2011 Mercedes-benz C Class Coupe Owners Manual

Do not shift the transmission into position P(Y page 140) unless the vehicle is stationary. The parking lock should not be used as a brake when parking. In addition to engaging the parking lock, you must always apply the parking brake to secure the vehicle. The SmartKey can only be removed if the transmission is in position P. If the SmartKey is removed from the ignition lock, the selector lever is locked. If the vehicle electronics are malfunctioning, the selector lever may be locked in position P. To release the selector lever lock, see "Releasing the parking lock manually" (Y page 137).

C Reverse gear

Only shift the transmission to R when the vehicle is stationary.

: Transmission position display ; Drive program display The current position of the selector lever is shown by the indicators next to the selector lever. The indicators light up when the SmartKey is inserted into the ignition lock. The indicators go out when the SmartKey is removed from the ignition lock.

132 Automatic transmission

A Neutral

Do not shift the transmission to N while driving. The transmission could otherwise be damaged. No power is transmitted from the engine to the drive wheels. Releasing the brakes will allow you to move the vehicle freely, e.g. to push it or tow it. If ESP® is deactivated or faulty: only shift the transmission to position N if the vehicle is in danger of skidding, e.g. on icy roads. ! Rolling in neutral N can damage

the drive train.

7 Drive

The automatic transmission changes gear automatically. All forward gears are available.

Changing gear The automatic transmission shifts to the individual gears automatically when it is in transmission position D. This automatic gearshifting behavior is determined by: Ra shift range restriction, if selected Rthe selected drive program (Y page 132) Rthe position of the accelerator pedal Rthe road speed

Driving tips AMG vehicles When shifting down, the double-clutch function is active regardless of the currently selected drive program. The double-clutch function reduces load change reactions and is conducive to a sporty driving style. The sound generated by the double-clutch function depends on the drive program selected.

Kickdown Use kickdown for maximum acceleration. X Vehicles for USA (except AMG

vehicles): fully depress the accelerator pedal. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

X Vehicles for Canada and AMG vehicles: depress the accelerator pedal beyond the pressure point. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

Working on the vehicle G WARNING When working on the vehicle, engage the parking brake and shift the automatic transmission into park position P. Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Program selector button General information The program selector button allows you to choose between different driving characteristics.

Example: program selector button

Automatic transmission 133

E Economy

S Sport M Manual

Comfortable, economical driving Sporty driving style Manual gearshifting

i For further information on the automatic

drive program, see (Y page 134).

Only change from automatic drive program E or S to manual drive program M when the vehicle is stationary. X Press program selector button :

repeatedly until the letter for the desired gearshift program appears in the multifunction display.

Only change from automatic drive program C, S or S+ to manual drive program M when the vehicle is stationary. X Turn drive program selector : until the

desired drive program appears in the multifunction display in the speedometer. The drive program indicator on drive program selector : lights up in red.

i The automatic transmission shifts to

automatic drive program C each time the engine is started.

i RS cannot be selected during normal driving. For further information on RACE START, see (Y page 161).

AMG vehicles

Steering wheel paddle shifters

Drive program selector with manual drive program C Controlled Efficiency S Sport S+ SportPlus

Comfortable, economical driving Sporty driving style Extremely sporty driving style Manual gearshifting Optimal vehicle acceleration from a standstill

M Manual RS RACE START

i For further information on the automatic

drive program, see (Y page 134).

: Left-hand steering wheel paddle shifter ; Right-hand steering wheel paddle shifter In the automatic drive program, you can restrict or derestrict the shift range by using the steering wheel paddle shifters (Y page 134). In the manual drive program, you can change gear using the steering wheel paddle shifters or the selector lever (Y page 135). i You can only change gear with the

steering wheel paddle shifters when the transmission is in position D.

134 Automatic transmission

Automatic drive program Drive program E (drive program C on AMG vehicles) is characterized by the following: Rcomfort-oriented engine and automatic

transmission settings

Roptimal fuel consumption resulting from the automatic transmission shifting up sooner

Rthe vehicle pulling away more gently in forward and reverse gears, unless the accelerator pedal is depressed fully

Rincreased sensitivity. This improves driving

stability on slippery road surfaces, for example

Rthe automatic transmission shifting up sooner. This results in the vehicle being driven at lower engine speeds and the wheels being less likely to spin

Drive program S (drive programs S and S+ on AMG vehicles) is characterized by the following: Rsporty engine and automatic transmission

settings

Rthe vehicle pulling away in first gear Rthe automatic transmission shifting up

later

Rthe fuel consumption possibly being higher

as a result of the later automatic transmission shift points

Shift ranges Introduction When the automatic transmission is in position D, it is possible to restrict or derestrict the shift range (Y page 134). The shift range selected is shown in the multifunction display. The automatic transmission shifts only as far as the selected gear.

Shift range = You can use the engine's braking

effect.

