2003 Mercedes-benz C Class Coupe Owners Manual

왘 Lower armrest until it engages in lock.

Controls in detail Useful features

Changing inclination of armrest 왘 Pull up on armrest.

Lowering armrest 왘 Pull handle 1 to lower armrest.

The storage compartment can be heat- ed or cooled. The compartment can get very warm due to its confined space. When storing heat sensitive objects in the compart- ment, close the air vent (컄 page 148) while heating the passenger compart- ment.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Parcel net in front passenger footwell A small convenience parcel net is located in the front passenger footwell. It is for small and light items, such as road maps, mail, etc.

Warning!

Do not place heavy or fragile objects, or ob- jects having sharp edges, in the parcel net.

In an accident, during hard braking or sud- den maneuvers, they could be thrown around inside the vehicle, and cause injury to vehicle occupants.

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Ashtrays

Removing ashtray insert

Center console ashtray

Warning!

Opening ashtray 왘 Briefly touch cover plate 1.

The ashtray opens automatically.

Remove front ashtray only with vehicle standing still. Set the parking brake to se- cure vehicle from movement. Move gear se- lector lever to position N. With gear selector lever in position N, turn off the engine.

왘 Secure vehicle from movement by set- ting the parking brake. Move the selec- tor lever to position N. Now you have more room to take out the insert.

왘 Slide ashtray insert in direction of

arrow 2 until it disengages.

왘 Grip ashtray at indents (arrows 3) and

remove insert from ashtray frame.

Reinstalling the ashtray insert 왘 Install insert by pushing back into

frame until it engages again.

Rear seat ashtray

Cigarette lighter

Opening ashtray 왘 Pull at top of cover 2 to open ashtray.

Removing ashtray insert 왘 Press latch 1 to disengage ashtray in-

sert and remove it.

1 Cigarette lighter 2 Cover 왘 Turn key in the starter switch to

position 1 or 2.

왘 Slide cover 2 rearward. 왘 Push in cigarette lighter 1.

Reinstalling the ashtray insert 왘 Install ashtray insert. 왘 Close the ashtray.

The cigarette lighter will pop out auto- matically when hot.

Controls in detail Useful features

Warning!

Never touch the heating element or sides of the cigarette lighter; they are extremely hot. Hold the knob only.

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key from the starter switch and lock your ve- hicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equip- ment may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.

The cigarette lighter socket can be used to accommodate electrical acces- sories up to a maximum 85 W.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Telephone*

Warning!

Never operate radio transmitters equipped with a built-in or attached antenna (i.e. with- out being connected to an external antenna) from inside the vehicle while the engine is running. Doing so could lead to a malfunc- tion of the vehicle’s electronic system, pos- sibly resulting in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Radio transmitters, such as a portable tele- phone or a citizens band unit, should only be used inside the vehicle if they are con- nected to an antenna that is installed on the outside of the vehicle. The external antenna must be approved by Mercedes-Benz. Please contact an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center for informa- tion on the installation of an approved external antenna. Refer to the radio trans- mitter operation instructions regarding use of an external antenna.

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Warning!

Please do not forget that your primary re- sponsibility is to drive the vehicle. A driver’s attention to the road must always be his/her primary focus when driving. For your safety and the safety of others, we rec- ommend that you pull over to a safe location and stop before placing or taking a tele- phone call. If you choose to use the telephone1 while driving, please use the hands-free device and only use the telephone when road, weather and traffic conditions permit. Some jurisdictions prohibit the driver from using a cellular telephone while driving a vehicle.

Only operate the COMAND* (Cockpit Man- agement and Data System)1 if road, weather and traffic conditions permit.

1 Observe all legal requirements.

Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of approx. 44 feet (ap- proximately 13.5 m) every second.

You can take and place telephone calls us- ing the í and ì buttons on the steering wheel. To carry out other tele- phone functions, use the control system (컄 page 126). See separate operating manual for instruc- tions on how to use the telephone.

Warning!

Some jurisdictions prohibit the driver from using a cellular telephone while driving a ve- hicle. Whether or not prohibited by law, for safety reasons, the driver should not use the cellular telephone while the vehicle is in mo- tion.

Stop the vehicle in a safe location before an- swering or placing a call.

Tele Aid*

The initial activation of the Tele Aid sys- tem may only be performed by com- pleting the subscriber agreement and placing an acquaintance call using the SOS button. Failure to complete either of these steps will result in a system that is not activated. If the system is not activated, the indicator lamp in the SOS button stays on after turning key in starter switch to position 2 and the message TELE AID – NOT ACTIVATED will be shown in the multifunction dis- play for approx. 10 seconds. If you have any questions regarding ac- tivation, please call the Response Cen- ter at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada).

The Tele Aid system (Telematic Alarm Identification on De- mand) The Tele Aid system consists of three types of response: 앫 automatic and manual emergency 앫 roadside assistance and 앫 information The Tele Aid system is operational provid- ing that the vehicle’s battery is charged, properly connected, not damaged and cel- lular and GPS coverage is available. The speaker volume of a Tele Aid call can be adjusted when using the volume control on the multifunction steering wheel. To raise, press button æ and to lower, press button ç. 왘 To activate, press the SOS button, the

Roadside Assistance button • or the Information button ¡, depend- ing on the type of response required.

Controls in detail Useful features

The SOS button is located above the in- side rear view mirror. The Roadside Assistance button • and the Information button ¡ are located below the center armrest cov- er.

Shortly after the completion of your Ac- quaintance Call, you will receive a user ID and password via first call mail. By visiting www.mbusa.com and selecting “Tele Aid” (USA only), you will have access to account information, remote door unlock and more.

