2009 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

The automotive maintenance facility carrying out the maintenance service will find the information for resetting the maintenance service indicator in the maintenance-relevant literature for your vehicle. Such literature is available from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or directly from Mercedes-Benz. i If the maintenance service indicator was

inadvertently reset, have an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center correct it.

289

1 Reset button X Clearing the maintenance service

indicator message manually: Press reset button 1 on the instrument cluster. The standard display appears in the multifunction display.

Maintenance service term exceeded If you have exceeded the suggested maintenance service term, you will see the following message in the multifunction display: Service A Exceeded By XXXXX Miles (Km) Service A Exceeded By XXX Days Service A Exceeded By X Day

Operation

Vehicle care

Only reset if the proper maintenance service has been performed. Resetting the system without performing the proper maintenance service as called for by the maintenance service indicator will result in engine damage and/or other vehicle damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

290

Vehicle care Cleaning and care of the vehicle

Notes Regular and proper care will help to maintain the value of your vehicle. G Warning! Many cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are poisonous, others are flammable. Always follow the instructions on the particular container. Always open your vehicle’s doors or windows when cleaning the inside. Never use fluids or solvents that are not designed for cleaning your vehicle. Always lock away cleaning products and keep them out of reach of children.

! When cleaning the vehicle, do not use

scouring agents. Never apply strong force and only use a soft, wet cloth or sponge. Otherwise you may scratch or damage the surface to be cleaned.

While in operation, even while parked, your vehicle is subjected to varying external influences which, if gone unchecked, can

attack the paintwork as well as the vehicle underbody and cause lasting damage. Such damage is caused not only by extreme and varying climatic conditions, but also by: RAir pollution RRoad salt RTar RGravel and stone chipping To avoid paint damage, you should immediately remove: RGrease and oil RFuel RCoolant RBrake fluid RBird droppings RInsects RTree resins etc. Frequent washing reduces and/or eliminates the aggressiveness and potency of the above adverse influences.

More frequent washings are necessary to deal with unfavorable conditions: Rnear the ocean Rin industrial areas (smoke, exhaust

emissions)

Rduring winter operation You should check your vehicle from time to time for stone chipping or other damage. Any damage should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent corrosion. In doing so, do not neglect the underbody of the vehicle. A prerequisite for a thorough check is a washing of the underbody followed by a thorough inspection. Damaged areas need to be re-undercoated. Your vehicle has been treated at the factory with a wax-base rustproofing in the body cavities which will last for the lifetime of the vehicle. Post-production treatment is neither necessary nor recommended by Mercedes- Benz because of the possibility of incompatibility between materials used in the production process and others applied later. We have selected vehicle-care products and compiled recommendations which are specially matched to our vehicles and which always reflect the latest technology. You can obtain Mercedes-Benz approved vehicle-care

products at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosion or damage due to negligent or incorrect care cannot always be removed or repaired with the vehicle-care products recommended here. In such cases it is best to seek aid at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. The following topics deal with the cleaning and care of your vehicle and give important “how-to” information as well as references to Mercedes-Benz approved vehicle-care products.

Power washer ! Follow the instructions provided by the

power washer manufacturer on maintaining a distance between the vehicle and the nozzle of the power washer. Never use a round nozzle to power-wash tires. The intense jet of water can result in damage to the tire. Always replace a damaged tire. Always keep the jet of water moving across the surface. Do not aim directly at electrical parts, electrical connectors, seals, or other rubber parts.

Operation

Vehicle care

i Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO:

If a door handle is hit by a strong jet of water, and a SmartKey is within approximately 3 ft (1 m) of the vehicle, it could be inadvertently locked or unlocked.

Tar stains Quickly remove tar stains before they dry and become more difficult to remove. A tar remover is recommended.

Paintwork, painted body components ! Affixing stickers, magnets, adhesive tape

or similar materials to painted body components may damage the paintwork. Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Care should be applied when water drops on the paint surface do not “bead up”. This should normally be done every 3 to 5 months, depending on the climate and washing detergent used. Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Cleaner should be applied if the paint surface shows signs of embedded dirt (i.e. loss of gloss). Do not apply any of these products or wax if your vehicle is parked in the sun or if the hood is still hot.

291

Operation

Vehicle care X Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up Stick for quick and provisional repairs of minor paint damage (i.e. chips from stones, vehicle doors, etc.).

Engine cleaning Prior to cleaning the engine compartment, make sure to protect electrical components and connectors from contact with water and cleaning agents. Corrosion protection, such as MB Anticorrosion Wax should be applied to the engine compartment after every engine cleaning. Before applying, all control linkage bushings and joints should be lubricated. The poly-V-belt and all pulleys should be protected from any wax.

Vehicle washing In the winter, thoroughly remove all traces of road salt as soon as possible. When washing the vehicle underbody, do not forget to clean the inner sides of the wheels. i Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO:

If a door handle is hit by a strong jet of water, and a SmartKey is within

292

approximately 3 ft (1 m) of the vehicle, it could be inadvertently locked or unlocked.

Hand-wash X Do not use hot water or wash your vehicle

in direct sunlight.

X Only use a soft, wet cloth or sponge to

clean the vehicle.

