2012 Mercedes-benz G Class Owners Manual

If the exterior lamp switch is set to Ã, the headlamps will not automatically come on under foggy conditions. To minimize risk to you and to others, activate headlamps by turning exterior lamp switch to L when traffic and/or ambient lighting conditions require you to do so. In low ambient lighting conditions, only switch from position à to L with the vehicle at a standstill in a safe location. Switching from à to L will briefly switch off the headlamps. Doing so while driving in low ambient lighting conditions may result in an accident.

driving in low ambient lighting conditions may result in an accident.

X To switch on: turn the SmartKey to

position 2 in the ignition lock or start the engine.

X Turn the light switch to L or T. If the

light switch is set to Ã, you cannot switch on the fog lamps.

X Pull the light switch out to the first detent. The green N indicator lamp on the light switch lights up.

X To switch off: press the light switch in as

far as it will go. The green N indicator lamp on the light switch goes out.

Rear fog lamp X To switch on: turn the SmartKey to

position 2 in the ignition lock or start the engine.

X Turn the light switch to L or T. If the

light switch is set to Ã, you cannot switch on the rear fog lamp.

X Pull the light switch out to the second

detent. The yellow R indicator lamp on the light switch lights up.

X To switch off: press the light switch in as

far as it will go. The yellow R indicator lamp on the light switch goes out.

90

Exterior lighting

The automatic headlamp feature is only an aid to the driver. The driver is responsible for the operation of the vehicle’s lights at all times.

The parking lamps, low-beam headlamps and license plate lamp are switched on or off automatically, depending on the brightness of the ambient light. X To switch on: turn the light switch to

Ã. SmartKey in position 1 in the ignition lock: the parking lamps are switched on or off automatically depending on the brightness of the ambient light. When the engine is running: depending on the ambient light, the parking lamps, the low-beam headlamps and the license plate lamp are switched on or off automatically. When the low-beam headlamps are switched on, the L indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up.

Canada only: if the light switch is in position $ or Ã, you cannot switch on the high- beam headlamps. However, the high-beam flasher can always be used. Turn the light switch to L when driving at night. You can switch on the high-beam headlamps in this position.

Front fog lamps and rear fog lamp Front fog lamps G WARNING If you suspect that driving conditions will be foggy, turn the light switch to L before you start your journey. Your vehicle may otherwise not be visible and you could endanger yourself and others. G WARNING In low ambient lighting or foggy conditions, only switch from position à to L with the vehicle at a standstill in a safe location. Switching from à to L will briefly switch off the headlamps. Doing so while

Combination switch Turn signals

X To indicate briefly: press the combination switch briefly to the pressure point in the direction of arrow ; or ?. The corresponding turn signal flashes three times.

X To indicate: press the combination switch beyond the pressure point in the direction of arrow ; or ?. The corresponding ! or # indicator lamp in the instrument cluster flashes.

High-beam headlamps X To switch on: turn the SmartKey to

position 2 in the ignition lock or start the engine.

X Turn the light switch to L or Ã. X Press the combination switch beyond the

pressure point in the direction of arrow :. In the à position, the high-beam headlamps are only switched on when it is dark.

X To deactivate: move the combination

switch back to its normal position. The K indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

Exterior lighting

91

High-beam flasher X To switch on: turn the SmartKey in the

ignition lock to position 1 or 2 or start the engine.

X Pull the combination switch briefly in the

direction of arrow =. The K indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up briefly.

Hazard warning lamps

The hazard warning lamps switch on automatically if an air bag or the Emergency Tensioning Devices are triggered and the SmartKey is in position 1 in the ignition lock. X To switch on: press button :.

All turn signals flash. If you now switch on a turn signal using the combination switch, only the turn signal lamp on the corresponding side of the vehicle will flash.

X To switch off: press button :. i The hazard warning lamps still operate if

the ignition is switched off.

Headlamp cleaning system The headlamps are cleaned automatically if the "Wipe with washer fluid" function is operated fifteen times while the lights are on and the engine is running (Y page 100). When you switch off the ignition, the automatic headlamp cleaning system is reset and counting is resumed from 0.

92

Interior lighting

X Drive with the headlamps switched on.

The level of moisture diminishes, depending on the length of the journey and the weather conditions (humidity and temperature).

If the level of moisture does not diminish: X Have the headlamps checked at a qualified

specialist workshop.