5 To use the braking effect of the

engine on downhill gradients and for driving: Ron steep mountain roads Rin mountainous terrain Rin arduous conditions

4 To use the braking effect of the

engine on extremely steep downhill gradients and on long downhill stretches

Restricting the shift range X Press the selector lever to the left towards

D–.

or X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The automatic transmission shifts down one gear and restricts the shift range to the relevant gear.

i If the engine exceeds the maximum engine speed when shifting down, the automatic transmission protects against engine damage by not shifting down.

i If the maximum engine speed for the shift

range is reached and you continue to accelerate, the automatic transmission shifts up in order to prevent the engine from overrevving, even if the shift range is restricted.

Derestricting the shift range X Briefly press the selector lever to the right

towards D+.

or X Pull the right-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The shift range is derestricted.

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Clearing the shift range restriction X Press and hold the selector lever towards

D+ until D is shown once more in the multifunction display.

or X Pull and hold the right-hand steering wheel paddle shifter until D is shown again in the multifunction display. The automatic transmission shifts from the current shift range directly to D.

Selecting the ideal shift range X Press the selector lever to the left towards

D– and hold it in position.

or X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter and hold it in position. The automatic transmission shifts to the gear which allows optimum acceleration and deceleration. To do this, the automatic transmission shifts down one or more gears.

Manual drive program Switching on the manual drive program The manual drive program is only available for vehicles with the dynamic handling package and for AMG vehicles. Manual drive program M is different from drive program S (in AMG vehicles, drive programs S and S+) with regard to spontaneity, responsiveness and smoothness of gear changes. Manual drive program M can be selected using the drive program selector or the program selector button. You can change gears using the steering wheel paddle shifters or the selector lever in manual drive program M if the transmission is in position D. X Press the program selector button

(Y page 132) repeatedly until M appears in the multifunction display.

X AMG vehicles: turn the drive program

selector (Y page 133) until M appears in the multifunction display. The indicator M on the drive program selector lights up in red.

Upshifting i Vehicles with the dynamic handling package: if the maximum engine speed for the shift range is reached and you continue to accelerate, the automatic transmission shifts up, except when manual drive program M is selected.

X Briefly press the selector lever to the right

towards D+.

or X Pull the right-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter (Y page 133). The automatic transmission shifts up to the next gear.

Vehicles with AMG engines ! In manual drive program M, the automatic

transmission does not shift up automatically even when the engine limiting speed for the current gear is reached. When the engine limiting speed is reached, the fuel supply is cut to prevent the engine from overrevving. Always make sure that the engine speed does not reach the red area of the tachometer. There is otherwise a risk of engine damage.

Before the engine speed reaches the red area, an upshift indicator appears in the multifunction display.

: Gear indicator ; Upshift indicator

136 Automatic transmission

Switching off the manual drive program X Vehicles with the dynamic handling package: press the program selector button (Y page 132). M is no longer shown in the multifunction display.

X AMG vehicles: turn the drive program selector (Y page 133) until C, S or S+ appears in the multifunction display.

Downshifting X Briefly press the selector lever to the left

towards D–.

or X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter (Y page 133). The automatic transmission shifts down to the next gear.

i If you brake the vehicle or stop without shifting down, the automatic transmission will shift down to a gear that will allow the vehicle to accelerate or pull away again. i Vehicles with the dynamic handling package: to avoid overrevving the engine when downshifting, the automatic transmission does not shift to a lower gear if this would result in the maximum engine speed being exceeded.

i For maximum acceleration, push the

selector lever to the left or pull and hold the left-hand steering wheel paddle shifter until the transmission shifts to the optimal gear for the current speed.

Kickdown i Vehicles with an AMG engine: it is not possible to use kickdown in manual drive program M.

You can also use kickdown for maximum acceleration in manual drive program M. X Vehicles for USA: fully depress the

accelerator pedal. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

X Vehicles for Canada: depress the

accelerator pedal beyond the pressure point. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

i During kickdown, you cannot change gear using the steering wheel paddle shifters or the selector lever.

Refueling 137

Problems with the transmission Problem The transmission has problems shifting gear.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The transmission is losing oil. X Have the transmission checked at a qualified specialist

workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, immediately.

The acceleration ability is deteriorating. The transmission no longer changes gear.

The transmission is in emergency mode. It is only possible to shift into second gear and reverse gear. X Stop the vehicle. X Shift the transmission to position P. X Switch off the engine. X Wait at least 10 seconds before restarting the engine. X Shift the transmission to position D or R.

If D is selected, the transmission shifts into second gear; if R is selected, the transmission shifts into reverse gear.

X Have the transmission checked at a qualified specialist

workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, immediately.

Releasing the parking lock manually In the event of an electrical malfunction, it is possible to release the selector lever lock manually to move it out of position P, e.g. if you wish to tow the vehicle away.

! Do not use any sharp-edged objects to remove the selector lever gaiter from the center console. This could damage the selector lever gaiter.

X Apply the parking brake. X Pry off selector lever gaiter : with a flat, blunt object, (e.g. a screwdriver wrapped in cloth) from the right-hand edge, pulling it up and out.

X Press release buttons ; down and

simultaneously move the selector lever out of position P. The selector lever can now be moved freely until it is returned to position P.

