2013 Mercedes-benz GL Class Owners Manual

Rremove roof racks once you no longer need

them.

Ra regularly serviced vehicle will contribute

to environmental protection. You should therefore adhere to the service intervals. Ralways have service work carried out at a

qualified specialist workshop.

Personal driving style: Rdo not depress the accelerator pedal when

starting the engine.

Rdo not warm up the engine when the vehicle

is stationary.

Rdrive carefully and maintain a safe distance

from the vehicle in front.

Introduction

23

Ravoid frequent, sudden acceleration. Rchange gear in good time and use each gear only up to Ô of its maximum engine speed. Rswitch off the engine in stationary traffic.

Environmental concerns and recommendations Wherever the operating instructions require you to dispose of materials, first try to regenerate or re-use them. Observe the relevant environmental rules and regulations when disposing of materials. In this way you will help to protect the environment.

Product information

Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use genuine Mercedes-Benz parts, conversion parts and accessories that have been approved for your vehicle. Mercedes-Benz tests genuine parts as well as conversion parts and accessories that have been specifically approved for your vehicle for their reliability, safety and suitability. Despite ongoing market research, Mercedes-Benz is unable to assess other parts. Therefore, Mercedes-Benz accepts no responsibility for the use of such parts in Mercedes-Benz vehicles. This is also the case, even if they have been independently or officially approved. The use of non-approved parts could affect your vehicle's operating safety. Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts, approved conversion parts and accessories are available from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Here, you will receive advice about permissible technical modifications, and the parts will be professionally installed.

24

Introduction

Operator's Manual General notes Before you first drive off, read this Operator's Manual carefully and familiarize yourself with your vehicle. For your own safety and a longer vehicle life, follow the instructions and warning notices in this manual. Disregarding them may lead to damage to the vehicle or personal injury. Vehicle damage resulting from the disregard of the instructions is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Vehicle equipment This Operator's Manual describes all models and all standard and optional equipment of your vehicle available at the time of going to print. 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. The equipment in your vehicle may therefore differ from some of the descriptions or illustrations. The original purchase agreement lists all systems installed in your vehicle. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center if you have any questions about equipment or operation. The Operator's Manual and Maintenance Booklet are important documents and should be kept in the vehicle.

Service and vehicle operation Service and literature Your vehicle is covered under the terms of the warranties printed in the Service and Warranty Information booklet. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will exchange or repair any defective parts originally installed in the vehicle in accordance with the terms of the following warranties: RNew Vehicle Limited Warranty REmission Systems Warranty REmission Performance Warranty RCalifornia, Connecticut, Maine,

Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont Emission Control Systems Warranty

RState warranty enforcement laws (lemon

laws)

Information for customers in California Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price or lease price, if after a reasonable number of repair attempts Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC and/or its authorized repair or service facilities fail to fix one or more substantial defects or malfunctions in the vehicle that are covered by its express warranty. During the period of 18 months from original delivery of the vehicle or the accumulation of 18,000 miles (approximately 29,000 km) on the odometer of the vehicle, whichever occurs first, a reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed for a retail buyer or lessee if one or more of the following occurs: (1) the same substantial defect or

malfunction results in a condition that is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle is driven, that defect or malfunction has been subject to repair two or more times, and you have directly

Introduction

25

notified Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC in writing of the need for its repair,

(2) the same substantial defect or

malfunction of a less serious nature than category (1) has been subject to repair four or more times and you have directly notified us in writing of the need for its repair, or

(3) the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of the same or different substantial defects or malfunctions for a cumulative total of more than 30 calendar days.

Please send your written notice to: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC Customer Assistance Center One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350

Maintenance The Service and Warranty Booklet describes all the necessary maintenance work which should be done at regular intervals. Always have the Service and Warranty Booklet with you when you bring the vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. The service advisor will record every service for you in the Service and Warranty Booklet.

Roadside Assistance The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program offers technical help in the event of a breakdown. Calls to the toll-free Roadside Assistance Hotline are answered by our agents 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 1-800-FOR-MERCedes(1-800-367-6372) (USA) 1-800-387-0100 (Canada) For additional information, refer to the Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program brochure (USA) or the "Roadside Assistance" section in the Service and Warranty booklet (Canada). You will find both in your vehicle literature portfolio.

Change of address or change of ownership In the event of a change of address, please send us the "Notification of Address Change" in the Service and Guarantee booklet or simply call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (USA) at the hotline number 1-800-FOR-MERCedes(1-800-367-6372) or Customer Service Center (Canada) at 1-800-387-0100. This will assist us in contacting you in a timely manner should the need arise. If you sell your Mercedes, please leave the entire literature in the vehicle so that it is available to the next owner. If you have purchased a used car, please send us the "Notification of Used Car Purchase" in the Service and Guarantee booklet or simply call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (USA) at the hotline number 1-800-FOR-MERCedes(1-800-367-6372) or Customer Service (Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.

