2006 Mercedes-benz E Class Wagon Owners Manual

tion display: 앫 Engine oil level

ok

앫 Add 1.0 Qt.

to reach max. oil level (Canada: 1.0 Liter)

앫 Add 1.5 Qts.

to reach max. oil level (Canada: 1.5 Liters)

앫 Add 2.0 Qts.

to reach max. oil level (Canada: 2.0 Liters)

Operation Engine compartment

If you want to interrupt the checking procedure, press button k or j on the multifunction steering wheel.

왘 If necessary, add engine oil. For adding engine oil, see (컄 page 319). For more information on engine oil, see the “Technical data” section (컄 page 482) and (컄 page 485).

Other display messages If the SmartKey or KEYLESS-GO start/stop button* is not in position 2, the following message will appear:

Switch ignition on to check engine oil level 왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 36). If you see the message:

Observe waiting period

컄컄

317

Operation Engine compartment

컄컄

왘 If engine is at operating temperature, wait 5 minutes before repeating check procedure.

If there is excess engine oil with the engine at operating temperature, the following message will appear:

왘 If engine is not at operating tempera-

ture yet, wait 30 minutes before repeating check procedure.

If you see the message:

Engine oil level Not when engine on 왘 Turn off the engine. 왘 If the engine is at operating tempera- ture, wait 5 minutes before checking oil.

왘 If the engine is not at operating temper-

ature yet, you must wait 30 minutes before checking oil.

Engine oil level Reduce oil level 왘 Have excess oil siphoned or drained

off. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Excess oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

For more information on messages in the multifunction display concerning engine oil, see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 404).

Checking engine oil level with the oil dipstick (E 350 only) When checking the oil level 앫 the vehicle must be parked on level

ground

앫 with the engine at operating tempera- ture, the vehicle must have been sta- tionary for at least 5 minutes with the engine turned off

앫 with the engine not at operating tem- perature yet, the vehicle must have been stationary for at least 30 minutes with the engine turned off

318

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Pull out oil dipstick 1 again after

Adding engine oil

approximately 3 seconds to obtain ac- curate reading. The oil level is correct when it is be- tween the lower (min) mark 3 and upper (max) mark 2 of oil dipstick 1.

The filling quantity between the upper and lower marks on the oil dipstick is approximately 2.1 US qt. (2.0 l).

왘 If necessary, add engine oil.

For adding engine oil, see “Adding en- gine oil”.

For more information on engine oil, see “Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.” (컄 page 482). For more information on messages in the multifunction display concerning engine oil, see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 383).

Only use approved engine oils and oil filters required for vehicles with Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) or FSS PLUS (Canada vehicles). For a listing of approved engine oils and oil filters, refer to the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet in your ve- hicle literature portfolio, or contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Using engine oils and oil filters of spec- ification other than those expressly required for the Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) or FSS PLUS (Canada vehicles), or changing of oil and oil filter at change intervals longer than those called for by the Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) or FSS PLUS (Canada vehicles) will result in engine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

319

1 Oil dipstick 2 Upper (max) mark 3 Lower (min) mark To check the engine oil level with the oil dipstick, do the following: 왘 Open the hood (컄 page 315). 왘 Pull out oil dipstick 1. 왘 Wipe oil dipstick 1 clean. 왘 Fully insert oil dipstick 1 into the

dipstick guide tube.

Operation Engine compartment

E 350

E 500

320

Transmission fluid level

The transmission fluid level does not need to be checked. If you notice transmission fluid loss or gear shifting malfunctions, have an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center check the transmission.

왘 Unscrew filler cap 1 from filler neck. 왘 Add engine oil as required. Be careful

not to overfill with oil.

Be careful not to spill any oil when adding. Avoid environmental damage caused by oil entering the ground or water.

Excess oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

왘 Screw filler cap 1 back on filler neck. For more information on engine oil, see the “Technical data” section (컄 page 482) and (컄 page 485).

Coolant level

The engine coolant is a mixture of water and anticorrosion/antifreeze. To check the coolant level, the vehicle must be parked on level ground and the engine must be cool. The coolant expansion tank is located on the driver’s side of the engine compart- ment.

Warning!

In order to avoid any possibly serious burns: 앫 Use extreme caution when opening the hood if there are any signs of steam or coolant leaking from the cooling system, or if the coolant temperature gauge indi- cates that the coolant is overheated.

앫 Do not remove pressure cap on coolant

reservoir if coolant temperature is above 158°F (70°C). Allow engine to cool down before removing cap. The coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is under pressure.

앫 Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine

parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene gly- col which may burn if it comes into con- tact with hot engine parts.

앫 Using a rag, slowly open the cap approx- imately 1/2 turn to relieve excess pres- sure. If opened immediately, scalding hot fluid and steam will be blown out un- der pressure.

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Continue turning the cap to the left and

remove it. The coolant level is correct if the level: 앫 for cold coolant: reaches the black

top part of the reservoir

앫 for warm coolant: is approximately

0.6 in (1.5 cm) higher 왘 Add coolant as required. 왘 Replace and tighten cap. For more information on coolant, see the “Technical data” section (컄 page 487).

