2012 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

X Remove the cover in the front wheel arch

(Y page 115).

X Turn cap ; counter-clockwise and remove

it.

X Pull out bulb holder :. X Take the bulb out of bulb holder :. X Insert the new bulb into bulb holder :. X Insert bulb holder :. X Align cap ; and turn it clockwise.

X Install the cover in the front wheel arch

(Y page 115).

Changing the rear bulbs

Opening and closing the service flap

You must open the service flap in the cargo compartment before you can change the bulbs in the tail lamps.

Left-hand service flap

Right-hand service flap

X To open: release service flap : at the top,

e.g. with a screwdriver, and swing it downward in the direction of the arrow.

X Right side: remove the first-aid kit

beforehand and pull the parcel net down.

X To close: reinsert service flap :.

Brake lamp

X Switch off the lights.

X Open the cargo compartment.

X Open the service flap (Y page 117).

: Brake lamp

X Turn the bulb holder counter-clockwise and

remove it.

X Remove the bulb from the bulb holder.

X Insert the new bulb into the bulb holder.

X Insert the bulb holder and turn it clockwise.

X Close the service flap (Y page 117).

118 Windshield wipers

Windshield wipers

Switching the windshield wipers on/

off

G WARNING Wiper blades are components that are subject to wear and tear. Replace the wiper blades twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. Otherwise the windows will not be wiped properly. As a result, you may not be able to observe surrounding traffic conditions and could cause an accident.

! Do not operate the windshield wipers

when the windshield is dry, as this could damage the wiper blades. Moreover, dust that has collected on the windshield can scratch the glass if wiping takes place when the windshield is dry.

! If the windshield wipers leave smears on the windshield after the vehicle has been washed in an automatic car wash, wax or other residues may be the reason for this. Clean the windshield using washer fluid after washing the vehicle in an automatic car wash.

B í Single wipe C î To wipe with washer fluid

X Switch on the ignition.

X Turn the combination switch to the

appropriate position or press the button on the side.

! Intermittent wiping with rain sensor: due

to optical influences and the windshield becoming dirty in dry weather conditions, the windshield wipers may be activated inadvertently. This could then damage the windshield wiper blades or scratch the windshield.

For this reason, you should always switch off the windshield wipers in dry weather.

In theÄ orÅ position, the appropriate wiping frequency is set automatically according to the intensity of the rain. In the Å position, the rain sensor is more sensitive than in the Ä position, causing the windshield wipers to wipe more frequently.

Switching the rear window wiper on/

off

Combination switch 1 $ Windshield wipers off 2 Ä Intermittent wipe, low7
3 Å Intermittent wipe, high8
4 ° Continuous wipe, slow 5 ¯ Continuous wipe, fast

7 Rain sensor set to low sensitivity. 8 Rain sensor set to high sensitivity.

Combination switch : è Rear window wiper switch 2 b To wipe with washer fluid 3 ° To switch on intermittent wiping

Windshield wipers

119

4 e To switch off intermittent wiping 5 b To wipe with washer fluid

Changing the windshield wiper blades

Removing the wiper blades

X Turn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the

X Remove the SmartKey from the ignition

ignition lock.

lock.

X Slide switch : on the combination switch

X Fold the wiper arm away from the

up or down to the appropriate position. When the rear window wiper is switched on, the icon appears in the instrument cluster.

windshield.

Replacing the wiper blades

Important safety notes

G WARNING For safety reasons, switch off the windshield wipers and remove the key from the ignition lock before changing the wiper blades (vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: make sure that the on-board electronics are in state 0). Otherwise, the wiper motor could be switched on suddenly and cause injury.

! To avoid damaging the wiper blades,

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

! Never open the hood if a windshield wiper

arm has been folded away from the windshield.

Never fold a windshield wiper arm without a wiper blade back onto the windshield/ rear window.

Hold the windshield wiper arm firmly when you change the wiper blade. If you release the windshield wiper arm without a wiper blade and it falls onto the windshield, the windshield may be damaged by the force of the impact.

Mercedes-Benz recommends that you have the wiper blades replaced by a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Firmly press release knob : and pull the wiper blade upwards from the wiper arm in the direction of the arrow.

