Mercedes-Benz E -Class Wagon 2003 User Manual

E-Class

Operator’s Manual

E320 E 320 4MATIC

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 help assure 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. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC A DaimlerChrysler Company

Introduction

Product information .......................... 7

Operator’s manual ............................. 8

Where to find it ................................ 13

Reporting Safety Defects ................ 15

Instruments and controls

Instruments and controls ............... 18

Center console ..............................20

Overhead control panel ............... 21

Operation

Vehicle keys ...................................... 24

Start lock-out ....................................26

General notes on the central

locking system .............................26

Central locking system ...................27

Radio frequency and infrared

remote control ..............................27

Opening and closing windows and sliding/pop-up roof from

outside ...........................................30

Panic button ..................................31

Mechanical keys ...........................31

Doors ................................................. 32

Central locking switch .................... 34

Automatic central locking .............. 35

Emergency unlocking in case of

accident ........................................ 35

Tailgate .............................................. 36

Antitheft alarm system ................... 39

Tow-away alarm ................................41

Power seats front ............................. 42

Front seat head restraints .............. 48

Rear seat head restraints ............... 49

Multicontour seat .............................51

Seat heater ........................................ 52

Seat ventilation ................................ 55

Seat belts and integrated restraint

system .......................................... 57

Seat belts .......................................... 57

Seat belt nonusage warning

system .......................................... 58

BabySmart

airbag deactivation

system .......................................... 65

Self-test BabySmart

without

special child seat installed .........65

Supplemental restraint

system (SRS) ................................ 66

Emergency tensioning

device (ETD) .................................67

Airbags ..............................................68

Safety guidelines for the seat belt,

emergency tensioning device and

airbag ............................................75

Infant and child restraint

systems .........................................77

Steering wheel adjustment ............81

Rear view mirrors ............................ 82

Instrument cluster ...........................86

Multifunction steering wheel,

multifunction display ................. 92

Trip and main odometer, vehicle

speed, FSS and engine oil level

display .......................................... 96

Audio systems ..................................97

Radio ..............................................97

CD player .......................................98

Cassette player .............................99

Telephone ........................................ 100

1Contents

2Contents

Telephone book ..........................100

Redialing ..................................... 102

Incoming call .............................. 104

Navigation system .......................... 105

Trip computer ................................. 106

Malfunction message memory ....108

Individual settings ..........................110

Setting the audio volume ...............113

Flexible service system (FSS) .......114

Engine oil level indicator ...............117

Engine oil consumption .................118

Exterior lamp switch ......................119

Night security Illumination .........120

Headlamp cleaning system .......... 121

Combination switch ......................122

Rear window wiper / washer ....... 124

Hazard warning flasher switch ...125

Automatic climate control ............ 126

Display and controls ..................128

Basic setting ................................129

Special settings ..........................129

Defogging windows ....................129

Defrosting ....................................129

Rear window defroster ..............130

Air distribution ...........................130

Air volume ...................................130

Air recirculation .........................131

Dust filter .....................................131

Activated charcoal filter ............132

Residual engine heat

utilization .....................................132

Front center console compartment

ventilation ....................................133

Rear passenger compartment

adjustable air outlet ...................134

Audio and telephone, operation ..135

Power windows ...............................154

Sliding / pop-up roof ......................157

Interior lighting ..............................159

Entrance lamps, exit lamps

in doors .......................................159

Reading lamps rear

compartment ..............................160

Sun visors ........................................161

Illuminated vanity mirrors ...........161

Interior .............................................162

Armrest, rear bench .......................162

Cup holder in rear bench

armrest ....................................... 162

Glove box ......................................... 163

Cup holder and coin holder in

glove box lid ................................ 163

Storage compartment above ashtray

in center console ....................... 164

Storage compartments in center

console ........................................ 164

Cup holder in center console ....... 165

Ashtrays .......................................... 166

Lighter ............................................. 168

Split rear bench seat ..................... 169

Rear-facing bench seat .................. 175

Loading instructions .....................177

Cargo tie-down rings ..................... 178

Parcel net in front passenger

footwell ....................................... 179

Cellular telephone .........................179

Garage door opener ....................... 180

Driving

Control and operation of radio

transmitters ............................... 186

The first 1 000 miles

(1 500 km) ................................. 187

Maintenance ................................... 187

Tele Aid ........................................... 188

Catalytic converter ........................198

Emission control ............................ 199

Steering lock ...................................200

Starting and turning off

the engine ..................................202

Automatic transmission ...............203

Parking brake ................................. 212

Driving instructions ...................... 213

Drive sensibly - Save Fuel ......... 213

Drinking and Driving ................213

Pedals ........................................... 213

Power assistance ........................ 214

Brakes .......................................... 214

Driving off ................................... 215

Parking ........................................ 216

Tires ............................................. 216

Snow chains ................................219

Winter driving instructions ......219

Block heater ................................ 221

Standing water ........................... 221

Passenger compartment ........... 221

Traveling abroad ........................ 221

Cruise control ................................ 222

Brake assist system (BAS) ............225

Antilock brake system (ABS) ....... 227

Four wheel electronic traction

system (4MATIC) ...................... 229

Electronic stability

program (ESP) ...........................230

Parking assist (Parktronic) .......... 234

What you should know at the gas

station ......................................... 239

Check regularly and before

a long trip .................................. 241

Instrument cluster display

Malfunction and indicator lamps in

the instrument cluster ............. 244

On-board diagnostic system ..... 244

Check engine malfunction

indicator lamp .............................244

Brake warning lamp ..................245

Supplemental restraint system

(SRS) indicator lamp ..................246

Fuel reserve and fuel cap

placement warning ....................246

Electronic stability program (ESP)

— warning lamp ..........................247

BAS / ESP malfunction indicator

lamp ..............................................247

ABS malfunction indicator

lamp ..............................................248

Seat belt warning lamp .............248

Malfunction and indicator lamp in

the center console .....................249

AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp .....249

Malfunction and warning messages

in the multifunction display ...250

DISPLAY DEFECTIVE ................ 251

BATTERY / ALTERNATOR .........252

ABS-SYSTEM ...............................253

BRAKE ASSIST ...........................253

BRAKE LINING WEAR ..............254

3Contents

4Contents

BRAKE FLUID .............................254

PARKING BRAKE .......................255

ENGINE FAN ...............................255

COOLANT (coolant level) ..........256

COOLANT TEMP. ........................257

LIGHTING SYSTEM ....................258

LIGHT SENSOR ...........................259

REMOVE KEY .............................259

STEERING GEAR OIL .................260

ENGINE OIL LEVEL ...................261

WASHER FLUID ..........................262

ELEC. STABIL. PROG. (Electronic

stability program) ......................263

TELE AID .....................................263

Practical hints

First aid kit .....................................266

Fuses ................................................267

Electrical outlet ..............................269

Hood .................................................270

Checking engine oil level .............273

Automatic transmission fluid

level ............................................. 274

Coolant level ....................................274

Adding coolant ........................... 275

Windshield and headlamp washer

system .........................................276

Windshield and headlamp washer

fluid mixing ratio .......................276

Spare wheel, vehicle tools, storage

compartment ............................. 277

Vehicle jack .................................... 278

Wheels ............................................ 279

Tire replacement ....................... 279

Rotating wheels ......................... 280

Spare wheel .................................... 281

Spare wheel bolts ...................... 281

Changing wheels ........................... 282

Tire inflation pressure .................287

Battery ............................................. 289

Jump starting ................................. 291

Towing the vehicle ........................ 294

Transmission selector lever,

manually unlocking ................. 296

Exterior lamps ...............................297

Headlamp assembly .................. 298

Taillamp assemblies .................. 301

Changing batteries in the

electronic key ............................304

Synchronizing remote control .306

Emergency engine shut-down .....306

Emergency operation of sliding /

pop-up roof .................................307

Manual release for fuel

filler flap ....................................308

Replacing wiper blade insert .......308

Roof rack ..........................................311

Vehicle care

Cleaning and care of the vehicle . 314

Power washer .............................. 315

Tar stains ..................................... 315

Paintwork, painted body

components ................................. 315

Engine cleaning .......................... 316

Vehicle washing ......................... 316

Ornamental moldings ................ 316

Headlamps, taillamps, turn signal

lenses ........................................... 316

Cleaning the parktronic system

sensors ......................................... 317

Window cleaning / glass

sunroof ......................................... 317

Wiper blades ............................... 317

Light alloy wheels ...................... 318

Instrument cluster ..................... 318

Steering wheel and gear selector

lever .............................................. 318

Cup holder ................................... 318

Seat belts ..................................... 318

Headliner ..................................... 318

Upholstery ................................... 319

Hard plastic trim items ............. 319

Plastic and rubber parts ............ 319

Technical data

Spare parts service ....................... 322

Warranty coverage ........................ 322

Identification labels ...................... 323

Layout of poly-V-belt drive ........... 324

Technical data ................................ 325

Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. -

capacities ................................... 328

Engine oils ...................................... 330

Engine oil additives ......................330

Air conditioner refrigerant .......... 330

Brake fluid ...................................... 330

Premium unleaded gasoline ........ 331

Fuel requirements ........................ 331

Gasoline additives ......................... 332

Coolants .......................................... 332

Consumer information ................. 334

Index

Index ................................................336

5Contents

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 Mercedes-Benz 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.