Interior lighting Overview of interior lighting

Front overhead control panel : t To switch the cargo compartment

lamp/rear interior lighting on/off

; p Switches the right-hand reading

lamp on/off

= Rocker switch (to control the interior

lighting)

? p Switches the left-hand reading lamp

on/off

X To switch on manually: turn the

SmartKey to position 2 in the ignition lock or start the engine.

X Briefly press button : of the headlamp

cleaning system. The headlamps are cleaned with a high- pressure water jet.

Cornering light function The cornering light function improves the illumination of the road over a wide angle in the direction you are turning, enabling better visibility in tight bends, for example. It can only be activated if the low-beam headlamps are switched on and the fog lamp is switched off. Active: if you are driving at speeds below 25 mph(40 km/h) and switch on the turn signals and turn the steering wheel. Not active: if you are driving at speeds above 25 mph(40 km/h) or switch off the turn signal and turn the steering wheel to the straight- ahead position. The cornering lamp may remain lit for a short time.

Headlamps and indicator lamps fogged up on the inside The headlamps and the indicator lamps in the exterior mirrors may fog up on the inside if there is high atmospheric humidity.

Interior lighting

93

i If a door remains open and the SmartKey

is not in the ignition lock, the interior lighting switches off after a short while.

X To switch off: press the z symbol on

rocker switch =.

The interior lighting remains switched off even when it is dark if you: Runlock the vehicle Ropen a door Rremove the SmartKey from the ignition lock

Manual control Front interior lighting ! If the interior lighting has been switched

on manually, it will not be switched off automatically. This can cause the starter battery to discharge. Make sure that the interior lighting does not remain switched on too long after the engine has been switched off.

X To switch on: press the c symbol on

rocker switch =.

X To switch off: set rocker switch = to the

center position.

Reading lamps X To switch on/off: press the p button. Cargo compartment lamp G WARNING To prevent possible personal injury, always keep hands and fingers away from the cargo compartment opening when closing the tailgate. Be especially careful when small children are around. G WARNING Make sure the tailgate is closed when the engine is running and while driving. Among other dangers, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle interior resulting in unconsciousness and death.

Rear-compartment overhead control panel : p Switches the right-hand reading

lamp on/off

; p Switches the left-hand reading lamp

on/off

Interior lighting control Important notes In order to prevent the vehicle's battery from discharging, the interior lighting functions are automatically deactivated after some time unless the SmartKey is in position 2 in the ignition lock.

Automatic interior lighting control X To switch on: set rocker switch = to the

center position.

The interior lighting switches on automatically when it is dark if you: Runlock the vehicle Ropen a door Rremove the SmartKey from the ignition lock The interior light is activated for a short while when the SmartKey is removed from the ignition lock. You can activate this delayed switch-off using the on-board computer (Y page 161). When a front door is opened, the front interior lighting comes on. When a rear door is opened, the rear interior lighting comes on. In addition, the courtesy lights come on.

94

Replacing bulbs

! Switch off the cargo compartment lamp if you wish to leave the rear door open for a longer period. The battery may otherwise discharge.

X To switch on/off: press the t button. i If you open the rear door, the cargo

compartment lamp comes on. Then, you cannot switch it off using the t button. Switch off the cargo compartment lamp if you wish to leave the rear door open for a longer period. This prevents the battery from discharging.

X Open the rear door. X To switch off with the rear door open: press lock : down in the direction of the arrow until it engages. The cargo compartment lamp is switched off.

! Do not close the rear door while lock : is engaged at the bottom. Otherwise, you could damage lock :.

X To switch on with the rear door open:

press lock cylinder ;. The cargo compartment lamp resumes its normal function.

Rear interior lighting X To switch on/off: press the t button. i The rear interior lighting switches on when you open a rear door. Then, you cannot switch it off using the t button.

Switch off the rear interior lighting if you wish to leave the rear doors open for a longer period. This prevents the battery from discharging.

Replacing bulbs Important safety notes Xenon bulbs G DANGER Xenon bulbs carry a high voltage. You could get an electric shock and be seriously or even fatally injured if you touch the electric contacts on Xenon bulbs. Therefore, never remove the cover from Xenon bulbs. Do not change the Xenon bulbs yourself, but have them replaced at a qualified workshop.

Bulbs and lamps are an important aspect of vehicle safety. You must therefore make sure that these function correctly at all times. Have the headlamp setting checked regularly.

Other bulbs G WARNING Bulbs and lamps can become very hot. For this reason, allow them to cool down before changing them. Otherwise, you could burn yourself when you touch them. Keep bulbs out of the reach of children. Otherwise, they could, for example, damage the bulbs and injure themselves. Never use a bulb which has been dropped. Such a bulb may explode and injure you. Halogen bulbs are pressurized and could explode when you change them, especially if they are very hot. You should therefore wear eye protection and gloves when you are changing them.

