..... 236

Fuel filler flap

Emergency release ........................ 153

Opening/closing ............................ 153

Fuel filter (display message) ............ 236

Fuel level

Calling up the range (on-board

computer) ...................................... 220

Fuses

Dashboard fuse box ....................... 321

Engine emergency stop ................. 322

Fuse allocation chart ..................... 321

Fuse box in the cargo

compartment ................................. 321

Fuse box in the engine

compartment ................................. 321

Notes ............................................. 320

Garage door opener

Clearing the memory ..................... 279

Notes ............................................. 276

Opening/closing the garage door .. 278 Programming the remote control ... 276

Gear indicator (on-board

computer) .......................................... 209

Gear or selector lever (cleaning

guidelines) ......................................... 292

Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts ......... 354

Genuine wood trim and trim strips

(cleaning instructions) ...................... 292

Glove box ........................................... 257

GTW (Gross Trailer Weight)

(definition) ......................................... 345

Headlamp cleaning system .............. 109

Adding washer fluid ....................... 286

Notes ............................................. 363

Headlamp delayed switch-off

see Delayed switch-off, exterior lighting

Headlamp mode (daytime driving)

see Daytime running lamps

Headlamps

Cleaning ......................................... 291

Misting up ...................................... 110

Setting ........................................... 116

Head restraint

Adjusting (electrically) ..................... 95

Head restraints

Adjusting (manually) ........................ 95

Page 12

Index

Adjusting (rear) ................................ 96

Installing/removing (rear) ................ 96

Luxury .............................................. 95

see NECK-PRO head restraints

Heating

see Climate control

High beam flasher ............................. 109

Hill start assist .................................. 142

Hood

Closing ........................................... 283

Opening ......................................... 282

Hydroplaning ..................................... 163

Immobilizer .......................................... 69

Indicator and warning lamps

ABS ................................................ 249

Brakes ........................................... 247

DISTRONIC .................................... 253

Engine diagnostics ......................... 252

ESP® .............................................. 250

Fuel tank ........................................ 252

Reserve fuel ................................... 252

Seat belt ........................................ 248

SRS ................................................ 251

Tire pressure monitor .................... 253

Insect protection on the radiator .... 283

Instrument cluster

Overview .......................................... 28

Selecting the language (on-board

computer) ...................................... 214

Submenu (on-board computer) ...... 214

Warning and indicator lamps ........... 29

Instrument cluster lighting ................ 28

Instrument lighting

see Instrument cluster lighting

Interior lighting

Automatic control .......................... 111

Delayed switch-off (on-board

computer) ...................................... 217

Emergency lighting ........................ 111

Manual control ............................... 111

Reading lamp ................................. 110

Setting ambient lighting (on-board

computer) ...................................... 216

ISOFIX (LATCH-type child seat

securing system) ................................. 61

Jack

Storage location ............................ 298

Using ............................................. 306

Jump-starting ..................................... 315

Key

Convenience closing feature ............ 86

Convenience opening feature .......... 86

Display message ............................ 245

Starting the engine ........................ 141

KEYLESS-GO

Button ............................................ 139

Convenience closing feature ............ 86

Locking ............................................ 73

Starting the engine ........................ 141

Unlocking ......................................... 73

Key positions

KEYLESS-GO .................................. 139

SmartKey ....................................... 139

Kickdown ................................... 147, 149

Lane-change assistant

see Blind Spot Assist

Language (on-board computer) ........ 214

Level control ...................................... 181

Level control (display message) ...... 237

Level setting

Basic settings ................................ 182

License plate lamp (display

message) ............................................ 232

Light

Setting ambient lighting (on-board

computer) ...................................... 216

Lights

Activating/deactivating the interior lighting delayed switch-off

(on-board computer) ...................... 217

Automatic headlamp mode ............ 107

Cornering light function ................. 110

Daytime running lamps .................. 107

Driving abroad ............................... 106

Fog lamps ...................................... 108

Hazard warning lamps ................... 109

Page 13

Index

High-beam headlamps ................... 109

Light switch ................................... 106

Low-beam headlamps .................... 107

Rear fog lamp ................................ 108

Switching the daytime driving lights on/off (on-board computer) . 215 Switching the exterior lighting delayed switch-off on/off (on-

board computer) ............................ 216

Switching the surround lighting

on/off (on-board computer) .......... 215

Light sensor (display message) ....... 233

Loading guidelines ............................ 256

Locking

Automatic ........................................ 79

Emergency locking ........................... 80

From inside the vehicle (central

locking button) ................................. 79

Low-beam headlamp (display

message) ............................................ 230

LOW RANGE

Display message ............................ 238

Off-road gear ................................. 194

LOW RANGE off-road gear ................ 194

Luggage net ....................................... 258

Lumbar support

4-way lumbar support ...................... 97

Luxury head restraints ....................... 95

Main-beam headlamps (display

message) ............................................ 231

Malfunction message

see Display messages

Malfunctions relevant to safety

Reporting ......................................... 23

Manual drive program ...................... 149

mbrace

Call priority .................................... 274

Display message ............................ 224

Downloading destinations

(COMAND) ..................................... 274

Emergency call .............................. 271

Important safety notes .................. 270

Locating a stolen vehicle ............... 275

MB info call button ........................ 273

Roadside Assistance button .......... 272

Self-test ......................................... 271

System .......................................... 271

Vehicle remote unlocking .............. 275

Mechanical key

Function/notes ................................ 75

Memory card (on-board computer) . 212

Memory function ............................... 103

Menu (on-board computer)

Additional functions ....................... 219

AMG ............................................... 209

Audio ............................................. 211

DISTRONIC .................................... 179

DVD ............................................... 212

Message memory .......................... 222

Navigation ..................................... 212

Off-road ......................................... 213

Off-road mode ............................... 211

Overview of menus ........................ 207

Resetting to factory settings .......... 213

Settings ......................................... 213

Standard display ............................ 208

Telephone ...................................... 220

Trip computer ................................ 219

Messages

see Display messages

Mirrors

Sun visor ........................................ 266

see Exterior mirrors or Rear-view mirror

MOExtended run-flat system ........... 311

MP3

Operating (on-board computer) ..... 212

see separate operating instructions

Multicontour seat ................................ 97

Multifunction display ........................ 206

Multifunction steering wheel

Operating the on-board computer . 205

Overview .......................................... 30

Navigation

On-board computer ....................... 212

see separate operating instructions

NECK-PRO head restraints

Operation ......................................... 52

Resetting triggered .......................... 53

Notes on breaking-in a new

vehicle ................................................ 138

Page 14

Index

Occupant Classification System (OCS)

Faults ............................................... 47

Operation ......................................... 42

System self-test ............................... 45

Occupant safety

Children in the vehicle ..................... 58

System overview .............................. 36

OCS

Faults ............................................... 47

Operation ......................................... 42

System self-test ............................... 45

Octane number (fuel) ........................ 358

Odometer ........................................... 208

Off-road

4MATIC .......................................... 191

Differential locks ............................ 196

DSR ............................................... 192

LOW RANGE off-road gear ............. 194

Off-road 4ETS .................................. 67

Off-road ABS .................................... 66

Off-road drive program .................. 193

Off-road drive program ..................... 193

On-board computer ....................... 211

Off-road driving ................................. 167

Important safety instructions ......... 166

Off-road fording ................................. 164

Off-road terrain

Off-road ESP .................................... 68

Oil

see Engine oil

On-board computer

Additional functions menu ............. 219

AMG menu ..................................... 209

Audio menu ................................... 211

Convenience submenu .................. 218

Displaying a service message ........ 287

Displaying the coolant

temperature ................................... 208

Displaying the outside

temperature ................................... 208

Display messages .......................... 222

DISTRONIC menu .......................... 179

Factory settings ............................. 213

Important safety notes .................. 204

Instrument cluster submenu .......... 214

Lighting submenu .......................... 215

Message memory menu ................. 222

Navigation menu ............................ 212

Off-road menu ............................... 213

Off-road mode ............................... 211

Operating video DVD ..................... 212

Operation ....................................... 205

Overview of menus ........................ 207

Selecting the language .................. 214

Settings menu ............................... 213

Standard display menu .................. 208

Telephone menu ............................ 220

Time/Date submenu ..................... 215

Trip computer menu ...................... 219

Vehicle submenu ........................... 217

Opening and closing the side trim

panels ................................................. 114

Operating system

see On-board computer

Outside temperature

Calling up (on-board computer) ..... 208

Display ........................................... 204

Overhead control panel

Overview .......................................... 32

Override feature

Rear side windows ........................... 64

Paint code number ............................ 355

Paintwork (cleaning instructions) ... 290

Panic alarm .......................................... 64

Parking ............................................... 158

Parking aid

PARKTRONIC ................................. 184

Rear view camera .......................... 187

Parking brake .................................... 159

Parking lamp (display message) ...... 232

Parking position

Exterior mirror on the front-

passenger side ............................... 103

PARKTRONIC ...................................... 184

Activating/deactivating ................. 186

Malfunction .................................... 187

Problem ......................................... 187

Range of the sensors ..................... 185

Trailer towing ................................. 186

Warning display ............................. 185

Page 15

Index

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF indicator

lamp (only Canada) ............................. 48

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF indicator

lamp (only USA) ................................... 42

Pedals ................................................. 160

Permanent four-wheel drive

see 4MATIC

Plastic trim (cleaning instructions) . 292

Power supply (trailer) ....................... 201

Power washers .................................. 289

Power windows

see Side windows

Pre-emptive occupant safety system

see PRE-SAFE® system

PRE-SAFE® system

Display message ............................ 224

Operation ......................................... 51

Product information ............................ 19

Program selector button .................. 147

Pulling away

Automatic transmission ................. 141

RACETIMER (on-board computer) .... 209

Radar sensor system (on-board

computer) .......................................... 217

Radiator cover ................................... 283

Radio

Changing a station (on-board

computer) ...................................... 211

see separate operating instructions

Radio-controlled equipment

Assembly ....................................... 279

Range (on-board computer) ............. 220

Rear bench seat

Folding forwards/back .................. 259

Rear compartment

Activating/deactivating climate

control ........................................... 129

Setting the air vents ...................... 135

Setting the temperature ................ 131

Rear fog lamp (display message) ..... 232

Rear view camera

Function/notes ............................. 187

Rear view camera (cleaning

instructions) ...................................... 291

Rear-view mirror

Anti-glare (manual) ........................ 101

Dipping (automatic) ....................... 102

Rear window heating

Malfunction .................................... 133

Switching on/off ........................... 133

Rear window wiper ........................... 118

Replacing the wiper blade .............. 119

Refueling ............................................ 151

Remote control

Programming (garage door

opener) .......................................... 276

Reporting

Malfunctions relevant to safety ........ 23

Reserve fuel

Display message ............................ 236

Warning lamp ................................. 252

Reset button ........................................ 28

Residual heat

Switching on/off ........................... 134

Restraint systems

see SRS

Reversing lamp (display message) .. 232

Roadside Assistance (breakdown) .... 20

Roof carrier ........................................ 265

Roof lining and carpets (Cleaning

guidelines) ......................................... 293

Route

see Route guidance (on-board computer)

Route guidance (on-board

computer) .......................................... 212

Safety

Children in the vehicle ..................... 58

Child restraint systems .................... 59

Occupant Classification System

(OCS) ............................................... 42

Overview of occupant safety

systems ........................................... 36

Safety systems

see Driving safety systems

Seat belts

Adjusting the driver's and front-

passenger seat belt ......................... 56

Adjusting the height ......................... 56

Page 16

Index

Belt force limiters ............................ 57

Cleaning ......................................... 293

Correct usage .................................. 54

Emergency Tensioning Devices ........ 57

Fastening ......................................... 55

Important safety guidelines ............. 53

Releasing ......................................... 56

Safety guidelines ............................. 37

Switching belt adjustment on/off

(on-board computer) ...................... 218

Warning lamp ................................. 248

Warning lamp (function) ................... 57

Seat heating

Indicator lamp (Malfunction) ............ 98

Seats

Adjusting (electrically) ..................... 94

Adjusting the 4-way lumbar

support ............................................ 97

Adjusting the head restraint ............ 95

Cleaning the cover ......................... 292

Correct driver's seat position ........... 92

Important safety instructions ........... 93

Multicontour seat ............................ 97

Storing settings (memory

function) ........................................ 103

Switching seat heating on/off ......... 97

Switching the seat ventilation on/

off .................................................... 98

Seat ventilation

Indicator lamp (Malfunction) ............ 99

Securing hooks .................................. 260

Sensors (cleaning instructions) ....... 291

Service indicator

see Service interval display

Service interval display .................... 287

Displaying a service message (on-

board computer) ............................ 287

Service products

AdBlue® special additives .............. 360

Brake fluid ..................................... 362

Coolant (engine) ............................ 362

Engine oil ....................................... 361

Filling capacity ............................... 357

Fuel ................................................ 358

Important safety notes .................. 356

Notes ............................................. 356

Refrigerant (air-conditioning

system) .......................................... 362

Washer fluid ................................... 363

Settings

Factory (on-board computer) ......... 213

On-board computer ....................... 213

Shift ranges ....................................... 148

Side impact air bag ............................. 40

Side marker lamp (display

message) ............................................ 232

Side windows

Convenience closing feature ............ 86

Convenience opening feature .......... 86

Important safety information ........... 84

Opening/closing .............................. 85

Resetting ......................................... 87

Troubleshooting ............................... 87

Sliding sunroof

Important safety information ........... 88

Troubleshooting ............................... 89

see Tilt/sliding sunroof

SmartKey

Changing the battery ....................... 76

Changing the programming ............. 75

Checking the battery ....................... 76

Important safety notes .................... 72

Malfunction ...................................... 77

Snow chains ...................................... 165

Socket ................................................ 268

Dashboard ..................................... 268

Front-passenger footwell ............... 268

Luggage compartment ................... 269

Rear compartment ......................... 269

SOS

see mbrace

Spare wheel

Notes/data .................................... 352

Storage location ............................ 299

Stowing .......................................... 299

see Emergency spare wheel

Speedometer

Additional speedometer (on-

board computer) ............................ 208

Segments ...................................... 205

Setting the unit (on-board

computer) ...................................... 214

Page 17

Index

SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)

Display message ............................ 224

Introduction ..................................... 36

Warning lamp ................................. 251

Warning lamp (function) ................... 36

Standard display (on-board

computer) .......................................... 208

Starting the engine

Important safety instructions ......... 140

Station

see Radio

Status line (on-board computer)

Multifunction display ..................... 206

Selecting the display ...................... 214

Steering (display message) .............. 244

Steering wheel

Adjusting (electrically) ................... 100

Adjusting (manually) ........................ 99

Buttons (on-board computer) ......... 205

Cleaning ......................................... 292

Important safety instructions ........... 99

Memory function (storing

settings) ......................................... 100

Steering wheel heating .................. 100

Storing settings (memory

function) ........................................ 103

Steering wheel heating

Indicator lamp (Malfunction) .......... 100

Steering wheel paddle shifters ........ 148

Stowage compartments

Armrest (under) ............................. 257

Glove box ....................................... 257

Stowage space

Center console .............................. 257

Center console (rear) ..................... 258

Cup holders ................................... 265

Important safety information ......... 256

Submenu (on-board computer)

Convenience .................................. 218

Instrument cluster ......................... 214

Lighting .......................................... 215

Time/Date ..................................... 215

Vehicle ........................................... 217

Summer opening

see Convenience opening feature

Sun visor ............................................ 266

Supplemental Restraint System

see SRS

Surround lighting (on-board

computer) .......................................... 215

SUV

(Sport Utility Vehicle) ....................... 21

Switching off the alarm (ATA) ............ 69

Tachometer ........................................ 204

Tailgate

Display message ............................ 244

Emergency unlocking ....................... 84

Important safety guidelines ............. 80

Limiting the opening angle ............... 83

Taillight

see Tail lamps

Tank contents

Gauge .............................................. 28

Technical data ................................... 354

ML 350 .......................................... 364

ML 350 4MATIC ............................. 364

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC ............... 363

ML 550 4MATIC ............................. 364

ML 63 AMG ................................... 365

Tires/wheels ................................. 347

TELEAID

Call priority .................................... 274

Display message ............................ 224

Downloading destinations

(COMAND) ..................................... 274

Emergency call .............................. 271

Important safety notes .................. 270

Locating a stolen vehicle ............... 275

MB info call button ........................ 273

Roadside Assistance button .......... 272

Self-test ......................................... 271

System .......................................... 271

Vehicle remote unlocking .............. 275

Telephone

Accepting a call ............................. 220

Display message ............................ 245

Menu (on-board computer) ............ 220

Number from the phone book ........ 221

Redialing ........................................ 221

Rejecting/ending a call ................. 221

Telephone compartment .................. 257

Page 18

Index

Telescopic rod (EASY-PACK load-

securing kit) ....................................... 264

Temperature

Coolant (on-board computer) ......... 208

Displaying the outside

temperature ................................... 208

Engine oil (on-board computer) ...... 209

Outside temperature ...................... 204

Setting ........................................... 131

Theft deterrent locking system

Immobilizer ...................................... 69

Tilt/sliding sunroof

Opening/closing .............................. 89

Resetting ......................................... 89

Time (on-board computer) ................ 215

Timer (on-board computer) .............. 209

TIREFIT kit .......................................... 301

Tire pressure

Calling up (on-board computer) ..... 331

Checking manually ........................ 329

Display message ............................ 241

Maximum ....................................... 334

Notes ............................................. 327

Not reached (TIREFIT) .................... 303

Pressure loss warning .................... 329

Reached (TIREFIT) .......................... 304

Recommended ............................... 326

Tire pressure monitor

Warning lamp ................................. 253

Tire pressure monitoring system

Function/notes ............................. 331

Restarting ...................................... 333

Tires

Aspect ratio (definition) ................. 346

Average weight of the vehicle

occupants (definition) .................... 344

Bar (definition) ............................... 344

Characteristics .............................. 344

Checking ........................................ 325

Cleaning ......................................... 326

Definition of terms ......................... 344

Direction of rotation ...................... 338

Distribution of the vehicle

occupants (definition) .................... 347

DOT, Tire Identification Number

(TIN) ............................................... 343

DOT (Department of

Transportation) (definition) ............ 344

Flat tire .......................................... 300

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)

