Mercedes W140 1995, S 600 1995 User Manual

Mercedes-Benz

S500S6

00

Operator's Manual

1

Product information

Kindly observe the following in your own best interest:

We recommend using Mercedes-Benz original 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 their special suitability for Mercedes­Benz vehicles.

We are unable to make an assessment for other products and therefore cannot be held responsible for them, even if in individual cases
an official approval or authorization by governmental or other agencies should exist. Use of such parts and accessories could
adversely affect the safety, performance or reliability of your vehicle. Please do not use them. Mercedes-Benz original parts as well as
conversion parts and accessories approved by us are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center where you will receive
comprehensive information, also on permissible technical modifications, and where proper installation will be performed.

Our company and staff congratulate you on the purchase of your new Mercedes-Benz.

Your selection of our product is a demonstration of your trust in our company name. Further, it exemplifies your desire to own an
automobile that will be as easy as possible to operate and provide years of service.

Your Mercedes-Benz represents the efforts of many skilled engineers and craftsmen. To ensure your pleasure of ownership, and
for your safety and that of your passengers, we ask you to make a small investment of your time:

• Please read this manual carefully before putting it aside. Then return it to your vehicle where it will be handy for
your reference.

• Please abide by the recommendations contained in this manual. They are designed to acquaint you with the
operation of your Mercedes-Benz.

• Please abide by the warnings and cautions contained in this manual. They are designed to help improve the safety
of the vehicle operator and occupants.

We extend our best wishes for many miles of safe, pleasurable driving.

DaimlerChrysler AG

2

Operator's manual

This Operator's Manual contains a great deal of useful 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
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.

Your vehicle may have some or all of the equipment described in this manual. Therefore, you may find explanations for optional
equipment not installed in your vehicle. If you have any questions about the operation of any equipment, your authorized Mercedes­Benz Center will be glad to demonstrate the proper procedures.

Owner’s Service and Warranty Policy

The Owner’s Service and Warranty Information Booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering your
Mercedes-Benz, including:

• New Car Limited Warranty,

• Emission System Warranty,

• Emission Performance Warranty,

• State Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon Laws).

3

Important notice for California retail buyers of Mercedes-Benz automobiles

Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, if Mercedes-Benz USA,LLC
or its authorized Mercedes-Benz Center fails to conform the vehicle to its express warranties after a reasonable number of repair attempts
during the period of one year or 12 000 miles from original delivery of the vehicle. A reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed for
a retail buyer (1) if the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of substantial nonconformities for a cumulative total of more than 30
calendar days or (2) the same substantial non-conformity has been subject to repair four or more times and you have at least once

directly notified us in writing of the need to repair the non-conformity and have given us an opportunity to perform the repair
ourselves. Notifications should be sent to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Regional Office listed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet.

Maintenance

The Service Booklet describes all the necessary maintenance work which should be performed at regular intervals.

Always have the Service Booklet with you when you take the vehicle to your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for service.
The service advisor will record each service in the 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:

1-800-222-0100 (inthe USA) only

will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Client Assistance Representatives 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

For additional information refer to the Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program brochure in your glove box.

4

Change of address or ownership

If you change your address, be sure to send in the "Change of Address Notice" found in the Owner's Service
and Warranty Policy Booklet. It is in your own interest that we can contact you should the need arise.

If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all owner's literature with the vehicle to make it available to the next owner.

If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in the "Notice of Purchase of Used Car" found in the Owner's
Service and Warranty Policy Booklet.

Operating your vehicle outside the USA or 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.

Certain Mercedes-Benz models are available for delivery in Europe under our European Delivery Program.
For details, consult your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer or write to:

In the USA: In Canada:
Mercedes-Benz USA, Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc.
LLCEuropean Delivery Department European Delivery Department
One Mercedes Drive 849 Eglinton Avenue East
Montvale, NJ 07645 Toronto, Ontario M4G 2L5

5

We continuously strive to improve our product, and ask for your understanding that we reserve the right to make changes in design and
equipment. Therefore, information, illustrations and descriptions in this Operator's Manual might differ from your vehicle.

Optional equipment is also described in this manual, including operating instructions wherever necessary. Since they are special-order
items, the descriptions and illustrations herein may vary slightly from the actual equipment of your vehicle.

If there are any equipment details that are not shown or described in this Operator's Manual, your authorized Mercedes­Benz Center will be glad to inform you of correct care and operating procedures.

The Operator's Manual and Service Booklet are important documents and should be kept with the vehicle.

6

Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip

See Index

The First 1000 Miles (1500 km)

The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satisfied you will be with its
performance later on. Therefore, drive your vehicle during the first 1500 km (1000 miles) at moderate vehicle and
engine-speeds.
During this period, avoid heavy loads (full throttle driving) and high RPM (no more than 2/3 of maximum
permissible speed in each gear as indicated on the speedometer).
Avoid accelerating by kickdown. It is not recommended to brake the vehicle by manually shifting to a lower gear.
We recommend to select positions "3" or "2"only at moderate speeds (for hill driving).

After 1000 miles (1500 km) speeds may be gradually increased to the permissible maximum

Maintenance

We strongly recommend that you have your vehicle serviced by your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer, in
accordance with the Maintenance Booklet.

Radio Transmitters

Warning!
Never operate radio transmitters equipped with a built-in or attached antenna (i.e. without the telephone
connected to an external antenna) from inside the vehicle while the engine is running. Doing so could lead
to a malfunction of the vehicle's electronic system, possibly resulting in an accident and personal injury.

Radio transmitters, such as a portable telephone or a citicens band unit should only be used inside
the passenger compartment, if they are connected to a Mercedes-Benz approved antenna that is
installed on the outside of the vehicle.

7

Introduction

27

Product information
Operator's manual
Consumer Information
Problems with your vehicle
Reporting Safety Defects
Index

Instruments and controls

Instrument Cluster
Indicator Lamp Symbols
Catalytic Converter
Starting and Turning Off the Engine
Driving Instructions

Operation

Air Outlets
Automatic Climate Control
Rear passenger compartment
Adjustable Air outlet
Activated Charcoal Control
Car keys
Infrared Remote Control
Central Locking system
Doors
Trunk
Power window and sliding/Pop-Up roof

Power closing assist for door and

trunk lid

2 Anti-Theft Alarm System 36 Trunk Lid Release switch 69
4 Power Seats 37 Instrument Lamps 70
139 Lumbar support 40 Display Illumination 70
140 Multicontour Backrest 40 Trip Odometer 70
141 Heated Seats 41 Clock 70

Power head Restraints, Rear

144
10 Armrest, Front

Armrest, Rear

12 Adjustable steering wheel 44

Seat belts and Supplemental restraint

13

system (SRS)

14
15 Seat belts 45
16 Emergencytensioning retractor(ETR) 49 Drinking and driving 74

Airbag
Steering lock

Combination Switch

22 Exterior Lamp Switch 58 Rear fender indicator 78
23 Inside and exterior Rear View Mirrors 59 Cruise Control 78

Sun Visors 62 Charge Indicator Lamp 80

27 Vanity mirrors 62 Engine Oil Pressure Gauge 80
28 Interior Lighting 63

Storage Compartments

29

Ashtrays

32
32 Lighter 65 Tachometer 81
33 Sliding roof with rear pop-up feature 66 Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp 82
34 Power Windows 67 Outside Temperature Indicator 82

35 Rear Window Sunshade 68

Rear Window Defroster 69

42 Shelf below rear window 71
43 Antenna 71

43 Cellular telephone 71

Driving

45

50 Parking Brake 74
55 Driving off 74
56

Automatic Transmission

Low Engine Oil Level Warning Lamp

64 Engine Oil Consumption 81
65 Fuel Consumption Gauge 81

75

80

8

Coolant Temperature Gauge 82

Level

Low Windshield and Headlamp
Washer Fluid Level Warning Lamp 83

Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator Lamp 84 First Aid Kit 98

Checking Automatic Trans. Fluid

97 Emergency Operation of Sliding Roof 123

Trunk Lamp 98 Roof rack 124
Spare Wheel, lug wrench 98 Layout of Poly-V-Belt Drive 124

MERCEDES-BENZ

125

Spare Parts Service

Seat Belt and Lock Warning Lamp
Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp

84 Stowing Things in the Vehicle 98
84 Vehicle Jack 99

Technical Data. Fuels,

Coolants, Lubricants etc.

Consumer Information

Brake Warning Lamp
ABS (Antilock Brake System)
Warning Lamp

85 Vehicle Tools 99

Storage compartment below vehicle

86

tool box

99 Identification Plates 128

Acceleration slip control (ASR) 87 Wheels 100 Vehicle Data Card 129
Driving with snow chains 88 Changing Wheels 102 Warranty Coverage 129
Adaptive damping system (ADS) 89 Tire in Inflation Pressure 105 Technical Data

500 S 130

Emission Control 90 Battery 106 600 S 130

On-Board Diagnostic System
Traveling Abroad
Winter Driving
Snow Chains

90 Exterior Lamps 107 Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants etc. 134
91 Fuses 111 Capacities 134
91 Jump Starting 112 Engine Oils 136
91 Towing the Vehicle 114 Engine Oils Additives 136

Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle 115 Air Conditioner Refrigerant 136

Practical Hints

Testing Infrared Remote Control

119 Brake Fluid 136

Front Head Restraints 120 Premium Unleaded Gasoline 136
Hood 94 Rear Seat Cushion 121 Fuel Requirements 137
Checking Coolant Level 95 Manual Closing of Trunk Lid 121 Gasoline Additives 137
Adding Coolant 95 Manual Release of Fuel Filler Flap 121 Coolants 138
Checking Engine Oil Level 96 Replacing Wiper Blades 122

Check regularly and before a long trip

148

9

Instruments and Controls For more detailed descriptions see specified pages

Adjustable air outlet

1

Exterior lamp switch

2

Parking brake release

3

Hood lock release

4

Parking brake pedal

5

Steering wheel adjustment switch

6

Combination switch

7

Cruise control

8

Horn, airbag

9

Instrument cluster

10

Steering lock with ignition/starter switch

11

Adjustable air outlet

12

Heated air supply button - center air outlet

13

Non heated/cooled air supply button - center air outlet

14

Air volume control for left air outlet

15

Air volume control for left center air outlet

16

Air volume control for center air outlet

17

Air volume control for right air outlet

18

Storage/eyeglasses compartment

19

Lock for storage/eyeglasses compartment and eye glove

20

Glove box (illuminated with key in steering lock position 2)

21

Rear window defroster switch

22

Activated charcoal filter switch

23

Central locking switch, Indicator lamp for anti-theft alarm

24

Hazard warning flasher switch

25

Trunk lid release switch

26

Automatic climate control

27

Radio

28

Snow chain switch

29

Ashtray with lighter

30

Adaptive damping system adjustment switch

31

Seat heater switch

32

Mirror adjustment switch

33

Power window switch

34

Switch for rear seat head restraints

35

Seat belt extender

36

Switch for rear window sunshade

37

10

11

Instrument Cluster

Fuel gauge with reserve warning lamp (yellow). See Index

1

Coolant temperature gauge. See Index

2

Fuel consumption gauge. See Index

3

Engine oil pressure gauge (bar). See Index

4

Left turn signal indicator lamp (green). See Index

5

Knob for instrument lamps and trip odometer.

6

Speedometer

7

ASR function indicator lamp (yellow). See Index

8

Trip odometer. See Index

9

Main odometer. See Index

10

Outside temperature indicator. See Index

11

Right turn signal indicator lamp (green) See Index

12

Knob for setting clock. See Index

13

Tachometer. See Index

14

Clock. See Index

15

12

Indicator Lamp Symbols
Function Indicator Lamp

High beam

Warning Lamp

(should go out with the engine running unless)

Battery not being charged properly. See Index Brake pads worn down. See Index.

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

Coolant level low. See Index. Brake fluid low (Canada only).

Engine oil level low. See Index. SRS malfunction. See Index.

Exterior lamp failure. See Index. Fasten seat belts. See Index.

ADS malfunction. See Index. Engine malfunction.

ASR malfunction. See Index

ABS malfunction. See Index.

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

Parking brake engaged. See Index.

If the lamp comes on when the engine is running, it
indicates a malfunction of the 02-sensor on Federal
version vehicles, and fuel injection system or
emission control system on the California version
vehicles. In either case, we recommend that you
have the malfunction checked as soon as possible.
See Index.

13

Catalytic Converter

Caution!

Warning!

Your MERCEDES-BENZ is equipped
with monolithic type catalytic
converters, an important element in
conjunction with the O2sensor to
achieve substantial control of the
pollutants in the exhaust emissions.
Keep your vehicle in proper operating
condition by following our
recommended maintenance instructions
as outlined in your Maintenance
Booklet.

To prevent damage to the catalytic
converters, use only premium unleaded
gasoline in this vehicle.

