2012 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

The speed rating of tires mounted at the factory may be higher than the maximum speed that the electronic speed limiter permits.

Make sure that your tires have the required speed rating as specified in the "Tires" section (Y page 375), e.g. if you buy new tires.

Further information about reading tire data can be obtained from any qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Load index

i Tire data is vehicle-specific and may deviate from the data in the example.

In addition to the load bearing index, load index : may be imprinted after the letters that identify speed rating B (Y page 368) on the sidewall of the tire.

RIf no specification is given: no text (as in the

example above), represents a standard load (SL) tire

RXL or Extra Load: represents a reinforced

tire

depends on the maximum load that the tire can carry at a certain pressure

DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)

U.S. tire regulations prescribe that every manufacturer of new tires or retreader has to imprint a TIN in or on the sidewall of each tire produced.

The TIN is a unique identification number. The TIN enables the tire manufacturers to inform purchasers of recalls and other safety- relevant matters. It makes it possible for the purchaser to easily identify the affected tires.

The TIN is made up of manufacturer identification code ;, tire size =, tire type code ? and manufacturing date A.

i Tire data is vehicle-specific and may deviate from the data in the example.

DOT (Department of Transportation): tire symbol : indicates that the tire complies with the requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Manufacturer identification code: manufacturer identification code ; provides details on the tire manufacturer. New tires have a code with two symbols. Retreaded tires have a code with four symbols.

Further information about retreaded tires (Y page 350). Tire size: identifier = describes the tire size.

Definition of terms for tires and loading 371

Tire type code: tire type code ? can be used by the manufacturer as a code to describe specific characteristics of the tire.

Date of manufacture: date of manufacture A provides information about the age of a tire. The first and second positions represent the week of manufacture, starting with "01" for the first calendar week. Positions three and four represent the year of manufacture. For example, a tire that is marked with "3208", was manufactured in week 32 in 2008.

Bar

Metric unit for tire pressure. There are 14.5038 pounds per square inch (psi) to 1 bar; there are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to 1 bar.

DOT (Department of Transportation)

DOT marked tires fulfill the requirements of the United States Department of Transportation.

Tire characteristics

Normal occupant weight

i Tire data is vehicle-specific and may deviate from the data in the example.

This information describes the tire cord and the number of layers in sidewall : and under the tread ;.

Definition of terms for tires and

loading

Tire ply composition and material

used

Describes the number of plies or the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and sidewall. These are made of steel, nylon, polyester and other materials.

The number of occupants the vehicle is designed to seat, multiplied by 68 kilograms (150 lbs).

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Standards

A uniform standard to grade the quality of tires with regards to tread quality, tire traction and temperature characteristics. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using U.S. government testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the sidewall of the tire.

Recommended tire pressure

The recommended tire pressure applies to the tires mounted at the factory.

The Tire and Loading Information placard contains the recommended tire pressures for cold tires on a fully loaded vehicle and for the maximum permissible vehicle speed.

The tire pressure table contains the recommended tire pressures for cold tires under various operating conditions, i.e. differing load and speed conditions.

372 Definition of terms for tires and loading

Increased vehicle weight due to

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)

optional equipment

This is the combined weight of all standard and optional equipment available for the vehicle, regardless of whether it is actually installed on the vehicle or not.

Rim

This is the part of the wheel on which the tire is mounted.

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)

The GAWR is the maximum permissible axle weight. The actual load on an axle must never exceed the gross axle weight rating. The gross axle weight rating can be found on the vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar on the driver's side.

Speed rating

The speed rating is part of the tire identification. It specifies the speed range for which the tire is approved.

GTW (Gross Trailer Weight)

The GTW is the weight of a trailer including the weight of the load, luggage, accessories etc. on the trailer.

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight)

The gross vehicle weight comprises the weight of the vehicle including fuel, tools, the spare wheel, accessories installed, occupants, luggage and the drawbar noseweight, if applicable. The gross vehicle weight must not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating GVWR as specified on the vehicle identification plate on the B pillar on the driver's side.

The GVWR is the maximum permissible gross weight of a fully loaded vehicle (the weight of the vehicle including all accessories, occupants, fuel, luggage and the drawbar noseweight, if applicable). The gross vehicle weight rating is specified on the vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar on the driver's side.

Maximum loaded vehicle weight

The maximum weight is the sum of the curb weight of the vehicle, the weight of the accessories, the total load limit and the weight of the optional equipment installed at the factory.

Kilopascal (kPa)

Metric unit for tire pressure. 6.9 kPa is the equivalent of 1 psi. Another unit for tire pressure is bar. There are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to 1 bar.

