2004 Mercedes-benz C Class Owners Manual

2 Low beam headlamps on 왘 Turn switch to B. For more information on headlamps, see “Lighting” (컄 page 102).

Getting started Driving

Windshield wipers

The combination switch is located on the left of the steering column.

Turn signals and high beam

The combination switch is on the left of the steering column.

To signal minor directional changes, move combination switch to point of resistance only and release. The turn signal flashes three times.

High beam 왘 Push combination switch forward. The high beam symbol A in the instrument cluster comes on.

For more information on high beam, see “Combination switch” (컄 page 105).

Combination switch 1 Turn signals, right 2 Turn signals, left 왘 Press combination switch up 1 or

down 2.

Combination switch 1 Single wipe 2 Switching on windshield wipers 왘 Make sure the ignition is switched on.

47

! Vehicles with rain sensor*: Do not leave windshield wipers in inter- mittent setting when the vehicle is tak- en to an automatic car wash or during windshield cleaning. Wipers will oper- ate in the presence of water sprayed on the windshield, and wipers may be damaged as a result. The switch should not be left in inter- mittent setting as the wipers will wipe the windshield once every time the en- gine is started. Dust that accumulates on the windshield might scratch the glass and/or damage the wiper blades when wiping occurs on a dry wind- shield.

Single wipe 왘 Press combination switch briefly in

direction of arrow 1. The windshield wipers wipe one time without washer fluid.

Wiping with windshield washer fluid 왘 Push combination switch in direction of

arrow 1 past the resistance point. The windshield wipers operate with washer fluid.

For information on filling up the washer reservoir, see “Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system*” (컄 page 259).

Getting started Driving

Switching on windshield wipers 왘 Turn the combination switch to the desired position depending on the intensity of the rain. 0 Windshield wipers off Intermittent wiping II Normal wiper speed III Fast wiper speed

Vehicles without rain sensor*: Fast wiper speed III goes to setting II when the vehicle is standing still. Vehicles with rain sensor*: Intermittent wiping interval is depen- dent on wetness of windshield. Wiping will not occur with a front door open.

48

! If anything blocks the windshield wipers (leaves, snow, etc.), switch them off immediately. 앫 For safety reasons, withdraw SmartKey from starter switch before attempting to remove any blockage.

앫 Remove blockage. 앫 Turn the windshield wipers on

again.

If windshield wipers fail to function at all in switch position I, 앫 set the combination switch to the

next highest wiper speed

앫 have the windshield wipers

checked at the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center

Problems while driving

The engine runs erratically and misfires 앫 An ignition cable may be damaged. 앫 The engine electronics may not be op-

erating properly.

앫 Unburned gasoline may have entered the catalytic converter and damaged it.

왘 Give very little gas. 왘 Have the problem repaired by an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

The coolant temperature is over 248°F (120°C) The coolant is too hot and is no longer cooling the engine. 왘 Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and turn off the engine. Allow engine and coolant to cool.

왘 Check the coolant level and add cool-

ant if necessary (컄 page 257).

Getting started Driving

In case of accident If the vehicle is leaking gasoline: 왘 Do not start the engine under any cir-

cumstances.

왘 Notify local fire and/or police authori-

ties.

If the extent of the damage cannot be de- termined: 왘 Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center.

If no damage can be determined on the 앫 major assemblies 앫 fuel system 앫 engine mount: 왘 Start the engine in the usual manner.

49

Getting started Parking and locking 왔 Parking and locking You have now completed your first drive. You have properly stopped and parked your vehicle. End your drive as follows.

Warning!

Wait until the vehicle is stationary before removing the SmartKey from the starter switch. The vehicle cannot be steered when the SmartKey is removed.

Warning!

With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering system. 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.

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Warning!

Parking brake

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

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

position P (manual transmission: first or reverse gear).

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

wheels towards the road curb.

앫 Turn the SmartKey to starter switch

position 0 and remove.

앫 Take the SmartKey and lock vehicle

when leaving.

1 Release handle 2 Parking brake 왘 Step firmly on parking brake 2. When the engine is running, the warning lamp ; (USA only) or 3 (Canada only) in the instrument cluster will be illuminated.

Warning!

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattend- ed in the vehicle, or with access to an un- locked vehicle. Children could release the parking brake and/or move the gear selec- tor lever from position P, either of which could result in an accident and/or serious injury.

Getting out of your vehicle with the gear se- lector lever not fully engaged in position P is dangerous. Also, when parked on an incline, position P alone may not prevent your vehi- cle from moving, possibly hitting people or objects.

Always set the parking brake in addition to shifting to position P (manual transmission: first or reverse gear).

When parked on an incline, turn front wheel towards the road curb.

Getting started Parking and locking

Switching off headlamps

왘 Turn the exterior lamp switch

to M (컄 page 46).

For more information on headlamps, see “Lighting” (컄 page 102).

51

Getting started Parking and locking

Turning off engine

왘 Place the gear selector lever in

position P (manual transmission: first or reverse gear).