7Introduction

8Introduction

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 Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to demonstrate the proper procedures.

Service and warranty information

The 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,

• California, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont Emission Control System Warranty

(California, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont only),

• State Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon Laws).

Important notice for California retail buyers and lessees of Mercedes-Benz automobiles

Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price or lease price, if Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC and/or its authorized repair or service facilities fail to fix one ore more substantial defects or malfunctions in the vehicle that are covered by its express warranty after a reasonable number of repair attempts. During the period of 18 months from original delivery of the vehicle or the accumulation of 18 000 miles on the odometer of the vehicle, whichever occurs first, a reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed for a retail buyer or lessee if one or more of the following occurs: (1) the same substantial defect or malfunction results in a condition that is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle is driven, that defect or malfunction has been subject to repair two or more times, and you have directly notified Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC in writing of the need for its repair, (2) the same substantial defect or malfunction of a less serious nature than category (1) has been subject to repair four or more times and you have directly notified us in writing of the need for its repair, or (3) the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of the same or different substantial defects or malfunctions for a cumulative total of more than 30 calender days. Written notification should be sent to us, not a dealer, at MercedesBenz USA, LLC, Customer Assistance Center, One Mercedes Drive, Montvale, NJ 07645-0350.

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.

9Introduction

10Introduction

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-FOR-MERCedes (in the USA) 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada)

will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Customer 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.

Change of address or ownership

If you change your address, be sure to send in the “Change of Address Notice” found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or simply call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100. It is in your own interest that we can contact you should the need arise.

If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all literature with the vehicle to make it available to the next operator. If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in the “Notice of Purchase of Used Car” found in the Service and

Warranty Information Booklet, or call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.

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,

• unleaded gasoline for vehicles with catalytic converters may not be available; the use of leaded fuels will damage

the catalysts,

• gasoline may have a considerably lower octane rating, and improper fuel can cause engine damage.

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

In the USA: In Canada: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC

European Delivery Department One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350

Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. European Delivery Department 849 Eglinton Avenue East Toronto, Ontario M4G 2L5

11Introduction

12Introduction

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 Mercedes-Benz 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.

Where to find it

The Operator’s Manual is divided into eight sections:

• Instruments and controls: An overview of all the controls that can be operated from the driver’s seat.

•Operation: Information on the vehicle’s equipment and its operation.

•Driving: Important information on driving.

• Instrument cluster display: Displays and indicator lamps on the instrument cluster with brief instructions.

•Practical hints: Assistance and instructions in the event of an emergency.

•Car care: Instructions on caring for your vehicle.

•Technical data: All the important technical data for your vehicle as well as consumer information such as fuels,

coolants, lubricants etc. is contained here.

•Index: Key terms to help you find a topic quickly.

Other documents may also be supplied, depending on your vehicle’s equipment.

Explanation of color used:

Warning notices for the protection of yourself and others appear on red background.

13Introduction

14Introduction

Problems with your vehicle

If you should experience a problem with your vehicle, particularly one that you believe may affect its safe operation, we urge you to immediately contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center to have the problem diagnosed and corrected if required. If the matter is not handled to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem with the Mercedes-Benz Center management, or if necessary contact us at the following addresses:

In the USA: Customer Assistance Center

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350

In Canada: Customer Relations Department

Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. 849 Eglinton Avenue East Toronto, Ontario, M4G 2L5

For the USA only: The following text is published as required of manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”.

Reporting Safety Defects

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

15Introduction

Instruments and controls

Instruments and controls ............... 18

Center console ..............................20

Overhead control panel ............... 21

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

17Contents – Instruments and controls

Practical hints Car care Index

Techn ical

data

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instruments and controls

Instrument

cluster display

Practical hints Car care Index

Techn ical

data

18Instruments and controls

16 17 18 20

21 22

P68.10-2410-29

1 Parking assist warning indicators, see page 236 2 Side defroster outlet 3 Side air outlet, adjustable 4 Air volume control for side air outlet 5 Exterior lamp switch, see page 119 6 Parking brake release, see page 212 7 Hood lock release, see page 270 8 Combination switch, see page 122

9 Cruise control switch, see page 222 10 Instrument cluster, see page 86 11 Multifunction steering wheel, see page 92

Horn (with electronic key in steering lock position 1 or 2) Airbag, see page 68

12 Steering lock with ignition/starter switch,

seepage200

13 Voice control system lever, see separate operating

instructions

14 Center air outlets, adjustable

15 Air volume control for center air outlets 16 Left front seat heater switch, see page 52

Left front seat ventilation switch, see page 55

17 Headlamp washer switch, see page 121 18 Rear window wiper and washer switch, see page 124 19 Hazard warning flasher switch, see page 125 20 Central locking switch, see page 34 21 Tow-away alarm switch, see page 41

Indicator lamp for antitheft alarm system, seepage39

22 Right front seat heater switch, see page 52

Right front seat ventilation switch, see page 55

23 Glove box (illuminated with electronic key in

steering lock position 1 or 2)

24 Automatic climate control, see page 126

Rear window defroster switch Activated charcoal filter switch

25 Audio system, see page 135 26 Storage/eyeglasses compartment, see page 164

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

19Instruments and controls

Practical hints Car care Index

Techn ical

data

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

Practical hints Car care Index

20Instruments and controls

Center console 1 Ashtray with lighter, see page 166

2 ESP control switch, see page 232 3 Power window switches, front doors, see page 154 4 Power window safety switch, rear doors,

seepage155

5 Airbag Off indicator lamp, see page 249 6 Power window switches, rear doors, see page 154 7 Parktronic system deactivation switch, see page 238

8 Mirror adjustment switch, see page 82

Techn ical

data

7 8

P68.20-2258-27

Overhead control panel 1 Interior lighting, see page 159

2 Sliding/pop-up roof, see page 157 3 Rear view mirror, see page 82 4 Garage door opener, see page 180 5 Tele Aid (emergency call system), see page 188 6 Hands-free microphone for Tele Aid, telephone and