Any noticeable irregularities in engine
operation should be repaired promptly.
Otherwise, excessive unburned fuel
may reach the catalytic converter
causing it to overheat.

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

14

Starting and Turning off the Engine

transmissions). Turn key in steering lock

Hot Engine

Important!

Starter Lock-Out
Important!

The engine can only be started, if the
vehicle was unlocked from the outside.

Before Starting

Engage parking brake and move
gearshift lever to neutral (selector lever
position "P" on automatic

to position 2. The charge indicator lamp
should come on.

Cold Engine

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

Turn key in steering lock clockwise to
the stop. Do not depress accelerator. If
the engine has not fired after approx. 4
seconds, depress accelerator and
continue cranking until the engine is
firing regularly. Release key and back
off accelerator.

At very high coolant temperatures the
engine starting time can be shortened if
the accelerator is depressed slowly at
the beginning of the starting process.

Turning Off

Turn the key in the steering lock to
position 0 to stop the engine.

The key can only be removed with the
selector lever in position "P".

If the coolant temperature is very high
(e.g. after hard driving on mountain
roads), do not shut off the engine
immediately, but allow it to run for 1-2
minutes at increased idle speed with
selector lever in position "P" or "N".

Due to the installed starter non-repeat
feature, the key must be turned
completely to the left before attempting
to start the engine again.

Observe the oil pressure gauge
immediately after starting the engine.
In a very cold engine the oil pressure
will rise slowly after the engine has
started. Do not speed up the engine
before pressure is registered on the
pressure gauge.

The charge indicator lamp should go
out as soon as the engine has started.

In areas where temperatures
frequently drop below -25°C (-13°F)
we recommend that an engine block
heater be installed. Your authorized
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer will advise
you on this subject.

15

Driving Instructions

Power Assistance

Warning!

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

Brakes

Caution!

When driving down long and steep
grades, relieve the load on the brakes
by shifting into "3", "2" or "B". This
helps prevent overheating of the brakes
and reduces brake pad wear. Do not
exceed engine speed limits. Refer to
Technical Data for downshift points.

After hard braking, it is advisable to
drive on for some time, rather than
immediately parking, so the air stream
will cool down the brakes faster.

Warning!

After driving in heavy rain for some
time without applying the brakes or
through water deep enough to wet
brake components, the first braking
action may be somewhat reduced
and increased pedal pressure may be
necessary. Be sure to maintain a safe
distance from vehicles in front.

Resting your foot on the brake pedal
will cause excessive and premature
wear of the brake pads.

It can also result in the brakes
overheating thereby significantly
reducing their effectiveness. It may
not be possible to stop the car in
sufficient time to avoid an accident.

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

All checks and maintenance work on
the brake system should be carried out
by an authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
dealer.

If the parking brake is released and the
brake warning lamp in the instrument
cluster stays on, the brake fluid level in
the reservoir is too low.

Brake pad wear or a leak in the system
may be the reason for low brake fluid
in the reservoir.

Have the brake system inspected at an
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer
immediately.

Install only brake pads and brake fluid
recommended by Mercedes-Benz.

Warning!

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

16

Tires

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

The tread wear indicator appears as a
solid band across the tread.

Warning!

Do not allow your tires to wear down
too far. As tread depth approaches

1

/16in (1.5 mm), t he adhesion
propert ies on a wet road are
sharply reduced.
Depending upon the weather
and/or road surface (conditions),
the tire traction varies widely.

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

Warning!

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

17

Aquaplaning

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

Tire Traction

The safe speed on a wet, snow covered
or icy road is always lower than on a
dry road.

You should pay particular attention to
the condition of the road as soon as the
prevailing temperatures fall close to the
freezing point.

Warning!

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

We recommend M + S radial-ply tires
for the winter season for all four
wheels to insure normal balanced
handling characteristics.

On packed snow, they can reduce your
stopping distance as compared with
summer tires. Stopping distance,
however, is still considerably greater
than when the road is wet or dry.

Tire Speed Rating

If your vehicle is factory equipped with
"H"-rated tires, which have a European
speed rating of 130 mph (210 km/h), an
electronic speed limiter prevents your
vehicle from exceeding the speed
rating.
Despite the tire rating, local speed
limits should be obeyed. Use prudent
driving speeds appropriate to
prevailing conditions.

Warning!

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

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

Parking

Warning!

To reduce the risk of personal injury
as a result of vehicle movement,
before turning off the engine and
leaving the vehicle always:

1. Keep foot on brake pedal.

2. Firmly depress parking
brake pedal.

3. Engage first or reverse
gear (selector lever position "P"
in the case of automatic
transmissions).

4. Slowly release brake pedal.

5. Turn front wheels towards
the road curb,

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

Important!

It is advisable to set the parking brake
whenever parking or leaving the
vehicle. In addition, engage first or
reverse gear (selector lever position
"P").
When parking on hills, always set the
parking brake.

18

Winter Driving Instructions

The most important rule for slippery or
icy roads is to drive sensibly and to
avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and
steering action. Do not use the cruise
control system under such conditions.
When the vehicle is in danger of
skidding, declutch, or in case of
automatic transmission move selector
lever to position "N". Try to keep the
vehicle under control by corrective
steering action.

Road salts and chemicals can adversely
affect braking efficiency. Increased
pedal force may become necessary to
produce the normal brake effect. We
therefore recommend depressing the
brake pedal repeatedly when traveling
on salt-strewn roads at length. This can
bring road salt impaired braking
efficiency back to normal. A
prerequisite is, however, that this is
possible without endangering other
drivers on the road.

If the vehicle is parked after being
driven on salt treated roads, the braking
efficiency should be tested as soon as
possible after driving is resumed while
observing the safety rules in the
previous paragraph.

Warning!

If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow,
make sure that snow is kept clear of
the exhaust pipe and from around
the vehicle with engine running.
Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide
(CO) gases may enter vehicle interior
resulting in unconsciousness and
death.

To assure sufficient fresh air
ventilation, open a window slightly
on the side of the car that is out of
the wind.

Passenger Compartment

Warning!

Always fasten items being carried as
securely as possible.

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

19

20

Operation

21

Air Outlets

1 Air volume control

for left air outlet,
turn left to open

2 Air volume control

for left center air outlet, turn left to
open

3 Air volume control.

for right center air outlet, turn left to
open

4 Air volume control

for right air outlet,
turn left to open

5 Left center air outlet,

adjustable

6 Right center air outlet,

adjustable

7 Side air outlet, left and right,

adjustable

Push-buttons for center air
Outlets

8 Heated air supply

(red indicator)

9 Non-heated/cooled air supply

(blue indicator)

Basic mode:
None of the push-buttons (8 or 9)
is pressed.

Dust Filter

Dust particles (down to a certain size)
and pollen are filtered out before
outside air enters the passenger
compartment through the air
distribution system.

Notes:

Do not obstruct the air flow by placing
objects on the air flow-through exhaust
slots below the rear window.

Also keep the air intake grille in front
of windshield free of snow and debris.

22

Automatic Climate Control

Left side passenger compartment:

1 Temperature selector

2 Temperature display

3 Automatic mode

4 Air distribution buttons

5 Defrost

6 Residual engine heat

utilization

7 Air recirculation

8 Air volume selector

9 Economy

10 Selection switch

11 Off

Right side passenger
compartment:

12 Temperature selector

13 Temperature display

14 Automatic mode

15 Air distribution buttons

23

The temperature selected with the
temperature selector is reached as
quickly as possible.

The temperature selector should be left

at the desired temperature setting.
With the center air outlets open and the
system in heating mode, switch the
outlets to non-heated/ cooled air by
pressing the blue button (indicator lamp
lights up).

With the center air outlets open and the
system in cooling mode, switch the
outlets to non-heated/ fresh air by
pressing the red button (indicator lamp
lights up).

The system will not heat or cool any
quicker by setting a higher or lower
temperature.

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

1, 12 Temperature Selector

The desired interior temperature can be
selected separately for the left and right
side of the passenger compartment.
A basic setting in the white field of the
selector is recommended, and can be
used for driving year round.
The selected temperature can be shown
in the display window (2) in either °F
or °C.

3, 14 Automatic Mode

This is the normal setting.
Air volume and distribution are
controlled automatically.

To select: Press button
(indicator lamp lights up).

To change selection:

Press , , , or

button (indicator lamp of selected
button lights up). The indicator lamp
for button goes out.

Note:

If the Automatic Climate Control is in
the "Diagnosis Mode", turn key in
steering lock to position 0 to return it
to its normal operation.

5 Defrost

Maximum heated and automatically
controlled amount of air is directed to
the windshield and side windows.
As the engine coolant temperature
increases, the air volume is
automatically increased, thereby
defrosting as quickly as possible.
Open and direct air outlets (7) towards
the side windows.

Note:
Press once again to return to
previous setting.

Defogging Windows

Switch off , or switch on (left
and right side), or switch on

Note:

To quickly defog the inside of the
windshield, select the largest air
volume and air distribution button .

24

6. Residual Engine Heat
Utilization

With the engine switched off, it is
possible to continue heating the
interior for a short while.

Air volume and distribution are
controlled automatically.

To select:

Turn key in steering lock to position 1
or 0 or remove key. Press button
(indicator lamp lights up). This
function selection will not activate if
the engine coolant temperature is
below 40°C (105°F) or if the battery
charge is insufficient.

To cancel:

• Press button

(indicator lamp goes out).

• Turn key in steering lock to

position 2.

• Automatically shuts off after

approx. 30 minutes.

• The system will automatically
shut off

• after approx. 30 minutes,

• if the engine coolant temperature

drops below 122°F (50 °C),

• if the battery voltage drops.

7 Air Recirculation

Outside air is not supplied to the car's
interior.

This mode can be selected to prevent
annoying odors or dust from entering
the car's interior.

To select: Press button
(indicator lamp lights up).

To cancel:
Press button (indicator lamp
goes out).

The system will automatically
switch from recirculated air to fresh
air if button is pressed

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

• after approx. 20 minutes, at
outside temperatures above
approx. 40°F(5°C).

If button is pressed: after
approx. 5 minutes.

Notes:

If the windows should fog up from the
inside, switch from recirculated air back
to fresh air.

At high outside temperatures, the
system automatically engages the
recirculated air mode thereby
increasing the cooling capacity
performance, switching to partially fresh
air within 20 minutes.

25

8 Air Volume Selector

9 Economy

11 Off

The air volume is automatically
regulated in

AUTO = Normal setting

and all intermediate positions, except
when selecting

MIN = minimum air flow,
MAX = maximum air flow.

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

The fresh air supply to the car interior
is shut off.

While driving, use this setting only
temporarily, otherwise the windshield
could fog up.

Important!

This vehicle is equipped with an air
conditioner system that uses HFC­134a (ozone-friendly hydro­fluorocarbon) as a refrigerant.
Repairs should always be performed
by a qualified technician, and
refrigerant should be collected in a
recovery system for recycling.

26

An activated charcoal filter markedly
reduces bad odors and removes
pollutants from the air entering the
passenger compartment.
When pressing button or , the
filter is also switched off.

Note:

The activated charcoal filter should be
switched off when windows fog up on
the inside, or if the passenger
compartment needs to be quickly
heated up or cooled down.

Rear Passenger Compartment
Climate Control

Slide switch (1) up to open outlet for
fresh/cooled air only.

Activated Charcoal Filter

1 Switch on
2 Switch off

27

Car Keys

Master Key

Notes:

Included with your vehicle are

• 2 Master keys with infrared
remote control

• 1 Master key

• 1 Valet key

• 1 Flat key

Infrared Remote Control with
Folding Master Key

The master key fits all locks on the car.

To release the key, press button (1).
The key unfolds from the holder by
itself.

The transmitter for the infrared remote
control is located in the key holder, the
receivers are located in the door
handles and next to the trunk lock.

The master key fits all locks on the car.

Valet Key

The valet key fits only the door locks
and the steering lock.

The valet key will not fit the trunk
lock or storage compartment
eyeglasses compartment lock in the
dashboard.

Flat Key

The flat key fits all locks on the car.

Do not give the master key to an
unauthorized person.

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

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle always
remove the key from the steering
lock. Do not leave children
unattended in the vehicle.
Unsupervised use of vehicle
equipment may cause serious
personal injury.

Obtaining Replacement Keys

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

28

Infrared Remote Control
Starter Lock-Out Important!

Locking the vehicle activates the starter
lock-out.

The engine can only be started, if the
vehicle was unlocked from the outside.

1 Transmit button
2 Transmitter eye and battery check

The vehicle can be centrally locked and
unlocked, as well as the windows and
sliding roof closed with infrared remote
control.

The transmitter is located in the key
holder, the receivers are located in the
door handles and next to the trunk
lock.

3 Receiver in door handle

Unlocking:

Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver
(3) and press transmit button (1).
Distance to receiver max. 20 ft (6 m).