Installing the wiper blades

X Position the new wiper blade in the retainer on the wiper arm and slide it into place in the opposite direction to the arrow. The wiper blade audibly engages.

X Make sure that wiper blade is seated

correctly.

X Fold the wiper arm back onto the

windshield.

Replacing the rear window wiper blade

Removing the wiper blade

G WARNING The wiper arm could be set in motion and injure you if the wiper is switched on.

Remove the key from the ignition lock before replacing the wiper blade.

120 Windshield wipers

X For safety reasons, you should remove the

SmartKey from the ignition lock.

or

X Switch off the engine using the Start/Stop

button and open the driver's door.

X Remove the cause of the obstruction.

X Switch the windshield wipers back on.

The windshield wipers are inoperative

The windshield wiper drive is malfunctioning.

X Select another wiper speed on the

combination switch.

X Have the windshield wipers checked at a

qualified specialist workshop.

The spray nozzles are misaligned

The windshield washer fluid from the spray nozzles no longer hits the center of the windshield. The spray nozzles are misaligned.

X Have the spray nozzles adjusted at a

qualified specialist workshop.

X Remove the SmartKey from the ignition

lock.

X Fold wiper arm : away from the rear

window until it engages.

X Position wiper blade ; at a right angle to

wiper arm :.

X Hold wiper arm : and press wiper

blade ; in the direction of the arrow until it releases.

X Remove wiper blade ;.

Installing the wiper blade X Place new wiper blade ; onto wiper

arm :.

X Hold wiper arm : and press wiper

blade ; in the opposite direction to the arrow until it engages.

X Make sure that wiper blade ; is seated

correctly.

X Position wiper blade ; parallel to wiper

arm :.

X Fold wiper arm : back onto the rear

window.

Problems with the windshield wipers

The windshield wipers are obstructed

Leaves or snow, for example, may be obstructing the windshield wiper movement. The wiper motor has been deactivated.

Useful information ............................ 122

Overview of climate control sys- tems ................................................... 122

Operating the climate control sys- tem ..................................................... 128

Setting the air vents ......................... 134

121

122 Overview of climate control systems

i Ventilate the vehicle for a brief period

during warm weather, e.g. using the convenience opening feature (Y page 86). This will speed up the cooling process and the desired vehicle interior temperature will be reached more quickly.

i The integrated filter can filter out most

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

Useful information

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

i Please read the information on qualified

specialist workshops (Y page 25).

Overview of climate control systems

Important safety notes

G WARNING Severe conditions (e.g. strong air pollution) may require replacement of the filter before its scheduled replacement interval. A clogged filter will reduce the air volume to the interior and the windows could fog up, impairing visibility and endangering you and others. Have a blocked filter replaced at a Mercedes- Benz Center as soon as possible.

G WARNING Follow the recommended settings for heating and cooling given on the following pages. Otherwise, the windows could fog up, impairing visibility and endangering you and others.

Automatic climate control controls the temperature and the humidity of the vehicle interior and filters out undesirable substances from the air.

Automatic climate control is only operational when the engine is running9. Optimum operation is only achieved if you drive with the side windows and sliding sunroof/panorama roof with power tilt/sliding panel closed.

9 The residual heat function can only be activated/deactivated when the ignition is switched off.

Overview of climate control systems

123

Control panel for dual-zone climate control

Canada only : Sets the temperature, left (Y page 130)

; Defrosts the windshield (Y page 131)

= Switches the ZONE function on/off (Y page 131)

? Activates/deactivates cooling with air dehumidification (Y page 128)

Activates/deactivates the residual heat function (Y page 133)

A Switches the rear window defroster on/off (Y page 132)

B Sets the temperature, right (Y page 130)

C Activates/deactivates air-recirculation mode (Y page 133)

D Sets the air distribution (Y page 130)

E Increases the airflow (Y page 131)

F Reduces the airflow (Y page 131)

G Switches climate control on/off (Y page 128)

H Sets climate control to automatic (Y page 129)

124 Overview of climate control systems

USA only : Sets the temperature, left (Y page 130)

; Defrosts the windshield (Y page 131)

= Switches maximum cooling MAX COOL on/off (Y page 132)

? Activates/deactivates cooling with air dehumidification (Y page 128)

A Switches the rear window defroster on/off (Y page 132)