voice control system

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

21Instruments and controls

Practical hints Car care Index

Techn ical

data

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

Practical hints Car care Index

Techn ical

data

22Contents – Operation

Operation

Vehicle keys ...................................... 24

Start lock-out ....................................26

General notes on the central

locking system .............................26

Central locking system ...................27

Radio frequency and infrared

remote control ..............................27

Opening and closing windows and sliding/pop-up roof from

outside ...........................................30

Panic button .................................. 31

Mechanical keys ........................... 31

Doors ..................................................32

Central locking switch .................... 34

Automatic central locking .............. 35

Emergency unlocking in case of

accident ........................................35

Tailgate ..............................................36

Antitheft alarm system ...................39

Tow-away alarm ................................ 41

Power seats front .............................42

Front seat head restraints ..............48

Rear seat head restraints ............... 49

Multicontour seat .............................51

Seat heater ........................................ 52

Seat ventilation ................................ 55

Seat belts and integrated restraint

system .......................................... 57

Seat belts .......................................... 57

Seat belt nonusage warning

system .......................................... 58

BabySmart

airbag deactivation

system .......................................... 65

Self-test BabySmart

without

special child seat installed ......... 65

Supplemental restraint

system (SRS) ............................... 66

Emergency tensioning

device (ETD) ................................ 67

Airbags .............................................. 68

Safety guidelines for the seat belt,

emergency tensioning device and

airbag ........................................... 75

Infant and child restraint

systems ........................................ 77

Steering wheel adjustment .............81

Rear view mirrors ........................... 82

Instrument cluster ...........................86

Multifunction steering wheel,

multifunction display ................. 92

Trip and main odometer, vehicle

speed, FSS and engine oil level

display .......................................... 96

Audio systems ..................................97

Radio ..............................................97

CD player .......................................98

Cassette player .............................99

Telephone ........................................ 100

Telephone book .......................... 100

Redialing .....................................102

Incoming call ..............................104

Navigation system .......................... 105

Trip computer .................................106

Malfunction message memory ....108

Individual settings ..........................110

Setting the audio volume ..............113

Flexible service system (FSS) .......114

Engine oil level indicator ...............117

Engine oil consumption .................118

Exterior lamp switch ......................119

Night security Illumination .........120

Headlamp cleaning system .......... 121

Combination switch ......................122

Rear window wiper / washer ....... 124

Hazard warning flasher switch ...125

Automatic climate control ............ 126

Display and controls ..................128

Basic setting ................................129

Special settings ..........................129

Defogging windows ....................129

Defrosting ....................................129

Rear window defroster ..............130

Air distribution ........................... 130

Air volume ................................... 130

Air recirculation ......................... 131

Dust filter .................................... 131

Activated charcoal filter ............132

Residual engine heat

utilization .................................... 132

Front center console compartment

ventilation ...................................133

Rear passenger compartment

adjustable air outlet ................... 134

Audio and telephone,

operation ....................................135

Power windows ...............................154

Sliding / pop-up roof ......................157

Interior lighting ..............................159

Entrance lamps, exit lamps

in doors .......................................159

Reading lamps rear

compartment ..............................160

Sun visors ........................................161

Illuminated vanity mirrors ...........161

Interior .............................................162

Armrest, rear bench .......................162

Cup holder in rear

bench armrest ............................162

Glove box .........................................163

Cup holder and coin holder in

glove box lid .................................163

Storage compartment above ashtray

in center console .......................164

Storage compartments in center

console ........................................164

Cup holder in center console ....... 165

Ashtrays .......................................... 166

Lighter ............................................. 168

Split rear bench seat ..................... 169

Rear-facing bench seat .................. 175

Loading instructions .....................177

Cargo tie-down rings ..................... 178

Parcel net in front passenger

footwell ....................................... 178

Cellular telephone .........................179

Garage door opener ....................... 180

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

23Contents – Operation

Practical hints Car care Index

Techn ical

data

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

Practical hints Car care Index

Techn ical

data

24Central locking system

Vehi cle keys

Included with your vehicle are 2 electronic keys with integrated radio frequency and infrared remote controls plus removable mechanical key.

The locking tabs for the mechanical key portion of the two electronic keys are a different color to help distinguish it.

Warning ! When leaving the vehicle, always remove the

electronic key from the steering lock, and lock your vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Electronic key

When using the mechanical key (2) for lock operations, it can be removed by sliding it out of the remote control. To do so, move locking tab (3) to the right and slide the mechanical key (2) in direction of arrow (4).

The remote control transmitter is located in the electronic key.

The infrared receivers are located in the front door handles.

Instruments and controls

P80.35-2030-26

The electronic key has an integrated radio frequency and infrared remote control, plus removable mechanical key.

The remote control (1) operates all locks on the vehicle. The mechanical key (2) works only in the driver’s door,

tailgate, and storage compartment locks.

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

Notes: Remove the mechanical key from the electronic key

when using valet parking service. To prevent access to storage compartments lock them separately and retain the mechanical key.

See page 36 for separate locking of tailgate and page 163 for locking of glove box.

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 Center.

25Central locking system

Practical hints Car care Index

Techn ical

data

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

Practical hints Car care Index

26Central locking system

Techn ical

data

Start lock-out

Important!

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

Inserting the electronic key in the steering lock deactivates the start lock-out.

Note: In case the engine cannot be started (vehicle’s battery is

in order), the system is not operational. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call 1-800-FORMERCedes (in the USA), or 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada).

General notes on the central locking system

If the electronic key is inserted in the steering lock, the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked with the remote control.

If the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked:

• Aim transmitter eye at a receiver of either front door

handle. Check the batteries of the electronic key, see page 304, or synchronize the remote control, see page 306.

• Use the mechanical key to unlock the vehicle. To

start engine, insert the electronic key in the steering lock. There could be a slight delay until the electronic key can be turned in the steering lock.

Important!

When unlocking the driver’s door with the mechanical key, the exterior lamps will flash and the alarm will sound.

To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the steering lock or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic key.

Central locking system

Radio frequency and infrared remote control

The electronic key has an integrated radio frequency and infrared remote control.

Due to the extended operational range of the remote control, it could be possible to unintentionally lock or unlock the vehicle by pressing the transmit button. If one of the transmit buttons is pressed, the battery check lamp lights up briefly – indicating that the batteries are in order. See page 304 for checking batteries.

The vehicle doors, tailgate and fuel filler flap can be centrally locked and unlocked via remote control.

Opening and closing the windows and sliding / pop-up roof remotely can only be done with the infrared portion of the remote control. Aim transmitter eye at a receiver (6 or 7), press and hold transmit button Œ or ‹.

If the electronic key is inserted in steering lock, the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked with the remote control.

P80.35-2033-26

1 Transmit button

‹ Locking Œ Unlocking

2 Lamp for battery check (see page 304 for changing

batteries if it does not light up briefly)

3 PANI C b utton 4 Transmitter eye 5 Locking tab for mechanical key

27Central locking system

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28Central locking system

P80.30-2137-26

P80.30-2138-26

6 Infrared receiver in driver’s door handle 7 Infrared receiver in front passenger door handle

Locking and unlocking with remote control

Unlocking: Press transmit button Œ. All turn signal lamps blink

once to indicate that the vehicle is unlocked. The remote control can be programmed for two kinds of

unlocking modes (see below): Selective unlocking mode –

Press transmit button Œ once to unlock driver’s door and fuel filler flap. Press transmit button Œ twice to unlock all doors, fuel filler flap, and tailgate.

Global unlocking mode – Press transmit button Œ once to unlock all doors, fuel filler flap, and tailgate.

Notes: If the tailgate was previously locked separately, it will

remain locked, seepage36. The presently active unlocking mode (selective or

global) can only be determined by unlocking the vehicle with the remote control (see below for changing mode).

If within 40 seconds of unlocking with the remote control, neither door nor tailgate is opened, the electronic key is not inserted in the steering lock, or the central locking switch is not activated, the vehicle will automatically lock.

Locking: Press transmit button ‹ once. All turn signal lamps

blink three times to indicate that the vehicle is locked. If they do not blink three times, a door or tailgate is not

properly closed.

Note: If the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked by pressing

the transmit button, then it may be necessary to change the batteries in the electronic key (if ok, battery check lamp in electronic key will light briefly when pressing transmit button) or to synchronize the remote control, see pages 304 and 306.

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Choosing global or selective mode on remote control

Press and hold transmit buttons ‹ and Œ simultaneously for five seconds to reprogram the remote control. Battery check lamp will blink two times indicating the completed mode change.

Opening and closing windows and sliding/pop-up roof from outside (summer opening/convenience feature)

Aim transmitter eye of remote control at a door receiver.

Summer opening:

Continue to press transmit button Œ after unlocking the vehicle.

The windows and sliding/pop-up roof begin to open after approximately 1 second.

To interrupt opening procedure, release transmit button.

Convenience feature:

Continue to press transmit button ‹ after locking the vehicle.

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

To interrupt closing procedure, release transmit button. Ensure that all side windows and the sliding/pop-up

roof are properly closed before leaving the vehicle.

Warning ! Never operate the windows or sliding/pop-up roof

if there is the possibility of anyone being harmed by the opening or closing procedure.

In case the procedure causes potential danger, the procedure can be immediately halted by releasing the remote control button. To reverse direction of movement, press Œ for opening or ‹ for closing.

Note: If the windows and sliding/pop-up roof cannot be

operated automatically by pressing the transmit button of the remote control then it may be necessary to change the batteries in the electronic key (if ok, battery check lamp in electronic key will light briefly when transmitting), or to synchronize the remote control, see page 304 and 306.

Panic button

Note: For operation in the USA only: This device complies

with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,

including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Any unauthorized modification to this device could void to the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Instruments and controls

P80.35-2034-26

To activate press and hold button (1) for at least one second. An audible alarm and blinking exterior lamps will operate for approximately 3 minutes.

To deactivate press button (1) again, or insert electronic key in steering lock.

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Mechanical keys

The mechanical keys work only in the driver’s door, tailgate, and storage compartment locks.