Load index

In addition to the load bearing index, the load index may also be imprinted on the sidewall of the tire. This specifies the load bearing capacity more precisely.

Curb weight

The weight of a vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil and coolant. It also includes the air- conditioning system and optional equipment if these are installed in the vehicle, but does not include passengers or luggage.

Definition of terms for tires and loading 373

Maximum load rating

Tread

The maximum load rating in kilograms or pounds is the maximum weight for which a tire is approved.

The part of the tire that comes into contact with the road.

Maximum permissible tire pressure

Maximum permissible tire pressure for one tire.

Bead

The tire bead ensures that the tire sits securely on the wheel. There are several steel wires in the bead to prevent the tire from coming loose from the wheel rim.

Maximum load on one tire

Maximum load on one tire. This is calculated by dividing the maximum axle load of one axle by two.

Sidewall

The part of the tire between the tread and the bead.

PSI (pounds per square inch)

Weight of optional extras

A standard unit of measure for tire pressure.

Aspect ratio

Relationship between tire height and tire width in percent.

Tire pressure

This is pressure inside the tire applying an outward force to each square inch of the tire's surface. The tire pressure is specified in pounds per square inch (psi), in kilopascal (kPa) or in bar. The tire pressure should only be corrected when the tires are cold.

The combined weight of those optional extras that weigh more than the replaced standard part and more than 2.3 kilograms (5 lbs). These optional extras, such as high- performance brakes, level control, a roof rack or a high-performance battery, are not included in the curb weight and accessory weight.

TIN (Tire Identification Number)

This is a unique identifier which can be used by a tire manufacturer to identify tires, for example for a product recall, and thus identify the purchasers. The TIN is made up of the manufacturer's identity code, tire size, tire type code and the manufacturing date.

Tire pressure of cold tires

The tires are cold:

Load bearing index

Rif the vehicle has been parked without

direct sunlight on the tires for at least three hours and

Rif the vehicle has not been driven more than

1 mile (1.6 km).

The load bearing index (also load index) is a code that contains the maximum load bearing capacity of a tire.

374 Changing a wheel

Traction

Traction is the result of friction between the tires and the road surface.

TWR (Tongue Weight Rating)

The TWR specifies the maximum permissible weight that the ball coupling of the trailer tow hitch can support.

Treadwear indicators

Narrow bars (tread wear bars) that are distributed over the tire tread. If the tire tread is level with the bars, the wear limit of 1/16 in (1.6 mm) has been reached.

Occupant distribution

The distribution of occupants in a vehicle at their designated seating positions.

Total load limit

Rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kilograms (150 lbs) times the vehicle's designated seating capacity.

Changing a wheel

Flat tire

The "Breakdown assistance" section (Y page 329) contains information and notes on how to deal with a flat tire. It also provides instructions on changing a wheel or mounting the spare wheel/emergency spare wheel.

Interchanging the wheels

G WARNING Rotate front and rear wheels only if the tires are of the same dimension.

If your vehicle is equipped with mixed-size tires (different tire dimensions front vs. rear), tire rotation is not possible.

G WARNING Have the tightening torque checked after changing a wheel. The wheels could come loose if they are not tightened to a torque of 110 lb-ft (150 Nm).

Only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for your vehicle's rims.

The wear patterns on the front and rear tires differ, depending on the operating conditions. Rotate the wheels before a clear wear pattern has formed on the tires. Front tires typically wear more on the shoulders and the rear tires in the center.

If your vehicle's tire configuration allows, you can rotate the wheels according to the intervals in the tire manufacturer's warranty book in your vehicle documents. If this is not available, the tires should then be replaced every 3000 to 6000 miles (5000 to 10,000 km), or earlier if the tire wear requires this. Do not change the direction of wheel rotation.

Clean the contact surfaces of the wheel and the brake disc thoroughly every time a wheel is interchanged. Check the tire pressures.

Information on changing a wheel and mounting the spare wheel (Y page 333).

! On vehicles equipped with a tire pressure

monitor, electronic components are located in the wheel.

Tire-mounting tools should not be used near the valve. This could damage the electronic components.

Always have the tires changed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Direction of rotation

Tires with a specified direction of rotation have additional benefits, e.g. if there is a risk of hydroplaning. You will only gain these benefits if the correct direction of rotation is maintained.

An arrow on the sidewall of the tire indicates its correct direction of rotation.

You may mount a spare wheel/emergency spare wheel against the direction of rotation. Observe the time restriction on use as well as the speed limit specified on the spare wheel/ emergency spare wheel.