Always set the parking brake in addi- tion to shifting to position P (manual transmission: first or reverse gear). On steep slopes, turn the front wheels towards the road curb.

왘 Press the seat belt release button

(컄 page 41). Allow the retractor to completely rewind the seat belt by guiding the latch plate.

With the SmartKey removed and the driver’s door open, a warning sounds if the vehicle’s exterior lamps are not switched off.

왘 Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch

Warning!

to position 0 and remove it. The immobilizer is activated.

Vehicles with automatic transmission: The SmartKey can only be removed from the starter switch with the gear selector lever in position P.

To prevent possible personal injury, always keep hands and fingers away from the door openings when closing the doors. Be espe- cially careful when small children are around.

Before closing doors, make sure there is no possibility of someone getting caught in a door during closing.

왘 After exiting the vehicle, press the lock

button ‹ on the SmartKey (컄 page 30). All turn signal lamps flash three times. The locking knobs in the doors move down.

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, and lock your vehicle. Do not leave children unat- tended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehi- cle equipment may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.

For more information, see “Locking and unlocking” (컄 page 82).

52

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Panic alarm*

Driving safety systems

Anti-theft systems

53

The 1 indicator lamp in the instrument cluster (컄 page 22) comes on: 앫 for about four seconds when you turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 1.

앫 for about four seconds when you start

the engine by turning the SmartKey.

The 1 indicator lamp remains lit if the SmartKey is turned to position 2 and left there. The indicator lamp will go out when you start the engine.

The 1 indicator lamp goes out shortly after you start the engine. This shows that the restraint systems are operational. A malfunction in the system has been detected if the 1 indicator lamp: 앫 fails to extinguish after approximately

four seconds.

앫 does not come on at all. 앫 comes on after the engine was started

or while driving.

For safety reasons, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the system checked. For more information, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 278).

Safety and Security Occupant safety 왔 Occupant safety In this section you will learn the most im- portant facts about the restraint systems of the vehicle. The restraint systems are 앫 Seat belts 앫 Emergency tensioning device 앫 Airbags 앫 Child seats 앫 Child seat recognition 앫 Lower anchors and tethers for children

(LATCH)

As independent systems, their protective effects work in conjunction with each other.

For information on infants and children traveling with you in the vehicle and restraint systems for infants and children, see “Children in the vehicle” (컄 page 63).

54

Warning!

Airbags

In the event that the SRS malfunction indica- tor lamp comes on during driving or does not come on at all, the SRS may not be op- erational. For your safety, we strongly rec- ommend 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 also result in injury.

Improper work on the restraint systems, including incorrect installation and removal, can lead to possible injury through an unin- tended activation of the SRS.

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

Warning!

Airbags are designed to reduce the potential of injury and fatality in certain frontal impacts (front airbags), or side impacts (side impact airbags and head protection window curtain airbags). However, no system avail- able today can totally eliminate injuries and fatalities.

The activation of the SRS temporarily releas- es a small amount of dust from the airbags. This dust, however, is neither injurious to your health, nor does it indicate a fire in the vehicle. The dust might cause some tempo- rary breathing difficulty for people with asth- ma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, you may wish to get out of the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have any breathing difficulty but cannot get out of the vehicle after the airbag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Warning!

To reduce the risk of injury when the front airbags inflate, it is very important for the driver and front passenger to always be in a properly seated position and to wear your seat belts.

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

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

with your back against the seat back- rest.

컄컄

55

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

If you sell your vehicle you are responsible to make the buyer aware of these points. Make sure to give the buyer this Operator’s Manual.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

컄컄

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

앫 Do not lean with your head or chest close to the steering wheel or dash- board.

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

56

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

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

앫 Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM1 compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deacti- vate the passenger front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fa- tal injury will result.

1 BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens

Automotive Corp.

Warning!

To help avoid the possibility of injury, please follow these guidelines:

Accident research shows that the safest place for children in an automobile is in the rear seat. Should you choose to place a child 12 years old or under in the front passenger seat of your vehicle, you must properly use a BabySmartTM1 child restraint which will turn off the passenger front airbag. BabySmartTM will not, however, turn off any side impact airbag.

It should be noted that with respect to both front and rear side impact airbags there is a possibility for a side airbag related injury if occupants, especially children, are not prop- erly seated or restrained when next to a side airbag which needs to deploy rapidly in a side impact in order to do its job.

1 BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens

Automotive Corp.

(1) Occupants, especially children, should

never place their bodies or lean their heads in the area of the door where the side airbag inflates. This could result in serious injuries or death should the side airbag be activated.

(2) Always sit upright, properly use the seat belts and use an appropriately sized in- fant or child restraint system for all chil- dren 12 years old or under.

(3) Always wear seat belts properly.

If you believe that, even with the use of these guidelines, it would be safer for your rear seat occupants to have both rear door mounted side airbags deactivated, then deactivation can be accomplished upon your written request to do so at your autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center at an additional cost.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Please contact your local authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call our Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) for details.

Airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal impacts (front airbags) and in side impacts (side impact and head protection window curtain air- bags) which exceed preset thresholds. Only during these types of impacts, if of sufficient severity to meet the deploy- ment tresholds, will they provide their supplemental protection. The driver and passengers should always wear their seat belts. Otherwise it is not possible for airbags to provide their supplemental protection.

57

Safety and Security Occupant safety

In cases of other frontal impacts, angled impacts, roll-overs, other side impacts, rear collisions, or other acci- dents, the airbags will not be activated. The driver and passengers will then be protected by the fastened seat belts. We caution you not to rely on the presence of the airbags in order to avoid wearing your seat belt. Your vehicle was originally equipped with airbags that are designed to acti- vate in certain impacts exceeding a preset threshold to reduce the poten- tial and severity of injury. It is important to your safety and that of your passen- gers that you replace deployed airbags and repair any malfunctioning airbags to ensure that the vehicle will continue to provide supplemental crash protec- tion for occupants.

58

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

Warning!

앫 Damaged seat belts or belts that were highly stressed in an accident must be replaced and their anchoring points must also be checked. Only use belts in- stalled or supplied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

앫 Airbags and emergency tensioning

devices (ETDs) are designed to function on a one-time only basis. An airbag or ETD that was activated must be replaced

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

앫 Do not pass belts over sharp edges.

They could tear.

앫 Do not make any modification that could

change the effectiveness of the belts.

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

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

앫 Improper work on the system, including incorrect installation and removal, can lead to possible injury through an unin- tended activation of the SRS.

앫 In addition, through improper work

there is a risk of rendering the SRS inop- erative or causing unintended airbag de- ployment. Work on the SRS must therefore only be performed by qualified technicians. Contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

앫 For your protection and the protection

of others, when scrapping the airbag unit or emergency tensioning device, our safety instructions must be fol- lowed. These instructions are available from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

앫 Given the considerable deployment

speed and the textile structure of the airbags, there is the possibility of abra- sions or other injuries resulting from air- bag deployment.

When you sell your vehicle we strongly urge you to give notice to the subsequent owner that it is equipped with an SRS by alerting them to the applicable section in the Operator’s Manual.

Front airbags

1 Driver’s airbag 2 Passenger front airbag

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Driver and passenger airbags are deployed: 앫 in the event of a frontal impact 앫 if impact exceeds a preset deployment

threshold

앫 independently of the side impact

airbags

The airbags will not deploy in impacts which do not exceed the system’s deployment thresholds. You will then be protected by the fastened seat belts. The passenger front airbag will only be deployed if: 앫 the front passenger seat is occupied 앫 the PASS. AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp

in the center console is not lit (컄 page 66)

앫 the impact exceeds a preset

deployment treshold

59

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Do not place objects heavier than 20 lbs (9 kg) on the front passenger seat. This could cause the front or side impact airbag on the front passenger side to deploy in a crash which exceeds the system's deployment threshold.

Side impact airbags, window curtain airbags The window curtain airbags 1 fill up the area between the A and C pillars (see arrows).

1 Window curtain airbag 2 Side impact airbags

60

The side impact airbags and window curtain airbags are deployed: 앫 on the impacted side of the vehicle 앫 in impacts exceeding a preset

deployment threshold

앫 independently of the front airbags The front passenger side impact airbag will only deploy if the system senses that the front passenger seat is occupied. The side impact airbags and window curtain airbags are not deployed in impacts which do not exceed the system’s deployment threshold.

Seat belts

When the engine is started, the seat belt non-usage warning lamp < illuminates to remind you and your passengers to fasten your seat belts. If the driver’s seat belt is not fastened before the engine is started, the seat belt non-usage warning

lamp < illuminates and a warning chime sounds for approximately six seconds when the engine is started. The use of seat belts and infant and child restraint systems is required by law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces. Even where this is not the case, all vehicle occupants should have their seat belts fastened whenever the vehicle is in motion. For more information on seat belts, see “Fastening the seat belt” (컄 page 40).

For information on infants and children traveling with you in the vehicle and restraint systems for infants and children, see “Children in the vehicle” (컄 page 63).

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Warning!

Warning!

Warning!

Always fasten your seat belt before driving off. Always make sure your passengers are properly restrained, even those sitting in the rear and pregnant women.

Failure to wear and properly fasten and po- sition your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident. You and your passengers should always wear seat belts.

If you are ever in an accident, your injuries can be considerably more severe without your seat belt properly buckled. Without your seat belt buckled, you are much more likely to hit the interior of the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed.

In the same crash, the possibility of injury or death is lessened if you are properly wearing your seat belt. Airbags can only protect as they are designed if the occupants are prop- erly wearing their seat belts.

Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat backrest reclined. Sitting in an excessively reclined position can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The seat backrest and seat belt provide the best re- straint when the wearer is in an upright po- sition and the belt is properly positioned on the body.