The Tele Aid system utilizes the cellular network for communication and the GPS (Global Positioning System) satel- lites for vehicle location. If either of these signals are unavailable, the Tele Aid system may not function and if this occurs, assistance must be sum- moned by other means.

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Controls in detail Useful features

System self-check Initially, after turning the key in starter switch to position 2, malfunctions are de- tected and indicated (the indicator lamps in the SOS button, the Roadside Assis- tance button • and the Information button ¡ stay on longer than 10 seconds or do not come on). The mes- sage TELE AID – VISIT WORKSHOP! ap- pears for approx. 10 seconds in the multifunction display.

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Warning!

If the indicator lamps in the SOS button, in the Roadside Assistance button and/or in the Information button do not come on dur- ing the system self-check or if any of these indicators remain illuminated constantly in red and/or the message TELE AID defec- tive – VISIT WORKSHOP! is displayed in the multifunction display after the system self-check, a malfunction in the system has been detected.

If a malfunction is indicated as outlined above, the system may not operate as ex- pected. Have the system checked at the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Emergency calls An emergency call is initiated automatical- ly: 앫 following an accident in which the

emergency tensioning devices (ETDs) or airbags deploy

앫 if the anti-theft alarm or the tow-away

alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds. See anti-theft alarm sys- tem (컄 page 78)and tow-away alarm (컄 page 79)

An emergency call can also be initiated manually by opening the cover next to the inside rear view mirror labeled “SOS”, then briefly pressing the button located under the cover. See below for instructions on initiating an emergency call manually. Once the emergency call is in progress, the indicator lamp in the “SOS” button will be- gin to flash. The message EMERGENCY CALL – CONNECTING CALL appears in the multi- function display. When the connection is established, the message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multi-

function display. All information relevant to the emergency, such as the location of the vehicle (determined by the GPS satellite lo- cation system), vehicle model, identifica- tion number and color are generated. A voice connection between the Response Center and the occupants of the vehicle will be established automatically soon af- ter the emergency call has been initiated. When a voice connection is established the audio system mutes and the message TELE AID – EMERGENCY CALL ACTIVE ap- pears in the multifunction display. The Re- sponse Center will attempt to determine more precisely the nature of the accident provided they can speak to an occupant of the vehicle.

The Tele Aid system is available if: 앫 it has been activated and is operation- al. Activation requires a subscription for monitoring services, connection and cellular air time

앫 the relevant cellular phone network

and GPS signals are available and pass the information on to the response cen- ter

Location of the vehicle on a map is only possible if the vehicle is able to receive signals from the GPS satellite network and pass the information on to the re- sponse center.

Controls in detail Useful features

Warning!

If the indicator lamp in the SOS button is il- luminated continuously and there was no voice connection to the Response Center established, then the Tele Aid system could not initiate an emergency call (e.g. the rele- vant cellular phone network is not available). The message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL FAILED appears in the multifunction display for approx. 10 seconds.

Should this occur, assistance must be sum- moned by other means.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Initiating an emergency call manually

Warning!

If you feel at any way in jeopardy when in the vehicle (e.g. smoke or fire in the vehicle, ve- hicle in a dangerous road location), please do not wait for voice contact after you have pressed the emergency button. Carefully leave the vehicle and move to a safe loca- tion. The Response Center will automatically contact local emergency officials with the vehicle’s approximate location if they re- ceive an automatic SOS signal and cannot make voice contact with the vehicle occu- pants.

1 Cover 2 SOS button 왘 Briefly press on cover 1.

The cover will open.

왘 Press SOS button 2 briefly.

The indicator lamp in the SOS button 2 will flash until the emergency call is concluded.

왘 Wait for a voice connection to the Re-

sponse Center.

왘 Close cover 1 after the emergency call

is concluded.

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Roadside Assistance button • Located below the center armrest cover is the Roadside Assistance button •. 왘 Press and hold the button (for longer

than 2 seconds). A call to a Mercedes-Benz Roadside As- sistance dispatcher will be initiated. The button will flash while the call is in progress. The message ROADSIDE AS- SISTANCE – CONNECTING CALL will ap- pear in the multifunction display.

When the connection is established, the message ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multifunc- tion display. The Tele Aid system will trans- mit data generating the vehicle identification number, model, color and lo- cation (subject to availability of cellular and GPS signals).

A voice connection between the Roadside Assistance dispatcher and the occupants of the vehicle will be established. When a voice connection is established the audio system mutes and the message TELE AID – ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE CALL ACTIVE ap- pears in the multifunction display. 왘 Describe the nature of the need for as-

sistance.

The Mercedes-Benz Roadside assistance dispatcher will either dispatch a qualified Mercedes-Benz technician or arrange to tow your vehicle to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center. For services such as labor and/or towing, charges may ap- ply. Refer to the Roadside Assistance man- ual for more information.

These programs are only available in the USA: 앫 Sign and Drive services: Services such as jump start, a few gallons of fuel or the replacement of a flat tire with the vehicle spare tire are obtainable.

앫 Remote Vehicle Diagnostics: This func- tion permits the Mercedes-Benz Road- side Assistance dispatcher to download malfunction codes and actu- al vehicle data.

The indicator lamp in the Roadside As- sistance button • remains illumi- nated in red for approx. 10 seconds during the system self-check after turn- ing the key in the starter switch to position 2 (together with the “SOS” button and the Information button ¡).