Storing wheels

Store wheels that are not being used in a cool, dry and preferably dark place. Protect the tires from oil, grease, gasoline and diesel.

Cleaning the wheels

G WARNING Do not use power washers with circular-jet nozzles (dirt grinders) to clean your vehicle, in particular the tires. You could otherwise damage the tires and cause an accident.

Wheel and tire combinations

Please bear the following in mind

! For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz

recommends that you only use Tires and wheels which have been approved by Mercedes-Benz specifically for your vehicle.

Wheel and tire combinations

375

These tires have been specially adapted for use with the control systems, such as ABS or ESP®, and are marked as follows:

RMO = Mercedes-Benz Original

RMOE = Mercedes-Benz Original Extended

(tires featuring run-flat characteristics)

RMO1 = Mercedes-Benz Original (only

certain AMG tires)

Mercedes-Benz Original Extended tires may only be used on wheels that have been specifically approved by Mercedes-Benz.

Only use tires, wheels or accessories tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz. Certain characteristics, e.g. handling, vehicle noise emissions or fuel consumption, may otherwise be adversely affected. In addition, when driving with a load, tire dimension variations could cause the tires to come into contact with the bodywork and axle components. This could result in damage to the tires or the vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz accepts no liability for damage resulting from the use of tires, wheels or accessories other than those tested and approved.

Further information about tires, wheels and approved combinations can be obtained from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

i The Tire and Load Information placard with the recommended tire pressures is attached to the B-pillar on the driver's side. Further information about driving at high speeds or driving with vehicle loads that are lighter than the maximum vehicle load can be found in the tire pressure table on the inside of the fuel filler flap. Check tire pressures regularly, and only when the tires are cold. Comply with the maintenance recommendations of the tire manufacturer in the vehicle document wallet.

For further information on the recommended tire inflation pressure and on tire pressures for specific driving conditions (Y page 353).

376 Wheel and tire combinations

i Notes on the vehicle equipment – always

equip the vehicle:

Rwith tires of the same size on a given axle

(left/right)

Rwith the same type of tires at a given time (summer tires, winter tires, MOExtended tires)

i On the following pages, you can find

information on approved wheel rims and tire sizes for equipping your vehicle with winter tires. Winter tires are not available ex factory as standard equipment or optional extras.

If you want to equip your vehicle with approved winter tires, it may be necessary to obtain wheel rims in the corresponding size, as the size of the approved winter tires may differ from the standard tires. This is dependent on the model and the equipment installed at the factory.

The tires and wheel rims, as well as further information, can be obtained at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

i Overview of abbreviations used in the

following tire tables:

RBA: both axles

RFA: front axle

RRA: rear axle

In the following table, the wheel/tire combinations are allocated to the vehicle models through variants, e.g. V1, V2 etc.:

V1

V2

ML 350 4MATIC ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC

Wheel and tire combinations

377

Tires

All-weather tires

Alloy wheels

V1 V2

BA

255/55 R18 105 H M+S

8.0 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 2.21 in (56 mm)

BA

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+S

8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 2.21 in (56 mm)

BA

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+S30

8.5 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 2.32 in (59 mm)

BA

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+S30

8.5 J x 19 H2

BA

BA

BA

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+S MOExtended31

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+S MOExtended30, 31

Offset: 2.44 in (62 mm)

8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 2.21 in (56 mm)

8.5 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 2.32 in (59 mm)

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+S MOExtended30, 31

8.5 J x 19 H2

Offset: 2.44 in (62 mm)

BA

265/45 R20 108 H XL M+S30

9.0 J x 20 H2

BA

265/45 R20 108 H XL M+S MOExtended30, 31

Wheel offset: 2.24 in (57 mm)

9.0 J x 20 H2

Wheel offset: 2.24 in (57 mm)

BA

265/40 R21 105 Y XL30

9.0 J x 21 H2

Wheel offset: 2.09 in (53 mm)

Winter tires32

Alloy wheels

V1 V2

BA

255/55 R18 105 H M+Si 8.0 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 2.21 in (56 mm)

BA

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+Si 8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 2.21 in (56 mm)

BA

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+Si30

8.5 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 2.32 in (59 mm)

30 Use of snow chains not permitted. Observe the notes in the "Snow chains" section. 31 MOExtended tires (tires featuring run-flat characteristics) only in combination with an activated tire pressure

loss warning system or tire pressure monitor.