Warning!

Never let more people ride in the vehicle than there are seat belts available. Be sure everyone riding in the vehicle is correctly restrained with a separate seat belt.

Damaged seat belts or belts that were highly stressed in an accident must be replaced and their anchoring points must also be checked.

Only use seat belts which have been approved by Mercedes-Benz.

Do not make any modifications to the seat belts. This can lead to unintended activation or to failure.

Have all work carried out only by qualified technicians. Contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

61

앫 Never wear the shoulder belt under your arm, against your neck or off your shoul- der. In a crash, your body would move too far forward. That would increase the chance of head and neck injuries. The belt would also apply too much force to the ribs or abdomen, which could se- verely injure internal organs such as your liver or spleen.

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

앫 Position the lap belt as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdo- men. If the belt is positioned across your abdomen, it could cause serious injuries in a crash.

앫 Never use a seat belt for more than one person at a time. Do not fasten a seat belt around a person and another per- son or other objects.

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

앫 Pregnant women should also use a

lap-shoulder belt. The lap belt portion should be positioned as low as possible on the hips to avoid any possible pres- sure on the abdomen.

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

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Warning!

USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY 앫 Seat belts can only work when used

properly. Never wear seat belts in any other way than as described in this sec- tion, as that could result in serious inju- ries in case of an accident.

앫 Each occupant should wear their seat

belt at all times, because seat belts help reduce the likelihood of and potential severity of injuries in accidents, includ- ing rollovers. The integrated restraint system includes SRS (driver airbag, pas- senger front airbag, side impact airbags, head protection window curtain airbags for side windows), ETD (seat belt emer- gency tensioning device), and front seat knee bolsters. The system is designed to enhance the protection offered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal (front airbags) and side (side im- pact airbags and window curtain air- bags) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds.

62

Emergency tensioning device (ETD), seat belt force limiter The seat belts for the front and rear outer seats are equipped with emergency tensioning devices and belt force limiters. The ETD is designed to activate in the following cases when the seat belts are fastened: 앫 in frontal or rear-end impacts

exceeding a preset severity level.

앫 if the restraint systems are operational

and functioning correctly. See 1 indicator lamp (컄 page 54).

In an impact, emergency tensioning devices remove slack from the belts in such a way that the seat belts fit more snugly against the body. Belt force limiters reduce the force exerted by the seat belts on occupants during a crash.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Warning!

Children in the vehicle

An emergency tensioning device (ETD) that was activated must be replaced.

When scrapping the emergency tensioning device, our safety instructions must be followed. These are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Do not place objects heavier than 20 lbs (9 kg) on the front passenger seat. This could cause the front or side impact airbag on the front passenger side to deploy in a crash which exceeds the system's deployment threshold.

If an infant or child is traveling with you in the vehicle: 앫 Secure the child using an infant or child

restraint appropriate to the age and size of the child and recommended for use by Mercedes-Benz.

앫 Ensure that the infant or child is prop- erly secured by a belt at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

Infant and child restraint seats and infor- mation on choosing an appropriate re- straint system can be obtained from any Mercedes-Benz Center.

Infant and child restraint systems Only use a BabySmartTM1 compatible child restraint for the front passenger seat in this vehicle.

1 BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens

Automotive Corp.

63

i For information on child seats with anchor fittings for tether anchorages, see “Installation of infant and child re- straint systems” (컄 page 68). For information on child seat anchors - LATCH-type (컄 page 69).

Warning!

Never release the seat belt buckle while the vehicle is in motion, since the special seat belt retractor will be deactivated.

The use of infant or child restraints is required by law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territo- ries, and all Canadian provinces. Infants and small children should be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system properly secured by a lap-shoulder belt or, if so equipped, a child restraint lower anchorage system that complies with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213 and 225 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213 and 210.2.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

We recommend all infants and children be properly restrained at all times while the vehicle is in motion. All lap-shoulder belts except the driver‘s seat belt have special seat belt retractors for secure fastening of child restraints. To fasten a child restraint, follow child re- straint instructions for mounting. Then pull the shoulder belt out completely and let it retract. During the seat belt retraction, a ratcheting sound can be heard to indicate that the special seat belt retractor is acti- vated. The belt is now locked. Push down on child restraint to take up any slack. To deactivate, release seat belt buckle and let seat belt retract completely. The seat belt can again be used in the usual man- ner.

64

A statement by the child restraint man- ufacturer of compliance with this stan- dard can be found on the instruction label on the restraint and in the instruction manual provided with the restraint. When using any infant or child restraint system, be sure to carefully read and follow all manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use. Please read and observe warning labels affixed to inside of vehicle and to infant or child restraints.

Warning!

Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM1 compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the ve- hicle to deactivate the passenger front air- bag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it in- flates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result.

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

1 BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens

Automotive Corp.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Infants and small children should never share a seat belt with another occupant. During an accident, they could be crushed between the occupant and seat belt.

