2004 Mercedes-benz E Class Owners Manual

tivation, please call the Response Cen- ter at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada).

Controls in detail Useful features

The Tele Aid system (Telematic Alarm Identification on De- mand) The Tele Aid system consists of three types of response: 앫 automatic and manual emergency 앫 roadside assistance and 앫 information The Tele Aid system is operational provid- ing that the vehicle’s battery is charged, properly connected, not damaged and cel- lular and GPS coverage is available. The speaker volume of a Tele Aid call can be adjusted when using the volume control on the multifunction steering wheel. To raise, press button æ and to lower, press button ç. 왘 To activate, press the SOS button, the

Roadside Assistance button • or the Information button ¡, depend- ing on the type of response required.

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Controls in detail Useful features

The SOS button is located above the in- terior rear view mirror. The Roadside Assistance button • and the Information button ¡ are located below the center armrest cov- er.

Shortly after the completion of your ac- quaintance call, you will receive a user ID and password via first call mail. By visiting www.mbusa.com and selecting “Tele Aid” (USA only), you will have access to account information, remote door unlock and more.

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The Tele Aid system utilizes the cellular network for communication and the GPS (Global Positioning System) satel- lites for vehicle location. If either of these signals are unavailable, the Tele Aid system may not function and if this occurs, assistance must be sum- moned by other means.

System self-check Initially, after turning the ignition on, mal- functions are detected and indicated (the indicator lamps in the SOS button, the Roadside Assistance button • and the Information button ¡ stay on longer than ten seconds or do not come on). The message TELE AID – VISIT WORKSHOP! ap- pears for approximately 10 seconds in the multifunction display.

Warning!

If the indicator lamps in the SOS button, in the Roadside Assistance button and/or in the Information button remain illuminated constantly in red and/or the message TELE AID - VISIT WORKSHOP! is displayed in the multifunction display after the system self-check, a malfunction in the system has been detected.

If a malfunction is indicated as outlined above, the system may not operate as ex- pected. Have the system checked at the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Emergency calls An emergency call is initiated automatical- ly: 앫 following an accident in which the

emergency tensioning devices (ETDs) or air bags deploy

앫 if the anti-theft alarm or the tow-away

alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds. See anti-theft alarm sys- tem (컄 page 89) and tow-away alarm (컄 page 90)

An emergency call can also be initiated manually by opening the cover next to the interior rear view mirror labeled SOS, then briefly pressing the button located under the cover. See below for instructions on initiating an emergency call manually. Once the emergency call is in progress, the indicator lamp in the SOS button will begin to flash. The message EMERGENCY CALL – CONNECTING CALL appears in the multifunc- tion display. When the connection is estab- lished, the message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multifunc-

Controls in detail Useful features

tion display. All information relevant to the emergency, such as the location of the ve- hicle (determined by the GPS satellite loca- tion system), vehicle model, identification number and color are generated. A voice connection between the Response Center and the occupants of the vehicle will be established automatically soon af- ter the emergency call has been initiated. When a voice connection is established, the audio system mutes and the message TELE AID – EMERGENCY CALL ACTIVE ap- pears in the multifunction display. The Re- sponse Center will attempt to determine more precisely the nature of the accident provided they can speak to an occupant of the vehicle.

The Tele Aid system is available if: 앫 it has been activated and is operation- al. Activation requires a subscription for monitoring services, connection and cellular air time

앫 the relevant cellular phone network

and GPS signals are available and pass the information on to the Response Center

Location of the vehicle on a map is only possible if the vehicle is able to receive signals from the GPS satellite network and pass the information on to the Response Center.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Warning!

Initiating an emergency call manually

Warning!

If you feel at any way in jeopardy when in the vehicle (e.g. smoke or fire in the vehicle, ve- hicle in a dangerous road location), please do not wait for voice contact after you have pressed the emergency button. Carefully leave the vehicle and move to a safe loca- tion. The Response Center will automatically contact local emergency officials with the vehicle’s approximate location if they re- ceive an automatic SOS signal and cannot make voice contact with the vehicle occu- pants.

If the indicator lamp in the SOS button is il- luminated continuously and there was no voice connection to the Response Center established, then the Tele Aid system could not initiate an emergency call (e.g. the rele- vant cellular phone network is not available). The message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL FAILED appears in the multifunction display for approximately 10 seconds.

Should this occur, assistance must be sum- moned by other means.

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1 Cover 2 SOS button 왘 Briefly press on cover 1.

The cover will open.

왘 Press SOS button 2 briefly.

The indicator lamp in SOS button 2 will flash until the emergency call is concluded.

왘 Wait for a voice connection to the Re-

sponse Center.

왘 Close cover after the emergency call is

concluded.

Roadside Assistance button • Located below the center armrest cover is the Roadside Assistance button •. 왘 Press and hold the button (for longer

than 2 seconds). A call to a Mercedes-Benz Roadside As- sistance dispatcher will be initiated. The button will flash while the call is in progress. The message ROADSIDE AS- SISTANCE – CONNECTING CALL will ap- pear in the multifunction display.