32 Not available from the factory.

378 Wheel and tire combinations

Winter tires32

Alloy wheels

V1 V2

BA

BA

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+Si MOExtended31

255/50 R19 107 H XL M+SiMOExtended30, 31

8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 2.21 in (56 mm)

8.5 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 2.32 in (59 mm)

"Minispare" emergency spare wheel30

Tires

T 155/90 R18 113 M

Wheels

4 B x 18 H2

V1 V2

Tire pressure: 420 kPa (4.2 bar/61 psi)

Wheel offset: 1.58 in (40 mm)

i The specified tire pressure is printed in yellow on the emergency spare wheel.

32 Not available from the factory. 31 MOExtended tires (tires featuring run-flat characteristics) only in combination with an activated tire pressure

loss warning system or tire pressure monitor.

30 Use of snow chains not permitted. Observe the notes in the "Snow chains" section.

Useful information ............................ 380

Notes on technical data ................... 380

Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts ......... 380

Warranty ............................................ 381

Identification plates ......................... 381

Service products and capacities ..... 382

Vehicle data ...................................... 390

Trailer tow hitch ................................ 391

379

380 Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts

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).

G WARNING Driving safety may be impaired if non- approved parts, tires and wheels or safety- relevant accessories are used.

This could lead to malfunctions in safety- relevant systems, e.g. the brake system. This could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and cause an accident.

For this reason, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use genuine Mercedes-Benz parts or parts of equal quality. Only use tires, wheels and accessories that have been specifically approved for your vehicle.

Notes on technical data

i The data stated here specifically refers to a vehicle with standard equipment. Consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for the data for all vehicle variants and trim levels.

Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts

All Mercedes-Benz Centers maintain a supply of genuine Mercedes-Benz parts for necessary service and repair work. In addition, strategically located parts delivery centers provide for quick and reliable parts service.

There are more than 300,000 different genuine Mercedes-Benz parts available for Mercedes-Benz models.

Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts are subject to strict quality control. Each part has been specially developed, manufactured or selected for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and fine-tuned for them.

Therefore, only genuine Mercedes-Benz parts should be used.

! Air bags and Emergency Tensioning Devices, as well as control units and sensors for these restraint systems may be installed in the following areas of your vehicle:

Rdoors

Rdoor pillars

Rdoor sills

Rseats

Rdashboard

Rinstrument cluster

Rcenter console

Do not install accessories such as audio systems in these areas. Do not carry out repairs or welding. You could impair the operating efficiency of the restraint systems.

Have aftermarket accessories installed at a qualified specialist workshop. Mercedes- Benz recommends that you use an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for this purpose.

H Environmental note Daimler AG also supplies reconditioned major assemblies and parts which are of the same quality as new parts. They are covered by the same Limited Warranty entitlements as new parts.

Always specify the vehicle identification number (VIN) (Y page 381) and the engine

number (Ypage 382) when ordering genuine Mercedes-Benz parts.

Identification plates

Identification plates

381

Warranty

The Service and Warranty Information booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering your vehicle.

Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will exchange or repair any defective parts originally installed in the vehicle in accordance with the terms of the following warranties:

RNew Vehicle Limited Warranty

REmission System Warranty

REmission Performance Warranty

RCalifornia, Connecticut, Maine,

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

RState Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon

Laws)

Replacement parts and accessories are covered by the Mercedes-Benz Parts and Accessories warranties. You can obtain information about this from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

i Should you lose your Service and

Warranty Information booklet, have an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center arrange for a replacement. It will be mailed to you.

Vehicle identification plate with

vehicle identification number (VIN)

and paint code number

X Open the driver's door.

You will see vehicle identification plate :.

Example: vehicle identification plate (USA only) ; Paint code

= VIN

Example: vehicle identification plate (Canada only) ; Paint code

= VIN

382 Service products and capacities

i The data shown on the identification plate

Engine number

is example data. This data is different for every vehicle and can deviate from the data shown here. You can find the data applicable to your vehicle on the vehicle's identification plate.

Vehicle identification number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) can be found in the following locations:

Ron the vehicle identification plate

(Y page 381)

Rat the lower edge of the windshield

(Y page 382)

In addition to being stamped on the vehicle identification plate, the vehicle identification number (VIN) is also stamped onto the vehicle body. It is located in the lower part of the right-hand A-pillar.

X Open the front right-hand door. X Open cover : in the direction of the arrow

and remove it. You will see the vehicle identification number (VIN).

: Emission control information plate,

including the certification of both federal and Californian emissions standards

; Engine number (stamped into the

crankcase)

= VIN (on the lower edge of the windshield)

Service products and capacities

Important safety notes

Service products include the following:

Rfuels (e.g. gasoline, diesel)

Radditives for exhaust gas aftertreatment

(DEF)

Rlubricants (e.g. engine oil, transmission oil)

Rcoolant

Rbrake fluid

Rwindshield washer fluid

Vehicle components and their respective lubricants must match. You should therefore only use products that have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz.