(definition) ..................................... 345

GTW (Gross Trailer Weight)

(definition) ..................................... 345

Guidelines to be observed ............. 325

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight)

(definition) ..................................... 345

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight

Rating) (definition) ......................... 345

Increased vehicle weight due to

optional equipment (definition) ...... 345

Kilopascal (kPa) (definition) ........... 345

Labeling (overview) ........................ 340

Load bearing index (definition) ...... 346

Load index ..................................... 343

Load index (definition) ................... 345

Maximum loaded vehicle weight

(definition) ..................................... 345

Maximum load on a tire

(definition) ..................................... 346

Maximum permissible tire

pressure (definition) ....................... 346

Maximum tire load ......................... 338

Maximum tire loading (definition) .. 346 Optional equipment weight

(definition) ..................................... 346

PSI (pounds per square inch)

(definition) ..................................... 346

Replacing ....................................... 340

Service life ..................................... 325

Sidewall (definition) ....................... 346

Speed index (definition) ................. 345

Storing ........................................... 326

Structure and characteristics

(definition) ..................................... 344

Temperature .................................. 339

TIN (Tire Identification Number)

(definition) ..................................... 346

Tire bead (definition) ...................... 346

Tire pressure (definition) ................ 346

Tire pressures (recommended) ...... 344

Tire quality classes ........................ 338

Tire size (data) ............................... 347

Tire size designation, load-bearing

capacity, speed index .................... 341

Tire tread ....................................... 325

Tire tread (definition) ..................... 346

Page 19

Index

Total load limit (definition) ............. 347

Traction ......................................... 339

Traction (definition) ....................... 346

Tread wear ..................................... 339

TWR (permissible trailer drawbar

noseweight) (definition) ................. 347

Uniform tire quality classification

standards (definition) ..................... 344

Unladen weight (definition) ............ 345

Wear indicator (definition) ............. 347

Wheel rim (definition) .................... 345

Tires and wheels (important safety

information) ....................................... 324

Top Tether ............................................ 62

Towing

Important safety guidelines ........... 317

Towing a trailer

Driving tips .................................... 198

Towing away

Installing the towing eye ................ 318

Removing the towing eye ............... 319

Trailer

Coupling up ................................... 198

Decoupling ..................................... 200

Display message ............................ 230

Power supply ................................. 201

Towing ........................................... 199

Trailer loads and drawbar

noseweights ...................................... 200

Trailer towing .................................... 147

Blind Spot Assist ............................ 191

ESP® ................................................ 68

PARKTRONIC ................................. 186

Transfer case ..................................... 151

Transmission position display ......... 145

Transmission positions .................... 146

Traveling uphill

Brow of hill ..................................... 171

Driving downhill ............................. 171

Maximum gradient-climbing

capability ....................................... 170

Trip computer (on-board

computer) .......................................... 219

Trip odometer

Calling up ....................................... 208

Resetting (on-board computer) ...... 220

Trunk

Automatic opening ..................... 82, 83

Turn signal (display message) ......... 230

Turn signals ....................................... 109

TWR (permissible trailer drawbar

noseweight) (definition) ................... 347

Type plate

see Vehicle identification plate

Unlocking

Emergency unlocking ....................... 80

From inside the vehicle (central

unlocking button) ............................. 79

Vanity mirror

Sun visor ........................................ 266

Vehicle

Data acquisition ............................... 23

Emergency release .......................... 80

Equipment ....................................... 19

Exterior view .................................... 26

Individual settings (on-board

computer) ...................................... 213

Loading .......................................... 334

Lowering ........................................ 310

Maintenance .................................... 20

Parking up ..................................... 159

Raising ........................................... 306

Reporting problems ......................... 22

Towing away .................................. 317

Tow-starting ................................... 317

Transporting .................................. 319

Vehicle data

see Technical data

Vehicle identification number

see VIN

Vehicle identification plate .............. 355

Vehicle tool kit .................................. 298

Video (DVD) ........................................ 212

Video DVD (on-board computer) ...... 212

VIN ...................................................... 355

Page 20

Index

Warning and indicator lamps

Overview .......................................... 29

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

indicator lamp (only Canada) ........... 48

PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

indicator lamp (only USA) ................ 42

Warranty ............................................ 354

Wheel bolt tightening torque ........... 310

Wheel chock ...................................... 306

Wheels

Changing/replacing ....................... 340

Changing a wheel .......................... 305

Checking ........................................ 325

Cleaning ......................................... 289

Guidelines to be observed ............. 325

Mounting a wheel .......................... 308

Removing a wheel .......................... 308

Tightening torque ........................... 310

Wheel size/tire size ....................... 347

Window curtain air bag ....................... 41

Windows

see Side windows

Windows (cleaning instructions) ..... 290

Windshield

Defrosting ...................................... 132

Infrared reflective .......................... 279

Windshield washer fluid (display

message) ............................................ 245

Windshield washer system

Adding washer fluid ....................... 286

Notes ............................................. 363

Windshield wipers

Important safety notes .................. 117

Replacing the wiper blades .... 118, 119

Switching on/off ........................... 117

Troubleshooting ............................. 120

Winter operation ............................... 166

Radiator cover ............................... 283

Winter tires ........................................ 165

Wiper blades

Cleaning ......................................... 290

Page 21

Introduction

Product information

We recommend using genuine MercedesBenz parts as well as conversion parts and accessories explicitly approved by us for your vehicle model.

We have tested these parts to determine their reliability, safety and special suitability for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Despite ongoing market research, Mercedes-Benz is unable to assess other parts. We cannot therefore be held responsible for them, even if in individual cases an official approval or authorization by governmental or other agencies should exist. The use of non-approved parts could affect your vehicle's operating safety. MercedesBenz therefore recommends that you use genuine Mercedes-Benz parts, conversion parts and accessories that have been approved for the type of vehicle. Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts, approved conversion parts and accessories are available from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. In addition, you will receive advice about permissible technical modifications, and the parts will be professionally installed.

Operator's Manual

Notes on the Operator's Manual

This Operator's Manual contains a great deal of helpful information. We urge you to read it carefully and familiarize yourself with the vehicle before driving.

For your own safety and longer service life of the vehicle, we urge you to follow the instructions and warnings contained in this Operator's Manual. Ignoring them could result in damage to the vehicle or personal injury to you or others. Vehicle damage caused by failure to follow instructions is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Vehicle equipment

This manual describes all the standard and optional equipment of your vehicle available at the time of publication of the Operator's Manual. Country-specific differences are possible. Note that your vehicle may not be equipped with all functions described. This also refers to safety-related systems and functions. The equipment in your vehicle may therefore differ from that shown in the descriptions and illustrations. All the systems found in your vehicle are listed in the original purchase agreement of your vehicle. Should you have any questions concerning equipment and operation, please consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

The Operating Instructions and the Maintenance Booklet are important documents and should be kept in the vehicle.

Service and vehicle operation

Service and literature

The Service and Warranty Information booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering your vehicle. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will replace and repair any factory-fitted parts based on the terms and conditions of the following warranties:

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

Emission System Warranty

Emission Performance Warranty

California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont Emission Control System Warranty

State Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon

Laws)

Valid only for vehicles with a gasoline engine.

Page 22

Introduction

Information for customers in California

Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price or lease price, if after a reasonable number of repair attempts Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC and/or its authorized repair or service facilities fail to fix one or more substantial defects or malfunctions in the vehicle that are covered by its express warranty. During the period of 18 months from original delivery of the vehicle or the accumulation of 18 000 miles (approximately 29 000 km) on the odometer of the vehicle, whichever occurs first, a reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed for a retail buyer or lessee if one or more of the following occurs:

(1) the same substantial defect or

malfunction results in a condition that is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle is driven, that defect or malfunction has been subject to repair two or more times, and you have directly notified Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC in writing of the need for its repair.

(2) the same substantial defect or

malfunction of a less serious nature than category (1) has been subject to repair four or more times and you have directly notified Mercedes-Benz in writing of the need for its repair.

(3) the vehicle is out of service by reason of

repair of the same or different substantial defects or malfunctions for a cumulative total of more than 30 calendar days.

Please send your written notice to: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC Customer Assistance Center One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350

Maintenance

The Service and Warranty Information Booklet describes all necessary maintenance work that should be performed at regular intervals.

Always have the Service and Warranty Information Booklet with you when you bring the vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. The service advisor will record each service in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet for you.

Roadside Assistance

The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program provides factory-trained technical help in the event of a breakdown. Calls to the toll-free Roadside Assistance number will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Representatives 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

1-800-FOR-MERCedes(1-800-367-6372) (USA)

1-800-387-0100 (Canada)

For additional information refer to the Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program brochure (in the USA) or the Roadside Assistance section of the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (in Canada) You will find both in your vehicle literature portfolio.

In accordance with standard program guidelines, Roadside Assistance is prepared to provide vehicle service up until a reasonable distance from the next paved roadway. We will make every effort to assist in a breakdown situation. However, the accessibility of your vehicle will be determined by our authorized Mercedes-Benz Service technician or the tow service provider on a case-by-case basis.

Additional charges may be applicable for a breakdown location determined not to be a reasonably accessible roadside location as determined by our authorized technician and tow service provider.

Page 23

Introduction

Change of address or ownership

In the event of a change of address, be sure to send in the "Change of Address Notice" found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or simply call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100. This will assist us in contacting you in a timely manner should the need arise.

If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all literature with the vehicle to make it available to the next operator.

If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in the "Notice of Purchase of Used Truck" found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or call the MercedesBenz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.

Vehicle operation outside the USA and Canada

If you plan to operate your vehicle in foreign countries, please be aware that:

Service facilities or replacement parts may not be readily available.

Unleaded gasoline for vehicles with catalytic converters may not be available. The use of leaded fuels can damage the catalytic converter.

Gasoline may have a considerably lower octane rating. Improper fuel can cause engine damage.

Sport Utility Vehicle

Warning!

This Sport Utility Vehicle is designed for both on-road and off-road use. It can go places and perform tasks for which conventional 2-wheel

drive passenger cars are not intended. This vehicle will handle and maneuver differently from conventional passenger cars in driving conditions which may occur on streets, highways and off-road use.

This vehicle has a higher ground clearance and a higher center of gravity than many passenger cars. As with other vehicles of this type, if you make sharp turns at excessive speeds or abrupt maneuvers, the vehicle may roll over or may go out of control and crash. Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. Failure to operate this vehicle safely may result in an accident, rollover of the vehicle, and severe or fatal injury.

Before you start to drive this vehicle, read the Operator’s Manual. Take time to become familiar with the driving characteristics of this vehicle. Be sure you are familiar with all vehicle controls. Learn how your vehicle handles on different road surfaces. Do not attempt sharp turns at excessive speeds or abrupt maneuvers or other unsafe driving actions that can cause loss of vehicle control. When driving off-road or working the vehicle hard, do not overload it. And, always wear your seat belts at all times. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.

Operating safety

Safety notes

Warning

Work improperly carried out on electronic components and associated software could cause them to cease functioning. Because the vehicle's electronic components are interconnected, any modifications made may produce an undesired effect on other systems. Electronic malfunctions could seriously impair the operating safety of your vehicle.

Page 24

Introduction

Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for repairs or modifications to electronic components.

Other improper work or modifications on the vehicle could also have a negative impact on the operating safety of the vehicle.

Some safety systems only function when the engine is running. You should therefore never turn off the engine while driving.

Warning

Heavy blows against the vehicle underbody or tires/wheels may cause serious damage and impair the operating safety of your vehicle. Such blows can be caused, for example, by running over an obstacle, road debris or a pothole. If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that damage to your vehicle has occurred:

turn on your hazard warning flashers.

slow down carefully.

drive with caution to an area which is a safe distance from the road.

Inspect the vehicle underbody and tires/ wheels for possible damage. If the vehicle appears unsafe, have it towed to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or other qualified maintenance or repair facility for further inspection or repairs.

Proper use of the vehicle

To ensure proper use of the vehicle, you must familiarize yourself with the following information and rules:

safety notes in this Operator's Manual

technical data in this Operator's Manual

traffic rules and regulations

laws and safety standards pertaining to motor vehicles

Warning!

Various warning labels are attached to your vehicle. These warning labels are intended to make you and others aware of various risks.

Do not remove any of these warning labels unless explicitly instructed to do so by information on the label itself.

Removing warning labels may cause you and others to be unaware of certain risks which may result in an accident and/or personal injury.

Warning!

HYBRID vehicles: It is imperative that you read the HYBRID Supplemental Operating Instructions included in your vehicle literature portfolio. You may otherwise not receive all necessary safety information and warning for the operation of your vehicle.

Problems with your vehicle

If you should experience a problem with your vehicle, particularly one that you believe may affect its safe operation, we urge you to contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the problem diagnosed and rectified. If the problem is not resolved to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem with the Mercedes-Benz Center again or, if necessary, contact us at one of the following addresses.

In the USA

Customer Assistance Center Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350

In Canada

Customer Relations Department Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. 98 Vanderhoof Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4G 4C9

Page 25

Introduction

Reporting malfunctions relevant to safety

For the USA only: The following text is reproduced as required

of all manufacturers according to Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966.

Reporting safety defects

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153http:// www.safercar.gov); go to: ; or write to: Administrator, NHTSA Headquarters, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, West Building, Washington, DC 20590.

You can also obtain additional information about vehicle safety from:

http://www.safercar.gov.

New or Used-Vehicle Warranty of Daimler AG.

Data stored in the vehicle

Information regarding electronic recording devices

(Including California Code Supplement

§ 9951) Please note that your vehicle is equipped with

devices that can record vehicle systems data. If your vehicle is equipped with mbrace3 data is transmitted in the event of an accident.

This information serves, for example, to test vehicle systems after an accident and to continually improve vehicle safety. Daimler AG can access this data and submit it:

for safety research or vehicle diagnosis purposes

with the consent of the vehicle owner or lessee

in response to an official request by law enforcement or other government agency

for use in arbitration of disputes that involve Daimler AG, its subsidiaries or its sales and service organizations

as otherwise required or permitted by law

Please observe the mbrace3 order agreement regarding further details on data that this system records and transmits.

Limited Warranty

Follow the instructions in this manual about the proper operation of your vehicle as well as about possible vehicle damage. Damage to your vehicle that arises from culpable contraventions against these instructions are not covered either by Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty or by the

The system is called TELEAID in Canada.

Page 26

Page 27

Exterior view ....................................... 26

Cockpit ................................................. 27

Instrument cluster .............................. 28

Multifunction steering wheel ............. 30

Center console .................................... 31

Overhead control panel ...................... 32

Door control panel .............................. 33

At a glance

Page 28

Exterior view

At a glance

Function Page

Tailgate 80 Vehicle tool kit 298

;

Rear window heating 133

Lights 111

Fuel filler flap 151

Exterior mirrors 101

Roof carrier 265 Sliding sunroof 88

Defrosting the windshield 132 Cleaning the windows

290

Function Page

Windshield wipers 117

Opening the hood 282 Engine oil 283 Coolant 285

Towing away 317

Tires and wheels 324 Flat tire 300

Page 29

Cockpit

At a glance

Function Page

Combination switch 109

;

Cruise control lever 172

Instrument cluster 28

Horn

Steering wheel paddle shifters 148

DIRECT SELECT lever 144

PARKTRONIC warning display 184

Overhead control panel 32

Operates the automatic climate control system

122

Function Page

Ignition lock 139 Start/Stop button 139

Adjusts the steering wheel manually 99

On-board diagnostic socket

Opens the hood 282

Parking brake 158

Releases the parking brake 158

Light switch 106

Adjusts the steering wheel electrically 99

Steering wheel heating 100

Page 30

Instrument cluster

Overview

At a glance

Function Page

Speedometer

;

Sets the instrument cluster lighting: dimmer

Reset button

Sets the instrument cluster lighting: brighter

Function Page

Tachometer 204

Fuel gauge

Multifunction display 206

Clock 215

Page 31

Warning and indicator lamps

Instrument cluster

At a glance

Function Page

Brakes (USA only) 247

;

ESP

Distance warning lamp

Turn signal 109

Diesel engine: preglow 141

SRS 251

Low-beam headlamps 107

Engine diagnostics (Canada only) 252

Engine diagnostics (USA only)

Function Page

High-beam headlamps 109

250

253

Reserve fuel 252

Seat belt 248

Brakes (Canada only) 247

Tire pressure monitor (USA only) 253

ABS 249

The lamp lights up briefly, but has no function.

252

On vehicles without DISTRONIC, the lamp lights up briefly but has no function.

Page 32

Multifunction steering wheel

At a glance

Function Page

Multifunction display 206

;

COMAND APS; see the separate operating instructions

Makes/accepts or rejects/ ends a call 220

Selects submenus in the Settings menu 213

Changes values Adjusts the volume Operates RACETIMER in

AMG vehicles 209

Switches on the Voice Control System; see the separate operating instructions

Function Page

Selects a menu: scrolls back and forth 207

Switches off the Voice Control System; see the separate operating instructions

Scrolls back and forth within a menu 207

Page 33

Center console

At a glance

Function Page

COMAND APS; see the separate operating instructions

;

Seat heating 97

Seat ventilation 98

PARKTRONIC 184

Level control 181

42 indicator lamp (USA only)

42 indicator lamp (Canada only)

Stowage compartment 256

ATA indicator lamp

Function Page

ESP

Selects ADS settings 184

DSR 192

Hazard warning lamps 109

Offroad program 193 AMG vehicles: selects the

drive program 147

Ashtray 267 Cigarette lighter 267

Cup holder 265

Stowage compartment 256

Page 34

Overhead control panel

At a glance

Function Page

p To switch the lefthand reading lamp on/off

;

| To switch the automatic interior lighting control on/off

u To switch the rear interior lighting on/off

c To switch the front interior lighting on/off

p To switch the righthand reading lamp on/off

Right-hand side interior lighting 111

2 To open/close the tilt/sliding sunroof

110

111

110

Function Page

G SOS button (mbrace system)

Rear-view mirror 101

Reading lamps 110

Buttons for the garage door opener 276

Microphone for mbrace (emergency call system), telephone and Voice Control System

Left-hand side interior

lighting 111

271

Observe the additional operating instructions.

