2003 Mercedes-benz C Class Coupe Owners Manual

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

Rotating wheels

Warning!

Rotate front and rear wheels only if they are of the same size.

On vehicles with the same wheel size all around, wheels can be rotated every 3000 to 6000 miles (5000 to 10000 km), or

Operation Tires and wheels

sooner if necessary, according to the de- gree of tire wear. The same direction of tire rotation must be retained. Rotate the wheels before the characteris- tic tire wear pattern becomes visible (shoulder wear on front wheels and tread center wear on rear wheels). Thoroughly clean the inner side of the wheels after each rotation. Check and en- sure proper tire inflation pressure.

Warning!

Have the tightening torque checked after changing a wheel. Wheels could become loose if not tightened with a torque of 80 ft.lb. (110 Nm).

Use only genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for your vehicle's rims.

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Operation Winter driving Winter driving Before the onset of winter have your vehi- cle winterized at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. This service in- cludes: 앫 Check of anticorrosion and antifreeze

concentration.

앫 Addition of cleaning concentrate to the water of the windshield and headlamp cleaning system. Add MB Concentrate “S” to a premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze which is formulated for below freezing temperatures (컄 page 324).

236

앫 Battery test. Battery capacity drops

with decreasing ambient temperature. A well charged battery helps to ensure that the engine can be started, even at low ambient temperatures.

앫 Tire change. We recommend M+S rat- ed radial-ply tires on all four wheels for the winter season.

Winter tires

Always use winter tires at temperatures below 39°F (4°C) and whenever wintry road conditions prevail. Use of winter tires is the only way to achieve the maximum ef- fectiveness of the ABS and ESP in winter operation. For safe handling, ensure that all mounted winter tires are of the same make and have the same tread design.

Warning!

Winter tires with a tread depth under 0.16 in (4 mm) must be replaced. They are no long- er suitable for winter operation.

Always observe the speed rating of the winter tires installed on your vehicle. If the maximum speed for which your tires are rated is below the speed rating of your ve- hicle, you must place a notice to this effect where it will be seen by the driver. Such no- tices are available from your tire dealer or from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter.

Warning!

Snow chains

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

When driving with snow chains, you may wish to deactivate the ESP (컄 page 75) before setting the vehicle in motion. This will improve the vehi- cle‘s traction.

If you use your spare tire when winter tires are fitted on the other wheels, be aware that the difference in tire characteristics may very well impair turning stability and that overall driving stability may be reduced. Adapt your driving style accordingly.

Have the spare tire replaced with a winter tire at the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Block heater (Canada only)

The engine is equipped with a block heat- er. The electrical cable may be installed at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Operation Winter driving

Please observe the following guidelines when using snow chains: 앫 Use of snow chains is not permissible

with all wheel/tire combinations.

앫 Chains should only be used on the rear

wheels. Follow the manufacturer's mounting instructions.

앫 Use only snow chains that are ap-

proved by Mercedes-Benz. Your autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to advise you on this subject.

Use of snow chains is not permissible with tire sizes 225/50 R16 and with tire sizes 225/45 R17.

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Operation Maintenance Maintenance We strongly recommend that you have your vehicle serviced by your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, in accordance with the Service Booklet at the times called for by the FSS (Flexible Service System). Failure to have the vehicle maintained in accordance with the Service Booklet at the designated times/mileage called for by the FSS may result in vehicle damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. FSS will notify you when your next service is due. Approximately one month before your next service is due, one of the following mes- sages will appear in the multifunction dis- play while you are driving or when you switch on the ignition (example service A):

SERVICE A - IN xx DAYS SERVICE A - IN xx MILES (KM) SERVICE A - DUE NOW

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The type of service due is indicated in the multifunction display field: 9 Minor service (A) ´ Major service (B)

The interval between services depends on your driving habits. A gentle driving style, moderate engine speeds and the avoidance of short distance trips will lengthen the interval between services.

Clearing the service indicator

The service indicator is automatically cleared 앫 after 10 seconds when you switch on the ignition or when reaching the ser- vice threshold while driving.

앫 after 30 seconds, once the suggested

service term had passed.

You can also clear it yourself by pressing the reset knob on the instrument cluster (컄 page 22).

Service term exceeded

If you have exceeded the suggested ser- vice term a signal sounds every time when you switch on the ignition and you will see the following message in the multifunction display:

SERVICE A EXCEEDED BY xx DAYS SERVICE A EXCEEDED BY xx MILES (KM)

The Mercedes-Benz Center will reset the service indicator following a completed service.

Calling up the service indicator

왘 Switch ignition on.

The standard display of the control sys- tem appears (컄 page 105).

왘 Press button k or j on the mul- tifunction steering wheel until the FSS indicator appears in the multifunction display.

If the battery is disconnected, the days of disconnection will not be included in the count shown by the service indica- tor. To arrive at the true service dead- line, you will need to subtract these days from the days shown in the ser- vice indicator. Do not confuse the service indicator with the engine oil level indicator :.

Resetting the service indicator

In the event that the service on your vehi- cle is not carried out by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, you can reset the service indicator yourself. 왘 Switch ignition on.