Information on tested and approved products can be obtained at a Mercedes-Benz Center or on the Internet at http:// www.mbusa.com (USA only).

G WARNING Comply with all valid regulations with respect to handling, storing and disposing of service fluids. Otherwise, you could endanger persons or the environment.

Service products and capacities

383

Keep service fluids out of the reach of children.

For health reasons, you should prevent service fluids from coming into direct contact with your skin or clothing.

If a service fluid is swallowed, contact a physician immediately.

384 Service products and capacities

Capacities

Missing values were not available at time of going to print.

Model

Capacity

Engine oil and

filter

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC

ML 350 4MATIC

8.5 US qt (8.0 l)

7.4 US qt (7.0 l)

Cooling system All models

Tank capacity

All models

Reserve

All models

DEF tank

ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC

7.3 US gal (27.5 l)

Windshield/

All models

headlamp

cleaning

system

Fuel, coolant,

lubricants, etc.

Approved engine oils

MB 325.0 or MB 326.0
anticorrosion/ antifreeze

Gasoline engines: premium-grade unleaded gasoline (at least 91 octane, average value between 96 RON/ 86 MON)

Diesel engines: ULTRA-LOW SULFUR HIGHWAY DIESEL FUEL (ULSD, maximum sulfur content 15 ppm)

DEF in accordance with ISO 22241

MB windshield washer concentrate33
(Y page 390)

Mixing ratio for washer fluid (Y page 390)

33 Mixed with water or premixed washer fluid with antifreeze protection.

Service products and capacities

385

Fuel

Flexible fuel vehicles

Important safety notes

Important safety notes

G WARNING Gasoline and diesel fuels are highly flammable and poisonous. They burn violently and can cause serious injury.

Never allow sparks, flames or smoking materials near gasoline or diesel fuel!

Turn off the engine before refueling.

Whenever you are around gasoline or diesel fuel, avoid inhaling fumes and any skin or clothing contact. Extinguish all smoking materials.

Direct skin contact with fuels and the inhalation of fuel vapors are damaging your health.

Premium-grade unleaded gasoline

! To ensure the longevity and full

performance of the engine, only premium- grade unleaded gasoline may be used.

If there is no premium-grade unleaded gasoline available and regular-grade unleaded gasoline may be used; please observe the following precautions:

Ronly fill the fuel tank to half full with

regular-grade unleaded gasoline and fill the rest with premium-grade unleaded gasoline as soon as possible.

Rdo not drive at the maximum speed.

Ravoid sudden acceleration.

Rif the vehicle is carrying a light load, e.g. two passengers without luggage, do not allow the engine to rev above 3,000 rpm.

Rif the vehicle is fully loaded or is being

operated in mountainous terrain, do not depress the accelerator pedal further than Ô of the pedal travel.

Flexible fuel vehicles can be recognized by the sticker on the inside of the filler flap.

Flexible fuel vehicles can be operated with premium-grade unleaded gasoline and ethanol (E85) or a mixture of both. Ethanol fuel (E85) is a mixture of approximately 85% ethanol and 15% unleaded gasoline.

G WARNING Ethanol fuel (E85) and its vapors are highly flammable, poisonous and highly combustible. Ethanol fuel causes serious injury if it ignites, if it comes into contact with your skin or if you inhale the vapors. Avoid inhaling ethanol vapors and ethanol coming into contact with your skin. Before refueling, extinguish all naked flames. Never allow sparks or smoking materials near ethanol.

Changing the fuel type

For best performance and drivability, it is recommended that you use either one or the other fuel. Avoid alternating regularly between the two different types of fuel.

When changing between the fuel types, ensure that the following conditions are met:

Rthe fuel level is below half full.

Rthe fuel level is above the reserve level. This

is identifiable by the fuel tank reserve warning lamp not being lit.

Ryou add more than 5 gallons (20 liters) of

fuel.

Ryou switch off the engine before refueling.

Rthe engine is started and runs for at least five minutes immediately after refueling.

These precautions should prevent the possibility of engine difficulties arising from changing to a different fuel type.

If the engine still doesn't run correctly, refuel with at least 3 US gal (12 l) of premium-grade unleaded gasoline. This may improve the running of the engine.

386 Service products and capacities

Fuel consumption

Ethanol (E85) contains less energy per gallon than gasoline. To ensure that the engine performance with ethanol (E85) is similar to that when using gasoline, the engine must burn more ethanol. As a result, it is to be expected that fuel consumption will increase when using ethanol fuel (E85), compared to gasoline.

