2004 Mercedes-benz C Class Owners Manual

Alternative fuel: Ethanol fuel (E85)

Front axle

Transfer case

Power steering Front wheel hubs Brake system Cooling system

Fuel tank including a reserve of

350

Air conditioning system

Model

Capacity

Windshield washer Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning system* 1 Use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and water for temperatures above freezing point or MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and commercially available

3.2 US qt (3.0 l) 6.4 US qt (6.0 l)

premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze for temperatures below freezing point. Follow suggested mixing ratios (컄 page 358).

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc. R-134a refrigerant and special PAG lubricant oil (never R-12) MB Windshield Washer Concentrate1

351

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Engine oils

Engine oils are specifically tested for their suitability in our engines. Therefore, only use engine oils approved by Mercedes-Benz. Information on approved engine oils is available in the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet, or at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Always check the oil filler cap (컄 page 255) for important information pertaining to the engine oil needing to meet a specific Mercedes-Benz specifi- cation (e.g. MB 229.5). If such informa- tion is printed on the oil filler cap, only use an engine oil from the list of ap- proved engine oils in the Factory Ap- proved Service Products pamphlet that meets the specification indicated on the oil filler cap.

352

Using engine oils of other specification may cause the FSS to incorrectly deter- mine the next service interval and will result in engine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Please follow FSS recommendations for scheduled oil changes. Failure to do so could result in engine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Engine oil additives

Do not blend oil additives with engine oil. They may damage the engine. Damage or malfunctions resulting from blending oil additives are not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Air conditioning refrigerant

R-134a (HFC) refrigerant and special PAG lubricating oil is used in the air conditioning system.

Never use R-12 (CFC) or mineral-based lubricating oil. Otherwise damage to the system will occur.

Brake fluid

During vehicle operation, the boiling point of the brake fluid is continuously reduced through the absorption of moisture from the atmosphere. Under extremely strenu- ous operating conditions, this moisture content can lead to the formation of bubbles in the system, thus reducing the system’s efficiency. Therefore, the brake fluid must be replaced every two years, preferably in the spring. Only brake fluid approved by Mercedes-Benz is recommended. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will provide you with additional information.

Premium unleaded gasoline

Fuel requirements

To maintain the engine’s durability and performance, premium unleaded gaso- line must be used. If premium unleaded is not available and low octane fuel is used, follow these precautions: 앫 Have the fuel tank only partially

filled with unleaded regular and fill up with premium unleaded as soon as possible.

앫 Avoid full throttle driving and abrupt

acceleration.

앫 Do not exceed an engine speed of 3000 rpm if the vehicle is loaded with a light load such as two persons and no luggage.

앫 Do not exceed 2/3 of maximum accelerator pedal position if the vehicle is fully loaded or operating in mountainous terrain.

Flexible Fuel Vehicles (identified by a label reading Premium gasoline or E85 only! are designed to operate on premium unleaded gasoline or Ethanol fuel (E85) or any mixture of these two. See notes on Flexible Fuel Vehicles (컄 page 354).

Only use premium unleaded meeting ASTM standard D 439: 앫 The octane number (posted at the

pump) must be 91 min. It is an average of both the Research (R) octane num- ber and the Motor (M) octane number: (R+M)/2. This is also known as the ANTI-KNOCK INDEX.

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Unleaded gasoline containing oxygenates such as Ethanol, IPA, IBA and TBA can be used provided the ratio of any one of these oxygenates to gasoline does not exceed 10%; MTBE must not exceed 15%. The ratio of Methanol to gasoline must not exceed 3% plus additional cosolvents. Using mixtures of Ethanol and Methanol is not allowed. Gasohol, which contains 10% Ethanol and 90% unleaded gasoline, can be used. These blends must also meet all other fuel requirements, such as resistance to spark knock, boiling range, vapor pressure, etc.

353

Damage or malfunctions resulting from poor fuel quality or from blending specific fuel additives are not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Flexible Fuel Vehicles

Flexible Fuel Vehicles are identified by a label reading Premium gasoline or E85 only! on fuel filler flap. These vehicles are designed to operate on premium unleaded gasoline or Ethanol fuel (E85), or on any mixture of these two. Ethanol fuel (E85) is a mixture of approximately 85% Ethanol and 15% unleaded gasoline.

Warning!

Ethanol fuel (E85) and its fumes are highly flammable, poisonous and burn easily. Etha- nol fuel can cause serious injuries if ignited or if you come into contact with it or inhale fumes of it. Avoid inhalation of Ethanol fumes and skin contact with Ethanol. Extin- guish all open flames before fueling. Never smoke or create sparks close to Ethanol.

Switching fuels For best performance and driveability it is recommended to use either one or the other fuel. A refueling pattern that alternates between the two different fuels should be avoided if possible.

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Gasoline additives

A major concern among engine manufacturers is carbon build-up caused by gasoline. Mercedes-Benz recommends only the use of quality gasoline containing additives that prevent the build up of carbon deposits. After an extended period of using fuels without such additives, carbon deposits can build up especially on the intake valves and in the combustion area, leading to engine performance problems such as: 앫 Warm-up hesitation 앫 Unstable idle 앫 Knocking/pinging 앫 Misfire 앫 Power loss Do not blend any specific fuel additives with fuel. This only results in unnecessary cost and may be harmful to engine operation.