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

Children too big for child restraint systems must ride in back seats using regular seat belts. Position shoulder belt across chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper belt positioning for children from 41 lbs until they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without a booster.

컄컄

65

Safety and Security Occupant safety

컄컄

When the child restraint is not in use, re- move it from the vehicle or secure it with the seat belt to prevent the child restraint from becoming a projectile in the event of an ac- cident.

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

66

BabySmartTM1 airbag deactivation system

Special BabySmartTM compatible child seats, designed for use with the Mercedes-Benz system and available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center are required for use with the BabySmartTM air- bag deactivation system. With the special child seat properly installed, the passenger front airbag will not deploy.

1 BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens

Automotive Corp.

The PASS. AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp located in the center console will be illumi- nated, except with the SmartKey removed or in starter switch position 0.

The system does not deactivate the side impact airbag and the emergency tensioning device.

Self-test BabySmartTM without special child seat installed After turning the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 1 or 2, the PASS. AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp located in the center console comes on for approximately six seconds and then goes out. If the indicator lamp should not come on or is continuously lit, the system is not func- tioning. You must see an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center before seating any child on the passenger seat. For more information, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 279).

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Warning!

Warning!

Warning!

The BabySmartTM1 airbag deactivation sys- tem will ONLY work with a special child seat designed to operate with it. It will not work with child seats which are not BabySmartTM compatible.

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

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

1 BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens

Automotive Corp.

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

Please be sure to check the indicator every time you use the special system child seat. Should the light go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. If the light remains out, do not use the BabySmartTM restraint to transport children on the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Do not place powered-on laptops, cell phones and like electronic devices on the front passenger seat. Signals from such de- vices may interfere with the BabySmartTM system. Such signal interference may cause the PASS. AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp not to come on during self-test or be continuously lit, indicating that the system is not function- ing.

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Safety and Security Occupant safety

Installation of infant and child restraint systems This vehicle is equipped with tether an- chorages for a top tether strap at each of the rear seating positions.

1 Cover of top anchorage ring 왘 Make sure the rear backrest is locked

in its upright position (컄 page 213).

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Warning!

Always lock backrest in its upright position when rear seat bench is occupied by pas- sengers, or the extended cargo area is not in use. Check for secure locking by pushing and pulling on the backrest.

왘 Remove cover 1 from anchorage

ring 3.

왘 Guide tether strap between head

restraint and top of seat back. Head restraint must be installed (if removable) and positioned such that the top tether strap can pass freely between the head restraint and top of seat back. Make sure the tether strap is not twisted.

2 Hook 3 Anchorage ring 왘 Securely fasten hook 2, which is part

of the tether strap, to anchorage ring 3.

For safety, make sure the hook has attached to the ring beyond the safety catch, as illustrated.

왘 Reinstall cover 1 after removing the

tether strap.

Child seat anchors – LATCH-type This vehicle is equipped with two LATCH- (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) type anchors (at each of the outer rear seats) for the installation of a LATCH-type child seat with the matching mounting fittings. If a child seat is not installed, the LATCH-type anchors can be folded back between the seat cushion and the backrest.

1 Anchors 2 Button 왘 Grip inner side of anchors 1 and fold forward until they audibly lock in place.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

왘 Install child seat according to the

manufacturer’s instructions.

Warning!

Children too big for child restraint systems must ride in back seats using regular seat belts. Position shoulder belt across chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper belt positioning for children from 41 lbs until they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without a booster.

Before installing the child seat, make sure anchors 1 are folded out and locked in place.

Install child seat according to manufactur- er’s instructions.

컄컄

The child seat must be firmly attached in the right and left side anchors 1. With a child seat installed in the left rear seat, the seat belt for the center seat occupied by a passenger must op- erate freely. Guide seat belt between its seat cushion mount and backrest mount along outside of right side child seat anchor.

To fold anchors back 왘 Press down button 2 on each anchor

and return anchor 1 to its catch.

Non-LATCH-type child seats may also be used and can be installed using the vehicle’s seat belt system. Install child seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

69

Safety and Security Occupant safety

컄컄

The child seat must be firmly attached in the right and left side anchors 1. An incorrectly mounted child seat may come loose during an accident which could result in serious injury or death to your child.

Damaged or impact-damaged child seats or child seat anchors 1 must be replaced. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, even if the children are secured in a child restraint system.

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Blocking of rear door window operation

The override switch is located on the door control panel of the driver’s door.

Operation of the rear door windows with the switches located on the door control panel of the driver’s door is still possible.

1 Override switch 왘 Slide override switch 1 to the right. The rear door windows can no longer be operated using the switch located in the rear doors.

Warning!

Activate the override switch when children are riding in the back seats of the vehicle. The children may otherwise injure them- selves, e.g. by becoming trapped in the win- dow opening.

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattend- ed in the vehicle, or with access to an un- locked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment can cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.

