2000 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

The inertia reel stops the belt from unwinding during sudden vehicle stops or when quickly pulling on the belt. The locking function of the reel may be checked by quickly pulling out the belt.

Unfastening of seat belts Push the release button (3) in the belt buckle (2). Allow the retractor to completely rewind the seat belt by guiding the latch plate (1).

• Never wear the shoulder belt under your arm,

against your neck or off your shoulder. In a crash, your body would move too far forward. That would increase the chance of head and neck injuries. The belt would also apply too much force to the ribs or abdomen, which could severely injure internal organs such as your liver or spleen.

• Never wear belts over rigid or breakable

objects in or on your clothing, such as eyeglasses, pens, keys etc., as these might cause injuries.

• Position the lap belt as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdomen. If the belt is positioned across your abdomen, it could cause serious injuries in a crash.

• Each seat belt should never be used for more

than one person at a time. Do not fasten a seat belt around a person and another person or other objects.

• Belts should not be worn twisted. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to manage impact forces. The twisted belt against your body could cause injuries.

• Pregnant women should also use a lap-

shoulder belt. The lap belt portion should be positioned as low as possible on the hips to avoid any possible pressure on the abdomen.

• Never place your feet on the instrument panel

or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

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Instruments and controls

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A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. Children too big for child restraint systems must ride in back seats using regular seat belts. Position shoulder belt across chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper belt positioning.

Warning! USE CHILD RESTRAINTS PROPERLY. Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions.

BabySmartTM airbag deactivation system Special BabySmartTM compatible child seats, designed for use with the Mercedes-Benz system and available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center are required for use with the BabySmartTM airbag deactivation system. With the special child seat properly installed, the passenger front airbag will not deploy. The 7 indicator lamp located in the instrument cluster will be illuminated, except with key removed or in steering lock position 0. The system does not deactivate the door mounted side impact airbag.

Warning! The BabySmartTM Airbag Deactivation System will ONLY work with a special child seat designed to operate with it. It will not work with child seats which are not BabySmartTM compatible. Never place anything between seat cushion and child seat (e.g. pillow), since it reduces the effectiveness of the deactivation system. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation of special child seats.

The passenger side front airbag will not deploy only if the 7 indicator lamp remains illuminated. Please be sure to check the indicator every time you use the special system child seat. Should the light go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. If the light remains out, do not use the BabySmartTM restraint to transport children on the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Self-test BabySmartTM without special child seat installed After turning key in steering lock to position 1 or 2, the 7 indicator lamp located in the instrument cluster comes on for approximately 6 seconds, extinguishes, then blinks once. If the indicator lamp should not come on or is continuously lit, the system is not functioning. You must see an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center before seating any child on the front passenger seat.

BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens Automotive Corp.

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Supplemental restraint system (SRS) Airbags are intended as a supplement to seat belts. Airbags alone cannot protect as well as airbags plus seat belts in impacts for which the airbags were designed to operate, and do not afford any protection whatsoever in crashes for which the airbags are not designed to deploy. The SRS uses two crash severity levels (thresholds) to activate either the Emergency Tensioning Retractor (ETR) or front airbag or both. Activation depends on the direction and severity of the impact exceeding the preset thresholds and whether the seat belt is fastened.

Seat belt fastened • first threshold exceeded: ETR activates • second threshold exceeded: airbag also activates

Seat belt not fastened Front seats: • first threshold exceeded:

airbag activates, but not ETR

Rear outer seats: • first threshold exceeded:

ETR activates

Driver, front passenger and rear outer seat systems operate independently of each other.

Emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) The seat belts for the outboard passenger seats (except in the optional 3rd row seats) are equipped with emergency tensioning retractors. These tensioning retractors are located in each belt’s inertia reel and become operationally ready with the key in steering lock position 1 or 2. The emergency tensioning retractors are designed to activate only when the seat belts are fastened during frontal impacts exceeding the first threshold of the SRS and in rear impacts exceeding a preset severity level. They remove slack from the belts in such a way that the seat belts fit more snugly against the body restricting its forward movement as much as possible.

In cases of other frontal impacts, angled impacts, roll- overs, certain side impacts, or other accidents without sufficient frontal or rear impact forces, the emergency tensioning retractors will not be activated. The driver and passengers will then be protected by the fastened seat belts and inertia reel in the usual manner. For seat belt and emergency tensioning retractor see page 63.