When the connection is established, the message ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multifunc- tion display. The Tele Aid system will trans- mit data generating the vehicle identification number, model, color and lo- cation (subject to availability of cellular and GPS signals). A voice connection between the Roadside Assistance dispatcher and the occupants of the vehicle will be established. When a voice connection is established, the audio system mutes and the message

TELE AID – ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE CALL ACTIVE appears in the multifunction display. 왘 Describe the nature of the need for as-

sistance.

The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance dispatcher will either dispatch a qualified Mercedes-Benz technician or arrange to tow your vehicle to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. For services such as labor and/or towing, charges may ap- ply. Refer to the Roadside Assistance man- ual for more information. These programs are only available in the USA: 앫 Sign and Drive services: Services such as a jump start, a few gallons of fuel or the replacement of a flat tire with the vehicle spare tire are obtainable.

앫 Remote Vehicle Diagnostics: This func- tion permits the Mercedes-Benz Road- side Assistance dispatcher to download malfunction codes and actu- al vehicle data.

Controls in detail Useful features

The indicator lamp on the Roadside As- sistance button • remains illumi- nated in red for approximately 10 seconds during the system self-check after turning the ignition on (together with the SOS button and the Information button ¡). See system self-check (컄 page 254) when the indicator lamp does not come on in red or stays on longer than ap- proximately 10 seconds. If the indicator lamp on the Roadside Assistance button • is illuminated continuously and there was no voice connection to the Response Center es- tablished, then the Tele Aid system could not initiate a Roadside Assis- tance call (e.g. the relevant cellular phone network is not available). The message ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE – CALL FAILED appears in the multifunc- tion display.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Roadside Assistance calls can be ter- minated using the tbutton on the multifunction steering wheel.

Information button ¡ The Information button ¡ is located be- low the center armrest cover. 왘 Press and hold button (for longer than

2 seconds). A call to the Customer Assistance Cen- ter will be initiated. The button will flash while the call is in progress. The message INFO – CONNECTING CALL will appear in the multifunction display.

When the connection is established, the message INFO – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multifunction display. The Tele Aid system will transmit data generating the vehicle identification number, model, color and location (subject to availability of cel- lular and GPS signals). A voice connection between the Customer Assistance Center representative and the occupants of the vehicle will be estab-

258

lished. When a voice connection is estab- lished, the audio system is muted and the message TELE AID – INFO CALL ACTIVE appears in the multifunction display. Infor- mation regarding the operation of your ve- hicle, the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or Mercedes-Benz USA products and services is available to you. For more details concerning the Tele Aid system, please visit www.mbusa.com and use your ID and password (sent to you sep- arately) to learn more (USA only).

The indicator lamp on the Information button ¡ remains illuminated in red for approximately 10 seconds during the system self-check after turning the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 2 (together with the SOS but- ton and the Roadside Assistance button •).

See system self-check (컄 page 254) when the indicator lamp does not come on in red or stays on longer than ap- proximately ten seconds. If the indicator lamp on the Information button ¡ is illuminated continuous- ly and there was no voice connection to the Response Center established, then the Tele Aid system could not initiate an Information call (e.g. the relevant cellular phone network is not avail- able). The message INFO – CALL FAILED appears in the multifunc- tion display. Information calls can be terminated us- ing the tbutton on the multifunc- tion steering wheel.

! If the indicator lamps do not start flash- ing after pressing one of the buttons or remain illuminated (in red) at any time, the Tele Aid system has detected a fault or the service is not currently ac- tive, and may not initiate a call. Visit your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center and have the system checked or con- tact the Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada) as soon as possible.

Upgrade signals The Tele Aid system processes calls using the following priority: 앫 Automatic emergency – First priority 앫 Manual emergency – Second priority 앫 Roadside assistance – Third priority 앫 Information – Fourth priority Should a higher priority call be initiated while you are connected, an upgrade (al- ternating) tone will be heard, and the ap- propriate indicator lamp will flash. If certain information such as vehicle identi- fication number or customer information is not available, the operator may need to re- transmit. During this time you will hear a beep and voice contact will be interrupted. Voice contact will resume once the retransmis- sion is completed. Once a call is conclud- ed, a beep will be heard and the respective indicator lamp will stop flashing. The COMAND system operation will resume.

Controls in detail Useful features

If the indicator lamp continues to flash or the system does not reset, contact the Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada), or Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) in the USA or Cus- tomer Service at 1-800-387-0100 in Canada.

The indicator lamp in the respective button flashes until the call is conclud- ed. Calls can only be terminated by a Response Center or Customer Assis- tance Center representative except Roadside Assistance and Information calls, which can also be terminated by pressing button t on the multifunc- tion steering wheel.

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Controls in detail Useful features

When a Tele Aid call has been initiated, the COMAND system audio is muted and the selected mode (radio or CD) pauses. The optional cellular phone (if installed) switches off. If you must use this phone, the vehicle must be parked. Disconnect the coiled cord and place the call. The COMAND navigation* system (if engaged) will continue to run. The display in the instrument clus- ter is available for use, and spoken commands are only available by press- ing the RPT button on the COMAND unit. A pop-up window will appear in the COMAND display to indicate that a Tele Aid call is in progress.