X Only use a mild vehicle wash detergent,

such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo.

X Thoroughly spray the vehicle with a

diffused jet of water.

X Do not spray directly towards the

ventilation intake.

X Use plenty of water and rinse the sponge

and chamois frequently.

X Rinse with clean water and thoroughly dry

with a chamois. Do not allow cleaning agents to dry on the finish.

Automatic car wash You can have your vehicle washed in an automatic car wash from the start. Brushless car washes are preferable.

X To protect the filter system, activate the air recirculation mode using button : on the climate control panel.

! Do not clean your vehicle in an automatic

touchless car wash which uses caustic spray. Caustic spray will damage the paint or ornamental moldings.

If the vehicle is very dirty, prewash it before running it through the automatic car wash. ! Make sure the combination switch is set to wiper setting M. Otherwise, the rain sensor could activate and cause the wipers to move unintentionally. This may lead to vehicle damage. Due to the width of the vehicle, fold in exterior rear view mirrors prior to running the vehicle through an automatic car wash to prevent damage to the mirrors.

X When taking the vehicle through an automatic conveyor-type car wash: Make sure the automatic transmission remains in neutral position N. Observe instructions, see “Remaining in neutral position N” (Y page 130).

When leaving the automatic car wash, make sure the mirrors are folded out.

Headlamps, brake lamps, tail lamps, side markers, turn signal lenses X Use a mild vehicle wash detergent, such as

Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo, with plenty of water.

! Only use window cleaning solutions that

are suitable for plastic lamp lenses. Window cleaning solutions which are not suitable may damage the plastic lamp lenses of the headlamps. Therefore, do not use abrasives, solvents or cleaners that contain solvents.

Cleaning the Parktronic system sensors Parktronic system sensors are located in the front and rear bumper.

After running the vehicle through an automatic car wash, wipe any wax off of the windshield and the wiper blade inserts. This will prevent smears and reduce wiping noise which can be caused by residual wax on the windshield.

Ornamental moldings X For regular cleaning and care of ornamental

moldings, use a damp cloth.

! Do not use chrome cleaner on ornamental moldings. Although ornamental moldings may have chrome appearance, they could be made of anodized aluminum that will be damaged when cleaned with chrome cleaner. Instead, use a damp cloth to clean those ornamental moldings. For very dirty ornamental moldings of which you are sure are chrome-plated, use a chrome cleaner. If in doubt whether an ornamental molding is chrome-plated, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Operation

Vehicle care

1 Parktronic system sensors in front

bumper

X Only clean sensors 1 by hand. X Use a mild vehicle wash detergent, such as

Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo, with plenty of water and a soft, non- scratching cloth to clean sensors 1 on the bumpers.

! Applying strong pressure may damage

the sensor covers.

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Operation

Vehicle care Cleaning the rear view camera lens

1 Camera lens X Only use clean water and a soft, non-

scratching cloth to clean camera lens 1. Be careful not to apply wax to camera lens 1 when waxing the vehicle. If necessary, remove the wax using the Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo with plenty of water. ! Do not clean the camera and the area

around the camera Rwith a high-pressure cleaner Rwith a dry cloth and strong pressure Rwith aggressive cleaning agents You could otherwise damage the camera.

294

Cleaning the windows and the wiper blades ! Never open the hood when the wiper arms

are folded forward. G Warning! For safety reasons, switch off wipers and remove SmartKey from starter switch (vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: Make sure the vehicle’s on-board electronics have status 0) before cleaning the windshield and/or the wiper blades. Otherwise, the wiper motor could suddenly turn on and cause injury.

! Do not pull on the wiper blade inserts.

They could tear.

X Fold the wiper arms forward until they snap

into place.

X Clean the windshield and the wiper blade

inserts with a clean cloth and mild detergent solution.

X Use a soft, clean cloth and a mild window cleaning solution on all outside and inside glass surfaces. An automotive glass cleaner is recommended.

! Fold the windshield wiper arms back onto the windshield before turning the SmartKey in the starter switch or pressing the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button (vehicles with KEYLESS-GO). Hold on to the wiper when folding the wiper arm back. If released, the force of the impact from the tensioning spring could crack the windshield.

! To clean the window interior, do not use a dry cloth, abrasives, solvents or cleaners containing solvents. Do not touch the inside of the front, rear or side windows and the power tilt/sliding sunroof with hard objects such as an ice scraper or ring. Doing so may damage the windows or the power tilt/sliding sunroof.

Light alloy wheels If possible, clean wheels once a week. X Use Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care,

a soft bristle brush and a strong spray of water for cleaning the light alloy wheels.

! Only use acid-free cleaning materials.

Acid may cause corrosion or damage the clear coat.

! The vehicle should not be parked for an extended period of time immediately after it has been cleaned, especially not after the wheel rims have been cleaned with wheel rim cleaner. Wheel rim cleaners can lead to increased corrosion of the brake disks and brake pads. Non-approved wheel cleaners may also damage the wheel paint if the vehicle is not driven after cleaning. Therefore, the vehicle’s brake system should always be warmed-up before it is parked after cleaning. Drive your vehicle for several minutes to allow the brakes to dry. When applying Mercedes-Benz approved Tire Care and Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care products, take care not to spray them on the brake disks.