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Instruments and controls

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Airbags

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1 Driver airbag

2 Front passenger airbag

The most effective occupant restraint system yet developed for use in production vehicles is the seat belt. In some cases, however, the protective effect of a seat belt can be further enhanced by an airbag. The driver airbag is located in the steering wheel hub.

The passenger front airbag is located in the dashboard ahead of the front passenger.

3

3 Side impact airbag, front

4 Side impact airbag, rear

The side impact airbags are located in the front and rear doors. In conjunction with wearing the seat belts, the driver and front passenger airbags can provide increased protection for the driver and front passenger in certain frontal impacts exceeding preset thresholds.

Door mounted side impact airbags can provide increased protection to belted outboard occupants on the impacted side of the vehicle in side impacts exceeding its preset threshold.

Important! The operational readiness of the airbag system is verified by the indicator lamp “SRS” in the instrument cluster when turning the key in steering lock to position 1 or 2. If no fault is detected, the lamp will go

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out after approximately 5 seconds; after the lamp goes out, the system continues to monitor the components and circuitry of the airbag system and will indicate a malfunction by coming on again. If the lamp does not come on at all or if it fails to extinguish after approximately 5 seconds or if it comes on thereafter, a malfunction in the system has been detected. The following system components are monitored or undergo a self-check: crash-sensor(s), airbag ignition circuits, front seat belt buckles, emergency tensioning retractors, seat sensor. Initially, when the key is turned from steering lock position 0 to positions 1 or 2, malfunctions in the crash-sensor are detected and indicated (the “SRS” indicator lamp stays on longer than 5 seconds or does not come on). Have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center immediately.

In the operational mode, after the indicator lamp has gone out following the initial check, interruptions or short circuits in the airbag ignition circuit and in the driver and front passenger seat belt buckle harnesses, and low voltage in the entire system are detected and indicated.

Warning! In the event a malfunction of the “SRS” is indicated as outlined above, the “SRS” may not be operational. For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center immediately to have the system checked; otherwise the “SRS” may not be activated when needed in an accident, which could result in serious or fatal injury, or it might deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could also result in injury.

Front airbags The driver and front passenger front airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal impacts exceeding a preset threshold. The front passenger airbag deploys only if the front passenger seat is occupied and the ü indicator lamp in the instrument cluster is not illuminated.

Note: Heavy objects on the front passenger seat can appear to the “SRS” to indicate the presence of an occupant in that seat which causes the passenger front airbag to deploy in a crash exceeding the appropriate threshold.

Side impact airbags The side impact airbags are designed to activate only in certain side impacts exceeding a preset threshold. Only the side impact airbags on the impacted side of the vehicle deploy. The side impact airbag for the front passenger deploys only if the front passenger seat is occupied. Side impact airbags operate best in conjunction with a properly positioned and fastened seat belt.

Note: Heavy objects on front passenger seat can cause the side impact airbag to deploy in a crash.

Important! Airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal (front airbags) impacts, or side (side impact airbags) impacts which exceed preset thresholds. Only during these types of impacts, if of sufficient severity to meet the deployment thresholds, will they provide their supplemental protection. The driver and passenger should always wear their seat belts, otherwise it is not possible for the airbags to provide their intended supplemental protection. In cases of other frontal impacts, angled impacts, roll-overs, other side impacts, rear collisions, or other accidents in which the airbags are not designed to deploy, the airbags will not be activated. The driver and passenger will then be protected by the fastened seat belts. We caution you not to rely on the presence of the airbags in order to avoid wearing your seat belt.

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Warning! Airbags are designed to reduce the potential of injury in certain frontal (front airbags) impacts, and side (side impact airbags) impacts which may cause significant injuries, however, no system available today can totally eliminate injuries and fatalities. The activation of the “SRS” temporarily releases a small amount of dust from the airbags. This dust, however, is neither injurious to your health, nor does it indicate a fire in the vehicle. The dust might cause some temporary breathing difficulty for people with asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, you may wish to get out of 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 airbag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

Your vehicle was originally equipped with airbags which are designed to activate in certain impacts exceeding a preset threshold to reduce the potential and severity of injury. It is important to your safety and that of your passenger that you replace deployed airbags and repair any malfunctioning airbags to ensure the vehicle will continue to provide crash protection for occupants.