The standard display of the control sys- tem appears (컄 page 105).

왘 Press button k or j on the mul- tifunction steering wheel until the FSS indicator appears in the display.

왘 Press the reset knob for about four

seconds. This message appears in the display: DO YOU WANT TO RESET SERVICE INTER- VAL? CONFIRM BY PRESSING RESET (R) BUTTON

왘 To confirm, hold down the reset knob

for about four seconds. The service indicator now displays the reset interval.

Operation Maintenance

If the service indicator was inadvertent- ly reset, have a Mercedes-Benz Center correct it. Only reset if the proper service has been performed. Resetting the system without performing the proper service as called for by the FSS will cause the FSS to incorrectly determine the next service interval which will result in en- gine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

239

Operation Vehicle care Vehicle care Cleaning and care of vehicle

Warning!

Many cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are poisonous, others are flammable. Always follow the instructions on the partic- ular container. Always open your vehicle’s doors or windows when cleaning the inside.

Never use fluids or solvents that are not de- signed for cleaning your vehicle.

While in operation, even while parked, your vehicle is subjected to varying external in- fluences which, if gone unchecked, can at- tack the paintwork as well as the underbody and cause lasting damage. Such damage is caused not only by ex- treme and varying climatic conditions, but also by: 앫 Air pollution 앫 Road salt 앫 Tar, gravel and stone chipping

240

To avoid paint damage, you should imme- diately remove: 앫 Grease and oil 앫 Fuel 앫 Coolant 앫 Brake fluid 앫 Insects 앫 Tree resins etc. Frequent washing reduces and/or elimi- nates the aggressiveness and potency of the above adverse influences. More frequent washings are necessary to deal with unfavorable conditions: 앫 Near the ocean 앫 In industrial areas (smoke, exhaust

emissions)

앫 During winter operation

You should check your vehicle from time to time for stone chipping or other damage. Any damage should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent corrosion. In doing so, do not neglect the underbody of the vehicle. A prerequisite for a thor- ough check is a washing of the underbody followed by a thorough inspection. Dam- aged areas need to be re-undercoated. Your vehicle has been treated at the facto- ry with a wax-base rustproofing in the body cavities which will last for the lifetime of the vehicle. Post-production treatment is neither necessary nor recommended by Mercedes-Benz because of the possibility of incompatibility between materials used in the production process and others ap- plied later. We have selected car-care products and compiled recommendations which are specially matched to our vehicles and which always reflect the latest technology. You can obtain Mercedes-Benz approved car-care products at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosion or damage due to negligent or incorrect care cannot always be removed or repaired with the car-care products recommended here. In such cases it is best to seek aid at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. The following topics deal with the cleaning and care of your vehicle and give important “how-to” information as well as references to Mercedes-Benz approved car-care prod- ucts. Additional information can be found in the booklet ’Vehicle Care Guide’.

Power washer When using a power washer for cleaning the vehicle always observe manufacturer’s operating instructions.

Never use a round nozzle to power wash tires. The intense jet of water can result in damage to the tire. Always replace a damaged tire. Always keep the jet of water moving across the surface. Do not aim directly at electrical parts, electrical connec- tors, seals, or other rubber parts.

Tar stains Quickly remove tar stains before they dry and become more difficult to remove. A tar remover is recommended.

Operation Vehicle care

Paintwork, painted body components Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Care should be applied when water drops on the paint surface do not “bead up”, normally every 3 to 5 months, depending on climate and washing detergent used. Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Cleaner should be applied if the paint surface shows signs of embedded dirt (i.e. loss of gloss). Do not apply any of these products or wax if your vehicle is parked in the sun or if the hood is still hot. Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up Stick for quick and provisional repairs of minor paint damage (i.e. chips from stones, vehi- cle doors etc.).

241

Thoroughly spray the vehicle with a dif- fused jet of water. Direct only a very weak spray towards the ventilation intake. Use plenty of water and rinse the sponge and chamois frequently. Rinse with clear water and thoroughly dry with a chamois. Do not allow cleaning agents to dry on the finish. Due to the width of the vehicle, fold in out- side mirrors prior to running the vehicle through an automatic car wash to prevent damage to the mirrors. In the winter, thoroughly remove all traces of road salt as soon as possible. When washing the underbody, do not for- get to clean the inner sides of the wheels.

Ornamental moldings For regular cleaning and care of very dirty chrome-plated parts, use a chrome clean- er.

Headlamps, tail lamps, turn signal lenses Use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo, with plenty of water. To prevent scratches, never apply strong force and use only a soft, non-scratchy cloth when cleaning the lenses. Do not at- tempt to wipe dirty lenses with a dry cloth or sponge.

Operation Vehicle care

Engine cleaning Prior to cleaning the engine compartment make sure to protect electrical compo- nents and connectors from contact with water and cleaning agents. Corrosion protection, such as MB Anticor- rosion Wax should be applied to the engine compartment after every engine cleaning. Before applying, all control linkage bush- ings and joints should be lubricated. The poly-V-belt and all pulleys should be pro- tected from any wax.