Plastic and rubber parts X Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution.

X Wipe with a cloth moistened in a lukewarm

solution. The surface may temporarily change color. If this is the case, wait for it to dry.

G Warning! Do not use cleaners or cockpit care sprays containing solvents to clean the cockpit or the steering wheel. Cleaners containing solvents will make the surface porous and vehicle occupants could suffer serious injuries from plastic parts coming loose in the event of air bag deployment.

! Do not use oil, wax or scouring agents.

Otherwise you may scratch or damage the surface.

Hard plastic trim items X Use Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care on a soft, lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure.

COMAND display ! You must switch off the COMAND display

and allow it to cool prior to cleaning.

! Do not use any liquids or cleaning agents.

These can damage or even destroy the audio display screen.

X Use a standard microfiber cloth and apply

with light pressure.

Operation

Vehicle care

Steering wheel X Wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly

or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care.

Carpets X Use Mercedes-Benz approved Carpet and

Fabric Care for cleaning the carpets.

Headliner X Use a soft bristle brush or a dry-shampoo

cleaner in case of excessive dirt.

Seat belts X Only use clear, lukewarm water and soap.

! The seat belts must not be treated with chemical cleaning agents. Do not dry the seat belts at temperatures above 176‡ (80†) or in direct sunlight. G Warning! Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be able to provide adequate protection.

295

! Do not use solvents like tar remover or wheel cleaner nor polishes or waxes as these may be abrasive.

Chrome-plated exhaust tip Regular cleaning and care of chrome-plated exhaust tips will help to maintain their shine and the classy appearance. X Use Mercedes-Benz approved Chrome

Polishing Paste each time the vehicle has been washed, especially during the winter.

! Do not use alkaline cleaners such as

wheel cleaners as they could cause corrosion.

Operation

Vehicle care Upholstery Using aftermarket seat covers or wearing clothing that have the tendency to give off coloring (e.g. when wet, etc.) may cause the upholstery to become permanently discolored. By lining the seats with a proper intermediate cover, contact-discoloration will be prevented. G Warning! Only use seat or head restraint covers which have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle model. Using other seat or head restraint covers may interfere with or prevent Rdeployment of the front side impact air

bags

Rdeployment of the rear side impact air

bags

Ractivation of the active head restraints Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability.

Leather upholstery Please note that leather upholstery is a natural product and is therefore subject to a natural aging process. Leather upholstery may also react to certain ambient influences

296

such as high humidity or high temperature by showing wrinkles for example. X Wipe leather upholstery with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes- Benz approved Leather Care.

! To avoid damage to leather upholstery:

RWipe with light pressure only. RDo not clean with abrasive cleaning

agents such as scouring milk or powder.

RDo not soak the leather upholstery.

As leather is a natural product, it could otherwise harden or become porous. RExercise particular care when cleaning

perforated leather as its underside should not become wet.

MB Tex upholstery X Use Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care

onto a soft, lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure for cleaning the upholstery.

Wood trims X Only use water and a damp cloth to clean

wood trims in your vehicle.

Practical hints

Vehicle equipment ............................ 298
Where will I find ...? .......................... 298
Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display ....................... 302
What to do if … .................................. 337
Unlocking/locking manually ........... 350
Resetting activated head restraints 352
Replacing SmartKey batteries ......... 353
Replacing bulbs ................................. 354

Replacing wiper blades .................... 363
Flat tire .............................................. 366
Bleeding the fuel system (diesel engine only) ....................................... 380
AdBlue® (diesel engine only) ........... 380
Battery ............................................... 383
Jump starting .................................... 385
Towing the vehicle ............................ 387
Fuses .................................................. 391

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Practical hints

Where will I find ...? Vehicle equipment

i This Operator’s Manual describes all

features, standard or optional, potentially available for your vehicle at the time of purchase. Please be aware that your vehicle might not be equipped with all features described in this manual.

Where will I find ...? First aid kit i Check expiration dates and contents for

completeness at least once a year and replace missing/expired items.

The first aid kit is located on the driver’s side in the cargo compartment behind the cover.

1 Lock 2 Cover in driver’s side trim panel X Turn lock 1 by 90° in direction of the

arrow.

X Fold down cover 2.

The first aid kit can be removed.

Vehicle tool kit The vehicle tool kit is located in the space underneath the cargo compartment floor. The vehicle tool kit includes: RAlignment bolt RCollapsible wheel chock RElectric air pump20
RFuse chart RJack RReversible ratchet for jack RTIREFIT kit21
RTowing eye bolt RWheel wrench RSpare wheel bolts22
X Removing: Open the tailgate (Y page 90).

20 ML 320 BlueTEC (Canada vehicles) factory equipped with 20" wheels and vehicles with spare wheel with collapsible tire only. 21 ML 320 BlueTEC (Canada vehicles) factory equipped with 20" wheels only. 22 Vehicles with Minispare wheel only. 298

Practical hints

Where will I find ...? X Engage securing hook 3 on upper cargo

compartment lip 5.