Notes: The mechanical key does not operate the central locking

system or antitheft alarm system. The fuel filler flap cannot be locked or unlocked with

the mechanical key. If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, see page 308.

31Central locking system

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32Central locking system

P72.10-2240-26

1 Opening – pull handle 2 Unlocking driver’s door 3 Locking driver’s door 4 Individual door from inside:

Push lock button down to lock.

Important!

The mechanical key does not operate the central locking system or antitheft alarm system.

5 Front door from inside:

Pull handle to unlock.

When you lock the driver’s door with the mechanical key, the door lock button should move down.

Each individual door must be locked with the respective door lock button – the driver’s door can only be locked when it is closed.

If the vehicle has previously been locked from the outside, opening a door from the inside will trigger the alarm. When opening a door while the central locking system is in the:

• selective unlocking mode, only that individual door

is unlocked. The remaining doors, the tailgate and fuel filler flap remain locked.

• global unlocking mode, all doors, the tailgate and

fuel filler flap are unlocked.

Notes: In case of a malfunction in the central locking system

the doors can be locked and unlocked individually. To lock, push down lock buttons and turn mechanical

key in driver’s door lock to position 3. In addition lock the tailgate.

To unlock, pull inside door handles or turn mechanical key in driver’s door lock to position 2.

Rear doors can only be opened from inside by first pulling up on the door lock button.

When unlocking the driver’s door with the mechanical key, the exterior lamps will flash and the alarm will sound.

To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the steering lock or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic key.

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Central locking switch

1 Locking 2 Unlocking

The central locking switch is located in the center console.

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

If the vehicle was previously locked with the central locking switch, while in the selective remote control mode, only the door opened from the inside is unlocked.

If the vehicle was previously locked with the central locking switch, while in the global remote control mode, the complete vehicle is unlocked when a front door is opened from the inside.

Notes: If the vehicle was previously locked with the remote

control, the doors and tailgate cannot be unlocked with the central locking switch.

The fuel filler flap cannot be locked or unlocked with the central locking switch.

If the vehicle has previously been locked from the outside, opening a door from the inside will trigger the alarm. To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the steering lock or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic key.

Warning ! When leaving the vehicle, always remove the

Automatic central locking

The central locking switch also operates the automatic central locking.

With the automatic central locking system activated, the doors and trunk are locked at vehicle speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/ h) or more. The fuel filler flap remains unlocked.

To activate: With electronic key in steering lock position 2 hold

upper portion of switch (1) for a minimum of 5 seconds.

To deactivate: With electronic key in steering lock position 2 hold

lower portion of switch (2) for a minimum of 5 seconds.

Notes: If doors are unlocked with the central locking switch

after activating the automatic central locking, and neither door is opened, then the doors remain unlocked even at vehicle speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or more.

If a door is opened from the inside at speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or less with the automatic central locking activated, the door will again be automatically locked at speeds of approximately 9mph (15km/h) or more.

Important!

When towing the vehicle, or with the vehicle on a dynamometer test stand, please, note the following:

With the automatic central locking activated and the electronic key in steering lock position 2, the vehicle doors will lock if the left front wheel as well as the right rear wheel spin at vehicle speeds of approximately 9mph (15km/h) or more.

To prevent the vehicle door locks from locking, deactivate the automatic central locking.

Emergency unlocking in case of accident

The doors unlock automatically a short time after a strong deceleration is detected, such as in a collision (this is intended to aid rescue and exit).

Driving on rough roads may cause the vehicle to unlock. If necessary, the vehicle can be locked again with the central locking switch, see page 34.

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36Central locking system

The lock is located in the license plate recess.

0 Neutral position 1 Unlocking 2 Locking

3 Recessed handle 4 Lock button

5 Grip molding 6 Lock 7 Recessed handle

To close the tailgate, pull down on inside grip (8) and press down on outside grip molding (5) until the tailgate latch engages. It is not necessary to slam the tailgate closed, a power-assisted mechanism will draw the tailgate quietly and automatically.

37Central locking system

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Important!

In case of danger, the closed tailgate can be opened with the inside or outside handle.

Only drive with the tailgate closed as otherwise exhaust fumes may enter the vehicle interior.

Wa rn in g! To prevent possible personal injury, always keep

hands and fingers away from the tailgate opening when closing the tailgate. Be especially careful when small children are around.

To prevent personal injury, never activate the closing assist mechanism by tampering with the tailgate latch.

In case the closing procedure causes potential danger, the closing procedure can be immediately halted by pulling the outside recessed handle.

Notes: In case of a malfunction in the central locking system

the tailgate can be locked and unlocked individually. To unlock, turn mechanical key in lock to position 1, or

push lock button to position 1, see page 36. To lock, turn mechanical key in lock to position 2, or

push lock button to position 2, see page 36. The rear compartment lamp will be switched off by the

contact switch only if the tailgate is fully closed. When opening the tailgate completely, always make sure

that there is sufficient overhead clearance. When unlocking the tailgate with the mechanical key,

the exterior lamps will flash and the alarm will sound. To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the

steering lock or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic key.

If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, see page 308.

Antitheft alarm system

The antitheft alarm is automatically armed or disarmed with the remote control by locking or unlocking the vehicle.

The antitheft alarm is armed within approximately 15 sec ond s a fter l ock ing th e ve hic le .

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

Instruments and controls

1 Indicator lamp in switch located in center console

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Operation: Once the alarm system has been armed, the exterior

vehicle lamps will flash and an alarm will sound when someone:

• opens a door,

• opens the tailgate,

• opens the hood,

• attempts to raise the vehicle.

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40Antitheft alarm system

The alarm will last approximately 3 minutes in form of flashing exterior lamps. At the same time an alarm will sound for 30 seconds. The alarm will stay on even if the activating element (a door, for example) is immediately closed. If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically. See Tele Aid on page 188.

Notes: When you unlock the driver’s door with the mechanical

key, the exterior lamps will flash and the alarm will sound.

To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the steering lock or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic key.

Tow-away alarm

The switch is located in the center console.

1 Press to switch off 2 Indicator lamp

Once the alarm system has been armed, the exterior vehicle lamps will flash and an alarm will sound when someone attempts to raise the vehicle.

The alarm will last approximately 3 minutes in form of flashing exterior lamps. At the same time an alarm will sound for 30 seconds. The alarm will stay on even if the vehicle is immediately lowered. To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the steering lock or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic key.

If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically. See Tele Aid on page 188.

To prevent triggering the tow-away alarm feature, switch off the tow-away alarm before towing the vehicle, or when parking on a surface subject to movement, such as a ferry or auto train.

To do so, turn electronic key in steering lock to position 0 or 1, or remove electronic key from steering lock. Press tow-away alarm switch (1). The indicator lamp (2) illuminates briefly.

Exit vehicle, and lock vehicle with the remote control. The tow-away alarm remains switched off until the

vehicle is locked again with the electronic key, at which time it is automatically reactivated.

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Power seats front

Wa rn in g! 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 backrest 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 backrest and seat belt provide the best restraint when the wearer is in an upright position and the belt properly positioned on the body.

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

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the electronic key from the steering lock, and lock your vehicle.

The power seats can also be operated with the driver’s or front passenger door open. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.

To operate the front power seat adjustment switches, turn electronic 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 electronic key removed or in steering lock position 0).

allows you to reach the accelerator/brake pedal safely. The position should be as far rearward as

possible, consistent with ability to properly operate controls.

Instruments and controls

P54.00-2074-26

The slide switches are located in each front door.

We recommend to adjust the power seat in the following order:

1 Seat, up/down

Press the switch (up/down direction) until comfortable seating position with still sufficient headroom is reached.

2 Seat adjustment, fore/aft

Press the switch (fore/aft direction) until a comfortable seating position is reached that still

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3 Seat cushion tilt

Press the switch in the direction of the arrow until your legs are lightly supported.

4 Backrest tilt

Press the switch in the direction of the arrow until your arms are slightly angled when holding the steering wheel.

5 Head restraint

The height of the head restraint is adjusted automatically with the seat so that the back of the head is supported approximately at ear level. Adjust the head restraint using the switch if the preset position does not support the back of your head approximately at ear level.

Adjust the head restraint angle by hand.

Note: Your vehicle is equipped with power head restraints,

do not try to raise or lower them manually.

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44Seats

Synchronizing head restraints

If the power supply was interrupted (battery disconnected or empty), the head restraints are no longer adjusted automatically.