The green indicator lamps on the
receivers should blink. They stop
blinking when the vehicle is unlocked.

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

29

Locking:

Notes:

3 Receiver next to trunk lock

Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver
(3) and press transmit button (1).
Distance to receiver max. 20 ft (6 m).

The red indicator lamp on the receiver
should blink. It stops blinking after
approximately 3 seconds when the
vehicle is properly locked.

If a door or the trunk is not properly
closed after you attempt to lock the
vehicle by remote control, the red
indicator lamps will continue to blink
(max. 10 seconds). Open the door or
trunk lid, close it properly, and' lock
the car again.

If the vehicle cannot be locked or
unlocked by pressing the transmit
button (1), then it may be necessary to
change the batteries in the transmitter
(if ok, battery indicator lamp in
transmitter will light when
transmitting) or to synchronize the
system, see Testing Infrared Remote
Control in Index.

30

Closing Windows and Sliding/ Pop­Up Roof from Outside

Continue to press transmit button (1)
after locking car. Distance to receiver
max. 20 ft. (6 m).

The windows and sliding/pop-up roof
begin to close after approx. 1 second.

Warning!

Never close the windows or
sliding/pop-up roof if there is the
possibility of anyone being harmed
by the closing procedure.

In case the closing procedure causes
potential danger, the closing
procedure can be immediately
reversed by releasing and pressing
the remote control button again until
the green indicator lamp at the
receiver blinks. The sliding/pop-up
roof and windows will open again.
The sliding/pop-up roof will only
open if it was not fully closed.

Note:

If the side windows and sliding/ pop­up roof cannot be closed automatically
by using the key or by pressing the
transmit button of the infrared remote
control (e.g. after a battery change),
press side of power window
switch in center console until the
window is completely closed and hold
for additional 2 seconds. Repeat
procedure for each window.

The automatic closing procedure of the
windows and sliding/pop-up roof
should now be restored.

31

Central Locking System

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

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

Starter Lock-Out
Important!

Locking the vehicle activates the starter
lock-out.

The engine can only be started, if the
vehicle was unlocked from the outside.

Doors

1 Opening - pull handle
2 Unlocking
3 Locking
4 Individual door from inside:

• Push lock button down to lock.

• Pull lock button up to unlock.

32

When you lock the car, all door lock
buttons should move down. If any one
stays up, the respective door is not
properly closed.

You should then unlock the car, open
and reclose this door, and lock the car
again. Each individual door can be
locked with door lock button - the
driver's door can only be locked when
it is closed.

Notes:

In case of a malfunction in the central
locking system the doors and trunk can
be locked and unlocked individually.

To lock, turn key to position 3 or push
down lock buttons.

To unlock, turn key to position 2 or
pull up lock buttons.

The doors can only be locked with the
central locking switch, if the front
doors are closed.

The doors cannot be unlocked with the
central locking switch, if car was
previously locked from outside.

When opening a front door, the entire
car is unlocked, if it was previously
locked with the central locking switch.

If the car has previously been locked
from the outside, only the door being
opened from the inside will unlock, the
remaining doors, the trunk lid and fuel
filler flap remain locked.

Trunk

1 Neutral position - push to open
2 Unlocking
3 Locking (detent)
4 Separate locking of trunk -

remove key in this position.

When the trunk is separately locked,
it remains locked when unlocking any
door.

To deny any unauthorized person
access to the trunk, lock it separately.
Leave only the valet key with the
vehicle.

The trunk lid can be lowered by using
the recessed grips in the trunk lid liner,
and closed with the dirt-free retracting
handle.

If the trunk lid cannot be closed, refer
to Trunk Lid, Manual Closing
(see Index).

33

Warning!

Never close the windows or
siding/pop-up roof if there is the
possiblity of anyone being harmed by
the closing procedure.

In case the closing procedure causes
potential danger, the closing
procedure can be immediately
reversed by turning the key to the
unlocking position (3) within 10
seconds. The sliding/pop-up roof and
windows will open again. The
sliding/pop-up roof will only open if
it was not fully closed.

Door lock, left and
trunk lock

Power Windows and Sliding/
Pop-Up Roof

1 Closing
2 Interrupting
3 Opening

Door lock, right

When locking doors or trunk, turn key
in door lock or trunk lock to position 1
and hold. The windows and the
sliding/pop-up roof begin to close
automatically after approximately 1
second.

To interrupt the closing procedure, turn
key to position 2.

Note:

If the closing procedure is interrupted,
it can only be continued by first turning
the key to the unlocked position (3) and
then again to the locking position (1)
and hold.

34

Power Closing Assist for Doors and
Trunk Lid

The doors and trunk lid close
automatically if:

• doors are pushed against the lock,

• trunk lid is lowered against the lock.

Note:

If the trunk lid does not close, refer to
Trunk Lid, Manual Closing in Index.

Warning!

To prevent possible personal injury,
always keep hands and fingers away
from the door or trunk opening
when closing a door or the trunk
lid. Be especially careful when small
children are around.

It is not necessary to slam doors or
trunk li d closed, a pneumatic power­assisted mechanism will latch doors
and trunk lid quietly and automatically
once the lid or door has been brought
to a close. When the pneumatic power­assisted mechanism has stopped,
doors and/or trunk can be reopened.

The pneumatic power closing assist
mechanism cannot be interrupted
once it has been engaged.

To prevent personal injury, never
activate the closing assist
mechanism by tampering with the
door or trunk lid latch.

35

1 Indicator lamp in switch located in

center console

Anti-Theft Alarm System

The anti-theft alarm is automatically
armed or disarmed with any of your
vehicle's keys or infrared remote
control by locking or unlocking either
front door or the trunk.

A blinking lamp (1) indicates that the
alarm is armed.

The anti-theft alarm is disarmed when
unlocking either front door or the trunk
with any of your vehicle's keys or
infrared remote control.

Operation:

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

• opens a door,

• opens the trunk,

• opens the hood,

• removes the radio,

• switches on or bridges the
ignition circuit,

• steps on the brake pedal,

The alarm will last approximately 150
seconds in the form of blinking
exterior lamps. At the same time an
alarm horn will sound intermittently
for 60 seconds, pause for 30 seconds,
and repeat for another 60 seconds.
The alarm will stay on even if the
activating element (a door, for
example) is immediately closed.

Note:

We recommend that you carry the flat
key safely with you so that it is always
handy. The flat key has the same
functions as the master key.

36

Seat and head restraint adjustment:

Warning!

Power Seats, Front

The slide switches are located in each
front door.

Turn key in steering lock to position 1
or 2 (with the driver's or front
passenger's door open, the power
seats can also be operated with the key
removed or in steering lock position 0).

A Seat, fore/aft, up/down

B Seat tilt

C Seat cushion depth

D Backrest tilt

E Head restraint Adjust head restraint

to support the back of the head
approximately at ear level. The head
restraint inclination can also be
adjusted manually.

Note:

Your car is equipped with power
head restraints, do not try to raise
or lower them manually.

Do not adjust the driver's seat while
driving. Adjusting the seat while
driving could cause the driver to lose
control of the vehicle.

Never ride in a moving vehicle with
the seat back reclined. Sitting in an
excessively reclined position can be
dangerous. You could slide under
the seat belt in a collision. If you side
under it, the belt would apply force
at the abdomen or neck. That could
cause serious or even fatal injuries.
The seat back and seat belts provide
the best restraint when the wearer is
in an upright position and belts are
properly positioned on the body.

Never place hands under seat or
near any moving parts while a seat is
being adjusted.

37

Storing seat/head restraint/ steering
wheel/exterior and inside rear view
mirror positions in memory:

Recalling seat/head restraint/ steering
wheel/exterior and inside rear view
mirror positions stored in memory:

F Memory button

G Position buttons

Three sets of seat/head restraint/
steering wheel/exterior and inside rear
view mirror positions may be
programmed into memory. After the
seat/head restraint/steering wheel/
exterior and inside rear view mirrors
are positioned, push memory button F,
release, and within 3 seconds push
position button "1". A second and third
set of positions for the same seat/ head
restraint/steering wheel/ exterior and
inside rear view mirrors can be
programmed into memory by pushing
first button "F" and then "2",
respectively "3".

Note:

See Index for instructions on
adjustment of steering wheel and
mirrors.

To recall a seat/head restraint/ steering
wheel/exterior and inside rear view
mirror position, push and hold position
button "1", "2" or "3" until seat/head
restraint/ steering wheel/exterior and
inside rear view mirror movement has
stopped. The seat/head restraint/
steering wheel/exterior and inside rear
view mirror movement stops when the
position button is released.

Caution!

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

38

Important!

Bring seat backrest to upright position
before recalling a stored seat/head
restraint/steering wheel/exterior and
inside rear view mirror position,
otherwise the front seats could get
forced against a rear seat and be
damaged.

Prior to operating the vehicle, the
driver should adjust the seat height for
proper vision as well as fore/aft
placement and seat back angle to insure
adequate control, reach, operation, and
comfort. The head restraint should also
be adjusted for proper height.

Both the inside and outside rear view
mirrors should be adjusted for adequate
rearward vision. Fasten seat belts.
Infants and small children should be
seated in a properly secured restraint
system that complies with U.S. Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and
Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard 213.1.

All seat, head restraint, and rear view
mirror adjustments as well as fastening
of seat belts should be done before the
vehicle is put into motion.

Backrest lock

1 Release button

When a door is open, the backrests can
be folded forward without pushing the
button.

With doors closed and key in steering
lock position 2 the backrests are
locked.

The lock can be released by pushing
button (1).

Entering Rear Passenger
Compartment

With the door open, fold front seat
backrest forward. Automatically the
seat will slide forward and the head
restraint move down.

When folding the seat backrest back,
seat and head restraint return to their
previous positions.

To interrupt the automatic process,
activate the power seat switch.

Warning!

Never place hands under seat or
near any moving parts during the
seat adjustment procedure.

39

regulator (1) setting.

The amount of cushion height and

curvature may be adjusted after turning
the key in steering lock to position 2.

The center section (2) can be
selected together with bottom
section (1) or top section (3).

The inflation pressure of the air
cushion can be continuously varied
between position "0" = without
pressure, and position "5" = maximum
pressure, by changing the pressure
regulator (4) setting.

Lumbar Support

1 Pressure regulator

The seats have an inflatable air cushion
built into the backrest to provide
additional lumbar support.

The inflation pressure of the air
cushion can be continuously varied
between position "0" = without
pressure, and position "5" = maximum
pressure, by changing the pressure

Multicontour Backrest

1 Bottom
2 Center
3 Top
4 Pressure regulator
5 Side bolster adjustment

Some models may be equipped with
orthopedic seats. These seats have
inflatable air cushions built into the
backrest to provide additional lumbar
and side support.

The side bolsters of the backrest can be
adjusted with push button (5):

• pushing forward ­increase side support,

• pushing backward ­decrease side support.

If the engine is turned off, the last
cushion setting is retained in memory,
and automatically adjusts the cushion
to this setting when the engine is
restarted.

40

Heated Seats

The front seat heaters can be switched

Note:

The front seat heater switches are
located to the left and right side of the
center console ashtray.

on with the key in steering lock
positions 1 or 2, the rear seat heaters
only in steering lock position 2.
Press switch to turn on heater:

1 Normal heating mode. One

indicator lamp in the switch
lights up.

2 Rapid heating mode. Both

indicator lamps in the switch
light up.
After approximately 5 minutes in
the rapid heating mode, the heater
automatically switches to normal
operation and only one indicator
lamp will stay on.

Turning off heater:

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

When in operation, the seat heater
consumes a large amount of power. It
is advisable not to use the seat heater
longer than necessary.

The seat heaters may automatically
switch off if too many power
consumers are switched on at the same
time, or if the battery charge is low.
When this occurs, the indicator lamp in
the switch will blink (both indicator
lamps blink during rapid seat heating).
The seat heaters will switch on again
automatically as soon as sufficient
voltage is available.

If the blinking of the indicator lamps is
distracting to you, the seat heaters can
be switched off.

41

adjusted manually.

Important!

For safety reasons, always drive with
the rear head restraints in the upright
position when the rear seats are
occupied.

Keep area around head restraints clear
of articles (e.g. clothing) to not obstruct
the folding operation of the head
restraints.

Switches in center consoles

Power Head Restraints, Rear

Turn key in steering lock to position 1
or 2 (with the driver's or passenger's
door open, the power head restraints
can also be operated with the key
removed or in steering lock position 0).

Activate switch:

1 Place head restraint upright.

2 Fold head restraint backward.

Switch in front center console:

Both head restraints together can be
placed in either upright or fold-down
position.

Switches in rear center console:

The head restraints can be placed
individually in either upright or fold­down position.

Inclination of head restraints:
The head restraint inclination can be

42

Armrest with Compartment
for Telephone Handset

(Front Seats)

Press button (4) to open cover

Warning!