Vehicle operation outside the USA and Canada If you plan to operate your vehicle in foreign countries, please be aware that: Rservice facilities or replacement parts may

not be readily available.

Runleaded fuel for vehicles with a catalytic converter may not be available. Leaded fuel may cause damage to the catalytic converter.

Rthe fuel may have a considerably lower octane rating. Unsuitable fuel can cause engine damage.

Some Mercedes-Benz models are available for delivery in Europe through our European Delivery Program. For details, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or write to one of the following addresses. In the USA

26

Introduction

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC European Delivery Department One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350
In Canada Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. European Delivery Department 98 Vanderhoof Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4G 4C9

Sports Utility Vehicle G WARNING This Sport Utility Vehicle is designed for both on-road and off-road use. It can go places and perform tasks for which conventional 2-wheel drive passenger cars are not intended. This vehicle will handle and maneuver differently from conventional passenger cars in driving conditions which may occur on streets, highways and off-road use. This vehicle has a higher ground clearance and a higher center of gravity than many passenger cars. As with other vehicles of this type, if you make sharp turns at excessive speeds or abrupt maneuvers, the vehicle may roll over or may go out of control and crash. Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. Failure to operate this vehicle safely may result in an accident, rollover of the vehicle, and severe or fatal injury. Before you start to drive this vehicle, read the Operator's Manual. Take time to become familiar with the driving characteristics of this vehicle. Be sure you are familiar with all vehicle controls. Learn how your vehicle handles on different road surfaces. Do not attempt sharp turns at excessive speeds or abrupt maneuvers or other unsafe driving actions that can cause loss of vehicle control. When driving off-road or working the vehicle hard, do not overload it. And, always wear your seat belts at all times. In a rollover crash,

an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.

Operating safety Important safety notes G WARNING Work improperly carried out on electronic components and associated software could cause them to cease functioning. Because the vehicle's electronic components are interconnected, any modifications made may produce an undesired effect on other systems. Electronic malfunctions could seriously impair the operating safety of your vehicle. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for repairs or modifications to electronic components. Other improper work or modifications on the vehicle could also have a negative impact on the operating safety of the vehicle. Some safety systems only function when the engine is running. You should therefore never turn off the engine while driving. G WARNING Heavy blows against the vehicle underbody or tires/wheels may cause serious damage and impair the operating safety of your vehicle. Such blows can be caused, for example, by running over an obstacle, road debris or a pothole. If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that damage to your vehicle has occurred: Rturn on your hazard warning flashers. Rslow down carefully. Rdrive with caution to an area which is a safe

distance from the road.

Inspect the vehicle underbody and tires/ wheels for possible damage. If the vehicle appears unsafe, have it towed to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or other

Introduction

27

qualified maintenance or repair facility for further inspection or repairs.

Declarations of conformity Vehicle components which receive and/or transmit radio waves USA: "The wireless devices of this vehicle comply with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1) These devices may not cause harmful interference, and 2) These devices must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment." Canada: "The wireless devices of this vehicle comply with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) These devices may not cause interference, and (2) These devices must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device."

Diagnostics connection G WARNING If you connect equipment to the on-board diagnostics connection, it can affect the operation of the vehicle systems. This can impair the operating safety of your vehicle while driving. There is a risk of an accident. Do not connect any equipment to the on- board diagnostics connection. G WARNING Loose equipment or equipment cables which are connected to the on-board diagnostics connection can obstruct the area around the pedals. The equipment or the cables could come between the pedals in the event of

sudden braking or acceleration. This may affect the function of the pedals. There is a risk of an accident. Do not attach any equipment or cables in the driver's footwell.

! If the engine is switched off and

equipment on the diagnostics connection is used, the starter battery may discharge. The diagnostics connection is only intended for the connection of diagnostic equipment at a qualified specialist workshop. Connecting equipment to the diagnostics connection can, for example, lead to emissions monitoring information being reset. This may lead to the vehicle failing to meet the requirements of the next emissions test during the main inspection.

Qualified specialist workshop An authorized Mercedes-Benz Center is a qualified specialist workshop. It has the necessary specialist knowledge, tools and qualifications to correctly carry out the work required on your vehicle. This is especially the case for work relevant to safety. Observe the notes in the Maintenance Booklet. Always have the following work carried out at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center: Rwork relevant to safety Rservice and maintenance work Rrepair work Ralterations, installation work and

modifications

Rwork on electronic components

Correct use G WARNING There are various warning stickers affixed to your vehicle. Their purpose is to alert you and others to various dangers. Therefore, do not

28

Introduction

remove any warning stickers unless the sticker clearly states that you may do so. If you remove any warning stickers, you or others could fail to recognize certain dangers and be injured.

When driving your vehicle observe the following information: Rthe safety notes in this manual Rthe Technical Data section in this manual Rtraffic rules and regulations Rlaws and safety standards pertaining to

motor vehicles

Problems with your vehicle If you should experience a problem with your vehicle, particularly one that you believe may affect its safe operation, we urge you to contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the problem diagnosed and rectified. If the problem is not resolved to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem again with a Mercedes-Benz Center or contact us at one of the following addresses. In the USA Customer Assistance Center Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350
In Canada Customer Relations Department Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. 98 Vanderhoof Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4G 4C9

Reporting safety defects USA only: The following text is reproduced as required of all manufacturers according to Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575
pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966.