To resynchronize the adjustment feature, turn electronic key in steering lock to position 2, move the seat completely forward and the head restraint fully down, and hold respective buttons for approximately two seconds.

Caution!

Do not remove head restraints except when mounting seat covers. For removal refer to Head Restraints, Front, see page 48. Whenever restraints have been removed be sure to reinstall them before driving.

Memory function

P54.00-2075-26

6 Memory button 7 Position buttons

Wa rn in g! Do not activate the memory function while driving.

Activating the memory function while driving could cause the driver to lose the control of the vehicle.

Storing positions into memory

Three sets of seat/head restraint/steering wheel and exterior rear view mirror positions may be programmed into memory. After the seat/ head restraint/steering wheel and exterior rear view mirrors are positioned, push memory button (6), release, and within 3 seconds push position button “1”. A second and third set of positions for the same seat/head restraint/steering wheel and exterior rear view mirrors can be programmed into memory by pushing first memory button (6) and then “2”, respectively “3”.

Note: For instructions on adjustment of steering wheel and

mirrors, see Page 81 and 82.

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Recalling positions from memory

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

Caution!

Do not operate the power seats using the memory button if the seat backrest is in an excessively reclined position. Doing so could cause damage to front or rear seats.

First move the backrest to an upright position.

Important!

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

In addition, also adjust the steering wheel to ensure adequate control, reach, operation, and comfort.

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.

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

Wa rn in g! Children 12 years old and under must never ride in

the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmart which operates with the BabySmart

compatible child seat,

system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passengerside front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury can result.

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in the back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt and top tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions.

A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

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Front seat head restraints

P82.40-2009-26

Removal: Push button (1) up to bring the power adjustable head

restraint to its highest position. Pull out head restraint completely with both hands.

Installation: Push button (1) of the power adjustable head restraint

up for approximately 5 seconds. Insert the head restraint and push it down to the stop. Adjust head restraint to the desired position.

For positioning of head restraints, see page 42 and 49.

Warning ! For your protection, drive only with properly

positioned head restraints. Adjust head restraint to support the back of the

head approximately at ear level. Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head

restraints. Head restraints are intended to help reduce injuries during an accident.

Rear seat head restraints

P91.16-2019-26

1 Head restraint release

Raising: Pull up on head restraint.

Lowering: Push head restraint release and push down on head restraint.

Angle of head restraints: The head restraint angle can be adjusted manually.

Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level.

Important!

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

Rear seat head restraint, removal

Removal: Pull head restraint to its highest position. Push button (1) and pull head restraint out.

Installation: Insert the head restraint and push it down to the stop. Adjust head restraint to the desired position.

Warning ! For your protection, drive only with properly

positioned head restraints. Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head

restraints. Head restraints are intended to help reduce injuries during an accident.

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50Seats

Rear seat head restraint, storage For improved rear vision, the head restraint for the rear

bench center seat can be removed if the seat is not occupied.

To do so, remove head restraint (1) and store in bracket (2) under seat cushion.

P91.16-2069-26

Multicontour seat (optional)

P91.25-2025-26

We recommend to adjust the multicontour seat in the following order:

1 Seat cushion depth 2 Backrest bottom 3 Backrest center 4 Side bolster adjustment

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

The seat cushion movement and amount of backrest cushion height and curvature can be continuously varied with regulators (1, 2 and 3) after turning the electronic key in steering lock to position 2.

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

• press to the right – increase side support,

• press to the left – 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.

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Seat heater

The seat heaters can be switched on with the electronic key in steering lock positions 1 or 2.

Notes: When in operation, the seat heater consumes a large

amount of electrical power. It is not advisable to use the seat heater longer than necessary.

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

Vehi cles with out sea t ven til ati on

Press switch to turn on seat heater:

1 Normal seat heating mode. One indicator lamp in

the switch lights up.

2 Rapid seat heating mode. Both indicator lamps in

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

Instruments and controls

P54.25-2036-26

The front seat heater switches are located in the center console.

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Turning off seat 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 seat heater automatically turns off after

approximately 30 minutes of operation.

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Vehi cles with sea t ven til ati on (optional)

The front seat heater switches are located in the center console.

Rapid heating mode: Press button (3) once. Both red indicator lamps above the button light up.

The system switches over to normal heating mode automatically after approximately 5 minutes.

Normal heating mode: Press button (3) twice. One red indicator lamp above the button lights up.

The seat heater will be automatically switched off after approximately 30 minutes.

Turning off the heater: Press the button (3) again. The indicator lamps go out. The seat heater is switched off.

Seat ventilation (optional)

Level 3 ventilation setting (maximum): Press button (1). Three blue indicator lamps beside the button light up.

Level 2 ventilation setting (middle): Press button (1) again. Two blue indicator lamps beside the button light up.

Level 1 ventilation setting (minimum): Press button (1) again. One blue indicator lamp beside the button lights up.

Instruments and controls

The front seat ventilation switches are located in the center console.

Turn the electronic key in steering lock to position 1 or 2.

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Turning off seat ventilation: If one blue indicator lamp is on, press button (1) once. If two blue indicator lamps are on, press button (1)

twice. If three blue indicator lamps are on, press button (1)

three times.

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Notes: When in operation, the seat ventilation consumes a

large amount of electrical power. It is not advisable to use the seat ventilation longer than necessary.

The seat ventilation 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, one or more indicator lamps in the switch will blink.

The seat ventilation will switch on again automatically as soon as sufficient voltage is available.

If the blinking indicator lamps pose a distraction, the seat ventilation can be switched off.

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Seat belts and integrated restraint system

Your vehicle is equipped with seat belts for all seats, emergency tensioning devices for all outboard seat belts, dual front airbags, door mounted side impact airbags and head protective window curtain airbags. Their protective functions are designed to complement one another.

Seat belts

Important

Laws in most states and all Canadian provinces require seat belt use.

All U.S. states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces require the use of child restraints that comply with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and Canadian Motor Vehic le Safety Standard 213.

For your safety and that of your passengers we strongly recommend their use.

Warning ! Children 12 years old and under must never ride in

the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmart which operates with the BabySmart

compatible child seat,

system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result.

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt and top tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions.

A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

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Wa rn in g! Never ride in a moving vehicle with the backrest

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 backrest and seat belt provide the best restraint when the wearer is in an upright position and the belt is properly positioned on the body.

Note: For cleaning and care of the seat belts, see page 318.

Seat belt nonusage warning system

With the electronic 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 are much more likely to hit the interior of the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed.

In the same crash, the possibility of injury or death is lessened if you ar wearing your seat belt.

Warning ! Never let more people ride in the vehicle than there

are seat belts available. Be sure everyone riding in the vehicle is correctly restrained with a separate seat belt.

Fastening of seat belts

1 Latch plate 2 Buckle 3 Release button

Push latch plate (1) into buckle (2) until it clicks. Do not twist the belt. A twisted seat belt may cause injury.

To help avoid severe or fatal injuries, the lap belt should be positioned as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdomen.

Warning ! Always fasten your seat belt before driving off.

Always make sure your passengers are properly restrained – even those sitting in the rear.

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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.

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4 Button for belt outlet height adjustment

Raising: Slide belt outlet upward.

Lowering: Press button (4) and slide belt outlet downward.

Adjust seat belt so that shoulder portion is located as close as possible to the middle of your shoulder (it should not touch the neck). For this purpose, you can adjust the height of the belt outlet. Three positions are available for the front seats, five positions are available for the split rear bench seats.

Caution!

For safety reasons, avoid adjusting the seat or seat back into positions which could affect the correct seat belt positioning.

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.

Rear-facing bench seat

If the rear-facing bench seat is not being used, slip the seat belt webbings into the retainers (5).

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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).

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.

Warning ! USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY.

• Seat belts can only work when used properly. Never wear seat belts in any other way than as described in this section, as that could result in serious injuries in case of an accident.

• Each occupant should wear their seat belt at all times, because seat belts help reduce the likelihood of and potential severity of injuries in accidents, including rollovers. The integrated restraint system includes SRS (driver airbag, front passenger airbag, front and rear door mounted side impact airbags, head protection window curtain airbags for side windows), ETD (seat belt Emergency Tensioning Device ), and front seat knee bolsters. The system is designed to enhance the protection offered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal (front airbags) and side (side impact and window curtain airbags) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds.

• Never wear belts over rigid or breakable objects in or on your clothing, such as eyeglasses, pens, keys etc., as these might cause injuries.

• 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.