Armrest (Rear Seats)

Pull down the armrest by its strap.

1 Armrest folded down
2 Normal use

(3 comfort positions)

3 Armrest folded up

Folding down:
Raise armrest past top comfort position
and push down.

Adjusting height:
Raise armrest to desired position.

The armrest does not suffice as a
child restraint system. In case of a
frontal collision a child can be
catapulted forward over the locked
armrest. Infants and small children
should always be seated in a
properly secured restraint system
that complies with U.S. Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213
and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard 213.1.

For the removal of the Rear Seat
Cushion , see Index.

43

Adjustable Steering Wheel

Turn key in steering lock to position 1

Note:

or 2 (with the driver's or front
passenger's door open, the steering
wheel can also be operated with the
key removed or in steering lock
position 0).

The steering wheel position can be
stored in memory together with the
seat/head restraint/exterior and inside
rear view mirror positions, see Index.

Warning!

To lengthen or shorten the steering
column, push in or pull out switch (1).
To raise or lower steering wheel, push
switch (1) up or down.

Do not adjust the steering wheel
while driving. Adjusting the steering
wheel while driving could cause the
driver to lose control of the vehicle.

44

Seat Belts and Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS)

Your vehicle is equipped with lap­shoulder seat belts, emergency
tensioning retractors for the seat belts,
driver airbag and knee bolster and
passenger airbag and knee bolster.

Seat Belts

Important!

Laws in most states and all Canadian
provinces require seat belt use.
All states and provinces require use of
child restraints that comply with U.S.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard
213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard 213.1.

We strongly recommend their use.

Warning!

Never ride in a moving vehicle with
the seat back reclined. Sitting in an
excessively reclined position can be
dangerous. You could slide under
the seat belt in a collision. If you
slide under it, the belt would apply
force at the abdomen or neck. That
could cause serious or even fatal
injuries. The seat back and seat
belts provide the best restraint
when the wearer is in an upright
position and belts are properly
positioned on the body.

Seat Belt Warning System

With the key in steering lock position
2, a warning sounds for a short time if
the driver's seat belt is not fastened.

Warning!

Failure to wear and properly fasten
and position your seat belt greatly
increases your risk of injuries and
their likely severity in an accident.
You and your passengers should
always wear seat belts.

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 can hit the interior
of the vehicle or be ejected from it.
You can be seriously injured or
killed.

In the same crash, the possibility for
injury or death is lessened with your
seat belt buckled.

45

Seat Belt Extender

When the respective door is closed and
the key is in steering lock position 1 or
2, the seat belt extender brings the belt
forward within easy reach of the
occupant.

The seat belt extender also brings the
belt forward, if the seat is not occupied.

Switch on center console

With the doors closed and seat belt not
buckled, the seat belt extender can
also be brought forward by using the
switch.

If the seat belt is not buckled within 30
seconds, the seat belt extender will
return to its rest position.

This is also the case if the key is turned
to steering lock position 1 or if a door
is opened.

Warning!

The seat belt extender must be in its
rest position for the seat belt to
provide proper protection. If the
electrical system fails, forcibly push
the extender back to its rest position.

If the seat belt extender cannot be
brought to its rest position, the seat
belt cannot provide proper
protection in case of an accident.

In this case have the system checked
at your authorized Mercedes-Benz
dealer.

46

1 Latch plate
2 Buckle
3 Release button

Fastening of Seat Belts

Adjust seat belt so that shoulder
portion is located as close as possible
to the middle of your shoulder. Do not
twist the belt. twisted seat belt may
cause injury.

Unfastening of Seat Belts

Push the release button (3) in the belt
buckle (2).

Allow the retractor to completely
rewind the seat belt by guiding the
latch plate (1).

For cleaning and care of the seat belts,
see Upholstery in Index.

Operation:

The inertia reel stops the belt from
unwinding during sudden vehicle stops
or when quickly pulling on the belt.

The locking function of the reel may be
checked by quickly pulling out the belt.

Push latch plate (1) into buckle (2)
until it clicks.

The lap belt should be positioned as
low as possible on your hips and not
across the abdomen.

Three-point seat belt:

Tighten the lap portion to a snug
fit by pulling shoulder portion up.

The shoulder portion of the seat belt
must be pulled snug and checked for
snugness immediately after engaging
it.

The pivot plate must face to the front.
For safety reasons, avoid adjusting
the seat or seat back into positions
which could affect the correct seat
belt position.

47

Warning!

USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY.

too far forward.

That would increase the chance of

Pregnant women should also use

• 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.
"SRS" (driver airbag, passenger
airbag), "ETR" (seat belt
emergency tensioning retractors),
and knee bolsters are designed
to enhance the protection offered
to properly belted occupants in
certain frontal impacts which
exceed preset deployment
thresholds.

• Improperly positioned seat belts

do not provide maximum
protection and may cause serious
injuries in case of an accident.

• Never wear the shoulder belt

under your arm, against your
neck or off your shoulder. In a
crash, your body would move

head and neck injuries. The belt
would also apply too much force
to the ribs or abdomen, which
could severely injure internal
organs such as your liver or
spleen.

• Position the lap belt as low as

possible on your hips and not
across the abdomen. If the belt is
positioned across your abdomen,
it could cause serious injuries in a
crash.

• Each seat belt should never be

used for more than one person at
a time. Do not fasten a seat belt
around a person and objects.

• Belts should not be worn twisted.
In a crash, you wouldn't have the
full width of the belt to take
impact forces. The twisted belt
against your body could cause
injuries.

•

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.

USE CHILD RESTRAINTS
PROPERLY.

• Infants and small children must

be seated in an infant or child
restraint system, which is
properly secured by a lap belt or
lap belt portion of a lap-shoulder
belt. Children could be
endangered in an accident if their
child restraints are not properly
secured in the vehicle.

• Rear-facing child restraints must

not be used in the front seat. They
could be struck by the airbag
when it inflates in a crash. If this
happens, a child in the restraint
could be seriously or fatally
injured.

48

• According to accident statistics,

children are safer when properly
restrained in the rear seating
positions than in the front seating
positions.

• Children too big for child restraint

systems should ride in rear seats
using regular seat belts. Position
shoulder belt across chest and
shoulder, not face or neck. A
booster seat may be necessary to
achieve proper belt positioning.

• Adjust the front passenger seat as

far as possible rear ward from the
dashboard when a child restraint
is installed.

Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS)

The SRS uses two crash severity levels
(thresholds) to activate either the ETR
or airbag or both. Activation depends
on exceeding the thresholds and
fastening of the seat belt.

Seat belt fastened

• first threshold exceeded:

ETR activates

• second threshold exceeded:

airbag also activates

Seat belt not fastened

• first threshold exceeded: airbag
activates, but not ETR

Driver and front passenger systems
operate independently from each other

Emergency Tensioning
Retractor (ETR)

The seat belts are equipped with
emergency tensioning retractors. These
tensioning retractors are located in
each belt's inertia reel and become
operationally ready with the key in
steering lock position 1 or 2.

The emergency tensioning retractors
are designed to activate only when the
seat belts are fastened during major
frontal impacts within the shaded area
shown. They tighten the belts in such a
way that they fit more snugly against
the body, restricting its forward
movement as much as possible.

In cases of other frontal impacts, roll­overs, certain side impacts, rear
collisions, or other accidents without
frontal forces, the emergency
tensioning retractors will not be
activated. The driver and passenger
will then be protected by the fastened
seat belts and inertia reel in the usual
manner.

For seat belt and emergency tensioning
retractor safety guidelines, see Safety
Guidelines in Index.

49

Airbags

The most effective occupant restraint
system yet developed for use in
production vehicles is the three point
seat belt. In some cases, however, the
protective effect of a seat belt can be
further enhanced by an airbag.

The driver airbag (1) is located in the
steering wheel hub. The passenger
airbag (2) is located in the dashboard
ahead of the passenger. In conjunction
with wearing the seat belts with
emergency tensioning retractors (4),
they provide increased protection for
the driver and passenger.

The operational readiness of the airbag
system is verified by the indicator
lamp "SRS" (3) in the instrument
cluster. If no fault is detected, the lamp
will go out after approximately 4
seconds; after the lamp goes out, the
system continues to monitor the
components and circuitry of the airbag
system and will indicate a malfunction
by coming on again.

50

The following system components are
monitored or undergo a self-check:
crash-sensor, airbag ignition circuits,
driver and passenger seat belt buckles.
Initially, when the key is turned from
steering lock position 0 to positions 1 or
2, malfunctions in the crash-sensor are
detected and indicated (the "SRS"
indicator lamp stays on longer than 4
seconds).

In the operational mode, after the
indicator lamp has gone out following
the initial check, interruptions and short
circuits in the airbag ignition circuit and
in the driver and passenger seat belt
buckle harnesses, and low voltage in the
entire system are detected and
indicated.

In the event a malfunction of the "SRS"
is indicated as outlined above, the
"SRS" may not be operational. We
strongly recommend that you visit an
authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer
immediately to have the system
checked; otherwise the "SRS" may not
be activated in a major frontal accident.

Important!

The "SRS" airbags are designed to
activate only in certain frontal and
front-angled impacts. Only during
these types of impacts, if of sufficient
severity to meet the deployment
thresholds, will they provide their
supplemental protection. The driver
and passenger should always wear
the seat belts, otherwise it is not
possible for the airbags to provide
their intended supplemental
protection.

In cases of other frontal impacts,
roll-overs, certain side impacts, rear
collisions, or other accidents without
sufficient frontal forces, the airbag
will not be activated. The driver and
passengers will then be protected by
the fastened seat belts.

We caution you not to rely on the
presence of an airbag in order to
avoid wearing your seat belt.

51

Important!

The "SRS" is designed to reduce the
potential of injury in certain frontal
and front-angled impacts which may
cause injuries; however, no system
available today can totally eliminate
injuries and fatalities.

The activation of the "SRS"
temporarily releases a small amount
of dust from the air-bags. This dust,
however, is neither injurious to your
health, nor does it indicate a fire in
the vehicle.

The service life of the airbags
extends to the date indicated on the
label located on the driver-side door
latch post To provide continued
reliability after that date, they should
be inspected by an authorized
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer at that
time and replaced when necessary.

Warning!

It is very important for your safety
to always be in a properly seated
position.

For maximum protection in the
event of a collision always be in
normal seated position with your
back against the seat back. Fasten
your seat belt and ensure that it is
properly positioned on the body.

Since the airbag inflates with
considerable speed and force, a
proper seating position will keep
you in a safe distance from the
airbag:

• Sit properly belted in an upright

position with your back against
the seat back.

• Adjust the driver seat as far as

possible rearward, still permitting
proper operation of vehicle
controls.

• Do not lean with your head or

chest close to the steering wheel
or dashboard.

• Adjust the passenger seat as far

as possible rearward from the
dashboard, especially when a
child restraint is installed.

• Infants and small children should

only be seated in an infant or
child restraint which is properly
secured by the seat belt.

• Rear-facing child restraints must

not be used in a front seat.

Failure to follow these instructions
can result in severe injuries to you or
other occupants.

52

Safety Guidelines for the Seat Belt,

within the steering wheel gets

Emergency Tensioning Retractor
and Airbag

Warning!

• The "SRS" is designed to function
on a one-time-only basis. An
airbag or emergency tensioning
retractor (ETR) that was
activated must be replaced.

• Improper work on the system,

including incorrect installation
and removal, can lead to possible
injury through an uncontrolled
activation of the "SRS".

• Damaged belts or belts that were

highly stressed in an accident
must be replaced and their
anchoring points must also be
checked. Use only belts installed
or supplied by an authorized
Mercedes-Benz dealer.

• Do not pass belts over sharp

edges.

• Do not make any modification

that could change the
effectiveness of the belts.

• No modifications of any kind may
be made to any components or
wiring of the "SRS". This
includes the installation of
additional trim material, badges
etc. over the steering wheel hub or
front passenger airbag cover and
installation of additional
electrical/ electronic equipment on
or near "SRS" components and
wiring.

• An airbag system component

hot after the airbag has inflated.

• In addition, through improper

work there is the risk of
rendering the "SRS"
inoperative. Work on the "SRS"
must therefore only be
performed by an authorized
Mercedes-Benz dealer.

• When scrapping the airbag

unit or emergency tensioning
retractor, it is mandatory
to follow our safety instruct
ions. These instructions are
available at your authorized
Mercedes-Benz dealer.

When you sell the vehicle we strongly
urge you to give notice to the subsequent
owner that it is equipped with an "SRS"
by alerting him to the applicable section
in the Owner's Manual.

53

Infants and Child Restraint
Systems

We recommend that all infants and
children be restrained at all times while
the vehicle is in motion.

Important!

The use of infant or child restraints is
required by law in all 50 states and all
Canadian provinces.