Vehicle washing Do not use hot water or wash your vehicle in direct sunlight. Use only a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz ap- proved Car Shampoo.

242

Light alloy wheels Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care should be used for regular cleaning of the light alloy wheels. If possible, clean wheels once a week with Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care, us- ing a soft bristle brush and a strong spray of water. Follow instructions on container.

Use only acid-free cleaning materials. Acid could lead to corrosion.

Wiper blades Clean the wiper blade inserts with a clean cloth and detergent solution.

For safety reasons, switch off wipers and remove key from starter switch be- fore cleaning the wiper blades, other- wise the wiper motor can suddenly turn on and cause injury.

Window cleaning Use a window cleaning solution on all glass surfaces. An automotive glass cleaner is recommended.

For safety reasons, switch off wipers and remove key from starter switch be- fore cleaning the windshield, otherwise the wiper motor can suddenly turn on and cause injury.

Operation Vehicle care

Instrument cluster Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe with a cloth moist- ened in lukewarm solution. Do not use scouring agents.

Steering wheel and gear selector lever Wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care.

Cup holder Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe with a cloth moist- ened in lukewarm solution. Do not use scouring agents.

243

Operation Vehicle care

Hard plastic trim items Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto soft lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure.

Headliner Clean with soft bristle brush, or use a dry-shampoo cleaner in case of excessive dirt.

Seat belts The webbing must not be treated with chemical cleaning agents. Use only clear, lukewarm water and soap. Do not dry the webbing at temperatures above 176°F (80°C) or in direct sunlight.

Warning!

Leather upholstery Using aftermarket seat covers or wearing clothing that have the tendency to give off coloring (e.g. when wet etc.) may cause the upholstery to become permanently dis- colored. By lining the seats with a proper intermediate cover, contact-discoloration will be prevented. Wipe leather upholstery with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care. Exercise particular care when cleaning per- forated leather as its underside should not become wet.

MB Tex upholstery Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto soft lintfree cloth and apply with light pressure.

Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be able to provide adequate protection.

Plastic and rubber parts Do not use oil or wax on these parts.

244

Practical hints What to do if …

Where will I find ...?

Unlocking/locking in an emergency

Opening/closing in an emergency

Replacing bulbs

Replacing wiper blades

Flat tire

Battery

Jump starting

Towing the vehicle

Fuses

245

Practical hints What to do if … What to do if … Lamps in instrument cluster

General information: If a bulb in the instrument cluster fails to light up during the bulb self-check when

turning the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 2, have it checked and replaced if necessary.

Problem v The yellow ESP warning lamp

lights up while driving.

Possible cause The ESP is deactivated. Risk of accident! Adapt your speed and driving to the prevail- ing road conditions.

v The yellow ESP warning lamp

flashes while driving.

The ESP or traction control has come into op- eration because of detected traction loss in at least one tire.

Suggested solution 왘 Turn the ESP back on (컄 page 75). If the ESP cannot be turned back on, have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possi- ble. 왘 When driving off apply as little throttle

as possible.

왘 While driving ease up on the accelera-

tor.

왘 Adapt your speed and driving to the

prevailing road and weather condi- tions.

왘 Do not deactivate the ESP. Excep-

tions: (컄 page 76).

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of accidents.

246

Problem - The yellow ABS malfunction indi- cator lamp comes on while driv- ing.

Possible cause The ABS has detected a malfunction and has switched off. The BAS and the ESP are also switched off (see messages in display). The brake system is still functioning normally but without the ABS available.

The charging voltage has fallen below 10 volts and the ABS has switched off.

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution 왘 Continue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability.

왘 Have the system checked at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of an accidents. 왘 When the voltage is above this value

again, the ABS is operational again.

왘 If necessary, have the generator and

battery checked.

247

Practical hints What to do if …

Problem 1 The red SRS indicator lamp lights

up while driving.

Possible cause There is a malfunction in the restraint sys- tems. The airbags or emergency tensioning device (ETDs) could deploy unexpectedly or fail to activate in an accident.

Suggested solution 왘 Drive with added caution to the near-

est authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter.

Warning!

In the event a malfunction of the SRS is indi- cated as outlined above, the SRS may not be operational. For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the system checked; otherwise the SRS may not be activated when needed in an acci- dent, which could result in serious or fatal injury, or it might deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could result in an acci- dent and/or injury to you or to others.

248

Problem 3 (Canada only) ; (USA only)

The red brake warning lamp lights up while driving and you hear a warning sound. The red brake warning lamp lights up while driving.

Warning!

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

Practical hints What to do if …

Possible cause

Suggested solution

You are driving with the parking brake set.

왘 Release the parking brake

(컄 page 46).

There is insufficient brake fluid in the reser- voir.

왘 Risk of accident! Carefully stop the

vehicle and notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not add brake fluid! This will not solve the problem.

If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness and leaks.

249

Practical hints What to do if …

Problem ? The yellow “CHECK ENGINE”

malfunction indicator lamp comes on while driving.

Possible cause There is a malfunction in: 앫 The fuel management system 앫 The ignition system 앫 The emission control system 앫 Systems which impact emissions Such malfunctions may result in excessive emissions values and may switch the engine to its limp-home (emergency operation) mode.