For more information, see “Power win- dows” (컄 page 200).

Activating

왘 Press and hold button 1 for at least

one second.

Deactivating

왘 Press button 1 again. or 왘 Insert SmartKey in starter switch.

왔 Panic alarm* An audible alarm and flashing exterior lamps will operate for approximately 21/2 minutes.

1 Â button

Canada only: Only vehicles equipped with an anti-theft alarm system* have SmartKeys with integrated panic button 1.

Safety and Security Panic alarm*

For operation in the USA only: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful

interference, and

(2) this device must accept any inter-

ference received, including interfer- ence that may cause undesired operation.

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

71

Safety and Security Driving safety systems 왔 Driving safety systems In this section you will find information on the following driving safety systems: 앫 ABS (Antilock Brake System) 앫 BAS (Brake Assist System) 앫 ESP (Electronic Stability Program) 앫 4MATIC (Four Wheel Electronic

Traction System)

In winter operation, the maximum effectiveness of the ABS, ESP and 4MATIC (if so equipped) is only achieved with winter tires (M+S tires), or snow chains as required.

72

Warning!

ABS

The following factors increase the risk of accidents: 앫 Excessive speed, especially in turns 앫 Wet and slippery road surfaces 앫 Following another vehicle too closely The ABS, BAS, ESP and 4MATIC (if so equipped) cannot reduce this risk.

Always adjust your driving style to the prevailing road and weather conditions.

Warning!

Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pump- ing the brake pedal defeats the purpose of the ABS and significantly reduces braking effectiveness.

The Antilock Brake System (ABS) regulates the brake pressure so that the wheels do not lock during braking. This allows you to maintain the ability to steer your vehicle. The ABS is functional above a speed of ap- proximately 5 mph (8 km/h) independent of road surface conditions. On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will respond even with light brake pressure. The - indicator lamp in the instrument cluster (컄 page 22) comes on when you turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 2. It goes out when the engine is running.

Braking At the instant one of the wheels is about to lock up, a slight pulsation can be felt in the brake pedal, indicating that the ABS is in the regulating mode. 왘 Keep firm and steady pressure on the

brake pedal while experiencing the pulsation.

Continuous steady brake pedal pressure yields the advantages provided by the ABS, namely braking power and ability to steer the vehicle. The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving.

Emergency brake maneuver 왘 Keep continious full pressure on the

brake pedal.

Warning!

The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking or steering efficiency beyond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction. The ABS cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of others.

For more information, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 274).

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

BAS

The Brake Assist System (BAS) operates in emergency situations. If you apply the brakes very quickly, the BAS automatically provides full brake boost, thereby poten- tially reducing the braking distance. Apply continuous full braking pressure until the emergency braking situation is over. The ABS will prevent the wheels from locking. When you release the brake pedal, the brakes function again as normal. The BAS is then deactivated.

73

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

Warning!

ESP

The BAS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking efficiency beyond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction. The BAS cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of a BAS equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or danger- ous manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of others.

For more information, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 281).

The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) monitors the vehicle's traction (force of adhesive friction between the tires and the road surface) and handling. The ESP recognizes when a wheel is spinning or if the vehicle starts to skid. By applying brakes to the appropriate wheel and by limiting engine output, the ESP works to stabilize the vehicle. The ESP is especially useful while driving off and on wet or slippery road surfaces. The ESP warning lamp v in the speedometer flashes when the ESP is engaged. The ESP warning lamp v in the speedometer comes on when you turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 2. It goes out when the engine is running.

Warning!

Never switch off the ESP when you see the ESP warning lamp v flashing in the speedometer. In this case, proceed as follows: 앫 While driving off, apply as little throttle

as possible.

앫 While driving, ease up on the accelera-

tor.

앫 Adapt your speed and driving style to

the prevailing road conditions.

Failure to observe these guidelines could cause the vehicle to skid.

The ESP cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed.

74

Warning!

The ESP cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase the traction afforded. The ESP cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns or hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ESP equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or danger- ous manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of others.

The ESP will only function properly if you use wheels of the recommended tire size.

Vehicles without 4MATIC: Because of the ESP’s automatic operation, the engine must be shut off (SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1) when 앫 the parking brake is being tested on

a brake test dynamometer

앫 the vehicle is being towed with the

front axle raised

Active braking action through the ESP may otherwise seriously damage the brake system. For information on vehicles with 4MATIC, see “Four wheel electronic traction system (4MATIC) with the ESP” (컄 page 77).

For more information, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 277) and (컄 page 282).

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

Switching off the ESP

Warning!

The ESP should not be switched off during normal driving other than in the circum- stances described below. Disabling of the system will reduce vehicle stability in stan- dard driving maneuvers.