1 Coolant expansion tank 왘 Using a rag, turn the cap slowly approx-

imately one half turn to the left to re- lease any excess pressure.

321

Operation Engine compartment

Batteries

Your vehicle is equipped with two batteries: 앫 Main battery (located in the cargo

compartment).

앫 Auxiliary battery (located in the engine

compartment).

These batteries should always be suffi- ciently charged in order to achieve their rated service life. Refer to Maintenance Booklet for battery maintenance intervals. If you use your vehicle mostly for short-dis- tance trips, you will need to have the bat- tery charge checked more frequently.

322

E Wear eye protection.

C Keep children away.

F Follow the instructions in this

Operator’s Manual.

Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Recycling of batteries is the preferred method of disposal. Many states require sellers of batteries to accept old batteries for recycling.

When replacing batteries, always use bat- teries approved by Mercedes-Benz. If you do not intend to operate your vehicle for an extended period of time, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center about steps you need to observe.

G Observe all safety instructions

and precautions when handling automotive batteries.

A Risk of explosion

D Keep flames or sparks away

from battery. Do not smoke.

B Battery acid is caustic. Do not

allow it to come into contact with skin, eyes or clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with clean water and seek medical help if necessary.

During all seasons, add MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” to water. Premix the windshield washer fluid in a suitable container. 왘 Refill the reservoir with MB Windshield

Washer Concentrate and water (or commercially available premixed wind- shield washer solvent/antifreeze, de- pending on ambient temperatures). Always use washer solvent/antifreeze where temperatures may fall below freezing point. Failure to do so could re- sult in damage to the washer sys- tem/reservoir.

Operation Engine compartment

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.

Only use washer fluid which is suitable for plastic lenses. Improper washer fluid can damage the plastic lenses of the headlamps.

For more information, see “Windshield and headlamp washer fluid mixing ratio” (컄 page 490).

Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system*

The windshield washer reservoir is located in the engine compartment.

1 Washer fluid reservoir Fluid for the windshield washer system and the headlamp cleaning system is supplied from the windshield washer reservoir. It has a capacity of: 앫 4.8 US qt (4.5 l) in vehicles without

headlamp cleaning system

앫 7.4 US qt (7.0 l) in vehicles with head-

lamp cleaning system

323

Operation Tires and wheels

See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for information on tested and recommend- ed rims and tires for summer and winter operation. They can also offer advice con- cerning tire service and purchase.

Warning!

Replace rims or tires with the same designa- tion, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further informa- tion. If incorrectly sized rims and tires are mounted: 앫 The wheel brakes or suspension compo-

nents can be damaged.

앫 The correct operating clearance of the wheels and the tires are no longer guar- anteed.

324

Warning!

Important guidelines

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

When replacing rims, only use Genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the particular rim type. Failure to do so can re- sult in the bolts loosening and possibly an accident.

Retreaded tires are not tested or recom- mended by Mercedes-Benz, since previous damage cannot always be recognized on retreads. Mercedes-Benz can therefore not assure the operating safety of the vehicle when such tires are used.

앫 Only use sets of tires and rims of the

same type and make.

앫 Tires must be of the correct size for the

rim.

앫 Break in new tires for approximately

60 miles (100 km) at moderate speeds.

앫 Regularly check the tires and rims for

damage. Dented or bent rims can cause tire inflation pressure loss and damage to the tire beads.

앫 If vehicle is heavily loaded, check tire

inflation pressure and correct as required.

앫 Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths under 1/8 in (3 mm).

앫 When replacing individual tires, you should mount new tires on the front wheels first (on vehicles with same-sized wheels all around).

Operation Tires and wheels

Tire care and maintenance

Warning!

Regularly check the tires for damage. Dam- aged tires can cause tire inflation pressure loss. As a result, you could lose control of your vehicle.

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. For more informa- tion on checking tire inflation pressure, see “Recommended tire inflation pres- sure” (컄 page 333).

Tire inspection Every time you check your tire inflation pressure, you should also inspect your tires for the following: 앫 excessive treadwear (컄 page 326) 앫 cord or fabric showing through the

tire’s rubber

Life of tire The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying factors including but not limited to: 앫 Driving style 앫 Tire inflation pressure 앫 Distance driven

앫 bumps, bulges, cuts, cracks or splits in

the tread or side of the tire

Warning!

Tires and spare tire should be replaced after 6 years, regardless of the remaining tread.

Replace the tire if you find any of the above conditions. Make sure you also inspect the spare tire periodically for condition and inflation. Spare tires will age and become worn over time even if never used, and thus should be inspected and replaced when necessary.

325

Operation Tires and wheels

Tread depth Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths under 1⁄8 in (3 mm). Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These indicators are located in six places on the tread circumference and become visible at a tread depth of approx- imately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), at which point the tire is considered worn and should be replaced. Recommended minimum tire tread depth: 앫 Summer tires 1/8 in (3 mm) 앫 Winter tires 1/6 in (4 mm)

Warning!

Although the applicable federal motor safety laws consider a tire to be worn when the treadwear indicators (TWI) become visible at approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), we recom- mend that you do not allow your tires

326

to wear down to that level. As tread depth approaches 1/8 in (3 mm), the adhesion properties on a wet road are sharply re- duced.