Controls in detail Useful features

See system self-check (컄 page 202) when the indicator lamp does not light up in red or stays on longer than ap- proximately 10 seconds. If the indicator lamp in the Roadside Assistance button • is illuminated continuously and there was no voice connection to the Response Center es- tablished, then the Tele Aid system could not initiate a Roadside Assis- tance call (e.g. the relevant cellular phone network is not available). The message ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE – CALL FAILED appears in the multifunc- tion display. Roadside Assistance calls can be ter- minated using the ì button on the multifunction steering wheel.

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mation regarding the operation of your ve- hicle, the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or Mercedes-Benz USA products and ser- vices is available to you. For more details concerning the Tele Aid system, please visit www.mbusa.com and use your ID and password (sent to you sep- arately) to learn more (USA only).

The indicator lamp in the Information button ¡ remains illuminated in red for approx. 10 seconds during the sys- tem self-check after turning key in the starter switch to position 2 (together with the “SOS” button and the Road- side Assistance button •).

See System self-check (컄 page 202) when the indicator lamp does not light up in red or stays on longer than ap- proximately 10 seconds. If the indicator lamp in the Information button ¡ is illuminated continuous- ly and there was no voice connection to the Response Center established, then the Tele Aid system could not initiate an Information call (e.g. the relevant cellular phone network is not avail- able). The message INFO – CALL FAILED appears in the multifunc- tion display. Information calls can be terminated us- ing the ì button on the multifunc- tion steering wheel.

Controls in detail Useful features

Information button ¡ Located below the center armrest cover is the Information button ¡. 왘 Press and hold the button (for longer

than 2 seconds). A call to the Customer Assistance Cen- ter will be initiated. The button will flash while the call is in progress. The message INFO – CONNECTING CALL will appear in the multifunction display.

When the connection is established, the message INFO – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multifunction display. The Tele Aid system will transmit data generating the vehicle identification number, model, color and location (subject to availability of cel- lular and GPS signals). A voice connection between the Customer Assistance Center representative and the occupants of the vehicle will be estab- lished. When a voice connection is estab- lished the audio system mutes and the message TELE AID – INFO CALL ACTIVE appears in the multifunction display. Infor-

206

! If the indicator lamps do not start flash- ing after pressing one of the buttons or remain illuminated (in red) at any time, the Tele Aid system has detected a fault or the service is not currently ac- tive, and may not initiate a call. Visit your Mercedes-Benz Center and have the system checked or contact the Re- sponse Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Cana- da) as soon as possible.

Upgrade signals The Tele Aid system processes calls using the following priority. 앫 Automatic emergency – First priority 앫 Manual emergency – Second priority 앫 Roadside assistance – Third priority 앫 Information – Fourth priority Should a higher priority call be initiated while you are connected, an upgrade (al- ternating) tone will be heard, and the ap- propriate indicator lamp will flash. If certain information such as vehicle identi- fication number or customer information is not available, the operator may need to re- transmit. During this time you will hear a beep and voice contact will be interrupted. Voice contact will resume once the retransmis- sion is completed. Once a call is conclud- ed, a beep will be heard and the appropriate indicator lamp will stop flash- ing. The COMAND* system operation will resume.

Controls in detail Useful features

If the indicator lamp continues to flash or the system does not reset, contact the Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada), or Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) in the USA or Cus- tomer Service at 1-800-387-0100 in Canada.

The indicator lamp in the respective button flashes until the call is conclud- ed. Calls can only be terminated by a Response Center or Customer Assis- tance Center representative except Roadside Assistance and Information calls, which can also be terminated by pressing button ì on the multifunc- tion steering wheel.

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Controls in detail Useful features

When a Tele Aid call has been initiated, the audio system or the COMAND* sys- tem audio is muted and the selected mode (radio, tape or CD) pauses. The optional cellular phone (if installed) switches off. If you must use this phone, the vehicle must be parked. Dis- connect the coiled cord and place the call. The COMAND* navigation system (if engaged) will continue to run. The display in the instrument cluster is available for use and spoken com- mands are only available by pressing the RPT button on the COMAND* unit. A pop-up window will appear in the CO- MAND* display to indicate that a Tele Aid call is in progress.

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Remote door unlock In case you have locked your vehicle unin- tentionally (e.g. key inside vehicle), and the reserve key is not handy: 왘 Contact the Mercedes-Benz Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada). You will be asked to provide your pass- word which you provided when you completed the subscriber agreement. 왘 Then return to your vehicle and pull the trunk lid recessed handle for minimum of 20 seconds until the “SOS” button is flashing. The message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multi- function display.

As an alternative, you may unlock the vehi- cle via Internet using the ID and password sent to you shortly after the completion of your acquaintance call.

The Response Center will then unlock your vehicle with the remote door unlocking feature.

The remote door unlock feature is avail- able if the relevant cellular phone net- work is available. The “SOS” button will flash and the message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL CONNECTED will appear in the mul- tifunction display to indicate receipt of the door unlock command. Once the vehicle is unlocked, a Re- sponse Center specialist will attempt to establish voice contact with the ve- hicle occupants. If the trunk lid recessed handle was pulled for more than 20 seconds be- fore door unlock authorization was re- ceived by the Response Center, you must wait 15 minutes before pulling the trunk lid recessed handle again.

Stolen vehicle tracking services In the event your vehicle was stolen: 왘 Report the incident to the police.

The police will issue a numbered inci- dent report.

왘 Pass this number on to the

Mercedes-Benz Response Center along with your password issued to you when you subscribed to the service. The Response Center will then attempt to covertly contact the vehicle’s Tele Aid system. Once the vehicle is lo- cated, the Response Center will con- tact the local law enforcement and you. The vehicle’s location will only be pro- vided to law enforcement.