The fuel cap is not closed tight. Your gas tank is empty.

< The red seat belt warning lamp

blinks for a brief period after starting the engine.

The warning lamp reminds you to fasten seat belts.

Suggested solution 왘 Have the vehicle checked as soon as

possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. An on-board diagnostic connector is used by the service station to link the vehicle to the shop diagnostics sys- tem. It allows the accurate identifica- tion of system malfunctions through the readout of diagnostic trouble codes. It is located in the front left area of the footwell next to the park- ing brake pedal.

왘 Check the fuel cap. 왘 After refuelling start the engine three

or four times in succession.

The limp-home mode is canceled. You do not need to have your vehicle checked. 왘 Fasten your seat belt.

The yellow fuel tank reserve warning lamp lights up while driving.

The fuel level has gone below the reserve mark.

왘 Refuel at the next gas station

(컄 page 224).

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Lamp in center console

Problem 7 The indicator lamp lights up.

7 The indicator lamp does not light

up with a BabySmartTM child seat properly installed on the front passenger seat.

Possible cause A BabySmartTM child seat is installed on the front passenger seat. Therefore the front passenger airbag is switched off. The system is malfunctioning when there is no BabySmartTM child seat installed on the front passenger seat. The system is malfunctioning.

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution

왘 Have the system checked as soon as

possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

왘 Make sure that there is nothing be-

tween seat cushion and child seat and check installation of the child seat.

왘 If the light remains out, have the sys- tem checked as soon as possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not use the BabySmartTM restraint to transport children on the front pas- senger seat until the system has been repaired.

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Practical hints What to do if …

Messages in the display

The control system shows warning and malfunction messages in the multifunction display. Certain warning and malfunction messag- es are accompanied by an audible signal. Address these messages accordingly and follow the additional instructions given in this Operator’s Manual. Selecting the malfunction memory menu in the control system (컄 page 112) displays both cleared and uncleared messages. High-priority messages appear in the mul- tifunction display with a red background. Cetrain messages of high priority cannot be cleared from the multifunction display using the reset knob (컄 page 22). Other messages of high priority and mes- sages of less immediate priority (regular display colors) can be cleared from the multifunction display using the reset knob and are then stored in the malfunction message memory (컄 page 112).

252

Turning the key in starter switch to position 2 causes all lamps as well as the multifunction display to come on. Ensure that they are all in working or- der before starting your journey.

On the pages that follow, you will find a compilation of all the messages that may appear in the display.

Warning!

All categories of messages contain impor- tant information which should be taken note of and, where a malfunction is indicated, ad- dressed as soon as possible at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Failure to repair condition noted may cause damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty, or result in property dam- age or personal injury.

Warning!

No messages will be displayed if either the instrument cluster or the multifunction dis- play is inoperative.

Contact your nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Display

ABS SYSTEM VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The ABS has detected a malfunction and has switched off. The ESP and the BAS are also deactivated. The brake system is still functioning normally but without the ABS available.

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution 왘 Continue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability.

왘 Have the system checked at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of an accident.

DISPLAY DEFECTIVE VISIT WORKSHOP!

ABS or the ABS display is malfunctioning. 왘 Continue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability.

왘 Have the system checked at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of an accident.

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Practical hints What to do if …

BRAKE ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE!

BRAKE ASSIST VISIT WORKSHOP!

DISPLAY DEFECTIVE VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The charging voltage has fallen below 10 volts and the BAS has switched off.

The BAS has detected a malfunction and switched off. The brake system is still func- tioning normally but without the BAS avail- able.

Suggested solution 왘 When the voltage is above this value again, the BAS is operational again. 왘 If necessary, have the generator and

battery checked.

왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Have the system checked at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of accident.

BAS or the BAS display is malfunctioning. 왘 Continue driving with added caution.

왘 Have the system checked at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of accident.

Display BAS

254

Display

BATTERY/ALTERNATOR VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The battery was charged with a battery charger or jump started. The battery is no longer charging. Possible causes: 앫 alternator malfunctioning 앫 broken poly-V-belt

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution 왘 Have the battery checked at a ser-

vice station.

왘 Stop immediately and check the

poly-V-belt. If it is broken: 왘 Do not continue to drive. Otherwise the engine will overheat due to an in- operative water pump which may re- sult in damage to the engine. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If it is intact: 왘 Drive immediately to the nearest au-

thorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

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Practical hints What to do if …

Display 3 (Canada only) ; (USA only)

BRAKE WEAR VISIT WORKSHOP!

BRAKE FLUID VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The brake pads have reached their wear limit.

Suggested solution 왘 Have the brake pads replaced as

soon as possible.

There is insufficient brake fluid in the reservoir.

왘 Risk of accident! Stop the vehicle and notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not add brake fluid! This will not solve the problem.

Warning!

Driving with this message displayed can re- sult in an accident. Have your brake system checked immediately. Don’t add brake fluid before checking the brake system. Overfill- ing the brake fluid reservoir can result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the brake fluid catching fire. You can be se- riously burned.

If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness and leaks.