Warning! To reduce the risk of injury when the front airbags inflate, it is very important for the driver and front passenger to always be in a properly seated position and to wear their seat belts. For maximum protection in the event of a collision always be in normal seated position with your back against the backrest. Fasten your seat belt and ensure that it is properly positioned on your body. Since the airbag inflates with considerable speed and force, a proper seating and hands on steering wheel position will help to keep you at a safe distance from the airbag. Occupants who are unbelted, out of position or too close to the airbag can be seriously injured by an airbag as it inflates with great force in the blink of an eye:

• Sit properly belted in an upright position with

your back against the backrest.

• Adjust the driver’s seat as far as possible

rearward, still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls. The distance from the center of the driver’s breastbone to the center of the airbag cover on the steering wheel must be at least ten inches (25 cm) or more. You should be able to accomplish this by a combination of adjustments to the seat and steering wheel. If you have any problems, please see your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. • Do not lean with your head or chest close to the

steering wheel or dashboard.

• Keep hands on the outside of steering wheel rim. Placing hands and arms inside the rim can increase the risk and potential severity of hand/arm injury when the driver front airbag inflates.

• Adjust the front passenger seat as far as

possible rearward from the dashboard when the seat is occupied.

• Occupants, especially children, should never lean their heads in the area of the door where the side airbag inflates. This could result in serious injuries or death should the airbag be triggered. Always sit upright, properly use the seatbelts and appropriate size infant or child restraint system.

• Children 12 years old and under must never

ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury can result.

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

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Warning! Accident research shows that the safest place for children in an automobile is in the rear seat. Should you choose to place a child 12 years old or under in the front passenger seat of your vehicle, you must properly use a BabySmartTM child restraint which will turn off the passenger side front airbag. BabySmartTM will not, however, turn off the vehicle’s side impact airbag. It should be noted that with respect to both front and rear side impact airbags there is a possibility for a side airbag related injury if occupants, especially children, are not properly seated or restrained when next to a side airbag 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) occupants, especially children, should never place their bodies or lean their heads in the area of the door where the side airbag inflates. This could result in serious injuries or death should the side airbag be activated; (2) always sit upright, properly use the seat belts and use an appropriately sized infant or child restraint system for all children 12 years old or under; and (3) always wear seat belts properly. If you believe that, even with the use of these guidelines, it would be safer for your rear seat occupants to have both rear door mounted side airbags deactivated, then deactivation can be accomplished upon your written election to do so at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center at an additional cost. Please contact your local authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call our Client Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) for details.

Safety guidelines for the seat belt, emergency tensioning retractor and airbag

Warning!

• Damaged seat belts or belts that were highly stressed in an accident must be replaced and their anchoring points must also be checked. Use only belts installed or supplied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

• Do not pass belts over sharp edges. • Do not make any modification that could

change the effectiveness of the belts.

• Airbags and ETR’s are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. An airbag or emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) that was activated must be replaced.

• An airbag system component within the

steering wheel gets hot after the airbag has inflated. Do not touch.

• Improper work on the system, including

incorrect installation and removal, can lead to possible injury through an unintended activation of the “SRS”.

• No modifications of any kind may be made to any components or wiring of the “SRS”. This includes changing or removing any component or part of the “SRS”, the installation of additional trim material, badges etc. over the steering wheel hub, front passenger airbag cover, or front door trim panels, and installation of additional electrical/electronic equipment on or near “SRS” components and wiring. Keep area between airbags and occupants free of objects (e.g. packages, purses, umbrellas, etc.).

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• In addition, through improper work there is

the risk of rendering the “SRS” inoperative or causing unintended airbag deployment. Work on the “SRS” must therefore only be performed by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

• For your protection and the protection of others, when scrapping the airbag unit or emergency tensioning retractor, our safety instructions must be followed. These instructions are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

• Given the considerable deployment speed and the textile structure of the airbags, there is the possibility of abrasions or other injuries resulting from airbag deployment.

When you sell the vehicle we strongly urge you to give notice to the subsequent owner that it is equipped with an “SRS” by alerting him to the applicable section in the Operator’s Manual.

Infant and child restraint systems We recommend that all infants and children be properly restrained at all times while the vehicle is in motion. All lap-shoulder belts except the driver’s seat belt have special seat belt retractors for secure fastening of child restraints. To fasten a child restraint follow child restraint instructions for routing. Then pull shoulder belt out completely and let it retract. During the seat belt retraction a ratcheting sound can be heard to indicate that the special seat belt retractor is activated. The belt is now locked. Push down on child restraint to take up any slack. To deactivate, release seat belt buckle and let seat belt retract completely. The seat belt can again be used in the usual manner.