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Remote door unlock In case you have locked your vehicle unin- tentionally (e.g. SmartKey inside vehicle), and the reserve SmartKey is not handy: 왘 Contact the Mercedes-Benz Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada). You will be asked to provide your pass- word which you provided when you completed the subscriber agreement. 왘 Then return to your vehicle and pull the trunk recessed handle for a minimum of 20 seconds until the SOS button is flashing. The message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multi- function display.

As an alternative, you may unlock the vehi- cle via Internet using the ID and password sent to you shortly after the completion of your acquaintance call.

The Response Center will then unlock your vehicle with the remote door unlocking feature.

The remote door unlock feature is avail- able if the relevant cellular phone net- work is available. The SOS button will flash and the mes- sage EMERGENCY CALL – CALL CONNECTED will appear in the mul- tifunction display to indicate receipt of the door unlock command. Once the vehicle is unlocked, a Re- sponse Center specialist will attempt to establish voice contact with the ve- hicle occupants. If the trunk recessed handle was pulled for more than 20 seconds before door unlock authorization was received by the Response Center, you must wait 15 minutes before pulling the trunk re- cessed handle again.

Garage door opener

The built-in remote control is capable of operating up to three separately controlled devices, for example garage door openers, gate openers, or other devices compatible with HomeLink® or some other systems. You can program the signal transmitter buttons.

Stolen vehicle tracking services In the event your vehicle was stolen: 왘 Report the incident to the police.

The police will issue a numbered inci- dent report.

왘 Pass this number on to the

Mercedes-Benz Response Center along with your password issued to you when you subscribed to the service. The Response Center will then attempt to covertly contact the vehicle’s Tele Aid system. Once the vehicle is locat- ed, the Response Center will contact the local law enforcement and you. The vehicle’s location will only be provided to law enforcement.

123 Signal transmitter key

Indicator lamp Hand-held transmitter button Hand-held remote control trans- mitter (not part of the vehicle equipment)

Controls in detail Useful features

Warning!

Before programming the integrated remote control to a garage door opener or gate op- erator, make sure that people and objects are out of the way of the device to prevent potential harm or damage.

When programming a garage door opener, the door moves up or down. When program- ming a gate operator, the gate opens or closes.

Do not use the integrated remote control with any garage door opener that lacks safe- ty stop and reverse features as required by U.S. federal safety standards (this includes any garage door opener model manufac- tured before April 1, 1982). A garage door that cannot detect an object - signaling the door to stop and reverse - does not meet current U.S. federal safety standards.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Certain types of garage door openers are incompatible with the integrated opener. If you should experience diffi- culties with programming the transmit- ter, contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, or call Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA only) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.

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

interference, and

(2) this device must accept any inter-

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

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

Programming or reprogramming the in- tegrated remote control Step 1: 왘 Switch on ignition. Step 2: 왘 If you have previously programmed an

integrated signal transmitter button and wish to retain its programming, proceed to step 3. Otherwise, press and hold the two outer signal transmit- ter buttons 1 and 3 and release them only when the indicator light be- gins to flash after approximately 20 seconds (do not hold the button for longer than 30 seconds). This proce- dure erases any previous settings for all three channels and initializes the memory. If you later wish to program a second and/or third hand-held trans- mitter to the remaining two signal transmitter buttons, do not repeat this step and begin directly with step 3.

Step 3: 왘 Hold the end of the hand-held remote

control transmitter 6 of the device you wish to train approximately 2 to 5 in (5 to12 cm) away from the surface of the integrated remote control locat- ed on the interior rear view mirror, keeping the indicator lamp 4 in view.

Step 4: 왘 Using both hands, simultaneously

press the hand-held transmitter button 5 and the desired integrated signal transmitter button (1, 2 or 3). Do not release the buttons until completing step 5. The indicator lamp 4 on the integrat- ed remote control will flash, first slowly and then rapidly.

Controls in detail Useful features

The indicator lamp 4 flashes the first time the signal transmitter button is programmed. If this button has already been programmed, the indicator lamp will only start flashing after 20 sec- onds.

If the indicator lamp 4 blinks rapidly for about two seconds and then turns to a constant light, continue with pro- gramming steps 8 through 12 as your garage door opener may be equipped with the “rolling code” feature.

Step 7: 왘 To program the remaining two buttons,

repeat the steps above starting with step 3.

Step 5: 왘 When the indicator lamp 4 flashes

rapidly, release both buttons.

Step 6: 왘 Press and hold the just-trained inte- grated signal transmitter button and observe the indicator lamp 4. If the indicator lamp 4 stays on con- stantly, programming is complete and your device should activate when the integrated signal transmitter button is pressed and released.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Rolling code programming To train a garage door opener (or other roll- ing code devices) with the rolling code fea- ture, follow these instructions after completing the “Programming” portion (steps 1 through 6) of this text. (A second person may make the following training procedures quicker and easier.) Step 8: 왘 Locate “training” button on the garage

door opener motor head unit. Exact location and color of the button may vary by garage door opener brand. Depending on manufacturer, the “train- ing” button may also be referred to as “learn”or “smart” button. If there is dif- ficulty locating the transmitting button, refer to the garage door opener opera- tor’s manual.

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Step 9: 왘 Press “training” button on the garage

door opener motor head unit. The “training light” is activated.