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236(TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to http://www.safercar.gov; or write to: Administrator, NHTSA, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590. You can obtain additional information about vehicle safety from: http://www.safercar.gov

Limited Warranty ! Follow the instructions in this manual

about the proper operation of your vehicle as well as about possible vehicle damage. Damage to your vehicle that arises from culpable contraventions against these instructions is not covered either by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty or by the New or Used-Vehicle Warranty.

Data stored in the vehicle Information about electronic data acquisition in the vehicle (Including notice pursuant to California Code § 9951) Your vehicle records electronic data. If your vehicle is equipped with mbrace (Canada: TELE AID), data is transmitted in the event of an accident.

This information helps, for example, to test vehicle systems after an accident and to continually improve vehicle safety. Daimler AG can access this data and submit it: Rfor safety research or vehicle diagnosis

purposes

Rwith the consent of the vehicle owner Ron the instruction of prosecuting

authorities

Rfor use in arbitration of disputes that

involve Daimler AG, its affiliates or its sales and service organizations

Ras otherwise required or permitted by law. Please check your mbrace (Canada: TELE AID) purchase agreement to find out more about data that can be recorded and transmitted by this system.

Introduction

29

30

Cockpit ................................................. 32
Instrument cluster .............................. 33
Multifunction steering wheel ............. 35
Center console .................................... 36
Overhead control panel ...................... 39
Door control panel .............................. 40

31

32

Cockpit

Cockpit

Function

Page

Function

Page

: Steering wheel paddle

shifters

; Combination switch = Instrument cluster ? Horn A DIRECT SELECT lever B PARKTRONIC warning

display

C Overhead control panel D Climate control systems E Ignition lock

Start/Stop button

170
125
33

166

212
39
138
159
159

F Adjusting the steering

wheel manually

G Adjusting the steering

wheel electrically Steering wheel heating

H Cruise control lever I Opening the hood J Diagnostics connection K Electric parking brake L Light switch M Night View Assist Plus

114

114
115
191
360
27
179
122
232

Instrument cluster Displays and controls

Instrument cluster

33

Function

: Speedometer with

segments ; Fuel gauge = Tachometer

Page

266

266

Function

? Coolant temperature A Multifunction display B Instrument lighting

Page 265
268
265

34

Instrument cluster

Warning and indicator lamps

Function

Page

: L Low-beam

headlamps

; T Parking lamps = ÷ ESP® ? K High-beam

headlamps

A Electric parking brake (red)

F (USA only) ! (Canada only)

B ! Electric parking brake

(yellow)

C · Distance warning D #! Turn signals E h Tire pressure monitor

123
124

320

126
323

323
327
125
328

Function F 6 SRS G ü Seat belt H % Diesel engine:

preglow

I ? Coolant J R Rear fog lamp K ; Check Engine L 8 Reserve fuel M å ESP® OFF N ! ABS O Braking

$ (USA only) J (Canada only)

Page 323
316

161
325
124
324
324

320
318
317

Multifunction steering wheel

35

Multifunction steering wheel

Page 268

Function

A =;

Selects a menu 9: Selects a submenu or scrolls through lists Confirms your selection Hides display messages

272

B % Back Switches off the Voice Control System; see the separate operating instructions

Page

266

266

266
281

266

Function

: Multifunction display ; COMAND display; see the

separate Operating Instructions

= ?

Switches on the Voice Control System; see the separate operating instructions

? ~

Rejects or ends a call Exits phone book/redial memory Makes or accepts a call Switches to the redial memory WX Adjusts the volume Mute

36

Center console

Center console Center console, upper section

Function

Page

Function

: COMAND; see the separate

operating instructions

; c Seat heating = s Seat ventilation ? c PARKTRONIC A ¤ ECO start/stop

function

113
114
212

162

B £ Hazard warning

lamps

C 45 Indicator lamp D å ESP®

Page

126
49

71

Center console, lower section

Center console

37

i Vehicles with ON&OFFROAD menu

Function

Function

F Cup holders

Ashtray Cigarette lighter Power socket

G COMAND controller; see

the separate operating instructions

H d ON&OFFROAD menu

button

I + LOW RANGE off-road

gear

Page 338
341
342
342

254

252

J Á Level control K Ã DSR (Downhill Speed

Regulation)

L p Manual drive program M Selector wheel for on-road

programs Selector wheel for off-road programs

N Stowage compartment

Page 204

248
171

245

250
332

38

Center console

i Vehicles without ON&OFFROAD menu

and AMG vehicles

Function

F Cup holders

Ashtray Cigarette lighter Power socket

G COMAND controller; see

the separate operating instructions

H Ç Selects off-road

program Selects the drive program (AMG vehicles)