! With the cargo compartment cover blind installed behind the rear seats, disengage cargo compartment cover blind and flip it forward. Otherwise the strap of the securing hook could damage the cargo compartment cover blind.

! To prevent damage, always disengage the

securing hook from upper cargo compartment lip and lower the cargo compartment floor before closing the tailgate.

1 Cargo compartment floor, lowered 2 Floor handle X Push in floor handle 2 as indicated by

arrow.

X Lift cargo compartment floor 1 using floor

handle 2.

3 Securing hook X Release securing hook 3 (located below

the floor handle) from holder.

3 Securing hook 4 Cargo compartment floor, raised 5 Upper cargo compartment lip

299

Practical hints

Where will I find ...? Vehicles without spare wheel

Vehicles with spare wheel

1 Reversible ratchet for jack 2 Fuse chart 3 Collapsible wheel chock 4 Jack 5 TIREFIT kit23
6 Towing eye bolt 7 Wheel wrench 8 Alignment bolt 9 Electric air pump23

Example illustration 1 Electric air pump24
2 Storage well casing 3 Alignment bolt 4 Towing eye bolt 5 Wheel wrench X To access remaining tools: Remove storage well casing 2 (if so equipped). X Remove the spare wheel (Y page 302).

Example illustration 6 Jack 7 Collapsible wheel chock 8 Fuse chart 9 Spare wheel bolts25
a Reversible ratchet for jack

Collapsible wheel chock The collapsible wheel chock serves to secure the vehicle, e.g. while changing a wheel. X Take the collapsible wheel chock from the

vehicle tool kit (Y page 298).

23 ML 320 BlueTEC (Canada vehicles) factory equipped with 20" wheels only. 24 Vehicles with spare wheel with collapsible tire only. 25 Vehicles with Minispare wheel only. 300

Jack G Warning! Only use the jack supplied with your vehicle to lift the vehicle briefly for wheel changes. If you use the jack for any other purpose, you or others could be injured, as the jack is designed only for the purpose of changing a wheel. When using the jack, observe the safety notes in the “Mounting the spare wheel” section and the notes on the jack.

X Take the jack from the vehicle tool kit

(Y page 298).

Practical hints

Where will I find ...?

Operational position 1 Jack 2 Reversible ratchet X Attach reversible ratchet 2 to jack 1 in such a way that the word UP can be seen. Before placing the jack back into the vehicle tool kit: X Fully collapse the jack (storage position). X Remove the reversible ratchet.

Storage position X Take the reversible ratchet from the vehicle

tool kit.

301

1 Tilt the plates upward 2 Fold the lower plate outward 3 Insert the plate X Setting up: Tilt both plates upward 1. X Fold the lower plate outward 2. X Guide the tabs of the lower plate all the way

into the openings of base plate 3.

For information on where to place wheel chocks when changing a wheel, see “Lifting the vehicle” (Y page 372).

Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Spare wheel G Observe Safety notes, see

page 366.

i USA only:

The ML 320 BlueTEC does not have a spare wheel.

i Canada only:

The ML 320 BlueTEC does not have a spare wheel. ML 320 BlueTEC vehicles that are factory equipped with 20'' wheels come with TIREFIT.

The spare wheel is located in the space underneath the cargo compartment floor. X Removing: Open the tailgate (Y page 90). X Lift the cargo compartment floor

(Y page 299).

! To prevent damage, always disengage the

securing hook from upper cargo compartment lip and lower the cargo compartment floor before closing the tailgate.

X Remove the storage well casing (if so

equipped) (Y page 300).

302

Example illustration 1 Retaining screw 2 Spare wheel X Remove retaining screw 1 by turning it

counterclockwise.

X Remove spare wheel 2. For information on mounting the spare wheel, see “Flat tire” (Y page 366).

Storing the spare wheel after use X Place the spare wheel into the spare wheel

well (Y page 302).

X Secure the spare wheel by turning the

retaining screw (Y page 302) clockwise.

X Place the storage well casing into the spare

wheel (Y page 300) (if so equipped).

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Notes Warning and malfunction messages appear in the multifunction display located in the instrument cluster. Certain warning and malfunction messages are accompanied by an audible signal. Address these messages accordingly and follow the additional instructions given in this Operator’s Manual. Selecting the Vehicle status message memory menu in the control system (Y page 151) displays both cleared and uncleared messages. High-priority messages appear in the multifunction display in red color. Certain messages of high priority cannot be cleared from the multifunction display using the reset button (Y page 138) or button j, k, · or è on the multifunction steering wheel. Other messages of high priority and messages of less immediate priority can be cleared from the multifunction display using the reset button (Y page 138) or button j, k, · or è on the

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

multifunction steering wheel. They are then stored in the Vehicle status message memory menu (Y page 151). Remember that clearing a message will only make the message disappear. Clearing a message will not correct the condition that caused the message to appear. G Warning! All categories of messages contain important information which should be taken note of and, where a malfunction is indicated, addressed as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Failure to repair the condition noted may cause damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty, or result in property damage or personal injury. G Warning! No messages will be displayed if either the instrument cluster or the multifunction display is inoperative. As a result, you will not be able to see information about your driving conditions, such as speed or outside temperature,

warning/indicator lamps, malfunction/ warning messages or the failure of any systems. Driving characteristics may be impaired. If you must continue to drive, please do so with added caution. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. On the pages that follow, you will find a compilation of the most important warning and malfunction messages that may appear in the multifunction display. For your convenience the messages are divided into text messages (Y page 304) and symbol messages (Y page 316).