Depending upon the weather and/or road surface (conditions), the tire traction varies widely.

Storing tires

Keep unmounted tires in a cool, dry place with as little exposure to light as possible. Protect tires from contact with oil, grease and gasoline.

Cleaning tires

Never use a round nozzle to power wash tires. The intense jet of water can result in damage to the tire. Always replace a damaged tire.

1 TWI (Tread Wear Indicator) The treadwear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread.

Operation Tires and wheels

Direction of rotation

Loading the vehicle

앫 The Certification label, also found on

Unidirectional tires offer added advan- tages, such as better hydroplaning perfor- mance. To benefit, however, you must make sure the tires rotate in the direction specified. An arrow on the sidewall indicates the intended direction of rotation (spinning) of the tire.

Spare wheels may be mounted against the direction of rotation (spinning) even with a unidirectional tire for temporary use only until the regular drive wheel has been repaired or replaced. Always observe and follow applicable tempo- rary use restrictions and speed limita- tions indicated on the spare wheel.

Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry. 앫 The Tire and Loading Information

placard (Example A) or the Vehicle Tire Information placard (Example B) can be found on the driver’s door B-pillar. This placard tells you important information about the number of people that can be in the vehicle and the total weight that can be carried in the vehicle. It also contains information on the proper size and recommended tire inflation pressures for the original equipment tires on your vehicle.

the driver’s door B-pillar tells you about the gross weight capacity of your vehi- cle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. The Certification label also tells you about the front and rear axle weight capacity, called the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). The GAWR is the total allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). Never exceed the GVWR or GAWR for either the front axle or rear axle.

327

Operation Tires and wheels

1 Driver’s door B-pillar Following is a discussion on how to work with the information contained on the two placards with regards to loading your vehi- cle.

328

Data shown on placard examples are for illustration purposes only. Load lim- it data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illus- trations below. Refer to placard on ve- hicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

Placard (Example A)

Tire and Loading Information

Warning!

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit or vehicle capacity weight as indicated on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

Your vehicle is equipped with either the Tire and Loading Information placard (Example A) or the Vehicle Tire Information placard (Example B).

1 Load limit information on the Tire and

Loading Information placard

The placard showing the load limit informa- tion is located on the driver’s door B-pillar. If your vehicle is equipped with the Tire and Loading Information placard (Example A), locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kilograms or XXX lbs.” on this placard. The combined weight of all occupants, cargo/luggage and trailer tongue load (if applicable) should never exceed the weight referenced in that statement.

Placard (Example B)

The placard showing the load limit informa- tion is located on the driver’s door B-pillar. If your vehicle is equipped with the Vehicle Tire Information placard (Example B), locate the heading “Vehicle Capacity Weight” on this placard. The combined weight of all occupants, cargo/luggage and trailer tongue (if applicable) should never exceed the weight listed next to vehicle capacity weight.

Seating capacity The seating capacity gives you important information on the number of occupants that can be in the vehicle. Observe front and rear seating capacity. Your vehicle is equipped with either placard Example A or placard Example B located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 328).

1 Load limit information on the Vehicle

Tire Information placard

Operation Tires and wheels

Data shown on placard examples are for illustration purposes only. Seating data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illus- trations below. Refer to placard on ve- hicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

Placard (Example A) 1 Seating capacity

329

Operation Tires and wheels

Placard (Example B) 1 Seating capacity

Steps for determining correct load limit The following steps have been developed as required of all manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”. Step 1 (Vehicles equipped with placard Example A) 왘 Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.

330

Step 1 (Vehicles equipped with placard Example B) 왘 Locate the heading “Vehicle Capacity

Weight” on your vehicle’s placard.

Step 2
왘 Determine the combined weight of the

driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

Step 3
왘 Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilo- grams or XXX lbs.

Step 4
왘 The resulting figure equals the avail-

able amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lbs. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400-750 (5 x150) = 650 lbs.).

Step 5
왘 Determine the combined weight of

luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4.

Step 6 (if applicable) 왘 If your vehicle will be towing a trailer,

load from your trailer will be trans- ferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle (컄 page 332).

The following table shows examples on how to calculate total and cargo load capacities with varying seating configura- tions and number and size of occupants. The following examples use a load limit of 1500 lbs. This is for illustration purposes only. Make sure you are using the actual load limit for your vehicle stated on the vehicle’s placard (컄 page 328).

Operation Tires and wheels

Example Combined

weight limit of occu- pants and cargo from placard 1500 lbs

1500 lbs

1500 lbs

Number of occupants (driver and passengers)

Seating configura- tion

Occupants weight

Combined weight of all occupants

Available cargo/luggage and trailer tongue weight (total load limit or vehicle capacity weight from plac- ard minus combined weight of all occupants)

front: 2

rear: 3

front: 1
rear: 2

front:1

Occupant 1: 150 lbs Occupant 2: 180 lbs Occupant 3: 160 lbs Occupant 4: 140 lbs Occupant 5: 120 lbs Occupant 1: 200 lbs Occupant 2: 190 lbs Occupant 3: 150 lbs Occupant 1: 150 lbs

750 lbs

1500 lbs - 750 lbs = 750 lbs

540 lbs

1500 lbs - 540 lbs = 960 lbs

150 lbs

1500 lbs - 150 lbs = 1350 lbs

The higher the weight of all occupants, the less cargo and luggage load capacity is available. For more information, see “Trailer tongue load” (컄 page 332).