• Never wear the shoulder belt under your arm, against your neck or off your shoulder. In a crash, your body would move too far forward. That would increase the chance of 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.

• 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 another person or other objects.

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

•Pregnant women should also use a lapshoulder belt. The lap belt portion should be positioned as low as possible on the hips to avoid any possible pressure on the abdomen.

• Never place your feet on the instrument panel or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

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Wa rn in g! USE CHILD RESTRAINTS PROPERLY. Children 12 years old and under must never ride in

the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmart which operates with the BabySmart

compatible child seat,

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt and top tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions.

A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

BabySmart

Special BabySmart

airbag deactivation system

compatible child seats, designed for use with the Mercedes-Benz system and available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center are required for use with the BabySmart

airbag deactivation system.

With the special child seat properly installed, the passenger front airbag will not deploy. The 7 indicator lamp located on the center console will be illuminated, except with electronic key removed or in steering lock position 0. The system does not deactivate the door mounted side impact airbag and the window airbag.

Self-test BabySmart

without special child seat installed

After turning electronic key in steering lock to position 1 or 2, the 7 indicator lamp located on the center console comes on for approximately 6 seconds and then extinguishes.

If the indicator lamp should not come on or is continuously lit, the system is not functioning. You must see an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center before seating any child on the front passenger seat.

BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens Automotive Corp.

Warning !

The BabySmart

airbag deactivation system will ONLY work with a special child seat designed to operate with it. It will not work with child seats which are not BabySmart

compatible.

Never place anything between seat cushion and child seat (e.g. pillow), since it reduces the effectiveness of the deactivation system.The bottom of the child seat must make full contact with the passenger seat cushion. An incorrectly mounted child seat could cause injuries to the child in case of ar accident instead of protecting the child.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation of special child seats.

When using a BabySmartTM compatible child seat on the front passenger seat, the front passenger airbag will not deploy only if the 7 indicator lamp remains illuminated.

Please be sure to check the indicator every time you use the special system child seat.

Should the light go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. If the light remains out, do not use the BabySmart

restraint to transport children on the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

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Supplemental restraint system (SRS)

Airbags are intended as a supplement to seat belts. Airbags alone cannot protect as well as airbags plus seat belts in impacts for which the airbags were designed to operate, and do not afford any protection whatsoever in crashes for which the airbags are not designed to deploy.

The SRS uses two crash severity levels (thresholds) to activate either the Emergency Tensioning Device (ETD) or front airbag or both. Activation depends on the direction and severity of the impact exceeding the preset thresholds and whether the seat belt is fastened.

Seat belt fastened

• first threshold exceeded:

ETD activates

• second threshold exceeded:

airbag also activates Seat belt not fastened Front seats:

• first threshold exceeded:

airbag activates, but not ETD Rear outer seats:

• first threshold exceeded:

ETD activates Driver, front passenger and rear outer seat systems

operate independently of each other.

Emergency tensioning device (ETD)

The seat belts for the front and outer rear seats are equipped with emergency tensioning devices. These tensioning devices are located in each belt’s inertia reel and become operationally ready with the electronic key in steering lock position 1 or 2.

The ETDs for the driver and front seat passenger are designed to activate only when the seat belts are fastened and during certain frontal impacts exceeding the first threshold of the SRS and in rear impacts exceeding a preset severity level. They remove slack from the belts in such a way that the seat belts fit more snugly against the body restricting its forward movement as much as possible.

The rear seat belt ETDs will deploy in the same circumstances whether or not the seat belts are fastened.

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

For seat belt and emergency tensioning device safety guidelines, see page 75.

Note: The front ETD activates only if the front seat is occupied

and the seat belt is fastened. Objects heavier than 20 lbs (9 kg) on the front

passenger seat can appear to the SRS to indicate the presence of an occupant in that seat which causes the passenger front airbag to deploy and the ETD to activate in a crash exceeding the appropriate threshold.

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Airbags

1 Driver airbag 2 Front passenger airbag

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

In conjunction with wearing the seat belts, the driver and front passenger airbags can provide increased protection for the driver and front passenger in certain frontal impacts exceeding preset thresholds.

Door mounted side impact and head protection window curtain airbags can provide increased protection to belted outboard occupants on the impacted side of the vehicle in side impacts exceeding its preset threshold.

The operational readiness of the airbag system is verified by the indicator lamp SRS in the instrument cluster when turning the electronic key in steering lock to position 1 or 2. 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. If the lamp does not

P91.60-2248-27

come on at all or if it fails to extinguish after approximately 4 seconds or if it comes on thereafter, a malfunction in the system has been detected.

The following system components are monitored or undergo a selfcheck: crash-sensor(s), airbag ignition circuits, front seat belt buckles, emergency tensioning devices, seat sensor.

Initially, when the electronic key is turned from steering lock position 0 to position 1 or 2, malfunctions in the crash-sensors are detected and indicated (the SRS indicator lamp stays on longer than 4 seconds or does not come on).

Have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately.

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

Warning ! In the event a malfunction of the SRS is indicated

as outlined above, the SRS may not be operational. For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer immediately to have the system checked; otherwise the SRS may not be activated when needed in an accident, which could result in serious or fatal injury, or it might deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could also result in injury.

Note: See page 246 for information on the Supplemental

Restraint System (SRS) indicator lamp.

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Front airbags

The driver and passenger front airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal impacts exceeding a preset threshold.

The front passenger airbag deploys only if the front passenger seat is occupied and the 7 indicator lamp on the center console is not illuminated.

Note: Objects heavier than 20 lbs (9kg) on the front passenger

seat can appear to the SRS to indicate the presence of an occupant in that seat which causes the passenger front airbag to deploy in a crash exceeding the appropriate threshold.

Side impact airbags, window curtain airbags

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3 Side impact airbag 4 Window curtain airbag

Side impact airbags

The side impact airbags are designed to activate only in certain side impacts exceeding a preset threshold. Only the side impact airbags on the impacted side of the vehicle deploy.

The side impact airbag for the front passenger deploys only if the front passenger seat is occupied.

Side impact airbags operate best in conjunction with a properly positioned and fastened seat belt.

Note: Heavy objects on front passenger seat can cause the

front passenger-side impact airbag to deploy in a crash.

Window curtain airbags

The head protection window curtain airbags afford greater protection against injuries to the head and upper body. They fill up in the area between the A and C pillars (see arrows) between the side windows and an occupant’s head.

The window curtain airbags are designed to activate only in certain side impacts exceeding a preset threshold. Only the head protection window curtain airbag on the impacted side of the vehicle deploys.

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Important! Airbags are designed to activate only in certain

frontal (front airbags) impacts, or side (side impact and head protection window curtain airbags) impacts which exceed preset thresholds.

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 their seat belts, otherwise it is not possible for the airbags to provide their supplemental protection.

In cases of other frontal impacts, angled impacts, roll-overs, other side impacts, rear collisions, or other accidents, the airbags 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 the airbags in order to avoid wearing your seat belt.

Warning ! Airbags are designed to reduce the potential of

injury in certain frontal (front airbags) impacts, or side (side impact and head protection window curtain airbags) impacts which may cause significant 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 airbags. This dust, however, is neither injurious to your health, nor does it indicate a fire in the vehicle. The dust might cause some temporary breathing difficulty for people with asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, you may wish to get out of the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have any breathing difficulty but cannot get out of the vehicle after the airbag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

Your vehicle was originally equipped with airbags which are designed to activate in certain impacts exceeding a preset threshold to reduce the potential and severity of injury. It is important to your safety and that of your passenger that you replace deployed airbags and repair any malfunctioning airbags to ensure the vehicle will continue to provide supplemental crash protection for occupants.

Wa rn in g! To reduce the risk of injury when the front airbags

inflate, it is very important for the driver and front passenger to always be in a properly seated position and to wear their seat belts.

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

Since the airbag inflates with considerable speed and force, a proper seating and hands on steering wheel position will help to keep you at a safe distance from the airbag. Occupants who are unbelted, out of position or too close to the airbag can be seriously injured by an airbag as it inflates with great force in the blink of an eye:

• Sit properly belted in an upright position with your back against the backrest.

• Adjust the driver’s seat as far as possible rearward, still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls. distance from the center of the driver’s breastbone to the center of the airbag cover on the steering wheel must be at least ten inches (25 cm) or more. You should be able to accomplish this by a combination of adjustments to the seat and steering wheel. If you have any problems, please see your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

• Do not lean with your head or chest close to the steering wheel or dashboard.