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Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Text messages

Safety systems

Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

ABS, ESP Inoperative See Operator’s Manual

The brake system is still functioning normally but due to a malfunction, the ABS, the BAS and the ESP® are unavailable.

X Continue driving with added caution. Wheels

may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability.

X Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident.

ABS, ESP Unavailable See Operator’s Manual

ABS, ESP Unavailable See Operator’s Manual

The self-diagnosis may not be completed yet.

The display will clear after driving a short distance at a vehicle speed of above 12 mph (20 km/h).

The brake system still functions normally but due to insufficient power supply, the ABS, the BAS and the ESP® are unavailable.

When the voltage is above the required value again, the ABS is operational again and the message should disappear. X If the message does not disappear: Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center as soon as possible.

ABS

ABS

ABS

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Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

ESP

ESP

ESP

Inoperative See Operator’s Manual

Unavailable See Operator’s Manual

In addition, the yellow ESP® warning lamp v comes on. The brake system is still functioning normally but due to a malfunction the ESP® is unavailable. The ABS and the BAS may not be operational.

The brake system still functions normally but due to insufficient power supply the ESP® is unavailable.

X Continue driving with added caution. X Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident.

X Continue driving with added caution. When the voltage is above the required value again, the ESP® is operational again and the message in the multifunction display should disappear. If the message in the multifunction display does not disappear: X Have the alternator and the battery checked. X Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Unavailable See Operator’s Manual

If the yellow ESP® warning lamp v flashes while driving and this message appears, the 4-ETS has switched off to prevent overheating of the drive wheel brakes.

As soon as the brakes have cooled off, the 4-ETS switches on again. The message in the multifunction display disappears and the ESP® warning lamp v goes out.

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Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

ESP

PRE-SAFE

Unavailable See Operator’s Manual

Inoperative See Operator’s Manual

The self-diagnosis might not be completed yet.

The display will clear after driving a short distance at a vehicle speed of above 12 mph (20 km/h).

X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center

as soon as possible.

X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center

as soon as possible.

The PRE-SAFE® system itself has failed. All other occupant safety systems, such as the air bags, are still available.

If ESP® and PRE-SAFE® malfunction messages are displayed simultaneously, the PRE-SAFE® system has been deactivated as a result of these malfunctions. All other occupant safety systems, such as the air bags, are still available.

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Display messages

Front Passenger Airbag Enabled See Operator’s Manual

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

USA only: The front passenger front air bag is activated while driving even though a child, small individual, or object below the system’s weight threshold is on the front passenger seat, or the front passenger seat is empty. Objects on the seat or forces acting on the seat may make the system sense supplemental weight.

X Stop the vehicle in a safe location as soon as

possible.

X Engage the parking brake. X Switch off the ignition. X Open the front passenger door. X Remove child and child restraint from front

passenger seat and properly secure the child in rear seat employing the child restraint if necessary.

X Remove any other items from on and around the front passenger seat and make sure the parcel net on the back of the front passenger seat is empty.

X Make sure no objects which apply forces to the seat are present (e.g. objects such as books, briefcases etc. lodged behind or around the seat, head restraints pushing against roof etc.). The system may recognize such forces as supplemental weight and sense that an occupant on the front passenger seat is of a greater weight than actually present.

X Keep the seat unoccupied, close the front passenger door and switch on the ignition.

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Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

308

Possible solution Monitor the 59 indicator lamp in the center console (Y page 56) and the multifunction display in the instrument cluster (Y page 32) for the following: With the seat unoccupied and the ignition switched on, Rthe 59 indicator lamp in the

center console should illuminate and remain illuminated, indicating that the OCS (Y page 53) has deactivated the front passenger front air bag.

Rthe message Front Passenger Airbag

Enabled See Operator’s Manual or the message Front Passenger Airbag Disabled See Operator’s Manual should not appear in the multifunction display at any time the seat is unoccupied. Wait at least 60 seconds for the system to complete the necessary check cycles and to make sure neither message appears in the multifunction display.

If above conditions are met, you can occupy the front passenger seat again. Depending on the front passenger classification sensed by the

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution OCS, the 59 indicator lamp will remain illuminated or go out. If above conditions are not met, the system is not working properly. Have the system checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

G Warning! If the 59 indicator lamp remains out even after performing the above corrective steps, do not have any children 12 years old and under and other small individuals use the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

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Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Front Passenger Airbag Disabled See Operator’s Manual

USA only: The front passenger front air bag is deactivated while driving even though an adult or someone larger than a small individual is occupying the front passenger seat. Forces acting on the seat may make the system sense a decrease in weight.

Possible solution

X Stop the vehicle in a safe location as soon as

possible.

X Engage the parking brake. X Switch off the ignition. X Have the front passenger vacate the seat and

exit the vehicle.