Refueling Important safety notes G WARNING Gasoline is highly flammable and poisonous. It burns violently and can cause serious personal injury. Never allow sparks, flames or smoking materials near gasoline.

138 Refueling

Turn off the engine before refueling. Whenever you are around gasoline, avoid inhaling fumes and any skin or clothing contact. Direct skin contact with fuels and the inhalation of fuel vapors are damaging to your health. G WARNING Overfilling of the fuel tank may create pressure in the system which could cause a gas discharge. This could cause the gasoline to spray back out when removing the fuel pump nozzle, which could cause personal injury.

! Do not switch on the ignition if you

accidentally refuel with the wrong fuel. Otherwise, the fuel will enter the fuel lines. Notify a qualified specialist workshop and have the fuel tank and fuel lines drained completely.

Gasoline Fuel grade ! You should only refuel with unleaded premium-grade gasoline as this avoids damaging the catalytic converter. If engine running problems are apparent, have the cause checked immediately and repaired. Excess unburned fuel can otherwise enter the catalytic converter, leading to overheating and possibly causing a fire.

! Use a filter when refueling from a fuel can. Otherwise, the fuel lines and/or injection system could be blocked by particles from the fuel can.

i Only refuel with premium-grade unleaded gasoline with a specified minimum octane number of 91 (average value of 96 RON/ 86 MON). You will usually find information about the fuel grade on the pump. If you cannot find

the label on the pump, ask the staff for assistance. You can find more information under "Fuel" (Y page 328), or by contacting an authorized Mercedes-Benz Service Center or visiting http://www.mbusa.com (USA only).

Refueling Fuel filler flap The fuel filler flap is unlocked or locked automatically when you open or close the vehicle with the SmartKey or using KEYLESS- GO. The position of the fuel filler cap is displayed in the instrument cluster 8. The arrow next to the filling pump indicates the side of the vehicle.

: To open the fuel filler flap ; To insert the fuel filler cap = Tire pressure table ? Fuel type

Opening X Switch off the engine. X Remove the SmartKey from the ignition

lock. KEYLESS-GO: open the driver’s door. This switches the ignition to position 0, which corresponds to having removed the

Refueling 139

SmartKey. The driver’s door can be closed again.

X Press the fuel filler flap in the direction of

arrow :. The fuel filler flap opens slightly.

X Open the fuel filler flap. X Turn the fuel filler cap counter-clockwise

and remove it.

X Insert the fuel filler cap into the holder bracket on the inside of filler flap ;.

X Completely insert the pump nozzle into the

filler neck and refuel.

X Only fill the tank until the pump nozzle

switches off.

! Overfilling the fuel tank could damage the

fuel system.

Closing X Replace the fuel filler cap and turn it clockwise. The fuel filler cap audibly engages.

X Close the fuel filler flap. i Close the fuel filler flap before locking the vehicle. A locking pin otherwise prevents the fuel filler flap from closing after the vehicle has been locked.

140 Parking

Problems with fuel and the fuel tank Problem Fuel is leaking from the vehicle.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions G Risk of explosion or fire The fuel line or the fuel tank is defective. X Turn the SmartKey to position 0(Y page 125) in the ignition lock

immediately and remove it.

The fuel filler flap cannot be opened.

X Do not restart the engine under any circumstances. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. The fuel filler flap is not unlocked. or The SmartKey battery is discharged. X Unlock the vehicle using the mechanical key (Y page 71). The fuel filler flap is unlocked, but the opening mechanism is jammed. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

Parking Important safety notes G WARNING Do not park this vehicle in areas where combustible materials can come into contact with the hot exhaust system. Do not park the vehicle on dry grassland or harvested grain fields. Combustible materials, such as grass, hay or leaves could be ignited by the hot exhaust system and cause a vehicle fire. Unintended vehicle movement can cause serious personal injury or damage to the vehicle or the vehicle drivetrain. To reduce such risks, always do the following before turning off the engine and leaving the vehicle: Rkeep your right foot on the brake pedal. Rengage the parking brake. Rshift the automatic transmission to park

position P.

Rslowly release the brake pedal. Rwhen parked on an incline, always turn the

front wheels towards the road curb.

Rturn the SmartKey in the ignition lock to

position 0 and remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock, or press the KEYLESS-GO Start/Stop button.

Rtake the SmartKey with you and lock the

vehicle when leaving.

Switching off the engine Important safety notes G WARNING Do not turn off the engine before the vehicle has come to a complete stop. With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle.

Vehicles with automatic transmission X Apply the parking brake firmly. X Shift the transmission to position P.

Using the SmartKey X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the

ignition lock and remove it. The immobilizer is activated.

i The SmartKey can only be removed if the

transmission is in position P.

Using KEYLESS-GO X Press the Start/Stop button (Y page 125).

The engine stops and all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster go out. i When the driver's door is closed, this

corresponds to SmartKey position 1. When the driver's door is open, it corresponds to SmartKey position 0 or "SmartKey removed".