B Sets the temperature, right (Y page 130)

C Activates/deactivates air-recirculation mode (Y page 133)

D Sets the air distribution (Y page 130)

E Increases the airflow (Y page 131)

F Reduces the airflow (Y page 131)

G Switches climate control on/off (Y page 128)

H Sets climate control to automatic (Y page 129)

Rear control panel only in connection with special equipment seat heating : Sets the rear-compartment climate control to automatic

; Switches rear-compartment climate control on/off

Overview of climate control systems

125

= Directs the airflow through the rear air vents

? Directs the airflow through the footwell vents

Notes on using climate control

The following contains notes and recommendations on optimum operation of dual-zone automatic climate control. RActivate climate control using theà and ¿/Á buttons. The indicator lamps in the à and ¿/Á buttons light up.

RSet the temperature to 72 ‡ (22 †).

ROnly use the "defrosting" function briefly

until the windshield is clear again.

ROnly use "air-recirculation" mode briefly, e.g. if there are unpleasant outside odors or when in a tunnel. The windows could otherwise fog up as, in air-recirculation mode, no fresh air is drawn into the vehicle.

RUse the ZONE function to adopt the

temperature settings on the driver's side for the front-passenger side as well. The indicator lamp in theá button goes out.

126 Overview of climate control systems

Control panel for 3-zone automatic climate control

Canada only : Sets the temperature, left (Y page 130)

; Defrosts the windshield (Y page 131)

= Activates/deactivates the residual heat function (Y page 133)

? Activates/deactivates cooling with air dehumidification (Y page 128)

A Switches the rear window defroster on/off (Y page 132)

B Sets the temperature, right (Y page 130)

C Switches the ZONE function on/off (Y page 131)

D Switches climate control on/off (Y page 128)

E Sets the air distribution (Y page 130)

F Increases the airflow (Y page 131)

G Reduces the airflow (Y page 131)

H Display

I Adjusts the climate control settings (AIR FLOW) (Y page 129)

J Activates/deactivates air-recirculation mode (Y page 133)

K Sets climate control to automatic (Y page 129)

Rear control panel

L Increases the airflow (Y page 131)

M Sets the temperature (Y page 130)

N Sets the rear-compartment climate control to automatic (Y page 129)

O Directs the airflow through the rear air vents (Y page 130)

P Directs the airflow through the footwell vents (Y page 130)

Q Switches rear-compartment climate control on/off (Y page 128)

R Reduces the airflow (Y page 131)

Overview of climate control systems

127

USA only : Sets the temperature, left (Y page 130)

; Defrosts the windshield (Y page 131)

= Switches maximum cooling MAX COOL on/off (Y page 132)

? Activates/deactivates cooling with air dehumidification (Y page 128)

A Switches the rear window defroster on/off (Y page 132)

B Sets the temperature, right (Y page 130)

C Switches the ZONE function on/off (Y page 131)

D Switches climate control on/off (Y page 128)

E Sets the air distribution (Y page 130)

F Increases the airflow (Y page 131)

G Reduces the airflow (Y page 131)

H Display

I Adjusts the climate control settings (AIR FLOW) (Y page 129)

J Activates/deactivates air-recirculation mode (Y page 133)

K Sets climate control to automatic (Y page 129)

Rear control panel

L Increases the airflow (Y page 131)

M Sets the temperature (Y page 130)

N Sets the rear-compartment climate control to automatic (Y page 129)

O Directs the airflow through the rear air vents (Y page 130)

P Directs the airflow through the footwell vents (Y page 130)

Q Switches rear-compartment climate control on/off (Y page 128)

R Reduces the airflow (Y page 131)

128 Operating the climate control system

Notes on using 3-zone automatic

climate control

windows could fog up, impairing visibility and endangering you and others.

The following contains notes and recommendations on optimum operation of automatic climate control. RActivate climate control using theà and

¿ buttons. The indicator lamps in the à and ¿ buttons light up.

RIn automatic mode, you can also use the

ñ button to set a climate mode (FOCUS/MEDIUM/DIFFUSE). The MEDIUM level is recommended.

i Switch on climate control primarily using

the à button (Y page 129).

In the rear compartment, you can also switch climate control on and off using theà and ^ buttons.

