Mercedes Benz Automobile 600 SEL User Manual

Mercedes-Benz  
Operator's Manual  
600 SEL  
1
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Operator's manual  
This Operator's Manual contains a great deal of useful information. We urge you to read it carefully and familiarize yourself with the  
vehicle before driving.  
For your own safety and longer service life of the vehicle, we urge you to follow the instructions and warnings contained in this  
manual. Ignoring them could result in damage to the vehicle or personal injury to you or others. Vehicle damage caused by failure to  
follow instructions is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.  
Your vehicle may have some or all of the equipment described in this manual. Therefore, you may find explanations for optional  
equipment not installed in your vehicle. If you have any questions about the operation of any equipment, your authorized Mercedes-  
Benz Center will be glad to demonstrate the proper procedures.  
Owner’s Service and Warranty Policy  
The Owner’s Service and Warranty Information Booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering your  
Mercedes-Benz, including:  
• New Car Limited Warranty,  
• Emission System Warranty,  
• Emission Performance Warranty,  
State Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon Laws).  
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Important notice for California retail buyers of Mercedes-Benz automobiles  
Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, if Mercedes-Benz USA,LLC  
or its authorized Mercedes-Benz Center fails to conform the vehicle to its express warranties after a reasonable number of repair attempts  
during the period of one year or 12 000 miles from original delivery of the vehicle. A reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed for  
a retail buyer (1) if the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of substantial nonconformities for a cumulative total of more than 30  
calendar days or (2) the same substantial non-conformity has been subject to repair four or more times and you have at least once  
directly notified us in writing of the need to repair the non-conformity and have given us an opportunity to perform the repair  
ourselves. Notifications should be sent to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Regional Office listed in the Service and Warranty  
Information Booklet.  
Maintenance  
The Service Booklet describes all the necessary maintenance work which should be performed at regular intervals.  
Always have the Service Booklet with you when you take the vehicle to your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for service.  
The service advisor will record each service in the booklet for you.  
Roadside assistance  
The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program provides factory trained technical help in the event of a breakdown. Calls to the  
toll-free Roadside Assistance number:  
1-800-222-0100 (inthe USA) only  
will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Client Assistance Representatives 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  
For additional information refer to the Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program brochure in your glove box.  
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Change of address or ownership  
If you change your address, be sure to send in the "Change of Address Notice" found in the Owner's Service  
and Warranty Policy Booklet. It is in your own interest that we can contact you should the need arise.  
If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all owner's literature with the vehicle to make it available to the next owner.  
If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in the "Notice of Purchase of Used Car" found in the Owner's  
Service and Warranty Policy Booklet.  
Operating your vehicle outside the USA or Canada  
If you plan to operate your vehicle in foreign countries, please be aware that service facilities or replacement  
parts may not be readily available.  
Certain Mercedes-Benz models are available for delivery in Europe under our European Delivery Program.  
For details, consult your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer or write to:  
In the USA:  
In Canada:  
Mercedes-BenzUSA,  
LLCEuropean Delivery Department  
One Mercedes Drive  
Montvale, NJ 07645  
Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc.  
European Delivery Department  
849 Eglinton Avenue East  
Toronto, Ontario M4G 2L5  
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We continuously strive to improve our product, and ask for your understanding that we reserve the right to make changes in design and  
equipment. Therefore, information, illustrations and descriptions in this Operator's Manual might differ from your vehicle.  
Optional equipment is also described in this manual, including operating instructions wherever necessary. Since they are special-order  
items, the descriptions and illustrations herein may vary slightly from the actual equipment of your vehicle.  
If there are any equipment details that are not shown or described in this Operator's Manual, your authorized Mercedes-  
Benz Center will be glad to inform you of correct care and operating procedures.  
The Operator's Manual and Service Booklet are important documents and should be kept with the vehicle.  
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Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip  
See Index  
The First 1000 Miles (1500 km)  
The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satisfied you will be with its  
performance later on. Therefore, drive your vehicle during the first 1500 km (1000 miles) at moderate vehicle and  
engine-speeds.  
During this period, avoid heavy loads (full throttle driving) and high RPM (no more than 2/3 of maximum  
permissible speed in each gear as indicated on the speedometer).  
Avoid accelerating by kickdown. It is not recommended to brake the vehicle by manually shifting to a lower gear.  
We recommend to select positions "3" or "2"only at moderate speeds (for hill driving).  
After 1000 miles (1500 km) speeds may be gradually increased to the permissible maximum  
Maintenance  
We strongly recommend that you have your vehicle serviced by your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer, in accordance with the  
Maintenance Booklet.  
Failure to have the vehicle maintained in accordance with the Maintenance Booklet may result in vehicle damage not covered by  
the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.  