Garage door opener

The built-in remote control is capable of operating up to three separately controlled objects.

2, 3, 4

Indicator lamp Signal transmitter key Hand-held remote control trans- mitter

Controls in detail Useful features

Warning!

When programming a garage door opener, the door moves up or down.

When programming or operating the remote control make sure there is no possibility of anyone being injured by the moving door.

Certain types of garage door openers are incompatible with the integrated opener. If you should experience diffi- culties with programming the transmit- ter, contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, or call Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA only) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.

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Controls in detail Useful features

For operation in the USA only: This de- vice complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 앫 This device may not cause harmful

interference, and

앫 this device must accept any inter- ference received, including interfer- ence that may cause undesired operation.

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

Programming or reprogramming the in- tegrated remote control 왘 Turn key in the starter switch to

position 1 or 2.

왘 Hold the end of the hand-held transmit-

ter of the device you wish to train approximately 2 to 5 inches (5 cm to 12 cm) away from the surface of the in- tegrated remote control located on the inside rear view mirror, keeping the in- dicator lamp in view.

왘 Using both hands, simultaneously push the hand-held transmitter button and the desired integrated remote control button. Do not release the buttons until completing next step.

왘 The indicator lamp on the integrated remote control will flash, first slowly and then rapidly. The rapid flashing lamp indicates successful program- ming of the new frequency signal.

왘 When the indicator lamp flashes rapid-

ly, release both buttons.

왘 To program the remaining two buttons,

repeat the above steps.

If, after several attempts, you do not successfully program the integrated re- mote control device to learn the signal of the hand-held transmitter, the ga- rage door opener could be equipped with the “rolling code feature”.

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Controls in detail Useful features

You have 30 seconds time to initiate the following step. 왘 Firmly press and release the pro-

grammed integrated remote control transmit button.

왘 Press and release same button a sec- ond time to complete the training pro- cess.

Some garage door openers may require you to do this procedure a third time to complete the training. 왘 Confirm the garage door operation by pressing the programmed button on the integrated remote control transmit- ter.

Canadian programming During programming, your hand-held transmitter may automatically stop trans- mitting. 왘 Continue to press and hold the inte-

grated remote control transmitter but- ton (refer to steps two through four in the “Programming” portion) while you press and re-press (“cycle”) your hand-held transmitter every two sec- onds until the frequency signal has been learned. Upon successful training, the indicator lamp will flash slowly and then rapidly after several seconds.

Rolling code programming To train a garage door opener (or other roll- ing code devices) with the rolling code fea- ture, follow these instructions after completing the “Programming” portion of this text. (A second person may make the following training procedures quicker and easier.) 왘 Locate training button on the garage

door opener motor head unit. Exact location and color of the button may vary by garage door opener brand. If there is difficulty locating the trans- mitting button, refer to garage door opener operator’s manual.

왘 Press “training” button on the garage

door opener motor head unit. The “training light” is activated.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Operating the remote control 왘 Turn key in starter switch to position 1

Erasing the remote control memory 왘 Turn key in starter switch to position 1

or 2.

or 2.

왘 Select and press the appropriate but- ton to activate the remote controlled device. The integrated remote control trans- mitter continues to send the signal as long as the button is pressed – up to 20 seconds.

왘 Simultaneously hold down the left and

right side buttons for approximately 20 seconds, or until the indicator lamp blinks rapidly. The codes of all three channels are erased.

If you sell your vehicle, erase the codes of all three channels.

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Pre-production photograph 왘

Operation The first 1000 miles (1500km)

Driving instructions

At the gas station

Engine compartment

Tires and wheels

Winter driving

Maintenance

Vehicle care

213

Operation The first 1000 miles (1500km)

In the “Operation” section you will find de- tailed information on operating, maintain- ing and caring for your vehicle.

The first 1000 miles (1500km) The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satis- fied you will be with its performance later on. 앫 Drive your vehicle during the first

1000 miles (1500 km) at varying but moderate vehicle and engine speeds. 앫 During this period, avoid heavy loads (full throttle driving) and excessive en- gine speeds (no more than 2/3 of max- imum rpm in each gear).

앫 Changes gears in a timely manner.

앫 Avoid accelerating by kick-down. 앫 Do not attempt to slow the vehicle

down by shifting to a lower gear using the selector lever.

앫 Select positions 3, 2 or 1 only when driving at moderate speeds (for hill driving).

After 1000 miles (1500 km) you may grad- ually increase vehicle and engine speeds to the permissible maximum. All of the above instuctions also apply when driving the first 1000 miles (1500 km) after the engine or the rear dif- ferential has been replaced.

Always obey applicable speed limits.

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Operation Driving instructions

Drinking and driving

Pedals

Warning!

Warning!

Keep driver’s foot area clear at all times. Ob- jects stored in this area may impair pedal movement.

Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and driving are very dangerous combina- tions. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect your reflexes, perceptions and judgement.

The possibility of a serious or even fatal ac- cident is sharply increased when you drink or take drugs and drive.

Please don’t drink or take drugs and drive or allow anyone to drive after drinking or taking drugs.

Driving instructions Drive sensibly – save fuel

Fuel consumption, to a great extent, de- pends on driving habits and operating con- ditions. To save fuel you should: 앫 Keep tires at the recommended infla-

tion pressures

앫 Remove unnecessary loads 앫 Remove roof rack when not in use 앫 Allow engine to warm up under low

load use

앫 Avoid frequent acceleration and decel-

eration

앫 Have all maintenance work performed

at regular intervals by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center

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

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Operation Driving instructions

Power assistance

Warning!