Activating/deactivating

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

RSet the temperature to 72 ‡ (22 †).

X To switch on: press the à button.

ROnly use the "defrosting" function briefly

until the windshield is clear again.

ROnly use "air-recirculation" mode briefly, e.g. if there are unpleasant outside odors or when in a tunnel. The windows could otherwise fog up as, in air-recirculation mode, no fresh air is drawn into the vehicle.

RUse the ZONE function to adopt the

temperature settings on the driver's side for the front-passenger side and the rear compartment as well. The indicator lamp in the á button goes out.

RUse the residual heat function if you want

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

Operating the climate control system

Activating/deactivating climate

control

Important information

G WARNING When the climate control system is deactivated, the outside air supply and circulation are also deactivated. Only choose this setting for a short time. Otherwise the

The indicator lamp in theà button lights up. Airflow and air distribution are set to automatic mode.

or X Press the ^ button.

The indicator lamp in the^ button goes out. The previously selected settings come into effect again.

X To switch off: press the ^ button.

The indicator lamp in the^ button lights up.

Activating/deactivating the cooling

with air dehumidification function

Important information

The cooling with air dehumidification function is only available when the engine is running. The air inside the vehicle is cooled and dehumidified according to the temperature selected.

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

Condensation may drip from the underside of the vehicle when it is in cooling mode. This is

Operating the climate control system 129

normal and not a sign that there is a malfunction.

is also activated. If desired, cooling with air dehumidification can be deactivated.

i The cooling with air dehumidification function uses refrigerant R134a. This coolant does not contain chlorofluorocarbons, and therefore does not damage the ozone layer.

Activating/deactivating

X To activate: press the ¿/Á button.

The indicator lamp in the ¿/Á button lights up.

X To deactivate: press the ¿/Á

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

Problems with the cooling with air

dehumidification function

When you press the ¿/Á button, the indicator lamp in the button flashes three times or remains off. You can no longer switch on the cooling with air dehumidification function.

X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

Setting climate control to automatic

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

In automatic mode, the set temperature is maintained automatically at a constant level. The system automatically regulates the temperature of the dispensed air, the airflow and the air distribution.

Automatic mode will achieve optimal operation if cooling with air dehumidification

In the rear compartment, you can also switch climate control for the rear seats to automatic mode using the à button.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Set the desired temperature. X To activate: press the à button.

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

i Automatic climate control: when

automatic mode is activated, you can select a climate mode setting (Y page 129).

X To switch off: press the _ button.

or X Press the I or K button.

The indicator lamp in theà button goes out.

Adjusting the climate mode settings

(AIR FLOW)

This function is only available with automatic climate control.

The climate control settings are especially effective at high temperatures.

You can select the following climate control settings in automatic mode:

FOCUS

high airflow that is set slightly cooler

MEDIUM medium airflow, standard setting

DIFFUSE low airflow that is set slightly

warmer and with a lower rate of airflow

130 Operating the climate control system

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Press the à button. X Press the ñ button repeatedly until the

desired climate mode appears in the display.

Setting the temperature

Climate control

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

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To increase/reduce: turn controls : and

B clockwise or counterclockwise (Y page 123). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 † ).

3-zone automatic climate control

Automatic climate control zones

You can select different temperature settings for the driver's and front-passenger sides as well as for the rear compartment.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To increase/reduce the temperature in

the front: turn controls : and B

10 For Canada only.

clockwise or counterclockwise (Y page 126). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 † ).

X To increase/reduce the temperature in

the rear compartment using the front control panel: press the á button. The indicator lamp in theá button goes out.

X Turn control : clockwise or

counterclockwise (Y page 126). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 † ).

The temperature setting for the driver's side is adopted for the rear compartment and the front-passenger side.

X To increase/decrease the rear

compartment temperature using the rear control panel: turn control M on the rear control panel clockwise or counterclockwise (Y page 126). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 † ).

Setting the air distribution

Front control unit:

P Directs air through the center vents. O Directs the airflow through the

footwell air vents

S Directs the airflow through the center

and footwell vents.