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Trunk  
32 Vanity Mirrors  
61  
62  
Introduction  
Power Windows and  
Sliding/Pop-Up Roof  
Power Closing Assist for  
Doors and trunk Lid  
Interior Lighting  
33 Storage Compartments  
in the Dashboard  
34 Storage Compartments in the Door  
35 Ashtrays  
36 Lighter  
Product information  
Operator's manual  
Consumer Information  
Problems with your vehicle  
Reporting Safety Defects  
Index  
2
6
127  
63  
63  
64  
64  
128 Anti-Theft Alarm System  
129 Power Seats, Front  
132 Orthopedic Seat Backrest  
Heated Seats  
Armrest, Front  
Power Seats, Rear  
10 Armrest, Rear  
12 Adjusting Front Passenger  
39 Sliding Roof with Rear  
40  
41  
42  
43  
Pop-Up Feature  
Power Windows  
Rear Window Defroster  
Setting Clock  
65  
66  
67  
68  
68  
Instruments and Controls  
Instruments and Controls  
Instrument Cluster  
Antenna  
Indicator Lamp Symbols  
Catalytic Converter  
Starting and Turning Off the Engine  
Driving Instructions  
13  
Seat from Rear Seat  
43  
42  
44  
14 Head Restrains, Rear  
15 Power Head Restrains, Rear  
16 Adjustable Steering Wheel  
Seat Belts and Supplemental  
Restrain System (SRS)  
Driving  
45 Drinking and Driving  
70  
70  
70  
71  
74  
74  
76  
Parking Brake  
46 Driving Off  
Operation  
Seat Belts  
22 Emergency Tensioning  
Retractor (ETR)  
Airbags  
27 Steering Lock  
27 Combination Switch  
28 Exterior Lamp Switch  
29 Inside and Exterior  
Rear View Mirrors  
31 Sun Visors  
46 Automatic Transmissions  
Rear Fender Indicators  
Air Outlets  
Cruise Control  
Automatic Climate Control  
Rear Passenger Compartment:  
Climate Control  
Active Charcoal Filter  
Car Keys  
Infrared Remote Control  
Central Locking System  
Doors  
23  
49  
50  
55  
56  
58  
Charge Indicator Lamp  
Oil Pressure Gauge with Oil  
Pressure Warning Lamp  
Low Engine Oil Level  
Warning Lamp  
76  
77  
77  
Engine Oil Consumption  
31  
59  
61  
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Fuel Consumption Gauge  
Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp  
Outside Temperature Indicator  
Coolant Temperature Gauge  
Low Engine Coolant Level  
Warning Lamp  
Low Windshield and Headlamp  
Washer System Fluid Level  
Warning Lamp  
Checking Engine Oil Level  
Checking Automatic  
Transmission Fluid Level  
Trunk Lamp  
90 Emergency Operation  
of Sliding Roof  
91 Spark Plugs  
92 Layout of Poly-V-Belt drive  
92 Roof Rack  
92 Mercedes-Benz  
77  
78  
78  
78  
114  
115  
115  
116  
Spare Wheel, Lug Wrench  
79 First Aid Kit  
Vehicle Jack  
Vehicle Tools  
79 Storage Compartment below  
93  
93  
Spare Parts Service  
116  
Technical Data. Fuels,  
93 Coolants, Lubricants etc.  
Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator Lamp 80  
Vehicle Tool Box  
Seat Belt Warning Lamp  
Brake Pad Wear Indicator lamp  
Brake Warning Lamp  
Antilock Brake System (ABS)  
Acceleration Slip Control (ASR)  
Driving with Snow Chains  
Adaptive Damping System (ADS)  
Emission Control  
On Board Diagnostic System  
(California models only)  
Traveling Abroad  
Winter Driving  
Snow Chains  
80 Wheels  
94  
95  
98  
Consumer Information  
80 Changing Wheels  
81 Tire Inflation Pressure  
82 Battery  
83 Exterior Lamps  
83 Fuses  
Identification Plates  
Vehicle Data Card  
Warranty Coverage  
Technical Data  
Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants etc.  
Capacities  
Engine Oils  
Air Conditioner Refrigerant  
Brake Fluid  
Premium Unleaded Gasoline  
Fuels Requirements  
Gasoline Additives  
Coolants  
Service and Literature  
Check regularly and before a long trip 136  
118  
119  
119  
120  
122  
122  
124  
124  
124  
124  
125  
125  
126  
135  
99  
100  
103  
104  
106  
107  
110  
111  
112  
112  
84 Jump Starting  
85 Towing the Vehicle  
Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle  
85 Testing Infrared Remote Control  
86 Front Head Restrains  
86 Rear Seat Cushion  
86 Manual Closing of Trunk Lid  
Manual Retraction of  
Trunk Lid Handle  
Practical Hints  
112  
113  
114  
Replacing Wiper Blades  
88 Manual Release of Fuel Filler Flap  
89  
Hood  
Checking Coolant Level  
Adding Coolant  
At the Gas Station  
137  
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Instruments and Controls  
For more detailed descriptions see Index.  
Adjustable air outlet  
Lock for telephone control unit compartment and  
glove box  
1
18  
19  
Exterior lamp switch  
2
Parking brake release  
Glove box (illuminated with key in steering  
lock position 2)  
3
Steering wheel adjustment switch  
Combination switch  
4
5
Rear window defroster switch  
Switch for rear seat head restrains  
Active charcoal filter switch  
Hazard warning flasher switch  
Automatic climate control  
Radio  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
25  
26  
27  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
33  
Cruise control switch  
6
Horn, airbag  
7
Instrument cluster  
8
Steering lock with preglow / starter switch  
Adjustable air outlet  
9
10  
11  
12  
Heated air supply button – center air outlet  
Non – heated /coolant air supply button -  
center air outlet  
Snow chain switch  
Ashtray with lighter  
Adaptive damping system adjustment switch  
Seat heater switch  
Air volume control for left air outlet  
Air volume control for left center air outlet  
Air volume control for right center air outlet  
Air volume control for right air outlet  
Telephone control unit compartment  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
Mirror adjustment switch  
Switch for rear window sunshade  
Power window switch  
Loudspeaker front to rear fader control  
10  
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11  
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Instrument Cluster  
Fuel gauge with reserve warning lamp (yellow). See Index.  
Coolant temperature gauge. See Index.  
Trip odometer  
1
2
3
4
5
6
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
Main odometer  
Fuel consumption gauge. See Index.  
Outside temperature indicator. See Index.  
Right turn signal indicator lamp (green)  
Knob for setting clock  
Oil pressure gauge (bar) with warning lamp (red). See Index  
Left turn signal indicator lamp (green)  
Knob for instrument lamps and trip odometer Rotate knob  
to vary intensity of instrument lamps.  
(to adjust pull knob out). See Index.  
Tachometer.  