Note: For child seats with mounting fittings for tether anchorages refer to page 67 (installation of infant and child restraint systems).

Warning! Never release the seat belt buckle while vehicle is in motion, since the special seat belt retractor will be deactivated.

Important! The use of infant or child restraints is required by law in all 50 states and all Canadian provinces. Infants and small children should be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system properly secured by a lap-shoulder belt, and that complies with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. A statement by the child restraint manufacturer of compliance with this standard can be found on the instruction label on the restraint and in the instruction manual provided with the restraint. When using any infant or child restraint system, be sure to carefully read and follow all manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use. Please read and observe warning labels affixed to inside of vehicle and to infant or child restraints.

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Warning! Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM System installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury can result. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in back seats and be seated in an infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions.

Infants and small children should never share a seat belt with another occupant. During an accident, they could be crushed between the occupant and seat belt. Children too big for child restraint systems must ride in back seats using regular seat belts. Position shoulder belt across chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper belt positioning for children from 41 lbs. to the point where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without one. When the child restraint is not in use, remove it from the vehicle or secure it with the seat belt to prevent the child restraint from becoming a projectile in the event of an accident.

Installation of infant and child restraint systems

Vehicle without third row seats

To secure a tether strap to the anchorage, securely fasten the hook (1), which is part of the tether strap, to the anchorage ring (2). For safety, please make sure that the hook has attached to the ring beyond the safety catch, as illustrated.

3 Tether anchorages for second row seats 4 Tether anchorages for third row seats (optional) This vehicle is provided with three tether anchorages (3) for a top tether strap behind the second row seats.

Note: Do not use the tether anchorages (4) for a top tether strap on a second row seat.

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Vehicle with third row seats

We recommend to install infant and child restraints on the third row seats. When using the third row seats observe the following: • Installation of infant and child restraint systems

with a top tether strap is allowed only on both third row seats plus the center second row seat.

• When using the center second row seat for a top

tether strap, the left third row seat should only be used for a child restraint system, since exiting the vehicle may not be possible in an emergency due to the routing of the top tether strap. To store the left third row seat, see page 126.

3 Tether anchorages for second row seats 4 Tether anchorages for third row seats This vehicle is provided with tether anchorages for a top tether strap behind the second row seats (3) and the third row seats (4).

Important! An infant and child restraint system must not be installed on the right second row seat while a passenger rides in a third row seat. Use of the easy-entry/exit feature is not possible. See page 123 for easy-entry/exit feature.

Note: When installing an infant or child restraint system with a top tether strap on the left second row seat, the left third row seat should not be occupied. For storage of the left third row seat, see page 126.

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Adjustable steering wheel

70

Adjustable steering wheel

Warning! Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. The steering wheel must be locked while driving. Adjusting the steering wheel while driving, or driving without the steering wheel locked could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Unlocking: Move lever (1) down. The indicator lamp, located in the instrument cluster, comes on. Adjusting: Move steering wheel up or down to desired position. Locking: Move lever (1) up. The indicator lamp, located in the instrument cluster, goes out.

Important! With the key in steering lock position 2, the indicator lamp in the instrument cluster comes on. It should go out when the engine is running. If the indicator lamp does not go out after starting the engine, the adjustable steering column is not locked properly. Do not drive the vehicle until you have properly locked the steering column.

Inside rear view mirror

Use your inside mirror to determine the size and distance of objects seen in the passenger side convex mirror.

Antiglare night position

Manual: Tilt the mirror to the antiglare night position using the lever (1) at its lower edge.

Rear view mirrors

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Rear view mirrors

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To deactivate: Press button (1) again. The indicator lamp in the rear view mirror goes out. The mirror brightness does not respond to changes in light sensitivity.

Notes: With gear selector lever in position “R”, or with the interior lamps (except cargo compartment lamp) switched on, the mirror brightness does not respond to changes in light sensitivity. The automatic antiglare function does not react, if incoming light is not aimed directly at sensors in the mirror.

Warning! In the case of an accident liquid electrolyte may escape the mirror housing when the mirror glass breaks. Electrolyte has an irritating effect. Do not allow the liquid come into contact with eyes, skin, clothing, or respiratory system. In cases it does, immediately flush affected area with water, and seek medical help if necessary.

Automatic (optional on ML 320): With the key in steering lock position 2 and the automatic antiglare function activated, the mirror reflection brightness responds to changes in light sensitivity.

To activate: Press button (1). The green indicator lamp in the rear view mirror lights up.