You have 30 seconds to initiate the follow- ing step. Step 10: 왘 Firmly press, hold for two seconds and

release the programmed integrated signal transmitter button (1, 2 or 3).

Step 11: 왘 Press, hold for two seconds and re- lease same button a second time to complete the training process.

Some garage door openers (or other rolling code equipped devices) may require you to perform this procedure a third time to complete the training.

Step 12: 왘 Confirm the garage door operation by pressing the programmed integrated signal transmitter button (1, 2 or 3).

Step 13: 왘 To program the remaining two buttons,

repeat the steps above starting with step 3.

Gate operator/Canadian programming Canadian radio-frequency laws require transmitter signals to “time-out” (or quit) after several seconds of transmission which may not be long enough for the inte- grated signal transmitter to pick up the sig- nal during programming. Similar to this Canadian law, some U.S. gate operators are designed to “time-out” in the same manner.

If you live in Canada or if you are having dif- ficulties programming a gate operator (re- gardless of where you live) by using the programming procedures, replace step 4 with the following: Step 4: 왘 Continue to press and hold the inte- grated signal transmitter button (1, 2 or 3) while you press and re-press (“cycle”) your hand-held remote con- trol transmitter 6 every two seconds until the frequency signal has been learned. Upon successful training, the indicator lamp 4 will flash slowly and then rapidly after several seconds.

왘 Proceed with programming step 5 and

step 6 to complete.

Operation of integrated remote control 왘 Switch on ignition. 왘 Select and press the appropriate inte- grated signal transmitter button (1, 2 or 3) to activate the remote con- trolled device. The integrated remote control trans- mitter continues to send the signal as long as the button is pressed – up to 20 seconds.

Erasing the integrated remote control memory 왘 Switch on ignition. 왘 Simultaneously hold down the signal transmitter buttons 1 and 3, for ap- proximately 20 seconds, until the indi- cator lamp 4 blinks rapidly. Do not hold for longer than 30 seconds. The codes of all three channels are erased.

Controls in detail Useful features

If you sell your vehicle, erase the codes of all three channels.

Reprogramming a single integrated signal transmitter button To program a device using a signal trans- mitter button previously trained, follow these steps: 왘 Press and hold the desired signal trans- mitter button (1, 2 or 3). Do not re- lease the button.

왘 The indicator lamp will begin to flash af- ter 20 seconds. Without releasing the integrated signal transmitter button, proceed with programming starting with step 3.

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266

Operation The first 1000 miles (1500 km)

Driving instructions

At the gas station

Engine compartment

Tires and wheels

Winter driving

Maintenance

Vehicle care

267

Operation The first 1000 miles (1500 km)

In the “Operation” section you will find de- tailed information on operating, maintain- ing and caring for your vehicle.

268

왔

The first 1000 miles (1500 km) The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satis- fied you will be with its performance later on. 앫 Drive your vehicle during the first

1000 miles (1500 km) at varying but moderate vehicle and engine speeds. 앫 During this period, avoid heavy loads (full throttle driving) and excessive en- gine speeds (no more than 2⁄ 3 of maxi- mum rpm in each gear).

앫 Avoid accelerating by kick-down. 앫 Do not attempt to slow the vehicle

down by shifting to a lower gear using the selector lever.

앫 Select positions 3, 2 or 1 only when driving at moderate speeds (for hill driving).

After 1000 miles (1500 km) you may grad- ually increase vehicle and engine speeds to the permissible maximum.

Additional instructions for AMG vehi- cles: 앫 During the first 1000 miles

(1500 km), do not exceed a speed of 85 mph (140 km/h).

앫 During this period, avoid engine speeds above 4500 rpm in each gear.

All of the above, as may apply to your vehi- cle type, also apply when driving the first 1000 miles (1500 km) after the engine or the rear differential has been replaced.

Always obey applicable speed limits.

Operation Driving instructions

Drinking and driving

Pedals

Warning!

Warning!

Keep driver’s foot area clear at all times. Ob- jects stored in this area may impair pedal movement.

Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and driving are very dangerous combina- tions. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect your reflexes, perceptions and judgement.

The possibility of a serious or even fatal ac- cident 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.

왔 Driving instructions Drive sensibly – save fuel

Fuel consumption, to a great extent, de- pends on driving habits and operating con- ditions. To save fuel you should: 앫 Keep tires at the recommended infla-

tion pressures.

앫 Remove unnecessary loads. 앫 Remove roof rack when not in use. 앫 Allow engine to warm up under low

load use.

앫 Avoid frequent acceleration and decel-

eration.

앫 Have all maintenance work performed at the intervals specified in the Service Booklet and as required by the FSS. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Fuel consumption is also increased by driv- ing in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic, on short trips and in hilly country.

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Operation Driving instructions

Power assistance

Warning!

The brake system requires electrical energy for operation.

A malfunction in the vehicle’s power supply or electrical system may impair brake sys- tem operation and switch it into its emer- gency operation mode. In such a case, the red brake warning lamp (컄 page 314) and warning messages in the instrument cluster (컄 page 321) come on while driving. To brake, the driver must then apply signifi- cantly greater brake pedal pressure and de- press the pedal much further to obtain the expected braking effect. If necessary, apply full pressure to the brake pedal. Brakes may only be applied to the front wheels. Stop- ping distance is increased!