Maintenance

Inform your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center that you are operating or have operated the vehicle with ethanol (E85).

Low outside temperatures

Starting times may significantly increase at temperatures below 32 ‡ (0 † ). At low outside temperatures, Mercedes-Benz recommends the use of an auxiliary heater. For further information, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Rough idling may also be experienced at low outside temperatures until the engine is fully warmed up.

Ethanol (E85) is unsuitable for use if outside temperatures fall below 14 ‡ (-10 † ).

High outside temperatures

At outside temperatures above 95 ‡ (35 † ), the time required for the starting procedure may increase and be accompanied by rough idling following the start.

Fuel requirements

Gasoline engines

Use only premium-grade unleaded gasoline. The octane number should be at least 91. Details can be found on the gas pump. The octane number is the average value of the Research Octane Number (RON) and the Motor Octane Number (MON): (RON + MON) / 2, also known as knock resistance.

Reformulated gasoline (RFG) and/or unleaded gasoline with additives can be used. However, the concentration of additives in the fuel must be less than 10%, e.g.

REthanol

RTAME

RETBE

RIPA

RTBA

For MTBE, the concentration should not exceed 15%.

The concentration of methanol in gasoline including other additives must not exceed 3%.

Using mixtures of methanol and ethanol is not permitted. Gasohol, a mixture of 10% ethanol and 90% unleaded gasoline, can be used.

All of these mix fuels must fulfill the fuel requirements, e.g.:

Rknock resistance

Rboiling point

Rvapor pressure

Diesel engines – important safety notes ! Only use commercially available ULTRA- LOW SULFUR DIESEL FUEL (ULSD, 15 ppm MAXIMUM SULFUR) that meets the ASTM D975 standard. Failure to use ULTRA-LOW SULFUR DIESEL FUEL (ULSD) can severely damage the vehicle's exhaust gas aftertreatment system.

! Do not fill the tank with gasoline. Do not blend diesel fuel with gasoline or kerosene. Otherwise, the fuel system and the engine could be damaged.

To prevent malfunctions, diesel fuel with improved flow characteristics is available in the winter months. Check with your gas station.

Information on the fuel grade can usually be found on the gas pump. If the information cannot be found on the gas pump, ask the gas station personnel. For further information, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center

or go to the Internet site http://www.mbusa.com (USA only).

Diesel engines – fuels containing bio-

diesel (FAME [fatty acid methyl ester])

Mercedes-Benz USA approves the use of B5
for all diesel engines with common rail direct injection (CDI) and BlueTEC. The concentration of bio-diesel in ULSD may be a maximum of up to 5% by volume.

Pure bio-diesel and diesel fuels that have a higher concentration of bio-diesel, e.g. B20, can damage the fuel system and the engine. They are therefore not approved.

For further information, please ask the gas station personnel. The label on the gas pump must indicate clearly that the B5 bio-diesel blend fulfills the ULSD standard. If the label is not clear, do not refuel the vehicle.

Do not refuel your vehicle with fuels unless they have been approved by Mercedes-Benz.

Additives in gasoline

One of the main problems of poor fuel quality is the forming of deposits that are created during the gasoline combustion process. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use fuel brands that have the additives.

Deposits may form if you use fuels without additives over a longer period of time. These deposits are most likely to form on the inlet valves and in the combustion chamber.

This could lead to engine problems, e.g.:

Rlonger engine warm-up phase

Runeven idle

Rengine noise

Rmisfiring

Rloss of power

Carbon deposits may form if the availability of gasoline with relevant additives is insufficient (in certain regions). In this case, Mercedes-Benz recommends the use of additives that have been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Service products and capacities

387

Consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or go to the Internet site http://www.mbusa.com (USA only) for a list of approved products. Comply with the instructions for use on the product label.

Do not mix other fuel additives with fuel. This causes unnecessary costs and could damage the engine.

! Do not refuel with low-grade fuel and do not use fuel additives that are not tested and approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Damage to or malfunctions of the fuel system may otherwise occur.

DEF

Important safety notes

i For BlueTEC vehicles only.

DEF is a non-flammable, non-toxic, colorless, odorless and water-soluble fluid.

! Rinse surfaces that have come into

contact with DEF immediately with water or remove DEF using a damp cloth and cold water. If the DEF has already crystallized, use a sponge and cold water to clean it. DEF residues crystallize after time and contaminate the affected surfaces.