There are bulbs other than the Xenon bulbs that you cannot replace. Replace only the bulbs listed (Y page 95). Have the bulbs that

you cannot replace yourself changed at a qualified specialist workshop. If you require assistance changing bulbs, consult a qualified specialist workshop. Do not touch the glass tube of new bulbs with your bare hands. Even minor contamination can burn into the glass surface and reduce the service life of the bulbs. Always use a lint- free cloth or only touch the base of the bulb when installing. Only use bulbs of the correct type. If the new bulb still does not light up, consult a qualified specialist workshop. Bulbs and lamps are an important aspect of vehicle safety. You must therefore make sure that these function correctly at all times. Have the headlamp setting checked regularly.

Before changing bulbs Have the following bulbs changed at a qualified specialist workshop. Radditional turn signals in the exterior

mirrors

Rhigh-mounted brake lamp Rhigh-beam/low-beam headlamps (Xenon

bulbs)

Rparking lamp/standing lamp Rlicense plate lamp i Individual segments of the license plate

lamp LEDs may fail without a display message appearing in the multifunction display. Check the license plate lamp regularly. Consult a qualified specialist workshop if necessary.

You can replace the following bulbs: Rfog lamp/cornering light with fog lamp

function

Rturn signal lamp (front) Rbrake/tail lamp Rturn signal lamp (rear) Rtail lamp/standing lamp

Replacing bulbs

95

Rbackup lamp Rrear fog lamp Rside marker lamp

Overview: changing bulbs/bulb types Front bulbs

: Turn signal lamp: 1156 NA ; Side marker lamp: T 4 W = Cornering light function with fog lamp

function: H11 55 W

Rear bulbs

: Side marker lamp: T 4 W ; Tail lamps:

Turn signal lamp: PY 21 W Brake lamp/tail lamp: P 21/5 W Tail lamp/standing lamp: W 5 W

= Backup lamp: P 21 W ? License plate lamp: LEDs3
A Rear fog lamp: P 21 W

3 Have these bulbs changed at a qualified specialist workshop only.

96

Replacing bulbs

Changing the front bulbs Front fog lamps/cornering lamps with fog lamp function

X Hold headlamp =. X Lightly press bulb holder B, turn it

counterclockwise to the stop and pull it out.

X Switch off the lights. X Remove screws :. X Remove cover ;.

X Remove screws ?. i Only remove screws ?. Do not turn

adjustment screw A. If adjustment screw A is turned, the front fog lamp adjustment must be checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

X Remove headlamp =.

X Take bulb C out of bulb holder B. X Insert the new bulb into bulb holder B. X Insert bulb holder B into headlamp = and

turn it clockwise to the stop.

X Insert headlamp =. X Replace and tighten screws ?. X Position cover ;. X Replace and tighten screws :.

Turn signals X Switch off the lights.

Replacing bulbs

97

X Turn bulb = counterclockwise, applying

slight pressure, and remove it from the bulb holder.

X Insert the new bulb into the bulb holder and

turn it clockwise until it engages.

X Install lens ;. X Replace and tighten screws :. ! Do not fasten the screws too tightly. You

could otherwise damage the lens.

X G 55 AMG: fold down protection grille :

and engage it in bracket ;.

Side marker lamps The bulbs of the front and rear side marker lamps are changed in the same way.

G 55 AMG: turn signal with protection grille X G 55 AMG: pull protection grille : out of bracket ; in the direction of the arrow.

X Fold up protection grille :. ! Make sure that the protection grille does

not strike against painted surfaces. You could otherwise damage the paintwork.

X Remove screws :. X Remove lens ;.

Front side marker lamp (example) X Switch off the lights. X Remove screws :. X Remove housing ;.

98

Replacing bulbs

X Remove dust cover =. X Push the catch to the side and pull the bulb

holder with the bulb out of housing ;.

X Unscrew screws ;. X Swing protective grille : to the right. ! Make sure that the protective grille does

not hit any painted surfaces. You could otherwise damage the paintwork.

X After changing the bulbs, swing protective

grille : to the left. X Tighten screws ;.

Tail lamp

X Lightly press bulb ?, turn it counter-

clockwise and pull it out.

X Insert the new bulb and, applying slight

pressure, turn it clockwise until it engages.