270

If there is a malfunction in the SBC brake system, we recommend that the vehicle be transported with all wheels off the ground using flatbed or appropriate wheel lift/dolly equipment. A tow bar must be used if cir- cumstances do not permit the use of the recommended towing methods and the ve- hicle requires towing with all four wheels on the ground. Towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground is only permissible for distances up to 30 miles (50 km) and at a speed not to exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). For more information, refer to “Towing the vehi- cle” (컄 page 385). For more information, see “The SBC brake system” (컄 page 85). 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 ve- hicle.

Brakes

Warning!

After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through wa- ter deep enough to wet brake components, the first braking action may be somewhat reduced and increased pedal pressure may be necessary to obtain expected braking ef- fect. Maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.

Resting your foot on the brake pedal will cause excessive and premature wear of the brake pads.

It can also result in the brakes overheating, thereby significantly reducing their effec- tiveness. It may not be possible to stop the vehicle in sufficient time to avoid an acci- dent.

To help prevent brake disk corrosion after driving on wet road surfaces (particularly salted roads), it is advisable to brake the vehicle with considerable force prior to parking. The heat generated serves to dry the brakes. If your brake system is normally only sub- jected to moderate loads, you should occa- sionally test the effectiveness of the brakes by applying above-normal braking pressure at higher speeds. This will also enhance the grip of the brake pads.

Be very careful not to endanger other road users when you apply the brakes. Refer to the description of the Brake Assist System (BAS) (컄 page 82).

If the parking brake is released and the brake warning lamp in the instrument clus- ter stays on, there is a malfunction in the SBC brake system (컄 page 85) or the brake fluid level in the reservoir is too low. Brake pad wear or a leak in the system may be the reason for low brake fluid in the res- ervoir. Have the brake system inspected by quali- fied technicians immediately. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. All checks and service work on the brake system should be carried out by qualified technicians only. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Only install brake pads and brake fluid rec- ommended by Mercedes-Benz.

Operation Driving instructions

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.

Be certain to read and observe the warning notices on brake pad replacement (컄 page 329).

When driving down long and steep grades, relieve the load on the brakes by shifting into a lower gear to use the engine’s braking power. This helps pre- vent overheating of the brakes and re- duces brake pad wear.

After hard braking, it is advisable to drive on for some time, rather than immediately parking, so that the air stream will cool down the brakes faster.

271

Operation Driving instructions

Driving off

Parking

Apply the brakes to test them briefly after driving off. Perform this procedure only when the road is clear of other traffic. Warm up the engine smoothly. Do not place full load on the engine until the oper- ating temperature has been reached. When starting off on a slippery surface, do not allow a drive wheel to spin for an ex- tended period with the ESP switched off. Doing so may cause serious damage to the drive train which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Simultaneously depressing the acceler- ator pedal and applying the brake re- duces engine performance and causes premature brake and drivetrain wear.

272

Set the parking brake whenever park- ing or leaving the vehicle. In addition, move gear selector lever to position P. When parking on hills, always set the parking brake and turn front wheel against road curb.

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

wheel towards the road curb.

앫 Turn the SmartKey to starter switch

position 0 and remove, or press KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button (vehi- cles with KEYLESS-GO*).

앫 Take the SmartKey or the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* with you and lock vehicle when leaving.

Warning!

Tires

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

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

Warning!

If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that possi- ble damage to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on the hazard warning flash- ers, carefully slow down, and drive with cau- tion to an area which is a safe distance from the road.

Operation Driving instructions

Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires appear unsafe, have it towed to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or tire dealer for re- pairs.

Tread wear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These indicators are located in six places on the tread circumference and be- come visible at a tread depth of approxi- mately 1⁄ 16 in (1.6 mm), at which point the tire is considered worn and should be re- placed. The tread wear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread.

Warning!

Warning!

Although the applicable federal motor vehi- cle safety laws consider a tire to be worn when the tread wear indicators (TWI) be- come visible at approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), we recommend that you do not al- low your tires to wear down to that level. As tread depth approaches 1/8 in (3 mm), the adhesion properties on a wet road are sharply reduced.

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

Specified tire pressures must be main- tained. This applies particularly if the tires are subjected to high loads (e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, high ambient temper- atures).

Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You may lose control of the vehicle. Continued driving with a flat tire or driving at high speed with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-up and possibly a fire.

Hydroplaning

Depending on the depth of the water layer on the road, hydroplaning may occur, even at low speeds and with new tires. Reduce vehicle speed, avoid track grooves in the road and apply brakes cautiously in the rain.

273

Operation Driving instructions

Tire traction

The safe speed on a wet, snow covered or icy road is always lower than on a dry road. You should pay particular attention to the condition of the road whenever the outside temperatures are close to the freezing point.

Warning!

If ice has formed on the road, tire traction will be substantially reduced. Under such weather conditions, drive, steer and brake with extreme caution.