¯ Directs the airflow through the

defroster vents

b Directs the airflow through the

defroster and center vents10

a Directs the airflow through the

footwell and defroster vents

_ Directs the airflow through the

defroster, center and footwell air vents10

Operating the climate control system 131

Rear control panel:

M Directs the airflow through the rear

center and rear side air vents. O Directs the airflow through the

footwell air vents

i Using the rear control panel, you can also

activate both air distribution positions simultaneously. In order to do this, press both air distribution buttons. The air is then routed through all rear air vents.

i Regardless of the air distribution setting, airflow is always directed through the side air vents. The side air vents can only be closed when the controls on the side air vents are turned downwards.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Front control panel: press the _

button repeatedly until the desired symbol appears in the display.

X Rear control panel: press the M and/

or O button.

Setting the airflow

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To increase: press the K button. X To reduce: press the I button.

i You can use automatic climate control to

set the airflow in the rear compartment separately.

Switching the ZONE function on/off

X To switch on: press the á button.

The indicator lamp in theá button lights up.

Dual-zone automatic climate control: the temperature setting for the driver's side is

11 Only with engine running. 12 Depending on the outside temperature.

not adopted for the front-passenger side. The temperature of the front-passenger side is adopted for the rear compartment.

Automatic climate control: the temperature setting for the driver's side is not adopted for the front-passenger side and the rear compartment.

When the buttons or controls for temperature, airflow or air distribution are activated, the temperature setting for the driver's side is not adopted for the other climate control zones. X To switch off: press the á button.

The indicator lamp in theá button goes out.

The temperature setting for the driver's side is adopted for the front-passenger side and the rear compartment.

Defrosting the windshield

You can use this function to defrost the windshield or to defrost the inside of the windshield and the side windows.

i You should only select the defrosting

function until the windshield is clear again.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To activate: press the ¬ button.

The indicator lamp in the¬ button lights up.

The climate control system switches to the following functions:

Rcooling with air dehumidification on11

Rhigh airflow12

Rhigh temperature12

Rair distribution to the windshield and

front side windows

Rair-recirculation mode off

132 Operating the climate control system

X To switch off: press the ¬ button.

The indicator lamp in the¬ button goes out. The previously selected settings come into effect again. The cooling with air dehumidification function remains on. Air- recirculation mode remains deactivated.

or X Press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the¬ button goes out. Airflow and air distribution are set to automatic mode.

Defrosting the windows

Windows fogged up on the inside

X Activate the ¿/Á cooling with air

dehumidification function.

X Activate automatic mode Ã.

X If the windows continue to fog up, activate

the defrosting function (Y page 131).

i You should only select this setting until

the windshield is clear again.

or X Turn controls : or B clockwise or

counter-clockwise (Y page 123), (Y page 123).

or X Press the K or I button.

Switching maximum cooling MAX

COOL on/off

The MAX COOL function is only available in vehicles for the USA.

MAX COOL is only operational when the engine is running.

When you activate MAX COOL, climate control switches to the following functions:

Rmaximum cooling

Rmaximum airflow

Rair-recirculation mode on X To activate: press the Ù button.

The indicator lamp in the button lights up.

X To deactivate: press the Ù button

again. The indicator lamp goes out. The previously selected settings come into effect again.

Windows fogged up on the outside

X Activate the windshield wipers. X Press the _ button repeatedly until the

P or O symbol appears in the display.

i You should only select this setting until

the windshield is clear again.

Rear window defroster

Activating/deactivating

G WARNING Any accumulation of snow and ice should be removed from the rear window before driving. Visibility could otherwise be impaired, endangering you and others.

The rear window defroster has a high current draw. You should therefore switch it off as soon as the window is clear as it only switches off automatically after several minutes.

If the battery voltage is too low, the rear window defroster may switch off.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Press the ¤ button.

The indicator lamp in the¤ button lights up or goes out.

Operating the climate control system 133

Problems with the rear window

defroster

The rear window defroster has deactivated itself prematurely or cannot be activated.

X Switch off any consumers that are not required, e.g. reading lamps or interior lighting. When the battery is sufficiently charged, the rear window defroster is activated again automatically.

Activating/deactivating air-

recirculation mode

You can deactivate the flow of fresh air if unpleasant odors are entering the vehicle from outside. The air already inside the vehicle will then be recirculated.

The operation of air-recirculation mode is the same for all control panels.