331

Operation Tires and wheels

Certification label Even after careful determination of the combined weight of all occupants, cargo and the trailer tongue load (if applicable) (컄 page 332) as to not exceed the permis- sible load limit, you must make sure that your vehicle never exceeds the Gross Vehi- cle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. You can obtain the GVWR and GAWR from the Certification label. The Certification Label can be found on the driver’s door B-pillar, see “Technical data” (컄 page 468).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the trailer tongue load (컄 page 332) must never exceed the GVWR. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The to- tal allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). To assure that your vehicle does not ex- ceed the maximum permissible weight limits (GVWR and GAWR for front and rear axle), have the loaded vehicle (including driver, passengers and all cargo and, if ap- plicable, trailer fully loaded) weighed on a suitable commercial scale.

Trailer tongue load The tongue load of any trailer is an impor- tant weight to measure because it affects the load you can carry in your vehicle. If a trailer is towed, the tongue load must be added to the weight of all occupants riding and any cargo you are carrying in the vehicle. The tongue load typically is 10 percent of the trailer weight and every- thing loaded in it. Your Mercedes-Benz has been designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. Mercedes-Benz does not recom- mend trailer towing with your vehicle.

332

Recommended tire inflation pressure

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being over- heated.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

Your vehicle is equipped with either the Tire and Loading Information placard (Example A) or the Vehicle Tire Information placard (Example B) located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 328).

The tire inflation pressure should be checked regularly and should only be ad- justed on cold tires. The tires can be con- sidered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). Follow recommended cold tire inflation pressures listed on placard. Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best handling, tread life and riding comfort. In addition to the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar, also consult the fuel filler flap for any additional information pertaining to special driving situations. For more information, see “Important notes on tire inflation pressure” (컄 page 334).

Data shown on placard examples are for illustration purposes only. Tire data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustra- tions below. Refer to placard on vehicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

Operation Tires and wheels

Placard (Example A)

1 Tire and Loading Information placard with recommended cold tire inflation pressures

Placard (Example A) lists the recommend- ed cold tire inflation pressures for maxi- mum loaded vehicle weight. The tire inflation pressures listed apply to the tires installed as original equipment.

333

Operation Tires and wheels

Placard (Example B)

1 Vehicle Tire Information placard with

recommended cold tire inflation pressures

Placard (Example B) lists the recommend- ed cold tire inflation pressures for maxi- mum loaded vehicle weight. The tire inflation pressures listed apply to the tires installed as original equipment.

Placard (Example B) may list recommended cold tire inflation pressures for different vehicle loads.

334

Be sure to readjust the tire inflation pressure for normal driving speeds. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire inflation pressure. Some vehicles may have supplemental tire inflation pressure information for vehicle loads less than the maximum loaded vehi- cle condition. If such information is provid- ed, it can be found on the placard located on the inside of the fuel filler flap. Tire inflation pressure changes by approxi- mately 1.5 psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air temperature change. Keep this in mind when checking tire inflation pressure where the temperature is different from the outside temperature.

Important notes on tire inflation pressure

Warning!

If the tire inflation pressure repeatedly drops: 앫 Check the tires for punctures from

foreign objects.

앫 Check to see whether air is leaking from

the valves or from around the rim.

Tire temperature and tire inflation pressure are also increased while driving, depending on the driving speed and the tire load. If you will be driving your vehicle at high speeds of 100 mph (160 km/h) or higher, where it is legal and conditions allow, consult the placard on the inside of the fuel filler flap on how to adjust the cold tire in- flation pressure. If you do not adjust the tire inflation pressure, excessive heat can build up and result in sudden tire failure.

Checking tire inflation pressure

왘 Firmly press a tire gauge onto the

valve.

왘 Read tire inflation pressure on tire gauge and check against the recom- mended tire inflation pressure on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 328). If necessary, add air to achieve the recommended tire inflation pressure.

If you have overfilled the tire, release tire inflation pressure by pushing the metal stem of the valve with e.g. a tip of a pen. Then recheck the tire inflation pressure with the tire gauge.

왘 Install the valve cap. 왘 Repeat this procedure for each tire.

Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold. The tires can be considered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). If you check the tire inflation pressure when the tires are warm (the vehicle has been driven for several miles or sitting less than 3 hours), the reading will be approximately 4 psi (0.3 bar) higher than the cold reading. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the specified cold tire in- flation pressure. Otherwise, the tire will be underinflated.

Checking tire inflation pressure manually Follow the steps below to achieve correct tire inflation pressure: 왘 Remove the cap from the valve on one

tire.

Operation Tires and wheels

Checking tire pressure electronically with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System* (TPMS*), (USA only)

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System* (TPMS*) is equipped with a combina- tion low tire pressure/TPMS malfunc- tion telltale in the instrument cluster (컄 page 25). Depending on how the telltale illuminates, it indicates a low tire pressure condition or a malfunction in the TPMS system itself: 앫 If the telltale illuminates continu- ously, one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. There is no malfunction in the TPMS.