14  
15  
16  
Speedometer  
Red marking on tachometer: Excessive engine speed  
Electric clock. See Index  
7
8
ASR function indicator lamp (yellow). See Index  
12  
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Indicator Lamp Symbols  
Function Indicator Lamp  
High beam  
ASR malfunction. See Index.  
ABS malfunction  
Warning Lamps  
(should go out with the engine running unless)  
Brake pads worn down. See Index.  
Brake fluid low (except Canada).  
Parking brake engaged. See Index.  
Battery not being charged properly. See Index  
Fluid level for windshield and headlamp washer  
system low. See Index.  
Brake fluid low (Canada only).  
Parking brake engaged. See Index.  
Coolant level low. See Index.  
SRS malfunction. See Index.  
Engine oil level low. See Index.  
Fasten seat belts. See Index.  
Engine malfunction (California only). If the  
lamp comes on when the engine is running, it  
indicates a malfunction of the fuel injection system  
or emission control system. In either case, we  
recommend that you have the malfunction checked  
as soon as possible. See Index.  
Exterior lamp failure. See Index.  
ADS malfunction. See Index.  
13  
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Catalytic Converter  
Caution!  
Warning!  
Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with  
monolithic type catalytic converters, an  
important element in conjunction with  
the O2~sensor to achieve substantial  
control of the pollutants in the exhaust  
emissions. Keep your vehicle in proper  
operating condition by following our  
recommended maintenance instructions  
as outlined in your Maintenance  
Booklet.  
To prevent damage to the catalytic  
converters, use only premium unleaded  
gasoline in this vehicle.  
As with any vehicle, do not idle, park  
or operate this vehicle in areas where  
combustible materials such as grass,  
hay or leaves can come into contact  
with the hot exhaust system, as these  
materials could be ignited.  
Any noticeable irregularities in engine  
operation should be repaired promptly.  
Otherwise, excessive unburned fuel  
may reach the catalytic converter  
causing it to overheat.  
14  
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Starting and Turning Off the Engine  
Before Starting  
Hot Engine  
Important!  
Turn key in steering lock clockwise to  
the stop. Do not depress accelerator.  
If the engine has not fired after approx.  
4 seconds, depress accelerator and  
continue cranking until the engine is  
firing regularly. Release key and back  
off accelerator.  
Due to the installed starter non-repeat  
feature, the key must be turned  
completely to the left before attempting  
to start the engine again.  
Engage parking brake and move the  
selector lever to position "P".  
Turn key in steering lock to position 2.  
The charge indicator lamp should  
come on.  
Observe the oil pressure gauge  
immediately after starting the engine.  
In a very cold engine the oil pressure  
will rise slowly after the engine has  
started. Do not speed up the engine  
before pressure is registered on the  
pressure gauge.  
Cold Engine  
At very high coolant temperatures the  
engine starting time can be shortened if  
the accelerator is depressed slowly at  
the beginning of the starting process.  
Turn key in steering lock clockwise to  
the stop. Do not depress accelerator.  
Release key only when the engine is  
firing regularly.  
Turning Off  
The charge indicator lamp should go  
out as soon as the engine has started.  
In areas where temperatures frequently  
drop below -4°F (-20°C) we  
recommend that an engine block heater  
be installed. Your authorized  
Turn the key in the steering lock to  
position 0 only when the vehicle has  
stopped moving. The key can only be  
removed with the selector lever in  
position "P".  
Mercedes-Benz dealer will advise you  
on this subject.  
If the coolant temperature is very high  
(e.g. after hard driving on mountain  
roads), do not shut off the engine  
immediately, but allow it to run for 1 - 2  
minutes at increased idle speed with  
selector lever in neutral or position "P".  
15  
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Driving Instructions  
Power Assistance  
Warning!  
Warning!  
After driving in heavy rain for some  
time without applying the brakes or  
through water deep enough to wet  
brake components, the first braking  
action may be somewhat reduced  
and increased pedal pressure may be  
necessary. Be sure to maintain a safe  
distance from vehicles in front  
The stop lamps will not come on  
when applying the parking brake  
only. Perform the procedure in the  
previous paragraph only when the  
road is clear of other traffic.  
When the engine is not running, the  
brake and steering systems are without  
power assistance. Under these  
circumstances, a much greater effort is  
necessary to stop or steer the vehicle.  
Resting your foot on the brake pedal  
will cause excessive and premature  
wear of the brake pads.  
Brakes  
The condition of the parking brake  
system is checked each trine the car is  
in the shop for the required  
maintenance.  
Caution!  
It can also result in the brakes  
overheating thereby significantly  
reducing their effectiveness. It may  
not be possible to stop the car in  
sufficient time to avoid an accident  
When driving down long and steep  
grades, relieve the load on the brakes  
by shifting into "3", "2" or "B". This  
helps prevent overheating of the brakes  
and reduces brake pad wear. Do not  
exceed engine speed limits (see Index).  
After hard braking, it is advisable to  
drive on for some time, rather than  
immediately parking, so the air stream  
will cool down the brakes faster,  
Between maintenance checks, it is a  
good practice to apply the parking  
brake once or twice while driving at  
approximately 30 mph (50 km/h) on a  
dry straight road. Apply parking brake  
lightly until a slight drag on the wheels  
is felt. Keep applying the brake for  
about 10 seconds while pulling the  
release handle out before releasing the  
parking brake completely. This practice  
will keep the parking brake at  
All checks and maintenance work on  
the brake system should be carried out  
by an authorized Mercedes-Benz  
dealer.  
maximum efficiency  
16  
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If the parking brake is released and the  
brake warning lamp in the instrument  
cluster stays on, the brake fluid level in  
the reservoir is too low.  
Warning!  
Do not allow your tires to wear down  
too far. With less than 1/16 in (3 mm)  
of tread, the adhesion properties on a  
wet road are sharply reduced.  
Brake pad wear or a leak in the system  
may be the reason for low brake fluid  
in the reservoir.  