To improve the vehicle's traction, turn off the ESP in driving situations where it would be advantageous to have the drive wheels spin and thus cut into surfaces for better grip such as: 앫 starting out on slippery surfaces and in

deep snow in conjunction with snow chains

앫 in sand or gravel

75

If one or more drive wheels are spinning, the ESP warning lamp v in the speed- ometer flashes, regardless of the speed. Traction control brakes a spinning wheel even when the ESP is deactivated. The ESP always operates when you are braking, even when it has been deacti- vated.

Avoid spinning of a drive wheel for an extended period with the ESP switched off. This may cause serious damage to the drive train which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Warning!

When the ESP warning lamp v is illuminated continuously, the ESP is switched off.

Adapt your speed and driving to the prevail- ing road conditions and to the non-operating status of the ESP.

Switching on the ESP 왘 Press lower switch position 2.

The ESP warning lamp v in the speedometer goes out. You are now again in normal driving mode.

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

The switch is located on the center console.

1 ESP off 2 ESP on 왘 Press upper switch position 1.

The ESP warning lamp v in the speedometer comes on. The ESP is deactivated.

76

Four wheel electronic traction system (4MATIC) with the ESP

Warning!

Models with all-wheel-drive only. The 4MATIC improves vehicle’s ability to use available traction, e.g. during winter operation in mountains under snowy conditions, by applying power to all four wheels.

If you see the ESP warning lamp v flash- ing in the speedometer, proceed as follows: 앫 While driving off, apply as little throttle

as possible

앫 While driving, ease up on the accelera-

tor

앫 Adapt your speed and driving style to

the prevailing road conditions

Failure to observe these guidelines could cause the vehicle to skid.

The ESP cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed.

Do not tow with one axle raised. Otherwise the transfer case can be damaged, which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

Performance testing must only be con- ducted on a two-axle dynamometer. Otherwise the transfer case can be damaged, which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Because of the ESP’s automatic operation, the engine must be shut off (SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1) when the parking brake is being tested on a brake test dynamometer Active braking action through ESP may otherwise seriously damage the front or rear axle brake system. Operational tests with the engine running can only be conducted on a two-axle dynamometer.

77

Safety and Security Anti-theft systems 왔 Anti-theft systems Immobilizer

The immobilizer prevents unauthorized persons from starting your vehicle.

Activating 앫 Removing the SmartKey from the

starter switch activates the immobilizer.

Deactivating 앫 Inserting the SmartKey in the starter

switch deactivates the immobilizer.

In case the engine cannot be started (yet the vehicle’s battery is charged), the system is not operational. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (in the USA), or 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada).

78

Anti-theft alarm system*

Once the alarm system has been armed, a visual and audible alarm is triggered when someone opens 앫 a door 앫 the trunk lid 앫 the hood The alarm will stay on, even if the activating element (a door, for example) is immediately closed. The alarm system will also be triggered when 앫 someone attempts to raise the vehicle 앫 opening the vehicle with the

mechanical key

If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically by the Tele Aid system* (컄 page 223) provided Tele Aid service was subscribed to and properly activated, and that necessary cellular service and GPS coverage are available.

Arming the alarm system The alarm system is armed after locking the vehicle with the SmartKey. The turn signal lamps flash three times to indicate that the alarm system is activated. A red indicator lamp in the switch for the tow-away alarm (컄 page 79) begins to flash after approx. ten seconds after arming the alarm system.

i If the turn signal lamps do not flash three times, one of the following elements may not be properly closed: 앫 a door 앫 the trunk lid Close the respective element and lock the vehicle again.

Safety and Security Anti-theft systems

Tow-away alarm*

Once the tow-away alarm is armed, a visual and audible alarm will be triggered when someone attempts to raise the vehicle.

The tow-away protection alarm is triggered, for example, if the vehicle is lifted on one side. If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically by the Tele Aid system* (컄 page 223) provided Tele Aid service was subscribed to and properly activated, and that necessary cellular service and GPS coverage are available.

Disarming the alarm system The alarm system is disarmed when you unlock your vehicle with the SmartKey. The turn signal lamps flash once to indicate that the alarm system is deactivated.

The alarm system will rearm automati- cally after approximately 40 seconds if no door or the trunk lid was opened.

Canceling the alarm To cancel the alarm: 왘 Insert the SmartKey in the starter

switch.

or 왘 Press the Œ or ‹ button on the

SmartKey.

79

Safety and Security Anti-theft systems

Arming tow-away alarm When you lock your vehicle, the tow-away alarm is automatically armed after about 30 seconds. When you unlock your vehicle, the tow-away protection disarms automatically.

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

80

The switch is located on the center console.

1 Tow-away alarm off switch 2 Indicator lamp 왘 Switch off the ignition and remove the

SmartKey.

You cannot disarm the tow-away alarm while the ignition is switched on.

왘 Press upper switch position 1.

Indicator lamp 2 in switch comes on briefly.

왘 Exit and lock your vehicle with the

SmartKey.

The tow-away alarm remains disarmed until you lock your vehicle again.

Canceling the alarm To cancel the alarm: 왘 Insert the SmartKey in the starter

switch.

or 왘 Press the Œ or ‹ button on the

SmartKey.