X Adjust the seat height to a higher position

(Y page 97).

X Make sure no objects which apply forces to the seat are present (e.g. objects such as books, briefcases etc. lodged underneath, behind or around the seat). Such forces may cause the system to sense that an occupant of a lesser weight than actually present is on the front passenger seat.

X Keep the seat unoccupied, close the front passenger door and switch on the ignition.

Monitor the 59 indicator lamp in the center console (Y page 56) and the multifunction display in the instrument cluster (Y page 32) for the following:

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Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

With the seat unoccupied and the ignition switched on, Rthe 59 indicator lamp in the

center console should illuminate and remain illuminated, indicating that the OCS (Y page 53) has deactivated the front passenger front air bag.

Rthe message Front Passenger Airbag

Enabled See Operator’s Manual or the message Front Passenger Airbag Disabled See Operator’s Manual should not appear in the multifunction display at any time the seat is unoccupied. Wait at least 60 seconds for the system to complete the necessary check cycles and to make sure neither message appears in the multifunction display.

If above conditions are met, you can occupy the front passenger seat again. Depending on the front passenger classification sensed by the OCS, the 59 indicator lamp will remain illuminated or go out. If above conditions are not met, the system is not working properly. Have the system checked as

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Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

G Warning! If the 59 indicator lamp remains illuminated with an adult occupant on the front passenger seat even after performing the above corrective steps, do not have any passenger use the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Driving systems

Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

Cruise Control

Inoperative

The cruise control is malfunctioning.

X Have cruise control checked at an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

Cruise Control

- - - MPH (USA only) - - - Km/h (Canada only)

One of the activation conditions for cruise control has not been fulfilled. For example, you have attempted to set a speed below 20 mph (30 km/h).

X Drive faster than 20 mph (30 km/h), if the

situation allows, and set the speed.

X Check the activation conditions for cruise

control (Y page 164).

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Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

Vehicle

Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

Depress brake

to shift out of P.

You have attempted to shift the automatic transmission into drive position D, reverse gear R or neutral position N without depressing the brake pedal.

X Depress the brake pedal.

Door Open

Vehicle Not In Park You have opened the driver’s door and the

automatic transmission is still in drive position D, reverse gear R or neutral position N.

X Before you leave the vehicle, make sure the automatic transmission is in park position P and the parking brake is engaged.

Drive to workshop

without shifting gears.

The automatic transmission cannot be shifted out of the current transmission position because of a malfunction.

If the automatic transmission is in drive position D: X Without shifting the automatic transmission out of drive position D, drive to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If the automatic transmission is set to position neutral position N, reverse gear R or park position P: X Do not drive. X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center

or call Roadside Assistance.

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Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

You have attempted to shift the automatic transmission into park position P although the vehicle was still in motion.

Possible solution

X Stop the vehicle.

Shift to P or N to start engine.

You have attempted to start the engine with the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button while the automatic transmission was in reverse gear R or drive position D.

X Shift the automatic transmission into park

position P or neutral position N. Make sure the brake pedal is depressed.

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

then restart Run Flat Indicator.

There has been a warning message about a loss in the tire inflation pressure and the Run Flat Indicator was not restarted yet.

X Make sure the correct tire inflation pressure is

set for each tire.

X Then restart the Run Flat Indicator

(Y page 254).

The Run Flat Indicator is malfunctioning. X Have the Run Flat Indicator checked at an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Only shift to P when vehicle is at a standstill.

Tires

Display messages

Check tires,

Run Flat Indicator Inoperative

314

Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

Tire Pressure

Check Tires

The Run Flat Indicator indicates that the pressure is too low in one or more tires.

Tire Pressure Monitor

Inoperative

The TPMS is malfunctioning.

X Carefully bring the vehicle to a halt, avoiding

abrupt steering and braking maneuvers. Observe the traffic situation around you.

X Check and adjust tire inflation pressure as

required (Y page 253).

X If necessary, change the wheel (Y page 366). X Restart the Run Flat Indicator after adjusting

the tire inflation pressure values (Y page 254).

X Have the TPMS checked at an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

Tire Pressure Monitor

Inoperative No Wheel Sensors

There are wheels without appropriate wheel sensors mounted (e.g. winter tires).

X Have the TPMS checked at an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

Tire Pressure Monitor

Currently Unavailable

The TPMS is unable to monitor the tire inflation pressure due to a nearby radio interference source or insufficient power supply.

X Have the appropriate wheel sensors installed

at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

As soon as the causes of the malfunction have been removed, the TPMS becomes active again automatically after a few minutes driving.

315

Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display G Warning! Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You may lose control of the vehicle. Continued driving with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-up and possibly a fire. G Warning! Follow recommended tire inflation pressures. Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated. Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

Symbol messages

Brake

Display messages 2 Brake Wear

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

The brake pads have reached their wear limit.

X Have the brake pads replaced as soon as

possible.

! Brake pad thickness must be visually inspected by a qualified technician at the intervals specified in the Maintenance Booklet.

316

Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

(USA only) (Canada only)

(USA only) (Canada only)

(USA only) (Canada only)

EBV, ABS, ESP Inoperative See Operator’s Manual

The brake system is still functioning normally but due to a malfunction, the ABS, the BAS, the EBP and the ESP® are unavailable.