Page 35

Door control panel

Function Page

Opens the door 79

;

%& Locks/unlocks the vehicle

7 Adjusts the exterior mirrors 101

Zª\ Selects the exterior mirror, electrically folds the exterior mirrors in/out

W Opens/closes the side windows

n Activates/ deactivates the override feature for the side windows in the rear compartment

q Opens/closes the tailgate

101

Door control panel

At a glance

Page 36

Page 37

Vehicle equipment .............................. 36

Occupant safety .................................. 36

Children in the vehicle ........................ 58

Panic alarm .......................................... 64

Driving safety systems ....................... 65

Anti-theft systems .............................. 69

Safety

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Occupant safety

Vehicle equipment

This manual describes all the standard and optional equipment of your vehicle which was available at the time of purchase. Country-specific differences are possible. Bear in mind that your vehicle may not feature all functions described

Safety

here. This also refers to safety-related systems and functions.

Occupant safety

Overview of occupant safety

In this section you will learn the most important facts about the restraint system components of the vehicle.

The restraint systems are:

Seat belts

Child restraint systems

"LATCH" type child seat mountings

Additional protection is provided by:

SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)

NECK-PRO head restraints

PRE-SAFE

Air bag system components with:

PASSENGER air bag OFF indicator lamp USA only: front-passenger seat with

Occupant Classification System (OCS)

Canada only: front-passenger seat with BabySmart™ air bag deactivation system

The protective functions of the systems work in conjunction with each other. The systems are, however, autonomous.

Warning!

Modifications to or work improperly conducted on restraint system components or their wiring, as well as tampering with interconnected electronic systems, can lead to the restraint systems no longer functioning as intended.

Air bags or Emergency Tensioning Devices/ belt buckle tensioners, for example, could deploy inadvertently or fail to deploy. Therefore, never modify the restraint systems. Do not tamper with electronic components or their software.

More information on the subject of children in the vehicle and child restraint systems can be found under the "Children in the vehicle" chapter (Y page 58).

SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)

Introduction

SRS reduces the risk of occupants coming into contact with the vehicle's interior in the event of an accident. It can also reduce the effect of the forces to which occupants are subjected during an accident.

SRS consists of:

+ SRS warning lamp

air bags

air bag control unit (with crash sensors)

ETDs/belt buckle tensioners

belt force limiters

SRS warning lamps

SRS functions are checked regularly when you switch on the ignition and when the engine is running. Therefore, malfunctions can be detected in good time.

The + SRS warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up when the ignition is switched on. It goes out no later than a few seconds after the engine is started.

The SRS components are in operational readiness when the + indicator lamp goes out while the engine is running.

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Occupant safety

Warning

The SRS self-check has detected a malfunction if the + SRS warning lamp:

does not illuminate

goes out approximately 4 seconds after the engine is started

illuminates after the engine is started or illuminates during the journey

For your safety, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you have the system checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Otherwise the SRS may not be activated when it is needed in an accident, which could result in serious or fatal injury. The SRS might also deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could also result in injury.

In addition, improper work on the SRS creates a risk of rendering the SRS inoperative or causing unintended air bag deployment. Work on the SRS must therefore only be performed by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center if it is necessary to modify an air bag system to accommodate a person with disabilities. USA only: Call our Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) for details.

Safety guidelines for seat belts, Emergency Tensioning Devices (ETDs) and air bags

Warning

Damaged seat belts or seat belts that have been subjected to stress in an accident must be replaced. Their anchoring points must also be checked. Only use seat belts installed or supplied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Air bags and pyrotechnic Emergency Tensioning Devices (ETDs) contain perchlorate material, which may require special handling and regard for the

environment. Check your national disposal guidelines. California residents, see

www.dtsc.ca.gov/HazardousWaste/ Perchlorate/index.cfm.

Air bags and ETDs are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. An air bag or ETD that has deployed must be replaced. PRESAFE® has electrically operated reversible belt tensioners in addition to the pyrotechnic ETDs.

Do not pass seat belts over sharp edges. They could tear.

Do not make any modification that could change the effectiveness of the seat belts.

Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be able to provide adequate protection.

No modifications of any kind may be made to any components or wiring of the SRS.

Do not change or remove any component or part of the SRS.

Do not install additional trim material, seat covers, badges, etc. to the:

padded steering wheel boss

front-passenger air bag cover

outer side of front seat bolsters

outer side of the seat bolsters of the rear bench seat backrest

roof lining trim

Do not install additional electrical/ electronic equipment on or near SRS components and wiring.

Keep area between air bags and occupants free of objects (e.g. packages, purses, umbrellas, etc.).

Do not hang items such as coat hangers from the coat hooks or handles over the door. These items may be thrown around in the vehicle and cause head and other injuries when the window curtain air bag is deployed.

Air bag system components will be hot after an air bag has inflated. Do not touch them.

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Occupant safety

Never place your feet on the instrument panel, dashboard, or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

Improper repair work on the SRS creates a risk of rendering the SRS inoperative or causing unintended air bag deployment. Work on the SRS must therefore only be

Safety

performed by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

For your protection and the protection of others, when scrapping the air bag unit or ETD, our safety instructions must be followed. These instructions are available from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Given the considerable deployment speed, required inflation volume, and the material of the air bags, there is the possibility of abrasions or other, potentially more serious injuries resulting from air bag deployment.

If you sell your vehicle, Mercedes-Benz strongly recommends that you inform the subsequent owner that the vehicle is equipped with SRS. Also refer them to the applicable section in the Operator's Manual.

Air bags

Important safety guidelines

Warning

Air bags are designed to reduce the incidence of injuries and fatalities in certain situations:

frontal impacts (driver's and frontpassenger front air bags)

side impacts (side impact air bags and window curtain air bags)

rollover (window curtain air bags)

However, no system available today can completely eliminate injuries and fatalities.

When the air bags are deployed, a small amount of powder is released. The powder

generally does not constitute a health hazard and does not indicate that there is a fire in the vehicle. In order to prevent potential breathing difficulties, you should leave the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have any breathing difficulty but cannot get out of the vehicle after the airbag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

Warning

To reduce the risk of injuries during front air bag inflation, the driver and front-passenger must always be seated correctly and have their seat belts fastened accordingly.

For maximum protection in the event of a collision, you must always be in the normal seat position with your back against the backrest. Fasten your seat belt and make sure it is properly positioned on your body.

Since the air bag inflates with considerable speed and force, a proper seating position and correct positioning of the hands on the steering wheel will help to keep you at a safe distance from the air bag. Occupants who are not wearing their seat belt, are not seated properly or are too close to the air bag can be seriously injured or killed by an air bag as it inflates with great force instantaneously:

Sit with the seat belt properly fastened in a position that is as upright as possible with your back against the seat backrest.

Move the driver's seat as far back as possible, still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls. The distance from the center of the driver's chest to the center of the air bag cover on the steering wheel must be at least 10 inches (25 cm) or more. You should be able to accomplish this by adjusting the seat and steering wheel. If you have any difficulties, please contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Do not lean your head or chest close to the steering wheel or dashboard.

Keep hands on the outside of the steering wheel rim. Placing hands and arms inside

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Occupant safety

the rim can increase the risk and potential severity of hand/arm injury when the driver front air bag inflates.

Adjust the front-passenger seat as far back as possible from the dashboard when the seat is occupied.

Occupants, especially children, should never place their bodies or lean their heads in the area of the door where the side impact air bag inflates. This could result in serious injuries or death should the side impact air bags be deployed. Always sit as upright as possible, wear the seat belt properly and use an appropriately sized child restraint, infant restraint or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child.

Canada only: Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in an authorized Mercedes-Benz child restraint that is compatible with the BabySmart™ child restraint system. The BabySmart™ air bag deactivation system installed in the vehicle will deactivate the front-passenger front air bag when it is installed properly. Otherwise, the child could be struck by the air bag when it inflates in a crash. This could lead to serious or fatal injury.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in severe injuries to you or other occupants.

If you sell your vehicle, it is important that you make the buyer aware of this safety information. Be sure to give the buyer this Operator's Manual.

Warning

Accident research shows that the safest place for children in an automobile is in a rear seat.

A side impact air bag related injury may occur if occupants, especially children, are not properly seated or restrained when next to a side impact air bag which needs to deploy rapidly in a side impact in order to do its job.

To help avoid the possibility of injury, please follow these guidelines:

(1) Always sit as upright as possible

and use the seat belts properly. Make sure that children 12 years old and under use an appropriately sized child restraint, infant restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child.

(2) Always wear seat belts properly.

The air bags are only deployed if the airbag control unit detects the need for deployment. Only in the event of such a situation will they provide their supplemental protection.

The driver and passenger should always wear their seat belts. Otherwise, it is not possible for the air bags to provide their supplemental protection.

In the event of other types of impacts and impacts below air bag deployment thresholds, air bags will not deploy. The driver and passengers will then be protected to the extent possible by a properly fastened seat belt. A properly fastened seat belt is also needed to provide the best possible protection in a rollover.

Air bags offer supplemental protection but are not a substitute for seat belts. All vehicle occupants must fasten their seat belts regardless of whether your vehicle is equipped with airbags or not.

It is important for your safety and that of your passenger to have deployed air bags replaced and to have any malfunctioning air bags repaired. This will help to make sure the air bags continue to perform their protective function for the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash.

Front air bags

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 38).

Safety

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Occupant safety

The front air bags increase protection for the driver's and front-passenger's head and chest.

Safety

Driver's front air bag : deploys in front of the steering wheel; front-passenger front air bag ; deploys in front of and above the glove box. They are deployed:

in the event of certain frontal impacts

if the system determines that air bag deployment can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt

if the seat belt is fastened

independently of other air bags in the vehicle

If the vehicle overturns, the front air bags are generally not deployed unless the system detects high vehicle deceleration in a longitudinal direction.

Your vehicle has adaptive, dual-stage front air bags. In the event of a collision, the air bag control unit evaluates the vehicle deceleration. When the first deployment threshold is reached, the front air bag is filled with enough gas to reduce the risk of injuries. The front air bag is fully deployed if a second deployment threshold is exceeded within a few milliseconds.

Vehicles with OCS (USA only): frontpassenger front air bag deployment is also influenced by the passenger's weight category as identified by the Occupant Classification System (OCS) (Y page 42).

Vehicles with OCS (USA only): the lighter the passenger side occupant, the higher the vehicle deceleration rate required for second

stage inflation of the front-passenger front air bag. In the second stage, the front air bags are inflated with the maximum amount of propellant gas available.

The air bags will not deploy in impacts which do not exceed the system's preset deployment thresholds. You will then be protected by the fastened seat belts.

Vehicles with BabySmart™ (Canada only): do not place objects heavier than 20 lb (9 kg) on the front-passenger seat, as this could be interpreted as the seat being occupied. In the event of an accident, the restraint systems on the front-passenger side are deployed. Have restraint systems replaced that have been deployed.

The front-passenger front airbag will only deploy if:

the system, based on the OCS weight sensor readings, detects that the frontpassenger seat is occupied (USA only).

the 42 indicator lamp in the center console is not lit, USA: (Y page 42), Canada: (Y page 48).

the impact exceeds a preset deployment threshold.

Side impact air bags

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 38).

Warning!

The pressure sensors for side impact air bag control are located in the doors. Do not modify any components of the doors or door trim panels including, for example, the addition of door speakers.

Improper repair work on the doors or the modification or addition of components to the doors create a risk of rendering the side impact air bags inoperative or causing unintended air bag deployment. Work on the doors must therefore only be performed by

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Occupant safety

qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Warning!

Only use seat covers which have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle model. Using other seat covers may interfere with or prevent the deployment of the side impact air bags. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability.

When deployed, the side impact air bags offer additional protection for the thorax of the vehicle occupants on the side of the vehicle on which the impact occurs. However, they do not protect the:

head

neck

arms

system detects high vehicle deceleration or acceleration in a lateral direction and determines that they can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt.

The side impact air bags are not deployed in side impacts which do not exceed the system's deployment threshold.

Vehicles with OCS (USA only): if the OCS detects that the front-passenger seat is not occupied and the front passenger seat belt is not fastened (the belt tongue is not engaged in the seat belt buckle), the side impact air bag on the front-passenger side will not deploy. The side impact air bag on the frontpassenger side will deploy if the front passenger seat belt is fastened, regardless of whether the front-passenger seat is occupied or not.

Safety

Front side impact air bags : and rear side impact air bags ; deploy next to the outer seat cushions.

The side impact air bags are deployed:

on the side on which an impact occurs

at the start of an accident with a high rate of lateral vehicle deceleration or acceleration, e.g. in a side impact

independently of seat belt use

independently of the front air bags

independently of the ETDs/belt buckle tensioners

The side impact air bags are generally not deployed if the vehicle overturns, unless the

Window curtain air bags

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 38).

The window curtain air bags enhance the level of protection for the head (but not chest or arms) of the vehicle occupants on the side of the vehicle on which the impact occurs.

The window curtain air bags are integrated into the side of the roof frame and deploy in the area extending from the front door (Apillar) to the rear door (C-pillar).

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Occupant safety

Safety

Window curtain air bags : are deployed:

on the side on which an impact occurs

at the start of an accident with a high rate of lateral vehicle deceleration or acceleration, e.g. in a side impact

regardless of whether the front-passenger seat is occupied

if the vehicle overturns and the system determines that window curtain air bag deployment can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt

independently of the front air bags

The window curtain air bags will not deploy in impacts which do not exceed the system's preset thresholds. You will then be protected by the fastened seat belts.

Occupant classification system (OCS)

Operating principles of the Occupant Classification System

The OCS is standard equipment in the USA. OCS categorizes the occupant on the front-

passenger seat by means of a weight sensor. The front-passenger front air bag is automatically deactivated for certain weight categories. The 42 indicator lamp shows you the current status. If the 42 indicator lamp lights up, the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated.

The system does not disable:

the side impact air bag

the window curtain air bag

the Emergency Tensioning Device/belt buckle tensioner (ETD)

To be classified correctly, the front passenger must sit:

with the seat belt properly fastened

in a position that is as upright as possible with the back against the seat backrest

with their feet on the floor

The OCS weight sensor is distorted if the occupant's weight is transferred to another object in the vehicle, e.g. by leaning on the armrest.

In addition, the occupant weight may appear to increase or decrease due to the following:

objects hanging on the seat

objects lodged underneath the seat

objects lodged between the seat and the center console

objects lodged between the seat and the door

other passengers exerting weight on the seat

objects applying pressure to the back of the seat

Make sure that the seat always has clearance in all directions.

If the front-passenger seat, the seat cover or the seat cushion are damaged, have the necessary repair work carried out at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use seat accessories which have been approved by Mercedes-Benz.

Both the driver and the front passenger should observe the 42 indicator lamp to determine whether or not the front passenger is positioned correctly.

Page 45

Occupant safety

Warning!

If the 4 2 indicator lamp illuminates when an adult or someone larger than a small individual is in the front passenger seat, have the front passenger reposition himself or herself in the seat until the 4 2 indicator lamp goes out, or check whether objects are caught under or around the seat.

In the event of a collision, the air bag control unit will not allow front passenger front air bag deployment when the OCS has classified the front passenger seat occupant as weighting as much as or less than a typical 12-monthold child in a standard child restraint or if the front passenger seat is classified as being empty.

When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as being up to or less than the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint, the 4 2 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and remain illuminated, indicating that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated.

When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat is classified as being empty, the 4 2 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and remain illuminated, indicating that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated.

When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as being heavier than the weight of a typical 12-month-old child seated in a standard child restraint or as being a small individual (such as a young teenager or a small adult), the 4 2 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately 6 seconds when the engine is started and then, depending on occupant weight sensor readings from the seat, remain illuminated or go out. With the 4 2 indicator lamp illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. With the 4 2 indicator lamp out, the front passenger front air bag is activated.

When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as an adult or someone larger than a small individual, the 4 2 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately 6 seconds when the engine is started and then goes out, indicating that the front passenger front air bag is activated.

If the 4 2 indicator lamp is illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is deactivated and will not be deployed.

If the 4 2 indicator lamp is not illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is activated and will be deployed

in the event of certain frontal impacts

if impact exceeds a preset deployment threshold

independently of the side impact air bags

If the front passenger front air bag is deployed, the rate of inflation will be influenced by

the rate of relevant vehicle deceleration as assessed by the air bag control unit

the front passenger’s weight category as identified by the OCS

For further information, see "Air bag display messages" (Y page 224).

Warning

Accident statistics show that children secured in the rear seats are safer than children secured in the front-passenger seat. For this reason, we strongly advise that you always secure children in the rear seats. Regardless of the seat position, children under 12 years must be secured correctly in a suitable infant or child restraint system or booster seat suitable for the size and weight of the child.

The infant or child restraint system must be correctly secured using the vehicle's seat belt, the seat belt and Top Tether belt or the lower anchorages and the Top Tether belt in

Safety

Page 46

Occupant safety

complete accordance with the child seat manufacturer's instructions.

Occupants, in particular children, must sit as upright as possible, fasten the seat belt correctly and use a suitable infant restraint system, child restraint system or booster seat suitable for the size and weight of the child.

Children can be killed or seriously injured by

Safety

an inflating air bag. Observe the following important information if it is absolutely necessary to carry a child on the frontpassenger seat:

your vehicle is equipped with air bag technology designed to deactivate the passenger front air bag in your vehicle when the system senses the weight of a typical 12-month-old child or less along with the weight of a standard appropriate child restraint on the passenger seat.

a child in a rear-facing child restraint on the passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the passenger front air bag inflates in a collision which could occur under some circumstances, even with the air bag technology installed in your vehicle. The only way to completely rule out this risk is by making sure you never place a child in a rearward-facing child restraint system on the front-passenger seat. For this reason, we strongly advise that you always carry children in a rearward-facing child restraint system on a rear seat.

if it is absolutely necessary to install a rearward-facing child restraint system on the front-passenger seat, make sure the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated, indicating that the frontpassenger front air bag is disabled. If the 42 indicator lamp does not light up or goes out when the child restraint system is installed, check the anchorages of the restraint system. Check the 42 indicator lamp regularly while driving to ensure that the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated. If the 42 indicator

lamp lights up or remains out, you may only carry a child on the front-passenger seat once the system has been repaired.