G WARNING Fogged windows impair visibility, endangering you and others. If the windows begin to fog on the inside, switching off the air recirculation mode immediately should clear interior window fogging. If interior window fogging persists, make sure the air conditioning is activated, or press the ¬ button.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To activate: press the d button.

The indicator lamp in thed button lights up.

i In the event of high pollution levels13 or at

high outside temperatures, air- recirculation mode is automatically activated. When air-recirculation mode is activated automatically, the indicator lamp in the d button is not lit.

Outside air is added after about 30
minutes.

13 Automatic climate control only.

X To switch off: press the d button.

The indicator lamp in thed button goes out.

i Air-recirculation mode deactivates

automatically:

Rafter approximately five minutes if

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

Rafter approximately five minutes if cooling with air dehumidification is deactivated

Rafter approximately 30 minutes if outside

temperatures are over about 41 ‡ (5 †)

Rif you press the ¿/Á button and

switch on cooling with air dehumidification

Activating/deactivating the residual

heat function

The residual heat function is only available in Canada

It is possible to make use of the residual heat of the engine to continue heating the stationary vehicle for up to 30 minutes after the engine has been switched off. The heating time depends on the temperature that has been set.

i The blower will run at a low speed

regardless of the airflow setting.

i If you activate the residual heat function at high temperatures, only the ventilation will be activated. The blower runs at medium speed.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the

ignition lock or remove it.

X To activate: press the Ì/Á button.

The indicator lamp in the Ì/Á button lights up.

134 Setting the air vents

X To deactivate: press the Ì/Á

button. The indicator lamp in the Ì/Á button goes out.

i Residual heat is deactivated

automatically:

Rafter about 30 minutes

Rwhen the ignition is switched on

Rif the battery voltage drops

Rif the coolant temperature is too low

Setting the air vents

Important safety notes

G WARNING When operating the climate control, the air that enters the passenger compartment through the air vents can be very hot or very cold (depending on the set temperature). This could cause burns or frostbite to unprotected skin in the immediate area of the air vents.

Always keep sufficient distance between unprotected parts of the body and the air vents. If necessary, use the air distribution adjustment to direct the air to air vents in the vehicle interior that are not in the immediate area of unprotected skin.

In order to ensure the direct flow of fresh air through the air vents into the vehicle interior, please observe the following notes:

Rkeep the air inlet grille on the hood and in

the engine compartment on the front- passenger side free of blockages, such as ice, snow or leaves.

Setting the center air vents

: Center air vent, left

; Center air vent, right

= Center vent thumbwheel, right

? Center vent thumbwheel, left

X To open/close: turn thumbwheels =

and ? to the right or left.

Setting the side air vents

X To open/close: turn thumbwheel = up or

down.

Rnever cover the air vents or air intake grills

Setting the glove box air vent

in the vehicle interior.

i For virtually draft-free ventilation, adjust

the sliders of the air vents to the center position.

When automatic climate control is activated, the glove box can be cooled, for instance to cool its contents. The level of airflow depends on the airflow and air distribution settings.

At high outside temperatures, open the air vent and activate the "cooling with air dehumidification" function.

Setting the air vents

135

! Close the air vent if you do not wish to

X To open/close: turn thumbwheel : up or

cool the glove box or you have not switched on cooling with air dehumidification.

down.

Moisture-sensitive items stored in the glove box could otherwise be damaged.

Setting the rear-compartment side air

vents

These rear-compartment side air vents are only available if your vehicle has 3-zone automatic climate control.

: Air vent thumbwheel

; Air vent

X To open: turn thumbwheel : counter-

clockwise.

: B-pillar air vent

X To close: turn thumbwheel : clockwise.

; Thumbwheel for B-pillar air vent

X To open/close: turn thumbwheel ; to the

left or right.

Setting the rear-compartment air

vents

Setting the center vents in the rear

compartment

Example: center vents in the rear compartment with rear control panel : Rear-compartment air vent thumbwheel

; Rear-compartment air vent, right

= Rear control panel

? Rear-compartment air vent, left

136

Useful information ............................ 138

Breaking-in notes .............................. 138

Driving ............................................... 138

Automatic transmission ................... 144

Refueling ............................................ 149

Parking ............................................... 155

Driving tips ........................................ 157

Driving systems ................................ 167

Off-road driving systems .................. 208

Trailer towing .................................... 210

137

138 Driving

Useful information

Driving

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

i Please read the information on qualified

specialist workshops (Y page 25).