X Insert the bulb holder into housing ;. X Attach dust cover =. X Insert housing ;. X Replace and tighten screws :. ! Do not fasten the screws too tightly. You

could otherwise damage the lens.

Changing the rear bulbs Only G 55 AMG: headlamp protection grille You must remove the protective grille before you can change the bulbs in the tail lamps.

G 55 AMG: protective grille

X Switch off the lights. X Remove screws :. X Remove lens ;.

= Turn signals ? Brake/tail lamp A Tail lamp/standing lamp

Windshield wipers

99

X Turn the bulb counterclockwise, applying slight pressure, and remove it from bulb holder.

X Insert the new bulb into the bulb holder and

turn it clockwise until it engages.

! When installing the lens, make sure that

the seal is positioned correctly.

X Install lens ;. X Replace and tighten screws :. ! Do not fasten the screws too tightly. You

could otherwise damage the lens.

X G 55 AMG: secure the protective grille

(Y page 98).

Backup lamp/rear fog lamp

Example: rear fog lamp X Switch off the lights. X Remove screws ;. X Remove lens :.

X Turn bulb = counterclockwise, applying

slight pressure, and remove it from the bulb holder.

X Insert the new bulb into the bulb holder and

turn it clockwise until it engages.

X Install lens :. X Replace and tighten screws ;. ! Do not fasten the screws too tightly. You

could otherwise damage the lens.

Windshield wipers Important safety notes G WARNING The windshield will not longer be wiped properly if the wiper blades are worn. This could prevent you from observing the traffic conditions, thereby causing an accident. Replace the wiper blades twice a year, ideally in spring and fall.

! Do not operate the windshield wipers when the windshield is dry, as this could damage the wiper blades. Moreover, dust that has collected on the windshield/rear window can scratch the glass if wiping takes place when the windshield/rear window is dry. If it is necessary to switch on the windshield wipers in dry weather conditions, always use washer fluid when operating the windshield wipers.

! If the windshield wipers leave smears on

the windshield/rear window after the vehicle has been washed in an automatic car wash, this may be due to wax or other residue. Clean the windshield/rear window with washer fluid after an automatic car wash.

100 Windshield wipers

Switching the windshield wipers on/ off

or

Ryou change the wipe setting on the

combination switch.

Switching the rear window wiper on/ off

Combination switch 1 S Continuous wipe, fast 2 ¯ Continuous wipe, slow 3 ° Intermittent wipe/rain sensor 4 $ Windshield wipers off A í Single wipe/ î To wipe the

windshield using washer fluid

X Turn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Turn the combination switch to the

corresponding position.

! Intermittent wiping with rain sensor: due

to optical influences and the windshield becoming dirty in dry weather conditions, the windshield wipers may be activated inadvertently. This could then damage the windshield wiper blades or scratch the windshield. For this reason, you should always switch off the windshield wipers in dry weather. In the ° position, the appropriate wiping frequency is set automatically according to the intensity of the rain. Intermittent wiping is interrupted if you stop and open a front door. This protects people getting into and out of the vehicle from being sprayed with water. Intermittent wiping continues when all doors are closed and: Ryou shift the automatic transmission to

drive position D or reverse gear R

The rear window wiper comes on automatically if you shift the selector lever to R while the windshield wipers are on. X Turn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To switch on intermittent wiping: push

button :. Indicator lamp ; lights up.

X To switch off intermittent wiping: push

button : again. Indicator lamp ; goes out.

X To wipe with washer fluid: push button = and hold it there until the rear window is clean. The rear window is wiped for a further five seconds after the button is released.

Replacing the wiper blades Important safety notes G WARNING For safety reasons, switch off the wipers and remove the SmartKey from the starter switch before replacing a wiper blade. Otherwise, the wiper motor could suddenly turn on and cause injury.

! To avoid damaging the wiper blades,

make sure that you touch only the wiper arm of the wiper.

! Never open the hood if a windshield wiper

arm has been folded away from the windshield. Never fold a windshield wiper arm without a wiper blade back onto the windshield/ rear window. Hold the windshield wiper arm firmly when you change the wiper blade. If you release the windshield wiper arm without a wiper blade and it falls onto the windshield, the windshield may be damaged by the force of the impact. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you have the wiper blades changed at a qualified specialist workshop.

Removing the wiper blade X Remove the SmartKey from the ignition

lock.

X Fold the windshield wiper arm away from

the windshield until it engages.

X Position the wiper blade at right angles.

X Press locking spring :. X Slide wiper blade = with hinge piece ?

from windshield wiper arm ;.