Infants and small children should be
seated in an infant or child restraint
system, which is properly secured by
the lap belt portion of the lap-shoulder
belt, and that complies with U.S.
Federal Motor Safety Standard 213 and
Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard 213.1. A statement by the
child restraint manufacturer of
compliance with this standard can be
found on the instruction label on the
restraint and in the instruction manual
provided with the restraint.

When using any infant or child
restraint system, be sure to carefully
read and follow all manufacturer's
instructions for installation and use.

Warning!

According to accident statistics,
children are safer when properly
restrained in the rear seating positions
than in the front, seating positions,

I! tear-facing child restraints must not
be used in the front passenger seat
They could be struck by the airbag
when it inflates in a crash. If this hap­pens, a child in the restraint could be
seriously or fatally injured.

Infants and small children should never
be held on the Sap while the vehicle is
in motion. During an accident they
would be almost impossible to hold,
and could be crushed between the adult
and the dashboard.

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.

Children too big for child restraint
systems should ride in rear seats
using regular seat belts. Position
shoulder belt across chest and
shoulder, not face or neck. A booster
seat may be necessary to achieve
proper belt positioning.

When the child restraint is not in
use, remove it from the car or secure
it with the seat belt to prevent the
child restraint from becoming a
projectile in the event of an accident.

U.S.A. Models only: Since 1986 all
U.S. child restraints comply with U.S.
regulations without the use of a tether
strap.

Canada Models only: This vehicle is
provided with tether anchorages for a
top tether strap. Consult your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for
installation of these anchorages.

In compliance with Canadian Motor
Vehicle Safety Standard 210.1, child
restraint tether anchorage hardware is
attached to the tool kit located in the
trunk.

54

1 Steering is unlocked.

(If necessary, move steering wheel
slightly to allow the key to be turned
clockwise to position 1.)
Most electrical consumers can be
operated. For detailed information
see respective subjects.

2 Driving position.

3 Starting position.

Refer to Index for Starting and turning
off the engine.

Notes:
A warning sounds when the driver's
door is opened with the key in steering
lock position 1 or 0.

With the engine at idle speed, the
charging rate of the alternator (output)
is limited.

It is therefore recommended to turn off
unnecessary electrical consumers while
driving in stop-and-go traffic. This
precaution helps to avoid draining of
the battery.

Steering Lock

0 The key can be withdrawn in this

position only. The steering is
locked with the key removed
from the steering lock. The key
can be removed only with the
selector lever in position "P".
After removing the key or with
the key in steering lock position 0,
the selector lever is locked in
position "P".

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle always
remove the key from the steering
lock. Do not leave children
unattended in the vehicle.
Unsupervised use of vehicle
equipment may cause serious
personal injury.

Unnecessary strain on the battery and
charging system may be minimized by
turning off the following power
consumers, for example: Heated seats,
rear window defroster. In addition, the
automatic climate air volume control
should be set to "MIN".

Caution!

To prevent accelerated battery
discharge and a possible dead battery,
always remove the key from the
steering lock. Do not leave the key in
steering lock position 0.

55

Combination Switch

1 Low beam (exterior lamp

switch position )

2 High beam (exterior lamp

switch position )

3 High beam flasher (high beam

available independent of
exterior lamp switch position)

4 Turn signals, right
5 Turn signals, left

To signal minor directional changes,
such as changing lanes on a highway,
move combination switch to the point
of resistance only and hold it there.

To operate the turn signals
continuously, move the combination
switch past the point of resistance (up
or down). The switch is automatically
canceled when the steering wheel is
turned to a large enough degree

6 Press switch briefly:

One wipe without washer water
(select only if window is wet).
Press switch past resistance point:
Windshield washer, windshield
wiper; headlamp cleaning system
(only in exterior lamp switch
positions or Canada only:
also in position when the engine is
running)

7 Windshield wiper

0 Wiper off
I Intermittent wiping

II Normal wiper speed
III Fast wiper speed

Note:

The windshield washer reservoir,
hoses and nozzles are automatically
heated.

56

Windshield Washer Fluid Mixing
Ratio

For temperatures above freezing:
MB Windshield Washer
Concentrate "S" and water

1 part "S" to 100 parts water
(40 ml "S" to 1 gallon water).

For temperature below freezing:
MB Windshield Washer Concentrate
"S" and commercially available
premixed windshield washer
solvent/antifreeze

Blocked Windshield Wiper

If the windshield wiper becomes
blocked (for example, due to snow),
switch off the wiper motor.

For safety reasons before removing ice
or snow, remove key from steering
lock. Remove blockage.

Activate combination switch again
(key in steering lock position 1).

Emergency Operation of
Windshield Wiper

Signaling Turns with Hazard
Warning Flasher in Use

For example, when the vehicle is being
towed (key in steering lock turned to
position 2):

With hazard warning flasher on,
activate combination switch for left or
right turn signal - only the selected turn
signal will blink.

Upon canceling the turn signal, the
hazard warning flasher will operate
again.

1 part "S" to 100 parts solvent
(40 ml "S" to 1 gallon solvent).

Windshield Wiper Smears

If the windshield wiper smears the
windshield, even during rain, activate
the washer system as often as
necessary. The fluid in the washer
reservoir should be mixed in the
correct ratio.

In case of windshield wiper
malfunction, turn combination switch
to wiper setting II.

Have the system checked at your
authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer
as soon as possible.

Turn Signal Failure

If one of the turn signals fails, the turn
signal indicator system flashes and
sounds at a faster than normal rate. In
addition, the exterior lamp failure
indicator will come on.

57

Off

Standing Lamps

Exterior Lamp Switch

Canada only:

When the engine is running, the low
beam (includes parking lamps, side
marker lamps, taillamps, license plate
lamps and instrument panel lamps) are
automatically switched on.

Note:

For nighttime drivingthe exterior lamp
switch should be turned to position ID

to permit activation of the high

beam headlamps.

Parking lamps (also side
marker lamps, taillamps,
license plate lamps,
instrument panel lamps)
Canada only: When the
engine is running, the low
beam is additionally
switched on.
Parking lamps plus low
beam or high beam
headlamps (combination
switch pushed forward)
Standing lamps, right
(turn left one stop)
Standing lamps, left
(turn left two stops)

Fog lamps
(pull out one stop) with
parking and/or
headlamps on
Rear fog lamp (pull out to
2nd detent) in addition to
fog lamps. Indicator lamp in
lamp switch comes on.

When the vehicle is parked on the
street the standing lamps (right or left
side parking lamps) can be turned on,
making the vehicle more visible to
passing vehicles.

The standing lamps cannot be
operated with the key in steering lock
position 2.

Note:

With the key removed and a front door
open, an audible warning will sound if
the vehicle's exterior lamps (except
standing lamps) are not switched off.
Fog lamps will operate with the
parking lamps and the low or high
beam headlamps. Fog lamps should
only be used in conjunction with low
beam headlamps. Consult your state
Motor Vehicle Regulations regarding
allowable lamp operation.

Fog lamps are automatically switched
off when the exterior lamp, switch is
turned to position O .

58

Inside and Exterior Rear View
Mirrors

Inside Rear View Mirror

The mirror is electrically
adjustable.

Use your inside mirror to determine the
size and distance of objects seen in
the passenger side convex mirror.

The switch is located on the center
console.

Turn key in steering lock to position
2 (with either front door open, the
mirror can be operated with key
removed or in steering lock position 0
or 1).

Turn switch to position
To adjust, move the switch forward,
backward or to either side.

Antiglare Night Position

With the key in steering lock position 2,
the mirror reflection brightness
responds to changes in light
sensitivity.

59

Exterior Rear View Mirrors

Note:

Exterior rear view mirror, left
Exterior rear view mirror, right

Turn key in steering lock to position 2
(with either front door open, the
mirrors can be operated with key
removed or in steering lock position 0
or 1).

Turn switch to select the mirror to be
adjusted.

To adjust, move the switch forward,
backward or to either side.

The exterior mirrors have electrically
heated glass. The heater switches on
automatically, depending on outside
temperature.

If an exterior mirror housing is forcibly
pivoted from its normal position, it
must be repositioned by applying firm
pressure until it snaps into place.

Warning!

Exercise care when using the
passenger-side mirror. The
passenger-side exterior mirror is
convex (outwardly curved surface
for a wider field of view). Objects in
mirror are closer than they appear.
Check your inside rear view mirror
or glance over your shoulder before
changing lanes.

60

Exterior Rear View Mirror
Multiple Images

This vehicle is equipped with anti­fogging dual-pane side windows to
provide extra insulation against heat,
cold and noise. Because of the second
pane of glass, under certain light and
weather conditions a multiple image
may become noticable, especially when
looking through the side windows at an
outside rear view mirror.

Storing Mirror Positions in
Memory

The exterior and inside rear view
mirror positions are stored in memory
with the seat/head restraint/ steering
column position and can be recalled
when necessary, see Index.

Note:

If the inside rear view mirror was
adjusted separately, the originally
stored position remains in memory. To
recall position, press the desired
position button.

Folding the mirrors out

Turn switch to point rearward. Press
switch forward until the mirrors are
folded out.

Important!

Do not fold mirrors out, forcing them
by hand. This will damage the
operating mechanism of the mirrors.

Folding the mirrors in

Turn switch to point rearward. Press
switch rearward until the mirrors are
folded in.

Important!

Before running the vehicle through an
automatic car wash, fold mirror in,
otherwise they may get damaged.

61

Sun Visors

Swing sun visors down to protect
against sun glare.

If sunlight enters through a side
window, disengage visor from inner
mounting and pivot to the
side. From this position, the visor can
slide forward and backward on its
shaft.

Illuminated Vanity Mirrors

With the visor engaged in its inner
mounting, the lamp can be switched
on by opening the cover.

Warning!

Do not use the vanity mirror while
driving.

62

2 Interior Lamps

Entrance Lamps, Exit Lamps

Interior Lighting

1 Interior Lamps (Door contact)

A B

A Interior lamps are switched on,

and off delayed, when unlocking
or locking the vehicle, or when
opening or closing either front
door. However, there will be no
delay when the key is in steering
lock position 2.

B Interior lamps switched off.

A B

A Interior lamps

switched off.

B Interior lamps switched on,

3 Rear Courtesy Lamps

A B

A Courtesy lamps switched off.
B Courtesy lamps switched on.

Note:

The courtesy lamps cannot be
switched off as long as a rear door is
open.

2 Reading Lamps, Front

A

B

A Reading lamp switched off.
B Reading lamp switched on.

The lamps are switched on and off by
the door contact switches.

Note:

To prevent the vehicle battery from
being discharged, do not leave doors
open for a long period of time.

63

Storage/Eyeglasses
Compartment

To open: Press button (2).

Glove Box

The glove box lid is equipped with a
container for coins and small
accessories.

Storage Compartments

Storage Compartments
in the Dashboard

1 Storage/eyeglasses

compartment

2 Button for storage/

eyeglasses compartment

3 Glove box
4 Button for glove box
5 Lock

To open: Press button (4).

Note:

The storage compartments may be
locked and unlocked by using the
master key in lock (5).

Locking:
Turn master key in lock (5) to the
right and remove.

Unlocking:
Turn master key back to vertical
position.

Storage Compart ments
in the Door

6 Door pocket

To open:
Fold down cover.

Caution!

Keep compartment lids closed. This
will prevent stored objects from being
thrown about and injuring vehicle
occupants during an accident.

64

in center console, front

in rear center console

Lighter

Ashtrays

By touching the top of the cover
lightly, the ashtray opens automatically.
Prior to removing the ashtray insert
move gear selector lever to position
"N"

Warning!

With the gear selector lever in
position "N", turn off the engine and
set the parking brake. Otherwise the
vehicle might move unintentionally.

To remove ashtray from front center
console:

Push sliding knob (1) toward the right
to eject the insert.

To remove ashtray from rear center
console:
Hold left and right side of insert and
pull up.

To install ashtray:
Install insert into ashtray frame
and push down to engage.

Turn key in steering lock to
position 1 or 2.
Push in lighter (1); it will pop out
automatically when hot.

Warning!

Never touch the heating element or
sides of the lighter, hold at knob
only.

65

Glass Sliding Roof with Rear
Pop-Up Feature

An additional screen can be slid into
the roof opening to guard against sun
rays. When sliding the roof open, the
screen will also retract.

Warning!

When closing the sliding roof, be
sure that there is no danger of
anyone being harmed by the closing
procedure.

Sliding Roof with Rear Pop-Up
Feature

1 to slide roof open
2 to slide roof closed
3 to raise roof at rear
4 to lower roof at rear

Turn key in steering lock to position
1 or 2 (with either front door open,
the sliding/pop-up roof can be
operated with key removed or in
steering lock position 0).

The switch is illuminated when the
exterior lamps are switched on
(except standing lamps).

Notes:

The sliding roof can be opened or
closed manually should an electrical
malfunction occur, refer to Emergency
Operation in Index.