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

Seats

Memory function*

Lighting

Instrument cluster

Control system

Manual transmission

Automatic transmission*

Good visibility

Climate control

Automatic climate control*

Audio system

Power windows

Sliding/pop-up roof*

Driving systems

Loading

Useful features

81

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

In the “Controls in detail” section you will find detailed information on how to oper- ate the equipment installed on your vehi- cle. If you are already familiar with the basic functions of your vehicle, this section will be of particular interest to you. To quickly familiarize yourself with the ba- sic functions of the vehicle, refer to the “Getting started” section of this manual. The corresponding page numbers are giv- en at the beginning of each segment.

82

Locking and unlocking

왔 SmartKey

Your vehicle comes supplied with two SmartKeys, each with remote control and a removable mechanical key. The locking tabs for the mechanical key portion of the two SmartKeys are a different color to help distinguish each SmartKey unit. The SmartKey provides an extended oper- ating range. To prevent theft, however, it is advisable to only unlock the vehicle when you are in close proximity to it. The SmartKey centrally locks and unlocks: 앫 the doors 앫 the trunk 앫 the fuel filler flap

You can also open and close the power windows (컄 page 202) and sliding/pop-up roof* (컄 page 204) from outside using the SmartKey.

SmartKey with remote control 1 ‹ Lock button 2 Š Opening button for the trunk lid 3 Mechanical key locking tab 4 Œ Unlock button 5 Battery check lamp 6  Panic button* (컄 page 71).

Canada only: Only vehicles equipped with an anti-theft alarm system* have SmartKeys with integrated panic button* 6.

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

To prevent possible malfunction, avoid exposing the SmartKey to high levels of electromagnetic radiation.

Factory setting

Global unlocking 왘 Press button Œ.

All turn signal lamps flash once. The locking knobs in the doors move up. The vehicle will lock again automatically within approximately 40 seconds of unlocking if: 앫 neither door nor trunk is opened 앫 the SmartKey is not inserted in the

starter switch

앫 the central locking switch is not

activated

Global locking 왘 Press button ‹.

All turn signal lamps flash three times. The locking knobs in the doors move down.

Selective setting If you frequently travel alone, you may wish to reprogram the SmartKey so that pressing Œ only unlocks the driver’s door and the fuel filler flap. 왘 Press and hold buttons Œ and ‹ simultaneously for about five seconds until battery check lamp 5 flashes twice. The SmartKey will then function as follows: Unlocking driver’s door and fuel filler flap 왘 Press button Œ once.

Global unlocking 왘 Press button Œ twice. Global locking 왘 Press button ‹.

Restoring to factory setting 왘 Press and hold buttons Œ and ‹ simultaneously for about six seconds until battery check lamp 5 flashes twice.

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. It is possible for children to open a locked door from the inside, which could result in an accident and/or serious injury.

83

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

If you can no longer lock or unlock the vehicle with the SmartKey, then either the batteries in the SmartKey are dis- charged, the SmartKey is malfunction- ing or the vehicle battery is drained. 앫 Check the batteries in the

SmartKey (컄 page 84) and replace them if necessary (컄 page 307). or

앫 Use the mechanical key to unlock

the doors (컄 page 305) and the trunk lid (컄 page 306) as required. or

앫 Use the mechanical key to lock the doors (컄 page 306) and the trunk lid (컄 page 306) as required. or

앫 Have the vehicle battery and the

battery connections checked.

84

If the SmartKey is malfunctioning, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Checking the batteries 왘 Press button ‹ or Œ.

Battery check lamp 5 comes on briefly to indicate that the SmartKey batteries are in order.

If battery check lamp 5 does not come on briefly during check, then the SmartKey batteries are discharged. Replace the batteries (컄 page 307). You can obtain the required batteries at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If the batteries are checked within signal range of the vehicle, pressing the ‹ or Œ button will lock or unlock the vehicle accordingly.

Unlocking and opening the trunk lid You can unlock and open the trunk separately. A minimum height clearance of 5.71 ft (1.74 m) is required to open the trunk lid. 왘 Press button Š until trunk unlocks

and begins to open.

The trunk lid swings open upwards automatically. Always make sure there is sufficient overhead clearance.

The trunk can also be opened from its inside in an emergency, see “Trunk lid emergency release” (컄 page 88).

i If the trunk lid does not open, it is still locked separately (if applicable) (컄 page 89). If the vehicle was previously centrally locked, the trunk lid will lock automati- cally when closed (컄 page 87). The turn signals will flash three times to confirm locking.

Loss of SmartKey or mechanical key If you lose a SmartKey or mechanical key, you should do the following: 왘 Have the SmartKey deactivated by an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

왘 Report the loss of the SmartKey or the

mechanical key immediately to your car insurance company.

왘 If necessary, have the mechanical lock

replaced.

Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to supply you with a replace- ment.

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

Opening the doors from the inside

You can open a locked door from the