Depending upon the weather and/or  
road surface (conditions), the tire  
traction varies widely.  
Have the brake system inspected at an  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer  
immediately.  
Specified tire pressures must be  
maintained. This applies particularly if  
the tires are subjected to high loads  
(e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, high  
ambient temperatures).  
Install only brake pads and brake fluid  
recommended by Mercedes-Benz.  
Tires  
Warning!  
Warning!  
Tread wear indicators (TWI) are  
required by law. These indicators are  
located in six places on the tread  
circumference and become visible at a  
depth of approximately 1/16 in (2 mm),  
at which point the tire is considered  
worn and should be replaced.  
If other than recommended brake  
pads are installed, the braking  
properties of the vehicle can be  
degraded to an extent that safe  
braking is substantially impaired.  
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 car. Continued driving  
with a flat tire or driving at high  
speed with a flat tire will cause  
excessive heat build-up and possibly  
a fire, or tire blowout  
The tread wear indicator appears as a  
solid band across the tread.  
17  
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Aquaplaning  
We recommend M + S radial -ply tires  
for the winter season for all four  
wheels to insure normal balanced  
handling characteristics.  
Parking  
Depending on the depth of the water  
layer on the road, aquaplaning may  
occur, even at low speeds and with new  
tires. Reduce vehicle speed, avoid track  
grooves in the road and apply brakes  
cautiously in the rain.  
Warning!  
To reduce the risk of personal injury  
as a result of vehicle movement,  
before turning off the engine and  
leaving the vehicle always:  
On packed snow, they can reduce your  
stopping distance as com pared with  
summer tires. Stopping distance,  
however, is still considerably greater  
than when the road is wet or dry.  
Tire Traction  
1. Keep right foot on brake pedal.  
2. Firmly depress parking  
brake pedal.  
3. Move the selector lever to  
position "P".  
The safe speed on a wet, snow covered  
or icy road is always lower than on a dry  
road.  
4. Slowly release brake pedal.  
5. Turn front wheels towards  
the road curb.  
6. Turn the key to steering  
lock position 0 and remove.  
You should pay particular attention to  
the condition of the road whenever as the  
outside temperatures are close to the  
freezing point.  
Warning!  
Important!  
If ice has formed on the road, fire  
traction will be substantially reduced.  
Under such weather conditions, drive,  
steer and brake with extreme caution.  
It is advisable to set the parking brake  
whenever parking or leaving the  
vehicle. In addition, move selector  
lever to position "P".  
When parking on hills, always set the  
parking brake.  
18  
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Winter Driving Instructions  
become necessary to produce the  
normal brake effect. We therefore  
recommend depressing the brake pedal  
repeatedly when traveling on salt-  
strewn roads at length. This can bring  
road salt impaired braking efficiency  
back to normal. A prerequisite is,  
however, that this is possible without  
endangering other drivers on the road.  
Warning!  
The most important rule for slippery or  
icy roads is to drive sensibly and to  
avoid abrupt ac celeration, braking and  
steering maneuvers. Do not use the  
cruise control system under such  
conditions.  
If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow,  
make sure that snow is kept clear of  
the exhaust pipe and from around  
the vehicle with engine running.  
Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide  
(CO) gases may enter vehicle interior  
resulting in unconsciousness and  
death.  
When the vehicle is in danger of  
skidding, move selector lever to  
position "N". Try to keep the vehicle  
under control by corrective steering  
action.  
If the vehicle is parked after being  
driven on salt treated roads, the braking  
efficiency should be tested as soon as  
possible after driving is resumed while  
observing the safety rules in the  
previous paragraph.  
To assure sufficient fresh air  
ventilation, open a window slightly  
on the side of the car that is out of  
the wind.  
Road salts and chemicals can adversely  
affect braking efficiency Increased  
pedal force may  
19  
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20  
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Operation  
21  
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Air Outlets  
Air volume control for left air  
outlet, turn left open  
Air volume control for left center  
air outlet, turn left open  
Air volume control for right center  
outlet, turn left open  
Left center air outlet, adjustable  
Right center air outlet, adjustable  
Side air outlet, left and right, adjustable  
Heated air supply button – center  
air outlet (red indicator)  
Note:  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Dust particles (down to a certain  
Size) and pollen are filtered out  
Before outside air enters the  
passenger compartment through  
the air distribution system.  
Non – heated/cooled air supply  
button – center air outlet (blue indicator)  
9
Air volume control for right air  
outlet, turn left to open  
22  
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Right side passenger  
compartment:  
Automatic Climate Control  
Left side passenger compartment  
Temperature selector  
Temperature display  
Automatic mode  
Defrost  
Temperature selector  
Temperature display  
Automatic mode  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
12  
13  
14  
15  
Residual engine heat utilization  
Air recirculation  
Air volume selector  
Economy  
Air distribution buttons  
Air distribution buttons  
Selection switch  
Off  
10  
11  
23  
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The temperature selected with the  
temperature selector is reached as  
quickly as possible.  
1, 12 Temperature Selector  
Note:  
The desired interior temperature can be  
selected separately for the left and right  
side of the passenger compartment.  
If the Automatic Climate Control is in  
the "Diagnosis Mode", turn key in  
steering lock to position 0 to return it to  
its normal operation.  
The temperature selector should be left  
at the desired temperature setting.  
A basic setting in the white field of the  
selector is recommended, and can be  
used for driving year round.  
With the center air outlets open and the  
system in heating mode, switch the  
outlets to non-heated/ cooled air by  
pressing the blue button (indicator lamp  
lights up).  
5 Defrost  
Maximum heated and automatically  
controlled amount of air is directed to  
the windshield and side windows.  
As the engine coolant temperature  
increases, the air volume is auto-  
matically increased, thereby defrosting  
as quickly as possible.  
The selected temperature can be shown  
in the display window (2) in either °F  
or °C.  