The sliding roof can also be closed
with the key or infrared remote control
while locking the vehicle doors or
trunk (see Central Locking System in
Index).

66

in center console, front

Power Windows

Switches for:

1 left, front
2 left, rear
3 right, front
4 right, rear
5 safety switch
6 individual switches (rear doors)

in rear doors

Turn key in steering lock to
position 1 or 2.

Press switch in to resistance point:

to close
to open

Release switch when window is in
desired position.

Express Opening and Closing

Press switch or past re­sistance point and release - window
opens or closes completely.
To interrupt procedure, briefly
press or

If the upward movement of the
window is blocked during the closing
procedure, the window will stop during
the last few inches before closure and
open slightly.

When pressing and holding the switch

to close the window, and upward
movement of the window is blocked
during the last few inches before
closure, it will stop but not open
slightly.

Blocking of Rear Door Window
Operation

If no operation of the rear windows by
switch (6) (for instance by children) is
desired, slide safety switch (5) to right,
symbol becomes visible.

67

Warning!

When closing the windows, be sure
that there is no danger of anyone
being harmed by the closing
procedure.

In case of obstruction, the automatic
reversal will not operate if a window
is being closed by pressing the switch
to its resistance point and holding it
there, or when using a key or the
remote control.

The power windows can also be closed
with the key or infrared remote control
while locking the vehicle doors or
trunk (see Central Locking System in
Index).

Important!

Do not close a door with the windows
fully closed while the power supply is
interrupted (battery disconnected or
empty). Doing so could damage the
window frame.

The closing procedure can be
immediately reversed by either
pressing the switch , turning the
key to the unlocking position, or
releasing and pressing the transmit
button, and holding it.

When leaving the vehicle, always
remove the key from the steering lock.
Do not leave children unattended in
the vehicle. Unsupervised use of
vehicle equipment can cause serious
personal injury.

Synchronizing Power Windows

When opening a door after the power
supply was interrupted (battery
disconnected or empty), the window
will open slightly, indicating that the
Express feature should be
resynchronized.

Press side of power window
switch until the window is completely
closed and hold for additional 2
seconds. Repeat procedure for each
window.

The automatic full opening and closing
procedure of the windows should now
be restored.

Rear Window Sunshade

1 Raising
2 Lowering

The switches are located on the center
console and between the single rear
seats.

The sunshade should always be either
fully raised or fully lowered.

68

Rear Window Defroster

turned off

The switch is located in the center
console.

Turn key in steering lock to
position 1 or 2.

When activating the rear window
defroster, the indicator lamp in the
switch will come on.

Note:

The rear window defroster uses a large
amount of power. To keep the battery
drain to a minimum, turn off the
defroster as soon as the window is
clear.

The defroster is automatically
after a maximum of 20 minutes of
operation.

Heavy accumulation of snow and ice
should be removed before activating
the defroster.

If several power consumers are turned
on simultaneously, or the battery is
only partially charged, it is possible
that the defroster will automatically
turn itself off. When this happens, the
indicator lamp inside the switch starts
blinking.

As soon as the battery has sufficient
voltage, the defroster automatically
turns itself back on.

Trunk Lid Release Switch

The switch is located in the center
console.

To open the trunk, the vehicle must be
parked and unlocked.

Press symbol side of switch.

With vehicle centrally locked, the trunk
can also be opened by using the
infrared remote control. Aim
transmitter eye at receiver next to trunk
lid lock and press transmit button twice.

69

1 Adjusting knob

Instrument Lamps

Rotate adjusting knob (1) to vary
intensity of instrument lamps.

Display Illumination

Press adjusting knob to briefly
illuminate the display (with key
removed or in steering lock position 0
or 1).

With exterior lamps switched on the
display illumination becomes
automatically dim.

Rotate adjusting knob clockwise to its
stop to override the dimmed
illumination.

Trip odometer

To reset:

• Press adjusting knob (1) once
(with key in steering lock
position 2).

• Press adjusting knob (1) twice
(with key removed or in
steering lock position 0 or 1).

Setting Clock

Adjusting clock one minute ahead or
back:
Pull out adjustment knob (2), briefly
turn to the right respectively left and
release knob.
Adjusting clock more than one minute
ahead or back: Pull out adjustment
knob (2), turn to the right respectively
left and hold until the desired time is
set. Within the first 2 seconds, the
minute hand advances 8 minutes and
advances another 8 minutes every
additional second thereafter

70

Shelf below Rear Window

Antenna

Cellular Telephone

Warning!

The shelf below the rear window
should not be used to carry objects.
This will prevent such objects from
being thrown about and injuring
vehicle occupants during an accident
or sudden maneuver.

The antenna extends when switching
on the telephone.

Note:

To retract the antenna (e.g. when
entering a car wash) the telephone
must be switched off.

The vehicle is prepared for the
installation of a cellular telephone. For
further information and installation
contact your authorized Mercedes­Benz dealer.

Warning!

Some jurisdictions prohibit the
driver from using a cellular
telephone while driving a vehicle.
Whether or not prohibited by law,
for safety reasons, the driver should
not use the cellular telephone while
the vehicle is in motion. Stop the
vehicle in a safe location before
answering or placing a call.

71

72

Driving

73

Drinking and Driving

Driving Off

Warning!

Drinking and driving can be a very
dangerous combination. Even a small
amount of alcohol or drugs can affect
your reflexes, perceptions and
judgement.

The possibility of a serious or even
fatal accident is sharply increased
when you drink and drive.

Please don't drink and drive or allow
anyone to drive after drinking.

Test the brakes briefly after driving off.
Perform this procedure only when the
road is clear of other traffic.

Warm up the engine smoothly. Do not
place full load on the engine until the
operating temperature has been reached.

Warning!

Keep driver's foot area clear at all
times. Objects stored in this area may
impair pedal movement.

Parking Brake

To engage, depress parking brake
pedal. When the key is in steering lock
position 2, the brake warning lamp in
the instrument cluster should come on
brightly.
To release the parking brake, pull
handle on instrument panel. The brake
warning lamp in the instrument cluster
should go out.
A warning sounds, if you start to drive
without having released the parking
brake.
Also see Brake Warning Lamp Test in
Index.

74

Automatic Transmission

The automatic transmission selects
individual gears automatically,
dependent upon

• Selector lever position

• Accelerator position

• Vehicle speed

Important!

When parking the car or before
working on the vehicle with the engine
running, firmly depress the parking
brake pedal and shift the selector lever
into "P".

Driving

The selector lever is automatically
locked while in position "P". To move
the selector lever out of position "P",
the service brake pedal must be firmly
depressed before the shift lock will
release.

Shift selector lever to the desired
driving position only when the engine
is idling and the service brake is
applied. Do not release the brake until
ready to drive.

The vehicle may otherwise start
creeping when the selector lever is in
drive or reverse position.

Warning!

It is dangerous to shift the selector
lever out of "P" or "N" if the engine
speed is higher than idle speed. If
your foot is not on the brake pedal,
the car could accelerate quickly
forward or in reverse. You could lose
control of the car and hit someone or
something. Only shift into gear when
the engine is idling normally and
when your right foot is firmly on the
brake pedal.

Important!

After selecting any driving position
from "N" or "P", wait a moment to
allow the gear to fully engage before
accelerating, especially when the
engine is cold.

Accelerator position

Partial throttle = early upshifting =
normal acceleration

Full throttle = later upshifting = rapid
acceleration

Kickdown (depressing the accelerator
beyond full throttle) = downshifting to
next lowest gear = maximum
acceleration. Once the desired speed is
attained, ease up on the accelerator ­the transmission shifts up again.

75

With the key removed, the selector
lever is locked in position "P".

3 Upshift to 3rd gear only. Suitable

for moderately steep hills.

Selector Lever Positions

The automatic gear shifting process
can be adapted to specific operating
conditions using the selector lever.

P Parking lock.

The parking lock is an additional
safeguard to the parking brake when
parking the vehicle. Engage only
with the car stopped.

Note:

The key can be removed from the

steering lock only with the
selector lever in position "P".

R Reverse gear.

Shift to reverse gear only with the
car stopped.

N Neutral.

No power is transmitted from the
engine to the rear axle. When the
brakes conditions are released, the
vehicle can be moved freely (pushed
or towed). Do not engage "N" while
driving except to coast when the
vehicle is in danger of skidding
(e.g. on icy roads, see Winter
Driving Instructions in Index).

Important!

Coasting the vehicle, or driving for
any other reason with selector lever
in "N" can result in transmission
damage that is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

D The transmission automatically

upshifts to 4th gear. Position "D"
provides optimum driving
characteristics under all normal
operating conditions.

2 Upshift to 2nd gear only. For

driving in mountainous regions.
Since the transmission does not
shift higher than 2nd gear, this
gear selection will allow use of the
engine's braking power downhill.

B In this position, the engine's

braking effect is utilized by shifting
into 1st gear. Use this position
while descending very steep or
lengthy downgrades and only at
speeds below 40 mph (60 km/h).

Important!

With selector lever in position "D", "4"
or "3", upshifting from 2nd to 3rd gear
is delayed depending on vehicle speed
and engine temperature. This allows
the catalytic converter to heat up more
quickly to operating temperatures.

During the brief warm-up period this
delayed upshift and increased engine
noise might be perceived as a
malfunction. However, neither the
engine nor transmission are

76

negatively affected by this mode of
operation.

The delayed upshift is effective with
vehicle speeds below 31 mph (50
km/h) at partial throttle and engine
temperatures below 95°F (35°C).
Do not exceed the vehicle speed limits
for individual gear selections, which
are indicated by marks (I, II, III etc.) on
the circumference of the speedometer.

Do not brake the vehicle by
downshifting to a lower gear (for
example from "D" to "3") unless the
speedometer needle is below the speed
limit mark of that particular gear range.
Overrevving could result in serious
damage to the engine.

Warning!

On slippery road surfaces, never
downshift in order to obtain braking
action. This could result in rear
wheel slip and reduced vehicle
control. Your vehicle's ABS will not
prevent this type of loss of control.
This applies particularly for position
"B".

To prevent the engine from laboring at
low RPMs, do not allow the engine
speed to drop too low on uphill
gradients.

Depending on the degree of the incline,
shift selector lever to a lower gear
range early enough to maintain engine
RPM within the best torque range.

Maneuvering

To maneuver in tight areas, e.g. when
pulling into parking space, control the
car speed by gradually releasing the
brakes. Accelerate gently and never
abruptly step on the accelerator.

To rock a car out of soft ground (mud
or snow), alternately shift from
forward to reverse, while applying
slight partial throttle.

Rocking a car free in this manner may
cause the ABS warning lamp to come
on. Turn off and restart the engine to
clear the malfunction indication.

Stopping

For brief stops, e.g. at traffic lights,
leave the transmission in gear and hold
vehicle with the service brake.

For longer stops with the engine idling,
shift into "N" or "P".

When stopping the car on an uphill
incline, do not hold it with the
accelerator, use the brake. This avoids
unnecessary transmission heat build up.

Warning!

Getting out of your car with the
selector lever not fully engaged in
position "P" is dangerous. When
parked on a steep incline, position
"P" alone may not prevent your
vehicle from moving, possibly hitting
people or objects.

Always set the parking brake in
addition to shifting to position "P".

When parked on an incline, also turn
front wheel against curb.

77

Rear Fender Indicators

When the reverse gear is selected, the
rear fender indicators will extend
upward from the rear corners of the
fenders.

Normally the vehicle is accelerated to
the desired speed with the accelerator.

Speed is set by briefly pushing the
lever to position 1 or 2. The accelerator
can be released.

The rear fender indicators retract
delayed when shifting out of reverse.
They retract immediately when turning
key in steering lock to position 0.

Note:

Before shifting into reverse gear,
ensure that the rear fender indicators
can extend freely.

Cruise Control

Any given speed above approximately
25 mph (40 km/h) can be maintained
with the cruise control by operating the
lever.

1 Accelerate and set:

Lift lever briefly to set speed. Hold
lever up to accelerate.

2 Decelerate and set:

Depress lever briefly to set speed.

Hold lever down to decelerate.

The speed can be increased (e.g. for
passing) by using the accelerator. As
soon as the accelerator is released, the
previously set speed will be resumed
automatically.

If a set speed is to be increased or
decreased slightly, e.g. to adapt to the
traffic flow, hold lever in position 1 or
2 until the desired speed is reached, or
briefly tip the control lever in the
appropriate direction for increases or
decreases in 0.6 mph (1 km/h)
increments. When the lever is released,
the newly set speed remains.

78

3 Canceling

Note:

Warning!

To cancel the cruise control, briefly
push lever to position 3.

When you step on the brake or the
vehicle speed drops below approx.
25 mph (40 km/h), for example
when driving upgrade, the cruise
control will be canceled.