X Continue driving with added caution. Wheels

may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability.

X Adjust driving to be consistent with reduced

braking responsiveness.

X Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Release Parking Brake

You are driving with the parking brake engaged.

X Release the parking brake.

Check Brake Fluid Level

There is insufficient brake fluid in the reservoir.

Risk of accident! X Stop the vehicle in a safe location or as soon

as it is safe to do so.

X Do not drive any further. X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center

or call Roadside Assistance.

Do not add brake fluid! This will not solve the problem.

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Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display G Warning! Driving with the message Check Brake Fluid Level displayed can result in an accident. Have your brake system checked immediately. Do not add brake fluid before checking the brake system. Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the brake fluid catching fire. You can be seriously burned.

! If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for

brake pad thickness and leaks.

Safety systems

Display messages L Tele Aid

Inoperative

1 Restraint Sys.

Malfunction Service Required

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

One or more main functions of the Tele Aid system are malfunctioning.

X Have the Tele Aid system checked at an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

The system is malfunctioning.

X Drive with added caution to the nearest

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center and have the system checked immediately.

G 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 contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz 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.

318

Driving systems

Display messages n Level Selection

Not Permitted

n Malfunction

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

The selected vehicle level cannot adjusted, because Ryou are driving too fast for the desired

vehicle level

Ryou are towing a trailer Ryou are using accessories that are

connected to the trailer power socket, e.g. a bicycle rack

The air suspension is malfunctioning.

X Reduce vehicle speed and set the desired

vehicle level again (Y page 171).

X Observe the notes on trailer towing

(Y page 282).

X Do not drive faster than 50 mph (80 km/h). X Have the system checked at an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

319

Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages n Compressor Cooling

Down

Possible cause/consequence

You have selected a higher vehicle level. Due to frequent level changes within a short period, the compressor must cool down first. ! When the message Compressor

Cooling Down appears in the multifunction display, driving is still possible. Keep in mind that the ride height of the vehicle is not yet reached, so you can damage the underbody of the vehicle.

Possible solution

X Let the compressor cool down until the

message disappears. The selected level will be set once the compressor has cooled down.

{ Inoperative

Downhill Speed Regulation is malfunctioning.

X Have the Downhill Speed Regulation checked

at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Vehicle

Display messages

320

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

You are driving with the hood or the tailgate open.

You are trying to lock the vehicle with the KEYLESS-GO function with a door or the tailgate open.

X Close the hood or the tailgate.

X Close all doors and/or the tailgate.

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

Display messages

Possible cause/consequence

You are driving with at least one door open.

Possible solution

X Close all doors.

I Key Detected In

Vehicle

I Don’t Forget Your

Key

I Remove Key

A SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO left in the vehicle was recognized while trying to lock the vehicle from the outside.

This display appears for a maximum of 60 seconds if the driver’s door is opened with the engine turned off and no SmartKey in the starter switch. This message is only a reminder.

You have forgotten to remove the SmartKey.

I You need a new key. The SmartKey is malfunctioning. I Key Does Not Belong

The SmartKey in the starter switch does not belong to the vehicle.

to Vehicle

I Change Key Batteries

The batteries in the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO are discharged.

X Take the SmartKey out of the vehicle.

X Take the SmartKey with you when leaving the

vehicle.

X Remove the SmartKey from the starter switch.

X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Find the SmartKey that belongs to the vehicle

to operate the vehicle.

X Replace the batteries (Y page 353).

321

Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages I Key Not Detected

Possible cause/consequence

The SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is not detected while the engine is running because the SmartKey is not in the vehicle.

I Key Not Detected

The SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is not detected while the engine is running because there is strong radio-frequency interference.

I Key Not Detected

The SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is momentarily not detected.

I Pull starting

button out then insert key.

t Bluetooth Ready

The SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is permanently not detected.

The telephone has not yet been connected to the COMAND system via Bluetooth®.

322

Possible solution

X Stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. X Engage the parking brake. X Search for the SmartKey.

The vehicle cannot be locked centrally nor can the engine be started again after the engine is stopped.

X Stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. X Engage the parking brake. X Operate the vehicle with the SmartKey in the

starter switch.

X Change the position of the SmartKey in the

vehicle.

X Operate the vehicle with the SmartKey in the

starter switch if necessary.

X Operate the vehicle with the SmartKey in the

starter switch.

X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Connect the telephone to the COMAND system

via Bluetooth®.

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

Display messages Possible cause/consequence W Top Up Washer Fluid The fluid level has dropped to

approximately 1/3 of total reservoir capacity.

Possible solution X Add washer fluid (Y page 244).

Engine

Display messages B Top Up Coolant See Operator’s Manual

Possible cause/consequence

The coolant level is too low.

Possible solution X Add coolant (Y page 243). X If you have to add coolant frequently, have the

cooling system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

G Warning! Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which may burn if it comes into contact with hot engine parts. You could be seriously burned.

! Do not ignore the low engine coolant level warning. Extended driving with the message and symbol displayed may cause serious engine

damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Do not drive without sufficient amount of coolant in the cooling system. The engine will overheat causing major engine damage.