High outside temperatures

If DEF heats up to over 122 ‡ (50 † ) for extended periods, e.g. as a result of direct sunlight on the DEF reservoir, DEF can decompose. Ammonia vapors develop as a result.

G WARNING When opening the filler cap of the DEF tank ammonia gas vapors may escape. Refill DEF in a well ventilated area only. Ammonia gas vapors have a pungent odor and are particularly irritating for your skin, mucous membranes, and eyes. Inhaling ammonia gas vapors will cause burning eyes, nose, and throat, as well as coughing and watering eyes.

388 Service products and capacities

Low outside temperatures

DEF freezes at a temperature of approximately 12 ‡ (–11 †). The vehicle is equipped with a DEF preheating system when it leaves the factory. Winter operation is therefore also guaranteed at temperatures below 12 ‡ (–11 †).

Additives

! Only use DEF in accordance with ISO

22241. Do not use additives with DEF and do not dilute DEF with water. This may destroy the BlueTEC exhaust gas aftertreatment system.

Purity

Assuring the purity of DEF is particularly important with respect to avoiding malfunctions in the exhaust gas aftertreatment system.

If DEF is pumped out of the DEF tank, e.g. during repair work, it must not be returned to the tank. The purity of the fluid can no longer be guaranteed.

! Impurities in DEF (e.g. due to other

service products, cleaning agents or dust) lead to:

Rincreased emission values

For a list of approved engine oils and oil filters, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or go to the Internet site http://www.mbusa.com (USA only).

! Never use engine oil or an oil filter of a specification other than is necessary to fulfill the prescribed service intervals. Do not change the engine oil or oil filter in order to achieve longer replacement intervals than those prescribed. You could otherwise cause engine damage or damage to the exhaust gas aftertreatment.

Follow the instructions in the service interval display regarding the oil change. Otherwise, you may damage the engine and the exhaust gas aftertreatment.

The table shows which engine oils have been approved for your vehicle.

Model

Engine

MB

model

Approval

ML 350 BlueTEC

642

4MATIC

228.51, 229.31, 229.51

ML 350 4MATIC

276

229.5

i MB approval is indicated on the oil

containers.

Rdamage to the catalytic converter

Additives

Rengine damage

Rmalfunctions in the BlueTEC exhaust gas

aftertreatment system

Do not use any additives in the engine oil.

This could damage the engine.

Engine oil

Please bear the following in mind

The engine oils are matched to the performance of Mercedes-Benz engines and service intervals. You should therefore only use engine oils and oil filters that are approved for vehicles with maintenance systems.

Engine oil viscosity

Viscosity describes the flow characteristics of a fluid. If an engine oil has a high viscosity, this means that it is thick; a low viscosity means that it is thin.

Select an engine oil with an SAE (viscosity) classification suitable for the prevailing outside temperatures. The following table shows the correct SAE classification to be used. The low-temperature characteristics of engine oils can deteriorate significantly, e.g.

as a result of aging, soot and fuel deposits. It is therefore strongly recommended that you carry out regular oil changes using an approved engine oil with the appropriate SAE classification.

Refrigerant of the air-conditioning

system

The air-conditioning system is filled with R134a refrigerant and a special PAG lubricant.

! Never use refrigerant R 12 (CFC) or

mineral lubricants. Otherwise, you could damage the air-conditioning system.

Brake fluid

G WARNING Over aperiod of time, the brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air; this lowers its boiling point.

If the boiling point of the brake fluid is too low, vapor pockets may form in the brake system when the brakes are applied hard (e.g. when driving downhill). This would impair braking efficiency.

You should have the brake fluid renewed at regular intervals. The brake fluid change intervals can be found in the Service Booklet.

Only use brake fluid approved by Mercedes- Benz. Information about approved brake fluids can be obtained from any authorized

Service products and capacities

389

Mercedes-Benz Center or on the Internet at http://bevo.mercedes-benz.com.

Coolant

Important safety notes

The coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze/corrosion inhibitor. It performs the following tasks:

Rcorrosion protection

Rantifreeze protection

Rraising the boiling point

The engine cooling system is filled at the factory with coolant that contains an antifreeze/corrosion inhibitor that ensures protection down to approximately -35 ‡ (-37 †).

! Only add coolant that has been premixed

with the desired antifreeze protection. Otherwise, the engine could be damaged.

Further information on coolants and on filling can be found in the Mercedes-Benz Specifications for Service Products, MB Approval 310.1, e.g. on the Internet at http://bevo.mercedes-benz.com. You can also consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

! Always use a suitable coolant mixture,

even in countries where high temperatures prevail.