Exterior rear view mirrors

First select the mirror to be adjusted – turn switch:

1 Left mirror 2 Right mirror To adjust, toggle the switch forward, backward or to either side.

Warning! Exercise care when using the passenger-side mirror. The passenger-side exterior mirror is convex (outwardly curved surface for a wider field of view). Objects in mirror are closer than they appear. Check your inside rear view mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.

Note: After turning off the engine the exterior rear view mirrors can be operated with a front door opened or with key in steering lock position 1 for approximately 30 minutes.

The switch is located on the center console. Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2.

P82.00-2044-26

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Vehicles with automatic antiglare function: With the key in steering lock position 2, the driver’s side mirror reflection brightness responds to changes in light sensitivity. With gear selector lever in position “R”, or with the interior lamps (except cargo compartment lamp) switched on, the driver’s side mirror brightness does not respond to changes in light sensitivity.

Warning! In the case of an accident liquid electrolyte may escape the mirror housing when the mirror glass breaks. Electrolyte has an irritating effect. Do not allow the liquid come into contact with eyes, skin, clothing, or respiratory system. In cases it does, immediately flush affected area with water, and seek medical help if necessary.

Important! Electrolyte drops coming into contact with the vehicle paint finish can only be completely removed while in their liquid state, by applying plenty of water.

Notes: The exterior mirrors have electrically heated glass. The heater switches on automatically, depending on outside temperature. If an exterior mirror housing is forcibly pivoted from its normal position, it must be repositioned by applying firm pressure until it snaps into place.

Exterior rear view mirror, electrically folding (optional on ML 320 and ML 430)

P82.00-2016-26

The switch is located in the dashboard behind the steering wheel.

1 Press switch to fold mirror out 2 Press switch to fold mirror in

If an exterior mirror housing is forcibly forced forward or rearward (hit from the front or from the rear), press lower half of the switch (2) until you hear a hitting noise. Press upper half of the switch (1) to fold mirror out. You can adjust the exterior rear view mirrors again, see page 73.

Notes: The exterior rear view mirrors can vibrate if they are not completely folded out. Before running the vehicle through an automatic car wash, fold the mirrors in, otherwise they might get damaged. After turning off the engine the exterior rear view mirrors can be operated with a front door opened or with key in steering lock position 1 for approximately 30 minutes.

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Instrument cluster

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1 Coolant temperature gauge, see page 81
2 Outside temperature indicator (optional), see

page 82

3 Fuel gauge with reserve and fuel cap placement

warning lamp, see page 220

4 Left turn signal indicator lamp, see exterior lamp

switch, page 90

5 Knob for odometer/trip odometer readout/reset, FSS indicator, and intensity of instrument lamps, see page 80

6 4-ETS+ and ESP warning lamp, see page 221

For 4-ETS+ (four wheel electronic traction system), see page 203; for ESP (electronic stability program), see page 205.

7 Speedometer 8 Selectable:

Trip odometer, see page 80 Main odometer, see page 80 FSS display, see page 87 Engine oil level indicator, see page 89

9 Right turn signal indicator lamp, see exterior lamp

switch, page 90

10 Knob for setting clock, see page 80
11 Tachometer, see page 82
12 Gear range indicator display, see selector lever

positions, page 168
13 Clock, see page 80

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BRAKE

Indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

High beam

BAS ESP

ABS

BAS malfunction, see page 221
ESP malfunction, see page 221
4-ETS+ malfunction, see page 221

ABS malfunction, see page 222

Brake pads worn down, see page 225

Engine oil level low, see page 224

Coolant level low, see page 224

LOW

RANGE

Transmission in LOW RANGE mode, see page 221

SRS

ESP and 4-ETS+. Adjust driving to road condition, see page 221
Brake fluid low, see page 219
EBP malfunction, see page 204
Parking brake engaged, see page 173
Front passenger airbag automatically switched off, see page 53
Front fog lamp, see page 92

Steering wheel adjustment not locked, see page 70
Fasten seat belts, see page 223
Battery not being charged properly, see page 223
SRS malfunction, see page 219

CHECK ENGINE

If the “CHECK ENGINE” malfunction indicator lamp comes on when the engine is running, it indicates a malfunction of the fuel management system, emission control system, systems which impact emissions, or the fuel cap is not closed tight. In all cases, we recommend that you have the malfunction checked as soon as possible, see page 218.