Brake pad thickness must be visually checked by a qualified technician at the intervals specified in the service book- let.

256

Display

COOLANT CHECK LEVEL

Possible cause The coolant level is too low.

Warning!

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

Do not ignore the low engine coolant level warning. Extended driving with the message and symbol displayed may cause serious engine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Do not drive without sufficient amount of coolant in the cooling system. The engine will overheat, causing major en- gine damage.

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution 왘 Add coolant (컄 page 229). 왘 If you have to add coolant frequently, have the cooling system checked by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter.

257

Practical hints What to do if …

Display Ï

COOLANT STOP, ENGINE OFF!

Possible cause The coolant is too hot.

Warning!

Driving when your engine is badly overheat- ed 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.

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

Suggested solution 왘 Stop the vehicle and turn off the en-

gine.

왘 Only start the engine again after the message disappears. You could oth- erwise damage the engine.

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

258

Display Ï

COOLANT STOP, ENGINE OFF!

Possible cause The poly-V-belt could be broken.

COOLANT VISIT WORKSHOP!

The cooling fan for the coolant is malfunc- tioning.

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution 왘 Stop immediately and check the

poly-V-belt. If it is broken: 왘 Do not continue to drive. Otherwise the engine will overheat due to an in- operative water pump which may re- sult in damage to the engine. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If it is intact: 왘 Do not continue to drive the vehicle with this message displayed. Doing so could result in serious engine damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. 왘 Observe the coolant temperature

gauge.

왘 Have the fan replaced as soon as

possible.

259

Practical hints What to do if …

Display

ESP

DOOR OPEN!

ESP NOT AVAILABLE!

Possible cause You are attempting to drive with one or more doors open. The ESP is deactivated because of a mal- function or interrupted power supply. The ABS might not be operational.

The self-diagnosis has not been complet- ed.

Suggested solution 왘 Close the doors.

왘 With vehicle stationary and the en-

gine running, turn the steering wheel completely to the left and then to the right to synchronize the ESP.

If the ESP message does not go out: 왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of accident. The display will clear itself after driving a short distance at more than 12 mph (20 km/h).

260

Display ESP

ESP NOT AVAILABLE!

Possible cause The charging voltage has fallen below 10 volts and the ESP has switched off.

ESP VISIT WORKSHOP!

The ESP is deactivated because of a mal- function.

DISPLAY DEFECTIVE VISIT WORKSHOP!

The ESP or the ESP display is malfunction- ing.

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution 왘 When the voltage is above this value

again, the ESP is operational again.

왘 If necessary, have the generator and

battery checked.

왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of accident. 왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of accident.

261

Practical hints What to do if …

Display

ENGINE OIL LEVEL STOP, ENGINE OFF!

Possible cause There is no oil in the engine. There is a dan- ger of engine damage.

Suggested solution 왘 Carefully bring the vehicle to a halt as

soon as possible.

ENGINE OIL LEVEL CHECK LEVEL! ENGINE OIL LEVEL REDUCE OIL LEVEL!

ENGINE OIL VISIT WORKSHOP!

The engine oil level is too low.

You have added too much engine oil. There is a risk of damaging the engine or the cat- alytic converter. The engine oil has dropped to a critical lev- el.

왘 Turn off the engine. 왘 Add engine oil. 왘 Check the engine oil level

(컄 page 227) and add oil as required. 왘 Have oil siphoned. Observe all legal requirements with respect to its dis- posal.

왘 Check the engine oil level

(컄 page 227) and add oil as required. 왘 If you must add engine oil frequently, have the engine checked for possible leaks.

ENGINE OIL LEVEL VISIT WORKSHOP!

There is water in the oil. The measuring system is malfunctioning. 왘 Have the measuring system checked

왘 Have the oil checked.

by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

262

When the “ENGINE OIL LEVEL – CHECK LEVEL!” message appears while the engine is running and at operating temperature, the engine oil level is low. When this occurs, the warning will first come on intermittently and then stay on if the oil level drops further.

If no oil leaks are noted, continue to drive to the nearest gas station where the en- gine oil should be filled up with an ap- proved oil (컄 page 227).

Practical hints What to do if …

The engine oil level warnings should not be ignored. Extended driving with the symbol displayed could result in se- rious engine damage that is not cov- ered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Display

RESERVE FUEL VISIT FILLING STATION! HOOD OPEN! REPLACE KEY VISIT WORKSHOP! AUTOM. LIGHT ON REMOVE KEY! LAMP SENSOR VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The fuel level has dropped below the re- serve mark. You are driving with the hood open. No additional code available for SmartKey. 왘 Change the batteries (컄 page 294).

Suggested solution 왘 Refuel at the next gas station

왘 Close the hood (컄 page 226).

(컄 page 224).

You have forgotten to remove the key.

왘 Remove the key from the starter

The lamp sensor is malfunctioning. The headlamps switch on automatically.

switch.

왘 Set lamp operation to manual. 왘 Switch on headlamps using the exte-

rior lamp switch.