앫 If the telltale flashes for 60 seconds

and then stays illuminated, the TPMS system itself is not operating properly.

335

Operation Tires and wheels

The TPMS only functions on wheels that are equipped with the proper electronic sensors. It monitors the tire inflation pres- sure, as selected by the driver, in all four tires. A warning is issued to alert you to a decrease in pressure in one or more of the tires.

Warning!

The TPMS does not indicate a warning for wrongly selected inflation pressures. Always adjust tire inflation pressure according to the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or, if available, the supplemental tire pressure in- formation on the inside of the fuel filler flap.

The TPMS is not able to issue a warning due to a sudden dramatic loss of pressure (e.g. tire blowout caused by a foreign object). In this case bring the vehicle to a halt by care- fully applying the brakes and avoiding abrupt steering maneuvers.

336

Warning!

Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recom- mended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or the tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or the tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire infla- tion pressure for those tires). As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitor- ing system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accord- ingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illu- minates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significant- ly under-inflated tire causes the tire to over- heat and can lead to tire failure.

Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehi- cle’s handling and stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driv- er’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.

Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is com- bined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the mal- function indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended.

TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of in- compatible replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.

Operation Tires and wheels

If a condition causing the TPMS to mal- function develops, it may take up to 10 minutes for the system to signal a malfunction using the TPMS telltale flashing and illumination sequence. The telltale extinguishes after a few minutes driving if the malfunction has been corrected.

Operating radio transmission equip- ment (e.g. wireless headsets, two-way radios) in or near the vehicle could cause the TPMS to malfunction.

Reactivating the TPMS* The TPMS must be reactivated when you have adjusted the tire inflation pressure to a new level (e.g. because of different load or driving conditions). The TPMS is then recalibrated to the current tire inflation pressures.

Warning!

It is the driver’s responsibility to calibrate the TPMS on the recommended cold infla- tion pressure. Underinflated tires affect the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You might loose control over the vehicle.

왘 Using the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 328) or, if avail- able, the supplemental tire pressure information on the inside of the fuel fill- er flap (컄 page 312), make sure the tire inflation pressure of all four tires is cor- rect.

컄컄

337

Operation Tires and wheels

컄컄

Reactivate the TPMS after adjusting the tire inflation pressure to the infla- tion pressure recommended for the vehicle operating condition. Tire pres- sure should only be adjusted on cold tires. Observe the recommended tire inflation pressure on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 328). Some vehicles may have supplemental tire pressure information for driving at high speeds (컄 page 334) or for vehicle loads less than the maximum loaded vehicle condition. If such information is provided, it can be found on the inside of the fuel filler flap.

왘 Press button è or ÿ on the mul-

왘 Press the æ button.

tifunction steering wheel repeatedly until the standard display menu ap- pears in the multifunction display (컄 page 155).

왘 Press the j or k button repeat- edly until you see the flowing message: Tire pressure monitor active Reactivation possible: R-button

왘 Press the reset button.

The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Check current tire pressure?

The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Tire pres. monitor reactivated After driving a few minutes the system verifies that the current tire inflation pressures are within the system’s specified range. Afterwards the current tire inflation pressures are accepted as reference pressures and then moni- tored.

If you wish to cancel activation: 왘 Press the ç button.

338

Operation Tires and wheels

Overinflated tire inflation pressure Overinflated tires can: 앫 adversely affect handling

characteristics

앫 cause uneven tire wear 앫 be more prone to damage from road

hazards

앫 adversely affect ride comfort 앫 increase stopping distance

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

Potential problems associated with underinflated and overinflated tires

Underinflated tire inflation pressure Underinflated tires can: 앫 cause excessive and uneven tire wear 앫 adversely affect fuel economy 앫 lead to tire failure from being

overheated

앫 adversely affect handling

characteristics

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

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

339

Operation Tires and wheels

MOExtended system*

Tire labeling

Besides tire name (sales designation) and manufacturer name, a number of markings can be found on a tire. Following are some explanations for the markings on your vehicle’s tires:

The MOExtended system allows you to continue driving your vehicle even if there is a total loss of pressure in one or more tires. You may only use the MOExtended system with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System* (TPMS*) (컄 page 335). For information on driving in case of pres- sure loss in one or more tires (emergency mode), see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 451).

340

1 Uniform Quality Grading Standards

(컄 page 348)

2 DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)

(컄 page 345)

3 Maximum tire load (컄 page 346) 4 Maximum tire inflation pressure

(컄 page 347) 5 Manufacturer 6 Tire ply material (컄 page 350) 7 Tire size designation, load and speed

rating (컄 page 341)

8 Load identification (컄 page 344) 9 Tire name

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are specific to each vehi- cle and may vary from data shown in above illustration. For more information, see “Rims and tires” (컄 page 472).

