2011 Mercedes-benz CL Class Owners Manual

E (drive program C on AMG vehicles) or S. Do not restrict the shift range.

Transmission positions B Park position

Do not shift the transmission into position P unless the vehicle is stationary. The parking lock should not be used as a brake when parking. In addition to engaging the parking lock, you must always apply the electric parking brake to secure the vehicle. In the event of a fault in the vehicle electronics, the transmission can be locked in position P. Have the vehicle electronics checked immediately at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

C Reverse

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

: Transmission position i The arrows in the transmission position

display show how and into which transmission positions you can change using the DIRECT SELECT lever.

! If the transmission position display in the

multifunction display is not working, you should pull away carefully to check whether

A Neutral

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

damage the drive train.

7 Drive

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

Gearshifting The automatic transmission shifts to the individual gears automatically when it is in transmission position D. This automatic gearshifting behavior is determined by: Ra shift range restriction, if selected Rthe selected drive program E/S or, on AMG vehicles, C/S/M (Y page 277)

Rthe position of the accelerator pedal Rthe road speed

Automatic transmission 277

Driving tips Kickdown Use kickdown for maximum acceleration. X Vehicles for USA except AMG vehicles:

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

X Vehicles for Canada except AMG

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

Rocking the vehicle free Rocking the vehicle free by repeatedly shifting back and forth between transmission positions D and R can help to free a vehicle that has become stuck in mud or snow. The engine management system of the vehicle limits shifting back and forth between transmission positions D and R to a maximum speed of 5 mph (9 km/h). To shift back and forth between transmission positions D and R, move the selector lever up and down beyond the pressure point.

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

Program selector button The program selector button influences: Rthe drive program Rthe AIRMATIC (Y page 304) or ABC (Y page 305) suspension settings

Rthe engine management

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Steering wheel paddle shifters

Program selector button

Program selector button on AMG vehicles E Economy C Comfort S Sport M Manual

Sporty driving style Manual gearshifting

Comfortable, economical driving

i For further information on "Automatic

drive program" (Y page 278).

AMG vehicles: only change from automatic drive program C or S to manual drive program M when the vehicle is stationary. X Press program selector button :

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

i The automatic transmission switches to automatic drive program E each time the engine is started (on AMG vehicles: drive program C).

: Left-hand steering wheel paddle shifter ; Right-hand steering wheel paddle shifter You can restrict or derestrict the shift range by using the steering wheel paddle shifter. You can change gear yourself by using the steering wheel paddle shifters in the manual drive program.

Automatic drive program Drive program E (drive program C on AMG vehicles) is characterized by the following: Rthe vehicle pulling away more gently in forward and reverse gears, unless the accelerator pedal is depressed fully

Rincreased sensitivity, which improves

driving stability on slippery road surfaces, for example

Rthe automatic transmission shifting up

sooner, which results in the vehicle being driven at lower engine speeds and the wheels being less likely to spin In drive program S, the automatic transmission shifts up later.

Shift ranges Introduction When the automatic transmission is in position D, it is possible to restrict or derestrict the shift range (Y page 278).

Automatic transmission 279

The shift range selected is shown in the multifunction display. The automatic transmission shifts only as far as the selected gear. Driving situations = You can use the engine's braking

effect.

5 To use the braking effect of the

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

4 To use the braking effect of the

engine on extremely steep downhill gradients and on long downhill stretches

Restricting the shift range X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The shift range is restricted.

i In order to prevent the engine from

overrevving, the automatic transmission does not shift down when the engine speed is too high.

i If the maximum engine speed for the shift

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

Derestricting the shift range X Pull the right-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The shift range is derestricted.

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

Selecting the ideal shift range X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

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

Manual drive program Switching on the manual drive program The manual drive program is only available for AMG vehicles. Manual drive program M is different from drive program S with regard to spontaneity, responsiveness and smoothness of gear changes. Manual drive program M can be selected using the program selector button. You can change gear using the steering wheel paddle shifters in manual drive program M if the transmission is in position D. The gear currently selected and engaged is shown in the multifunction display. X Press program selector button

(Y page 277) repeatedly until M appears in the multifunction display.