A child in a rear-facing child restraint on the passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the passenger front air bag inflates.

when securing a child in a child restraint system on the front-passenger seat, you must:

move the front-passenger seat as far back as possible

use a child restraint system that is suitable for the age, size and weight of the child

observe the manufacturer's installation instructions in order to install and secure the child restraint system correctly.

for children larger than the typical 12month-old child, the passenger front air bag is activated.

Deployment of the driver front air bag does not mean that the front-passenger front air bag also should have deployed. The OCS may have determined:

that the seat was empty or occupied by a person with a weight up to or less than that of a typical 12 month-old child seated in a standard child restraint

that the seat was occupied by a small person (e.g. a young teenager or a small adult) or a child that weighs more than a typical 12 month old child in a child restraint system

These are examples of when OCS disables the front-passenger front air bag. This occurs even though the impact fulfills the criteria for deployment of the driver's front air bag.

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Occupant safety

while seated, an occupant should not position him/herself in such a way as to cause the occupant's weight to be lifted from the seat bottom as this may result in the OCS being unable to correctly approximate the occupant's weight category.

read and observe all warnings in this chapter.

Safety

If the key has been removed from the ignition lock or is in position 0, indicator lamp 42: does not light up.

Warning

If the red + SRS warning lamp in the instrument cluster and the 42 indicator lamp light up simultaneously, OCS is malfunctioning. The front-passenger front air bag is disabled in this case. Have the system checked as soon as possible by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Only have the seat repaired or replaced at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

In order to ensure proper operation of the air bag system and OCS:

do not place any objects with a total weight of more than 4.4 lb(2 kg) in the parcel net on the back of the front-passenger seat. OCS may otherwise be unable to correctly assess the occupant's weight category.

do not place any objects under or near the front-passenger seat.

do not hang or fasten any objects on the seats.

do not store any objects, such as books, between the front-passenger seat and the center console or the front-passenger door.

do not slide the front-passenger seat backwards against any hard objects.

sit with the seat belt fastened correctly and in a position that is as upright as possible with your back against the backrest.

System self-test

The

indicator lamp

illuminates when you:

turn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the ignition lock

press the KEYLESS-GO Start-Stop button once or twice

If an adult occupant is properly sitting on the passenger seat and the OCS classifies the occupant as an adult, the 42 indicator lamp illuminates and goes out again after approximately 6 seconds.

If the seat is not occupied and the OCS classifies the front-passenger seat as being unoccupied, the 42 indicator lamp will illuminate and not go out.

Warning!

If the 4 2 indicator lamp does not illuminate, the system is not functioning. You must contact an authorized MercedesBenz Center before seating any child on the front passenger seat.

For more information, see "Problems with the occupant classification system" (Y page 47).

Warning

Never place anything between seat cushion and child seat (e.g. a pillow), since it reduces the effectiveness of the OCS. The underside and rear side child restraint system must be placed entirely on the seat cushion and the backrest of the front-passenger seat backrest.

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Occupant safety

If necessary, adjust the tilt of the passenger seat backrest.

An incorrectly mounted child seat could cause injuries to the child in case of an accident, instead of increasing protection for the child.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation of child restraint systems.

Safety

Page 49

Occupant safety

Problems with the occupant classification system

Problem Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

USA only: The

indicator lamp illuminates and remains illuminated when the weight of a

The OCS is malfunctioning.

Have the OCS checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Read and observe the additional display messages in the multifunction display (Y page 224).

typical adult or an individual that is the size of a typical adult has been detected on the passenger seat; the system then determines the occupant cannot be a child.

Warning

If the 42 indicator lamp illuminates and remains illuminated when the weight of a typical adult or someone larger than a small individual has been detected on the passenger seat, the system then determines the occupant cannot be a child. Do not allow any occupant to use the passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Problem Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

The 42 indicator lamp does not illuminate and/or does not remain illuminated when the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint or less/ unoccupied child restraint has been detected on the frontpassenger seat.

The OCS is malfunctioning.

Make sure there is nothing between the seat cushion and the child seat.

Check the installation of the child restraint system.

Make sure there are no objects applying additional weight onto the seat.

Make sure there are no objects applying additional weight onto the seat. Head restraints that press against the roof or books that are behind or trapped between the seat, for example, apply force to the seat. OCS senses such forces as additional weight.

If the 42 indicator lamp does not illuminate, have the OCS checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not transport a child on the frontpassenger seat until the OCS has been repaired.

Read and observe the additional display messages in the multifunction display (Y page 224).

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Occupant safety

Warning

If the 42 indicator lamp does not illuminate or remains out with the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint or less, or is unoccupied, on the frontpassenger seat, do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

BabySmart™ air bag deactivation

Safety

system

How the air bag deactivation system functions

The BabySmart™ system is standard equipment in Canada.

Warning

Accident statistics show that children secured in the rear seats are safer than children secured in the front-passenger seat. For this reason, Mercedes-Benz strongly advises that you always secure children in the rear seats. Regardless of the seat position, children under 12 years must be secured correctly in a suitable infant or child restraint system or booster seat suitable for the size and weight of the child.

Secure the child restraint system with:

the seat belt of the vehicle

the seat belt and a Top Tether belt

the ISOFIX child seat securing system and a Top Tether belt.

The child restraint system must be installed and secured correctly, observing the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Children can be killed or seriously injured by an inflating air bag. Observe the following important information if it is necessary to carry a child on the front-passenger seat:

Canada only: children under 12 years may only sit in the front-passenger seat if they

are seated in a child restraint system which is compatible with BabySmart™ and approved by Mercedes-Benz. When the child restraint system is installed correctly, the front-passenger front air bag is disabled in conjunction with the BabySmart™ system installed in the vehicle. If the frontpassenger front air bag is deployed in the event of a collision, it could hit the child. This could lead to serious or fatal injuries.

if it is necessary to install a BabySmart™compatible rearward-facing child restraint system on the front-passenger seat, make sure the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated. This indicates that the frontpassenger front air bag is disabled. If the 42 indicator lamp does not light up or goes out when the child restraint system is installed, check the anchorages of the restraint system. Check the 42 indicator lamp regularly while driving to ensure that the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated. If the 42 indicator lamp goes out or remains out, you may only

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Occupant safety

carry a child on the front-passenger seat once the system has been repaired.

A child in a rear-facing child restraint on the passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the passenger front air bag inflates.

when securing a child in a front-facing child restraint system on the front-passenger seat, you must:

move the front-passenger seat as far back as possible

use a child restraint system that is suitable for the age, size and weight of the child

observe the manufacturer's installation instructions in order to install and secure the child restraint system correctly.

Warning

When using a BabySmart™-compatible child restraint system on the front-passenger seat, the front-passenger front air bag is only disabled if the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated.

Always check the 42 indicator lamp if you are using a BabySmart™compatible child restraint system on the front-passenger seat. If the 42 indicator lamp does not light up or goes out when the child restraint system is installed, check the anchorages of the restraint system. If the 42 indicator lamp remains out, do not use the BabySmart™ child restraint system to carry a child on the frontpassenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Warning

The BabySmart™ air bag disabling system ONLY works with specially adapted child restraint systems. It does not work with child restraint systems that are not compatible with BabySmart™.

Never place anything between the seat cushion and the child restraint system (e.g. a cushion), as this reduces the effectiveness of

the BabySmart™ air bag deactivation system. The underside of the child restraint system must lie against the seat cushion of the frontpassenger seat. In the event of an accident, an incorrectly installed child restraint system could injure the child instead of offering protection.

Observe the manufacturer's instructions when installing special child restraint systems.

Special child restraint systems which are compatible with BabySmart™ are necessary for deactivating the front-passenger front air bag. When the special child restraint system which is compatible with BabySmart™ is installed correctly and is recognized by the sensor system in the front-passenger seat, the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated. In this case, 42 indicator lamp: illuminates. If you have any questions regarding the special child restraint systems which are compatible with BabySmart™, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If the key has been removed from the ignition lock or is in position 0, indicator lamp 42: does not light up.

The system does not disable:

the side impact air bag

the window curtain air bag

the Emergency Tensioning Device/belt buckle tensioner (ETD)

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System self-test

The 42 indicator lamp illuminates when you:

turn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the ignition lock

on vehicles with KEYLESS-GO, press the Start-Stop button once or twice.

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The 42 indicator lamp goes out again after approximately six seconds.

If the 42 indicator lamp does not illuminate or is lit continuously, the system is malfunctioning. Before transporting a child on the front-passenger seat, have the BabySmart™ system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

For more information, see "Problems with the air bag deactivation system" section (Y page 51)

Warning!

Do not place powered-on laptops, mobile phones, electronic tags such as those used in ski passes and like electronic devices on the front passenger seat. Signals from such devices may interfere with the BabySmart™ air bag deactivation system. Such signal interference may cause the 4 2 indicator lamp not to come on during self-test. The SRS indicator lamp + and/or the 4 2 indicator lamp could be continuously lit, indicating that the system is not functioning. The front passenger front air bag could deploy inadvertently or fail to deploy in an accident.

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Occupant safety

Problems with the air bag deactivation system

Problem Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

Canada only: The

indicator lamp is

A special BabySmart™ compatible child restraint system is installed on the front-passenger seat.

The front-passenger front air bag is thus deactivated.

illuminated constantly.

A BabySmart™-compatible child restraint system is not installed on the front-passenger seat. The BabySmart™ system is malfunctioning.

Have the BabySmart™ system checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Warning

Problem Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

Canada only: The

indicator lamp does not illuminate or does not remain illuminated with a BabySmart™ compatible child restraint system properly installed on the front-passenger

The BabySmart™ system is malfunctioning.

Make sure there is nothing between the seat cushion and the child restraint system.

Check the installation of the child restraint system.

If the 42 indicator lamp does not illuminate, have the BabySmart™ system checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat until the BabySmart™ system has been repaired.

seat.

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PRE-SAFE® system

Warning!

The PRE-SAFE® system is intended to reduce the effects of an accident on vehicle occupants who are wearing their seat belt properly. Despite your vehicle being equipped with the PRE-SAFE® system, the possibility of personal injuries occurring as a result of an accident cannot be eliminated. Therefore, always drive carefully and adjust your driving

to the prevailing road, weather, and traffic conditions.

PRE-SAFE® takes pre-emptive measures to protect you in certain hazardous situations.

PRE-SAFE® intervenes:

in emergency braking situations, if the BAS Brake Assist System intervenes

in critical driving situations, e.g. if the vehicle understeers or oversteers severely when exceeding physical limits or in case

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Occupant safety

of having to swerve to avoid an obstacle at a speed above 85 mph (140 km/h).

PRE-SAFE® takes the following measures depending on the hazardous situation detected:

the front seat belts are pre-tensioned.

on vehicles with memory functions: the

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front-passenger seat is adjusted if it is in an unfavorable position under accident conditions.

if the vehicle skids, the side windows are closed so that only a small gap remains.

on vehicles with sliding sunroof: if the vehicle skids, the sliding sunroof closes so that only a small gap remains.

If the hazardous situation passes without resulting in an accident, PRE-SAFE® slackens the belt pretensioning. All settings made by PRE-SAFE® can then be reversed.

If the seat belts are not released:

Move the backrest or the seat back slightly until the belt pretensioning is reduced. The locking mechanism releases.

Warning

Make sure that nobody can become trapped as you adjust the seat.

Make sure that there are no objects in the footwell or behind the seats when resetting the seats. There is a risk that the seats and/or the objects could be damaged.

More information about belt adjustment, a convenience function integrated into PRESAFE®, can be found in the "Belt adjustment" section (Y page 56).

NECK-PRO head restraints

The NECK-PRO head restraints increase protection to the driver's and frontpassenger's head and neck. To this end, the head restraints on the driver's and frontpassenger seats are moved forwards and upwards in the event of a rear-end collision of

a certain severity. This provides better head support.

Warning

Do not secure any objects (e.g. coat hangers) on the NECK-PRO head restraints. Otherwise, the NECK-PRO head restraints may not function properly, or in the event of a rear-end collision may not be able offer the level of protection they are designed to provide.

Warning

Only use seat covers/head restraint covers that have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz for your model.

Using seat covers and head restraint covers other than those recommended can prevent/ impair the triggering of NECK-PRO head restraints and/or the deployment of side impact air bags in the front.

Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability.

If the NECK-PRO head restraints have been triggered in an accident, you must reset the NECK-PRO head restraints on the driver’s and front-passenger seat (Y page 53). Otherwise, the additional protection will not be available in the event of another rear-end collision. You can recognize when NECK-PRO head restraints have been triggered by the fact that they have moved forwards and can no longer be adjusted.

Warning!

For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints.

Adjust the head restraint so that it is as close to the head as possible and the center of the head restraint supports the back of the head at eye level. This will reduce the potential for injury to the head and neck in the event of an accident or similar situation.

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Occupant safety

Resetting triggered NECK-PRO head restraints

Warning!

For reasons of safety, have the NECK-PRO head restraints checked after a rear end collision at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Warning

If you press the NECK-PRO head restraint cushion backwards, make sure that your fingers are not trapped between the cushion and the cover. Failure to observe could result in injuries.

Resetting the NECK-PRO head restraints requires a lot of strength. If you have difficulty resetting the NECK-PRO head restraints, have this work carried out at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Tilt the top of the NECK-PRO head restraint cushion forwards in the direction of arrow :.

Push the NECK-PRO head restraint cushion down as far as it will go in the direction of arrow ;.

Firmly push the NECK-PRO head restraint cushion backwards in the direction of arrow = until it engages.

Repeat this procedure for the second NECK-PRO head restraint.

Seat belts

Important safety guidelines

The use of infant or child restraint systems is required by law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces.

Even if this is not the case, all vehicle occupants should have their seat belts fastened when the vehicle is in motion.

See "Children in the vehicle" (Y page 58) for further information on infants and children traveling in the vehicle as well as on child restraint systems.

Warning!

Always fasten your seat belt before driving off. Always make sure all of your passengers are properly restrained. You and your passengers should always wear seat belts.

Failure to wear and properly fasten and position your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident.

If you are ever in an accident, your injuries can be considerably more severe without your seat belt properly buckled. Without your seat belt buckled, you are much more likely to hit the interior of the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed.

In the same crash, the possibility of injury or death is lessened if you are properly wearing your seat belt. The air bags can only protect as intended if the occupants are properly wearing their seat belts.

Warning

Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat backrest in an excessively reclined position as this can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the seat 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 a position that is as upright as

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Occupant safety

possible and the seat belt is properly positioned on the body.

Warning

Never let more people ride in the vehicle than there are seat belts available. Make sure everyone riding in the vehicle is correctly restrained with a separate seat belt. Never

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use a seat belt for more than one person at a time.

Warning

Damaged seat belts or seat belts that have been subjected to stress in an accident must be replaced and their anchoring points must also be checked.

Only use seat belts which have been approved by Mercedes-Benz.

Do not make any modifications to the seat belts. This can lead to unintended activation of the ETDs or to their failure to activate when necessary.

Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be able to provide adequate protection.

Have all work carried out only by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Correct use of the seat belt

Warning

USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY

Seat belts can only protect when used properly. Never wear seat belts in any other way than as described in this section, as that could result in serious injuries in case of an accident.

Each occupant should wear their seat belt at all times, because seat belts help reduce the likelihood of and potential severity of injuries in accidents, including rollovers. The integrated restraint system includes SRS (driver's front air bag, front-passenger front air bag, side impact air bags, window

curtain air bags for door windows), Emergency Tensioning Devices, seat belt force limiters, and front seat knee bolsters.

The system is designed to enhance the protection offered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal (front air bags and ETDs) and side (side impact air bags, window curtain air bags, and ETDs) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds and in certain rollovers (window curtain air bags and ETDs).

Never wear the shoulder belt under your arm, across your neck or not routed across your shoulder. In a frontal crash, your body would move too far forward. That would increase the chance of head and neck injuries. The seat belt would also apply too much force to the ribs or abdomen, which could severely injure internal organs such as your liver or spleen.

Adjust the seat belt so that the shoulder section is located as close as possible to the middle of the shoulder. It should not touch the neck. Never pass the shoulder portion of the seat belt under your arm. For this purpose, you can adjust the height of the seat belt outlet.

Position the lap belt as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdomen. If the lap belt is positioned across your abdomen, it could cause serious injuries in a crash.

Never wear seat belts over rigid or breakable objects in or on your clothing, such as eyeglasses, pens, keys etc., as these might cause injuries.

Make sure the seat belt is always routed snugly. Take special care of this when wearing loose clothing.

Never use a seat belt for more than one person at a time. Do not fasten a seat belt around a person and another person or other objects at the same time.

Seat belts should not be worn twisted. In a crash, you would not have the full width of the seat belt to distribute impact forces.

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The twisted seat belt against your body could cause injuries.

Pregnant women should also always use a lap-shoulder belt. The lap belt portion should be positioned as low as possible on the hips to avoid any possible pressure on the abdomen.

Place the seat backrest in a position that is as upright as possible.

Check your seat belt during travel to make sure it is properly positioned.

Never place your feet on the instrument panel, dashboard, or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

When using a seat belt to secure infant restraints, toddler restraints, or children in booster seats, always follow the child seat manufacturer's instructions.

Warning

Do not pass seat belts over sharp edges. They could tear.

Do not allow the seat belt to get caught in the door or in the seat adjustment mechanism. This could damage the seat belt.

Never attempt to make modifications to seat belts. This could impair the effectiveness of the seat belts.