Additional function indicator lamps (in the odometer display)

FSS indicator (Service A), see page 87

FSS indicator (Service B), see page 87

The symbols appear in the main odometer display field prior to the next suggested service. Depending on operating conditions throughout the year, the next service is calculated and displayed in days or distance remaining. See page 87 for notes on the flexible service system (FSS).

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Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instrument cluster

80

Activating instrument cluster display

The display for temperature, odometer, oil level indicator and clock is activated by: • Opening the driver’s door. • Pressing button (1) in the instrument cluster (with

key removed or in steering lock position 0).

• Turning the key in steering lock to position 1 or 2.

Display illumination Rotate knob (1) to vary intensity of instrument lamps: • Clockwise - instrument lamp intensity increases. • Counterclockwise - instrument lamp intensity

decreases.

Odometer/trip odometer

Activate the instrument cluster. • Press knob (1) once to switch to or from odometer to

trip odometer readout.

• Press and hold knob (1) for more than 1 second to reset trip odometer (with trip odometer displayed).

• Press knob (1) twice to display next scheduled

service.

Clock

Adjusting clock (instrument cluster activated): Minute: Pull out knob (2) and turn it to the right. Hour: Pull out knob (2) and turn it to the left.

Coolant temperature gauge During severe operating conditions and stop-and-go city traffic, the coolant temperature may rise close to the red marking. The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature in the red zone. Doing so may cause serious engine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Warning!

• Driving when your engine is badly overheated can cause some fluids which may have leaked into the engine compartment to catch fire. You could be seriously burned.

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

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

Instrument cluster

81

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instrument cluster

82

Tachometer The tachometer displays the present engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM). To help protect the engine, the fuel supply is interrupted if the engine is operated above its specified limit.

Outside temperature indicator The temperature sensor is located in the front bumper area. Due to its location, the sensor can be affected by road or engine heat during idling or slow driving. This means that the accuracy of the displayed temperature can only be verified by comparison to a thermometer placed next to the sensor, not by comparison to external displays (e.g. bank signs etc.). Adaptation to ambient temperature takes place in steps and depends on the prevailing driving conditions (stop- and-go or moderate, constant driving) and amount of temperature change.

Warning! The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an Ice-Warning Device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. Indicated temperatures just above the freezing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice.

Trip computer (standard; optional on model ML 320)

MODE

The trip computer is located in the overhead console. Function keys are: • RESET • MODE

Note: With engine not running, the display switches off automatically 30 seconds after the last entry.

To select a mode: With key in steering lock position 1 or 2, press MODE key repeatedly to illuminate the display and scroll through menu for one of the following options:

1. Date, see page 84. 2. Compass, see page 84. 3. Stop watch, see page 86. 4. Present fuel consumption – displays miles per

gallon or liters per 100 km.

5. Average fuel consumption – displays miles per

gallon or liters per 100 km, see page 86.

6. Distance remaining with fuel presently in tank.

Note: The display flashes when fuel supply drops to the reserve level. The distance remaining is no longer shown.

7. Language – Press RESET key until the desired language is displayed. Depending on language selected, information is displayed in that country’s customary system. See page 86.

8. Trip computer switched off.

83

Trip computer

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Trip computer

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

84

To change the compass zones: Determine the geographical point of the vehicle with the aid of the zone maps below:

1. Turn key in steering lock to position 2. 2. Press MODE key repeatedly until the compass

display appears in the trip computer display.

3. Press RESET key to select the compass zone mode.

The zone selected last is shown in the display. 4. Press RESET key repeatedly until the correct

compass zone, as determined from the zone map, is shown in the display.

5. Press MODE key twice to activate the new compass

zone and change back to compass display.

To change an entry, select mode to be changed: • Date –

Press RESET key, the month shown blinks. Now press MODE key to advance to selected month. Press RESET key again, the day shown blinks. Now press MODE key to advance to selected day. Press RESET key again, the year shown blinks. Now press MODE key to advance to selected year. Press RESET key again, the display stops blinking and the date is set.

• Compass –

The compass displays the direction the vehicle is traveling, such as N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W or NW. Note: The presence of buildings, bridges, power lines and large antenna masts can influence the displayed values. Metallic or magnetic objects in or on the vehicle can influence the accuracy of the compass.

Zone map North America

Zone map South America

Trip computer

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

85

Instruments and controls

Trip computer

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

To calibrate the compass: If the vehicle was exposed to a significant magnetic zone, such as high voltage power lines, the compass may have to be calibrated. Calibration of the compass should be done in an area free of steel superstructures and power lines. All electrical consumers (e.g. exterior lamps, climate control, etc.) should be switched off, doors and liftgate closed. Do not open or close the roof. An open door or liftgate triggers the display “–––”.