354

When switching fuels, make sure: 앫 Fuel level is below half full. 앫 Fuel level is above reserve (fuel reserve

warning lamp is not lit).

앫 Amount of added fuel is more than

5 gallons (20 liters).

앫 Ignition is off during refill. 앫 Immediately after refueling engine is started and operated for at least five minutes.

These precautions and recommendations are supposed to prevent any difficulties when starting and operating the engine which otherwise may be experienced before the engine has fully adapted to the different fuel. If in spite of these recommendations the engine does not perform properly, adding more gasoline [at least 3 gallons (12 liters)] to the fuel may improve the engine behavior.

Cold weather performance It is possible that starting times will signif- icantly increase at temperatures below 32°F (0°C). At low temperatures the use of a block heater (Canada only) is recommended (see your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further information). Rough idling may also be experienced at such temperatures before the engine is fully warmed up.

E85 fuel is unsuitable for use when ambient temperatures fall below 14°F (-10°C).

Hot weather performance At ambient temperatures above 95°F (35°C) start times may increase and be accompanied by a rough idle following the start.

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Cruising range E85 fuel contains less energy per gallon than gasoline. To ensure that engine per- formance with Ethanol fuel is similar to that when using gasoline, the engine must burn more Ethanol fuel. As a result, it is to be expected that the fuel consumption will increase when using E85 compared to gasoline operation.

Use of E85 may reduce your driving range.

Maintenance Please inform your Mercedes-Benz Center if you use or have used E85 fuel when your vehicle is delivered for maintenance or repairs.

355

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Coolants

The engine coolant is a mixture of water and anticorrosion/antifreeze, which provides: 앫 Corrosion protection 앫 Freeze protection 앫 Boiling protection (by increasing the

boiling point)

The cooling system was filled at the factory with a coolant providing freeze protection to approximately -22°F (-30°C) and corrosion protection. If the antifreeze mixture is effective to -22°F (-30°C), the boiling point of the coolant in the pressurized cooling system is reached at approx. 266°F (130°C).

356

The coolant solution must be used year-round to provide the necessary corro- sion protection and increase boil-over protection. Refer to Service Booklet for replacement interval. Coolant system design and coolant used stipulate the replacement interval. The replacement interval published in the Service Booklet is only applicable if MB 325.0 anticorrosion/antifreeze solution or other Mercedes-Benz approved products of equal specification (see Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet) are used to renew the coolant concentration or bring it back up to the proper level. To provide important corrosion protection, the solution must be at least 45% anticorrosion/antifreeze [equivalent to freeze protection to approx. -22°F (-30°C)].

If you use a solution that is more than 55% anticorrosion/antifreeze [freeze protection to approx. -49°F (-45°C)], the engine temperature will increase due to the lower heat transfer capability of the solution. Therefore, do not use more than this amount of anticorrosion/antifreeze. If the coolant level is low, water and MB 325.0 anticorrosion/antifreeze should be used to bring it up to the proper level (have cooling system checked for signs of leakage). Please make sure the mixture is in accordance with label instructions. The water in the cooling system must meet minimum requirements, which are usually satisfied by normal drinking water. If you are not sure about the water quality, consult your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Failure to use such anticorrosion/anti- freeze coolant will result in a significantly shortened service life. Therefore, the following product is strongly recommended for use in your vehicle: Mercedes-Benz 325.0 Anticorrosion/Antifreeze Agent.

Before the start of the winter season (or once a year in hot southern regions), you should have the anticorrosion/antifreeze concentration checked. The coolant is also regularly checked each time you bring your vehicle to your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for service.

Anticorrosion/antifreeze Your vehicle contains a number of aluminum parts. The use of aluminum components in motor vehicle engines necessitates that anticorrosion/antifreeze coolant used in such engines be specifi- cally formulated to protect the aluminum parts.

Anticorrosion/antifreeze quantity

Model

C 230 Kompressor Sport C 240/C 320 (all models) C 32 AMG

Approx. freeze protection –35°F (–37°C) 3.0 US qt (2.8 l) 3.4 US qt (3.2 l) 3.4 US qt (3.2 l)

–49°F (–45°C) 3.3 US qt (3.1 l) 3.8 US qt (3.6 l) 3.8 US qt (3.6 l)

357

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning* system

Both the windshield and headlamp washer systems are supplied from the windshield washer fluid reservoir. The washer fluid reservoir has a capacity of approx.: 앫 3.2 US qt (3.0 l) in vehicles without

headlamp cleaning system*

앫 6.4 US qt (6.0 l) in vehicles with

headlamp cleaning system*

왘 Refill the reservoir with MB Windshield

Washer Concentrate “S” and water (or concentrate and commercially available premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze, depending on ambient temperatures).

Warning!