Breaking-in notes

The first 1000 miles (1500 km)

The more you look after the engine when it is new, the more satisfied you will be with its performance in the future.

RDrive at varying vehicle speeds and engine speeds for the first 1000 miles (1500 km) for this reason.

RAvoid overstraining the vehicle during this

period, e.g. driving at full throttle.

RChange gear in good time, at the latest

when the tachometer needle is ⅔ of the way to the red area in the tachometer display.

RDo not manually shift to a lower gear to

brake the vehicle.

ROnly select shift ranges 3, 2 or 1 when

driving slowly, e.g. in mountainous terrain.

Important safety notes

G WARNING Make sure absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure the pedals still have sufficient clearance.

During sudden driving or braking maneuvers the objects could get caught between the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury.

G WARNING On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control.

G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.

After 1000 miles (1500 km), you can increase the engine speed gradually and bring the vehicle up to full speed.

! Warm up the engine quickly. Do not use the engine's full performance until it has reached operating temperature.

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

i Always observe the respective speed

restrictions.

Only shift the automatic transmission to the desired drive position when the vehicle is stationary.

Where possible, avoid spinning the drive wheels when pulling away on slippery roads. You could otherwise damage the drive train.

SmartKey positions

SmartKey

g To remove the SmartKey

1 Power supply for some consumers, such

as the windshield wipers

2 Ignition (power supply for all consumers)

and drive position 3 To start the engine

As soon as the ignition is switched on, all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster light up. If an indicator lamp does not go out after the engine is started or if it lights up while the vehicle is in motion, see (Y page 271).

If the SmartKey is in position 0 in the ignition lock for an extended period of time, it can no longer be turned in the ignition lock. The steering is then locked. To unlock, remove the SmartKey and reinsert it into the ignition lock.

The steering is locked when you remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock.

X Remove the SmartKey when the engine is

switched off. The starter battery could otherwise be discharged.

If you cannot turn the SmartKey in the ignition lock, the starter battery may not be charged sufficiently.

X Check the starter battery and recharge it if

necessary (Y page 340).

or

X Jump-start the vehicle (Y page 341).

Driving 139

i The SmartKey can be turned in the

ignition lock even if it is not the correct SmartKey for the vehicle. The ignition is not switched on. The engine cannot be started.

KEYLESS-GO

General information

Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO are equipped with a SmartKey featuring an integrated KEYLESS- GO function and a detachable Start/Stop button.

The Start/Stop button must be inserted in the ignition lock and the KEYLESS-GO key must be in the vehicle.

Pressing the Start/Stop button several times in succession corresponds to the different SmartKey positions in the ignition lock. This is only the case if you are not depressing the brake pedal.

If you depress the brake pedal and press the Start/Stop button, the engine starts immediately.

The Start/Stop button can be removed from the ignition lock. Then, you can insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock.

i You do not have to remove the Start/Stop

button from the ignition lock when you leave the vehicle. However, you should always take the SmartKey with you when leaving the vehicle. The vehicle can be started with the Start/Stop button and the electrical equipment can be operated while the SmartKey is in the vehicle.

140 Driving

X Insert Start/Stop button : into ignition

Starting the engine

lock ;.

Important safety notes

i When you insert Start/Stop button :

into ignition lock ;, the system requires a detection time of approximately two seconds before you can use Start/Stop button :.

Start/Stop button = USA only

? Canada only

X Position 0: if Start/Stop button : has not yet been pressed, this corresponds to the SmartKey being removed from the ignition.

X Position 1: press Start/Stop button :

once. You can now activate the windshield wipers, for example.

i If you press Start/Stop button : twice when in this position, the power supply is deactivated again.

X Position 2 (ignition): press Start/Stop

button : twice.

i If you press Start/Stop button : once

when in this position and the driver's door is open, the power supply is deactivated again.

As soon as the ignition is switched on, all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster light up. If an indicator lamp does not go out after the engine is started or if it lights up while the vehicle is in motion, see (Y page 271).