Windshield wipers

101

Installing the wiper blade

: Locking spring ; Windshield wiper arm = Wiper blade ? Hinge piece X Slide new wiper blade = with the recess

onto windshield wiper arm ;.

X Engage locking spring : into the end of

the wiper arm.

X Make sure that wiper blade = is seated

correctly.

X Fold windshield wiper arm ; back onto the

windshield.

Problems with the windshield wipers The windshield wipers are obstructed Leaves or snow, for example, may be obstructing the windshield wiper movement. The wiper motor has been deactivated. X For safety reasons, you should remove the

SmartKey from the ignition lock.

X Remove the cause of the obstruction. X Switch the windshield wipers back on.

The windshield wipers are inoperative The windshield wiper drive is malfunctioning. X Select another wiper speed on the

combination switch.

X Have the windshield wipers checked at a

qualified specialist workshop.

102

Useful information ............................ 104
Overview of climate control sys- tems ................................................... 104
Operating the climate control sys- tem ..................................................... 105
Setting the air vents ......................... 110

103

104 Overview of climate control systems

i Ventilate the vehicle for a brief period

during warm weather, e.g. using the convenience opening feature (Y page 69). This will speed up the cooling process and the desired vehicle interior temperature will be reached more quickly.

i The integrated filter can filter out most

particles of dust, and completely filters out pollen. A clogged filter reduces the amount of air supplied to the vehicle interior. For this reason, you should always observe the interval for replacing the filter, which is specified in the Maintenance Booklet. As it depends on environmental conditions, e.g. heavy air pollution, the interval may be shorter than stated in the Maintenance Booklet.

Useful information

i This Operator's Manual describes all models and all standard and optional equipment of your vehicle available at the time of publication of the Operator's Manual. Country-specific differences are possible. Please note that your vehicle may not be equipped with all features described. This also applies to safety- related systems and functions.

i Please read the information on qualified

specialist workshops (Y page 20).

Overview of climate control systems Important safety notes G WARNING Severe conditions (e.g. strong air pollution) may require replacement of the filter before its scheduled replacement interval. A clogged filter will reduce the air volume to the interior and the windows could fog up, impairing visibility and endangering you and others. Have a blocked filter replaced at a Mercedes- Benz Center as soon as possible. G WARNING Follow the recommended settings for heating and cooling given on the following pages. Otherwise, the windows could fog up, impairing visibility and endangering you and others.

Automatic climate control controls the temperature and the humidity in the vehicle interior and filters undesirable substances from the air. The automatic climate control is only operational when the engine is running4. Optimum operation is only achieved if you drive with the side windows and sliding sunroof closed.

4 The residual heat function can only be switched on/off if the ignition is switched off.

Operating the climate control system 105

Control panel for dual-zone automatic climate control

: To increase/reduce the airflow (Y page 108) To switch climate control on/off (Y page 106)

; To set the temperature, left (Y page 107) = To set the temperature, right (Y page 107) ? To set the air distribution (Y page 107) A ª To switch the rear window defroster on/off (USA only) (Y page 109) A £ To switch the rear window defroster on/off (Canada only) (Y page 109) B To activate/deactivate cooling with air dehumidification (Y page 106)

To activate/deactivate the residual heat function (Y page 110)

C To set climate control to automatic (Y page 107) D To activate/deactivate air-recirculation mode (Y page 110) E ¥ To defrost the windshield (USA only) (Y page 108) E z To defrost the windshield (Canada only) (Y page 108)

Operating the climate control system Notes on using dual-zone automatic climate control The following contains notes and recommendations on optimum use of dual- zone automatic climate control.

RActivate climate control using the à and Á buttons. The indicator lamps above the à and Á buttons light up. RSet the temperature to 72 ‡ (22 †). ROnly use the "defrosting" function briefly

until the windshield is clear again.

ROnly use "air-recirculation" mode briefly, e.g. if there are unpleasant outside odors or when in a tunnel. The windows could

106 Operating the climate control system

otherwise fog up as, in air-recirculation mode, no fresh air is drawn into the vehicle. RUse the residual heat function if you want

to heat or ventilate the vehicle interior when the ignition is switched off. The "residual heat" function can only be activated or deactivated with the ignition switched off.

RAt very low temperatures, the rear window

defroster is only switched on once the vehicle interior has warmed up.

Activating/deactivating climate control Important information G WARNING When the climate control system is deactivated, the outside air supply and circulation are also deactivated. Only choose this setting for a short time. Otherwise the windows could fog up, impairing visibility and endangering you and others.

i Switch on climate control primarily using

the à button (Y page 107).