If the cruise control cancels by itself
and remains inoperative until the
engine is restarted, have the system
checked at your authorized
Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as
possible.

4 Resume

If the lever is briefly pushed to

position 4 when driving at a speed
exceeding approx. 25 mph (40
km/h), the vehicle resumes the
speed which was set prior to the
cancellation of the cruise control.
The last memorized speed is
canceled when the key in the
steering lock is turned to position 1
or 0.

If the engine does not brake the vehicle
sufficiently while driving on a
downgrade, the speed you set on the
cruise control may be exceeded and
you may have to step on the brake
pedal to slow down. As soon as the
grade eases, the cruise controlled speed
will again be maintained as long as the
brakes were not previously applied, or
the lever may be used to resume the
previously set speed if the brakes were
applied.

Caution!

When driving with the cruise control,
the transmission selector lever must
not be shifted to position "N" as
otherwise the engine will overrev.

Only use the cruise control if the
traffic and weather conditions make
it advisable to travel at a steady
speed.

• The use of cruise control

can be dangerous on winding
roads or in heavy traffic
because conditions do not
allow safe driving at a
steady speed.

• The use of cruise control

can be dangerous on slippery
roads. Rapid changes
in tire adhesion can result
in wheel spin and loss of
control.

The "Resume" function should only
be operated if the driver is fully
aware of the previously set speed and
wishes to resume this particular
preset speed.

79

Charge Indicator Lamp

Should the charge indicator lamp fail to
come on prior to starting when the key
is in steering lock position 2 or should
it fail to go out after starting or during
operation, this indicates a fault which
must be repaired at an authorized
Mercedes-Benz dealer immediately.

If the charge indicator lamp comes on
while the engine is running, this may
indicate that the poly-V-belt has
broken. Should this condition occur,
the poly-V-belt must be replaced before
continuing to operate the vehicle.
Otherwise, the engine will overheat due
to an inoperative water pump which
may result in damage to the engine.

Do not continue to drive the vehicle
with the charge indicator lamp
illuminated. Doing so could result in
engine damage that is not covered by
the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge

The oil pressure at idle speed may drop
if the engine is at operating
temperature. This will not jeopardize
the engine's operational reliability.
Pressure must, however, rise
immediately upon acceleration.

Note:

If the oil pressure gauge needle drops
to "0" with the engine running, then
damage to the engine may occur with
continued operation. Turn off engine
immediately and contact an authorized
Mercedes-Benz dealer. Do not operate
the car until the condition in repaired.

Low Engine Oil Level Warning
Lamp

With the key in steering lock position
2, the oil level warning lamp comes on
and should go out when the engine is
running.

If the warning lamp comes on with the
engine running and at operating
temperature, the engine oil

level has dropped to approximately the
minimum mark on the dipstick.
When this occurs, the warning lamp
will first come on intermittently and
then stay on if the oil level drops
further.

If no oil leaks are noted and there is no
loss in engine oil pressure, continue to
drive to the nearest service station
where the engine oil should be topped
to the "full" mark on the dipstick with
an approved oil.

The low engine oil level warning light
should not be ignored. Extended
driving with the light illuminated could
result in engine damage that is not
covered by the Mercedes-Benz
Limited Warranty.

In addition to the warning lamp, the
engine oil level should be periodically
checked with the dipstick, for example
during a fuel stop, or before a long trip
(see Index).

80

Engine Oil Consumption

Fuel Consumption Gauge

Tachometer

Engine oil consumption checks should
only be made after the break-in period.
During the break-in period, higher oil
consumption may be noticed and is
normal. Frequent driving at high
engine speeds results in increased
consumption.

While driving, instantaneous fuel
consumption is indicated in miles per
gallon (mpg), or in Canada liters per
100 kilometers (I/100 km).

With the engine switched off, the
needle reads "0".

Due to system design, maximum
consumption is indicated at idle speed

Red marking on tachometer:
Excessive engine speed.

Avoid this engine speed, as it may
result in engine damage that is not
covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty.

For engine protection, the fuel supply
is interrupted if the engine is operated
within the red marking.

81

Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp

Warning!

Warning!

With the key in steering lock position
2, the fuel reserve warning lamp comes
on and goes out with the engine
running.

If the warning lamps do not go out after
starting the engine or if they come on
while driving, it indicates that the fuel
level is down to the reserve quantity of
approx. 3.3 gal (12.5 liters),

Outside Temperature Indicator

The temperature sensor is located in the
front bumper area. Due to its location,
the sensor can be affected by road or
engine heat during idling or slow
driving. This means that the accuracy
of the displayed temperature can only
be verified by comparison to a
thermometer placed next to the sensor,
not by comparison to external displays
(e.g. bank signs, etc.).

Adaptation to ambient temperature
takes place in steps and depends on the
prevailing driving conditions (stop-and­go or moderate, constant driving) and
amount of temperature change.

The outside temperature indicator is
not designed to serve as an Ice­Warning Device and is therefore un­suitable for that purpose. Indicated
temperatures just above the freezing
point do not guarantee that the road
surface is free of ice.

Coolant Temperature Gauge

If the antifreeze mixture is effective to
– 30 °C (- 22 °F), the boiling point of
the coolant in the pressurized cooling
system of your vehicle is approx.
130 °C (266 °F).

During severe operating conditions and
stop-and-go city traffic, the coolant
temperature may rise close to the red
marking.

The engine should not be operated with
the coolant temperature in the red zone.
Doing so may cause serious engine
damage which is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

• Driving when your engine is badly
overheated can cause some fluids
which may have leaked into the
engine compartment to catch fire.
You could be seriously burned.
Turn off the engine and get out of
the car until it cools down.

• Steam from an overheated engine

can cause serious burns and can
occur just by opening the engine
hood. Stay away from the engine if
you see or hear steam coming
from it. Turn off the engine and do
not stand near the car until it
cools down.

82

Low Engine Coolant Level
Warning Lamp

With the key in steering lock position
2, the warning lamp comes on and goes
out with the engine running.

If the warning lamp does not go out
after starting the engine, or if it comes
on while driving, then the coolant level
has dropped below the required level. If
no leaks are noticeable and the engine
temperature does not increase, continue
to drive to the nearest service station
and have coolant added to the coolant
system (see Index).

The low engine coolant level warning
light should not be ignored. Extended
driving with the light illuminated may
cause serious engine damage not
covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty.

In cases of major or frequent minor
coolant loss, have the cooling system
checked at your authorized Mercedes­Benz dealer as soon as possible.

Note:

Do not drive without coolant in the
cooling system. The engine will
overheat causing major engine damage.

Monitor the coolant temperature gauge
while driving.

Warning!

Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine
parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene
glycol which may burn if it comes
into contact with hot engine parts.
You can be seriously burned.

Low Windshield and Headlamp
Washer System Fluid Level
Warning Lamp

With the key in steering lock position
2, the warning lamp comes on and goes
out with the engine running.

If the warning lamp comes on with the
engine running, the level of the
reservoir has dropped to approx.1/4pf
the total volume. The reservoir should
be refilled with MB Windshield
Washer Concentrate "S" and water (or
commercially available premixed
windshield washer solvent/antifreeze,
depending on ambient temperature ­see Index) at the next opportunity. The
reservoir for the windshield and
headlamp washer system is located in
the engine compartment next to the
radiator.

The fluid level can be checked visually
at the sight glass located next to the
reservoir filler cap.

83

Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator
Lamp

With the key in steering lock position
2, a dim indicator lamp comes on, and
goes out when the engine is running.

With the key in steering lock position 2
or with the engine running, a bright
illumination of this lamp indicates an
exterior lamp failure.

If an exterior lamp fails, the in­dicator lamp will come on only
when that lamp is switched on.

If a brake or turn signal lamp fails, the
lamp failure indicator will come on
when applying the brake or actuating
the turn signal and stay on until the
engine is turned off.

Note:

The indicator lamp will also come on if
an incorrect bulb is installed.

If additional lighting equipment is
installed (e.g. auxiliary headlamps etc.)
be certain to connect into the fuse
before the failure indicator monitoring
unit in order to avoid damaging the
system.

Seat Belt Warning Lamp

With the key in steering lock position
2, the warning lamp comes on and an
audible warning sounds for a short time
if the driver's seat belt is not fastened.

After starting the engine, the warning
lamp blinks for a brief period to remind
the driver and passengers to fasten seat
belts before driving off.

Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp

The brake pad wear indicator lamp in
the instrument cluster comes on when
the key in the steering lock is turned to
position 2 and goes out when the
engine is running.

If the indicator lamp lights up during
braking, this indicates that the front
and/or rear wheel brake pads are worn
down.

Have the brake system checked at your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as
soon as possible.

84

Brake Warning Lamp

The brake warning lamp will come on
with the key in steering lock position 2
and should go out when the engine is
running.

The brake warning lamp will come on:

• when there is insufficient brake
fluid in the reservoir (engine
running and parking brake
released)

• when the parking brake is set
(engine running).

Warning!

Driving with the brake warning
lamp on can result in an accident.
Have your brake system checked
immediately if the brake warning
lamp stays on. Don't add brake fluid
before checking the brake system.
Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir
can result in spilling brake fluid on
hot engine parts and the brake fluid
catching fire. You can be seriously
burned.

When the minimum mark on the
reservoir is reached, have the brake
system checked for brake pad thickness
and leaks.

To test the brake warning lamp, turn
key in steering lock to position 2. The
brake warning lamp comes on, and
should go out when the engine is
running.

85

Antilock Brake System (ABS)

The ABS prevents the wheels from
locking up above a vehicle speed of
approximately 3 km/h (2 mph)
independent of road surface conditions.
It is necessary, however, that the
vehicle speed reaches at least 8 km/h
(5 mph) before commencing to brake.

At the instant one of the wheels is
about to lock up, a slight pulsation can
be felt in the brake pedal, indicating
that the ABS is in the regulating mode.

On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will
respond even with only slight brake
pedal pressure. The pulsating brake
pedal can be an indication of hazardous
road conditions and functions as a
reminder to take extra care while
driving.

The ABS warning lamp in the
instrument cluster comes on with the
key in steering lock position 2 and
should go out with the engine running.

If the charging voltage falls below 10
volts, the warning lamp comes on and
the ABS is switched off. When the
voltage is above this value again, the
warning lamp should go out and the
ABS will be operational.

If the ABS warning lamp does not go
out or comes on while driving, it
indicates that the ABS has detected a
malfunction and has switched off. In
this case, the brake system functions in
the usual manner, but without antilock
assistance.

Have the system checked at your
authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer
as soon as possible.

Warning!

Even the ABS cannot prevent the
natural laws of physics from acting
on the vehicle. The ABS cannot
prevent accidents, including those
resulting from excessive speed in
turns, following another vehicle too
closely, or aquaplaning. Only a safe,
attentive, and skillful driver can
prevent accidents. The capabilities of
an ABS equipped car must never be
exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner which could jeopardize the
user's safety or the safety of others.

Note:

To alert following vehicles to slippery
road conditions you discover, operate
your hazard warning flashers as
appropriate.

86

Acceleration Slip Control (ASR)

The acceleration slip control will
engage at all vehicle speeds, if one or
both drive wheels begin to lose traction
and spin. While engaged, the yellow
function indicator in the speedometer
lights up.

With the acceleration slip control
engaged, the brake is applied to the
spinning drive wheel until it regains
sufficient traction. If both drive wheels
lose traction and spin, the brake is
applied to both drive wheels and
simultaneously, engine torque is
limited.

As traction on the road surface
increases, the allowable engine torque
also increases again and the brake is no
longer applied to drive wheels.

Caution!

If the vehicle is towed with the front
axle raised (see Towing the vehicle in
Index), the key must not be in steering
lock position 2. Otherwise, the
acceleration slip control will
immediately be engaged will apply the
rear wheel brakes.

Notes:

With the key in steering lock position
2, the yellow function indicator lamp
and the yellow ASR warning lamp in
the instrument cluster come on. They
must go out with the engine running.

If the ASR warning lamp comes on
with the engine running, a malfunction
has been detected. Pressing the
accelerator pedal will require greater
effort. Only partial engine output is
available.

Have the acceleration slip control
checked at your authorized Mercedes­Benz dealer as soon as possible.

Driving the vehicle with varied size
tires will cause the wheels to rotate at
different speeds, therefore the
acceleration slip control will activate
(yellow ASR function indicator lamp in
instrument cluster comes on). For this
reason, all wheels, including the spare
wheel, must have the same tire size.

When testing the parking brake on a
brake test dynamometer, the key must
not be in steering lock position 2.
Otherwise, the acceleration slip control
will immediately be engaged and will
apply the rear wheel brakes.

In winter operation, the maximum
effectiveness of the acceleration slip
control can only be achieved with M +
S radial-ply tires recommended by
Mercedes-Benz.

The brake pad wear warning lamp
indicates brake pad wear for the front
as well as the rear brakes.