Tire size designation, load and speed rating

1 Tire width 2 Aspect ratio in % 3 Radial tire code 4 Rim diameter 5 Tire load rating 6 Tire speed rating

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are specific to each vehi- cle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

General: Depending on the design standards used, the tire size molded into the sidewall may have no letter or a letter preceding the tire size designation. No letter preceding the size designation (as illustrated above): Passenger car tire based on European design standards. Letter “P” preceding the size designation: Passenger car tire based on U.S. design standards. Letter “LT” preceding the size designation: Light Truck tire based on U.S. design standards. Letter “T” preceding the size designation: Temporary spare tires which are high pressure compact spares designed for temporary emergency use only.

Operation Tires and wheels

Tire width The tire width 1 (컄 page 341) indicates the nominal tire width in mm.

Aspect ratio The aspect ratio 2 (컄 page 341) is the dimensional relationship between tire section height and section width and is expressed in percentage. The aspect ratio is arrived at by dividing section height by section width.

Tire code The tire code 3 (컄 page 341) indicates the tire construction type. The “R” stands for radial tire type. Letter “D” means diagonal or bias ply construction; letter “B” means belted-bias ply construction. At the tire manufacturer’s option, any tire with a speed capability above 149 mph (240 km/h) can include a “ZR” in the size designation (for example: 245/40 ZR 18). For additional information, see “Tire speed rating” (컄 page 343).

341

For additional information on tire load rating, see “Load identification” (컄 page 344).

Tire load rating 5 (컄 page 341) and Tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 341) are also referred to as “service descrip- tion”.

Operation Tires and wheels

Rim diameter The rim diameter 4 (컄 page 341) is the diameter of the bead seat, not the diameter of the rim edge. Rim diameter is indicated in inches (in).

Tire load rating The tire load rating 5 (컄 page 341) is a numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can support. For example, a load rating of 91 corre- sponds to a maximum load of 1356 lbs (615 kg) the tire is designed to support. See also “Maximum tire load” (컄 page 346) where the maximum load as- sociated with the load index is indicated in kilograms and lbs.

342

Warning!

The tire load rating must always be at least half of the GAWR (컄 page 351) of your vehi- cle. Otherwise, tire failure may be the result which may cause an accident and/or seri- ous personal injury to you or others.

Always replace rims and tires with the same designation, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part.

Warning!

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit or vehicle capacity weight as indicated on the placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

Tire speed rating The tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 341) indicates the approved maximum speed for the tire.

Warning!

Even when permitted by law, never operate a vehicle at speeds greater than the maximum speed rating of the tires.

Exceeding the maximum speed for which tires are rated can lead to sudden tire failure, causing loss of vehicle control and possibly resulting in an accident and/or personal injury and possible death, for you and for others.

Tire load rating 5 (컄 page 341) and Tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 341) are also referred to as “service descrip- tion”.

Summer tires

Index (Y) ZR

Speed rating up to 100 mph (160 km/h) up to 106 mph (170 km/h) up to 112 mph (180 km/h) up to 118 mph (190 km/h) up to 130 mph (210 km/h) up to 149 mph (240 km/h) up to 168 mph (270 km/h) up to 186 mph (300 km/h) above 186 mph (300 km/h) above 149 mph (240 km/h)

앫 At the tire manufacturer’s option, any

tire with a speed capability above 149 mph (240 km/h) can include a “ZR” in the size designation (for exam- ple: 245/40 ZR18). To determine the maximum speed capability of the tire, the service description for the tire must be referred to. The service description

Operation Tires and wheels

is comprised of the tire load rating 5 (컄 page 341) and the tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 341). If your tire includes “ZR” in the size designation and no service description 5 and 6 (컄 page 341) is given, the tire manufacturer must be consulted for the maximum speed ca- pability. If a service description 5 and 6 (컄 page 341) is given, the speed capa- bility is limited by the speed symbol in the service description. Example: 245/40 ZR18 97Y. In this example, “97Y” is the service description. The letter “Y” designates the speed rating and the speed capabil- ity of the tire is limited to 186 mph (300 km/h).

343

Operation Tires and wheels

앫 Any tire with a speed capability above 186 mph (300 km/h) must include a “ZR” in the size designation AND the service description must be placed in parenthesis. Example: 275/40 ZR 18 (99Y). The “(Y)” speed rating in paren- thesis designates the maximum speed capability of the tire as being above 186 mph (300 km/h). Consult the tire manufacturer for the actual maximum permissible speed of the tire.

344

All-season and winter tires

Load identification

Speed rating Index Q M+S1
up to 100 mph (160 km/h) T M+S1 up to 118 mph (190 km/h) H M+S1 up to 130 mph (210 km/h) V M+S1 up to 149 mph (240 km/h) 1 or M+S.for winter tires

Not all M+S rated tires provide special winter performance. Make sure the tires you use show M+S and the moun- tain/snowflake.marking on the tire sidewall. These tires meet specific snow traction performance require- ments of the Rubber Manufacturers As- sociation (RMA) and the Rubber Association of Canada (RAC) and have been designed specifically for use in snow conditions.