1. Start and run the engine. 2. Press MODE key repeatedly until the compass

display appears in the trip computer display.

3. Press RESET key to select the compass zone display. 4. Press RESET repeatedly until the correct zone, as

determined from the zone map (see page 85), is shown in the display.

5. Press MODE key, “CAL–” appears in the display. 6. Press and hold RESET for a minimum of 2 seconds.

86

7. Without interruption drive two or more full circles

at a speed between 3 mph (5 km/h) and 7 mph (10 km/h) during which the message “CAL” is replaced with a compass bearing (e.g. N, SW etc.), immediately followed by three full circles at the same speed, with only the rear window defroster switched on. The defroster can be switched off again. The calibration of the compass is now complete.

• Stop watch –

Press RESET key to start the count. Press again to stop the count. Press and hold RESET key to reset stop watch.

• Average fuel consumption –

Press RESET key to delete present reading.

• Language –

Press RESET key to set the language used in the display.

Flexible service system (FSS) (service indicator)

The FSS permits a flexible service schedule that is directly related to the operating conditions of the vehicle. The symbol 9 or ´ appears in the main odometer field prior to the next suggested service. Depending on operating conditions throughout the year, the next service is calculated and displayed in days or distance remaining.

The display begins to appear either 30 days or 2000 miles/km prior to the next suggested service. The symbols 9 or ´ indicate the type of service to be performed: 9 Service A ´ Service B The message is displayed for approximately 10 seconds when turning the key in steering lock to position 2, or while driving when reaching the service warning threshold. The message can be canceled manually by pressing button (1). The next service due date is displayed either in days or in miles, depending on your driving style. Once the suggested term has passed, the symbol 9 or ´ plus message, preceded by a – (minus symbol) blinks every time when turning the key in steering lock to position 2.

Calling up service indicator manually: Activate the instrument cluster, see page 80. Within 4 seconds press button (1) twice to call up the FSS display for approximately 10 seconds.

Flexible service system

87

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Flexible service system

88

Important! The FSS indicator is not an engine oil level indicator. See page 89 for engine oil level indicator.

Notes: When disconnecting vehicle battery for one or more days at a time, such days will not be counted. Any such days not counted by the FSS can be added by your Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. The interval between services is determined by the type of driving for which the vehicle is used. For example, driving at extreme speeds, and cold starts combined with short distance driving in which the engine does not reach normal operating temperature, reduce the interval between services. Following a completed A or B service the Mercedes- Benz Light Truck Center sets the counter mileage to 10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km) and 365 days.

The counter can also be set by any individual. To do so:

1. Turn the key in steering lock to position 2. 2. Immediately press button (1) twice within one

second.

3. The present status for days or distance is displayed.

Within 10 seconds turn key in steering lock to position 0.

4. Press and hold button (1), while turning key in

steering lock to position 2 again. The present status for days or distance is displayed once more. Continue to hold button (1). After approximately 10 seconds a signal sounds, and the display shows 10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km) for approximately 10 seconds.

5. Release button (1). If the FSS counter was inadvertently reset, have it corrected at a Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Notes: The FSS allows for distances between 10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km) and 20 000 miles (Canada: 30 000 km), or from 365 to 730 days between services. However you choose to set your reference numbers, the scheduled services as posted in the Service Booklet must be followed to properly care for your vehicle.

Engine oil level indicator

To check the engine oil level, park vehicle on level ground, with engine at normal operational temperature. Check oil level approximately 5 minutes after stopping the engine, allowing for the oil to return to the oil pan. Turn the key in steering lock to position 2 and wait until the display “––––––” appears in the odometer display field. Within 1 second press button (1) twice.

The following messages are available: “OIL i.O” No oil needs to be added. “–1.0 L” “–1.5 L” “–2.0 L” Add oil to upper (max) mark of the dipstick. See page 233 for instructions on adding engine oil. “OIL HI” Do not overfill the engine. Excessive oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. The display “––––––” flashes in the odometer display field if a proper oil level check cannot be performed. The engine oil level check can be repeated after a short time. Perform the engine oil level check with the dipstick, if it cannot be completed via the odometer display field. See page 233. In this case we recommend that you have the system checked at a Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Engine oil level indicator

89

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Exterior lamp switch

90

Exterior lamp switch

Rotate switch $ to positions:

D Off C Parking lamps (also side marker lamps, taillamps,

license plate lamps, instrument panel lamps) Canada only: When the engine is running, the low beam is additionally switched on.