A child's risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and/ or the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

Warning

Canada only: children 12 years old and under may ride on the front seat if a BabySmart™ compatible child restraint system is installed on the front-passenger seat. Use only Mercedes-Benz approved BabySmart™ compatible child restraint systems. A BabySmart™ compatible child restraint system will deactivate the front-passenger front air bag when installed properly. The front-passenger front air bag will not be deactivated if the child restraint systems that are installed are not BabySmart™ compatible or if BabySmart™ compatible child restraint systems are not installed correctly. If the front-passenger front air bag is deployed in a collision, the child could be struck by the air bag. This could lead to serious or fatal injury.

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Fastening seat belts

Warning

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained on the rear seats than on the front-passenger seat. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seat whenever possible. Regardless of seating position, children 12 years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriately sized child restraint system or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. For additional information, see the "Children in the vehicle" section.

Adjust the seat and move the backrest to an almost vertical position (Y page 92).

Pull the seat belt smoothly through belt sash guide :.

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Occupant safety

Without twisting it, place the shoulder section of the seat belt over the center of the shoulder and the lap section across the hips.

Engage belt tongue ; in buckle =. Seat belt adjustment: if necessary, the driver's and front-passenger seat belts automatically adjust to the upper body

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(Y page 56).

If necessary, adjust the seat belt to the appropriate height (Y page 56).

If necessary, pull upwards on the shoulder section of the seat belt to tighten the belt across your body.

All seat belts in the vehicle, except the driver's seat belt, are equipped with a special seat belt retractor to secure child restraint systems properly. For further information on "Special seat belt retractors", see (Y page 61).

For more information about releasing the seat belt with release button ?, see "Releasing seat belts" (Y page 56).

Seat belt adjustment

The belt adjustment function adjusts the driver's and front-passenger seat belt to the upper body of the occupants. The belt strap is tightened slightly when:

you engage the belt tongue in the belt buckle and you then turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the ignition lock.

the SmartKey is in position 2 in the ignition lock and you then engage the belt tongue in the buckle.

The seat-belt adjustment will apply a certain tightening force if any slack is detected between the occupant and the seat belt. Do not hold on to the seat belt tightly while it is adjusting. You can switch the belt adjustment on and off in the on-board computer (Y page 218).

Seat belt outlet height adjustment

You can adjust the seat belt height on the driver's seat and the front-passenger seat.

Adjust the belt to a height that allows the upper part of the seat belt to be routed across the center of your shoulder.

To raise: slide the belt sash guide upwards. The belt sash guide engages in various positions.

To lower: press and hold belt sash guide release :.

Slide the belt sash guide downwards.

Release belt sash guide release : and make sure that the belt sash guide has engaged.

Releasing seat belts

Press release button ?(Y page 55) and guide belt tongue ;(Y page 55) back towards belt sash guide :(Y page 55).

Make sure that the seat belt is fully rolled up. Otherwise, the seat belt or belt tongue will be trapped in the door or in the seat mechanism. This could damage the door, the door trim panel and the seat belt. Damaged seat belts can no longer fulfill their protective function and must be replaced. Consult an authorized MercedesBenz Center.

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Occupant safety

Belt warning for driver and front passenger

Regardless of whether the driver's and frontpassenger seat belts have already been fastened, the 7 seat belt warning lamp lights up for six seconds each time the engine is started. It then goes out once the driver and the front passenger have fastened their seat belts.

If the driver's seat belt is not fastened after the engine is started, an additional warning tone will sound. The warning tone goes out after approximately six seconds or once the driver's seat belt is fastened.

If after six seconds the driver or frontpassenger have not fastened their seat belts and the doors are closed:

the 7 seat belt warning lamp remains illuminated as long as either the driver's or front-passenger seat belt is not fastened.

if the vehicle speed once exceeds 15 mph (25 km/h), the 7 seat belt warning lamp lights up. Additionally, a warning tone will sound with increasing intensity for a maximum of 60 seconds or until the driver's and front-passenger seat belt are fastened.

If the driver/front passenger unfasten their seat belt while the vehicle is in motion, the 7 seat belt warning lamp lights up and a warning tone sounds again.

The warning tone ceases even if the driver or front passenger have still not fastened their seat belt after 60 seconds. The 7 seat belt warning lamp stops flashing but continues to be illuminated.

After the vehicle has come to a standstill, the warning tone is reactivated and the 7 seat belt warning lamp flashes again if the vehicle speed has exceeded 15 mph (25 km/h).

The 7 seat belt warning lamp only goes out if:

both the driver and the front passenger have fastened their seat belts

the vehicle is stationary and a door is open

For more information on the 7 seat

belt warning lamp, see "Indicator and warning lamps in the instrument cluster, seat belt" (Y page 248).

Emergency Tensioning Devices and seat belt force limiters

The front seat belts and the outer seat belts in the rear are equipped with ETDs and belt force limiters. In addition, the front seat belts are installed with belt buckle tensioners.

If the front-passenger seat is not occupied, do not engage the seat belt tongue in the buckle on the frontpassenger seat. Otherwise, the Emergency Tensioning Device/belt buckle tensioner could be triggered in the event of an accident.

ETDs/belt buckle tensioners tighten the seat belts in an accident, pulling them close against the body.

ETDs/belt buckle tensioners do not correct incorrect seat positions or incorrectly fastened seat belts.

ETDs do not pull vehicle occupants back towards the backrest.

Seat belt force limiters, when activated, are employed to help reduce the force exerted by the seat belts on occupants during a crash.

The front belt force limiters are synchronized with the front air bags, which take on a part of the deceleration force. Thus, the force exerted on the occupant is distributed over a greater area.

The ETDs/belt buckle tensioners can only be activated when:

the ignition is switched on

the restraint systems are operational; see "SRS warning lamp" (Y page 36)

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Children in the vehicle

the belt tongue is engaged in the buckle on each of the three-point seat belts in the front

the front-passenger seat is occupied and the belt tongue is engaged in the buckle on the front-passenger side.

The ETDs on the outside seats in the rear compartment are triggered independently of

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the lock status of the seat belts. The ETDs are triggered depending on the type

and severity of an accident:

in the event of a head-on or rear-end collision if the vehicle decelerates or accelerates rapidly in a longitudinal direction during the initial stages of the impact

in the event of a side impact, on the side opposite the impact if the vehicle decelerates or accelerates rapidly in a lateral direction

in certain situations if the vehicle overturns and the system determines that it can provide additional protection.

If the ETDs/belt buckle tensioners are triggered, you will hear a bang and a small amount of powder may also be released. Only in rare cases will the bang affect your hearing. The powder that is released generally does not constitute a health hazard. The + SRS warning lamp lights up.

If the belt buckle tensioners have been triggered on the front seats, the buckle will be pulled down and will be almost flush with the upper edge of the seat. The + SRS warning lamp is lit.

Warning

The belt buckle tensioners on the front seats only function if the belt buckles can be pulled down unobstructed. They must not be restricted in any way. Therefore, do not grab the belt buckles and do not place any objects under the belt buckles. Otherwise, the tensioning of the belt by the buckle is restricted or will not function, and will not provide any additional protection.

Warning

Pyrotechnical ETDs/belt buckle tensioners that were activated must be replaced.

For your safety, when disposing of the pyrotechnic ETDs/belt buckle tensioners always follow our safety instructions. These instructions are available from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

The PRE-SAFE® system is equipped with electrically reversible pre-tensioners that do not need replacing after deployment.

Children in the vehicle

Important safety guidelines

Warning

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock. Always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, even if they are secured in a child restraint system, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. A child's unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury. The children could:

injure themselves on parts of the vehicle

be seriously or fatally injured through excessive exposure to extreme heat or cold

injure themselves or cause an accident with vehicle equipment that can be operated even if the SmartKey is removed from the ignition lock or removed from the vehicle, such as seat adjustment, steering wheel adjustment, or the memory function

If children open a door, they could injure other persons or get out of the vehicle and injure themselves or be injured by following traffic.

Do not expose the child restraint system to direct sunlight. The child restraint system's metal parts, for example, could become very hot, and the child could be burned on these parts.

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Warning!

Do not carry heavy or hard objects in the passenger compartment or trunk unless they are firmly secured in place.

Unsecured or improperly positioned cargo increases a child's risk of injury in the event of

strong braking maneuvers

sudden changes of direction

an accident

If an infant or child is traveling in the vehicle:

Secure the child using an infant or child restraint system appropriate to the age and weight of the child.

Make sure that the infant or child is properly secured at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

Child restraint systems

Important safety guidelines

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 58).

We recommend all infants and children be properly restrained using the child restraint systems at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

The use of infant or child restraints is required by law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces.

Infants and small children should always be seated in an infant or child seat restraint system appropriate for the size and weight of the child. They must be properly secured in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions for the infant or child seat restraint system. All infant and child seat restraint systems must comply with the US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213

and 225 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213 and 210.2.

A statement by the child restraint manufacturer of compliance with these standards can be found on the instruction label on the child restraint system. You will also find the statement in the instruction manual provided with the child restraint system.

When using an infant restraint system, child restraint system or booster seat, make sure to carefully read and follow all manufacturer's instructions for installation and use.

Please read the warning labels affixed to the interior of the vehicle or to the infant restraint system or child restraint system.

Warning

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained on the rear seats than on the front-passenger seat. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seats whenever possible. Regardless of seating position, children 12 years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriately sized child restraint system or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child.

The infant or child restraint system must be properly secured with the vehicle's seat belt, the seat belt and Top Tether strap, or lower anchors and Top Tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer's instructions.

Occupants, especially children, should always sit as upright as possible, wear the seat belt properly and use an appropriately sized child restraint system or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child.

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Children can be killed or seriously injured by an inflating air bag. Note the following important information when circumstances require you to place a child in the frontpassenger seat:

USA only: Your vehicle is equipped with air bag technology that is designed to deactivate the front-passenger front air

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bag, when the system on the frontpassenger seat detects the weight of a typical 12-month old child in a standard child restraint.

USA only: Children that weigh more than a typical 12-month old child, the frontpassenger front air bag may be activated/ deactivated. Always make sure that the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated indicating that the frontpassenger front air bag is deactivated.

Canada only: Children 12 years old and under may ride on the front seat if a BabySmart™ compatible child restraint system is installed on the front-passenger seat. Use only Mercedes-Benz approved BabySmart™ compatible child restraint systems. A BabySmart™ compatible child restraint system will deactivate the frontpassenger front air bag when installed correctly. The front-passenger front air bag will not be deactivated if the child restraint systems that are installed are not BabySmart™ compatible or if BabySmart™ compatible child restraint systems are not installed correctly. If the front-passenger front air bag is deployed, the child could be killed when it inflates in a crash. This could lead to serious or fatal injury.

A child in a rear-facing child restraint on the passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the passenger front air bag inflates in a collision which could occur under some circumstances, even with the air bag technology installed in your vehicle. The only means to eliminate this risk completely is never to place a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the front seat.

We therefore strongly recommend that you always place a child in a rear-facing child restraint on the rear seat.

If you must install a rear-facing child restraint on the front-passenger seat because circumstances require you to do so, make sure the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated, indicating that the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated. Should the 42 indicator lamp not illuminate or go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. Periodically check the 42 indicator lamp while driving to make sure that the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated. If the 42 indicator lamp goes out or remains out, do not transport a child on the passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

A child in a rear-facing child restraint on the passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the passenger front air bag inflates.

If you place a child in a forward-facing child restraint on the passenger seat:

move the seat as far back as possible

use the proper child restraint recommended for the age, size and weight of the child

secure child restraint with the vehicle's seat belt according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions

For children larger than the typical 12month-old child, the passenger front air bag may or may not be activated.

Warning

Infants and small children should never share a seat belt with another occupant. During an accident, they could be crushed between the occupant and seat belt.

A child's risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and/

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or the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

Children too big for a toddler restraint must ride in seats using regular seat belts. Position the shoulder belt across the chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper seat belt positioning for children over 41 lb (18 kg) until they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without a booster.

When the child restraint is not in use, remove it from the vehicle or secure it with the seat belt to prevent the child restraint from becoming a projectile in the event of an accident.

Special seat belt retractor

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 58).

All seat belts in the vehicle, except the driver's seat belt, are equipped with a special seat belt retractor. The activated special seat belt retractor ensures that the seat belt cannot slacken after being fastened.

Installing a child restraint system:

Always comply with the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Pull the seat belt smoothly from the inertia reel.

Engage the seat belt tongue in the belt buckle.

Activating the special seat belt retractor:

Pull the seat belt out fully and let the inertia reel retract it again. While the seat belt is retracting, you should hear a ratcheting sound. The special seat belt retractor is activated.

Push down on the child restraint system to take up any slack.

Removing a child restraint system/ deactivating the special seat belt retractor:

Always comply with the manufacturer's installation instructions.

Press the seat belt release button and guide the belt tongue to the belt outlet. The special seat belt retractor is deactivated.

Warning

Never release the seat belt buckle while the vehicle is in motion, since the special seat belt retractor will be deactivated.

LATCH-type child restraint (ISOFIX) in the rear

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 58).

Warning

Children too big for a toddler restraint must ride in seats using regular seat belts. Position the shoulder belt across the chest and shoulder, not face or neck.

In order to attain the correct seating position for children weighing over 41 lb (18 kg), it may be necessary to use a booster seat until they reach a height where a normal lap/shoulder seat belt lies properly across their bodies without the need for a booster seat.

Install the child restraint system according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The child restraint system must be installed firmly on both brackets.

An incorrectly installed child restraint system can come loose in the event of an accident, causing the child to be severely or fatally injured.

Child restraint systems/child restraint retaining brackets that are damaged or have suffered damage due to an impact must be replaced.

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ISOFIX is a standardized securing system for specially-designed child restraint systems on the rear seats. Securing rings for two ISOFIX child restraint systems are installed on the left and right of the rear seats.

Install child restraint systems without the ISOFIX securing system using the vehicle's seat belts. Follow the manufacturer's

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instructions for installation of child restraint systems.

When installing the child restraint system, make sure that the seat belt for the center seat does not get trapped. Otherwise, the seat belt could be damaged.

Remove covers :.

Top Tether

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 58).

Warning

Always lock the rear seat backrests in their upright position when the rear seats are occupied by passengers. Lock the rear seat backrests in their upright position before installing the Top Tether straps or when the cargo compartment is not in use. Make sure that rear seat backrests are secured properly by pushing and pulling on the seat backrests. If the seat backrest is not locked properly, the seat backrest could fold forward. The child restraint system is no longer supported properly or held in position and can no longer fulfill its function. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries.

Top Tether provides an additional connection between the child restraint system secured with ISOFIX and the rear seat. It helps reduce the risk of injury even further.

The Top Tether anchorages are located on the rear of the rear seat backrests.

;

Securing rings

Install the ISOFIX child restraint system. Comply with the manufacturer's instructions when installing the ISOFIX child restraint system.

Remove respective covering cap : of the Top Tether anchorage.

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Move the head restraint upwards.

Install the ISOFIX child restraint system with Top Tether. Comply with the manufacturer's installation instructions when doing so.

Route Top Tether belt ? under the head restraint between the two head restraint bars.

Route Top Tether belt ? downwards between the cargo compartment cover and rear seat backrest.

Hook Top Tether hook = of Top Tether belt ? into Top Tether anchorage ;.

Ensure that:

Top Tether hook = is hooked into Top Tether anchorage ; as shown

Top Tether belt ? is not twisted

Top Tether belt ? is routed between the rear seat backrest and the cargo

Children in the vehicle

compartment cover if the cargo compartment cover is installed

Top Tether belt ? is routed between the rear seat backrest and the cargo net if the cargo net is installed.

Tension Top Tether belt ?. Comply with the manufacturer's installation instructions when doing so.

Move the head restraint back down again slightly if necessary (Y page 96). Make sure that you do not interfere with the correct routing of Top Tether belt ?.

Child-proof locks

Child-proof locks for the rear doors

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 58).

Warning

Children could open a rear door from inside the vehicle. This could result in serious injuries or an accident. Therefore, when children ride in the rear always secure the rear doors with the child-proof locks.

You secure each door individually with the child-proof locks on the rear doors. A door secured with a child-proof lock cannot be opened from inside the vehicle. When the vehicle is unlocked, the door can be opened from the outside.

Safety

Page 66

Panic alarm

To activate: press the child-proof lock lever down in the direction of arrow ;.

Make sure that the child-proof locks are working properly.

To deactivate: press the child-proof lock lever up in the direction of arrow :.

Safety

Override feature for the rear side windows

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 58).

Warning

When children ride on the vehicle's rear seats, activate the override switch. Otherwise, the children could be injured, e.g. by trapping themselves in the rear side window.

Panic alarm

To activate: press and hold ! button : for about one second. An alarm sounds and the exterior lighting flashes.

To deactivate: press ! button : again.

Insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock.

Press the KEYLESS-GO Start-Stop button. The KEYLESS-GO key must be in the

vehicle.

To activate/deactivate: press switch :. Switch : engages or extends. If the switch is pushed in, it is only possible to operate the side windows in the rear using the switches on the driver's door.

USA only:

This device complies with the part 15 of the FCC regulations. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause interference, and

2. This device must withstand 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.

Canada only:

This device complies with the RSS-210 regulations of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause interference, and

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Driving safety systems

2. This device must withstand any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Driving safety systems

Overview of driving safety systems

In this section, you will find information about the following driving safety systems:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

BAS (Brake Assist System)

ESP® (Electronic Stability Program)

EBD (Electronic Brake-power Distribution)

Important safety guidelines

Warning

The following factors increase the risk of accidents:

Excessive speed, especially in turns

Wet and slippery road surfaces

Following another vehicle too closely

The driving safety systems described in this section cannot reduce these risks or prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle. They cannot increase braking or steering efficiency beyond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded.

Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents.

The capabilities of a vehicle equipped with the driving safety systems described in this section must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user's safety or the safety of others.

Always adjust your driving style to the prevailing road and weather conditions and

keep a safe distance to other road users and objects on the street.

If a driving system malfunctions, other driving safety systems may also switch off. Observe indicator and warning lamps that may come on as well as messages in the multifunction display that may appear.