Mercedes-Benz recommends M+S rated radial-ply tires with a minimum tread depth of approximately 1/6 in (4 mm) on all four wheels for the winter season to make sure normal balanced handling characteristics. On packed snow, they can reduce your stopping distance compared to summer tires. Stopping distance, however, is still

274

E 320, E 320 4MATIC E 500, E 500 4MATIC E 320 4MATIC (Appearance Package*) E 500 4MATIC (Appearance Package*) Your vehicle is factory equipped with “H”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of 130 mph (210 km/h).

E 320 (Appearance Package*) E 500 (Appearance Package*) Your vehicle is factory equipped with “W”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of 168 mph (270 km/h). An electronic speed limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding a speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).

considerably greater than when the road is not covered with snow or ice. Exercise ap- propriate caution.

Tire speed rating

Regardless of the tire speed rating, local speed limits should be obeyed. Use pru- dent driving speeds appropriate to prevail- ing conditions.

Warning!

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

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

E 55 AMG Your vehicle is factory equipped with “Z”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of above 149 mph (240 km/h). An electronic speed limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding a speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

For information on speed ratings for winter tires, see “Winter driving” (컄 page 297).

E 320 (Sport Package*), E 500 (Sport Package*) Your vehicle is factory equipped with “Z”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of above 149 mph (240 km/h). An electronic speed limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding a speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

E 320 4MATIC (Sport Package*) E 500 4MATIC (Sport Package*) Your vehicle is factory equipped with min. “Y”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of above 186 mph (300 km/h). An electronic speed limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding a speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

Operation Driving instructions

Winter driving instructions

The most important rule for slippery or icy roads is to drive sensibly and to avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and steering maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control system under such conditions. When the vehicle is in danger of skidding, move gear selector lever to position N. Try to keep the vehicle under control by cor- rective steering action.

For more information on driving with snow chains, see “Snow chains” (컄 page 298).

Warning!

On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehi- cle control. Your vehicle’s ABS will not pre- vent this type of control loss.

275

Operation Driving instructions

Road salts and chemicals can adversely af- fect braking efficiency. Increased pedal force may become necessary to produce the normal braking effect. Depressing the brake pedal periodically when traveling at length on salt-strewn roads can bring road-salt-impaired braking efficiency back to normal. If the vehicle is parked after being driven on salt-treated roads, the braking efficien- cy should be tested as soon as possible af- ter driving is resumed.

Warning!

Standing water

If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow, make sure that 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 in- terior resulting in unconsciousness and death.

To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, open a window slightly on the side of the ve- hicle not facing the wind

Warning!

Warning!

Make sure not to endarger any other road users when carrying out these braking ma- neuvers.

276

The outside temperature indicator is not de- signed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. In- dicated temperatures just above the freez- ing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice.

For more information, see “Winter driving” (컄 page 297)

Do not drive through flooded areas or water of unknown depth. Before driving through water, determine its depth. Never accelerate before driving into water. The bow wave could force water into the engine and auxiliary equip- ment, thus damaging them. If you must drive through standing wa- ter, drive slowly to prevent water from entering the passenger compartment or the engine compartment. Water in these areas could cause damage to electrical components or wiring of the engine or transmission, or could result in water being ingested by the engine through the air intake causing severe internal engine damage. Any such dam- age is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Operation Driving instructions

Passenger compartment

Control and operation of radio trans- mitter

Telephones and two-way radios

Warning!

Always fasten items being carried as secure- ly as possible.

In an accident, during hard braking or sud- den maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle, and cause injury to vehicle occupants unless the items are securely fastened in the vehicle.

The trunk is the preferred place to carry ob- jects.

Driving abroad

Abroad, there is an extensive Mercedes-Benz service network at your disposal. If you plan to drive into areas which are not listed in the index of your Mercedes-Benz Center directory, you should request pertinent information from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

COMAND, radio and telephone*

Warning!

Please do not forget that your primary re- sponsibility is to drive the vehicle safely. Only operate the COMAND (Cockpit Man- agement and Data System), radio or tele- phone1 if road, weather and traffic conditions permit.

Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of 44 feet (approximate- ly 14 m) every second.

1 Observe all legal requirements

Warning!

Never operate radio transmitters equipped with a built-in or attached antenna (i.e. with- out being connected to an external antenna) from inside the vehicle while the engine is running. Doing so could lead to a malfunc- tion of the vehicle’s electronic system, pos- sibly resulting in an accident and/or personal injury.

Radio transmitters, such as a portable tele- phone or a citizens band unit should only be used inside the vehicle if they are con- nected to an antenna that is installed on the outside of the vehicle. Refer to the radio transmitter operation in- structions regarding use of an external an- tenna.

277

Warning!

Emission control

As with any vehicle, do not idle, park or op- erate this vehicle in areas where combusti- ble materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

Certain systems of the engine serve to keep the toxic components of the exhaust gases within permissible limits required by law. These systems, of course, will function properly only when maintained strictly ac- cording to factory specifications. Any ad- justments on the engine should, therefore, be carried out only by qualified Mercedes-Benz Center authorized techni- cians. Engine adjustments should not be altered in any way. Moreover, the specified service jobs must be carried out regularly according to Mercedes-Benz servicing re- quirements. For details refer to the Service Booklet.

Operation Driving instructions

Catalytic converter

Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with monolithic-type catalytic converters, an important element in conjunction with the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial con- trol of the pollutants in the exhaust emis- sions. Keep your vehicle in proper operating condition by following our rec- ommended maintenance instructions as outlined in your Service Booklet.