Page 338
341
342
342

250

170

Function

I Ã DSR (Downhill Speed

Regulation)

J Á Level control K e Adaptive Damping

System à Adjusts AMG adaptive damping system (AMG vehicles)

L Stowage compartment

Page

248
209

208

211
332

Overhead control panel

Overhead control panel

39

Page 332

347

345

347
117

355

Function

Page

Function

: p Switches the left-

hand reading lamp on/off ; c Switches the front

interior lighting on

= u Switches the rear interior lighting on/off

? | Switches the front

interior lighting/automatic interior lighting control off A p Switches the right- hand reading lamp on/off

B 2 Opens/closes the

sliding sunroof 3 Opens/closes the panorama roof with power tilt/sliding panel with roller sunblinds

C Eyeglasses compartment D F Roadside Assistance

call button (mbrace system)

E G SOS button (mbrace

system)

F ï MB Info call button

(mbrace system) G Rear-view mirror H Buttons for the garage door

opener

I Microphone for mbrace (emergency call system) telephone and the Voice Control System1

129

130

130

130

129

99

100

1 Voice Control System only available together with COMAND. Observe the additional operating instructions.

40 Door control panel

Door control panel

Function

: Opens the door ; %& Unlocks/locks

the vehicle

= r45=

Stores settings for the seat, exterior mirrors and steering wheel (memory function)

? Adjusts the seats

A 7Zö\ Adjusts and folds the exterior mirrors in/out electrically

Page 87

87

120
105

117

Function

Page

B W Opens/closes the

side windows

C ± Opens/closes the

hinged power side windows

D q Opens/closes the

tailgate

E n Activates/

deactivates the override feature for the side windows in the rear compartment

94

94

92

65

Useful information .............................. 42
Panic alarm .......................................... 42
Occupant safety .................................. 42
Children in the vehicle ........................ 59
Driving safety systems ....................... 66
Theft deterrent locking system ......... 76

41

42 Occupant safety

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 Read the information on qualified specialist workshops: (Y page 27).

Panic alarm

X To activate: press ! button : for at

least one second. An alarm sounds and the exterior lighting flashes.

X To deactivate: press ! button :

again.

or X Insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock. or X Press the KEYLESS-GO Start/Stop button.

The KEYLESS-GO key must be in the vehicle.

i 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 interference, and 2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. The Product label with FCC ID and IC certification number can be found in the battery case of the SmartKey.

i Canada only:

This device complies with RSS-Gen of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference, and 2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. The Product label with FCC ID and IC certification number can be found in the battery case of the SmartKey.

Occupant safety Important safety notes G WARNING Modifications to or work improperly conducted on restraint system components or their wiring, as well as tampering with interconnected electronic systems, can lead to the restraint systems no longer functioning as intended. Air bags or Emergency Tensioning Devices (ETDs), for example, could deploy inadvertently or fail to deploy in accidents although the deceleration threshold for air bag deployment is exceeded. Therefore, never modify the restraint systems. Do not

Occupant safety

43

tamper with electronic components or their software.

effect of the forces to which occupants are subjected during an accident.

In this section, you will learn the most important facts about the restraint system components of the vehicle. The restraint system consists of: Rseat belts Rchild restraint systems RLATCH-type (ISOFIX) child seat anchors Additional protection is provided by: RSRS (Supplemental Restraint System) RPRE-SAFE® Rair bag system components with:

- PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF indicator lamp

front-passenger seat with Occupant Classification System (OCS)

The different air bag systems work independently of each other. The protective functions of the system work in conjunction with each other. Not all air bags are always deployed in an accident. i See "Children in the vehicle" for

information on infants and children traveling with you in the vehicle restraint systems for infants and children (Y page 59).

SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) Introduction SRS consists of: R6 SRS warning lamp RAir bags RThe air bag control unit with crash sensors REmergency Tensioning Devices for the

front seat belts and the outer seat belts in the rear

RBelt force limiters SRS reduces the risk of occupants coming into contact with the vehicle's interior in the event of an accident. It can also reduce the

SRS warning lamp G WARNING The SRS self-check has detected a malfunction if the 6 SRS indicator lamp: Rdoes not light up at all Rdoes not go out after approximately four

seconds after the engine is started

Rlights up after the engine is started or while

the vehicle is in motion

For your safety, Mercedes-Benz strongly recommends that you have the system checked as soon as possible at a qualified specialist workshop. SRS may otherwise fail to activate when it is needed in the event of an accident, which could lead to serious or fatal injuries. SRS might also be activated unexpectedly and unnecessarily, which could also result in injury. In addition, work carried out improperly on SRS may render SRS inoperative or cause unintended air bag deployment. Work on the SRS system should only be carried out by qualified specialist personnel. Consult a qualified specialist workshop. If it is necessary to modify an air bag system to accommodate a person with disabilities, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for details. USA only: for further information, contact our Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372).