With the center air outlets open and the  
system in cooling mode, switch the  
outlets to non-heated/ fresh air by  
pressing the red button (indicator lamp  
lights up).  
3, 14 Automatic Mode  
This is the normal setting.  
Open and direct air outlets (7) towards  
the side windows.  
Air volume and distribution are  
controlled automatically.  
The system will not heat or cool any  
quicker by setting a higher or lower  
temperature.  
Note:  
Press  
once again to return to  
To select: Press  
button  
previous setting.  
(indicator lamp lights up)  
To change selection:  
Press  
The automatic climate control only  
operates with the engine running.  
Defogging Windows  
Switch off  
, or switch on  
The automatic climate control removes  
considerable moisture from the air  
during operation in the cooling mode.  
It is normal for water to drip on the  
ground through ducts in the underbody  
or  
(left and right side), or switch on  
button (indicator lamp of selected  
button lights up). The indicator lamp  
Note:  
for  
button goes out.  
To quickly defog the inside of the  
windshield, select the largest air  
volume and air distribution button  
24  
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6 Residual Engine Heat  
Utilization  
The system will automatically  
shut off  
The system will automatically switch  
from recirculated air to fresh air if  
button  
is pressed  
With the engine switched off, it is  
possible to continue heating the interior  
for a short while. The rear passenger  
compartment air outlet must be closed.  
Air volume and distribution are  
controlled automatically.  
after approx. 30 minutes,  
if the engine coolant temperature  
drops below 122°F (50°C),  
if the battery voltage drops.  
after approx. 5 minutes at  
outside temperatures below  
approx. 40°F(5°C),  
7 Air Recirculation  
after approx. 20 minutes, at  
outside temperatures above  
approx. 40°F (5°C),  
To select:  
Outside air is not supplied to the car's  
interior.  
Turn key in steering lock to position 1  
or 0 or remove key.  
if button  
is pressed  
This mode can be selected to prevent  
annoying odors or dust from entering  
the car's interior.  
after approx. 5 minutes.  
Press  
button (indicator lamp  
Notes:  
lights up). This function selection will  
not activate if the engine coolant  
To select: Press  
button  
If the windows should fog up from the  
inside, switch from recirculated air  
back to fresh air.  
temperature is below 122°F (50°C) or  
if the battery charge level is insufficient.  
(indicator lamp lights up).  
To cancel:  
To cancel:  
Press  
button  
At high outside temperatures, the  
system automatically engages the  
recirculated air mode thereby  
increasing the cooling capacity  
performance, switching to partially  
fresh air within 20 minutes.  
Press  
button  
(indicator lamp goes out  
(indicator lamp goes out).  
Turn key in steering lock to  
position 2.  
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8
Air Volume Selector  
11 Off  
Important!  
The air volume is automatically  
regulated in  
The fresh air supply to the car interior  
is shut off.  
This vehicle is equipped with an air  
conditioner system that uses HFC-134a  
(ozone-friendly hydro-fluorocarbon) as  
a refrigerant.  
AUTO = Normal setting  
and all intermediate positions, except  
when selecting  
While driving, use this setting only  
temporarily, otherwise the windshield  
could fog up.  
Repairs should always be performed by  
a qualified technician, and refrigerant  
should be collected in a recovery  
system for recycling.  
MIN  
= minimum air flow,  
MAX = maximum air flow.  
9
Economy  
The function of this setting corresponds  
to the automatic mode. However,  
because the air conditioning compressor  
will not engage (fuel savings), it is not  
possible to air condition in this setting.  
26  
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4 Adjustable air outlet, left side  
5 Adjustable air outlet, right side  
6 Air distribution slide  
7
Top position: air flow from air  
outlets (5 and 6),  
Bottom position: air flow from air  
outlets beneath front seats.  
Intermediate positions can be  
selected for a mixed air flow.  
Note:  
Active Charcoal Filter  
The rear passenger climate control does  
not operate with automatic climate  
Rear Passenger Compartment  
Climate Control  
1 Switch on  
2 Switch off  
An active charcoal filter markedly  
reduces bad odors and removes  
pollutants from the air entering the  
passenger compartment.  
control in  
mode or switched off  
with button  
1 Temperature selector, left side  
2 Temperature selector, right side  
A basic setting in the white field of the  
selector is recommended.  
When pressing button  
or  
, the  
3 Air volume selector  
filter is automatically switched off.  
The air volume can be varied  
continuously. The air flow is switched  
off with selector in position "0".  
Note:  
The active charcoal filter should be  
switched off when windows fog up on  
the inside, or if the passenger  
compartment needs to be quickly  
heated up or cooled down.  
27  
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Car Keys  
We recommend that you carry the flat  
key with you and keep it in a safe place  
(e.g. your wallet) so that it is always  
handy. Never leave the flat key in the  
vehicle.  
Master Key  
Included with your vehicle are:  
2 Master keys with infrared  
remote control,  
1 Master key,  
Warning!  
1 Valet key,  
The master key fits all locks on the car.  
1 Flat key.  
When leaving the vehicle always  
remove the key from the steering  
lock. Do not leave children  
unattended in the vehicle.  
Unsupervised use of vehicle  
equipment may cause serious  
personal injury.  
Valet Key  
Master Key with Infrared  
Remote Control  
Obtaining Replacement Keys  
The valet key fits only the door locks  
and the steering lock.  
Your vehicle is equipped with a theft  
deterrent locking system requiring a  
special key manufacturing process. For  
security reasons, replacement keys can  
only be obtained from your authorized  
Mercedes-Benz dealer.  
The valet key will not fit the trunk lock  
or storage compartments lock in the  
dashboard.  
The master key fits all locks on the car.  
The transmitter for the infrared remote  
control is located in the key holder, the  
receivers are located in the door  
Flat Key  
handles and next to the trunk lock.  
The flat key fits all locks on the car.  