Warning!

In wintry driving conditions, always use winter tires (M+S tires) and if necessary, snow chains. Only in this way will the driving safety systems described in this section work as effectively as possible.

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Important safety information

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 65).

Warning!

Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pumping the brake pedal reduces the braking effect.

ABS regulates brake pressure in such a way that the wheels do not lock when you brake. This allows you to continue steering the vehicle when braking.

ABS works from a speed of about 5 mph (8 km/h) upwards, regardless of roadsurface conditions. ABS works on slippery surfaces, even when you only brake gently.

The ! warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up when the ignition is switched on. It goes out when the engine is running.

Safety

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Driving safety systems

Braking

If ABS intervenes when braking, you will feel a pulsing in the brake pedal.

If ABS intervenes: continue to depress the brake pedal with force until the braking situation is over.

To make a full brake application:

Safety

depress the brake pedal with full force.

Warning

If the ABS malfunctions, other driving systems such as the BAS or the ESP® are also switched off. Observe indicator and warning lamps that may come on as well as messages in the multifunction display that may appear.

If the ABS malfunctions, the wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing the steering capability and extending the braking distance.

The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving.

Off-road ABS (vehicles with 4MATIC)

An ABS system specifically suited to off-road terrain is activated automatically if the offroad drive program (Y page 193) is activated or the LOW RANGE off-road gear (Y page 194) is selected.

At a speed below 18 mph (30 km/h) the front wheels lock periodically when braking. The digging-in effect achieved in the process reduces the stopping distance on off-road terrain. This limits steering capability.

BAS (Brake Assist)

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 65).

BAS operates in emergency braking situations. If you depress the brake pedal

quickly, BAS automatically boosts the braking force, thus shortening the stopping distance.

Keep the brake pedal firmly depressed until the emergency braking situation is over. ABS prevents the wheels from locking.

The brakes will function as usual once you release the brake pedal. BAS is deactivated.

Warning

If the BAS malfunctions, the brake system still functions, but without the additional brake boost available that the BAS would normally provide in an emergency braking maneuver. Therefore, the braking distance may increase.

ESP® (Electronic Stability Program)

Important safety guidelines

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 65).

If ESP® detects that the vehicle is deviating from the direction desired by the driver, one or more wheels are braked to stabilize the vehicle. If necessary, the engine output is also modified to keep the vehicle on the desired course within physical limits. ESP® assists the driver when pulling away on wet or slippery roads. ESP® can also stabilize the vehicle during braking.

If ESP® intervenes, the d warning lamp flashes in the instrument cluster.

Warning

Never switch off the ESP® when you see the d warning lamp flashing in the instrument cluster. In this case proceed as follows:

When driving off, apply as little throttle as possible.

While driving, ease up on the accelerator pedal.

Adapt your speed and driving style to the prevailing road conditions.

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Driving safety systems

Failure to observe these guidelines could cause the vehicle to skid. The ESP® cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed.

Vehicles without 4MATIC: switch the

ignition off when:

the parking brake is being tested using a dynamometer

the vehicle is being towed with the front/ rear axle raised

Application of the brakes by ESP® may otherwise destroy the brake system.

Vehicles with 4MATIC: only operate the vehicle for a maximum of ten seconds on a brake test dynamometer. Switch off the ignition.

Application of the brakes by ESP® may otherwise destroy the brake system.

Vehicles with 4MATIC: function or performance tests may only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. If you wish to operate the vehicle on such a dynamometer, please consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center in advance. You could otherwise damage the drive train or the brake system.

Only use wheels with the recommended tire sizes. Only then will ESP® function properly.

ETS/4ETS (Electronic Traction System)

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 65).

Traction control is part of ESP®. Traction control brakes the drive wheels

individually if they spin. This enables you to pull away and accelerate on slippery surfaces, for example if the road surface is slippery on one side. On vehicles with 4MATIC, more drive torque is also transferred to the wheel or wheels with traction.

Traction control remains active if you deactivate ESP®.

Switch on the off-road drive program if appropriate for the driving conditions (Y page 193).

Off-road 4ETS (vehicles with 4MATIC)

A 4ETS mode specifically suited to off-road terrain is activated automatically once the offroad drive program (Y page 193) is activated.

Deactivating/activating ESP

Warning

The ESP® should not be switched off during normal driving other than in the circumstances described below. Disabling the system will reduce vehicle stability in driving maneuvers.

Do not switch off the ESP® when a spare wheel is mounted.

ESP® is activated automatically when the engine is running.

It may be best to deactivate ESP® in the following situations:

when using snow chains

in deep snow

on sand or gravel

Warning!

Activate ESP® as soon as the situations described above no longer apply. ESP® will otherwise not be able to stabilize the vehicle if the vehicle starts to skid or a wheel starts to spin.

If you deactivate ESP®:

ESP® no longer improves driving stability.

the engine's torque is no longer limited and the drive wheels can spin. The spinning of the wheels results in a cutting action, which provides better grip.

Safety

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Driving safety systems

traction control is still activated.

ESP® still provides support when you brake.

If ESP® is deactivated and one or more wheels start to spin, the d warning lamp in the instrument cluster flashes. In such situations, ESP® will not stabilize the vehicle.

Safety

To deactivate: press button :. The d warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up.

Warning

When the d ESP® warning lamp is illuminated continuously, the ESP® is

switched off or is not operational due to a malfunction. Vehicle stability in standard driving maneuvers is reduced.

Adapt your speed and driving style to the prevailing road conditions and to the nonoperating status of the ESP®.

oversteering or understeering, thus improving traction.

ESP® trailer stabilization

If your trailer begins to lurch, you can only stabilize the vehicle/trailer combination by depressing the brake firmly.

In this situation, ESP® assists you and can detect if the trailer begins to lurch. ESP

slows the vehicle down by braking and limiting the engine output until the vehicle/ trailer combination has stabilized.

Trailer stabilization is active from a speed above 40 mph (65 km/h).

Warning!

The system will not be able to assist when the trailer jackknifes

if the ESP® has switched off due to a malfunction

on wet or icy roads

on roads with slippery surface

in sand or gravel

Trailers with a high center of gravity may tip over before the system recognizes swaying of the trailer.

Trailer stabilization does not work if ESP® is deactivated or disabled because of a malfunction.

Avoid spinning a drive wheel for an extended period with ESP switched off. This could cause serious damage to the drive train.

To activate: press button :. The d warning lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

Off-road ESP

An ESP® system specifically suited to off-road terrain is activated automatically once the offroad drive program (Y page 193) is activated. It intervenes with a delay if there is

EBD

Warning

Observe "Important safety instructions" (Y page 65).

EBD monitors and controls the brake pressure on the rear wheels to improve driving stability while braking.

Warning!

If the EBD malfunctions, the brake system will still function with full brake boost. However, the rear wheels could lock up during

Page 71

emergency braking situations, for example. You could lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident.

Adapt your driving style to the changed driving characteristics.

Anti-theft systems

To activate/deactivate: activate or deactivate the distance warning function in the on-board computer (Y page 219). After activation, the Ä symbol is displayed in the lower multifunction display.

Distance warning function (vehicles with DISTRONIC)

This function warns you from a speed of approximately 20 mph (30 km/h), if:

for a period of several seconds, the distance to the vehicle in front is too short for the speed at which you are traveling. The · distance warning lamp in the instrument cluster will light up.

you are approaching the vehicle in front rapidly. An intermittent warning tone will then sound and the · distance warning lamp in the instrument cluster will light up.

You must apply the brakes yourself in order to maintain the appropriate distance to the vehicle in front and prevent a collision.

Warning!

If the distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster comes on while driving and/or an intermittent warning sounds, immediate attention on the part of the driver is required. As required by the traffic situation, apply the brakes and navigate around a possible obstacle. However, do not drive by relying on the distance warning function, as this will result in an emergency braking application. This will not always enable you to avoid a collision, especially when traveling on varying road surface conditions and with varying driver reaction.

Complex driving situations are not always fully recognized by the distance warning function. This could result in wrong or missing distance warnings.

Anti-theft systems

Immobilizer

The immobilizer prevents your vehicle from being started without the correct SmartKey.

When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. The engine can be started by anyone with a valid SmartKey that is left inside the vehicle.

To activate with the SmartKey: remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock.

To activate with KEYLESS-GO: switch the ignition off and open the driver's door.

To deactivate: switch on the ignition.

The immobilizer is always deactivated

when you start the engine. In the event that the engine cannot be

started when the starter battery is fully charged, the immobilizer may be faulty. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (in USA) or 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada).

ATA (Anti-Theft Alarm system)

A visual and audible alarm is triggered if the alarm system is armed and you open:

a door

the vehicle with the mechanical key

the tailgate

the hood

The alarm is not switched off, even if you close the open door that has triggered it, for example.

Safety

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Anti-theft systems

i If the alarm stays on for more than 30

seconds, the emergency call system mbrace (USA only) or Tele Aid (Canada only) initiates a call to the Customer Assistance Center automatically. The emergency call system initiates the call provided that:

you have subscribed to the mbrace/Tele

Safety

Aid service

the mbrace/Tele Aid service has been activated properly

the mobile phone, power supply and GPS necessary are available

To arm: lock the vehicle with the SmartKey or KEYLESS-GO. The turn signal lamps flash three times to indicate that the vehicle is locked. Indicator lamp : flashes to indicate that the alarm system is armed.

If the turn signal lamps do not flash three times, a door or the tailgate may not be properly closed.

It may be necessary to close the affected door or the tailgate.

To deactivate: unlock the vehicle using the key or KEYLESS-GO. The turn signal lamps flash once to indicate that the anti-theft alarm system is switched off.

i Unless you open a door or the trunk lid

within 40 seconds after unlocking the vehicle:

the vehicle will be locked again.

the anti-theft alarm system will be rearmed.

To stop the alarm using the SmartKey:

insert the key into the ignition lock. The alarm is switched off.

Press the % or & button on the key. The alarm is switched off.

To stop the alarm using KEYLESS-GO:

grasp the outside door handle. The key must be outside the vehicle. The alarm is switched off.

Press the Start/Stop button on the dashboard. The key must be inside the vehicle. The alarm is switched off.

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Vehicle equipment .............................. 72

SmartKey ............................................. 72

Doors .................................................... 78

Cargo compartment ............................ 80

Side windows ...................................... 84

Sliding sunroof .................................... 88

Opening and closing

Page 74

SmartKey

Vehicle equipment

SmartKey

Important safety guidelines

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the

Opening and closing

SmartKey from the starter switch. Always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, even if they are secured in a child restraint system, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. A child's unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury. The children could

injure themselves on parts of the vehicle

be seriously or fatally injured through excessive exposure to extreme heat or cold

injure themselves or cause an accident with vehicle equipment that can be operated even if the SmartKey is removed from the starter switch or removed from the vehicle, such as seat adjustment, steering wheel adjustment, or the memory function

If children open a door, they could injure other persons or get out of the vehicle and injure themselves or be injured by following traffic.

Do not expose the child restraint system to direct sunlight. The child restraint system's metal parts, for example, could become very hot, and the child could be burned by these parts.

Warning!

Do not carry heavy or hard objects in the passenger compartment or cargo compartment unless they are firmly secured in place.

Unsecured or improperly positioned cargo increases a child’s risk of injury in the event of

strong braking maneuvers

sudden changes of direction

an accident

General information

If you cannot open or lock the vehicle with the SmartKey, either the battery in the SmartKey is empty, the SmartKey is faulty, or the vehicle battery is discharged.

Check the battery in the SmartKey and replace it if necessary (Y page 76).

Unlock the driver's door using the mechanical key (Y page 75).

Lock the vehicle using the mechanical key (Y page 75).

Have the vehicle battery and battery contacts checked by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If the SmartKey is faulty, contact Roadside Assistance or an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

SmartKey functions

General notes

USA only:

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC regulations. Operation is subject to the following conditions:

1. This device must not cause any harmful interference, and

2. This device must be able to accommodate interference that is

Page 75

SmartKey

received, including interference which could cause unwanted functions.

Unapproved modifications to this device may lead to withdrawal of permission to operate it.

Canada only:

This device complies with Industry Canada's RSS–210 regulations. Operation is subject to the following conditions:

1. This device must not cause any harmful interference, and

2. This device must be able to accommodate interference that is received, including interference which could cause unwanted functions.

Unapproved modifications to this device may lead to withdrawal of permission to operate it.

Locking and unlocking centrally

The SmartKey centrally locks/unlocks:

the doors

the tailgate

the fuel filler flap

& To lock the vehicle

;

F To open/close the tailgate

% To unlock the vehicle

When unlocking, the turn signals flash once. When locking, they flash three times.

When it is dark, the surround lighting also comes on if it is activated in the on-board computer.

To unlock centrally: press the % button.

If you do not open a door or the tailgate within approximately 40 seconds of unlocking the vehicle:

the vehicle is locked again.

the theft deterrent locking system is armed again.

To lock centrally: press the & button.

KEYLESS-GO

General notes

USA only:

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC regulations. Operation is subject to the following conditions:

1. This device must not cause any harmful interference, and

2. This device must be able to accommodate interference that is received, including interference which could cause unwanted functions.

Unapproved modifications to this device may lead to withdrawal of permission to operate it.

Canada only:

This device complies with Industry Canada's RSS–210 regulations. Operation is subject to the following conditions:

1. This device must not cause any harmful interference, and

2. This device must be able to accommodate interference that is received, including interference which could cause unwanted functions.

Unapproved modifications to this device may lead to withdrawal of permission to operate it.

Opening and closing

Page 76

SmartKey

Important information about using KEYLESS-GO

You can use the KEYLESS-GO key as a conventional SmartKey.

You can combine KEYLESS-GO functions with those of a conventional SmartKey, e.g. you can open the vehicle with KEYLESS-GO and close it with the & button.

Always carry your KEYLESS-GO key on your person.

Never store the KEYLESS-GO key together with:

electronic devices, such as a mobile phone or other SmartKey

metal objects, such as coins or metal foil

Doing so may impair the function of

Opening and closing

KEYLESS-GO.

To open or close the vehicle, the KEYLESSGO key should not be more than 3 ft (1 m) from the door or tailgate.

If the vehicle is parked for more than 72 hours, the KEYLESS-GO function is deactivated. Pull an outer door handle and switch on the ignition to reactivate the KEYLESS-GO function.

If the KEYLESS-GO key is removed from the vehicle, the system may not be able to recognize the SmartKey anymore. The vehicle can then no longer be locked or started with KEYLESS-GO.

If the KEYLESS-GO key has been removed from the vehicle, e.g. when another vehicle occupant with a KEYLESS-GO key leaves the vehicle:

when the Start/Stop button is pressed, or when trying to lock the vehicle using the locking button on the outside door handle, the Key Not Detected message appears in the multifunction display.

when the engine is running, the red Key Not Detected message appears in the

multifunction display as you pull away. Look for the KEYLESS-GO key and place it somewhere else in the vehicle. Place the KEYLESS-GO key on the front-

passenger seat, for example, or in your shirt pocket.

If you have switched on the engine with the Start/Stop button, you can switch it off again by:

pressing the Start/Stop button

inserting the KEYLESS-GO key into the ignition lock while the vehicle is at a standstill and the automatic transmission is in park position P.

You may inadvertently unlock the vehicle if the KEYLESS-GO key is less than 3 ft (1 m) from the vehicle and:

an exterior door handle is hit by a jet of water, or

you clean an exterior door handle

Please note that any vehicle occupant can start the engine when there is a KEYLESSGO key in the vehicle.

Scenario 1: There is a KEYLESS-GO key in the vehicle and a second one outside the vehicle. If you leave the KEYLESS-GO key in the vehicle when you leave and lock the vehicle, no message appears in the multifunction display.

Scenario 2: There is a KEYLESS-GO key in the vehicle, but none outside the vehicle. If you get out of the vehicle and attempt to lock it, the Key Detected In Vehicle message appears in the multifunction display. The vehicle is not then locked.

When starting the engine and whilst driving, KEYLESS-GO also checks whether a valid SmartKey is in the vehicle by periodically establishing radio contact.

Page 77

To unlock the vehicle: touch the inner surface of the door handle.

To lock the vehicle: press locking button :.

If you pull on the handle of the tailgate, only the cargo compartment of the vehicle is unlocked.

Changing the settings of the locking system

You can change the setting of the locking system in such a way that only the driver's door and the fuel filler flap are unlocked. This is useful if you frequently travel on your own.

To change the setting: press and hold down the % and & buttons simultaneously for approximately six seconds until the battery check lamp (Y page 76) flashes twice.

The SmartKey now functions as follows:

To unlock the driver's door: press the

% button once.

To unlock centrally: press the % button twice.

To lock centrally: press the & button.

The KEYLESS-GO function is changed as follows:

To unlock the driver's door: touch the inner surface of the door handle on the driver's door.

To unlock centrally: touch the inner surface of the door handle on the frontpassenger door or the rear door.

To lock centrally: press locking button : on one of the door handles.

SmartKey

Mechanical key

General notes

If the vehicle can no longer be unlocked with the SmartKey, use the mechanical key.

If you use the mechanical key to unlock and open the driver's door, the anti-theft alarm system will be triggered (Y page 69).

There are several ways to turn off the alarm:

Press the % or & button on the SmartKey.

Insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock.

Press the Start/Stop button in the ignition lock. The SmartKey must be in the vehicle.

Lock or unlock the vehicle using KEYLESSGO. The SmartKey must be outside the vehicle.

Removing the mechanical key

Push release catch : in the direction of the arrow and at the same time, remove mechanical key ; from the SmartKey.

Opening and closing

Restoring the factory settings

Press the % and & buttons simultaneously for approximately six seconds until the battery check lamp flashes twice.

SmartKey battery

Important safety guidelines

It is advisable to have batteries replaced at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

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SmartKey

Warning

Batteries contain toxic and caustic substances. For this reason, keep batteries out of the reach of children.

If a battery has been swallowed, seek medical help immediately.