SRS functions are checked regularly when you switch on the ignition and when the engine is running. Therefore, malfunctions can be detected in good time. The 6 SRS warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up when the ignition is switched on. It goes out no later than a few seconds after the engine is started. The SRS components are in operational readiness when the 6 SRS warning lamp goes out while the engine is running.

44 Occupant safety

Safety guidelines for seat belts, Emergency Tensioning Devices (ETDs) and air bags G WARNING RDamaged seat belts or seat belts that have been subjected to stress in an accident must be replaced. Their anchoring points must also be checked. Only use seat belts installed or supplied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

RAir bags and pyrotechnic Emergency

Tensioning Devices (ETDs) contain perchlorate material, which may require special handling and regard for the environment. Check your national disposal guidelines. California residents, see www.dtsc.ca.gov/HazardousWaste/ Perchlorate/index.cfm.

RAir bags and ETDs are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. An air bag or ETD that has deployed must be replaced. PRE- SAFE® has electrically operated reversible belt tensioners in addition to the pyrotechnic ETDs.

RDo not pass seat belts over sharp edges.

They could tear.

RDo not make any modification that could

change the effectiveness of the seat belts. RDo not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be able to provide adequate protection. RNo modifications of any kind may be made

to any components or wiring of the SRS. RDo not change or remove any component

or part of the SRS.

RDo not install additional trim material, seat

covers, badges, etc. to the: - padded steering wheel boss - knee bag covers - outer side of front seat bolsters - outer side of rear bench seat backrest

front-passenger air bag cover

seat bolsters roof lining trim

RDo not install additional electrical/

electronic equipment on or near SRS components and wiring.

RKeep area between air bags and occupants

free of objects (e.g. packages, purses, umbrellas, etc.).

RDo not hang items such as coat hangers from the coat hooks or handles over the door. These items may be thrown around in the vehicle and cause head and other injuries when the window curtain air bag is deployed.

RAir bag system components will be hot after an air bag has inflated. Do not touch them.

RNever place your feet on the instrument panel, dashboard, or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

RImproper repair work on the SRS creates a

risk of rendering the SRS inoperative or causing unintended air bag deployment. Work on the SRS must therefore only be performed by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

RFor your protection and the protection of others, when scrapping the air bag unit or ETD, our safety instructions must be followed. These instructions are available from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

RGiven the considerable deployment speed, required inflation volume, and the material of the air bags, there is the possibility of abrasions or other, potentially more serious injuries resulting from air bag deployment.

If you sell your vehicle, Mercedes-Benz strongly recommends that you inform the subsequent owner that the vehicle is equipped with SRS. Also, refer them to the applicable section in the Operator's Manual.

Air bags Important safety notes G WARNING Air bags are designed to reduce the incidence of injuries and fatalities in certain situations: Rfrontal impacts (driver's and front-

passenger front air bags and driver's knee bag)

Rside impacts (side impact air bags and

window curtain air bags)

Rrollover (window curtain air bags) However, no system available today can completely eliminate injuries and fatalities. When the air bags are deployed, a small amount of powder is released. The powder generally does not constitute a health hazard and does not indicate that there is a fire in the vehicle. In order to prevent potential breathing difficulties, you should leave the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have any breathing difficulty but cannot get out of the vehicle after the air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door. G WARNING In order to reduce the potential danger of injuries caused during the deployment of the front air bags, the driver and front passenger must always be correctly seated and wear their seat belts. For maximum protection in the event of a collision, you must always be in the normal seat position with your back against the backrest. Fasten your seat belt and make sure that it is correctly positioned on your body.

Occupant safety

45

As the air bag inflates with considerable speed and force, a proper seating position and correct positioning of the hands on the steering wheel will help to keep you at a safe distance from the air bag. Occupants who are not wearing their seat belt, are not seated properly or are too close to the air bag can be seriously injured or killed by an air bag, as it inflates with great force instantaneously: Rsit with the seat belt fastened correctly and in a position that is as upright as possible with your back against the backrest. Rmove the driver's seat as far back as

possible, still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls. The distance from the center of the driver's chest to the center of the air bag cover on the steering wheel must be at least 10 inches (25 cm). You should be able to accomplish this by adjusting the seat and steering wheel. If you have any difficulties, please contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Rdo not lean your head or chest close to the

steering wheel or dashboard.

Ronly hold the steering wheel on the outside. Placing hands and arms inside the rim can increase the risk and potential severity of hand/arm injury if the driver front air bag inflates.

Radjust the front-passenger seat as far back as possible from the dashboard when the seat is occupied.

Roccupants, especially children, should

never place their bodies or lean their heads in the area of the door where the side impact air bag inflates. This could result in serious or fatal injuries should the side impact air bag be deployed. Always sit as upright as possible, wear the seat belt properly and use an appropriately sized infant restraint, toddler restraint or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in severe injuries to you or other occupants.