If you attempt to switch off the engine while the selector lever is in a position other than P, a message appears in the multifunction display and you hear a tone.

Parking brake G WARNING Engaging the parking brake while the vehicle is in motion can cause the rear wheels to lock up. You could lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident. In addition, the vehicle's brake lights do not light up when the parking brake is engaged. G WARNING When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Children could release the parking brake and/or shift the automatic transmission out of park position P, either of which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Parking 141

X To apply: depress parking brake ; firmly. When the engine is running, the $ (USA only) or J (Canada only) indicator lamp lights up in the instrument cluster.

X To release: depress the brake pedal and

keep it depressed.

X Pull release handle :.

When the ignition is switched on or the engine is running, the $ (USA only) or J (Canada only) indicator lamp goes out in the instrument cluster.

Parking the vehicle for a long period If you leave the vehicle parked for longer than four weeks, the battery may be damaged by exhaustive discharge. X Connect a trickle charger. i You can obtain information about trickle

chargers from a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center.

If you leave the vehicle parked for longer than six weeks, the vehicle may suffer damage as a result of lack of use. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop and

seek advice.

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Driving tips General driving tips Important safety notes G WARNING Always remember that you must concentrate primarily on driving the vehicle. The driver's concentration must always be directed primarily at road traffic. For your own safety and that of others, we recommend that you stop the vehicle at a safe place and in accordance with the traffic conditions before making or accepting a phone call. Comply with all legal requirements if you use the telephone while driving. Use the hands- free system and only use the telephone when road, weather and traffic conditions permit. In some jurisdictions, it is forbidden for drivers to use mobile phones while driving. Only operate the audio system or COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data System) in compliance with all legal requirements and when the road, weather and traffic conditions permit. You may otherwise not be able to observe the traffic conditions, endangering yourself and others. Remember that your vehicle covers a distance of 44 feet (approximately 14 m) a second when it is traveling at only 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h).

Drive sensibly – save fuel Observe the following tips to save fuel: X The tires should always be inflated to the

recommended tire pressure. X Remove unnecessary loads. X Remove roof racks when they are not

needed.

X Warm up the engine at low engine speeds. X Avoid frequent acceleration or braking. X Have all maintenance work carried out as

indicated by the service intervals in the Service Booklet or by the service interval display.

Fuel consumption also increases when driving in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic and in mountainous terrain.

Drinking and driving G WARNING Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and driving are very dangerous combinations. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect your reflexes, perceptions and judgment. The possibility of a serious or even fatal accident are greatly increased when you drink or take drugs and drive. Do not drink or take drugs and drive or allow anyone to drive who has been drinking or taking drugs.

Pedals G WARNING Make sure absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure that the pedals still have sufficient clearance. During sudden driving or braking maneuvers, the objects could get caught between the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury.

Rolling with the engine switched off G WARNING There is no power assistance for the steering and the brake when the engine is not running. Steering and braking requires significantly more effort and you could lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident as a result. Do not turn off the engine while the vehicle is in motion.

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143

Exhaust check G WARNING Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause unconsciousness and possible death. Do not run the engine in confined areas (such as a garage) which are not properly ventilated. If you think that exhaust gas fumes are entering the vehicle while driving, have the cause determined and corrected immediately. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with at least one window fully open at all times.

Certain engine systems are designed to keep the level of poisonous components in exhaust fumes within legal limits. These systems only work at peak efficiency when they are maintained exactly in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. For this reason, all work on the engine must be carried out only by qualified and authorized Mercedes-Benz technicians. The engine settings must not be changed in any circumstances. Furthermore, all specific service work must be carried out at regular intervals and in accordance with the Mercedes-Benz service requirements. Details can be found in the Service Booklet.

Brakes Important safety notes G WARNING On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control. G WARNING Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

Downhill gradients ! On long and steep gradients, you must reduce the load on the brakes by shifting early to a lower gear. This allows you to take advantage of the engine braking effect and helps avoid overheating and excessive wear of the brakes. When you take advantage of the engine braking effect, a drive wheel may not turn for some time, e.g. on a slippery road surface. This could cause damage to the drive train. This type of damage is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz warranty.

Heavy and light loads G WARNING Depressing the brake pedal constantly results in excessive and premature wear to the brake pads. It may also cause the brakes to overheat, seriously impairing their effectiveness. It may then not be possible to stop the vehicle in sufficient time to avoid an accident.

If the brakes have been subjected to a heavy load, do not stop the vehicle immediately, but drive on for a short while. This allows the airflow to cool the brakes more quickly.

Wet roads G WARNING After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through water deep enough to wet brake components, the first braking action may be somewhat reduced. You have to depress the brake pedal more firmly. Maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.

After driving on a wet road or having the vehicle washed, brake firmly while paying attention to the traffic conditions. This will warm up the brake discs, thereby drying them more quickly and protecting them against corrosion.