Upshifting ! In manual drive program M, the automatic

transmission does not shift up automatically even when the engine limiting speed for the current gear is reached. When the engine limiting speed is reached, the fuel supply is cut to prevent

280 Automatic transmission

the engine from overrevving. Always make sure that the engine speed does not reach the red area of the tachometer. There is otherwise a risk of engine damage.

X Pull the right-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter (Y page 278). The automatic transmission shifts up to the next gear.

Before the engine speed reaches the red area, you will see an upshift indicator in the multifunction display.

: Gear indicator ; Upshift indicator

Downshifting X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter (Y page 278). The automatic transmission shifts down to the next gear.

i If you brake the vehicle or stop without shifting down, the automatic transmission will shift down to a gear that will allow the vehicle to accelerate or pull away again. i For maximum acceleration, pull the left- hand steering wheel paddle shifter until the transmission selects the optimum gear for the current speed.

Kickdown i Kickdown is not possible in manual drive

program M.

Switching off the manual drive program X Press the program selector button (Y page 277) repeatedly until C or S appears in the multifunction display.

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Problems with the transmission Problem The acceleration ability is deteriorating. The transmission no longer changes gear.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The transmission is in emergency mode. It is only possible to shift into 2nd gear and reverse gear. X Stop the vehicle. X Shift the transmission to position P. X Switch off the engine. X Wait at least 10 seconds before restarting the engine. X Shift the transmission to position D or R.

If D is selected, the transmission shifts into 2nd gear; if R is selected, the transmission shifts into reverse gear.

X Have the transmission checked at a qualified specialist

workshop immediately.

Transfer case This section is only valid for vehicles with 4- wheel drive (4MATIC). Power is always transmitted to both axles. ! Performance tests may only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. The brake system or transfer case could otherwise be damaged. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for a performance test. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for this purpose.

! To prevent ESP® from intervening, the

ignition must be switched off (SmartKey or the Start/Stop button in position 0 or 1) if: Rthe electric parking brake is being tested

on a brake dynamometer.

Rthe vehicle is being towed with only one

axle raised (not permitted for vehicles with 4MATIC).

The brake system could otherwise be damaged.

Refueling Important safety notes G Warning Gasoline is highly flammable and poisonous. It burns violently and can cause serious personal injury. Never allow sparks, flames or smoking materials near gasoline. Turn off the engine before refueling. Whenever you are around gasoline, avoid inhaling fumes and any skin or clothing contact. Direct skin contact with fuels and the inhalation of fuel vapors are damaging to your health. G Warning Overfilling of the fuel tank may create pressure in the system which could cause a gas discharge. This could cause the gasoline to spray back out when removing the fuel pump nozzle, which could cause personal injury.

! Do not use diesel to refuel vehicles with a gasoline engine. Even small amounts of the

282 Refueling

wrong fuel result in damage to the fuel system and engine.

arrow next to the filling pump indicates the side of the vehicle.

! Do not switch on the ignition if you

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

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

i Only refuel with unleaded premium-grade gasoline with a specified minimum octane number of 91 (average value of 96 RON/ 86 MON). Usually you will find information about the fuel grade on the pump. If you cannot find the label on the gasoline pump, ask the gas station staff. You can find further information under "Fuel" (Y page 470), by consulting an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or visiting http://www.mbusa.com (USA only).

Refueling Fuel filler flap The fuel filler flap is unlocked or locked automatically when you open or close the vehicle with the key or using KEYLESS-GO. The fuel filler flap is located to the rear on the right. The position of the fuel filler cap is displayed in the instrument cluster 8. The

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

Opening X Switch off the engine. i When the engine is running and the fuel

filler flap is open, the ; engine diagnostics warning lamp may light up. For further information on warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster, see (Y page 380).

X Remove the SmartKey from the ignition

lock. KEYLESS-GO: open the driver's door. This returns the ignition to position 0, which corresponds to the SmartKey being removed. The driver's door can be closed again.

X Press the fuel filler flap in the direction of

arrow :. The fuel filler flap opens slightly.

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

and remove it.

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

Refueling 283

X Completely insert the filler neck of the fuel

pump nozzle into the tank and refuel. X Only fill the tank until the pump nozzle

switches off.