Warning

The SmartKey batteries contain perchlorate material, which may require special handling and regard for the environment. Observe government disposal guidelines. California residents, see www.dtsc.ca.gov/

HazardousWaste/Perchlorate/ index.cfm.

Checking the battery

Opening and closing

Changing the battery

You require a CR 2025 3 V cell battery.

Take the mechanical key out of the SmartKey (Y page 75).

Press mechanical key ; into the opening in the SmartKey in the direction of the arrow until battery tray cover : opens. Do not hold the cover closed while doing so.

Press the & or % button. The SmartKey battery is working properly if battery charge indicator lamp : lights up briefly.

If battery charge indicator lamp : does not light up briefly during the test, the SmartKey battery is discharged.

Replace the SmartKey battery (Y page 76).

You can obtain a SmartKey battery at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If the SmartKey battery is checked within signal range of the vehicle, pressing the & or % button results in the vehicle being locked or unlocked respectively.

Remove the cover of the battery tray.

Repeatedly tap the SmartKey against your palm until battery = falls out.

Insert the new battery with the positive pole facing upwards. Use a lint-free cloth to do so.

Insert the front tabs of the battery tray's cover first and then press to close it.

Check the function of all SmartKey buttons on the vehicle.

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Problems with the SmartKey

Problem Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

SmartKey

You cannot lock or unlock the vehicle using the SmartKey.

You can no longer lock or unlock the vehicle using KEYLESS-GO.

The SmartKey battery is discharged or nearly discharged.

Point the tip of the SmartKey at the driver's door handle from a distance of approximately 1.5 ft (50 cm) and try to unlock or lock the vehicle again.

If this does not work:

Check the SmartKey battery and replace it if necessary (Y page 76).

Lock (Y page 80) or unlock (Y page 80) the vehicle using the mechanical key.

The SmartKey is faulty.

Lock (Y page 80) or unlock (Y page 80) the vehicle using the mechanical key.

Have the SmartKey checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

KEYLESS-GO is in standby mode because the vehicle has not been unlocked for an extended period.

Pull the door handle twice and then insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock.

There is a malfunction with KEYLESS-GO.

Lock/unlock the vehicle using the remote control function of the SmartKey. Point the tip of the SmartKey at the driver's door handle from close range and press the %/& button.

Have the SmartKey checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

Opening and closing

You have lost the SmartKey.

You have lost the mechanical key.

There is interference from a powerful source of radio waves.

Lock/unlock the vehicle using the remote control function of the SmartKey. Point the tip of the SmartKey at the driver's door handle from close range and press the %/& button.

Have the SmartKey canceled at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Report the loss immediately to the vehicle insurers.

If necessary, have the locks changed as well.

Report the loss immediately to the vehicle insurers.

If necessary, have the locks changed as well.

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Doors

Problem Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

The engine cannot be started using the SmartKey.

The on-board voltage is too low.

Switch off non-essential consumers, e.g. seat heating or interior lighting, and try to start the engine again.

If this does not work:

Check the starter battery and charge it if necessary (Y page 312).

Jump-start the vehicle (Y page 315).

Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

The engine cannot be started using KEYLESSGO. The SmartKey is in

Opening and closing

the vehicle.

A door is open. Therefore, the SmartKey cannot be detected as easily.

Close the door and try to start the vehicle again.

There is interference from a powerful source of radio waves.

Start your vehicle with the SmartKey in the ignition lock.

Doors

Important safety guidelines

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch. Always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, even if they are secured in a child restraint system, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. A child's unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury. The children could

injure themselves on parts of the vehicle

be seriously or fatally injured through excessive exposure to extreme heat or cold

If children open a door, they could injure other persons or get out of the vehicle and injure themselves or be injured by following traffic.

Do not expose the child restraint system to direct sunlight. The child restraint system's metal parts, for example, could become very hot, and the child could be burned by these parts.

Warning!

Do not carry heavy or hard objects in the passenger compartment or cargo compartment unless they are firmly secured in place.

Unsecured or improperly positioned cargo increases a child’s risk of injury in the event of

strong braking maneuvers

sudden changes of direction

an accident

Page 81

Unlocking and opening doors from the inside

You can open a door from inside the vehicle even if it has been locked, unless the childproof locks have been activated (Y page 63).

Open the door only when the traffic conditions permit.

If the vehicle has been opened with the SmartKey or KEYLESS-GO key, opening from inside triggers the anti-theft alarm system. Switch off the alarm (Y page 69).

Pull door handle ;. If the door is locked, locking knob : pops up. The door is unlocked and can be opened.

Centrally locking and unlocking the vehicle from the inside

You can centrally lock or unlock the vehicle from the inside. This feature may be useful if, for example, you wish to unlock the frontpassenger door from the inside or lock the vehicle before you pull away.

The central locking/unlocking button does not lock or unlock the fuel filler flap.

The buttons are located on both front doors.

You cannot unlock the vehicle centrally from the inside if the vehicle has been locked with the SmartKey or KEYLESS-GO.

It is only possible to lock the vehicle centrally if the front-passenger door is closed.

Doors

To lock: press button ;. The vehicle locks itself when all doors and the tailgate are closed.

To unlock: press button :.

You can open a front door from inside the vehicle even if it has been locked. Open the door only when the traffic conditions permit.

If the vehicle has been locked with the locking button for the central locking function:

and the SmartKey has been reset to the factory settings, the complete vehicle is unlocked when a front door is opened from the inside

and the SmartKey has been set to an individual setting, only the front door that is opened from the inside is unlocked

If the vehicle has been locked centrally with the SmartKey or with KEYLESS-GO, it is not unlocked if you use the unlocking button for the central locking system.

Automatic locking

The vehicle locks automatically when the ignition is switched on and the wheels of the vehicle are moving at a speed above 9 mph (15 km/h). Therefore, there is a risk of being locked out when the vehicle is being pushed, towed or tested on a dynamometer.

You can switch the automatic locking function on and off using the on-board computer (Y page 217).

Opening and closing

Page 82

Cargo compartment

Unlocking the driver's door (mechanical key)

If the vehicle can no longer be unlocked centrally with the SmartKey or KEYLESS-GO:

Take the mechanical key out of the SmartKey (Y page 75).

Insert the mechanical key into the lock of the driver's door as far as it will go.

Opening and closing

Press down the locking knobs in the frontpassenger and rear doors manually, if necessary.

Close the driver's door from the outside.

Press down the locking knob of the driver's door by reaching in through the open rear door.

Make sure that you have the SmartKey on your person and that it has not been left in the vehicle.

Close the rear door on the driver’s side.

Make sure that the doors and the tailgate are locked.

If you lock the vehicle as described above, the fuel filler flap is not locked. The antitheft alarm system is not primed.

Firmly turn the mechanical key counterclockwise as far as it will go to position 1 and hold it in this position.

Pull the door handle quickly. The locking knob pops up.

The door is unlocked.

Turn the mechanical key back and remove it.

Pull the door handle again.

Locking the vehicle

If the vehicle can no longer be locked centrally with the SmartKey or KEYLESS-GO:

Close the front-passenger door, the rear door on the front-passenger side and the tailgate.

Open the driver’s door and the rear door on the driver’s side.

Press the locking button on the driver’s door (Y page 79). The locking knobs in the front-passenger door and in the rear doors drop down.

Cargo compartment

Important safety guidelines

Do not leave the SmartKey in the cargo compartment. You could otherwise lock yourself out.

Warning

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock. Always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unsupervised in the vehicle, even if they are secured in a child restraint system, and do not give them access to an unlocked vehicle. A child’s unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury. They could:

injure themselves on vehicle parts

be seriously or fatally injured by extreme heat or cold

injure themselves or have an accident with vehicle equipment that may still be in operation even after the SmartKey has been removed from the ignition, such as the seat adjustment, steering wheel adjustment or memory function.

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Cargo compartment

If children open a door, they could cause severe or even fatal injury to other persons; if they get out of the vehicle, they could injure themselves when doing so or be seriously or even fatally injured by any passing traffic.

Do not expose the child restraint system to direct sunlight. The child restraint system’s metal parts, for example, could become very hot, and a child could be burned on these parts.

Warning!

Do not carry heavy or hard objects in the passenger compartment or cargo compartment unless they are firmly secured in place.

Unsecured or improperly positioned cargo increases a child’s risk of injury in the event of

strong braking maneuvers

sudden changes of direction

an accident

Warning!

Make sure the tailgate is closed when the engine is running and while driving. Among other dangers, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle interior resulting in unconsciousness and death.

Opening and closing from the outside

Opening

You can only open the tailgate after unlocking it first.

Press the % button on the SmartKey.

Pull handle :.

Raise the tailgate.

Closing

Warning!

To prevent possible personal injury, always keep hands and fingers away from the cargo compartment opening when closing the tailgate. Be especially careful when small children are around.

Opening and closing

The tailgate swings upwards and to the rear when opened. Therefore, make sure that there is sufficient clearance above and behind the tailgate.

For the tailgate to be opened fully, there must be a minimum clearance from floor to ceiling of 7.20 ft (2.20 m).

The tailgate can be:

opened and closed manually from outside

opened and closed automatically from outside

opened and closed automatically from inside

Pull the tailgate down using recess :.

Push the tailgate closed from outside the vehicle.

Lock the vehicle if necessary with the & button on the SmartKey or with KEYLESS-GO (Y page 73).

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Cargo compartment

Automatic opening and closing from the outside

Important safety guidelines

Warning!

The tailgate swings upwards and to the rear when opened. Therefore, make sure that there is sufficient clearance above and behind the tailgate.

For the tailgate to be opened fully, there must be a minimum clearance from floor to ceiling

Opening and closing

of 7.20 ft (2.20 m).

Opening

You can open the tailgate automatically with the SmartKey or the handle in the tailgate.

Press and hold the F button on the SmartKey until the tailgate opens.

When the tailgate is unlocked, pull the handle and let it go again immediately.

Closing

Warning!

Monitor the closing procedure carefully to make sure no one is in danger of being injured. To prevent possible personal injury, always keep hands and fingers away from the cargo compartment opening when closing the tailgate. Be especially careful when small children are around. To stop the closing procedure, do one of the following:

Press or pull the remote tailgate opening/ closing switch on the driver’s door.

Press the tailgate closing switch.

Press the KEYLESS-GO locking/closing switch.

Pull outside handle on the tailgate.

When no SmartKey is inserted in the starter switch (vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: Make sure the vehicle’s on-board electronics have status 0): Press button F on the SmartKey.

You can close the tailgate automatically using the SmartKey, the closing button6 or the locking button7.

Closing button and locking button (example: vehicle with the EASY-PACK tailgate and KEYLESSGO)

To close: press closing button : on the tailgate.

Press and hold the F button on the SmartKey until the tailgate closes.

To close and lock simultaneously:

Press locking button ; on the tailgate.

The tailgate can only be opened and closed with the SmartKey if there is no SmartKey in the ignition lock.

If the tailgate touches an object while closing, the closing procedure is interrupted and the tailgate reopens.

Only with KEYLESS-GO: if you leave a KEYLESS-GO key in the cargo compartment, the tailgate will not lock.

For vehicles with the EASY-PACK tailgate only.

For vehicles with the EASY-PACK tailgate and KEYLESS-GO only.

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Cargo compartment

The tailgate is not closed unless a KEYLESS-GO key is detected.

Automatic opening and closing from the inside

Warning!

Maintain sight of the area around the rear of the vehicle while operating the tailgate with the door-mounted remote tailgate switch. Monitor the opening procedure carefully to make sure no one is in danger of being injured.

To interrupt the opening procedure, press or pull the door-mounted remote tailgate switch.

When the SmartKey is not inserted in the starter switch (vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: Make sure the vehicle’s on-board electronics have status 0): Press button F on the SmartKey.

Warning!

Maintain sight of the area around the rear of the vehicle while operating the tailgate with the door-mounted remote tailgate switch. Monitor the closing procedure carefully to make sure no one is in danger of being injured.

To interrupt the closing procedure, press or pull the door-mounted remote tailgate switch.

Warning!

To prevent possible personal injury, always keep hands and fingers away from the cargo compartment opening when closing the tailgate. Be especially careful when small children are around.

Warning!

You can open/close the tailgate from the driver's seat when the vehicle is stationary.

To open: pull remote operating switch : for the tailgate until the tailgate opens.

To close: turn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the ignition lock.

Press remote operating switch for tailgate : until the tailgate is closed.

If the tailgate touches an object, the closing procedure is interrupted and the tailgate reopens.

To interrupt the closing procedure: pull or push the remote operating switch for tailgate :.

Limiting the opening angle of the tailgate

Important safety guidelines

You can limit the opening angle of the tailgate in the top half of its opening range. This could be useful, for example, if there is insufficient space above the tailgate.

Make sure there is sufficient clearance to open the tailgate fully when setting the opening angle. The tailgate could otherwise be damaged. Ideally, set the opening angle outside.

Opening and closing

Page 86

Side windows

Activating the tailgate

To open the tailgate: pull the handle on the tailgate.

To stop the opening procedure at the desired position: press the close button

(Y page 82) on the tailgate or pull the handle on the outside of the tailgate again.

To store the position: press and hold the closing button on the tailgate until you hear a short tone. The opening angle limiter is activated. The tailgate will now stop in the stored position when opening.

Deactivating the tailgate

Press and hold the closing button

Opening and closing

(Y page 82) in the tailgate until you hear two short tones.

Tailgate emergency release

If the tailgate can no longer be opened from outside the vehicle, use the emergency release on the inside of the tailgate.

To open the tailgate completely, a minimum clearance of 7.20 ft (220 cm) above the ground is necessary.

Pull cover ; off the tailgate trim.

Push release catch : to the left as far as the stop and open the tailgate.

Side windows

Important safety guidelines

Warning

injure themselves on vehicle parts

be seriously or fatally injured by extreme heat or cold

Do not expose the child restraint system to direct sunlight. The child restraint system’s metal parts, for example, could become very hot, and a child could be burned on these parts.

The tailgate swings upwards and to the rear when opened. Therefore, make sure that there is sufficient clearance above and behind the tailgate.

Warning!

Do not carry heavy or hard objects in the passenger or cargo compartment unless they are firmly secured in place.

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Side windows

Unsecured or improperly positioned cargo increases a child’s risk of injury in the event of

strong braking maneuvers

sudden changes of direction

an accident

Warning!

When opening or closing the door windows, make sure there is no danger of anyone being harmed by the opening/closing procedure.

The door windows are equipped with the automatic operation and anti-entrapment features. If during automatic operation a door window encounters an obstruction that blocks its path, the anti-entrapment feature will stop the door window and open it slightly.

The door windows operate differently when the switch is pulled and held. See the "Closing when a door window is blocked" section in this chapter for details.

The closing of the door windows can be immediately halted by releasing the switch or, if the switch was pulled past the resistance point and released, by either pressing or pulling the respective switch.

If a door window encounters an obstruction that blocks its path in a circumstance where you are closing the door windows by pressing and holding button & on the SmartKey or by pressing and holding the lock button (vehicles with KEYLESS-GO) on an outside door handle, the anti-entrapment feature will not operate.

Activate the override switch when children are riding in the back seats of the vehicle. The children may otherwise injure themselves, e.g. by becoming trapped in the door window opening.

Warning!

Do not keep any part of your body up against the window pane when opening a window. The downward motion of the pane may pull that part of your body down between the window

pane and the door frame and trap it there. If there is a risk of entrapment, release the switch and pull it to close the window.

Opening and closing the side windows

Front left

;

Front right

Rear right

Rear left

The switches for all side windows are located on the driver's door. There is also a switch on each door for the corresponding side window.

It is not possible to operate the door windows from the rear compartment when the override feature is activated for the door windows.

Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the ignition lock.

To open: press the corresponding switch.

To close: pull the corresponding switch.

If you press the switch beyond the point of resistance, an automatic opening/ closing process is started in the corresponding direction. You can stop automatic operation by pressing again.

You can continue to operate the side windows after you switch off the engine. This function remains active for five minutes or until one of the front doors is opened.

Opening and closing

Page 88

Side windows

Convenience opening

You can ventilate the vehicle before you start driving. To do this, you can use the SmartKey to simultaneously:

open the side windows

open the sliding sunroof

switch on the seat ventilation of the driver's seat (Canada only)

The convenience opening feature can only be operated using the SmartKey. The SmartKey must be close to the driver's door handle.

Point the tip of the SmartKey at the driver's door handle.

Unlock the vehicle by pressing the %

Opening and closing

button.

Press and hold the % button until the side windows and the sliding sunroof are in the desired position.

To interrupt the convenience opening:

release the % button.

Convenience closing

General information

When you lock the vehicle, you can simultaneously:

close the side windows

close the sliding sunroof

Warning

When closing the door windows and the sliding sunroof, make sure that there is no danger of anyone being harmed by the closing procedure.

If potential danger exists, proceed as follows:

Release the & button to stop the closing procedure. To open, press and hold the % button. To continue the closing procedure after making sure that there is no danger of anyone being harmed by the

closing procedure, press and hold the & button.

Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO:

Release the lock button on the outside door handle to stop the closing procedure.

Immediately pull on the same outside door handle and hold firmly. The door windows and the sliding sunroof will open for as long as the door handle is held but the door is not opened.

Using the SmartKey

The SmartKey must be close to the

driver's door handle.

Point the tip of the SmartKey at the driver's door handle.

Lock the vehicle by pressing the & button.

Press and hold the & button until the side windows and the sliding sunroof are fully closed.

Make sure that all the side windows and the sliding sunroof are closed.

To interrupt the convenience closing:

release the & button.

Using KEYLESS-GO

The KEYLESS-GO key must be outside the vehicle but must not be further than 3 ft (1 m) from a door.

Close all the doors.

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Side windows

Keep locking button : on the door handle pressed until the side windows and the sliding sunroof are fully closed.

Make sure that all the side windows and the sliding sunroof are closed.

To interrupt convenience closing:

release locking button : on the door handle.

Resetting the side windows

You must reset each side window if:

the battery has been disconnected or has become discharged.

the side window can no longer be fully opened or closed.

Close all the doors.

Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the ignition lock.