144 Driving tips

Limited braking performance on salt- treated roads G WARNING The layer of salt on the brake discs and the brake pads/linings may cause a delay in the braking effect, resulting in a significantly longer braking distance, which could lead to an accident. To avoid this danger, you should: Roccasionally brake carefully, without

putting other road users at risk, when you are driving on salted roads. This helps to remove any salt that may have started to build up on the brake discs and the brake pads/linings.

Rmaintain a greater distance to the vehicle

ahead and drive with particular care.

Rcarefully apply the brakes at the end of a trip and immediately after commencing a new trip, so that salt residues are removed from the brake discs.

Servicing the brakes ! If the red brake warning lamp lights up in

the instrument cluster and you hear a warning tone while the engine is running, the brake fluid level may be too low. Observe additional warning messages in the multifunction display. The brake fluid level may be too low due to brake pad wear or leaking brake lines. Have the brake system checked immediately. This work should be carried out at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

All checks and maintenance work on the brake system must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop. This work should be carried out at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Have the brake pads replaced and the brake fluid renewed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

G WARNING If brake pads or brake fluid other than those recommended are 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.

! A function or performance test should

only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. If you are planning to have the vehicle tested on such a dynamometer, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center to obtain further information first. Otherwise, you could damage the drive train or the brake system.

! As the ESP® system operates

automatically, the engine and the ignition must be switched off (SmartKey in position 0 or 1 in the ignition lock or Start/Stop button in position 0 or 1) while the parking brake is being tested on a brake dynamometer (maximum 10 seconds). Braking maneuvers triggered automatically by ESP® may seriously damage the brake system.

! As the ESP® system operates

automatically, the engine and the ignition system must be switched off (SmartKey in position 0 or 1 in the ignition lock or Start/ Stop button in position 0 or 1) when: Rtesting the parking brake on a brake

dynamometer.

Ryou intend to have the vehicle towed with

the front axle raised.

Braking maneuvers triggered automatically by ESP® may seriously damage the brake system.

If your brake system is subject only to moderate loads, you should test the functionality of your brakes at regular intervals by pressing firmly on the brake pedal at high speeds. This improves the grip of the brake pads.

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145

G WARNING Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

You can find a description of Brake Assist (BAS) on (Y page 57) or of BAS PLUS on (Y page 58).

High-performance brake system for AMG vehicles The high-performance brake system is installed only on the C 63 AMG. G WARNING New vehicle brake pads and discs, and replacement brake pads and discs may take several hundred miles of driving until they provide optimum braking efficiency. Until that time, you may need to use increased brake pedal pressure while braking. Please be aware of this and adjust your driving and braking accordingly during this break-in period. Excessive high-demand braking will cause correspondingly high brake wear. Please be attentive to the brake warning lamp in the instrument cluster and brake condition messages in the multifunction display. Especially for high performance driving, it is important to maintain and have the brake system checked regularly.

The high-performance brake system is designed for heavy loads. This may lead to noise when braking. This will depend on: Rspeed Rbraking force Renvironmental conditions, such as

temperature and humidity

The wear of individual components of the brake system, such as the brake pads/linings or brake discs, depends on the individual driving style and operating conditions. For this reason, it is impossible to state a mileage that will be valid under all circumstances. An aggressive driving style will lead to high wear. You can obtain further

information about this from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Driving on wet roads Hydroplaning If water has accumulated to a certain depth on the road surface, there is a danger of hydroplaning occurring, even if: Ryou drive at low speeds. Rthe tires have adequate tread depth. For this reason, in the event of heavy rain or in conditions in which hydroplaning can occur you must drive in the following manner: Rreduce your speed Ravoid ruts Rbrake carefully

Driving on flooded roads ! Do not drive through flooded areas.

Check the depth of any water before driving through it. Drive slowly through standing water. Otherwise, water may enter the vehicle interior or the engine compartment. This can damage the electronic components in the engine or the automatic transmission. Water can also be drawn in by the engine's air suction nozzles and this can cause engine damage.

Winter driving General notes G WARNING If the vehicle becomes trapped in snow, ensure that snow is kept away from the exhaust pipe and from around the vehicle as long as the engine is running. Otherwise, poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) may enter the vehicle, resulting in loss of consciousness and even death.

146 Driving systems

To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, open a window slightly on the side of the vehicle not facing the wind.

At the onset of winter, have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center. Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 296).

Driving with summer tires Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 296).

Slippery road surfaces G WARNING The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. Indicated temperatures just above the freezing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice. The road may still be icy, especially in wooded areas or on bridges. G WARNING On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control.

Drive particularly carefully on slippery road surfaces. Avoid sudden acceleration, steering and braking maneuvers. Do not use cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS. If the vehicle threatens to skid or cannot be stopped when moving at low speed: X Shift the transmission to position N. i For more information on driving with

snow chains, see (Y page 297). G WARNING Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

Driving systems Cruise control Important safety notes Cruise control maintains a constant road speed for you. It brakes automatically in order to avoid exceeding the set speed. On long and steep downhill gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden, you must select shift range 1, 2 or 3 in good time. By doing so, you will make use of the braking effect of the engine, which relieves the load on the brake system and prevents the brakes from overheating and wearing too quickly. Use cruise control only if road and traffic conditions make it appropriate to maintain a steady speed for a prolonged period. You can set any road speed above 20 mph (30 km/h). G WARNING The cruise control is a convenience system designed to assist the driver during vehicle operation. The driver is and must always remain responsible for the vehicle's speed and for safe brake operation. Only use the cruise control if the road, traffic, and weather conditions make it advisable to travel at a constant speed. RThe use of the cruise control can be

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

RThe use of the cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. Rapid changes in tire traction can result in wheel spin and loss of control.