! Overfilling the fuel tank could damage the

fuel system.

Closing X Replace the fuel filler cap and turn it to the

right. The fuel filler cap audibly engages.

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

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

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions G Risk of explosion or fire The fuel line or the fuel tank is defective. X Turn the key to position 0(Y page 267) in the ignition lock

immediately and remove it.

The fuel filler flap cannot be opened.

X Do not restart the engine under any circumstances. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. The fuel filler flap is not unlocked. or The key batteries are discharged. X Unlock the vehicle (Y page 72). or X Unlock the vehicle using the mechanical key (Y page 75). The fuel filler flap is unlocked, but the opening mechanism is jammed. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

Parking Important safety notes G Warning! Do not park in areas where the hot exhaust system could come into contact with combustible materials. Combustible materials such as grass, hay or leaves could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire. Unintended vehicle movement could cause serious personal injury or damage to the vehicle or the vehicle drivetrain. To reduce such risks, always do the following before turning off the engine and leaving the vehicle: RKeep right foot on the brake pedal. REngage the electronic parking brake. RShift the automatic transmission into park

position P.

RSlowly release the brake pedal. RWhen parked on an incline, always turn the

front wheels towards the road curb.

RTurn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 0 and remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, or press the KEYLESS- GO start/stop button.

RTake the SmartKey with you and lock the

vehicle when leaving.

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

Parking 285

G Warning! Keep in mind that turning off the engine alone only will shift AUTOTRONIC into neutral position N automatically. Always shift AUTOTRONIC into park position P before turning off the engine. Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

i If you cannot turn off the engine as

described here, see "Emergency engine shutdown" (Y page 435).

Vehicles with automatic transmission X Apply the electric parking brake. X Shift the transmission to position P. Using the SmartKey X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the

ignition lock and remove it. The parking lock is activated.

i If you turn off the engine with the

SmartKey and then remove it from the ignition lock or open a front door, the automatic transmission switches to P automatically.

Using KEYLESS-GO X Press the Start/Stop button (Y page 267). When the driver's door is closed, the Start/ Stop button is in position 1. When the driver's door is opened, the Start/Stop button moves to position 0. This corresponds to removing the SmartKey.

i If you turn off the engine with the Start/ Stop button, the automatic transmission shifts to N. If you then open the driver's or front-passenger door, the automatic transmission shifts to P automatically. i In an emergency, you can turn off the engine while the vehicle is in motion by pressing and holding the Start/Stop button for three seconds. This function operates

independently of the ECO start/stop automatic engine switch-off function.

If you have started the engine with the Start/ Stop button and it cannot be switched off as described: X remove the Start/Stop button from the

ignition lock.

X insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock.

The engine stops. The ignition lock is in position 0.

Electric parking brake G Warning! When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Children could release the parking brake and/or shift the automatic transmission out of park position P, either of which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Releasing the electric parking brake manually X Switch on the ignition. X Pull handle :.

The red F indicator lamp (USA only) or the red ! indicator lamp (Canada only) in the instrument cluster goes out. The electric parking brake can only be released when the SmartKey in the ignition

286 Parking

lock is in position 1 or if the ignition is switched on using the Start/Stop button.

Releasing the electric parking brake automatically The electric parking brake is released automatically when the following conditions are simultaneously fulfilled: Rthe engine is running. Rthe automatic transmission is in position

D or R.

Rthe hood is closed. Ryour seat belt is fastened. Ryou depress the accelerator pedal. If the automatic transmission is in position R, the trunk lid must be closed. For the parking brake to be released automatically if your seat belt is not fastened, the following conditions must be fulfilled: Rthe driver's door is closed. Ryou shift out of P or you have previously

driven faster than 2 mph (3 km/h).

Engaging the electric parking brake manually X Push handle :.

The red F indicator lamp (USA only) or the red ! indicator lamp (Canada only) in the instrument cluster lights up.

i The electric parking brake can also be applied even if the SmartKey has been removed.

Engaging the electric parking brake automatically The electric parking brake is automatically applied if HOLD or DISTRONIC PLUS brakes the vehicle until it is stationary and at least one of the following conditions is fulfilled: Rthe engine is switched off. Rthe driver's door is open and the seat belt

is not fastened.