263

Practical hints What to do if …

LOW BEAM, L CHECK LAMP! LOW BEAM, R CHECK LAMP! DISPLAY DEFECTIVE VISIT WORKSHOP! TURN SIGNAL, LR CHECK LAMP! TURN SIGNAL, RR CHECK LAMP! TURN SIG. IN MIRROR, L CHECK LAMP!

TURN SIG. IN MIRROR, R CHECK LAMP!

Possible cause The left low beam lamp is malfunctioning. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Suggested solution

Center as soon as possible.

The right low beam lamp is malfunctioning. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

The display for the lamps or the system is malfunctioning. The left rear turn signal lamp is malfunc- tioning. The right rear turn signal lamp is malfunc- tioning. The left turn signal in the side mirror is mal- functioning. This message will only appear if all light emitting diodes have stopped working. The right turn signal in the side mirror is malfunctioning. This message will only ap- pear if all light emitting diodes have stopped working.

Center as soon as possible.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

왘 Have the LEDs replaced as soon as

possible.

왘 Have the LEDs replaced as soon as

possible.

Display

264

Display

TURN SIGNAL, LF CHECK LAMP! TURN SIGNAL RF CHECK LAMP! BRAKE LAMP VISIT WORKSHOP! BRAKE LAMP L CHECK LAMP! BRAKE LAMP R CHECK LAMP! 3RD BRAKE LAMP CHECK LAMP! HIGH BEAM, L CHECK LAMP! HIGH BEAM, R CHECK LAMP!

Practical hints What to do if …

Possible cause The left front turn signal lamp is malfunc- tioning. The right front turn signal lamp is malfunc- tioning. Brake lamp illumination is delayed or lamp is permanently on. The left brake lamp is malfunctioning.

Suggested solution 왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

The right brake lamp is malfunctioning.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

The high mounted brake lamp is malfunc- tioning. The left high beam lamp is malfunctioning. 왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

The right high beam lamp is malfunction- ing.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

265

Practical hints What to do if …

LICENSE PLATE LAMP L CHECK LAMP! LICENSE PLATE LAMP R CHECK LAMP! FRONT FOGLAMP, L CHECK LAMP! FRONT FOGLAMP, R CHECK LAMP! REAR FOGLAMP CHECK LAMP! REVERSE LAMP L CHECK LAMP! REVERSE LAMP R CHECK LAMP! TAIL LAMP, L CHECK LAMP! SUBSTITUTE LAMP ON!

Display

266

Possible cause The left license plate lamp is malfunction- ing. The right license plate lamp is malfunction- ing. The left front fog lamp is malfunctioning. 왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

Suggested solution 왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

The right front fog lamp is malfunctioning. 왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

The rear fog lamp is malfunctioning.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

The left backup lamp is malfunctioning.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

The right backup lamp is malfunctioning. 왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

The left tail lamp is malfunctioning. A back- up bulb is being used.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

Practical hints What to do if …

Display

!(Canada only) ; (USA only)

TAIL LAMP, R CHECK LAMP! SUBSTITUTE LAMP ON! SIDE MARKER LAMP, LF CHECK LAMP! SUBSTITUTE LAMP ON! SIDE MARKER LAMP, RF CHECK LAMP! SUBSTITUTE LAMP ON! LIGHTS TURN OFF LAMPS!

AUTOM. LIGHT ON REMOVE KEY! PARKING BRAKE RELEASE PARKING BRAKE!

SEAT BELT SYSTEM VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The right tail lamp is malfunctioning. A backup bulb is being used.

Suggested solution 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

The left side marker lamp is malfunction- ing. A backup bulb is being used.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

The right side marker lamp is malfunction- ing. A backup bulb is being used.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

This display appears if the driver’s door is opened with the engine shut off and no key in the starter switch. Key in the starter switch position 1 or 2. 왘 Remove key from the starter switch.

왘 Insert key in the starter switch. 왘 Switch off lights.

You are driving with the parking brake set. 왘 Release the parking brake

(컄 page 46).

The seat belt system is malfunctioning.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

267

Possible cause The display reminds you and your passen- ger to fasten the seat belt. The display reminds you to fasten the seat belt. The steering column is not properly locked. 왘 Lock the steering column properly

Suggested solution 왘 Fasten the seat belts.

왘 Fasten the seat belts.

(컄 page 38).

The power steering gear oil level is too low. There is a danger of steering gear damage.

왘 Have the system checked by an au-

thorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Do not add steering oil without checking the steering system.

Do not drive the vehicle. Have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Practical hints What to do if …

Display

Warning!

FRT. PASSENGER SEAT LOOK! DRIVER’S SEAT BELT FASTEN SEAT BELT! STEERING WHEEL ADJUST LOCK! POWER STEERING FLUID VISIT WORKSHOP!

If the level of steering gear oil in reservoir is too low, the steering power assistance could fail. Much greater effort will then be needed to turn the steering wheel.

268

Display

ì

Ê

TELE AID VISIT WORKSHOP!

FUNCTION NOT AVAILABLE

TRUNK OPEN!

RESTRAINT SYSTEM VISIT WORKSHOP!

Warning!

In the event a malfunction of the SRS is indi- cated as outlined above, the SRS may not be operational. For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the system checked; otherwise the

Practical hints What to do if …

Possible cause One or more main functions of the Tele Aid system are malfunctioning.