RDeactivate the cruise control when driving

in fog.

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

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147

G WARNING The cruise control brakes automatically so that the set speed is not exceeded.

Cruise control lever

: To switch on or to increase the speed ; To switch on or to reduce the speed = To deactivate cruise control ? To switch on with the current speed or

with the last stored speed

When you activate cruise control, the stored speed is shown in the multifunction display for five seconds. In the multifunction display, the segments between the stored speed and the maximum speed light up.

Storing and maintaining the current speed You can store the current speed if you are driving faster than 20 mph (30 km/h). X Accelerate the vehicle to the desired

speed.

X Briefly press the cruise control lever

up : or down ;.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal. Cruise control is activated. The vehicle automatically maintains the stored speed. i Cruise control may be unable to maintain the stored speed on uphill gradients. The stored speed is resumed when the gradient evens out. Cruise control maintains the

stored speed on downhill gradients by automatically applying the brakes.

Storing the current speed or calling up the last stored speed G WARNING The set speed stored in memory should only be set again if prevailing road conditions and legal speed limits permit. Possible acceleration or deceleration differences arising from returning to the preset speed could cause an accident and/or serious injury to you and others.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ?.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal. The first time cruise control is activated, it stores the current speed or regulates the speed of the vehicle to the previously stored speed.

Setting a speed G WARNING Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has made the necessary adjustments. Increase or decrease the set vehicle speed to a value that the prevailing road conditions and legal speed limits permit. Otherwise, sudden and unexpected acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle could cause an accident and/ or serious injury to you and others.

X Press the cruise control lever up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed. X Keep the cruise control lever pressed until

the desired speed is reached.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The new speed is stored.

i Cruise control is not deactivated if you

depress the accelerator pedal. For example, if you accelerate briefly to

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overtake, cruise control adjusts the vehicle's speed to the last speed stored after you have finished overtaking.

Making adjustments in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments X Briefly press the cruise control lever to the pressure point, up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed. The last speed stored is increased or reduced.

Making adjustments in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments X Briefly press the cruise control lever

beyond the pressure point, up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed. The last speed stored is increased or reduced.

Deactivating cruise control There are several ways to deactivate cruise control: X Briefly press the cruise control lever

forwards =.

or X Brake. Cruise control is automatically deactivated if: Ryou depress the parking brake. Ryou are driving below 20 mph (30 km/h). RESP® intervenes or you deactivate ESP®. Ryou shift the transmission to position N

while driving. If cruise control is deactivated, you will hear a warning tone. You will see the Cruise Control Off message in the multifunction display for approximately five seconds. i The last speed stored is cleared when you

switch off the engine.

DISTRONIC PLUS Important safety notes DISTRONIC PLUS regulates the speed and automatically helps you maintain the distance to the vehicle detected in front. It brakes automatically in order to avoid exceeding the set speed. On long and steep downhill gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden, you must select shift range 1, 2 or 3 in good time. By doing so, you will make use of the braking effect of the engine, which relieves the load on the brake system and prevents the brakes from overheating and wearing too quickly. If a slower-moving vehicle is detected in front, DISTRONIC PLUS causes your vehicle to brake and maintain the preset distance to the vehicle in front. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS requires familiarity with its operational characteristics. We strongly recommend that you review the following information carefully before operating the system. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS is a convenience system. Its speed adjustment reduction capability is intended to make cruise control more effective and usable when traffic speeds vary. It is not however, intended to, nor does it, replace the need for extreme care. The responsibility for the vehicle's speed, distance to the preceding vehicle and, most importantly, brake operation to ensure a safe stopping distance, always remains with the driver. The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take street and traffic conditions into account. Complex driving situations are not always fully recognized by the DISTRONIC PLUS. This could result in wrong or missing distance warnings.