To prevent damage to the catalytic con- verters, use only premium unleaded gasoline in this vehicle. Any noticeable irregularities in engine operation should be repaired promptly. Otherwise, excessive unburned fuel may reach the catalytic converter, causing it to overheat, which could start a fire.

278

Warning!

Coolant temperature

Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, and inhaling it can cause uncon- sciousness and lead to 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 win- dow fully open at all times.

During severe operating conditions and stop-and-go city traffic, the coolant tem- perature may rise close to approximately 248°F (120°C). The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature over 248°F (120°C). Doing so may cause serious en- gine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Operation Driving instructions

Warning!

앫 Driving when your engine is badly over-

heated can cause some fluids, which may have leaked into the engine com- partment, to catch fire. You could be se- riously burned.

앫 Steam from an overheated engine can cause serious burns and can occur just by opening the engine hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it.

Turn off the engine, get out of the vehicle and do not stand near the vehicle until the engine has cooled down.

279

Operation At the gas station 왔 At the gas station Refueling

Warning!

Gasoline is highly flammable and poisonous. It burns violently and can cause serious inju- ry. Whenever you are around gasoline, avoid inhaling fumes and skin contact, extinguish all smoking materials. Never allow sparks, flame or smoking materials near gasoline!

The fuel filler flap is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle towards the rear. Locking/unlocking the vehicle with the remote control automatically locks/unlocks the fuel filler flap.

280

왘 Open the fuel filler flap by pushing at

the point indicated by the arrow. The fuel filler flap springs open.

왘 Turn the fuel cap to the left and hold on to it until possible pressure is released. 왘 Take off the cap and set it in the recess

on the fuel filler flap. To prevent fuel vapors from escaping into open air, fully insert filler nozzle unit.

왘 Only fill your tank until the filler nozzle unit cuts out – do not top up or over- fill.

Warning!

Overfilling of the fuel tank may create pres- sure in the system which could cause a gas discharge. This could cause the gas to spray back out when removing the fuel pump noz- zle, which could cause personal injury.

왘 Turn the engine off

앫 by turning the SmartKey to

position 0.

앫 by pressing the KEYLESS-GO*

start/stop button. Open the driv- er’s door (with the driver’s door open, starter switch is now in position 0, same as SmartKey re- moved from starter switch).

왘 Remove the SmartKey from the starter

switch.

i Leaving the engine running and the fuel cap open can cause the yellow fuel tank reserve warning lamp to flash and the ? lamp to illuminate. See also “Practical hints” section (컄 page 317).

왘 Replace the fuel cap by turning it to the

right. You will hear when the fuel cap is tight- ened.

왘 Close the fuel filler flap.

Use only premium unleaded gasoline with a minimum Posted Octane Rating of 91 (average of 96 RON/86 MON). Information on gasoline quality can normally be found on the fuel pump. More information on gasoline can be found in the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet.

Operation At the gas station

Check regularly and before a long trip

1 Windshield washer and headlamp

cleaning system* For more information on refilling the reservoir (컄 page 289).

2 Brake fluid

More information on brake fluid can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 409). 3 Coolant level

More information on the coolant level (컄 page 287).

281

Operation At the gas station

If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness and leaks immediately. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately. Do not add brake fluid as this will not solve the problem. For more information, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 314).

Engine oil level More information on engine oil (컄 page 284). See also “Opening hood” (컄 page 283).

Vehicle lighting Check function and cleanliness. For more information on replacing light bulbs, see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 365). See also the section on the exterior lamp switch (컄 page 124).

Tire inflation pressure More information on tire inflation pressure (컄 page 292).

282

왔 Engine compartment Hood

Warning!

Do not pull the release lever while the vehi- cle is in motion. Otherwise the hood could be forced open by passing air flow.

Opening

왘 Pull lever 1 downwards.

The hood is unlocked and handle 2 will extend out of the radiator grille.

To avoid damage to the windshield wip- ers or hood, never open the hood if the wiper arms are folded forward away from the windshield.

1 Hood release

2 Handle for opening the hood

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Pull handle 2 to its stop out of radia-

tor grille.

왘 Pull up on the hood (do not pull up on

the handle) and then release it. The hood will be automatically held open at shoulder height by gas-filled struts.

Warning!

To help prevent personal injury, stay clear of moving parts when the hood is open and the engine is running. Make sure the hood is properly closed before driving. When closing the hood, use extreme caution not to catch hands or fingers.

The radiator fan may continue to run for ap- proximately 30 seconds or even restart af- ter the engine has been turned off. Stay clear of fan blades.

283

Operation Engine compartment

Warning!

Closing

Warning!

Be careful that you do not close the hood on anyone.

왘 Let the hood drop from a height of ap-

proximately 1 ft (30 cm). The hood will lock audibly.

왘 Check to make sure the hood is fully

closed. If you can raise the hood at a point above the headlamps, then it is not properly closed. Open it again and let it drop with somewhat greater force.

If you see flames or smoke coming from the engine compartment, or if the coolant tem- perature gauge indicates that the engine is overheated, do not open the hood. Move away from vehicle and do not open the hood until the engine has cooled. If necessary, call the fire department.