Washer solvent/antifreeze is highly flamma- ble. Do not spill washer solvent/antifreeze on hot engine parts, because it may ignite and burn. You could be seriously burned.

Windshield and headlamp washer fluid mixing ratio For temperatures above freezing, use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and water: 앫 1 part “S” to 100 parts water [40 ml “S” to 1 gallon (4.0 liters) water] For temperatures below freezing, use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and commercially available premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze: 앫 1 part “S” to 100 parts solvent [40 ml “S” to 1 gallon (4.0 liters) solvent]

358

왔 Consumer information The following text is published as required of all manufacturers of passenger cars under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”.

Uniform tire quality grading

Quality grades can be found, where applicable, on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:

Tread wear 200

Traction AA

Temperature

All passenger car tires must conform to federal safety requirements in addition to these grades.

Tread Wear The tread wear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (11/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to varia- tions in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Technical data Consumer information

Traction The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

Warning!

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

359

Warning!

The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause excessive heat build-up and possible tire failure.

Technical data Consumer information

Temperature The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. Grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

360

ABS

(Antilock Brake System) Prevents the wheels from locking up during braking so that the vehicle can continue to be steered.

Alignment bolt

Metal pin with thread. The centering pin is an aid used when changing a tire to align the wheel with the wheel hub.

BabySmartTM1 airbag deactivation system

This system detects if a special system compatible child restraint seat is installed on the front passenger seat. The system will automatically deacti- vate the passenger front airbag when such a seat is properly installed (PASS. AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp located in the center console comes on). See your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability.

1 BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens

Automotive Corp.

Technical terms

BabySmartTM compatible child seats Special restraint system for children. The sensor system for the passenger seat prevents deployment of the passenger front airbag if a BabySmartTM compatible child seat is installed.

CAC

(Customer Assistance Center) Mercedes-Benz customer service center, which can help you with any questions about your vehicle and provide assistance in the event of a breakdown.

BAS

CAN system

(Brake Assist System) System for potentially reducing braking distances in emergency braking situations. The system is activated when it senses an emergency based on how fast the brake is applied.

(Controller Area Network) Data bus network serving to control vehicle functions such as door locking or windshield wiping depending on vehicle settings and/or ambient conditions.

Bi-Xenon headlamps*

Cockpit

Headlamps which use an electric arc as the light source and produce a more intense light than filament headlamps. Bi-Xenon headlamps produce low beam and high beam.

All instruments, switches, buttons and indicator/warning lamps in the passenger compartment needed for vehicle operation and monitoring.

361

Technical terms

COMAND*

Engine number

FSS

(Cockpit Management and Data System) Information and operating center for vehicle sound and communications systems, including the radio and the navigation system, as well as other optional equipment (CD changer*, telephone*, etc.).

Control system

The control system is used to call up vehicle information and to change component settings. Information and messages appear in the multifunction display. The driver uses the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel to navigate through the system and to adjust settings.

Cruise control

Driving convenience system for automatically maintaining the vehicle speed set by the driver.

362

The number set by the manufacturer and placed on the cylinder block to uniquely identify each engine produced.

Engine oil viscosity

Measurement for the inner friction (viscosity) of the oil at different temper- atures. The higher the temperature an oil can tolerate without becoming thin, or the lower the temperature it can tolerate without becoming viscous, the better the viscosity.

(Flexible Service System) Service indicator in the multifunction display that informs the driver when the next vehicle maintenance service is due.

Gear range

Number of gears which are available to the automatic transmission for shifting. The automatic gear shifting process can be adapted to specific operating conditions using the gear selector lever.

ESP

GPS

(Electronic Stability Program) Improves vehicle handling and directional stability.

ETD

(Emergency Tensioning Device) Device which deploys in certain frontal and rear collisions exceeding the system's threshold to tighten the seat belts. ->SRS

(Global Positioning System) Satellite-based system for relaying geographic location information to and from vehicles equipped with special receivers. Employs CD digital maps for navigation.

Instrument cluster

Menu

The displays and indicator/warning lamps in the driver’s field of vision, including the tachometer, speedo- meter, engine temperature display and fuel gauge.

Kickdown

Depressing the accelerator past the point of resistance shifts the transmis- sion down to the lowest possible gear. This very quickly accelerates the vehicle and should not be used for normal acceleration needs.

Lock button

Button on the door which indicates whether the door is locked or unlocked. Pushing the lock button down on an individual door from inside will lock that door.

Memory function*

Used to store three individual seat, steering wheel and mirror positions for each SmartKey.

The control system displays are arranged in menus. Each menu contains a number of commands for particular systems. In the Audio menu, for example, you will find the commands SELECT RADIO STATION or OPERATE CD PLAYER. Using commands, you can directly change the settings for your vehicle.

MON

(Motor Octane Number) The Motor Octane Number for gasoline as determined by a standardized method. It is an indication of a gasoline's ability to resist undesired detonation (knocking). The average of both the MON (Motor Octane Number) and ->RON (Research Octane Number) is posted at the pump, also known as ANTI-KNOCK INDEX.

Technical terms

Multifunction display

Display field in the instrument cluster used to present information provided by the control system.