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

Brakes

Warning!

After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through wa- ter deep enough to wet brake components, the first braking action may be somewhat reduced and increased pedal pressure may be necessary to obtain expected braking ef- fect. Maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.

216

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

It can also result in the brakes overheating, thereby significantly reducing their effec- tiveness. It may not be possible to stop the vehicle in sufficient time to avoid an acci- dent.

To help prevent brake disk corrosion after driving on wet road surfaces (particularly salted roads), it is advisable to brake the vehicle with considerable force prior to parking. The heat generated serves to dry the brakes. If your brake system is normally only sub- jected to moderate loads, you should occa- sionally test the effectiveness of the brakes by applying above-normal braking pressure at higher speeds. This will also enhance the grip of the brake pads.

Be very careful not to endanger other road users when you apply the brakes. Refer to the description of the Brake Assist System (BAS) (컄 page 74).

If the parking brake is released and the brake warning lamp in the instrument clus- ter stays on, the brake fluid level in the res- ervoir is too low. Brake pad wear or a leak in the system may be the reason for low brake fluid in the res- ervoir. Have the brake system inspected at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center immedi- ately. All checks and service work on the brake system should be carried out by an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center. Install only brake pads and brake fluid rec- ommended by Mercedes-Benz.

Operation Driving instructions

Warning!

Driving off

Parking

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

When driving down long and steep grades, relieve the load on the brakes by shifting into a lower gear to use the engine’s braking power. This helps pre- vent overheating of the brakes and re- duces brake pad wear

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

Apply the brakes to test them briefly after driving off. Perform this procedure only when the road is clear of other traffic. Warm up the engine smoothly. Do not place full load on the engine until the oper- ating temperature has been reached. When starting off on a slippery surface, do not allow one wheel to spin for an extend- ed period with the ESP switched off. Doing so may cause serious damage to the drive train which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Simultaneously depressing the acceler- ator pedal and applying the brake re- duces engine performance and causes premature brake and drivetrain wear.

Set the parking brake whenever park- ing or leaving the vehicle. In addition, move selector lever to position P (man- ual transmission: first or reverse gear). In addition, when parking on hills, turn front wheel towards the curb

Warning!

Do not park this vehicle in areas where com- bustible materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

217

Operation Driving instructions

To reduce the risk of personal injury as a re- sult of vehicle movement, before turning off the engine and leaving the vehicle always: 앫 Keep right foot on brake pedal. 앫 Firmly depress parking brake pedal. 앫 Move the selector lever to position P (manual transmission: first or reverse gear).

앫 Slowly release brake pedal. 앫 When parked on an incline, turn front

wheel against curb.

앫 Turn the key to starter switch

position 0.

앫 Take the key and lock vehicle when leav-

ing.

Tires

Warning!

If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that possi- ble damage to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on the hazard warning flash- ers, carefully slow down, and drive with cau- tion to an area which is a safe distance from the road.

Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires appear unsafe, have it towed to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or tire dealer for re- pairs.

Tread wear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These indicators are located in six places on the tread circumference and be- come visible at a tread depth of approxi- mately 1/16 in (1.5 mm), at which point the tire is considered worn and should be replaced. The tread wear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread.

Warning!

Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. As tread depth approaches 1/16 in (1.5 mm), the adhesion properties on a wet road are sharply reduced.

Depending upon the weather and/or road surface (conditions), the tire traction varies widely.

218

Operation Driving instructions

Specified tire pressures must be main- tained. This applies particularly if the tires are subjected to high loads (e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, high ambient temper- atures).

Warning!

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

Hydroplaning

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

Tire traction

Tire speed rating

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

Warning!

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

Mercedes-Benz recommends M+S rated radial-ply tires for the winter season for all four wheels to insure normal balanced handling characteristics. On packed snow, they can reduce your stopping distance as compared to summer tires. Stopping dis- tance, however, is still considerably great- er than when the road is not covered with snow or ice. Exercise appropriate caution.

Warning!

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

Exceeding the maximum speed for which tires are rated can lead to sudden tire fail- ure, causing loss of vehicle control and pos- sibly resulting in an accident and/or personal injury and possible death, for you and for others.

Regardless of the tire speed rating, local speed limits should be obeyed. Use pru- dent driving speeds appropriate to prevail- ing conditions. An electronic speed limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding a speed of 130 mph (210 km/h)

219

Operation Driving instructions

Information on tire speed rating for winter tires (컄 page 236).

Vehicles without Evolution Package Your vehicle is factory equipped with “H”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of 130 mph (210 km/h) or optional “V”-rated tires which have a speed rating of 150 mph (240 km/h) or optional “W”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of 168 mph (270 km/h).

Vehicles with Evolution Package Your vehicle is factory equipped with “W”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of 168 mph (270 km/h).

220

Road salts and chemicals can adversely af- fect braking efficiency. Increased pedal force may become necessary to produce the normal braking effect. We therefore recommend depressing the brake pedal periodically when traveling at length on salt-strewn roads. This can bring road salt impaired braking efficiency back to normal. Be very careful that you carry out these braking maneu- vers without endangering any other road users. If the vehicle is parked after being driven on salt treated roads, the braking efficien- cy should be tested as soon as possible af- ter driving is resumed while observing the safety rules in the previous paragraph.

Winter driving instructions

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

Information on driving with snow chains (컄 page 237).

Warning!

On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehi- cle control. Your vehicle’s ABS will not pre- vent this type of loss of control.