Activating/deactivating X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To switch on: turn control : clockwise to

the desired position (except position 0) (Y page 105).

X The previously selected settings come into

effect again.

X To switch off: turn control : counter-

clockwise to position 0(Y page 105).

Activating/deactivating the cooling with air dehumidification function Important information The cooling with air dehumidification function is only available when the engine is running. The air inside the vehicle is cooled and dehumidified according to the temperature selected. G WARNING If you switch off the cooling function, the vehicle will not be cooled when weather conditions are warm. The windows can fog up more quickly. Window fogging may impair visibility and endanger you and others.

Condensation may drip from the underside of the vehicle when it is in cooling mode. This is normal and not a sign that there is a malfunction. i The cooling with air dehumidification function uses refrigerant R134a. This coolant does not contain chlorofluorocarbons, and therefore does not damage the ozone layer.

Activating/deactivating ! If the cooling with air dehumidification does not switch on, it is possible that the climate control system has lost coolant. Have the cooling with air dehumidification checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

X To activate: press the Á button.

The indicator lamp in the Á button lights up.

X To switch off: press the Á button.

The indicator lamp in the Á button goes out. The cooling with air dehumidification function has a delayed switch-off feature.

Operating the climate control system 107

Problems with the cooling with air dehumidification function If the indicator lamp in the Á button does not go out or flashes when switched on, the cooling with air dehumidification function is switched off due to a malfunction. You can no longer switch on the cooling with air dehumidification function. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

Setting climate control to automatic G WARNING If you switch off the cooling function, the vehicle will not be cooled when weather conditions are warm. The windows can fog up more quickly. Window fogging may impair visibility and endanger you and others.

In automatic mode, the set temperature is maintained automatically at a constant level. The system automatically regulates the temperature of the dispensed air, the airflow and the air distribution. Automatic mode will achieve optimal operation if cooling with air dehumidification is also activated. If desired, cooling with air dehumidification can be deactivated. X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Set the desired temperature. X To switch on: press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button lights up. Automatic air distribution and airflow are activated.

X To switch off: press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button goes out. Automatic air distribution and airflow are deactivated.

Setting the temperature Different temperatures can be set for the driver's and front-passenger sides.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To increase/reduce: turn controls ; and

= clockwise or counterclockwise (Y page 105). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †).

i If you turn the temperature control on one

side of the vehicle fully clockwise or counterclockwise, you will increase or reduce the temperature on the other side of the vehicle at the same time.

Setting the air distribution You can set the air distribution for the entire vehicle. The symbols for the air distribution have the following meanings: Symbol Meaning M Directs the airflow through the

defroster vents to the windshield and side windows

Q Directs the airflow to the entire

vehicle interior

O Directs the airflow through the

footwell and side air vents

P Directs the airflow through the

center and side air vents

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button goes out.

X Turn control ?(Y page 105) to the

corresponding symbol. The control can also be turned to the area between two symbols.

108 Operating the climate control system

Setting the airflow X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button goes out.

X To increase/reduce: turn control :

clockwise or counterclockwise (Y page 105).

i The airflow from the rear-compartment vents and the center vents is the same.

Defrosting the windshield You can use this function to defrost the windshield or to defrost the inside of the windshield and the side windows. i You should only select the defrosting

function until the windshield is clear again.

i When you switch on the "defrosting"

function using the ¥5 or z6 button, you cannot adjust any of the other settings.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To switch on: press the ¥5 or z6

button. The indicator lamp in the ¥5 or z6
button comes on. The climate control system switches to the following functions: Rcooling with air dehumidification on Rhigh airflow Rhigh temperature Rair distribution to the windshield and

front side windows

Rair-recirculation mode off

i If necessary, also activate the windshield

defroster (Y page 108).

5 USA only. 6 Canada only.

X To deactivate: press the ¥5 or z6

button. The indicator lamp in the ¥5 or z6
button goes off. The previously selected settings come into effect again.

or X Press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button lights up. The indicator lamp in the z button goes out. Airflow and air distribution are set to automatic mode.

Defrosting the windows Windows fogged up on the inside X Activate the defrosting function. X If necessary, activate the windshield

heating (Y page 108).

i You should only select this setting until

the windshield is clear again.

Windows fogged up on the outside X Activate the windshield wipers. X Close the center air vents. When automatic air distribution is switched off: X Turn the air distribution thumbwheel to the

O or P symbol.

i You should only select this setting until

the windshield is clear again.