Multifunction steering wheel

Steering wheel with buttons for operating the control system.

Overspeed range

Engine speeds within the red marking of the tachometer dial. Avoid this engine speed range, as it may result in serious engine damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Poly-V-belt drive

Drives engine-components (alternator, AC compressor, etc.) from the engine.

363

Technical terms

Power train

Remote Vehicle Diagnostics

RON

Collective term designating all components used to generate and transmit motive power to the drive axles, including 앫 engine 앫 clutch/torque converter 앫 transmission 앫 transfer case 앫 drive shaft 앫 differential 앫 axle shafts/axles

Program mode selector switch

Used to switch the automatic trans- mission between standard operation S and comfort operation C.

Transmission of vehicle data and current location to the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center for subscribers to Tele Aid service.

REST

(Residual engine heat utilization) Feature that uses the engine heat stored in the coolant to heat the vehicle interior for a short time after the engine has been turned off.

Restraint systems

Seat belts, belt tensioners, airbags and child restraint systems. As inde- pendent systems, their protective functions complement one another.

(Research Octane Number) The Research Octane Number for gaso- line as determined by a standardized method. It is an indication of a gaso- line's ability to resist undesired deto- nation (knocking). The average of both the ->MON (Motor Octane Number) and RON (Research Octane Number) is posted at the pump, also known as ANTI-KNOCK INDEX.

Shift lock

When the vehicle is parked, this lock prevents the transmission gear selector lever from being moved out of position P without SmartKey turned and brake pedal depressed.

SRS

(Supplemental Restraint System) Seat belts, emergency tensioning device and airbags. Though indepen- dent systems, they are closely inter- faced to provide effective occupant protection.

364

Technical terms

Tele Aid* System

Telematics*

Traction

(Telematic Alarm Identification on Demand) The Tele Aid system consists of three types of response: automatic and manual emergency, roadside assis- tance and information. Tele Aid is initially activated by completing a subscriber agreement and placing an acquaintance call. The Tele Aid system is operational provided that the vehicle’s battery is charged, properly connected, not damaged and cellular and GPS coverage is available.

A combination of the terms “tele- communications” and “informatics”.

Force exerted by the vehicle on the road via the tires.

Tightening torque

VIN

Force times lever arm (e.g. a lug wrench) with which threaded fasteners such as wheel bolts are tightened.

Tire speed rating

Part of tire designation; indicates the speed range for which a tire is approved.

(Vehicle Identification Number) The number set by the manufacturer and placed on the body to uniquely identify each vehicle produced.

Voice control system*

Voice control system for car phones, portable cell phones and audio systems (radio, CD, etc.).

365

366

Index

ABS 23, 72, 361

ABS control 72
Malfunction indicator lamp 274
Messages in display 284

Accelerator position,

automatic transmission* 147

Accident

In case of 49

Activating

Air conditioning (cooling)

Automatic climate control* 170
Climate control 160

Air recirculation mode

Automatic climate control* 167
Climate control 158

Anti-theft alarm system* 78
Automatic climate control* 163
Central locking (control system) 133
Charcoal filter 169
Climate control 155

Climate control system 159
Defrosting

Automatic climate control* 167
Climate control 158

Easy-entry/exit feature* 134
ESP 76
Exterior headlamps 46
Exterior lamps 103
Exterior rear view mirror parking position* 150

Hazard warning flasher 106
Headlamps 46
High beams 106
Ignition 31
Immobilizer 52
Rapid seat heating* 98
Rear fog lamp 104, 105
Rear window defroster 153
Residual heat 171
Seat heating* 98
Tow-away alarm* 80
Windshield wipers 48

Adding

Coolant 257
Engine oil 255

Additional turn signals 310
Adjustable air vents,

rear passenger compartment Automatic climate control* 172
Climate control 161

Adjusting 32

Air distribution

Automatic climate control* 166
Climate control 157

Air volume

Automatic climate control* 166
Climate control 157

Backrest contour 97
Backrest side bolsters 97
Backrest tilt

Manual seat 33
Power seat* 35

Exterior rear view mirrors 38

367

Index

Head restraint height, front seats

Manual seat 34
Power seat* 35

Head restraint height, rear seats 94
Head restraint tilt, front seats

Manual seat 34
Power seat* 36

Head restraint tilt, rear seats 96
Head restraints, rear seats

Folding back 95
Folding back with release

switch 95

Placing upright 95

Instrument cluster illumination 109
Interior rear view mirror 38
Manual seat 33
Mirrors 38
Multicontour seat* 97
Power seat* 35
Rear seat head restraints 94

Seat belt height 42
Seat cushion depth 97
Seat cushion tilt

Manual seat 33
Power seat* 35

Seat fore and aft adjustment

Manual seat 33
Power seat* 35

Seat height

Manual seat 33
Power seat* 35

Seats 32
Steering column height,

electrical* 38

Steering column height,

manual 37

Steering column length,

electrical* 38

Steering column length,

manual 37

Steering wheel 36

Air conditioning (cooling)