28  
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3 Receiver in door handle  
Infrared Remote Control  
Master Key in Key Holder  
Release button for master key  
Unlocking:  
1 Transmit button  
1
Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver  
(3) and press transmit button (1).  
Distance to receiver max. 20 ft (6 m).  
Transmitter eye and battery  
check  
Releasing: press release button (1). The  
key unfolds from the holder by itself.  
The vehicle can be centrally locked and  
unlocked, as well as the windows and  
sliding roof closed with infrared remote  
control.  
Storing: press release button (1) and  
fold key back into holder.  
The green indicator lamps on the  
receivers should blink. They stop  
blinking when the vehicle is unlocked.  
Note:  
The transmitter is located in the key  
holder, the receivers are located in the  
door handles and next to the trunk lock.  
If the trunk was previously locked  
separately, it will remain locked  
(see Index).  
29  
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Notes:  
Closing Windows and Sliding/  
Pop-Up Roof from Outside  
If a door or the trunk is not properly  
closed after you attempt to lock the car  
by remote control, the red indicator  
lamps will continue to blink (max. 10  
seconds). Open the door or trunk lid,  
close it properly, and lock the car  
again.  
Continue to press transmit button (1)  
after locking car. The windows and  
sliding/pop-up roof begin to close after  
approx. 1 second.  
Warning!  
If the vehicle cannot be locked or  
unlocked by pressing the transmit  
button (1), then it may be necessary to  
change the batteries in the transmitter  
(if ok, battery indicator lamp in  
transmitter will light briefly when  
transmitting) or to synchronize the  
system, see Remote Control, Infrared  
in Index  
Never close the windows or sliding/  
pop-up roof if there is the possibility  
of anyone being harmed by the  
closing procedure.  
In case the closing procedure causes  
potential danger, the closing  
4 Receiver next to trunk lock  
procedure can be immediately  
reversed by turning the key to the  
unlocking position (3) within 10  
seconds, or releasing and pressing  
the remote control button again until  
the green indicator lamps at the  
receivers blink. The sliding/ pop-up  
roof and windows will open again.  
The sliding/popup roof will only open  
if it was not fully closed.  
Locking:  
Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver (3)  
and press transmit button (1). Distance  
to receiver max. 20 ft (6 m).  
The red indicator lamps on the  
receivers should blink. They stop  
blinking after approximately 3 seconds  
when the vehicle is properly locked.  
30  
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Note:  
If the side windows and sliding/ pop-up  
roof cannot be opened or closed  
automatically by using the key or by  
pressing the transmit button of the  
infrared remote control (e.g. after a  
battery change), press down  
side of  
power window switch in center console  
until the window is completely closed  
and hold for additional 2 seconds.  
Repeat procedure for each window.  
The automatic opening and closing  
procedure of the windows and sliding/  
pop-up roof should now be restored.  
Doors  
Central Locking System  
1 Opening - pull handle  
2 Unlocking  
The entire vehicle may be locked or  
unlocked by either using the master key  
in the door or trunk locks, or central  
locking switch located in driver's door.  
The central locking system also locks or  
unlocks the fuel filler flap.  
3 Locking  
4 Individual door from inside:  
Push lock button down to  
lock.  
Pull lock button up to unlock.  
5 Central locking switch  
Note:  
When you lock the car, all door lock  
buttons should move down. If any one  
stays up, the respective door is not  
properly closed.  
If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened,  
refer to Fuel Filler Flap, Manual  
Release (see Index).  
31  
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You should then unlock the car, open  
and recluse this door, and lock the car  
again. Each individual door can be  
locked with door lock button - the  
driver's door can only be locked when  
it is closed.  
Notes:  
In case of a malfunction in the central  
locking system the doors and trunk can  
be locked and unlocked individually.  
To lock, turn key to position 3 or push  
down lock buttons.  
The doors can only be locked with the  
central locking switch, if the front  
doors are closed.  
To unlock, turn key to position 2 or  
pull up lock buttons.  
The doors cannot be unlocked with the  
central locking switch, if car was  
previously locked from outside.  
Trunk  
The trunk lid can be lowered by using  
the recessed grips in the trunk lid liner,  
and closed with the dirt-free retracting  
handle.  
1 Neutral position - push to open  
2 Unlocking  
3 Locking (detent)  
4 Separate locking of trunk -  
remove key in this position.  
The entire car is unlocked with the  
central locking switch, if a front door is  
opened.  
If the trunk lid cannot be closed, refer  
to Trunk Lid, Manual Closing (see  
Index).  
If the car has previously been locked  
from the outside, only the door being  
opened from the inside will unlock, the  
remaining doors, the trunk lid and fuel  
filler flap remain locked.  
When the trunk is separately locked,  
it remains locked when unlocking  
any door.  
To deny any unauthorized person  
access to the trunk, lock it  
separately. Leave only the valet key  
with the vehicle.  
32  
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When locking doors or trunk, turn key  
in door lock or trunk lock to position 1  
and hold. The windows and the  
sliding/pop-up roof begin to close  
automatically after approximately 1  
second.  
Note:  
If the closing procedure is interrupted,  
it can only be continued by first turning  
the key to the unlocked position (3) and  
then again to the locking position (1).  
To interrupt the closing procedure,  
turn key to position 2.  
Warning!  
Never close the windows or sliding/  
pop-up roof if there is the possibility  
of anyone being harmed by the  
closing procedure.  
Door lock, left  
and trunk lock  
In case the closing procedure causes  
potential danger, the closing  
Power Windows and Sliding/  
Pop-Up Roof  
procedure can be immediately  
reversed by turning the key to the  
unlocking position (3) within 10  
seconds. The sliding/pop-up roof  
and windows will open again. The  
sliding/pop-up roof will only open if  
it was not fully closed.  
1 Closing  
2 Interrupting  
3 Opening  
33  
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Power Closing Assist for Doors and  
Trunk Lid  
Note:  
Warning!  