X If necessary, activate the windshield

heating (Y page 108).

Switching the windshield defroster on/off G WARNING Any accumulation of snow and ice should be removed from the windshield before driving.

Operating the climate control system 109

Otherwise, your vision may be impaired, which could endanger you or others.

i At outside temperatures over

50 ‡ (10 †) the windshield defroster cannot be switched on. Indicator lamp ; lights up briefly when you attempt to activate it and then goes out again.

i The windshield defroster has a high

current draw. You should therefore switch it off as soon as the windshield is clear. The windshield defroster switches off automatically after ten minutes.

i If you switch on the windshield defroster

four times in a row, it switches off automatically after five minutes.

i If too many electrical consumers are

switched on simultaneously and the battery voltage is too low, indicator lamp ; flashes in windshield defroster switch :. After about 30 seconds the windshield defroster switches off.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Press button : on the windshield

defroster. Indicator lamp ; lights up or goes out.

Switching the rear window defroster on/off Activating/deactivating G WARNING Any accumulation of snow and ice should be removed from the rear window before driving. Visibility could otherwise be impaired, endangering you and others.

The rear window defroster has a high current draw. You should therefore switch it off as soon as the window is clear. as it only switches off automatically after several minutes. If the battery voltage is too low, the rear window defroster may switch off. X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To switch on, press the ª7 or £8

button. The indicator lamp in the ª7 or £8
button goes off.

Problems with the rear window defroster If the indicator lamp in the ª7 or £8
rear window defroster button flashes, the on- board voltage is too low. The rear window defroster has deactivated prematurely or cannot be activated. X Switch off any consumers that are not required, e.g. reading lamps or interior lighting. When the battery is sufficiently charged, the rear window defroster is activated again automatically.

7 USA only. 8 Canada only.

110 Setting the air vents

Activating/deactivating air- recirculation mode You can deactivate the flow of fresh air if unpleasant odors are entering the vehicle from outside. The air already inside the vehicle will then be recirculated. G WARNING Fogged windows impair visibility, endangering you and others. If the windows begin to fog on the inside, switching off the air recirculation mode immediately should clear interior window fogging. If interior window fogging persists, make sure the air conditioning is activated, or press button z or ¥.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To switch on: press the g button.

The indicator lamp in the g button lights up.

i Air-recirculation mode is activated

automatically at high outside temperatures. When air-recirculation mode is activated automatically, the indicator lamp in the g button is not lit. Outside air is added after about 30
minutes.

X To switch off: press the g button.

The indicator lamp in the g button goes out.

i Air-recirculation mode switches off

automatically: Rafter approximately five minutes if

outside temperatures are less than about 41 ‡ (5 †)

Rafter approximately five minutes if cooling with air dehumidification is deactivated

Rafter approximately 30 minutes if outside

temperatures are over about 41 ‡ (5 †)

Activating/deactivating the residual heat function It is possible to make use of the residual heat of the engine to continue heating the stationary vehicle for up to 30 minutes after the engine has been switched off. The heating time depends on the coolant temperature and on the interior temperature that has been set. i The blower will run at a low speed

regardless of the airflow setting.

i If you activate the residual heat function at high temperatures, only the ventilation will be activated.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the

ignition lock or remove it.

X To activate: press the Á button.

The indicator lamp in the Á button lights up.

X To switch off: press the Á button.

The indicator lamp in the Á button goes out.

i Residual heat is deactivated

automatically: Rafter about 30 minutes Rwhen the ignition is switched on Rif the battery voltage drops Rif the coolant temperature is too low

Setting the air vents Important safety notes G WARNING When operating the climate control, the air that enters the passenger compartment through the air vents can be very hot or very cold (depending on the set temperature). This could cause burns or frostbite to unprotected skin in the immediate area of the air vents. Always keep sufficient distance between unprotected parts of the body and the air vents. If necessary, use the air distribution

adjustment to direct the air to air vents in the vehicle interior that are not in the immediate area of unprotected skin.

In order to ensure the direct flow of fresh air through the air vents into the vehicle interior, please observe the following notes: Rkeep the air intake grille on the hood free of blockages, such as ice, snow or leaves Rnever cover the air vents or air intake grille

in the vehicle interior.

i For virtually draft-free ventilation, adjust

the sliders of the air vents to the center position.

Setting the center air vents

Center air vents : Center air vent, left ; Center air vent, right = Center vent thumbwheel, right ? Center vent thumbwheel, left X To open/close: turn thumbwheels =

and ? to the right or left.