G WARNING Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause unconsciousness and possible death.

Do not run the engine in confined areas (such as a garage) which are not properly ventilated. If you think that exhaust gas fumes are entering the vehicle while driving, have the cause determined and corrected immediately. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with at least one window fully open at all times.

i Vehicles with a gasoline engine: the

catalytic converter preheats for up to 30
seconds after a cold start. During this time, the engine sound may be different.

Automatic transmission

X Shift the transmission to position P.

The transmission position display in the multifunction display shows P (Y page 145).

i You can also start the engine when the

transmission is in position N.

Starting procedure with the SmartKey

X To start a gasoline engine: turn the

SmartKey to position 3 in the ignition lock (Y page 139) and release it as soon as the engine is running.

X To start a diesel engine: turn the

SmartKey to position 2 in the ignition lock (Y page 139). The % preglow indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up.

X When the % preglow indicator lamp

goes out, turn the SmartKey to position 3
(Y page 139) and release it as soon as the engine is running.

i You can start the engine without preglow

if the engine is warm.

i You can also use the touch-start function. To do this, turn the SmartKey to position 3
(Y page 139) and release it immediately. The engine then starts automatically.

Using KEYLESS-GO to start the engine

G WARNING As long as the SmartKey is in your vehicle, the vehicle can be started. Therefore, never leave children unattended in the vehicle, as they could otherwise accidentally start the engine.

When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. A child's unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

i The Start/Stop button can be used to

start the vehicle without inserting the SmartKey into the ignition lock. The Start/ Stop button must be inserted into the ignition lock and the SmartKey must be in the vehicle.

X Depress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

X To start a gasoline engine: press the Start/Stop button (Y page 139) once. The engine starts.

X To start a diesel engine: press the Start/

Stop button (Y page 139) once. Preglow is activated and the engine starts.

Pulling away

Automatic transmission

G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is

Driving 141

higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.

i It is only possible to shift the transmission

from position P to the desired position if you depress the brake pedal. Only then is the parking lock released. If you do not depress the brake pedal, you can move the DIRECT SELECT lever but the parking lock remains engaged.

X Depress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

X Shift the transmission to position D or R

(Y page 144).

X Release the brake pedal.

X Carefully depress the accelerator pedal.

The electric parking brake (Y page 156) is automatically released. The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

i The vehicle locks centrally once you have pulled away. The locking knobs in the doors drop down.

You can open the doors from the inside at any time.

You can also deactivate the automatic locking feature (Y page 235).

i Upshifts take place at higher engine

speeds after a cold start. This helps the catalytic converter to reach its operating temperature more quickly.

Pulling away with a trailer

To ensure that you do not roll backwards when pulling away on an uphill slope, engage the electric parking brake.

X Take your foot off the brake pedal. i Once you have taken your foot off the

brake pedal, the vehicle is held for around one second.

X Pull away.

Hill start assist will not function if:

Ryou are pulling away on a level road or a

downhill gradient.

Rthe transmission is in position N.

Rthe electric parking brake is applied.

RESP® is malfunctioning.

142 Driving

X Press and hold handle :.

The electric parking brake continues to brake and prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards. The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster remains lit.

X Depress the accelerator pedal.

X As soon as the vehicle/trailer combination

is held by the driving force of the engine, release lever :. The electric parking brake is released. The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

Hill start assist

Hill start assist helps you when pulling away forwards or in reverse on an uphill gradient. It holds the vehicle for a short time after you have removed your foot from the brake pedal. This gives you enough time to move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal and depress it before the vehicle begins to roll.

G WARNING Never leave the vehicle when it is held by hill start assist. After approximately one second, hill start assist will no longer brake your vehicle and it could roll away.

Driving 143

Problems with the engine

Problem

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

The engine does not start. The starter motor can be heard.

RThere is a malfunction in the engine electronics.

RThere is a malfunction in the fuel supply.

X Try to start the engine again (Y page 140). Avoid excessively

long and frequent attempts to start the engine as these will drain the battery.

If the engine does not start after several attempts:

X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

The engine does not start. You cannot hear the starter motor.

The on-board voltage is too low because the battery is too weak or discharged.

X Jump-start the vehicle (Y page 341).