Otherwise, the engine cooling system is not sufficiently protected from corrosion and overheating.

If the coolant has antifreeze protection down to -35 ‡ (-37 †), the boiling point of the coolant under operating conditions is approximately 266 ‡ (130 †).

Your vehicle has a range of aluminum components. Aluminum components in the engine make it necessary to use antifreeze/ corrosion inhibitor coolant that has been specifically formulated to protect the aluminum parts. Using other antifreeze/

390 Vehicle data

corrosion inhibitors without these characteristics affects the service life.

The coolant must be used throughout the year in order to maintain the necessary corrosion protection and to provide protection from overheating. In the Service Booklet, you can find information on the intervals for renewal.

The renewal interval is determined by the coolant type and the engine cooling system design. The renewal interval in the Service Booklet is only valid if the coolant is renewed or filled up with Mercedes-Benz approved products. Therefore, only use MB 325.0 or 326.0 anticorrosion/antifreeze or another Mercedes-Benz approved product of the same specification.

Information on other products with the same specifications that are approved by Mercedes-Benz can be obtained at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or on the Internet at http://bevo.mercedes-benz.com.

The coolant is checked at every maintenance interval at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

The antifreeze/corrosion inhibitor concentration in the engine cooling system should:

Rbe at least 50%. This will protect the engine

cooling system against freezing down to approximately -35 ‡ (-37 † ).

Rnot exceed 55% (antifreeze protection to -49 ‡ [-45 † ]); otherwise, heat will not dissipate as effectively.

If the coolant level is too low, MB 325.0 or 326.0 anticorrosion/antifreeze should be added. Have the engine cooling system checked for possible leaks.

Windshield/headlamp cleaning

system

G WARNING Washer solvent/antifreeze is highly flammable. Do not spill washer solvent/ antifreeze on hot engine parts, because it may

ignite and burn. You could be seriously burned.

Use MB SummerFit windshield washer concentrate at temperatures above freezing:

X Mix 1 part MB SummerFit with 100 parts

water.

Use MB WinterFit windshield washer concentrate at temperatures below freezing:

X At temperatures down to 14 ‡ (Ò 10 †):

mix 1 part MB WinterFit with 2 parts water.

X At temperatures down to Ò 4 ‡ (Ò 20 †):

mix 1 part MB WinterFit with 1 part water.

X At temperatures down to Ò 20.2 ‡

(Ò 29 †): mix 2 parts MB WinterFit with 1
part water.

! Only SummerFit and WinterFit can be

mixed. Otherwise, the jets could become blocked.

Vehicle data

Please note that for the specified vehicle data:

Rthe heights specified may vary as a result

of:

tires

load

- condition of the suspension

- optional equipment

All models

Vehicle length

189.1 in (4804 mm)

Vehicle width

84.3 in (2141 mm)

including exterior

mirrors

Vehicle height

70.7 in (1796 mm)

Wheelbase

114.8 in (2915 mm)

Front track

64.7 in (1642 mm)

Rear track

65.2 in (1657 mm)

All models

Ground clearance

8.0 in (202 mm)

Turning circle

38.7 ft (11.80 m)

Maximum roof

Maximum 220 lb

load

(100 kg)

Trailer tow hitch

Mounting dimensions

G WARNING Only have a trailer tow hitch retrofitted at a qualified specialist workshop which has the necessary specialist knowledge and tools to carry out the work required. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for this purpose. In particular, work relevant to safety or on safety-related systems must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop.

! If you have a trailer tow hitch retrofitted,

changes to the cooling system and drive train may be necessary, depending on the vehicle type.

If you have a trailer tow hitch retrofitted, observe the anchorage points on the chassis frame.

Trailer tow hitch 391

Anchorage points for the trailer tow hitch (example) : Anchorage points

; Rear axle center line

Trailer loads

Missing values were not available at time of going to print.

All models

Permissible trailer load,

unbraked

Permissible trailer load,

braked34

Maximum drawbar

noseweight35

Permissible rear axle

load when towing a trailer

34 At a minimum gradient-climbing capability of 12% from astandstill. 35 The drawbar noseweight is not included in the trailer load.

392

Publication details Internet

Further information about Mercedes-Benz vehicles and about Daimler AG can be found on the following websites: http://www.mbusa.com (USA only) http://www.mercedes-benz.ca (Canada only)

Editorial office

Not to be reprinted, translated or otherwise reproduced, in whole or in part, without the written permission of Daimler AG.

As at 08.03.2011

É1665841581ÀËÍ 1665841581

Order no. 6515 4381 13 Part no. 166 584 15 81 Edition C 2012