87

Snow chain switch

Driving with Snow Chains

When driving with snow chains, press
the symbol side of the snow chain
switch, located on the instrument panel
(the indicator lamp in the switch comes
on) to obtain maximum possible
traction.

This mode is effective at speeds up to
25 mph (40 km/h). It remains stored in
memory up to 37 mph (60 km/h) and
automatically engages again when the
vehicle speed drops below 25 mph (40
km/h).

The mode is canceled in memory
above 37 mph (60 km/h) and the
indicator lamp in the switch goes out.

To switch off: press lower half of
switch (the indicator lamp in the
switch goes out).

88

Adaptive Damping System
(ADS)

Adaptive Damping System
Adjustment

Depending upon road surface
conditions, load, driving style, ADS
will automatically adjust the optimal
ride firmness.

The indicator lamp comes on with the
key in steering lock position 2 and goes
out when the engine is running.
If the indicator lamp stays on after the
engine is running or comes on while
driving, then the system has detected a
malfunction.

We recommend that you visit an
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as
soon as possible to have the system
checked out.

Note:

If the power supply was interrupted
(battery disconnected or empty), the
indicator lamp will light up when the
engine is running.

Turn the steering wheel from full left
to full right lock position. The light
should go out.

The switch is located in the center
console.

1 Firm dampening program.

This setting should be used for
sporty driving.
During the setting for sporty
driving the indicator lamp in the
switch lights up.

2 Soft dampening program.

This setting should be used for
regular driving.

Note:

The firm damping program must be
selected again when restarting the
engine.

89

Emission Control

Warning!

On-Board Diagnostic System

Certain systems of the engine serve to
keep certain components of the exhaust
gases within permissible limits required
by law.

These systems, of course, will function
properly only when maintained strictly
according to factory specifications.
Any adjustments on the engine should,
therefore, be carried out only by
qualified Mercedes-Benz technicians.
Engine adjustments should not be
altered in any way. Moreover, the
specified service and maintenance jobs
must be carried out regularly according
to Mercedes-Benz servicing
requirements. For details refer to the
Maintenance Booklet.

Inhalation of exhaust gas is
hazardous to your health. All
exhaust gas contains carbon
monoxide, and inhaling it can cause
unconsciousness and lead to death.

Do not run the engine in confined
areas (such as a garage) which are
not properly ventilated. If you think
that exhaust gas fumes are entering
the vehicle while driving, have the
cause determined and corrected
immediately. If you must drive
under these conditions, drive only
with at least one window fully open.

The Sequential Multiport Fuel
Injection (SFI) control module
monitors emission control components
that either provide input signals to or
receive output signals from the control
module. Malfunctions resulting from
interruptions or failure of any of these
components are indicated by the
"CHECK ENGINE" malfunction
indicator lamp in the instrument cluster
and are simultaneously stored in the
SFI control unit.

If the "CHECK ENGINE." malfunc­tion indicator lamp comes on, have the
system checked at your authorized
Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as
possible.

An on-board diagnostic connector is
located on the engine compartment
firewall, allowing the accurate
identification of system malfunctions
through the readout of diagnostic
trouble codes.

90

Traveling Abroad

Abroad, there is a widely-spread
Mercedes-Benz service network at your
disposal. If you plan to travel into areas
which are not listed in the index of
your dealer directory, you should
request pertinent information from your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Winter Driving

Have your car winterized at your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer
before the onset of winter.

• Change the engine oil if the

engine contains an oil which is
not approved for winter operation.
For viscosity (SAE class) and
filling quantity, see

Capacities: Fuels, Coolants,
Lubricants etc. in Index.

• Check engine coolant

anticorrosion/antifreeze
concentration.

• Additive for the windshield washer
and headlamp cleaning system: Add
MB Concentrate "S" to a premixed
windshield washer solvent/
antifreeze which is formulated for
below freezing temperatures (see
Index).

• Test battery: Battery capacity drops
with decreasing ambient
temperature. A well charged battery
ensures that the engine can always
be started, even at low ambient
temperatures.

• Tires: We recommend M + S radial
tires on all four wheels for the
winter season. Observe permissible
maximum speed for M + S radial
tires and the legal speed limit.

Note:

In winter operation, the maximum
effectiveness of the acceleration slip
control or of the automatic locking
differential is only achieved with M +
S radial tires.

Snow Chains

Important!

Use of snow chains is permissible only
on wheel rim size 71/2J x 16 H 2.
Refer to "Rims - Tires" in section
Technical Data (see Index).

Use only snow chains that are tested
and recommended by Mercedes-Benz.
Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer
will be glad to advise you on this
subject.

Chains should only be used on the rear
wheels. Follow the manufacturer's
mounting instructions.

Snow chains should only be driven on
snow covered roads at speeds not to
exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). Remove
chains as soon as possible when
driving on roads without snow.

For tips on driving on slippery winter
roads, refer to Index.

When driving with snow chains,
press the snow chain switch, refer to
Index.

91

92

Practical Hints

93

Warning!

To help prevent personal injury, stay
clear of moving parts when the hood
is open and the engine is running.
Be sure the hood is properly closed
before driving.

The engine is equipped with a
transistorized ignition system.
Because of the high voltage it is
dangerous to touch any components
(ignition coil, distributor, spark plug
sockets, ignition cables, diagnostic
socket) of the ignition system

Hood

To open:

To unlock the hood, pull release lever
(1) under the driver's side of the
instrument panel. At the same time
handle (2) will extend out of the
radiator grill (it may be necessary to lift
the hood up slightly).

Caution!

To avoid damage to the windshield
wipers of hood, open the hood only
with wipers in the parked position.

Pull handle (2) completely out of
radiator grill and open hood (do not
pull up on handle),

To close:
Lower hood and let it drop into lock
from a height of approx. 1 ft (30 cm),
assisting with flat hands placed only on
edges of hood (3).

To avoid hood damage, if hood is not
fully closed, repeat closing procedure.

• with the engine running,

• while starting the engine,

• if the ignition is "on" and

the engine is turned
manually.

We recommend that you do not
open the hood, if you flames or
smoke coming from the engine
compartment.

94

Warning!

Adding Coolant.

Coolant reservoir of 600 SEC shown

Checking Coolant Level

To check the coolant level, the vehicle
must be parked on level ground and the
engine stopped.

Check coolantlevelonly when coolant is
cold.

The coolant should reach the top of the
tab inside the filler neck.

• Use extreme caution when
opening the hood if there are any
signs of steam or coolant leaking
from the cooling system.

• Do not remove pressure cap on
coolant reservoir if engine
temperature is above 194 °F
(90 °C). Allow engine to cool
down before removing cap. The
coolant reservoir contains hot
fluid and is under pressure,.

• Using a rag, turn cap to first
notch to relieve excess pressure.
If opened immediately, scalding
hot fluid and steam will be blown
out under pressure, possibly
causing personal injury.

• Do not spill antifreeze on hot
engine parts. Antifreeze contains
ethylene glycol which may burn if
it comes into contact with hot
engine parts. You can be
seriously burned

If coolant has to be added, a 50/50
mixture of water and MB
anticorrosion/antifreeze should be
added.

The drain plugs for the cooling system
are located on the right and left sides of
the engine block and at the bottom of
the radiator.

Anticorrosion/antifreeze, see
Coolants in Index.

95

Oil level must be between
the lower (min) and
upper(max) mark of the
dipstick

Do not overfill engine. Excessive oil
must be drained or siphoned.

For low engine oil level warning lamp,
see Index.

500 S

Checking Engine Oil Level

1 Oil dipstick
2 Oil filler cap

To check the engine oil level, park
vehicle on level ground, with engine at
normal operational temperature.

600 S

Check engine oil level approximately 5
minutes after stopping the engine,
allowing for the oil to return to the oil
pan.

Wipe oil dipstick clean prior to
checking the engine oil level.

96

Checking Automatic
Transmission Fluid Level

1 Break seal
2 Release
3 Engage

Regular automatic transmission fluid
level checks are not required. For this
reason the dipstick opening is sealed.

When noticing fluid loss or gear
shifting malfunctions, we recommend
to have your authorized Mercedes­Benz dealer check the transmission
fluid level.

The transmission fluid level should
only be checked with the engine
idling, parking brake engaged and
selector lever in position "P". The
vehicle must be parked on level
ground.

Prior to the check, allow engine to idle
for approx. 1 to 2 minutes.

Measure fluid level with the dipstick
completely inserted and the locking
lever released (1).

Extreme cleanliness must be observed!
To wipe the dipstick, use a clean, lint­free cloth.

To fill the transmission with fluid, pour
it through a fine-mesh filter into the
dipstick opening. Even the slightest
impurity may cause operational
troubles.

The level of the transmission fluid is
dependent upon its temperature. Two
sets of maximum and minimum fluid
level marks on the dipstick are
applicable references only if the
transmission fluid has either reached its
normal operating temperature of
176 °F (80 °C), or its temperature is
86 °F (30 °C).

Important!

The fluid level must not exceed the
dipstick maximum mark. Drain or
siphon excess fluid, if required.
Then push dipstick all the way in and
swing locking lever downward (3).

Note:

Damage to transmission caused by
contamination of transmission fluid or
overfilling of transmission may result
in serious transmission damage which
is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz
Limited Warranty.

97

Trunk Lamp

Spare Wheel, Lug Wrench

First Aid Kit

1 Switching off
2 Switching on

Switch off (1) trunk lamp if the trunk is
to remain open for along period of
time. This prevents the vehicle battery
from being discharged.
The lamp switches on automatically,
when you open the trunk again the next
time.
When you switch off the trunk lamp,
the trunk lid handle will also retract. To
close the trunk lid by its handle, first
switch on (2) the trunk lamp.

1 Trunk floor
2 Strap
3 Luggage bowl
4 Lug wrench

Roll back the floor mat. Lift the trunk
floor (1) and engage strap (2) in the
eyelet on the edge of the trunk lid.

To remove the spare tire, turn luggage
bowl (3) to the left and remove.

1 Opening lid

The first aid kit is stored in the shelf
below the rear window.

Stowing Things in the Vehicle

To help avoid personal injury during a
collision or sudden maneuver, exercise
care when stowing things. Put luggage
or cargo in the trunk if possible. Do
not pile luggage or cargo higher than
the seat backs. Do not place anything
on the shelf below the rear window.

98

Vehicle Jack

1 Jack arm
2 Jack base

See illustration for proper storage of
jack.

Before storing the jack on the felt in the
spare wheel well, the jack arm (1) must
be lowered almost to the base (2) of the
jack.

Warning!

The jack is designed exclusively for
jacking up the vehicle at the jack
tubes built into either side of the
vehicle. Use the jack only to lift the
vehicle during a wheel change. Never
get beneath the vehicle while it is
supported by the jack. Keep hands
and feet away from the area under
the lifted vehicle. Always firmly set
parking brake and block wheels
before raising vehicle with jack.

Do not disengage parking brake
while the vehicle is raised. Be certain
that the jack is always vertical when
in use, especially on hills. Always try
to use the jack on level surface. Be
sure that the jack arm is fully
inserted in the jack tube. Always
lower the vehicle onto sufficient
capacity jackstands before working
under the vehicle.

Vehicle Tools, Storage
Compartment below Tool Box

1 Lock tool box lid
2 Unlock tool box lid

To open the storage compartment: Lift
out tool box.

To insert the tool box: Position
rear end of tool box, press down
its front end.

99

Wheels

1 Wheel bolt for

71/2J x 16 H 2 wheel rim

2 Wheel bolt for

8 J x 16 H 2 wheel rim

Replace rims or tires with the same
designation, manufacturer and type as
shown on the original part. See your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for
further information.

Important!

The spare wheel rim size is 71/2J x
16 H 2.

In the case of a flat tire or breakdown,
you may temporarily use a 71/2J x 16
H 2 instead of the 8 J x 16 H 2 wheel
rim on the rear axle, when observing
the following restrictions:

• Use only the wheel bolts supplied in

the vehicle tool kit.

• Do not exceed vehicle speed of 50

mph (80 km/h).

• Drive to the nearest repair facility.

For additional information, refer to
"Technical Data".

Warning!

Do not mix different tire
construction types (i.e. radial,
bias, and bias-belted) on your car
because handling may be adversely
affected and may result in loss of
control.

See your authorized Mercedes-Benz
dealer for information on tested and
recommended rims and tires for
summer and winter operation. They
can also offer advice concerning tire
service and purchase.

Tire Replacement

Front tires should be replaced in sets.
Furthermore - in the event of tire
replacement - the spare wheel, if
possible, should be used on the rear
axle. Rims and tires must be of the
same size and type. For dimensions,
see "Technical Data".

We recommend that you break in new
tires for approx. 60 miles (100 km) at
moderate speed. It is imperative that
the wheel mounting bolts be
retightened after approx. 60-300 miles
(100-500 km).

100