• Keep hands on the outside of steering wheel rim. Placing hands and arms inside the rim can increase the risk and potential severity of hand/arm injury when driver front airbag inflates.

• Adjust the front passenger seat as far as possible rearward from the dashboard when the seat is occupied.

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• Occupants, especially children, should never lean their heads in the area of the door where the side airbag inflates. This could result in serious injuries or death should the airbag be triggered. Always sit upright, properly use the seatbelts and appropriate size infant or child restraint system

• Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a MercedesBenz authorized Baby Smart child seat, which operates with the BabySmart

system installed in the vehicle to

compatible

deactivate the passenger front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury can result.

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

Warning ! Accident research shows that the safest place for

children in an automobile is in the rear seat. Should you choose to place a child 12 years old or under in the front passenger seat of your vehicle, you must properly use a BabySmart restraint which will turn off the passenger side front airbag. BabySmart

will not, however, turn

child

off the vehicle’s side impact airbag. It should be noted that with respect to both front

and rear side impact airbags there is a possibility for a side airbag related injury if occupants, especially children, are not properly seated or restrained when next to a side airbag which needs to deploy rapidly in a side impact in order to do its job.

To help avoid the possibility of injury, please follow these guidelines: (1) occupants, especially children, should never place their bodies or lean their heads in the area of the door where the side airbag inflates. This could result in serious injuries or death should the side airbag be activated; (2) always sit upright, properly use the seat belts and use an appropriately sized infant or child restraint system for all children 12 years old or under; and (3) always wear seat belts properly.

If you believe that, even with the use of these guidelines, it would be safer for your rear seat occupants to have both rear door mounted side airbags deactivated, then deactivation can be accomplished upon your written election to do so at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center at an additional cost. Please contact your local authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call our Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FORMERCedes (1-800-367-6372) for details.

Safety guidelines for the seat belt, emergency tensioning device and airbag

Wa rn in g!

• Damaged seat 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 Center.

• Do not pass belts over sharp edges.

• Do not make any modification that could change the effectiveness of the belts.

• Airbags and ETDs are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. An airbag or emergency tensioning device (ETD) that was activated must be replaced.

• No modifications of any kind may be made to any components or wiring of the SRS. This includes changing or removing any component or part of the SRS, the installation of additional trim material, badges etc. over the steering wheel hub, front passenger airbag cover, door trim panels, or door frame trims, and installation of additional electrical/electronic equipment on or near SRS components and wiring. Keep area between airbags and occupants free of objects (e.g. packages, purses, umbrellas, etc.).

• Do not hang items such as coat hangers from the coat hooks or handles over the door. These items may turn into projectiles and cause head and other injuries when curtain airbag is deployed.

• An airbag system component within the steering wheel gets hot after the airbag has inflated. Do not touch.

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• Improper work on the system, including incorrect installation and removal, can lead to possible injury through an unintended activation of the SRS.

• In addition, through improper work there is the risk of rendering the SRS inoperative or causing unintended airbag deployment. Work on the SRS must therefore only be performed by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

• For your protection and the protection of others, when scrapping the airbag unit or emergency tensioning device, our safety instructions must be followed. These instructions are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

• Given the considerable deployment speed and the textile structure of the airbags, there is the possibility of abrasions or other injuries resulting from airbag deployment.

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 Operator’s Manual.

Infant and child restraint systems

We recommend all infants and children be properly restrained at all times while the vehicle is in motion. All lap-shoulder belts except the driver’s seat belt have special seat belt retractors for secure fastening of child restraints.

To activate, pull shoulder belt out completely and let it retract. During the seat belt retraction a ratcheting sound can be heard to indicate that the special seat belt retractor is activated. The belt is now locked.

To deactivate, release seat belt buckle and let seat belt retract completely. The seat belt can again be used in the usual manner.

Note: For child seats with mounting fittings for tether

anchorages refer to page 79 (installation of infant and child restraint systems).

Warning ! Never release the seat belt buckle while vehicle is

in motion, since the special seat belt retractor will be deactivated.

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Important!

The use of infant or child restraints is required by law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces.

Infants and small children should be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system properly secured by a lap-shoulder belt that complies with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. 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.

Please read and observe warning labels affixed to inside of vehicle and to infant or child restraints.

Warning ! Children 12 years old and under must never ride in

the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmart which operates with the BabySmart

compatible child seat,

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt and top tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions.

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 must ride in back 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 for children from 41 lbs. until they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without a booster.

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

Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle; even if the children are secured in a child restraint system. Unsupervised children in a child restraint system may use vehicle equipment and may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Installation of infant and child restraint systems

P91.40-2207-26

This vehicle is provided with three tether anchorages for a top tether strap at each of the rear seating positions (3).

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Prior to installing a tether strap, note the following steps:

1 Roll up retractable luggage cover and partition net,

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2 Fold backrest forward (see page 169), guide tether

strap between head restraint and top of seat back. Head restraint must be installed and positioned such that the top tether strap can pass freely between the head restraint and top of seat back. Be careful that the tether strap is not twisted. Fold backrest back until it locks in place.

If the top tether is installed on the left back side of rear backrest, remove twin-reel roller blind, see page 172.

The tether strap has to run through the locking mechanism of twin-reel-roller blind.

3 Fold up anchorage rings (2).

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To secure a tether strap to the anchorage, securely fasten the hook (1), which is part of the tether strap, to the anchorage ring (2). For safety, please make sure that the hook has attached to the ring beyond the safety catch, as illustrated.

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Wa rn in g! Always lock backrest in its upright position when

rear seat bench is occupied by passengers, or the extended cargo area is not in use. Check for secure locking by pushing and pulling on the backrest.

Steering wheel adjustment

P46.00-2010-26

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

To lengthen or shorten the steering column, push switch forward or backward.

To raise or lower steering wheel, push switch up or down.

Note: The steering wheel position can be stored in memory

together with the seat/head restraint/exterior rear view mirror positions, see page 45.

Warning ! Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving.

Adjusting the steering wheel while driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

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Rear view mirrors

Inside rear view mirror

Manually adjust the inside rear view mirror. Use your inside rear view mirror to determine the size

and distance of objects seen in the passenger-side convex mirror.

Rear view mirror, automatic antiglare

Antiglare mode: With the electronic key in steering lock position 2, the

mirror reflection brightness responds to changes in light sensitivity.

With gear selector lever in position “R”, or with the interior lamp switched on, the mirror reflection brightness does not respond to changes in light sensitivity.

Note: The automatic antiglare function does not react, if

incoming light is not aimed directly at sensors in the inside rear view mirror.

The automatic antiglare function will not react for example, if the rear window sun shade is in raised position.

Warning ! In the case of an accident liquid electrolyte may

escape the mirror housing when the mirror glass breaks.

Electrolyte has an irritating effect. Do not allow the liquid to come into contact with eyes, skin, clothing, or respiratory system. In cases it does, immediately flush affected area with water, and seek medical help if necessary.

Exterior rear view mirrors

The switch is located on the center console. Turn electronic key in steering lock to position 1 or 2. First select the mirror to be adjusted - press button:

% Left mirror & Right mirror

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

With the electronic key in steering lock position 2, the driver’s side mirror reflection brightness responds to changes in light sensitivity.

With gear selector lever in position “R”, or with the interior lamp switched on, the driver’s side mirror brightness does not respond to changes in light sensitivity.

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.

In the case of an accident liquid electrolyte may escape the mirror housing when the mirror glass breaks.

Electrolyte has an irritating effect. Do not allow the liquid come into contact with eyes, skin, clothing, or respiratory system. In cases it does, immediately flush affected area with water, and seek medical help if necessary.

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Note: 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.

The automatic antiglare function will not react for example, if the rear window sun shade is in raised position.

Important!

Electrolyte drops coming into contact with the vehicle paint finish can only be completely removed while in their liquid state, by applying plenty of water.

Storing mirror positions in memory

The exterior rear view mirror positions are stored in memory with the seat/head restraint/steering column positions and can be recalled when necessary, see page 45.

Parking position

The passenger-side exterior mirror can be adjusted and programmed to assist the driver during parking maneuvers (e.g. to observe the curb or other objects close to the vehicle).

With electronic key in steering lock position 2, and the exterior rear view mirror switch in the passenger side position, the passenger side mirror will be turned downward when placing the gear selector lever in “R” Reverse.

The mirror position can now be adjusted as desired.