Turning off

Automatic climate control* 170
Climate control 160

Turning on

Automatic climate control* 170
Climate control 160

Air conditioning refrigerant 352
Air distribution

Adjusting

Automatic climate control* 166
Climate control 157

Air pressure see Tire inflation pressure Air recirculation mode

Activating

Automatic climate control* 167
Climate control 158

Deactivating

Automatic climate control* 168
Climate control 159

368

Air vents, rear passenger compartment

Alarm system

Adjustable

Automatic climate control* 172
Climate control 161

Air volume

Adjusting

Anti-theft* 78
Tow-away* 79

Alignment bolt (vehicle tool kit) 319, 361
Anticorrosion/antifreeze 357
Antiglare

Automatic climate control* 166
Climate control 157

Automatic* 149
Manual 149

Airbags 55

BabySmartTM deactivation

system 66, 361

Children 56
Front 59
Passenger 59
Safety guidelines 58
Side impact 60
Window curtain 60

Alarm

Audible 71, 78
Canceling 79
Visual 78

Antilock Brake System see ABS Anti-theft alarm system*

Arming 78
Canceling alarm 79
Disarming 79

Anti-theft systems 78

Anti-theft alarm system* 78
Immobilizer 78
Tow-away alarm* 79

Aquaplaning see Hydroplaning Armrest

Storage compartment in front of 218
Storage spaces 219

Ashtrays 220

Index

ATF 256
AUDIO menu 118

Selecting radio station 119
Selecting satellite radio* station 119

Audio system 173

Audio and telephone, operation 173
Button and soft key operation 176
Cassette operation 186
CD* operation 189
Operating and display elements 174
Operating safety 173
Operation 176
Radio operation 179
Switching off 176
Switching on 176
Telephone* operation 193

Automatic antiglare* for rear view

mirror 149

Automatic central locking

Activating/deactivating (control system) 133

369

Index

Automatic climate control* 162

Activating 163
Adjusting air distribution 166
Adjusting air volume 166
Air recirculation mode 167
Deactivating 163
Defrosting 167
Rear window defroster 153
Residual heat utilization 171
Residual ventilation 171
Setting the temperature 165
Automatic headlamp mode 103
Automatic lighting control

Activating 107
Deactivating 107

Automatic locking when driving 90
Automatic transmission fluid see ATF Automatic transmission* 142
Accelerator position 147
Comfort program mode 146
Emergency operation

(Limp Home Mode) 147

Fluid level 256

370

Gear ranges 144
Gear selector lever 44
Gear selector lever position 142, 145
Gear shifting malfunctions 147
Kickdown 147
Manual shifting 143
One-touch gearshifting 143
Program mode selector switch 146
Starting with 44
Transmission fluid 256

Auxiliary fuse box 334

BabySmartTM

Airbag deactivation system 66, 361
Compatible child seats 66, 361
Self-test 66

Backrest

Folding forward 213
Folding rearward 213

Backrest contour Adjusting 97

Backrest side bolsters

Adjusting 97

Backrest tilt

Manual seat 33
Power seat* 35

Backup lamps 311, 315

Bulbs 310
BAS 73, 361

Messages in display 281

Batteries, SmartKey Changing 307
Check lamp 83
Checking 84
Battery discharged

Jump starting 326

Battery, vehicle 258, 323

Charging 324
Disconnecting 324
Messages in display 285
Reconnecting 325
Reinstalling 324
Removing 324

Index

Bi-Xenon headlamps* 361
Bi-Xenon type*

Front lamp bulbs 313

Block heater 264
Blocking

Rear door window operation 70

Bolts

For Minispare wheel 304
Brake Assist System see BAS Brake fluid 352

Checking 251
Message in display 286

Brake lamp bulbs 311
Brake lamp, high mounted 311
Brake pads

Message in display 286

Brakes 240

Warning lamp 275

Break-in period 238

Bulbs, replacing 310

Additional turn signals 310
Backup lamps 311
Brake lamps 311
Fog lamps 310
Front lamps 310
High beam 310
High beam flasher 310
High mounted brake lamp 311
License plate lamps 311, 315
Low beam 310
Parking lamps 310, 311, 313, 314
Rear fog lamp 311, 315
Rear lamps 311
Side marker lamps 310, 314
Standing lamps 310, 311, 313, 314
Tail lamp assemblies 311, 315
Turn signal lamps 310, 311

Button

Audio system 176

CAC 361
California

Important notice 11

Calling up

Range (distance to empty) 138
Service indicator 266

CAN system 361
Capacities

Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc. 349

Cargo area see Trunk Cassette operation

Playing cassettes 186

Cassette player

Operating 121

Catalytic converter 247
CD changer* 189
CD player*

Operating 120
CD* operation 189

371

Index

Center console 25
Lower part 26
PASS. AIRBAG OFF

indicator lamp 279

Upper part 25

Centigrade

Setting temperature units 127

Central locking

Automatic 90
From inside 91
Switch 91
Switching on/off

(control system) 133

Unlocking from inside 91

Central locking switch 91
Certification label 338
Changing

Batteries (SmartKey) 307
CDs 189
Key setting 133
Charcoal filter 169

372

Charging

Vehicle battery 324

CHECK ENGINE

malfunction indicator lamp 276

Checking

Brake fluid 251
Coolant level 251, 257
Engine oil level 251, 254
Tire inflation pressure 251
Vehicle lighting 251

