Mercedes-Benz E-class 1998 User Manual

Important!

With selector lever in position "D", "4"
or "3", upshifting from 1st to 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 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).
To avoid overrevving the engine when
the selector lever is moved to a lower
driving range, the transmission will not
shift to a lower gear as long as the
vehicle speed exceeds the speed limit of
that gear.

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.

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.

Maneuvering

To maneuver in tight areas, e.g. when
pulling into a 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 malfunction indicator
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" and hold the
vehicle with the service brake.

When stopping the vehicle on an uphill
gradient, 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. Also,
when parked on an 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.

81

Program Mode Selector Switch

when

The transmission is provided with a
selector switch for Standard "S" and
Winter/Wet (snow and ice) "W"
program modes.

Warning!

Always be certain of the program mode
selected since the vehicle driving
characteristics change with the
selection of the program mode.

S Standard mode

Press switch on symbol "S". Use
this mode for all regular driving.
The vehicle starts out in 1st gear.

W Winter/Wet (snow and ice) mode

Press switch on symbol "W". The
vehicle starts out in 2nd gear,
except with selector lever in 1 st
gear, or with accelerator pedal in
kick-down position.

The "W" mode helps to improve
traction and driving stability of the
vehicle.

With hard acceleration the upshifts
occur at lower vehicle and engine
speeds than in the "S" program
mode.

Caution!

Never change the program mode
the selector lever is out of position "P".
It could result in a change of driving
characteristics for which you may not
be prepared

Emergency Operation

(Limp Home Mode)

If vehicle acceleration worsens, or the
transmission no longer shifts, the
transmission is most likely operating
in Limp Home Mode which engages
when there is a malfunction at the
transmission. This condition may be
accompanied by the "CHECK
ENGINE" malfunction indicator lamp
in the instrument cluster coming on.
In this mode only the 2nd gear or
reverse gear can be activated.

To engage 2nd gear or reverse:

1. Stop the vehicle.

2. Move selector lever to

position "P".

3. Turn off the engine.

4. Wait 10 seconds.

5. Restart the engine.

6. Move selector lever to

position "D" (for 2nd gear), or
move selector lever to
position "R" (for reverse gear).

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

82

mately 25

maintained with the

Cruise Control

Any given speed above approxi
mph (40 km/h) can be
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

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 speed can be increased (e.g. for
passing) by using the accelerator. After
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 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.

3 Canceling

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

When you step on the brake pedal
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 electronic key in
the steering lock is turned to
position 1 or 0.

83

Notes:
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.

Important!

Moving gear selector lever to position
"N" switches the cruise control off.

Warning!

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.

84

Parking Assist (Parktronic)
(optional)

The Parktronic assists the driver during
parking maneuvers at low speeds. It
visually and audibly indicates the
distance between the vehicle and an
obstacle.

The front area of the vehicle is
monitored when driving forward.
When reversing, the front as well as
the rear areas are monitored.

With the electronic key in steering lock
position 2, the Parktronic engages
automatically at speeds up to approx.
10 mph (15 km/h) and deactivates
during higher speeds.

The Parktronic can be switched off by a
control switch located in the center
console.

Warning!

Parktronic is a supplemental system.
It is not intended to nor does it
replace the need for extreme care.
The responsibility during parking
and other critical maneuvers rests
always with the driver.

Special attention must be paid to
objects having smooth surfaces or
low silhouettes (e.g. trailer couplings,
painted posts, or street curbs). Such
objects may not be detected by the
system and can damage the vehicle.
The operational function of the
Parktronic can be affected by dirty
sensors, especially at times of snow
and ice.

Interference caused by other
ultrasonic signals (e.g. working
jackhammers or the air brakes of
trucks) should be taken into
consideration.

Sensors

A total of 10 sensors monitor the
vehicle front and rear areas. Six sensors
are located in the front bumper, four in
the rear bumper.

1 Sensor located in bumper

For proper operation of the Parktronic
always keep the sensors clean.

Use a mild car wash detergent, such as
Mercedes-Benz approved Car
Shampoo, with plenty of water.
When using a steam cleaner or power
washer, aim nozzle only briefly from a
minimum distance of 4 in. (10 cm) at
sensors.

To prevent scratches, never apply
strong force or use a hard cloth when
cleaning the sensors. Do not attempt to
wipe dirty sensors with a dry cloth or
sponge.

85

Warning Indicators

1 Frame
2 Segments

Visual and audible signals indicate to
the driver the distance between the
vehicle and an obstacle.

Warning indicators for the front area
are located above the left and center air
outlets in the dashboard.

Warning indicator for the rear area are

integrated in the rear passenger
compartment lamp.

The frames are illuminated in white
when the Parktronic is engaged. Each
of the warning indicator has 6 yellow
and 2 red segments.

As soon as the sensors detect an
obstacle, one or more segments light
up, depending on the distance.

86

Monitoring reach of sensors
Front bumper:

center approx. 40 in (100 cm)
corner approx. 24 in (60 cm)

Rear bumper:

center approx. 48 in (120 cm)
corner approx. 32 in (80 cm)

The first yellow segment lights up at
above distance. Additional segments
light up as the vehicle comes closer to
the obstacle.