Setting the air vents

111

Setting the side air vents

Side air vents : Side air vent ; Swiveling side air vent = Control for side air vent X To open/close: turn thumbwheel = to the

left or right.

Setting the rear-compartment air vents

X To open/close: turn thumbwheel : up or

down.

X To set the air direction: move slider ; for the corresponding rear-compartment air vent to the left, right, up or down.

112

Useful information ............................ 114
Breaking-in notes .............................. 114
Driving ............................................... 114
Automatic transmission ................... 119
Refueling ............................................ 124
Parking ............................................... 127
Driving tips ........................................ 129
Driving systems ................................ 139
Off-road driving systems .................. 145

113

114 Driving

Useful information

i This Operator's Manual describes all models and all standard and optional equipment of your vehicle available at the time of publication of the Operator's Manual. Country-specific differences are possible. Please note that your vehicle may not be equipped with all features described. This also applies to safety- related systems and functions.

i Please read the information on qualified

specialist workshops (Y page 20).

Breaking-in notes The first 1000 miles (1500 km) The more you look after the engine when it is new, the more satisfied you will be with its performance in the future. RDrive at varying vehicle speeds and engine speeds for the first 1000 miles (1500 km) for this reason.

RAvoid overstraining the vehicle during this

period, e.g. driving at full throttle.

RChange gear in good time, at the latest

when the tachometer needle is 2/3 of the way to the red area in the tachometer display.

RDo not manually shift to a lower gear to

brake the vehicle.

RIf possible, do not depress the accelerator

pedal past the point of resistance (kickdown).

ROnly select shift ranges 3, 2 or 1 when

driving slowly, e.g. in mountainous terrain. After 1000 miles (1500 km), you can increase the engine speed gradually and bring the vehicle up to full speed.

Additional breaking-in notes for AMG vehicles: Rdo not drive faster than 85 mph

(140 km/h) in the first 1000 miles (1500 km).

Ronly allow the engine to reach a maximum

engine speed of 4500 rpm briefly.

Rchange gear in good time. Ravoid off-road use before the differential oil

change at 2000 miles (3000 km).

i You should also observe these breaking- in notes if the engine or parts of the drive train on your vehicle have been replaced.

i Always observe the respective speed

restrictions.

Driving Important safety notes G WARNING Make sure absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure the pedals still have sufficient clearance. During sudden driving or braking maneuvers the objects could get caught between the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury. G WARNING On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control. G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly

on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.

! Warm up the engine quickly. Do not use the engine's full performance until it has reached operating temperature. Only shift the automatic transmission to the desired drive position when the vehicle is stationary. Where possible, avoid spinning the drive wheels when pulling away on slippery roads. You could otherwise damage the drive train.

! Avoid high engine speeds when the

engine is cold. The engine's service life could otherwise be significantly shortened. Do not use the engine's full performance until it has reached operating temperature.

SmartKey positions

g To remove the SmartKey 1 Power supply for some consumers, such

as the windshield wipers

2 Ignition (power supply for all consumers)

and drive position 3 To start the engine

Driving 115

i You can only remove the SmartKey if: Rthe SmartKey is in position 0 in the

ignition lock.

Rthe automatic transmission selector

lever is in P.

As soon as the ignition is switched on, all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster light up. If an indicator lamp does not go out after the engine is started or if it lights up while the vehicle is in motion, see (Y page 180). If the SmartKey is in position 0 in the ignition lock for an extended period of time, it can no longer be turned in the ignition lock. The steering is then locked. To unlock, remove the SmartKey and reinsert it into the ignition lock. The steering is locked when you remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock. X Remove the SmartKey when the engine is

switched off. The starter battery could otherwise be discharged.

If you cannot turn the SmartKey in the ignition lock, the starter battery may not be charged sufficiently. X Check the starter battery and charge if

necessary (Y page 231).

or X Jump-start the vehicle (Y page 233).

Starting the engine Important safety notes G WARNING Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause unconsciousness and possible death. Do not run the engine in confined areas (such as a garage) which are not properly ventilated. If you think that exhaust gas fumes are entering the vehicle while driving, have the cause determined and corrected immediately. If you must drive under these

116 Driving

conditions, drive only with at least one window fully open at all times.

! Do not depress the accelerator pedal

when starting the engine.

Starting procedure X Shift the automatic transmission to

position P. The transmission position display in the multifunction display shows P.

i Further information about the automatic

transmission (Y page 119).

i If you depress the brake when starting the engine, pedal travel is unusually long and there is less pedal resistance.