If the trunk lid does not close, refer to  
Trunk Lid, Manual Closing in Index.  
To prevent possible personal injury,  
always keep hands and fingers away  
from the door or trunk opening  
when closing a door or the trunk lid.  
Be especially careful when small  
children are around.  
The doors and trunk lid close  
automatically if:  
doors are pushed against the lock,  
trunk lid is lowered against the lock,  
The pneumatic power closing assist  
mechanism cannot be interrupted  
once it has been engaged.  
It is not necessary to slam doors or  
trunk lid closed, a pneumatic power-  
assisted mechanism will latch doors  
and trunk lid quietly and automatically  
once the lid or door has been brought  
to a close. When the pneumatic power-  
assisted mechanism has stopped, doors  
and/or trunk can be reopened.  
To prevent personal injury, never  
activate the closing assist mechanism  
by tampering with the door or trunk  
lid latch.  
34  
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Anti-Theft Alarm System  
The alarm will last approximately 150  
seconds in the form of blinking exterior  
lamps. At the same time an additional  
horn will sound intermittently for 60  
seconds, pause for 30 seconds, and  
repeat for another 60 seconds. The  
alarm will stay on even if the activating  
element (a door, for example) is  
immediately closed.  
Note:  
The anti-theft alarm can be armed or  
disarmed with any of your vehicles  
keys or infrared remote control by  
locking or unlocking either front door  
or the trunk.  
Do not give the master key to an  
unauthorized person. We recommend  
that you carry the flat key safely with  
you so that it is always handy. The flat  
key has the same functions as the  
master key.  
Operation  
Once the alarm system has been  
armed, the exterior vehicle lamps will  
flash and the horn will sound  
intermittently when someone:  
opens a door,  
opens the trunk,  
opens the hood,  
removes the radio,  
switches on or bridges the  
ignition circuit  
steps on the brake pedal  
35  
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Seat and head restraint adjustment:  
Warning!  
A Seat, fore/aft, up/down  
B Seat tilt  
Do not adjust the driver's seat while  
driving. Adjusting the seat while  
driving could cause the driver to  
lose control of the vehicle.  
C Seat cushion depth  
D Backrest tilt  
E Head restraint Adjust head restraint  
to support the back of the head  
approximately at ear level. The head  
restraint inclination can also be  
adjusted manually.  
Never ride in a moving vehicle with  
the seat back reclined. Sitting in an  
excessively reclined position can be  
dangerous. You could slide under  
these at belt in a collision. If you  
slide under it, the belt would apply  
force at the abdomen or neck. That  
could cause serious or even fatal  
injuries. The seat back and seat  
belts provide the best restraint  
when the wearer is in an upright  
position and belts are properly  
positioned on the body.  
Note:  
Your car is equipped with power  
head restraints, do not try to raise or  
lower them manually.  
Power Seats, Front  
The slide switches are located in each  
front door.  
Turn key in steering lock to position 1  
or 2 (with the driver's or front  
passenger's door open, the power seats  
can also be operated with the key  
removed or in steering lock position 0).  
Never place hands under or near  
any moving parts while a seat is  
being adjusted.  
36  
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Storing seat/head restraint/ steering  
wheel/exterior and inside rear view  
mirror positions in memory:  
Recalling seat/head restraint/ steering  
wheel/exterior and inside rear view  
mirror positions stored in memory:  
Three sets of seat/head restraint/  
steering wheel/exterior and inside rear  
view mirror positions may be  
To recall a seat/head restraint/ steering  
wheel/exterior and inside rear view  
mirror position, push and hold position  
button "1", "2" or "3" until seat/head  
restraint/ steering wheel/exterior and  
inside rear view mirror movement has  
stopped. The seat/head restraint/  
steering wheel/exterior and inside rear  
view mirror movement stops when the  
position button is released.  
programmed into memory. After the  
seat/head restraint/steering wheel/  
exterior and inside rear view mirrors  
are positioned, push memory button F,  
release, and within 3 seconds push  
position button "1". A second and third  
set of positions for the same seat/ head  
restraint/steering wheel/ exterior and  
inside rear view mirrors can be  
programmed into memory by pushing  
first button "F" and then "2",  
Caution!  
F Memory button  
G Position buttons  
Do not remove head restraints except  
when mounting seat covers. For  
removal and installation refer to Head  
Restraints, Removal in Index.  
Whenever restraints have been  
removed be sure to reinstall them  
before driving.  
respectively "3".  
Note:  
See Index for instructions on  
adjustment of steering wheel and  
mirrors.  
37  
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Important!  
Prior to operating the vehicle, the  
driver should adjust the seat height for  
proper vision as well as fore/aft  
placement and seat back angle to insure  
adequate control, reach, operation, and  
comfort. The head restraint should also  
be adjusted for proper height.  
Fasten seat belts. Infants and small  
children should be seated in a properly  
secured restraint system that complies  
with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle  
Safety Standard 213 and Canadian  
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.1.  
Bring seat backrest to upright position  
before recalling a stored seat/head  
restraint/steering wheel/exterior and  
inside rear view mirror position,  
otherwise the front seats could get  
forced against a rear seat and be  
damaged.  
All seat, head restraint, and rear view  
mirror adjustments as well as fastening  
of seat belts should be done before the  
vehicle is put into motion.  
Both the inside and outside rear view  
mirrors should be adjusted for adequate  
rearward vision.  
38  
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The amount of cushion height and  
curvature may be adjusted after turning  
the key in steering lock to position 2.  
The inflation pressure of the air  
cushion can be continuously varied  
between position "0" = without  
pressure, and position "5" = maximum  
pressure, by changing the pressure  
regulator (2) setting.  
The seats have inflatable air cushions  
built into the backrest to provide  
additional lumbar and side support.  