Rthe hood is released. Rthe trunk lid is opened while the automatic

transmission is in position R.

Rthe vehicle is stationary for a lengthy

period.

The red F indicator lamp (USA only) or the red ! indicator lamp (Canada only) in the instrument cluster lights up. i In addition to the electric parking brake,

P may also be engaged automatically.

Emergency braking with the electric parking brake The vehicle can also be braked during an emergency using the electric parking brake. X While driving, push handle : of the electric

parking brake (Y page 285).

i The vehicle is braked as long as you keep

the handle of the electric parking brake pressed. The longer the electric parking brake handle is depressed, the greater the braking force. During braking: Ra warning tone sounds. Rthe Release parking brake message appears.

Rred F indicator lamp (USA only) or red ! indicator lamp (Canada only) appears in the instrument cluster

When the vehicle has been braked to a standstill, the electric parking brake is engaged.

Parking up the vehicle If you leave the vehicle parked up for longer than four weeks, the battery may be damaged by exhaustive discharge. X Disconnect the battery or connect it to a

trickle charger.

i You can obtain information about trickle

chargers from a qualified specialist

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287

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

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

seek advice.

Driving tips General notes on driving Important safety notes G Warning! Please do not forget that your primary responsibility is to drive the vehicle. A driver’s attention to the road must always be his/her primary focus when driving. For your safety and the safety of others, we recommend that you pull over to a safe location and stop before placing or taking a telephone call. If you choose to use the telephone17 while driving, please use the hands-free device and only use the telephone when road, weather and traffic conditions permit. Some jurisdictions prohibit the driver from using a mobile telephone while driving a vehicle. Only operate the COMAND17 (Cockpit Management and Data System) if road, weather and traffic conditions permit. Otherwise, you may not be able to observe traffic conditions and could endanger yourself and others. Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of 44 feet (approximately 14 m) every second.

Drive sensibly – save fuel To save fuel, observe the following notes: X Keep tires at the recommended inflation

pressures.

X Remove unnecessary cargo. X Remove the roof rack when not in use. X Maintain a low engine speed until the

engine is warm.

X Avoid frequent acceleration and

deceleration.

X Have all maintenance work performed at

the service intervals specified in the Service Booklet or indicated by the service interval indicator.

Fuel consumption is also increased by driving in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic, on short trips and in mountainous areas.

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

Pedals G Warning Make sure absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure that the pedals still have sufficient clearance.

17 Observe all legal requirements.

288 Driving tips

During sudden driving or braking maneuvers, the objects could get caught between the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury.

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

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

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

Mercedes-Benz service requirements. Details can be found in the Service Booklet.

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

Downhill gradients ! On long and steep gradients, you must

reduce the cargo on the brakes by shifting to a lower gear in good time. This allows you to take advantage of engine braking and helps you to avoid overheating the brakes and wearing them out excessively. When you take advantage of engine braking, a drive wheel may not turn for some time, e.g. on a slippery road surface. This could cause damage to the drive train. Such damage is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz warranty.

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

If the brakes have been subjected to a heavy cargo, do not stop the vehicle immediately,

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289

but drive on for a short while. This allows the airflow to cool the brakes more quickly.

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

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

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

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

Rmaintain a greater distance to the vehicle

ahead and drive with particular care.

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

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

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

All checks and maintenance work on the brake system must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Only install brake pads and use brake fluid recommended by Mercedes-Benz. G Warning If other than recommended brake pads are installed, or other than recommended brake fluid is used, the braking properties of the vehicle can be degraded to an extent that safe braking is substantially impaired. This could result in an accident.

! Vehicles with 4MATIC: a function or

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

! Vehicles with 4MATIC: as the ESP®

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

290 Driving tips

! Vehicles with 4MATIC: as the ESP®

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

brake dynamometer.

Ryou intend to have the vehicle towed with

one of the axles raised.

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

If your brake system is only subjected to moderate loads, you should regularly test your brake system's function by forcefully depressing the brake pedal when driving at high speed. This also improves the brake pads' friction. G Warning Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

A description of Brake Assist (BAS) can be found on (Y page 62) or of BAS PLUS on (Y page 62).