Child safety 63
Airbags 56
Infant and child restraint

systems 60, 63

LATCH-type child seat anchors 69

Child safety switch see

Blocking of rear door window operation

Child seat anchors

see LATCH-type child seat anchors

Cigarette lighter 221

Cleaning

Cloth upholstery 272
Cup holder 271
Gear selector lever 271
Hard plastic trim items 271
Headlamps 148
Headliner and shelf below

rear window 271

Instrument cluster 270
Leather upholstery 271
Light alloy wheels 270
MB Tex upholstery 272
Plastic and rubber parts 272
Seat belts 271
Steering wheel 271
Upholstery 271
Windows 270
Windshield 48
Wiper blades 270
Wood trims 272

Climate control 154

Cockpit Management and Data System

Adjusting air distribution

and volume 157

Defogging windshield 157
Defrosting 158
Setting the temperature 156

Clock 23, 126
Closing

Glove box 216
Hood 253
Sliding/pop-up roof* 204
Sliding/pop-up roof*

in an emergency 309

Sliding/pop-up roof*

with SmartKey 204

Trunk lid 87
Windows 201
Windows with SmartKey 202

Cloth upholstery

Cleaning 272
Cockpit 20, 361

see COMAND* COMAND* 362
COMAND*

see separate operating instructions

Combination switch 105
High beam flasher 47
Turn signals 47
Windshield wipers 47

Comfort driving

Transmission program mode 146

Consumer information 359
Control and operation of radio

transmitters 246

Control system 113, 362

AUDIO menu 118
Convenience submenu 133
Display digital speedometer 118
Functions 114, 117
Instrument cluster submenu 126
Lighting submenu 129

Index

Malfunction memory menu 122
Menus 116, 117, 363
Multifunction display 113
Multifunction steering wheel 114
NAVI* menu 121
Selecting radio system 119
Selecting satellite radio* system 119
Settings menu 123
Standard display menu 118
Submenus 115, 117
TEL* menu 138
Trip computer menu 136
Vehicle submenu 132

Controller Area Network see CAN system Convenience submenu 133
Activating easy-entry/exit

feature* 134

Setting key dependency 135
Setting parking position* for exterior

rear view mirror 136

373

Index

Coolant 257, 356

Cup holder

Adding 257
Anticorrosion/antifreeze

quantity 356
Capacities 350
Checking level 257
Messages in display 287–289
Temperature 248
Temperature display 110

Coolant level

Checking 257

Cruise control 206, 362

Canceling 207
Driving downhill 207
Driving uphill 207
Fine adjustment 208
Message in display 290
Setting current speed 207
Setting speeds 208
Cruise control lever 206
Cruising range, fuel 355

Cleaning 271
In front of seat armrest 217
In rear seat armrest 218

Customer Assistance Center see CAC

Daytime running lamp mode 104

Setting 129

Deactivating

Air conditioning (cooling)

Automatic climate control* 170
Climate control 160

Air recirculation mode

Automatic climate control* 168
Climate control 159

Alarm 79
Anti-theft alarm system* 79
Automatic climate control* 163
Central locking (control system) 133
Climate control 155
Climate control system 159

Cruise control 207
Defrosting

Automatic climate control* 167
Climate control 158

Engine with the SmartKey 52
ESP 75
Exterior lamps 103
Exterior lamps delayed shut-off 131
Front fog lamps 131
Hazard warning flasher 106
Headlamps 51
Interior lighting delayed shut-off 132
Rapid seat heating* 98
Rear window defroster 153
Seat heating* 98
Tow-away alarm* 80

Deep water see Standing water Defogging

Windshield

Automatic climate control* 166
Climate control 157

374

Defrosting

Automatic climate control* 167
Climate control 158

Delayed shut-off

Exterior lamps 131
Interior lighting 132

Dialing

A number (telephone*) 140

Difficulties

While driving

see Problems while driving

With starting 44

Digital speedometer 118
Direction of rotation (tires) 261
Discharged battery

Jump starting 326

Disconnecting

Vehicle battery 324

Display

Messages in display 290

Display elements

Audio system 174

Displays

Digital speedometer 118
Messages 280
Selecting 129
Service indicator 265
Showing malfunctions 122
Symbol messages 284
Text messages 281
Distance to empty (range)

Calling up 138

Door control panel 28
Door entry lamps 108
Door handle 28
Door unlock

With Tele Aid* 230

Doors

Message in display 290
Opening from inside vehicle 85
Opening from the outside 83

Downhill driving

Cruise control 207

Index

Downshifting

Automatic transmission* 143
Manual transmission 141

Drink holder see Cup holder Drinking and driving 239
Driving

Driving abroad 246
General instructions 40, 239
Hydroplaning 242
In winter 244
Problems 49
Safety systems 72
Through standing water 245