Warning!

Standing water

Do not drive through flooded areas or water of unknown depth. If you must drive through standing wa- ter, drive slowly to prevent water from entering the passenger compartment or the engine compartment. Water in these areas could cause damage to electrical components or wiring of the engine or transmission, or could result in water being ingested by the engine through the air intake causing severe internal engine damage. Any such dam- age is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

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

To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, open a window slightly on the side of the ve- hicle not facing the wind

Warning!

The outside temperature indicator is not de- signed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. In- dicated temperatures just above the freez- ing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice.

For more information on winter driving (컄 page 236).

Operation Driving instructions

Passenger compartment

Warning!

Always fasten items being carried as secure- ly as possible.

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

The trunk is the preferred place to carry ob- jects.

Driving abroad

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

221

Operation Driving instructions

Control and operation of radio trans- mitter

COMAND*, radio and telephone*

Warning!

Please do not forget that your primary re- sponsibility is to drive the vehicle safely. Only operate the COMAND (Cockpit Man- agement and Data System), radio or tele- phone1 if road, weather and traffic conditions permit.

Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of approximately 44 feet (approximately 13.5 m) every sec- ond.

1 Observe all legal requirements

222

Telephones and two-way radios

Catalytic converter

Warning!

Never operate radio transmitters equipped with a built-in or attached antenna (i.e. with- out being connected to an external antenna) from inside the vehicle while the engine is running. Doing so could lead to a malfunc- tion of the vehicle’s electronic system, pos- sibly resulting in an accident and/or personal injury.

Radio transmitters, such as a portable tele- phone or a citizens band unit should only be used inside the vehicle if they are con- nected to an antenna that is installed on the outside of the vehicle. Refer to the radio transmitter operation in- structions regarding use of an external an- tenna.

Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with monolithic type catalytic converters, an important element in conjunction with the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial con- trol of the pollutants in the exhaust emis- sions. Keep your vehicle in proper operating condition by following our rec- ommended maintenance instructions as outlined in your Service Booklet.

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

Warning!

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

Emission control

Certain systems of the engine serve to keep the toxic components of the exhaust gases within permissible limits required by law. These systems, of course, will function properly only when maintained strictly ac- cording to factory specifications. Any ad- justments on the engine should, therefore, be carried out only by qualified Mercedes-Benz Center authorized techni- cians. Engine adjustments should not be altered in any way. Moreover, the specified service jobs must be carried out regularly

according to Mercedes-Benz servicing re- quirements. For details refer to the Service Booklet.

Warning!

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

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

Coolant temperature

During severe operating conditions and stop-and-go city traffic, the coolant tem- perature may rise close to approx. 248°F (120°C).

Operation Driving instructions

The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature over 248°F (120°C). Doing so may cause serious en- gine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Warning!

앫 Driving when your engine is badly over-

heated can cause some fluids, which may have leaked into the engine com- partment, to catch fire. You could be se- riously burned.

앫 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.

223

Operation At the gas station At the gas station

Warning!

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

The fuel filler flap is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle towards the rear. Locking/unlocking the vehicle with the remote control automatically locks/unlocks the fuel filler flap.

왘 Remove the key from the starter

switch.

왘 Open the fuel filler flap by pushing at

the point indicated by the arrow. The fuel filler flap springs open.

왘 Turn the fuel cap to the left and hold on to it until possible pressure is released.

224

왘 Take off the cap and set it in the recess

on the fuel filler flap. To prevent fuel vapors from escaping into open air, fully insert filler nozzle unit.

왘 Only fill your tank until the filler nozzle unit cuts out – do not top up or overfill.

Warning!

Overfilling of the fuel tank may create pres- sure in the system which could cause a gas discharge. This could cause the gas to spray back out when removing the fuel pump noz- zle, which could cause personal injury.

왘 Replace the fuel cap by turning it to the

right. You will hear when the fuel cap is tight- ened.

왘 Close the fuel filler flap.

i Use only premium unleaded gasoline with a minimum Posted Octane Rating of 91 (average of 96 RON/86 MON). Information on gasoline quality can normally be found on the fuel pump. More information on gasoline can be found in the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet.

Leaving the engine running and the fuel cap open can cause the ? lamp to illuminate. More information can be found in the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 250).

Check regularly and before a long trip

1 Coolant level

More information on the coolant level can be found in the “Operation” section (컄 page 229).

2 Brake fluid (fuse box cover removed)

More information on brake fluid can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 317). Removing fuse box cover see page (컄 page 303).

3 Windshield washer and headlamp

cleaning system For more information on refilling the reservoir, see the “Operation” section (컄 page 232).

Operation At the gas station

Engine oil level More information on engine oil can be found in the “Operation” section (컄 page 227). Opening hood see (컄 page 226).

Coolant For normal replenishing, use water (pota- ble water quality). More information on coolant can be found in the“Operation” section (컄 page 229).

Vehicle lighting Check function and cleanliness. For more information on replacing light bulbs, see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 280). Exterior lamp switch (컄 page 96).

Tire inflation pressure More information on tire inflation pressure can be found in the “Operation” section (컄 page 234).

225

Operation Engine compartment Engine compartment Hood

Warning!

Do not pull the release lever while the vehi- cle is in motion. Otherwise the hood could be forced open by passing air flow.

Opening

1 Hood release 왘 Pull lever 1 downwards.

The hood is unlocked. At the same time a handle will extend out of the radiator grill.

226

To avoid damage to the windshield wip- ers or hood, never open the hood if the wiper arms are folded forward away from the windshield.