High-performance brake system for AMG vehicles The high-performance brake system is only installed on the CL 63 AMG and CL 65 AMG. G Warning New vehicle brake pads and discs, and replacement brake pads and discs may take several hundred miles of driving until they provide optimum braking efficiency. Until that time, you may need to use increased brake pedal pressure while braking. Please be aware of this and adjust your driving and braking accordingly during this break-in period. Excessive high-demand braking will cause correspondingly high brake wear. Please be attentive to the brake warning lamp in the instrument cluster and brake condition

messages in the multifunction display. Especially for high performance driving, it is important to maintain and have the brake system checked regularly.

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

temperature and humidity

The wear of individual components of the brake system, such as the brake pads/linings or brake discs, depends on the individual driving style and operating conditions.

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

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

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

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291

Winter driving General information Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, at the onset of winter. Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 291).

If the vehicle threatens to skid or cannot be stopped when moving at low speed: X Shift the transmission to position N. i For more information on driving with

snow chains, see (Y page 440). G Warning Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

Slippery road surfaces G Warning If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow, make sure snow is kept clear of the exhaust pipe and from around the vehicle with the engine running. Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle interior resulting in unconsciousness and death. To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, open a window slightly on the side of the vehicle not facing the wind. G Warning! The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. Indicated temperatures just above the freezing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice. The road may still be icy, especially in wooded areas or on bridges. G Warning On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control.

You should drive particularly carefully on slippery road surfaces. Avoid sudden acceleration, steering and braking maneuvers. Do not use cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS.

Driving abroad An extensive Mercedes-Benz Service network is also available in other countries. The Service Hotline's current telephone numbers for use when you are abroad are to be found in the "Service24h" section of the Service Booklet.

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

292 Driving systems

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

speed.

X Briefly press the cruise control lever

up : or down ; to the pressure point. X Remove your foot from the accelerator

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

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

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ?.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

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

remain responsible for the vehicle's speed and for safe brake operation. Only use the cruise control if the road, traffic, and weather conditions make it advisable to travel at a constant speed. RThe use of the cruise control can be

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

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

RDeactivate the cruise control when driving

in fog.

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

Cruise control lever

: To store the current speed or a higher

speed

; To store the current speed or a lower

speed

= To deactivate cruise control ? To store the current speed or to call up

the last stored speed

When you activate cruise control, the stored speed is shown in the multifunction display for five seconds and is indicated in the speedometer by a triangle. The speedometer dial lights up between the set speed and the maximum speed.

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

X Press the cruise control lever to the

pressure point, up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed.

X Keep the cruise control lever pressed until

the desired speed is reached.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The new speed is stored.

i Cruise control is not deactivated if you

depress the accelerator pedal. For example, if you accelerate briefly to overtake, cruise control adjusts the vehicle's speed to the last speed stored after you have finished overtaking.

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

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

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

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

forwards =.

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

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

switch off the engine.

DISTRONIC PLUS Important safety notes DISTRONIC PLUS regulates the speed and automatically helps you maintain the distance to the vehicle detected in front. It brakes automatically in order to avoid exceeding the set speed. On long and steep downhill gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden, you must select shift range 1, 2 or 3 in good time. By doing so, you will make use of the braking effect of the engine, which relieves the load on the brake system and prevents the brakes from overheating and wearing too quickly. If a slower-moving vehicle is detected in front, DISTRONIC PLUS causes your vehicle to brake and maintain a preset distance to the vehicle in front. G Warning! The DISTRONIC PLUS requires familiarity with its operational characteristics. We strongly

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recommend that you review the following information carefully before operating the system. G Warning When DISTRONIC brakes, the brake pedal is pulled back (i.e. operated automatically). The area around the pedal must not be blocked by obstacles: Rdo not place any objects in the footwell. Rensure that floormats and carpets are fixed securely. In particular, do not place several floormats on top of one another.

Rdo not place your foot under the brake

pedal, as it could become trapped.