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If you want DISTRONIC PLUS to assist you, the radar sensor system must be activated (Y page 196) and operational. If there is no vehicle driving in front of you, DISTRONIC PLUS functions like cruise control at a speed range between 20 mph (Canada: 30 km/h) and 120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). If a vehicle is driving in front of you, it functions at a speed range between 0 mph (0 km/h) and 120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). Do not use DISTRONIC PLUS while driving on roads with steep gradients. As DISTRONIC PLUS transmits radar waves, it can resemble the radar detectors of the responsible authorities. You can refer to the applicable section in the Operator's Manual if there are any questions concerning this. i USA only:

This device has been approved by the FCC as a “Vehicular Radar System”. The radar sensor is intended for use in an automotive radar system only. Removal, tampering, or altering of the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted by the FCC. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

i Canada only: This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference, and 2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Removal, tampering, or altering of the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control is not a substitute for active driving involvement. It does not react to pedestrians or on stationary objects, nor does it recognize or predict the curvature and lane layout or the movement of preceding vehicles. The DISTRONIC PLUS can only apply a maximum of 40% of the vehicle's braking power. The DISTRONIC PLUS may not detect narrow vehicles possibly driving in front of you, such as motorcycles and vehicles driving in an offset formation. It is the driver's responsibility at all times to be attentive to the road, weather and traffic conditions. Additionally, the driver must provide the steering, braking and other driving inputs necessary to remain in control of the vehicle. High-frequency sources such as toll stations, speed measuring systems etc. can cause the DISTRONIC PLUS system to temporarily cease functioning. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take road and traffic conditions into account. Only use the DISTRONIC PLUS if the road, weather and traffic conditions make it advisable to travel at a constant speed. G WARNING Use of the DISTRONIC PLUS can be dangerous on slippery roads. Rapid changes in tire traction can result in wheel spin and loss of control. The DISTRONIC PLUS does not function in adverse sight and distance conditions. Do not use the DISTRONIC PLUS during conditions of fog, heavy rain, snow or sleet.

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G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take weather conditions into account. Switch off the DISTRONIC PLUS or do not switch it on if: Rroads are slippery or covered with snow or

ice. The wheels could lose traction while braking or accelerating, and the vehicle could skid.

Rthe DISTRONIC PLUS system sensor covers

are dirty or visibility is diminished due to snow, rain or fog, for example. The distance control system functionality could be impaired.

Always pay attention to surrounding traffic conditions even while the DISTRONIC PLUS is switched on. Otherwise, you may not be able to recognize dangerous situations until it is too late. This could cause an accident in which you and/or others could be injured. G WARNING The "Resume" function should only be operated if the driver is fully aware of the previously set speed and wishes to resume this particular preset speed. G WARNING Your undivided attention to street and traffic conditions is necessary at all times whether DISTRONIC PLUS is active or not. The use of DISTRONIC PLUS can be dangerous on winding roads or in heavy traffic because conditions do not allow safe driving at a constant speed. DISTRONIC PLUS does not react to stationary objects on the road (for example, a vehicle stopped in traffic or an abandoned vehicle). DISTRONIC PLUS likewise does not react to oncoming vehicles.

Deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS: Rwhen changing to the right lane, if the

vehicles in the left lane are driving slower

Rwhen driving into a filter lane or an

expressway exit

Rin complex driving situations, for example

in construction sites on an expressway In these situations DISTRONIC PLUS will maintain the set speed if it is not deactivated. DISTRONIC PLUS is intended only for maintaining a set speed and a set distance from the objects moving in front of the vehicle. G WARNING An intermittent warning sounds and the distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster is illuminated if the DISTRONIC PLUS system calculates that the distance to the vehicle ahead and your vehicle's current speed indicate that the DISTRONIC PLUS will not be capable of slowing the vehicle sufficiently to maintain the preset following distance, which creates a danger of a collision. Immediately brake the vehicle to increase your distance to the preceding vehicle. The warning sound is intended as a final caution in which you should intercede with your own braking inputs to avoid a potentially dangerous situation. Do not wait for the operation of the warning signal to intercede with your own braking. This will result in potentially dangerous emergency braking which will not always result in an impact being avoided. Tailgating increases the risk of an accident. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS brakes your vehicle with a maximum deceleration of 13 ft/s2(4 m/s2). This is equivalent to approximately 40 % of your vehicle's maximum possible deceleration.

You need to brake yourself to prevent a collision. DISTRONIC PLUS brakes the vehicle to restore the set distance from the vehicle ahead or the set speed. G WARNING If you do not receive visual or acoustic warning signals during a critical traffic situation, DISTRONIC PLUS has either not recognized the collision risk, has been deactivated or is malfunctioning. Remember, whether or not DISTRONIC PLUS is operating, it is ultimately always the drivers responsibility to apply the brakes in order to control the vehicle and avoid a collision.

Cruise control lever

: To store the current speed or a higher

speed

; To store the current speed or a lower

speed

= To deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS ? To store the current speed or to call up

the last stored speed

A To set the specified minimum distance

Switching on DISTRONIC PLUS, storing the current speed and maintaining it Important safety notes G WARNING The vehicle can be braked when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated. For this reason, deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS if the vehicle is to be set in

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motion by other means (e.g. in a car wash or by towing).

In order to activate DISTRONIC PLUS, the following conditions must be fulfilled: Rthe engine must be started. It may take up

to two minutes after pulling away before DISTRONIC PLUS is operational.

Rthe parking brake must not be applied. RESP® must be activated but not

intervening.

Rthe transmission must be in position D. Rthe hood must be closed. Rthe driver's door must be closed when you shift from P to D or your seat belt must be fastened.