46 Occupant safety

If you sell your vehicle, it is important that you make the buyer aware of this safety information. Be sure to give the buyer this Operator's Manual. G WARNING Accident research shows that the safest place for children in an automobile is in a rear seat. A side impact air bag related injury may occur if occupants, especially children, are not properly seated or restrained when next to a side impact air bag which needs to deploy rapidly in a side impact in order to do its job. To help avoid the possibility of injury, please follow these guidelines:

(1)

(2)

Always sit as upright as possible and use the seat belts properly. Make sure that children 12 years old and under use an appropriately sized child restraint, infant restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. Always wear seat belts properly.

If the air bags are deployed, you will hear a bang, and a small amount of powder may also be released. Only in rare cases will the bang affect your hearing. The powder that is released generally does not constitute a health hazard. The 6 SRS warning lamp lights up. The air bags are deployed if the air bag control unit detects the need for deployment. Only in the event of such a situation will the air bags provide their supplemental protection. If the driver and front passenger do not wear their seat belts, it is not possible for the air bags to provide their supplemental protection. In the event of other types of impacts and impacts below air bag deployment thresholds, the air bags will not deploy. The driver and passengers will then be protected to the extent possible by a properly fastened seat belt. A properly fastened seat belt is also

needed to provide the best possible protection in a rollover. Air bags provide additional protection; they are not, however, a substitute for seat belts. All vehicle occupants must fasten their seat belts regardless of whether your vehicle is equipped with air bags or not. It is important for your safety and that of your passengers to have deployed air bags replaced and to have any malfunctioning air bags repaired. This will help to make sure the air bags continue to perform their protective function for the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash.

Front air bags

Driver's air bag : deploys in front of the steering wheel; front-passenger front air bag ; deploys in front of and above the glove box. The front air bags increase protection for the driver's and front-passenger's head and chest. They are deployed: Rin the event of certain frontal impacts Rif the system determines that air bag

deployment can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt

Rdepending on whether the seat belt is being

used

Rindependently of other air bags in the

vehicle

If the vehicle overturns, the front air bags are generally not deployed. If the system detects

high vehicle deceleration in a longitudinal direction, the front air bags are deployed. When a child restraint system is installed on the front-passenger seat and the 4
PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp in the center console does not light up: Ra child restraint system without a

transponder for the air bag deactivation system is installed or

Ra child restraint system with a transponder

has not been installed properly.

Your vehicle has adaptive, two-stage front air bags. In the event of a collision, the air bag control unit evaluates the vehicle deceleration. In the first deployment stage, the front air bag is filled with enough propellant gas to reduce the risk of injuries. The front air bag is fully deployed if a second deployment threshold is exceeded within a few milliseconds. The deployment of front-passenger front air bag ; is also influenced by the weight category of the front passenger, which is determined by the Occupant Classification System (OCS) (Y page 49). The lighter the passenger side occupant, the higher the vehicle deceleration rate required (predicted at the start of the impact) for second-stage inflation of the front-passenger front air bag. In the second stage, the front air bags are inflated with the maximum amount of propellant gas available. The front air bags are not deployed in situations where a low impact severity is predicted. You will then be protected by the fastened seat belt. Front-passenger front air bag ; will only deploy if: Rthe system, based on the OCS weight sensor readings, has detected that the front-passenger seat is occupied.

Rthe 45 indicator lamp on the center

console is not lit (Y page 49).

Rthe air bag control unit predicts a high

impact severity.

Occupant safety

47

Driver's knee bag

Driver's knee bag : deploys under the steering column. The driver's knee bag is always deployed along with the driver's front air bag. The driver's knee bag is designed to operate together with the front air bags in frontal impacts if certain thresholds are exceeded. The driver's knee bag operates best in conjunction with correctly positioned and fastened seat belts. The driver's knee bag increases protection of the driver against: Rknee injuries Rthigh injuries Rlower leg injuries

Side impact air bags G WARNING Only use seat covers which have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle model. Using other seat covers may interfere with or prevent the deployment of the side impact air bags. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability. G WARNING The pressure sensors for side impact air bag control are located in the doors. Do not modify any components of the doors or door trim panels including, for example, the addition of door speakers. Improper repair work on the doors or the modification or addition of components to the

48 Occupant safety

doors create a risk of rendering the side impact air bags inoperative or causing unintended air bag deployment. Work on the doors must therefore only be performed by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

over, and the system determines that side impact air bag deployment can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt. Side impact air bags will not deploy in side impacts which do not exceed the system's preset deployment thresholds for lateral acceleration/deceleration. You will then be protected by the fastened seat belt. The side impact air bag on the front- passenger side is not deployed in the following situations: Rthe OCS system detects that the front-

passenger seat is not occupied, and Rthe front-passenger seat belt is not

fastened.