Non-compliance could lead you to cause an accident in which you and/or others could be seriously injured. G Warning! The DISTRONIC PLUS is a convenience system. Its speed adjustment reduction capability is intended to make cruise control more effective and usable when traffic speeds vary. It is not however, intended to, nor does it, replace the need for extreme care. The responsibility for the vehicle's speed, distance to the preceding vehicle and, most importantly, brake operation to ensure a safe stopping distance, always remains with the driver. The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take street and traffic conditions into account. Complex driving situations are not always fully recognized by the DISTRONIC PLUS. This could result in wrong or missing distance warnings.

If you want DISTRONIC PLUS to assist you, the radar sensor system must be activated (Y page 342) and operational. If there is no vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS operates in the same way as cruise control in the speed range between 20 mph (Canada: 30 km/h) and 120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). If there is a

vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS is operational in the speed range between 0 mph (Canada: 0 km/h) and 120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). Do not use DISTRONIC PLUS while driving on roads with steep gradients. As DISTRONIC PLUS emits radar waves, it can simulate radar detectors used by police authorities. You can refer to the applicable chapter in the Operator's Manual if there is any question concerning this. i USA only:

This device has been approved by the FCC as a “Vehicular Radar System”. The radar sensor is intended for use in an automotive radar system only. Removal, tampering, or altering of the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted by the FCC. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. G Warning! The DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control is not a substitute for active driving involvement. It does not react to pedestrians or on stationary objects, nor does it recognize or predict the curvature and lane layout or the movement of preceding vehicles. The DISTRONIC PLUS can only apply a maximum of 40% of the vehicle's braking power. The DISTRONIC PLUS may not detect narrow vehicles possibly driving in front of you, such as motorcycles and vehicles driving in an offset formation. It is the driver's responsibility at all times to be attentive to the road, weather and traffic conditions. Additionally, the driver must provide the steering, braking and other driving inputs necessary to remain in control of the vehicle. High-frequency sources such as toll stations, speed measuring systems etc. can cause the

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DISTRONIC PLUS system to temporarily cease functioning. G Warning! The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take road and traffic conditions into account. Only use the DISTRONIC PLUS if the road, weather and traffic conditions make it advisable to travel at a constant speed. G Warning! Use of the DISTRONIC PLUS can be dangerous on slippery roads. Rapid changes in tire traction can result in wheel spin and loss of control. The DISTRONIC PLUS does not function in adverse sight and distance conditions. Do not use the DISTRONIC PLUS during conditions of fog, heavy rain, snow or sleet. G Warning! The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take weather conditions into account. Switch off the DISTRONIC PLUS or do not switch it on if: Rroads are slippery or covered with snow or

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

Rthe DISTRONIC PLUS system sensor covers

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

Always pay attention to surrounding traffic conditions even while the DISTRONIC PLUS is switched on. Otherwise, you may not be able to recognize dangerous situations until it is too late. This could cause an accident in which you and/or others could be injured. G Warning! The "Resume" function should only be operated if the driver is fully aware of the previously set speed and wishes to resume this particular preset speed.

G Warning Your undivided attention to street and traffic conditions is necessary at all times whether DISTRONIC PLUS is active or not. The use of DISTRONIC PLUS can be dangerous on winding roads or in heavy traffic because conditions do not allow safe driving at a constant speed. DISTRONIC PLUS does not react to stationary objects on the road (for example, a vehicle stopped in traffic or an abandoned vehicle). DISTRONIC PLUS likewise does not react to oncoming vehicles. Deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS: Rwhen changing to the right lane, if the

vehicles in the left lane are driving slower

Rwhen driving into a filter lane or an

expressway exit

Rin complex driving situations, for example

at roadworks on an expressway

In these situations DISTRONIC PLUS will maintain the set speed if it is not deactivated. DISTRONIC PLUS is intended only for maintaining a set speed and a set distance from the objects moving in front of the vehicle. G Warning! An intermittent warning sounds and the distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster is illuminated if the DISTRONIC PLUS system calculates that the distance to the vehicle ahead and your vehicle's current speed indicate that the DISTRONIC PLUS will not be capable of slowing the vehicle sufficiently to maintain the preset following distance, which creates a danger of a collision. Immediately brake the vehicle to increase your distance to the preceding vehicle. The warning sound is intended as a final caution in which you should intercede with your own braking inputs to avoid a potentially dangerous situation. Do not wait for the operation of the warning signal to intercede

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? To store the current speed or to call up

the last stored speed

A To set the specified minimum distance

Activating DISTRONIC PLUS, storing and maintaining the current speed Important safety notes G Warning! When the DISTRONIC PLUS is switched on, the vehicle can be braked. You should therefore switch off the DISTRONIC PLUS if the vehicle must be towed.