Suggested solution 왘 Have the Tele Aid system checked by

an authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter.

This display appears if button ì or í on the multifunction steering wheel is pressed and the vehicle is not equipped with a telephone. This message will appear whenever the trunk lid is open. The system is malfunctioning.

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.

왘 Close the trunk lid.

왘 Drive with added caution to the near- est authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter.

269

Practical hints What to do if …

Display

±

UNDERVOLTAGE ENGINE ON!

UNDERVOLTAGE SWITCH CONSUMERS OFF! VISIT WORKSHOP! DISPLAY DEFECTIVE

VISIT WORKSHOP! DISPLAY DEFECTIVE

WASHER FLUID CHECK LEVEL!

270

Possible cause The battery has insufficient voltage and can no longer supply the convenience functions such as seat heater*. The battery is malfunctioning.

The instrument cluster display is malfunc- tioning.

Certain electronic systems are unable to relay information to the control system. The following systems may have failed: 앫 Coolant temperature gauge 앫 Tachometer 앫 Cruise control display The fluid level has dropped to about 1/3 of total reservoir capacity.

Suggested solution Start the engine (컄 page 44).

왘 Have the battery checked at a ser-

vice station.

왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

왘 Have the electronic systems checked

by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center (컄 page 250).

왘 Add washer fluid (컄 page 232).

Where will I find ...? First aid kit

The first aid kit is stored in the trunk be- hind the left trim panel.

왘 Turn handles 2. 왘 Remove the trim panel 1.

왘 Loosen the securing strap 2. 왘 Remove first aid kit 1.

Check expiration dates and contents for completeness at least once a year and replace missing/expired items.

Practical hints Where will I find ...?

Spare wheel

The spare wheel is located under the trunk floor. 왘 Lift trunk floor and engage handle in

the upper edge of the trunk.

1 Spare wheel 2 Storage tray with vehicle tool kit. 3 Mounting screw for spare wheel/cover

for vehicle tools

Removing the spare wheel 왘 Turn the mounting screw 3 counter-

clockwise.

왘 Remove the spare wheel 1.

271

Practical hints Where will I find ...?

Storing the spare wheel 왘 Place spare wheel 1 in wheel well. 왘 Turn mounting screw 3 clockwise to its

stop to secure the spare wheel.

왘 Lower the trunk floor before closing the

5 Towing eye bolt 6 Spare wheel bolts

Vehicle jack

trunk lid.

Vehicle tool kit

The vehicle tool kit and air pump are stored in the wheel well below the trunk floor.

왘 Remove the vehicle jack from the spare

wheel well under the trunk floor.

왘 Push the crank handle up.

왘 Turn the crank handle clockwise until it

engages (operational position).

Before storing the vehicle jack in its com- partment: 앫 It should be fully collapsed. 앫 The handle must be folded in (storage

position).

1 Vehicle jack 2 Air pump 3 Alignment bolt 4 Wheel wrench

272

Warning!

Spare wheel bolts

The jack is designed exclusively for jacking up the vehicle at the jack take-up brackets built into both sides of the vehicle. To help avoid personal injury, use the jack only to lift the vehicle during a wheel change. Never get beneath the vehicle while it is supported by the jack. Keep hands and feet away from the area under the lifted vehicle. Always firmly set parking brake and block wheels before raising vehicle with jack.

Do not disengage parking brake while the vehicle is raised. Be certain that the jack is always vertical (plumb line) when in use, es- pecially on hills. Always try to use the jack on level surface. Make sure that the jack arm is fully seated in the jack take-up brack- et. Always lower the vehicle onto sufficient capacity jack stands before working under the vehicle.

1 Wheel bolt for light alloy rims 2 Wheel bolt for light alloy spare wheel

rim size 4 1/2B x15 H2
Wheel bolts 2 must be used when mounting spare wheel rim size 4 1/2B x15 H2 (컄 page 313). The use of any wheel bolts other than wheel bolts 2 for spare wheel rim size 4 1/2B x15 H2 can cause physical damage to the vehicle.

Practical hints Where will I find ...?

Warning!

Be sure to use the original length wheel bolts when remounting the original wheel af- ter it has been repaired.

Refer to “Technical data” section (컄 page 313) for model and spare wheel rim size information.

273

i Unlocking your vehicle with the me- chanical key will trigger the anti-theft alarm system. To cancel the alarm, do one of the following: 앫 Press button Œ or ‹ on the

SmartKey.

앫 Insert the key in the starter switch.

Practical hints Unlocking/locking in an emergency Unlocking/locking in an emergency Unlocking the vehicle

Unlocking the driver’s door If you are unable to unlock the driver’s door using the SmartKey, open the door using the mechanical key.

3 Unlocking 4 Locking 왘 Unlock the door with the mechanical

key. To do so, push the mechanical key in the lock until it stops and turn it to the left.

1 Mechanical key locking tab 2 Mechanical key 왘 Move locking tab 1 in direction of ar-

row and slide the mechanical key out of the housing.