1 Load identification

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are specific to each vehi- cle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

In addition to tire load rating, special load information may be molded into the tire sidewall following the letter designating the tire speed rating 1 (컄 page 343). No specification given: absence of any text (like in above example) indicates a standard load (SL) tire. XL or Extra Load: designates an extra load (or reinforced) tire. Light Load: designates a light load tire. C, D, E: designates load range associated with the maximum load a tire can carry at a specified pressure.

DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)

U.S. tire regulations require each new tire manufacturer or tire retreader to mold a TIN into or onto a sidewall of each tire produced. The TIN is a unique identifier which facili- tates efforts by tire manufactures to notify purchasers in recall situations or other safety matters concerning tires and gives purchasers the means to easily identify such tires. The TIN is comprised of “Manufacturer’s identification mark”, “Tire size”, “Tire type code” and “Date of manufacture”.

Operation Tires and wheels

1 DOT 2 Manufacturer’s identification mark 3 Tire size 4 Tire type code (at the option of the tire

manufacturer)

5 Date of manufacture

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are specific to each vehi- cle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

345

Operation Tires and wheels

DOT (Department of Transportation) A tire branding symbol 1 (컄 page 345) which denotes the tire meets require- ments of the U.S. Department of Transpor- tation.

Tire type code The code 4 (컄 page 345) may, at the option of the manufacturer, be used as a descriptive code for identifying significant characteristics of the tire.

Maximum tire load

Manufacturer’s identification mark The manufacturer’s identification mark 2 (컄 page 345) denotes the tire manufacturer. New tires have a mark with two symbols. Retreaded tires have a mark with four sym- bols. For more information on retreaded tires, see (컄 page 324).

Tire size The code 3 (컄 page 345) indicates the tire size.

Date of manufacture The date of manufacture 5 (컄 page 345) identifies the week and year of manufac- ture. The first two figures identify the week, starting with “01” to represent the first full week of the calendar year. The second two figures represent the year. For example, “3202” represents the 32nd week of 2002.

1 Maximum tire load rating

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are specific to each vehi- cle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

The maximum tire load is the maximum weight the tires are designed to support.

346

Warning!

Maximum tire inflation pressure

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit or vehicle capacity weight as indicated on the placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

For more information on tire load rating (컄 page 342). For information on calculating total and cargo load capacities (컄 page 330).

1 Maximum permissible tire inflation

pressure

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are specific to each vehi- cle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

This is the maximum permissible tire inflation pressure for the tire.

Operation Tires and wheels

Always follow the recommended tire inflation pressure (컄 page 333) for proper tire inflation.

Warning!

Never exceed the max. tire inflation pressure. Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adverse- ly affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride com- fort, wear unevenly, increase stopping dis- tance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road de- bris, potholes etc.

347

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

Treadwear Traction Temperature 200

AA

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

Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rat- ing based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For ex- ample, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) 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 variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Operation Tires and wheels

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards (U.S. vehicles)

Tire manufacturers are required to grade tires based on three performance factors: treadwear, traction and temperature resis- tance.

1 Treadwear 2 Traction 3 Temperature resistance

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are specific to each vehi- cle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

348

Traction The traction grades, from highest to low- est, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades rep- resent 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 perfor- mance.

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.

Temperature The temperature grades are A (the high- est), B, and C, representing the tire’s resis- tance 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 tem- perature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and ex- cessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Mo- tor 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.

Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

The temperature grade for this tire is estab- lished for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underin- flation, or excessive loading, either sepa- rately or in combination, can cause excessive heat build-up and possible tire failure.

349

Operation Tires and wheels

Tire ply material

Tire and loading terminology

Accessory weight The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory-installed equipment (whether installed or not).

Air pressure The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in pounds per square inch (psi), or kilopascal (kPa) or bar.

Aspect ratio Dimensional relationship between tire section height and section width expressed in percentage.

1 Plies in sidewall 2 Plies under tread

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are specific to each vehi- cle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

This marking tells you about the type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread.

350

Bar Another metric unit for air pressure. There are 14.5038 pounds per square inch (psi) to 1 bar; there are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to 1 bar.

Bead The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.

Cold tire inflation pressure Tire inflation pressure when your vehicle has been sitting for at least 3 hours or driv- en no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).

Curb weight The weight of a motor vehicle with stan- dard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, and, if so equipped, air conditioning and additional optional equipment, but without passen- gers and cargo.

Operation Tires and wheels

DOT (Department of Transportation) A tire branding symbol which denotes the tire meets requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) The GAWR is the maximum permissible axle weight. The gross vehicle weight on each axle must never exceed the GAWR for the front and rear axle indicated on the certification label located on the driver’s door B-pillar.

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) The GVW comprises the weight of the vehicle including fuel, tools, spare wheel, installed accessories, passengers and cargo and, if applicable, trailer tongue load. The GWV must never exceed the GWVR indicated on the certification label located on the driver’s door B-pillar.

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) This is the maximum permissible vehicle weight of the fully loaded vehicle (weight of the vehicle including all options, passen- gers, fuel, and cargo and, if applicable, trailer tongue load). It is indicated on certification label located on the driver’s door B-pillar.

Kilopascal (kPa) The metric unit for air pressure. There are 6.9 kPa to 1 psi; another metric unit for air pressure is bar. There are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to 1 bar.