You can activate DISTRONIC PLUS under the following circumstances: Rthe engine has been started and you have

been driving for up to two minutes

Ryour vehicle is not secured by the electric

parking brake

RESP® is activated Rthe transmission is in position D Rthe hood is closed Rthe driver's door is closed and you shift the transmission from position P to D or your seat belt is fastened

Rthe front-passenger door is closed Rthe vehicle has not skidded Activating while driving When driving at speeds below 20 mph (30 km/h), you can only activate DISTRONIC PLUS if the vehicle in front has been detected and is shown in the multifunction display. If the vehicle in front is not shown in the multifunction display and is no longer detected, because it has changed lanes, for example, DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated and a tone sounds.

with your own braking. This will result in potentially dangerous emergency braking which will not always result in an impact being avoided. Tailgating increases the risk of an accident. G Warning DISTRONIC PLUS brakes your vehicle with a maximum deceleration of 13 ft/s(4 m/s2). This corresponds to approximately 40% of your vehicle's maximum possible braking power. You must apply the brakes yourself to avoid a collision. DISTRONIC PLUS brakes the vehicle to restore the set distance to the vehicle in front or to restore the set speed. G Warning! If you do not receive visual or acoustic warning signals during a critical traffic situation, DISTRONIC PLUS has either not recognized the collision risk, has been deactivated or is malfunctioning. Remember, whether or not DISTRONIC PLUS is operating, it is ultimately always the drivers responsibility to apply the brakes in order to control the vehicle and avoid a collision.

Cruise control lever

: To store the current speed or a higher

speed

; To store the current speed or a lower

speed

= To deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS

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X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards you ? or press it up : or down ; to the pressure point. DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.

X Keep the cruise control lever pressed

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

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

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

Activating when driving towards a stationary vehicle If the vehicle in front of you is stationary, you can only activate DISTRONIC PLUS once your vehicle is stationary as well. X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ?. DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.

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

X Keep the cruise control lever pressed

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

i You can use the cruise control lever to set

the stored speed and the control on the cruise control lever to set the specified minimum distance (Y page 299).

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

your foot from the brake pedal.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ?.

or X Accelerate briefly.

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

Driving If there is no vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS operates in the same way as cruise control. If a slower-moving vehicle is detected in front, DISTRONIC PLUS causes your vehicle to brake and maintain a preset distance to the vehicle in front. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a faster-moving vehicle in front, it increases the driving speed, but only up to the desired speed you have stored. G Warning! When you step on the brake pedal, you switch off the DISTRONIC PLUS except when the vehicle is at a standstill. The DISTRONIC PLUS will no longer brake your vehicle. You are always responsible for maintaining a distance from other vehicles, observing road speeds and braking well in advance.

Changing lanes If you wish to change to the passing lane (in left-hand-drive vehicles, the passing lane is the left-hand lane), DISTRONIC PLUS supports you if: Ryou are driving above 40 mph (60 km/h) RDISTRONIC PLUS is maintaining the

distance to a vehicle in front

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

of collision

If these conditions are met, your vehicle is accelerated. Acceleration will be interrupted

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

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

cruise control lever.

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

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

Rthe electrical system in the engine

compartment, the battery or the fuses are tampered with.

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

If DISTRONIC PLUS detects that the vehicle in front is stopping, it brakes your vehicle until it is stationary.

Once your vehicle is stationary, it remains stationary and you do not need to depress the brake. i After a time, the electric parking brake

secures the vehicle and relieves the service brake.

i Depending on the specified minimum

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

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

X Press the cruise control lever to the

pressure point, up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed.

X Keep the cruise control lever pressed until

the desired speed is reached.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The new speed is stored. DISTRONIC PLUS is activated and adjusts the vehicle's speed to the new speed stored.

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

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

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

Storing the current speed or calling up a stored speed G Warning The set speed stored in memory should only be set again if prevailing road conditions and