323

Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages Ì Coolant

The coolant is too hot.

Possible cause/consequence

Stop car, switch engine off.

Possible solution

X Stop the vehicle immediately as soon as it is

safe to do so.

X Turn off the engine immediately. X Engage the parking brake. X Only start the engine again after the message disappears. You could otherwise damage the engine.

X Observe the coolant temperature in the

multifunction display.

X If the temperature rises again: Contact an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately.

During severe operation conditions and stop- and-go city traffic, the coolant temperature may rise close to 248‡ (120†).

G Warning! Driving when your engine is 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 which can occur just by opening the engine hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Stop the vehicle in a safe location away from other traffic. Turn off the engine, get out of the vehicle and do not stand near the vehicle until the engine has cooled down.

324

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display ! The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature above 248‡ (120†). Doing so may cause serious damage which is not

covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Practical hints

325

Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages Ì Coolant

Possible cause/consequence

The poly-V-belt could be broken.

Stop car, switch engine off.

Possible solution

X Stop the vehicle immediately as soon as it is

safe to do so.

X Turn off the engine immediately. X Check the poly-V-belt. X If it is broken: Do not continue to drive.

Otherwise the engine will overheat due to an inoperative water pump which may result in damage to the engine. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X If it is intact: Do not continue to drive the

vehicle with this message displayed. Doing so could result in serious engine damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

X Observe the coolant temperature in the

multifunction display.

X Drive to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center immediately.

326

Display messages Ì

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

The cooling fan for the coolant is malfunctioning.

The battery is no longer charging. Possible causes: Ralternator malfunctioning Rbroken poly-V-belt Ra malfunction in the electronic system

X Observe the coolant temperature in the

multifunction display. If the coolant temperature is below 248‡ (120†), you may continue driving to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Avoid placing heavy loads on the engine (e.g. by driving uphill) as well as stop-and-go traffic.

X Have the fan replaced as soon as possible.

X Stop immediately in a safe location or as soon as it is safe to do so and check the poly-V-belt.

X If it is broken: Do not continue to drive.

Otherwise the engine will overheat due to an inoperative water pump which may result in damage to the engine. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X If it is intact: Drive to the nearest authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center immediately. Adjust driving to be consistent with reduced braking responsiveness.

327

Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages # Battery/Alternator

The battery is defective.

Possible cause/consequence

Stop Vehicle

N Check engine oil

level at next refueling.

The engine oil level is too low.

Possible solution

X Stop the vehicle in a safe location or as soon

as it is safe to do so.

X Engage the parking brake. X Do not continue to drive. X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Check the engine oil level (Y page 241) and add

engine oil as required (Y page 242).

X If you must add engine oil frequently, have the

engine checked for possible leaks.

If the message Check engine oil level at next refueling. appears while the engine is running and at operating temperature, the engine oil level has dropped to approximately the minimum level. The message will be stored in the vehicle status message memory after you have cleared it from the multifunction display.

Visually check for oil leaks. If there are no obvious oil leaks, drive to the nearest service station to refill your engine oil to the required level. For information on approved engine oils contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or visit www.mbusa.com (USA only).

! Engine oil level warnings should not be

ignored. Extended driving with the symbol displayed could result in serious engine damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

328

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display

Practical hints

Display messages

¿

Possible cause/consequence

Possible solution

The fuel level is low.

X Refuel at the next gas station.

4 Reserve Fuel

4 Ultra Low-sulfur Diesel Fuel Only

The fuel level has dropped below the reserve mark.

Vehicles with diesel engine only: The fuel level has dropped below the reserve mark.

4 Gas Cap Open

A loss of pressure has been detected in the fuel system. The fuel cap may not be closed properly or the fuel system may be leaky.

ò Replace air filter

The air filter is clogged.

] Clean Fuel Filter

There is water in the fuel filter.

û Check Additive See Operator's Manual

The AdBlue® supply is almost depleted.

X Refuel at the next gas station.

X Refuel at the next gas station. X Only use commercially available vehicular

ULTRA-LOW SULFUR DIESEL FUEL (15 ppm SULFUR MAXIMUM).

X Check the fuel cap (Y page 237). X If it is not closed properly: Close the fuel cap. X If it is closed properly: Have the fuel system

checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Have the air filter checked at an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Have the water drained at an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

X Have the AdBlue® tank refilled as soon as

possible (Y page 380). Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

329

Practical hints

Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display Display messages û Remaining Starts: 20

Possible cause/consequence

The AdBlue® supply has dropped to the minimum level.

Possible solution

X Have the AdBlue® tank refilled immediately

(Y page 380). Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

i When the message Remaining

Starts: 20 appears in the multifunction display, you can start the engine 20 more times. If you do not add AdBlue®, the

engine cannot be started beyond that point. Therefore, fill the AdBlue® tank with approximately 1 gal (3.79 l) AdBlue® (corresponds to approximately 2 refill

containers AdBlue®) or have the AdBlue® tank filled at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. After AdBlue® was refilled, the engine can be started again.

Lamps

Display messages . Active Headlamps

Inoperative

. Reverse Lamp Left