Driving abroad 246
Driving instructions 239
Driving off 241
Driving safety systems

4MATIC 77
ABS 72
BAS 73
ESP 74

Driving systems 206

Cruise control 206
Driving safety systems 72

375

Index

Easy-entry/exit feature* 92

Activating 134
Interrupting movement 92, 134

Electrical fuses 332
Electrical system

Technical data 346

Electronic Stability Program see ESP Emergency call system* 223
Emergency calls

Initiating an emergency call 226
Telephone* 198
With Tele Aid* 224

Emergency operation

(Limp Home Mode) 147

Emergency operations

Emergency Tensioning Device see ETD Emission control 247
Emission control label 338
Ending

A call (telephone*) 139

Engine

Compartment 252
Starting with

automatic transmission* 44

Starting with

manual transmission 43
Starting with the SmartKey

Automatic transmission* 44
Manual transmission 43

Technical data 340
Turning off with the SmartKey 52

Closing sliding/pop-up roof* 309
Locking the vehicle 306
Opening sliding/pop-up roof* 309
Releasing trunk lid from inside 88
Remote door unlock 230
Unlocking the vehicle 305

Engine cleaning 269
Engine compartment 252

Fuse box in 333
Hood 252

Engine malfunction

indicator lamp 23, 276

Engine number 338, 362
Engine oil 253, 352

Adding 255
Additives 352
Checking level 251, 254
Consumption 253
Display messages 254, 291–292
Filler neck

C 230 Kompressor Sport 256
C 240, C 320, and C 32 AMG 256

Messages in display 254, 291–292
Viscosity 362

Engine oil level

Checking 251, 254

ESP 23, 74, 362

Four wheel electronic

traction system with ESP 77
Messages in display 282–283
Switching off 75
Switching on 76
Synchronizing 282
Warning lamp 277

376

Index

ETD 63, 362

Safety guidelines 58

Ethanol fuel

At the gas station 249
Requirements 354
Switching fuels 354

Exterior lamp switch 46, 102
Exterior lamps

Delayed shut-off 131
Exterior rear view mirrors

Adjusting 38
Parking position* for 136

Fahrenheit

Setting temperature units 127

Fastening the seat belts 40
Filler neck

C 230 Kompressor Sport 256
C 240, C 320, and C 32 AMG 256

Fine adjustment

Cruise control 208

First aid kit 300
Flat tire 317

Lowering the vehicle 321
Minispare wheel 302
Mounting the Minispare wheel 317
Preparing the vehicle 317

Flexible fuel vehicles 354
At the gas station 249
Switching fuels 354

Flexible Service System see FSS Fog lamp, rear

Message in display 294
Replacing bulb 311
Switching on 105

Fog lamps, front

Messages in display 294
Replacing bulbs 310
Switching on 105

Four wheel electronic traction

system (4MATIC) with ESP 77

4MATIC 77
Front airbags 59
Front lamps

Bi-Xenon* type 313
Halogen-type 312
Messages in display 293–296
Replacing bulbs 310, 312
Switching on 102

Front seat head restraints

Installing

Manual seat 93
Power seat* 94

Manual seat 93
Power seat* 94
Removing

Manual seat 93
Power seat* 94

Front seats

Heating* 98

377

Index

FSS 265, 362
Fuel 250

Additives 354
Cruising range 355
E85 (Ethanol fuel) 355
Fuel reserve warning lamp 278
Gasoline additives 354
Message in display 293
Premium unleaded

gasoline 250, 350, 353

Requirements 353, 354
Reserve warning 23
Switching (Flexible Fuel Vehicle) 354
Technical data 350

Fuel additives 354
Fuel cap

Message in display 293

Fuel consumption statistics

After start 137
Since last reset 137

378

Fuel filler flap 249

Locking 249
Opening in an emergency 308
Unlocking 249

Fuel requirements 353
For ethanol fuel 354

Fuel reserve tank

Message in display 293

Fuel tank

Capacity 350
Filler flap 249

Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

Capacities 349

Functions (control system) 114, 117

Resetting 124

Fuse box

Auxiliary in trunk 334
In engine compartment 333
In passenger compartment 332

Fuse chart 332
Fuse extractor 334
Fuses 332

Auxiliary fuse box in trunk 334
Fuse box in engine compartment 333
Fuse box in

passenger compartment 332

Fuse chart 332
Fuse extractor 334
Spare fuses 334

Garage door opener 27, 231
Gasoline additives 354
Gasoline see Fuel Gear range 362