The passenger side mirror will return to its previous position:

• immediately at speeds above approximately 6 mph

(10 km/h) - independent of the engaged gear,

• after 20 seconds when shifting gear selector lever

from “R” Reverse,

• by pressing the driver’s side mirror button %.

One passenger-side mirror position can be stored in memory. To do so:

1. Turn electronic key to steering lock position 2. The vehicle must be stationary.

2. Select passenger-side mirror and adjust the mirror to view the curb.

3. Press green memory button located in switch cluster for driver seat, see page 45.

4. Within 2 seconds pull the mirror toggle switch rearward. The mirror should not move.

Repeat the memory procedure if the mirror moves.

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86Instrument cluster

1 Push buttons V and W for intensity of instrument

lamps, seepage89

2 Push button J for resetting trip odometer, see

page 91, or to acknowledge a malfunction or warning message, see page 108

3 Coolant temperature gauge, see page 90 4 Fuel gauge with reserve and fuel cap placement

warning lamp, see page 246

5 Outside temperature indicator, see page 90 6 Left turn signal indicator lamp, see combination

switch on page 122

7 Electronic stability program (ESP) warning lamp,

see page 247

8 Speedometer

9 Trip odometer, see page 91 and 96 10 Main odometer, see page 96 11 Multifunction display, see page 92,

or FSS indicator, see page 114, or engine oil level indicator, see page 117

12 Right turn signal indicator lamp, see combination

switch on page 122

13 Tachometer, see page 91 14 Gear range indicator display, see page 206 15 Clock

To set the time, see page 110

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

87Instrument cluster

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88Instrument cluster

Indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

High beam

ABS

ABS malfunction, see page 248

Brake fluid low (except Canada).

BRAKE

Parking brake engaged, see page 245 Brake fluid low (Canada only).

Parking brake engaged, see page 245 BAS malfunction, see page 247

ESP malfunction, see page 247 Fasten seat belts, see page 248

ESP. Adjust driving to road condition, seepage247

CHECK

ENGINE

If the “CHECK ENGINE” malfunction indicator lamp comes on when the engine is running, it indicates a malfunction of the fuel management system, emission control system, systems which impact emissions, or the fuel cap is not closed tight. In all cases, we recommend that you have the malfunction checked as soon as possible, seepage244

SRS malfunction, see page 246

SRS

Function indicator lamp on the center console

Front passenger airbag automatically switched off, see page 249

Activating instrument cluster display

The instrument cluster is activated by:

• Opening the door.

• Pressing button J, V or W on the instrument

cluster.

• Turning the electronic key in steering lock to

position 1 or 2.

• Switching on the exterior lamps.

Instrument cluster illumination

The instrument cluster illumination is dimmed or brightened automatically to suit daylight lighting conditions.

The instrument cluster illumination will also be adjusted when the vehicle’s exterior lamps are switched on.

1 The instrument cluster is activated for approximately 30 seconds.

Instrument cluster illumination

Activating the instrument cluster. Press V or W button to vary intensity of instrument

lamps.

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

89Instrument cluster

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90Instrument cluster

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Coolant temperature gauge (3)

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.

Wa rn in g!

• 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 vehicle and do not stand near the vehicle until it cools down.

Outside temperature indicator (5)

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-and-go or moderate, constant driving) and amount of temperature change.

Warning ! The outside temperature indicator is not designed

to serve as an Ice-Warning 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.

Trip odometer (9)

To reset to “0” miles /km: Activate the instrument cluster if it is not already

activated by pressing the J button on the instrument cluster.

Press button è or ÿ on the multifunction steering wheel repeatedly until the trip odometer appears if it is not displayed, see page 96.

Press button J (2) on the instrument cluster.

Tachometer (13)

The red marking on tachometer denotes 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.

To help protect the engine, the fuel supply is interrupted if the engine is operated within the red marking.

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

91Instrument cluster

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Multifunction steering wheel, multifunction display

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92Multifunction steering wheel, multifunction display

Depending on your vehicle’s equipment, you may use the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel to call up, control and set the following systems in the multifunction display:

1 Trip odometer and main odometer, see page 96

Vehicle speed, see page 96 Flexible service system (FSS), see page 114 Engine oil level indicator, see page 117

2 Audio systems, see page 97

Radio, see page 97 CD player (optional), see page 98 Cassette player, see page 99

3 Navigation system (optional), see page 105 4 Malfunction message memory, see page 108 5 Individual settings, see page 110 6 Trip computer, see page 106

After start After reset Fuel tank content

7 Telephone (if so equipped), see page 100

Press the è or ÿ button repeatedly until the required system is displayed.

Pressing the è button advances the display to the next system.

Pressing the ÿ button returns the display to the previous system.

You may call up additional displays within some of these categories by pressing the j or k button.

Warning ! A driver’s attention to the road must always be his /

her primary focus when driving. For your safety and the safety of others, selecting

features through the multifunction steering wheel should only be done by the driver when traffic and road conditions permit it to be done safely. Programming individual settings in the system can only be made while the vehicle is at standstill.

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93Multifunction steering wheel, multifunction display

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94Multifunction steering wheel, multifunction display

Turn the electronic key in steering look to position 1 or 2.

Press button:

3 è for next system

4 ÿ for previous system 5 j for next display in system 6 k for previous display in system 7 æ to increase the volume, see page 113 8 ç to decrease the volume, see page 113 9 í to dial a telephone number, see page 100

See page 104 for instructions on answering an incoming call.

10 ì to end a call 11 Horn pad

P46.10-2165-27

1 Multifunction display 2 Multifunction steering wheel

Press the è or ÿ button repeatedly until the required system is displayed.

Pressing the è button advances the display to the next system.

Pressing the ÿ button returns the display to the previous system.

You may call up additional displays in some systems by pressing the j or k button.

Note: The displays in the multifunction display can be set to

German, English, French, Italian or Spanish language. See the “TEXT” individual setting on page 110 for instructions on changing the language setting.

The displays for the audio systems (radio, CD player, cassette player) will appear in English, regardless of the language selected.

Instruments and controls

Operation Driving

Instrument

cluster display

95Multifunction steering wheel, multifunction display

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96Multifunction steering wheel, multifunction display

Trip and main odometer, vehicle speed, FSS and engine oil level display

1 Trip odometer and main odometer

See page 88 for instructions on resetting the trip odometer.

2 Vehicle speed 3 FSS (Flexible service system), see page 111. 4 Engine oil level indicator, see page 114.

Press è or ÿ button repeatedly until the trip odometer and main odometer display (1) appears.

Press the j or k button repeatedly until the required display (2, 3, 4, 1) appears.

Pressing the è or ÿ button displays the next or previous system.

Audio systems

Radio

P54.30-2936-27

1 Audio system is switched off. 2 The radio is switched on. 3 Wave band setting and memory location number,

where appropriate.

4 Station frequency. 5 This only appears when “MEMORY” rather than

“FREQUENCY” has been selected in the Individual settings. See page 110.

The radio must be switched on. Press the è or ÿ button repeatedly until

display (2) appears. Press button j or k repeatedly until the required

station or frequency is displayed. Use the j of k button to select a stored station or

station frequency. This depends on the selection made in the “STATION SEARCH USING” setting menu. See Individual settings, page 110.

Pressing the è or ÿ button displays the next or previous system.

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cluster display

97Multifunction steering wheel, multifunction display

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Mercedes-Benz E -Class Wagon 2003 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

7Introduction

Operator’s manual

13Introduction

Instruments and controls

Center console 1 Ashtray with lighter, see page 166

Overhead control panel 1 Interior lighting, see page 159

Operation Driving

25Central locking system

Start lock-out

General notes on the central locking system

Central locking system

Radio frequency and infrared remote control

Panic button

Doors

Central locking switch

Emergency unlocking in case of accident

Tailgate

Antitheft alarm system

Tow-away alarm

Power seats front

Front seat head restraints

Rear seat head restraints

Rear seat head restraint, removal

Multicontour seat (optional)

Seat heater

Seat ventilation (optional)

Seat belts and integrated restraint system

Seat belts

Supplemental restraint system (SRS)

Emergency tensioning device (ETD)

Airbags

Front airbags

Safety guidelines for the seat belt, emergency tensioning device and airbag

Infant and child restraint systems

Steering wheel adjustment

Rear view mirrors

Instrument cluster

Function indicator lamp on the center console

Instrument cluster illumination

Multifunction steering wheel, multifunction display

Trip and main odometer, vehicle speed, FSS and engine oil level display

Audio systems

Radio