274

Practical hints Unlocking/locking in an emergency

왘 Fold backrest 3 forward. 왘 Remove cover 1 from the trim on the

trunk lid.

왘 Push release lever 2 all the way to the

right.

왘 Open the trunk lid.

The trunk lid swings open upwards. Al- ways make sure that there is sufficient overhead clearance.

Locking the vehicle

If you are unable to lock the vehicle with the SmartKey, lock it with the mechanical key as follows: 왘 Close the passenger door and the trunk

lid.

왘 Press the central locking switch in the

cockpit (컄 page 87).

왘 Check to see whether the locking knob on the passenger door is still visible. If necessary push it down manually. 왘 Lock the driver’s door with the me-

chanical key.

Unlocking the trunk lid If you are unable to unlock the trunk lid with the SmartKey, you can use the emer- gency release on the inside of the trunk lid to unlock it.

1 Cover 2 Release lever 3 Rear bench seat backrest

275

Practical hints Unlocking/locking in an emergency

Changing batteries

If the batteries in the SmartKey card are discharged, the vehicle can no longer be locked or unlocked. It is recommended to have the batteries replaced at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center.

When changing batteries, always re- place both batteries. The required replacement batteries are available at any Mercedes-Benz Center.

왘 Insert the mechanical key in side open-

ing and push gray slide. The battery compartment is unlatched. 왘 Pull the battery compartment out of the

key housing in direction of arrow.

Warning!

SmartKey

Keep the batteries out of reach of children.

If a battery is swallowed, seek medical help immediately.

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.

276

1 Mechanical key 2 Battery compartment Replacement batteries: Lithium, type CR 2025 or equivalent. 왘 Remove mechanical key (컄 page 274).

3 Battery 4 Contact spring 왘 Remove the batteries. 왘 Using a lint-free cloth, insert new bat- teries under the contact spring with the plus (+) side facing up.

왘 Return battery compartment into hous-

ing until it locks in place.

Fuel filler flap

Manually unlocking the transmission selector lever

왘 Insert a tool 2 (e.g. screwdriver) into

the opening.

Practical hints Unlocking/locking in an emergency

In the case of power failure the transmis- sion selector lever can be manually un- locked, e.g. to tow the vehicle.

왘 Open the trunk lid. 왘 Fold right-side tail lamp trim aside 왘 Reach inside through opening. 왘 Turn release knob 1 clockwise (arrow). The fuel filler flap can now be opened.

왘 Open the storage compartment in front

of the center armrest.

왘 Release coin holder 1 (e.g. using a

small coin).

왘 Swing coin holder 1 aside.

왘 Perform the following two steps simul-

taneously: 왘 Push the tool down. 왘 Move selector lever from

position P.

왘 Reinstall the coin holder after removing

the tool from the opening.

The selector lever is locked again when moving it to position P.

277

Practical hints Opening/closing in an emergency Opening/closing in an emergency Panorama sliding/pop-up roof

The panorama sliding/pop-up roof drive is located behind the lens of the interior over- head light. You can open or close the panorama slid- ing/pop-up roof manually should an elec- trical malfunction occur.

왘 Pry off lens 1 using a screwdriver.

278

왘 Slide both locking tabs 2 in direction of

arrow.

왘 Lower rear of cover and remove. 왘 Remove cover.

Do not disconnect electrical connec- tors.

왘 Obtain crank 3. 왘 Insert crank 3 through left hand side

motor hole 4.

왘 Turn crank 3 clockwise to:

앫 slide roof closed 앫 raise roof at the rear

왘 Turn crank 3 counterclockwise to:

앫 slide roof open 앫 lower roof at the rear

The panorama sliding/pop-up roof must be resynchronized after being operated man- ually.

왘 Move the switch in the “close” direc- tion and wait until the panorama slid- ing/pop-up roof is fully closed. Hold the switch for approximately one second.

The panorama sliding/pop-up roof is syn- chronized when the panorama slid- ing/pop-up roof opens automatically.

Synchronizing the panorama slid- ing/pop-up roof 왘 Switch on the ignition. 왘 Move the switch in the “close” direc- tion and wait until the sunshades are fully closed. Hold the switch for approximately one second.

왘 Move the switch in the “open” direction and wait until the sunshades are fully opened. Hold the switch for approximately one second.

왘 Move the switch in the “open” direction

and wait until the panorama slid- ing/pop-up roof is approximately 4 in (10cm) opened. Hold the switch for approximately one second.

Practical hints Opening/closing in an emergency

279

Bulbs

Practical hints Replacing bulbs Replacing bulbs Safe vehicle operation depends on proper exterior lighting and signaling. It is there- fore essential that all bulbs and lamp as- semblies are in good working order at all times. Correct headlamp adjustment is extremely important. Have headlamps checked and readjusted at regular intervals and when a bulb has been replaced. See your autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center for headlamp adjustment.

Backup bulbs will be brought into use when the following lamps malfunction: 앫 Rear fog lamp 앫 Tail lamps 앫 Standing lamps

280

Front lamps

Lamp

1 Additional turn sig-

nal lamps

2 Turn signal lamp

Halogen headlamp Turn signal lamp Bi-Xenon* headlamp