Automatic transmission* 144
Limiting 144
Shifting into optimal 143

Gear range limit

Canceling 143

Index

Gear selector lever 23, 44

Hazard warning flasher 106

Headliner and shelf below rear window

Cleaning 271
Lock 44
Position (Automatic

transmission*) 23, 142, 145

Gearshift lever 43
Global

Locking 83
Unlocking 83

Global Positioning System see GPS Glove box 21, 216

Closing 216
Opening 216

Good visibility 148
GPS 362
GPS see COMAND*

Halogen-type

Front lamp bulbs 312

Hands-free microphone 27
Hard plastic trim items

Cleaning 271

Switching off 106
Switching on 106

Head restraints Front seats

Manual seat 34, 93
Power seat* 35, 94

Rear seats 94

Headlamp cleaning system* 259
Headlamp shut-off delay see Delayed

shut-off, exterior lamps

Headlamps

Automatic control 103
Bi-Xenon* 361
Bi-Xenon* type

Replacing bulbs 313

Cleaning 269
Cleaning system* 148, 259, 358
Halogen-type

Replacing bulbs 312
Refilling washer fluid 259
Switching off 51
Switching on 46
Washer fluid 358

Cleaning 271
Heated seats* 98
Height adjustment

Front seat head restraints

Manual seat 34
Power seat* 35

Rear seat head restraints 94
Seat belts 42
Steering wheel

Adjustment, electrical* 37
Adjustment, manual 37

High beam flasher 47, 106
High beam headlamps

Messages in display 294
Replacing bulbs 310, 312
Switching on 106

High beam headlamps xenon type*

Replacing bulbs 313

High mounted brake lamp 311

379

Index

Hood 252

Closing 253
Message in display 293
Opening 252
Hydroplaning 242

Identification labels 338

Certification label 338
Vehicle Identification Number 338

Ignition 31

Switching on

Automatic transmission* 44
Manual transmission 43

Immobilizer 78

Activating 78
Deactivating 78

Indicator lamps

see Lamps, indicator and warning

380

Infant and child restraint systems 63

Interior lighting 107

Installing 68
LATCH-type child seat anchors 69

Information

About service and warranty 10
Button for Tele Aid* 227

Installing

Infant and child restraint systems 68
Ski sack* 212
Towing eye bolt 331
Wiper blades 316

Instrument cluster 22, 109, 363

Cleaning 270
Coolant temperature display 110
Illumination 109
Lamps in 274–278
Multifunction display 113
Outside temperature indicator 111
Selecting language 128

Instrument lighting 109
Instruments and controls see Cockpit

Activating automatic control 107
Deactivating automatic control 107
Delayed shut-off 132
Manual operation 107

Interior rear view mirror

Adjusting 38
Antiglare 149

Interior storage spaces 216

Armrest 219
Cup holder in front

of seat armrest 217

Cup holder in rear seat armrest 218
Glove box 216
Parcel net in

front passenger footwell 220

Storage compartment

in front of armrest 218

Jack 300
Jump starting 326

Index

Key dependency memory

Settings 135

Key positions in starter switch 31
Key, mechanical 305
Key, SmartKey

Battery check lamp 83
Checking the batteries 84
Factory setting 83
Global locking 83
Global unlocking 83
Loss of 85
Messages in display 293
Positions in starter switch 31
Remote control 82
Restoring to factory setting 83
Selective setting 83
Starting the engine

Automatic transmission* 44
Manual transmission 43

Turning off the engine 52

Unlocking the trunk lid 84
Unlocking with 30

Kickdown 147, 363
Kilometers/miles in speedometer 128
Km/h or mph in speedometer 128

Labels, identification 338
Lamp bulbs, exterior 310
Lamps, exterior Front 310
Light sensor 294
Messages in display 293–296
Rear 311

Lamps, indicator and warning

ABS 274
Battery (SmartKey) 83
Brakes 275
CHECK ENGINE 276
Engine diagnostics 276, 278
ESP 277
Fuel reserve 278

Instrument cluster 274–278
PASS. AIRBAG OFF 59, 279
Seat belts 278
SRS 55, 278
Turn signals 23

Language

Multifunction display 128
Setting 128

LATCH-type child seat anchors 69

Folding back 69

Layout of poly-V-belt drive 339
Leather upholstery Cleaning 271
License plate lamps

Messages in display 294
Replacing bulbs 311, 315

Light alloy wheels Cleaning 270
Technical data 343

Light sensor 294
Lighter see Cigarette lighter

381

Index

Lighting 102

Loading 209

Automatic headlamp mode 103
Combination switch 105
Daytime running lamp mode 104
Door entry lamps 108
Exterior lamp switch 102
Front fog lamps 105
High beams 106
Instrument cluster illumination 109
Instruments 109
Interior 107
Locator lighting 104
Low beam 102
Manual headlamp mode 103
Night security illumination 104
Parking lamps 102
Rear fog lamp 105
Settings (control system) 129
Trunk lamp 108

Limiting the gear range 144
Limp Home Mode 147

Instructions 214
Roof rack* 209
Ski sack* 209
Split rear bench seat* 212

Locator lighting 104

Setting 130
Lock button 363
Locking 50, 82

Automatic while driving 90
Centrally from inside 91
Fuel filler flap 249
Global, SmartKey 83
Separately the trunk 89
Vehicle in an emergency 306

Loss of keys 85
Loss of Service and

Warranty Information Booklet 337

Low beam headlamps

Messages in display 295
Replacing bulbs 310, 312

Lowering

Vehicle 321

Lubricants

Technical data 349

Main dimensions 347