Rthe front-passenger door must be closed. Rthe vehicle must not skid. Activating while driving When driving at speeds below 20 mph (30 km/h), you can only activate DISTRONIC PLUS if the vehicle in front has been detected and is shown in the multifunction display. If the vehicle in front is no longer detected and shown, DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated and a warning tone sounds. X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards you ?, or briefly press up : or down ;. DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.

X Keep the cruise control lever pressed

up : or down ; until the desired speed is set.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal. Your vehicle adapts its speed to that of the vehicle in front, but only up to the desired stored speed. i If you do not fully release the accelerator pedal, the DISTRONIC PLUS Override message is shown in the multifunction display. The set distance to a slower- moving vehicle in front will then not be maintained. You will be driving at the speed

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you determine by the position of the accelerator pedal.

Activating when driving towards a stationary vehicle If the vehicle in front of you is stationary, you can only activate DISTRONIC PLUS once your vehicle is stationary as well. X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards you ?, or briefly press up : or down ;. DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.

i DISTRONIC PLUS can only be activated at under 20 mph (30 km/h) if a vehicle in front has been detected. Therefore, the DISTRONIC PLUS distance display in the instrument cluster should be activated (Y page 192).

X Keep the cruise control lever pressed

up : or down ; until the desired speed is set.

i You can use the cruise control lever to set

the stored speed and the control on the cruise control lever to set the specified minimum distance (Y page 155).

Pulling away X If the vehicle in front pulls away: remove

your foot from the brake pedal.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ?.

or X Accelerate briefly.

Your vehicle pulls away and adapts its speed to that of the vehicle in front.

Driving If there is no vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS operates in the same way as cruise control. If a slower-moving vehicle is detected in front, DISTRONIC causes your vehicle to brake. This maintains the preset distance to the vehicle in front. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a faster-moving vehicle in front, it increases the driving speed

of your vehicle, but only up to the desired speed you have stored. G WARNING If you depress the brake, DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated unless your vehicle is stationary. DISTRONIC PLUS then no longer brakes your vehicle. In such cases, control the distance from vehicles travelling in front with the brake alone. You could otherwise cause an accident and thereby injure yourself and others. The driver remains fully responsible for the vehicle's distance from other vehicles, the speed being driven and for braking in good time.

Changing lanes If you wish to change to the passing lane (in left-hand-drive vehicles, the passing lane is the left-hand lane), DISTRONIC PLUS supports you if: Ryou are driving faster than 40 mph

(60 km/h).

RDISTRONIC PLUS is maintaining the

distance to a vehicle in front.

Ryou switch on the appropriate turn signals. RDISTRONIC PLUS does not detect a danger

of collision.

If these conditions are met, your vehicle is accelerated. Acceleration will be interrupted if changing lanes takes too long or if the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front becomes too small. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS and Active Blind Spot Assist are only aids designed to assist driving. They do not relieve you of the responsibility of paying attention. The driver remains fully responsible for the vehicle's distance from other vehicles, the vehicle's speed and for braking in good time. Always pay attention to traffic conditions and your surroundings. Otherwise, you may fail to recognize dangers in time, cause an accident and injure yourself and others.

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Vehicles with COMAND i The following function is not operational

in all countries.

DISTRONIC PLUS uses additional information from your navigation system so that it can react appropriately to certain traffic situations. This is the case if, while following a vehicle, DISTRONIC PLUS is active and you: Rapproach or drive through a traffic circle Rapproach a T intersection Rturn off at a freeway exit Even if the vehicle in front leaves the detection range, DISTRONIC PLUS temporarily maintains the current driving speed and does not accelerate. This is based on the current map data in the navigation system.

Example: traffic circle The current speed is maintained: Rapproximately 10 seconds before the

traffic circle/T intersection and for approximately 1.5 seconds when driving on the traffic circle

Rapproximately 12 seconds before reaching

a freeway exit and approximately 4 seconds after the freeway exit

Afterwards, the vehicle accelerates back to the set speed you specified. Stopping G WARNING Never get out of the vehicle when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated.

DISTRONIC PLUS must also never be operated, activated or deactivated by a passenger or from outside the vehicle. DISTRONIC PLUS does not replace the parking brake and must not be used for parking. The DISTRONIC PLUS braking effect is canceled and the vehicle can start moving if: RDISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated using the

cruise control lever.

Ryou accelerate. Rthere is a malfunction in the system or an

interruption in the power supply, e.g. battery failure.

Rthe electrical system in the engine

compartment, the battery or the fuses are tampered with.

Rthe battery is disconnected. If you wish to leave the vehicle or park it, deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS and secure the vehicle against rolling away.

If DISTRONIC PLUS detects that the vehicle in front is stopping, it brakes your vehicle until it is stationary. Once your vehicle is stationary, it remains stationary and you do not need to depress the brake. i Depending on the specified minimum

distance, your vehicle will come to a standstill at a sufficient distance behind the vehicle in front. The specified minimum distance is set using the control on the cruise control lever.

You will see a warning message in the multifunction display if DISTRONIC PLUS is