õ Parking lamps plus low beam or high beam

headlamps (switch pushed forward)

ƒ Standing lamps, left or right side (depending on turn signal switch position). Turn key in steering lock to position 0 or remove. Standing lamps, left – move stalk to position (5). Standing lamps, right – move stalk to position (4).

Move stalk to positions:

1 Low beam (exterior lamp switch position õ) 2 High beam (exterior lamp switch position õ) 3 High beam flasher (high beam available

independent of exterior lamp switch position)

4 Turn signals, right 5 Turn signals, left To signal minor directional changes, such as changing lanes on a highway, move exterior lamp switch briefly to the point of resistance only and release. The turn signals blink three times. To operate the turn signals continuously, move the exterior lamp switch past the point of resistance (up or down). The switch is automatically canceled when the steering wheel is turned to a large enough degree.

Turn signal failure If one of the turn signals fails, the turn signal indicator system flashes and sounds at a faster than normal rate.

Standing lamps When the vehicle is parked on the street the standing lamps (right or left side parking lamps) can be turned on, making the vehicle more visible to passing vehicles. The standing lamps cannot be operated with the key in steering lock position 1 or 2.

Note: With the key removed and a front door open, a warning sounds if the vehicle’s exterior lamps (except standing lamps) are not switched off.

Daytime running lamps (Canada only) When the engine is running and the selector lever is in a driving position, the low beam headlamps (includes parking lamps, side marker lamps, taillamps and license plate lamps) are automatically switched on. When shifting from a driving position to position “N” or “P”, the low beam switches off (2 seconds delay). For nighttime driving the exterior lamp switch should be turned to position õ to permit activation of the high beam headlamps.

Exterior lamp switch

91

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Fog lamp switch

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

92

Fog lamp switch (except Canada)

Press down rocker switch symbols:

1 Auxiliary front fog lamps on (if so equipped). Green indicator lamp ‡ in instrument cluster comes on.

Press upper half of the switch again to switch fog lamps off. The green indicator lamp ‡ in instrument cluster goes out.

2 Rear fog lamp (driver’s side) on. Yellow indicator

lamp in switch comes on in addition to green indicator lamp ‡ in instrument cluster. Press lower half of the switch again to switch rear fog lamp off. The yellow indicator lamp in switch goes out.

Note: Front fog lamps operate with the low beam headlamps on. Consult your state Motor Vehicle Regulations regarding allowable lamp operation.

The switch is located in the center console.

Fog lamp switch (Canada only)

The switch is located in the center console.

Press down rocker switch symbols:

1 Front fog lamps on (if so equipped). Green indicator

lamp ‡ in instrument cluster comes on. Press upper half of the switch again to switch fog lamps off. The green indicator lamp ‡ in instrument cluster goes out.

2 Rear fog lamp (driver’s side) in addition to front fog lamps on. Yellow indicator lamp in switch comes on in addition to green indicator lamp ‡ in instrument cluster. Press lower half of the switch again to switch rear fog lamp off. The yellow indicator lamp in switch goes out. When pressing upper half of the switch once with front fog lamps and rear fog lamp on, first the rear fog lamp is switched off. The yellow indicator lamp in the switch goes out. Press upper half of the switch again to switch off front fog lamps. The green indicator lamp ‡ in instrument cluster also goes out.

Note: Front fog lamps operate with the low beam headlamps on. Consult your state Motor Vehicle Regulations regarding allowable lamp operation.

Fog lamp switch

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

93

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Hazard warning flasher

94

Hazard warning flasher switch The hazard warning flasher switch is located on top of the steering column. The hazard warning flasher can be activated either manually via the switch located in the dashboard, or it is activated automatically at the time an airbag is deployed. To activate hazard warning flasher, press switch once. To deactivate, press switch again. If hazard warning flasher was activated automatically, press switch twice to deactivate.

Note: To signal turns while being towed with hazard warning flasher in use, turn key in steering lock to position 2 and activate combination switch for left or right turn signal in usual manner. Now deactivate the hazard warning flasher, only the selected turn signal will operate. Upon canceling the turn signal, the hazard warning flasher must be activated again.

Headlamp cleaning system (with Xenon headlamps)

The switch is located in the instrument panel behind the steering wheel. The headlamp washer can be activated with the key in steering lock position 2.