Pull the corresponding switch on the door control panel until the side window is completely closed. (Y page 85)

Hold the switch for an additional second.

If the side window opens again slightly:

Immediately pull the corresponding switch on the door control panel until the side window is completely closed (Y page 85).

Hold the switch for an additional second.

If the corresponding side window remains closed after the button has been released, the side window has been reset correctly. If this is not the case, repeat the steps above again.

Problem: a side window cannot be closed because objects in the guide rail are preventing the window from being raised.

Remove the objects.

Close the side window.

Problem: a side window cannot be closed, and you cannot see the cause.

Warning

Closing the side windows with increased force or without the anti-entrapment feature could lead to serious or even fatal injury. Make sure that nobody can become trapped when closing the side windows.

If a side window is obstructed during closing and reopens again slightly:

Immediately after the window blocks, pull the corresponding switch again until the side window has closed. The side window is closed with increased force.

If a side window is obstructed again during closing and reopens again slightly:

Immediately after the window blocks, pull the corresponding switch again until the side window has closed. The side window is closed without the antientrapment feature.

Warning!

Pulling and holding the switch to close the door window immediately after it had been blocked two times will cause the door window to close without the anti-entrapment feature for as long as you hold the switch.

Opening and closing

Problems with the side windows

Problem: a side window cannot be closed because objects are trapped between the side window and the door frame.

Remove the objects.

Close the side window.

Page 90

Sliding sunroof

Important safety guidelines

Warning!

injure themselves on parts of the vehicle

be seriously or fatally injured through excessive exposure to extreme heat or cold

Opening and closing

If children open a door, they could injure other persons or get out of the vehicle and injure themselves or be injured by following traffic.

Do not expose the child restraint system to direct sunlight. The child restraint system's metal parts, for example, could become very hot, and the child could be burned by these parts.

Warning!

Do not carry heavy or hard objects in the passenger or cargo compartment unless they are firmly secured in place.

Unsecured or improperly positioned cargo increases a child’s risk of injury in the event of

strong braking maneuvers

sudden changes of direction

an accident

Warning!

When opening or closing the tilt/sliding sunroof, make sure there is no danger of anyone being harmed by the opening/closing procedure.

The tilt/sliding sunroof is equipped with the automatic operation and anti-entrapment features. If the movement of the tilt/sliding sunroof is blocked during the closing procedure, the tilt/sliding sunroof will stop and open slightly.

The tilt/sliding sunroof operates differently when the sunroof switch is pressed and held. See the "Closing when the tilt/sliding sunroof is blocked" section for details.

The opening/closing procedure of the tilt/ sliding sunroof can be immediately halted by releasing the sunroof switch or, if the sunroof switch was moved past the resistance point and released, by moving the sunroof switch in any direction.

Warning!

The tilt/sliding sunroof is made out of glass. In the event of an accident, the glass may shatter. This may result in an opening in the roof.

In a vehicle rollover, occupants not wearing their seat belts or not wearing them properly may be thrown out of the opening. Such an opening also presents a potential for injury for occupants wearing their seat belts properly as entire body parts or portions of them may protrude from the passenger compartment.

Only open the sliding sunroof if it is free of snow and ice. Otherwise, malfunctions may occur.

Do not allow anything to protrude from the sliding sunroof. Otherwise, the seals could be damaged.

If the sliding sunroof cannot be opened or closed due to a malfunction, contact a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Page 91

Sliding sunroof

Do not forget that the weather can change abruptly. Make certain that the sliding sunroof is closed when you leave the vehicle. The vehicle electronics can be damaged if water enters the vehicle interior.

Resonance noises can occur in addition to the usual airflow noises when the sliding sunroof is open. They are caused by minor pressure fluctuations in the vehicle interior. Change the position of the sliding sunroof or open a side window slightly to reduce or eliminate these noises.

Operating the sliding sunroof

Opening and closing

You can still operate the tilt/sliding sunroof even if you switch off the engine or remove the SmartKey. This function remains active for five minutes or until one of the front doors is opened.

Overhead control panel

To raise

;

To open

To close

Switch on the ignition.

Push or pull the 2 switch in the corresponding direction.

If you press the 2 switch beyond the point of resistance, an automatic opening/ closing process is started in the

corresponding direction. You can stop automatic operation by pressing again.

Automatic opening/raising is only available if the tilt/sliding sunroof is in the closed position.

You can open/close the cover for the sunblind manually when the tilt/sliding sunroof is raised/closed.

Resetting

Reset the tilt/sliding sunroof if it does not open smoothly, or if the battery has been disconnected or has become discharged.

Contact a qualified specialist workshop if the tilt/sliding sunroof cannot be closed fully or reset.

Remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock or turn to position 0 (KEYLESS-GO).

Remove the fuse for the tilt/sliding sunroof from the main fuse box. To find out where the fuse is located, refer to the fuse allocation chart in the vehicle tool kit (Y page 298).

Reinsert the fuse.

Switch on the ignition.

Raise the tilt/sliding sunroof fully at the rear (Y page 89).

Keep the 2 switch pressed for another second.

Make sure that the tilt/sliding sunroof can be opened or closed fully again using the opening/closing process (Y page 89).

If the tilt/sliding sunroof can be raised fully at the rear it is set correctly. If this is not the case, you must repeat the previously described steps.

Problems with the sliding sunroof

Problem: the sunroof cannot be closed and you cannot see the cause.

Opening and closing

Page 92

Sliding sunroof

Warning!

You could be severely or even fatally injured when closing the sliding sunroof with increased closing force or if the antientrapment feature is deactivated. Make sure that nobody can become trapped when closing the sliding sunroof.

If the sliding sunroof is obstructed during closing:

Immediately after the sliding sunroof blocks, pull the 2 switch in the overhead control panel down to the point of resistance and hold it until the sliding sunroof is closed.

The sliding sunroof is closed with increased force.

Opening and closing

If the sliding sunroof is obstructed during closing again:

Immediately after the sliding sunroof blocks, pull the 2 switch in the overhead control panel down to the point of resistance and hold it until the sliding sunroof is closed. The sliding sunroof is closed without the anti-entrapment feature.

Warning!

Pressing and holding the sliding sunroof switch to close the sliding sunroof immediately after it had been blocked two times will cause the sliding sunroof to close without the anti-entrapment feature for as long as you hold the switch.

Page 93

Vehicle equipment .............................. 92

Correct driver's seat position ............ 92

Seats .................................................... 93

Steering wheel .................................... 99

Mirrors ............................................... 101

Memory functions ............................. 103

Seats, steering wheel and mirrors

Page 94

Correct driver's seat position

Vehicle equipment

Correct driver's seat position

Seats, steering wheel and mirrors

Observe the important safety notes on (Y page 93).

Check whether you have adjusted seat = properly.

Electrical seat adjustment (Y page 94) When adjusting the seat, make sure:

you are as far away from the driver's air bag as possible.

you are sitting in a normal upright position.

you can fasten the seat belt properly.

you have moved the backrest to an almost vertical position.

you have set the seat cushion angle so that your thighs are gently supported.

you can depress the pedals properly.

Check whether the head restraint is adjusted properly (Y page 95).

When doing so, make sure that you have adjusted the head restraint so that the back of your head is supported at eye level by the center of the head restraint.

Observe the important safety notes on (Y page 99).

Check whether steering wheel : is adjusted properly.

Adjusting the steering wheel manually(Y page 99)

Adjusting the steering wheel electrically (Y page 100)

When adjusting the steering wheel, make sure:

you can hold the steering wheel with your arms slightly bent.

you can move your legs freely.

you can see all the displays in the instrument cluster clearly.

Observe the important safety notes on (Y page 53).

Check whether you have fastened seat belt ; properly (Y page 55).

The seat belt should:

fit snugly across your body

be routed across the middle of your shoulder

be routed in your pelvic area across the hip joints

Before starting off, adjust the rear-view mirror and the exterior mirrors (Y page 101) in such a way that you have a good view of road and traffic conditions.

Vehicles with memory function: save the seat, steering wheel and exterior mirror settings (Y page 103).

Page 95

Seats

Important safety guidelines

Warning

In order to avoid possible loss of vehicle control, all seat, head restraint, steering wheel and rear view mirror adjustments, as well as fastening of seat belts, must be done before setting the vehicle in motion.

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 travel in a moving vehicle with the seat backrest in an excessively reclined position as this can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the seat belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. This could cause serious or fatal injuries. The seat backrest and seat belts provide the best restraint when the wearer is in a position that is as upright as possible and seat belts are properly positioned on the body.

Warning

Your seat belt must be adjusted so that you can correctly fasten your seat belt.

Observe the following points:

adjust the seat backrest until your arms are slightly angled when holding the steering wheel.

adjust the seat to a comfortable seating position that still allows you to reach the accelerator/brake pedal safely. The position should be as far back as possible with the driver still able to operate the controls properly.

adjust the head restraint so that it is as close to the head as possible and the center

of the head restraint supports the back of the head at eye level.

never place hands under the seat or near any moving parts while a seat is being adjusted.

Failure to do so could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Warning

The electrically adjustable seats can be operated at any time. Therefore, do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. A child's unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Warning!

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seats whenever possible. Regardless of seating position, children 12 years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriately sized infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. For additional information, see "Children in the vehicle".

Warning

For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints.

Seats, steering wheel and mirrors

Page 96

Seats

Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head restraints. Head restraints are intended to help reduce injuries during an accident.

To avoid damage to the seats and the seat heating, observe the following information:

do not spill any liquids on the seats. If liquid is spilled on the seats, dry them as soon as possible.

if the seat covers are damp or wet, do not switch on the seat heating. The seat heating should also not to be used to dry the seats.

clean the seat covers as recommended; see the " Interior care" section.

do not transport heavy loads on the seats. Do not place sharp objects on the seat cushions, e.g. knives, nails or tools. The seats should only be occupied by passengers, if possible.

when the seat heating is in operation, do not cover the seats with insulating materials, e.g. covers, bags, seat covers, child seats or booster seats.

When you move the seats, make sure that

Seats, steering wheel and mirrors

there are no objects in the footwell or behind the seats. Otherwise, you could damage the seats and the objects.

When the rear bench seat is folded forwards, the front seats cannot be moved to their rearmost position. You could otherwise damage the seats and the rear bench seat.

Make sure that the sun visor is folded up before adjusting the backrest and head restraint height. The head restraint and sun visor could otherwise collide when the head restraint is fully extended.

The rear-compartment head restraints can be removed (Y page 96).

Please contact an authorized MercedesBenz Center for more information.

Only for vehicles with the memory function.

i Related topics:

Cargo compartment enlargement (folding the rear bench seat forwards) (Y page 258)

Adjusting the seats

Vehicles without the memory function: the seats can be adjusted within five minutes of opening a front door.

The time span starts over if, within these five minutes, you:

open or close a front door

insert the key into or remove the key from the ignition lock

switch the ignition on or off.

If the key is in position 2 in the ignition, you can adjust the seats at any time.

Head restraint height

;

Backrest angle

Seat fore-and-aft adjustment

Seat cushion angle

Seat height

Vehicles with the memory function: if

PRE-SAFE® is triggered, the frontpassenger seat will be moved to a better position if it was previously in an unfavorable position.

You can store the seat settings using the memory function (Y page 103).

Page 97

Adjusting the head restraints

Adjusting the head restraints manually

Seats

Adjusting the head restraint height

The head restraints may only be removed

in a qualified specialist workshop. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you go to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If the head restraint is fully lowered, it is necessary to press release catch :.

To raise: pull the head restraint up to the desired position.

To lower: press release catch : in the direction of the arrow and push the head restraint down to the desired position.

Adjusting the angle of the head restraints

Warning!

Vehicles with Rear Seat Entertainment System: When adjusting the head restraint, make sure your fingers do not become caught between the head restraint cushion and the monitor. Failing to do so may lead to injury.

Push or pull the lower edge of the head restraint in the direction of the arrow.

Adjusting the head restraints electrically

To adjust the head restraint height: slide

the switch for head restraint adjustment (Y page 94) up or down in the direction of the arrow.

Adjusting the luxury head restraints

Warning!

When folding back the head restraint side bolsters, do not put your hands between the side bolster and the cushion holder. There is a danger of becoming trapped.

Seats, steering wheel and mirrors

For vehicles without memory function only.

Only for vehicles with memory function.

Only for Canada.

To adjust the side bolsters of the head restraint: push or pull right and/or left-

Page 98

Seats

hand side bolster : into the desired position.

To adjust the angle of the head restraint: push or pull the head restraint in

the direction of arrow ;.

Rear seat head restraints

Warning!

For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints.

Adjust the head restraint in such a way that it is as close to the head as possible and the center of the head restraint supports the back of the head at eye level. This will reduce the potential for injury to the head and neck in the event of an accident or similar situation.

With a rear seat occupied, make sure to move the respective head restraint up from the lowest non-use position and have the occupant adjust the head restraint properly.

Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head restraints installed when the rear seats are occupied. Head restraints are intended to help reduce injuries during an accident.

Adjusting the rear seat head restraint

Seats, steering wheel and mirrors

height

To lower: press release catch : and push the head restraint down until it is in the desired position.

Adjusting the rear seat head restraint angle

Adjust the head restraints so that they are as close as possible to your head.

You can only adjust the two outer head restraints.

Using both hands, reach backwards and grasp the sides of the head restraint.

Pull the lower edge of the head restraint forwards or backwards until it is in the desired position.

Removing and installing the rear head restraints

Warning!

Occupants should only travel sitting on seats which have the head restraints installed. In the event of an accident, this reduces the risk of injury for passengers seated in the rear compartment.

If the head restraint is fully lowered, it is necessary to press release catch :.

To raise: pull the head restraint up to the desired position.

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To remove: pull the head restraint up to the stop.

Press release catch : and pull the head restraint out of the guides.

To re-install: insert the head restraint so that the notches on the bar are on the left when viewed in the direction of travel.

Push the head restraint down until you hear it engage in position.

Adjusting the multicontour seat

You can adjust the contour of the front seats individually so as to provide optimum support for your back and sides.

Seats

Adjusting the four-way lumbar support

The lumbar support for the driver's seat can be individually adjusted to provide optimum support for your back.

To raise the backrest contour

;

To soften the backrest contour

To lower the backrest contour

To harden the backrest contour

Switching the seat heating on/off

Make sure that the key is in position 2 in the ignition lock.

Use switch : to move the thigh cushion into the desired position.

Press the W or X button to adjust the contour of the backrest to suit your back.

Press button ? to move the point of greatest backrest curvature downwards to the lumbar region and press button = to move it upwards to the upper back region.

Use button ; to adjust the side bolsters for optimal lateral support.

Switching on/off

Warning!

Repeatedly setting the seat heating to level 3 may result in excessive seat temperatures. The health of passengers that have limited temperature sensitivity or a limited ability to react to excessively high temperatures may be affected or they may even suffer burn-like injuries. Therefore, do not use seat heating level 3 repeatedly.

The three red indicator lamps in the button indicate the heating level you have selected.

If the battery voltage is too low, the seat

heating may switch off. One or several indicator lamps in the seat

heating button flash.

Seats, steering wheel and mirrors

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Seats

Driver's and front-passenger seat

Rear compartment seats

The system automatically switches down from level 3 to level 2 after approximately five minutes.

Seats, steering wheel and mirrors

The system automatically switches down from level 2 to level 1 after approximately ten minutes.

The system automatically switches off approximately 20 minutes after it is set to level 1.

Make sure that the key is in position 2 in the ignition lock.

To switch on: press button : repeatedly until the desired heating level is set.

To switch off: press button : repeatedly until all the indicator lamps go out.

Problems with the seat heating

If one or all of the indicator lamps in the seat heating button are flashing, the seat heating has switched off automatically. The vehicle's electrical system voltage is too low because too many electrical consumers are switched on.

Switch off electrical consumers which you do not need, such as the rear window defroster or interior lighting. Once the battery is sufficiently charged, the seat heating will switch back on automatically.

Switching the seat ventilation on/off

Switching on/off

The three blue indicator lamps in the buttons indicate the ventilation level you have selected.

If the battery voltage is too low, the seat ventilation may switch off.

Make sure that the key is in position 2 in the ignition lock.

To switch on: press button : repeatedly until the desired ventilation level is set.

You can open the side windows and the tilt/sliding sunroof with the key (Y page 86). The seat ventilation of the driver's seat automatically switches to the highest level.

Mercedes ML 63 AMG 2011 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Introduction

Product information

Operator's Manual

Notes on the Operator's Manual

Vehicle equipment

Service and vehicle operation

Service and literature

Information for customers in California

Maintenance

Roadside Assistance

Change of address or ownership

Vehicle operation outside the USA and Canada

Sport Utility Vehicle

Operating safety

Safety notes

Problems with your vehicle

Reporting malfunctions relevant to safety

Data stored in the vehicle

Information regarding electronic recording devices

Limited Warranty

Exterior view

At a glance

Cockpit

Instrument cluster

Overview

Warning and indicator lamps

Multifunction steering wheel

Center console

Overhead control panel

Door control panel

Occupant safety

Vehicle equipment

Safety

Overview of occupant safety

SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)

Air bags

Occupant classification system (OCS)

PRE-SAFE® system

NECK-PRO head restraints

Resetting triggered NECK-PRO head restraints

Seat belts

Children in the vehicle

Important safety guidelines

Child restraint systems

Child-proof locks

Panic alarm

Driving safety systems

Overview of driving safety systems

Important safety guidelines

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

BAS (Brake Assist)

ESP® (Electronic Stability Program)

Anti-theft systems

Distance warning function (vehicles with DISTRONIC)

Immobilizer

ATA (Anti-Theft Alarm system)

SmartKey

Vehicle equipment

Important safety guidelines

Opening and closing

General information

SmartKey functions

KEYLESS-GO

Changing the settings of the locking system

Mechanical key

Restoring the factory settings

SmartKey battery

Problems with the SmartKey

Doors

Important safety guidelines

Unlocking and opening doors from the inside

Centrally locking and unlocking the vehicle from the inside

Automatic locking

Cargo compartment

Unlocking the driver's door (mechanical key)

Locking the vehicle