Front side impact air bags : and side impact air bags in the 2nd row of seats ; inflate next to the outer seat cushion. When deployed, the side impact air bags offer additional protection for the thorax and, on the front seats, the pelvis of the vehicle occupants on the side of the vehicle on which the impact occurs. However, they do not protect the: Rhead Rneck Rarms The side impact air bags are deployed: Ron the side on which an impact occurs Rat the start of an accident with a high rate

of lateral vehicle deceleration or acceleration, e.g. in a side impact

Rregardless of whether the seat belt on the driver's seat and the outer seats of the 2nd row of seats is used

Rindependently of the front air bags Rindependently of the ETDs If the vehicle rolls over, the side impact air bags are generally not deployed. side impact air bags are deployed if the system detects high vehicle deceleration or acceleration in a lateral direction, or also if the vehicle rolls

The side impact air bag on the front- passenger side will deploy if the front- passenger seat belt is fastened, regardless of whether the front-passenger seat is occupied or not.

Window curtain air bags

Window curtain air bags : enhance the level of protection for the head, but not chest or arms, of the vehicle occupants on the side of the vehicle on which the impact occurs. The window curtain air bags are integrated into the side of the roof frame and deploy in the area extending from the front door (A- pillar) to the rear side window (D-pillar).

Window curtain air bags are deployed: Rat the start of an accident with a high rate

of lateral vehicle deceleration or acceleration, e.g. in a side impact

Ron the side on which an impact occurs Ron the driver's side and passenger side, in

the event of a vehicle rollover and if the system determines that air bag deployment can offer the vehicle occupants additional protection to that provided by the seat belt

Rindependently of the use of the seat belt Rregardless of whether the front-passenger

seat is occupied

Rindependently of the front air bags Window curtain air bags will not deploy in impacts which do not exceed the system's preset deployment thresholds for lateral acceleration/deceleration. You will then be protected by the fastened seat belt.

Occupant Classification System (OCS) Method of operation G WARNING If the 45 indicator lamp illuminates when an adult or someone larger than a small individual is in the front passenger seat, have the front passenger reposition himself or herself in the seat until the 45
indicator lamp goes out. In the event of a collision, the air bag control unit will not allow front passenger front air bag deployment when the OCS has classified the front passenger seat occupant as weighing as much as or less than a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint or if the front passenger seat is classified as being empty. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as being up to or less than the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint, the 45 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and

Occupant safety

49

remain illuminated. This indicates that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat is classified as being empty, the 45 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and remain illuminated. This indicates that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as being heavier than the weight of a typical 12- month-old child seated in a standard child restraint or as being a small individual (such as a young teenager or a small adult), the 45 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately 6 seconds when the engine is started. Depending on occupant weight sensor readings from the seat, it will then remain illuminated or go out. With the 45 indicator lamp illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. With the 45 indicator lamp out, the front passenger front air bag is activated. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as an adult or someone larger than a small individual, the 45 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately six seconds when the engine is started and then go out. This indicates that the front passenger front air bag is activated. If the 45 indicator lamp is illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is deactivated and will not be deployed. If the 45 indicator lamp is not illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is activated and will be deployed Rin the event of certain frontal impacts Rif the impact exceeds a predetermined

triggering threshold

Rindependent of the side impact air bag or

pelvis air bag

50 Occupant safety

If the front passenger front air bag is deployed, the rate of inflation will be influenced by Rthe rate of vehicle deceleration as assessed

by the air bag control unit

Rthe front passenger's weight category as

identified by the OCS G WARNING According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained on the rear seats than on the front-passenger seat. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seats whenever possible. Regardless of seating position, children 12
years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriate infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. The infant or child restraint must be properly secured with the vehicle's seat belt, the seat belt and Top Tether strap, or lower anchors and Top Tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer's instructions. Occupants, especially children, should always sit as upright as possible, wear the seat belt properly and use an appropriately sized infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. Children can be killed or seriously injured by an inflating air bag. Note the following important information when circumstances require you to place a child in the front- passenger seat: RYour vehicle is equipped with air bag technology designed to deactivate the front-passenger front air bag in your vehicle when the system senses the weight of a typical 12-month-old child or less along with the weight of a standard appropriate child restraint on the front-passenger seat. RA child in a rear-facing child restraint on the

front-passenger seat will be seriously

injured or even killed if the front-passenger front air bag inflates in a collision which could occur under some circumstances, even with the air bag technology installed in your vehicle. The only means to eliminate this risk completely is never to place a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the front- passenger seat. We therefore strongly recommend that you always place a child in a rear-facing child restraint on the rear seat.

RIf you install a rear-facing child restraint on

the front-passenger seat, make sure the 45 indicator lamp is illuminated, indicating that the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated. Should the 45
indicator lamp not illuminate or go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. Periodically check the 45 indicator lamp while driving to make sure that the 45 indicator lamp is illuminated. If the 45
indicator lamp goes out or remains out, do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat until the system has been repaired. A child in a rear-facing child restraint on the front-passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the front-passenger front air bag inflates.