Minimum distance between vehicle

and obstacle.
front
corners approx. 6 in(15 cm)

center approx. 8 in(20 cm)
rear approx. 8 in(20 cm)

One or both red segments light up. In
addition, an alarm sounds for
approximately 3 seconds.
The obstacle may not be recognized if
outside the shaded sensor field, and no
longer be indicated when approaching
it any closer (warning indicator lights
go out).

Parktronic Switch

1 Parktronic switched off
2 Parktronic switched on
3 Indicator light - comes on when

Parktronic is switched off.
The switch is located on the center

console.

87

Parktronic Malfunction

electronic key in steering lock to position

displayed,

until the presently

All red segments of the warning
indicators light up, and a warning
sounds for 3 seconds, if Parktronic does
not function properly.

A dirty sensor could be the reason.
After cleaning the sensors, turn

2. If the defect continues to be
have the system checked at your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Multifunction Indicator

Language Selection

Warning message selection is available
in the English, French, German, Italian,
or Spanish language.

With the electronic key in steering lock
position 2, simultaneously press reset
buttons for Trip Odometer (O) and
Multifunction Indicator (R), located in
the instrument cluster,
selected language appears on the screen.

Press button O until the requested
language appears.

Turn the electronic key in steering lock
to position 0.

Multiple Malfunctions

When the multiple malfunction symbol
appears, this indicates that several
malfunction messages are stored in
memory.

Push reset button (R) in the instrument
cluster for subsequent messages.

Temporarily Switching Off

To temporarily switch off the
multifunction indicator warning
symbol and message, push reset button
(R) in the instrument cluster.

The multifunction indicator display is
inoperative until the electronic key in
steering lock is turned again to position
0 or 2.

The symbols and messages for Parking
Brake, Seat Belts, Exterior Lights, and
Display Defective cannot be switched
off.

Defective

When the message "Display Defective"
appears, this indicates that the system
is not operational, and possibly other
warnings cannot be shown.

Have the vehicle electronic system
checked at your authorized Mercedes­Benz dealer as soon as possible.

88

Charge Indicator

should

When the symbol and message appear
while the engine is running, this
indicates a fault which must be repaired
at an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer
immediately.

It 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 symbol
displayed. Doing so could result in
serious engine damage that is not
covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty.

Low Engine Oil Level Warning

When the symbol and message appear
while the engine is running and at
operating temperature, the engine oil
level has dropped to approximately the
minimum mark on the dipstick.

When this occurs, the warning will first

come on intermittently and then stay on
if the oil level drops further.
If no oil leaks are noted, 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
not be ignored. Extended driving with
the symbol displayed could result in
serious engine damage that is not
covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty.

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

Note:
E 300 Turbodiesel - Oil level check via

multifunction indicator not possible.
Engine Oil Consumption
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.

Fuel Reserve and Fuel Cap
Placement

Warning

When the symbol and message appear
after starting the engine, or if it comes
on while driving, it indicates that the
fuel level is down to the reserve
quantity of approximately: 2.6 gal (10
liters).

The warning lamp blinks when the fuel
cap is not closed, or a fuel system leak
has been detected. Retighten cap and
see if lamp goes out.

If the warning lamp continues to blink
after closing the fuel cap correctly,
have the fuel system checked at your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as
soon as possible.

Leaving the engine running and the fuel
cap open can cause the "Check Engine"
lamp to illuminate.

89

Tachometer

comes on, a

in the multifunction

Adaptation to ambient temperature takes

Red marking on tachometer: Excessive
engine speed.

Avoid this engine speed, as it may result
in serious 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.

Seat Belt Warning Lamp

With the electronic key in steering lock
position 2, the warning lamp
message is displayed
indicator, and a warning sounds for a
short time if the drivers 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.

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.).

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

Warning!

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

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

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.

90

Warning!

• 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.

• 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, get out of the car
and do not stand near the car until it
cools down.

Low Engine Coolant Level

Warning

When the symbol and message appear
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
should not be ignored. Extended
driving with the symbol displayed 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

When the symbol and message appear
while the engine is running, the level of
the reservoir has dropped to approx. 1/3
of 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 systems is located in
the engine compartment.

91

Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator

after starting the engine, or if it comes on

be certain to connect into the fuse before

When the symbol and message appear
while driving, this symbol indicates a

failure in the parking lamp, taillamps,
stop lamp, or low beam headlamp.

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

If a brake lamp fails, the lamp failure
indicator will come on when applying
the brake and stays on until the engine is
turned off.

Note:
If additional lighting equipment is

installed (e.g. auxiliary headlamps etc.)
the failure indicator monitoring unit in

order to avoid damaging the system.

Brake Pad Wear Indicator

When the symbol and message appear
during braking, this indicates that the
brake pads are worn down.

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

Brake Warning

When the brake warning lamp and
message appear while the engine is
running, this means:

• there is insufficient brake fluid in

the reservoir (engine running
and parking brake released), or

• the parking brake is set (engine

running).

Warning!

Driving with the brake warning
lamp illuminated 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.

Note:
If you find that the minimum mark on

the brake fluid reservoir is reached,
have the brake system checked for
brake pad thickness and leaks.

92