Maximum load rating The maximum load in kilograms and pounds that can be carried by the tire.

Maximum loaded vehicle weight The sum of curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight and production options weight.

Maximum tire inflation pressure This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire under normal driving conditions.

Normal occupant weight The number of occupants the vehicle is designed to seat, multiplied by 68 kilograms (150 lbs).

Occupant distribution The distribution of occupants in a vehicle at their designated seating positions.

Production options weight The combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over 5 lbs (2.3 kilograms) in excess of those standard items which they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy duty brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special trim.

351

Operation Tires and wheels

PSI (Pounds per square inch) A standard unit of measure for air pressure -> bar, kilopascal (kPa).

Recommended tire inflation pressure Recommended tire inflation pressure listed on placard located on driver’s door B-pillar for normal driving conditions. Provides best handling, tread life and riding comfort.

Rim A metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads are seated.

Sidewall The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead.

TIN (Tire Identification Number) Unique identifier which facilitates efforts by tire manufacturers to notify purchasers in recall situations or other safety matters concerning tires and gives purchases the means to easily identify such tires. The TIN is comprised of “Manufacturer’s identifica- tion mark”, “Tire size”, “Tire type code” and “Date of manufacture”.

Tire load rating Numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can support.

Tire ply composition and material used This indicates the number of plies or the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and sidewall. Tire manufac- turers also must indicate the ply materials in the tire and sidewall, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.

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

Traction Force exerted by the vehicle on the road via the tires. The amount of grip provided.

Tread The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road.

Treadwear indicators Narrow bands, sometimes called “wear bars” that show across the tread of a tire when only 1/16 in (1.6 mm) of tread remains.

352

Operation Tires and wheels

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards A tire information system that provides consumers with ratings for a tire’s traction, temperature and treadwear. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using government testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the sidewall of the tire.

Vehicle capacity weight Rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kilograms (150 lbs) times the vehicle’s designated seating capacity.

Vehicle maximum load on the tire Load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and dividing it by two.

Rotating tires

Warning!

Rotate front and rear wheels only if the tires are of the same dimension.

If your vehicle is equipped with mixed-size tires (different tire dimensions front vs. rear), tire rotation is not possible.

Tire rotation can be performed on vehicles with tires of the same dimension all around. If your vehicle is equipped with tires of the same dimension all around, tires can be rotated, observing a front-to-rear rotation pattern that will maintain the intended rotation (spinning) direction of the tire (컄 page 327). In some cases, such as when your vehicle is equipped with mixed-size tires (different tire dimension front vs. rear), tire rotation is not possible.

If applicable to your vehicle’s tire configu- ration, tires can be rotated according to the tire manufacturer’s recommended in- tervals in the tire manufacturer’s warranty pamphlet located in your vehicle literature portfolio. If none is available, tires should be rotated every 3000 to 6000 miles (5000 to 10000 km), or sooner if neces- sary, according to the degree of tire wear. The same rotation (spinning) direction must be maintained (컄 page 327). Rotate tires before the characteristic tire wear pattern becomes visible (shoulder wear on front tires and tread center wear on rear tires). Thoroughly clean the mounting face of wheels and brake disks, i.e. the inner side of the wheels/tires, during each rotation. Check for and ensure proper tire inflation pressure, activating the Tire Pressure Monitoring System* (TPMS*) (컄 page 335) if necessary.

353

Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

Have the tightening torque checked after changing a wheel. Wheels could become loose if not tightened with a torque of 96 lb-ft (130 Nm).

Only use Genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for your vehicle’s rims.

For information on wheel change, see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 422) and (컄 page 445).

354

왔 Winter driving Before the onset of winter, have your vehicle winterized at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. This service includes: 앫 Check of anticorrosion and antifreeze

concentration.

앫 Addition of cleaning concentrate to the water of the windshield and headlamp cleaning system. Add MB Concentrate “S” to a premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze which is formulated for temperatures below freezing point (컄 page 488).

앫 Battery test. Battery capacity drops

with decreasing ambient temperature. A well charged battery helps to make sure that the engine can be started and the electrohydraulic brake system will be fully operational, even at low ambi- ent temperatures.

앫 Tire change.

Winter tires

Always use winter tires at temperatures below 45°F (7°C) and whenever wintry road conditions prevail. Not all M+S rated tires provide special winter performance. Make sure the tires you use show the mountain/snowflake.marking on the tire sidewall. These tires meet specific snow traction performance requirements of the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) and The Rubber Association of Can- ada (RAC) and have been designed specif- ically for use in snow conditions. Use of winter tires is the only way to achieve the maximum effectiveness of the ABS, ESP® and 4MATIC in winter operation. For safe handling, make sure that all mounted winter tires are of the same make and have the same tread design.

Operation Winter driving

Warning!

Winter tires with a tread depth of less than 1/6 in (4 mm) must be replaced. They are no longer suitable for winter operation.

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

355

Operation Winter driving

Warning!

Snow chains

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

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

Block heater* (Canada only)

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

When driving with snow chains, always select the raised level of the level con- trol system Airmatic* (컄 page 256). Other settings may result in damage to your vehicle.

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

When driving with snow chains, you