RIf you place a child in a forward-facing child

restraint on the front-passenger seat: - move the seat as far back as possible - use the proper child restraint

recommended for the age, size and weight of the child

- secure child restraint with the vehicle's

seat belt according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions

RFor children larger than the typical 12-

month-old child, the front-passenger front air bag may or may not be activated. G WARNING If the red 6 SRS warning lamp in the instrument cluster and the 45
indicator lamp light up simultaneously, the

OCS is malfunctioning. The front passenger front air bag will be deactivated in this case. Have the system checked by qualified technicians as soon as possible. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Only have the seat repaired or replaced at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. In order to ensure proper operation of the air bag system and OCS: RSit with the seat belt properly fastened in a position that is as upright as possible with your back against the seat backrest. RWhen seated, a passenger should not

position him/herself in such a way as to cause the passenger's weight to be lifted from the seat cushion as this may result in the OCS being unable to correctly approximate the passenger's weight category.

RRead and observe all warnings in this

chapter.

If the SmartKey has been removed from the ignition lock or is in position 0, 45 indicator lamp : does not light up. The Occupant Classification System (OCS) categorizes the occupant on the front- passenger seat using a weight sensor. The front-passenger front air bag is deactivated automatically for certain weight categories. 45 indicator lamp : shows you the current status. If 45 indicator lamp : lights up, the front-passenger air bag is disabled.

Occupant safety

51

The system does not deactivate: Rthe side impact air bag Rthe window curtain air bag Rthe Emergency Tensioning Devices To be classified correctly, the front passenger must sit: Rwith the seat belt fastened correctly Rin a position that is as upright as possible with their back against the seat backrest

Rwith their feet on the floor The OCS weight sensor reading is affected if the occupant's weight is transferred, e.g. by leaning on the armrest. If the front-passenger seat, the seat cover or the seat cushion are damaged, have the necessary repair work carried out at a qualified specialist workshop. For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use seat accessories that have been approved by Mercedes-Benz. Both the driver and the front passenger should always observe the 45
indicator lamp to determine whether or not the front passenger is positioned correctly. Also observe the air bag display messages, which appear in the instrument cluster (Y page 293). If the driver's air bag deploys, this does not mean that the front-passenger front air bag will also deploy. The OCS may have detected that the seat: Ris empty or occupied by the weight of a

typical child up to twelve months old, seated in a child restraint system

Ris occupied by a small individual, such as a

young teenager or a small adult

Ris occupied by a child in a child restraint system whose weight is greater than that of a typical twelve month old child. These are examples of when the OCS deactivates the front-passenger front air bag. Deactivation takes place although the

For more information about the OCS, see "Problems with the Occupant Classification System" (Y page 53).

52 Occupant safety

collision fulfills the criteria for deploying the driver's air bag.

System self-test G WARNING If the 4 5 indicator lamp does not illuminate, the system is not functioning. You must contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center before seating any child on the front passenger seat. G WARNING Never place anything between seat cushion and child seat (e.g. a pillow), since it reduces the effectiveness of the OCS. The underside and rear side child restraint system must be placed entirely on the seat cushion and the backrest of the front-passenger seat backrest. If necessary, adjust the tilt of the passenger seat backrest. An incorrectly mounted child seat could cause injuries to the child in case of an accident, instead of increasing protection for the child. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation of child restraint systems.

The 45 indicator lamp lights up: Rif you turn the SmartKey in the ignition lock

to position 1 or 2

Rif you press the KEYLESS-GO Start/Stop

button once or twice on vehicles with KEYLESS-GO

Rif an adult is seated properly on the front- passenger seat and the OCS classifies the occupant as an adult The 45 indicator lamp goes out after approximately six seconds. If the seat is not occupied and the OCS detects that the front-passenger seat is empty, the 45 indicator lamp will continue to light up. The 45
indicator lamp will not go out.

Occupant safety

53

Problems with the Occupant Classification System G WARNING If the 45 indicator lamp illuminates and remains illuminated when the weight of a typical adult or someone larger than a small individual has been detected on the passenger seat, do not allow any occupant to use the passenger seat until the system has been repaired. G WARNING If the 45 indicator lamp does not illuminate or remains out with the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint or less, or is unoccupied, on the front-passenger seat, do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Problem The 45
indicator lamp lights up and stays on. The person on the front-passenger seat: Rhas the weight of a

typical adult

Rhas been determined by the system not to be a child

Problem The 45
indicator lamp does not light up and/or does not stay on. The front-passenger seat is: Runoccupied Roccupied with a

weight up to that of a typical twelve- month-old child in a standard child restraint system

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The OCS is malfunctioning. X Have the OCS checked as soon as possible at a qualified

specialist workshop.

X Observe the additional messages in the multifunction display

(Y page 293).

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The OCS is malfunctioning. X Make sure there is nothing between the seat cushion and the

child seat.

X Check the installation of the child restraint system. X Make sure that no objects are applying additional weight onto

the seat.

X If the 45 indicator lamp remains off, have the OCS

checked as soon as possible at a qualified specialist workshop. Do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat as long as the OCS is not functioning.

X Observe the additional messages in the multifunction display

(Y page 293).

54 Occupant safety