왘 Open the hood (do not pull up on the

handle) and then release it. The hood will be automatically held open at shoulder height by gas-filled struts.

Warning!

To help prevent personal injury, stay clear of moving parts when the hood is open and the engine is running. Make sure the hood is properly closed before driving. When closing the hood, use extreme caution not to catch hands or fingers.

The radiator fan may continue to run for ap- proximately 30 seconds or even restart af- ter the engine has been turned off. Stay clear of fan blades.

2 Handle for opening the hood 왘 Pull handle 2 to its stop out of radiator

grill

Warning!

Closing

If you see flames or smoke coming from the engine compartment, or if the coolant tem- perature gauge indicates that the engine is overheated, do not open the hood. Move away from vehicle and do not open the hood until the engine has cooled. If necessary, call the fire department.

Warning!

The engine is equipped with a transistorized ignition system. Because of the high voltage it is dangerous to touch any components (ig- nition coils, spark plug sockets, diagnostic socket) of the ignition system 앫 with the engine running 앫 while starting the engine 앫 if ignition is “on” and the engine is

turned manually

Warning!

Be careful that you do not close the hood on anyone.

왘 Let the hood drop from a height of ap-

proximately 1 ft (30 cm). The hood will lock audibly.

왘 Check to make sure that the hood is

fully closed. If you can raise the hood at a point above the headlamps, then it is not properly closed. Open it again and let it drop with somewhat greater force.

Operation Engine compartment

Engine oil

The amount of oil your engine needs will depend on a number of factors, including driving style. Higher oil consumption can occur when 앫 the vehicle is new 앫 the vehicle is driven frequently at high-

er engine speeds

Engine oil consumption checks should only be made after the vehicle break-in period.

Checking engine oil level When checking the oil level the vehicle must 앫 be parked on level ground 앫 be at normal operating temperature 앫 have been stationary for at least five

minutes with the engine turned off

227

Operation Engine compartment

You can check the engine oil level on the multifunction display. 왘 Turn the key in the starter switch to

After about three seconds this mes- sage is displayed:

ENGINE OIL LEVEL-MEASURING NOW

Adding engine oil

position 2.

The standard display showing the trip odometer and the main odometer (컄 page 105) should appear in the multi- function display. 왘 Press button k or j, on the

steering wheel until the following mes- sage is seen in the multifunction dis- play:

ENGINE OIL LEVEL - MEASUREMENT IN PROCESS! CORRECT MEASUREMENT ONLY IF VEH. LEVEL

One of the following messages will sub- sequently appear in the indicator: 앫 ENGINE OIL LEVEL - O.K. 앫 ENGINE OIL LEVEL - ADD 1 QUART

(1.o LITER)!

앫 ENGINE OIL LEVEL - ADD 1.5

QUARTS (1.5 LITERS)!

앫 ENGINE OIL LEVEL - ADD 2.0

QUARTS (2.0 LITERS)!

228

1 Filler neck 왘 Unscrew the cap from filler neck 1. Be

careful not to overfill with oil.

Be careful not to spill any oil when adding. Avoid environmental damage caused by oil entering the ground or water.

Excessive oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

컄컄

왘 Screw the cap back on the filler neck.

Other display messages If there is excessive engine oil with the en- gine at normal operating temperature, the following message will appear: ENGINE OIL LEVEL - REDUCE OIL LEVEL 왘 Have excess oil siphoned. If the key is not turned to position 2 in the starter switch: FOR ENGINE OIL LEVEL IGNITION ON PLEASE! 왘 Switch on the ignition. If you see the message: OBSERVE WAITING PERIOD 왘 Wait five minutes before repeating

check procedure.

If you see the message: ENGINE OIL LEVEL - NOT WHEN ENGINE ON! 왘 Turn off the engine. If engine is at nor- mal operating temperature, wait five minutes before checking oil. If the en-

Operation Engine compartment

gine is not yet at normal operating tem- perature, you must wait 30 minutes before checking oil.

If a proper oil level check cannot be per- formed, the following message will appear: ENGINE OIL LEVEL - MASURING NOT POS- SIBLE 왘 Repeat the engine oil level check after

a short while.

See “Practical hints” (컄 page 262) if an en- gine oil level indicator appears on the dis- play when the engine is running. More information on engine oil can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 317).

Transmission fluid level

The transmission fluid level does not need to be checked. If you notice transmission fluid loss or gear shifting malfunctions, have an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center check the transmission.

Coolant level

The engine coolant is a mixture of water and anticorrosion/antifreeze. To check the coolant level, the vehicle must be parked on level ground and the engine must be cool. The coolant expansion tank is located on the passenger side of the engine compart- ment.

229

The coolant level is correct if the level 앫 for cold coolant: reaches the black

top part of the reservoir

앫 for warm coolant: is approx. 0.6 in

(1.5 cm) higher

왘 Add coolant as required. 왘 Replace and tighten cap. More information on coolant can be found in the “Technical data” (컄 page 321)

1 Coolant expansion tank 왘 Using a rag, turn the cap slowly approx-

imately one half turn to the left to re- lease any excess pressure.

왘 Continue turning the cap to the left and

remove it.

Operation Engine compartment

Warning!

In order to avoid any possibly serious burns: 앫 Use extreme caution when opening the hood if there are any signs of steam or coolant leaking from the cooling system, or if the coolant temperature gauge indi- cates that the coolant is overheated.

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

앫 Using a rag, slowly open the cap approx-

imately ½ turn to relieve excess pres- sure. If opened immediately, scalding hot fluid and steam will be blown out un- der pressure.