Warning!

The engine is equipped with a transistorized ignition system. Because of the high voltage it is dangerous to touch any components (ig- nition coils, spark plug sockets, diagnostic socket) of the ignition system 앫 with the engine running 앫 while starting the engine 앫 if ignition is “on” and the engine is

turned manually

284

Engine oil

The amount of oil your engine needs will depend on a number of factors, including driving style. Higher oil consumption can occur when 앫 the vehicle is new 앫 the vehicle is driven frequently at

higher engine speeds

Engine oil consumption checks should only be made after the vehicle break-in period.

Do not use any special lubricant addi- tives, as these may damage the drive assemblies. Using special additives not approved by Mercedes-Benz will restrict your warranty entitlement. More information on this subject is available at any Mercedes-Benz Center.

Checking engine oil level When checking the oil level the vehicle must 앫 be parked on level ground 앫 be at normal operating temperature 앫 have been stationary for at least five

minutes with the engine turned off

To check the engine oil level via the multi- function display, do the following: 왘 Switch on ignition. The standard display (컄 page 139) should appear in the multifunction display. 왘 Press button k or j, on the

steering wheel until the following message is seen in the multifunction display: Engine oil level - Measuring now! Measurement correct only if veh. level

One of the following messages will subsequently appear in the indicator: 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 the k or j button on the multifunction steering wheel.

왘 If necessary, add engine oil. For adding engine oil see (컄 page 286). More information on engine oil can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 406) and (컄 page 409).

Other display messages If the SmartKey or KEYLESS-GO start/stop button* is not in position 2, the following message will appear: Turn on ignition to see engine oil level! 왘 Switch on the ignition. If you see the message: Observe waiting period

285

Operation Engine compartment

왘 If engine is at normal operating

temperature, wait five minutes before repeating check procedure.

왘 If engine is not yet at normal operating temperature, 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 normal operating

temperature, wait five minutes before checking oil.

왘 If the engine is not yet at normal

operating temperature, you must wait 30 minutes before checking oil.

286

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

More information on messages in the display concerning engine oil can be found in the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 336).

Adding engine oil

Only use approved engine oils. For a listing of approved engine oils, refer to the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet in your vehicle literature port- folio. In addition, check the oil filler cap for important information pertaining to the engine oil needing to meet a specific Mercedes-Benz specification (e.g. MB 229.5). If such information is printed on the oil filler cap, only use an engine oil from the list of approved engine oils in the Factory Approved Service Prod- ucts pamphlet that meets the specifi- cation indicated on the oil filler cap. Using engine oils of other specification may cause the FSS to incorrectly deter- mine the next service interval and will result in engine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Operation Engine compartment

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.

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 Screw filler cap 1 back on filler neck. More information on engine oil can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 406) and (컄 page 409).

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.

1 Filler cap 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.

287

Operation Engine compartment

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 engine temperature is above 194°F (90°C). Allow engine to cool down before removing cap. The coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is under pressure.

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.

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.

288

왘 Replace and tighten cap. More information on coolant can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 411).

Battery

Your vehicle is equipped with two batter- ies: 앫 Auxiliary battery (located in the engine

compartment).

앫 Main battery (starter and electrical

consumers; located in the trunk).

These batteries should always be suffi- ciently charged in order to achieve their rated service life. Refer to Service 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.

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.

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.

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 B Battery acid is caustic. Do not

from battery. Do not smoke.

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

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.

Operation Engine compartment

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 Vehicles without headlamp cleaning

system: approximately 4.8 US qt (4.5 l).

앫 Vehicles with headlamp cleaning sys-

tem: approximately 7.4 US qt (7 l).

289

Operation Engine compartment

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.

290

If you are operating the vehicle where temperatures may fall below freezing: 앫 Vehicles without heated windshield

washer system: Use a fluid mixture (MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and com- mercially available washer sol- vent/antifreeze) that will provide sufficient protection against freez- ing in the area you are operating the vehicle in.

앫 Vehicles with heated windshield

washer system*: A fluid mixture (MB Windshield Washer Concentrate "S" and com- mercially available washer sol- vent/antifreeze) produced to resist freezing at temperatures of approx- imately 14 ° F (-10 ° C) should be sufficient.

To determine if your vehicle is equipped with a heated windshield washer system*, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Warning!

Washer solvent/antifreeze is highly flam- mable. 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 flu- id can damage the plastic lenses of the headlamps.

For more information, see “Windshield and headlamp washer fluid mixing ratio” (컄 page 413).

왔 Tires and wheels See your authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter for information on tested and recom- mended rims and tires for summer and winter operation. They can also offer ad- vice concerning tire service and purchase.

Warning!

Replace rims or tires with the same designa- tion, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part. See your 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

Warning!

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, use only 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 vehi- cle when such tires are used. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter for information on tested and recom- mended rims and tires for summer and winter operation.

Operation Tires and wheels

Important guidelines

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 pressure loss and damage to the tire beads.

앫 If vehicle is heavily loaded, check tire

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).

291

Operation Tires and wheels

Life of tire

Direction of rotation

The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying factors including but not limited to: 앫 Driving style