앫 Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine

parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene gly- col which may burn if it comes into con- tact with hot engine parts.

230

Battery

Your vehicle’s battery is located in the en- gine compartment on the right hand side. The battery should always be sufficiently charged in order to achieve its rated ser- vice life. If you use your vehicle mostly for short dis- tance trips, you will need to have the bat- tery charge checked more frequently. When replacing the battery, always use batteries approved by Mercedes-Benz. If you do not intend to operate your vehicle for an extended period of time, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center about steps you need to observe.

and precautions when handling automotive batteries.

G Observe all safety instructions A Risk of explosion. D Keep flames or sparks away B Battery acid is caustic. Do not

from battery. Do not smoke.

allow it to come into contact with skin, eyes or clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with clear water and seek medical help if necessary.

Operation Engine compartment

E Wear eye protection. C Keep children away. F Follow the instructions in this

Operator's Manual.

Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Recycling of batteries is the preferred method of disposal. Many states require sellers of batteries to accept old batteries for recycling.

231

Always use washer solvent/antifreeze where temperatures may fall below freezing. Failure to do so could result in damage to the washer system/reser- voir.

Warning!

Washer solvent/antifreeze is highly flam- mable. Do not spill washer solvent/antifreeze on hot engine parts, be- cause it may ignite. You could be seriously burned.

More information can be found in the “Technical data” (컄 page 324).

1 Washer fluid reservoir

Only use washer fluid which is suitable for plastic lenses. Improper washer flu- id can damage the plastic lenses of the headlamps.

Operation Engine compartment

Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system

Fluid for the windshield washer system and the headlamp cleaning system is supplied from the windshield washer reservoir. It has a capacity of 앫 Vehicles without headlamp cleaning

system: approx. 3.2 US qt. (3 l).

앫 Vehicles with headlamp cleaning sys-

tem: approx. 6.4 US qt. (6 l).

During all seasons, add MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” to water. Premix the windshield washer fluid in a suitable container. 왘 Refill the reservoir with MB Windshield

Washer Concentrate and water (or commercially available premixed wind- shield washer solvent/antifreeze, de- pending on ambient temperatures).

232

Tires and wheels See your authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter for information on tested and recom- mended rims and tires for summer and winter operation. They can also offer ad- vice concerning tire service and purchase

Warning!

Replace rims or tires with the same designa- tion, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further informa- tion. If incorrectly sized rims and tires are mounted: 앫 The wheel brakes or suspension compo-

nents can be damaged

앫 The correct operating clearance of the wheels and the tires are no longer guar- anteed

Warning!

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

When replacing rims, use only genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the particular rim type. Failure to do so can re- sult in the bolts loosening and possibly an accident.

Retread tires are not tested or recom- mended by Mercedes-Benz, since previous damage cannot always be recognized on retreads. Mercedes-Benz can therefore not assure the operating safety of the vehi- cle when such tires are used. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter for information on tested and recom- mended rims and tires for summer and winter operation.

Operation Tires and wheels

Important guidelines

앫 Use only sets of tires and rims of the

same type and make.

앫 Tires must be of the correct size for the

rim.

앫 Break in new tires for approximately

60 miles (100 km) at moderate speeds.

앫 Regularly check the tires and rims for

damage.

앫 If vehicle is heavily loaded, check tire

pressure and correct as required.

앫 Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths under 1/8 in (3 mm).

앫 When replacing individual tires, you should mount new tires on the front wheels first (on vehicles with same-sized wheels all around).

233

Operation Tires and wheels

Life of tire

Direction of rotation

The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying factors including but not limited to: 앫 Driving style 앫 Tire pressure 앫 Distance driven

Warning!

Unidirectional tires offer added advantag- es, such as better aquaplaning perfor- mance. To benefit, however, you must ensure that the tires rotate in the direction specified. An arrow on the sidewall indicates the in- tended direction of tire rotation.

Checking tire inflation pressure

Tires and spare tire should be replaced after six years, regardless of the remaining tread.

Warning!

Keep unmounted tires in a cool, dry place with as little exposure to light as possible. Protect tires from contact with oil, grease and gasoline.

If the tire pressure repeatedly drops 앫 check the tires for punctures from for-

eign objects

앫 check to see whether air is leaking from

the valves or from around the rim

If the tires are warm you should only cor- rect the tire pressure if it is too low for cur- rent operating conditions. A table on the fuel filler flap lists the spec- ified tire inflation pressures for warm and cold tires as well as for various operating conditions.

The pressures listed for light loads are minimum values offering high driving comfort. Increased inflation pressures listed for heavier loads may also be used for light loads. These higher pressures produce favorable handling characteristics. The ride of the vehicle, however, will be somewhat harder. Never exceed the max. values or inflate tires below the min. values listed in the fuel filler flap.

Correct the tire pressure only when tires are cold. Regularly check your tire pressure at inter- vals of no more than 14 days.

234

Tire pressure changes by approximately 1.5 psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air temperature change. Keep this in mind when checking tire pressure where the temperature is different from the outside temperature. Tire temperature and tire pressure are also increased while driving, depending on the driving speed and the tire load.

Warning!

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified vehicle capacity weight (as indicat- ed by the label on the pillar in the driver’s door opening). Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout.

Check the spare tire periodically for condi- tion and inflation. Spare tires will age and become worn over time even if never used, and thus should be inspected and replaced when necessary.

Follow recommended inflation pressures.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflating tires can result in sudden deflation (blowout) be- cause they are more likely to become punc- tured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.