The side bolsters of the backrest can be  
adjusted with push button (3):  
Top  
Center  
Bottom  
pushing forward-increase side  
support,  
pushing backward-decrease side  
support.  
can be selected together with  
or  
The amount of cushion height and  
curvature may be adjusted after turning  
the key in steering lock to position 2.  
If the engine is turned off, the last  
cushion setting is retained in memory,  
and automatically adjusts the cushion  
to this setting when the engine is  
restarted.  
Orthopedic Seat Backrest  
1 Height regulator  
2 Pressure regulator  
3 Side bolster adjustment  
39  
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The front seat heaters can be switched  
on with the key in steering lock  
positions 1 or 2, the rear seat heaters  
only in steering lock position 2.  
Note:  
When in operation, the seat heater  
consumes a large amount of power. It is  
advisable not to use the seat heater  
longer than necessary.  
Press switch to turn on heater:  
1 Normal heating mode. One  
indicator lamp in the switch  
lights up.  
The seat heaters may automatically  
switch off if too many power  
consumers are switched on at the same  
time, or if the battery charge is low.  
When this occurs, the indicator lamp in  
the switch will blink (both indicator  
lamps blink during rapid seat heating).  
The seat heaters will switch on again  
automatically as soon as sufficient  
voltage is available.  
2 Rapid heating mode. Both  
indicator lamps in the switch  
light up.  
After approximately 5 minutes in  
the rapid heating mode, the heater  
automatically switches to normal  
operation and only one indicator  
lamp will stay on.  
Heated Seats  
The front seat heater switches are  
located to the left and right side of the  
center console ashtray.  
If the blinking of the indicator lamps is  
distracting to you, the seat heaters can  
be switched off.  
Turning off heater:  
If one indicator lamp is on, press upper  
half of switch.  
The rear seat heater switches are  
located in each rear door.  
If both indicator lamps are on, press  
lower half of switch.  
If left on, the heater automatically  
turns off after approximately 30  
minutes of operation  
40  
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Warning!  
The armrest does not suffice as a  
child restraint system. In case of a  
frontal collision a child can be  
catapulted forward over the locked  
armrest. Infants and small children  
should always be seated in a  
properly secured restraint system  
that complies with U.S. Federal  
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213  
and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety  
Standard 213.1.  
Armrest with Compartment for  
Telephone Handset  
Press button (4) to open cover.  
Note:  
(Front Seats)  
The cover cannot be opened with  
armrest raised above the top comfort  
position.  
1 Armrest folded down  
2 Normal use (3 comfort positions)  
3 Armrest folded up  
Folding down:  
Raise armrest past top comfort position  
and push down.  
Adjusting height:  
Raise armrest to desired position  
41  
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Power Seats, Rear  
The seats can be adjusted using the slide  
switches located in either of the rear  
doors.  
Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or  
2 (with the driver's or front passenger's  
door open, the power seats can also be  
operated with the key removed or in  
steering lock position 0).  
Seat Bench  
Individual Seats  
1 Backrest tilt  
1
Backrest tilt  
The seat cushion moves fore/aft  
together with the inclination of the  
backrest.  
2
Seat tilt  
42  
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Adjusting Front Passenger Seat from  
Rear Seat  
The front passenger seat can be  
adjusted from the rear seat using the  
slide switches located in the right rear  
door.  
Turn key in steering lock to position 1  
or 2 (with the driver's or front  
passenger's door open, the power seats  
can also be operated with the key  
removed or in steering lock position 0).  
Warning!  
Armrest with Integrated Storage  
1 Switch for front passenger seat  
or rear seat selection.  
Adjustments of the front passenger  
seat from the rear seat should be  
made only with caution and due  
regard for the proper positioning of  
the front passenger seat occupant.  
Compartment (Rear Bench Seat)  
Pull down the armrest by its strap.  
Slide switch (1) forward to adjust front  
passenger seat:  
Before storing the armrest in the  
backrest, close its storage compartment  
lid.  
2 Seat, fore/aft  
3 Backrest tilt  
4 Head restraint down  
For the removal of the Rear Seat  
Cushion, see Index.  
Slide switch (1) rearward to adjust rear  
seat (see previous page).  
43  
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Important!  
For safety reasons, always drive with  
the rear head restraints in the upright  
position when the rear seats are  
occupied.  
Keep area around head restraints clear  
of articles (e.g. clothing) to not obstruct  
the folding operation of the head  
restraints.  
Switches in rear doors  
Switch on center console  
Switch in center console:  
Power Head Restraints, Rear  
Both head restraints together can be  
placed in either upright and fold down  
position.  
Turn key in steering lock to position 1  
or 2 (with the driver's or front  
passenger's door open, the power head  
restraints can also be operated with the  
key removed or in steering lock  
position 0).  
Switches in rear doors:  
The head restraints can be placed  
individually in either upright or fold-  
down position.  
Activate switch:  
1 Place head restraint upright.  
2 Fold head restraint backward  
Inclination of head restraints:  
The head restraint inclination can  
be adjusted manually.  
44  
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Adjustable Steering Wheel  
Note:  
Turn key in steering lock to position 1  
or 2 (with the driver's or front  
passenger's door open, the steering  
wheel can also be operated with the key  
removed or in steering lock position 0).  
The steering wheel position can be  
stored in memory together with the  
seat/head restraint/exterior and inside  
rear view mirror positions, see Index.  
Warning!  
To lengthen or shorten the steering  
column, push in or pull out switch (1).  
Do not adjust the steering wheel while  
driving. Adjusting the steering wheel  
while driving could cause the driver to  
lose control of the vehicle.  
To raise or lower steering wheel, push  
switch (1) up or down.  
45  
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Seat Belts and Supplemental  
Restraint System (SRS)  
Warning!  
Seat Belt Warning System  
Never ride in a moving vehicle with  
the seat back reclined. Sitting in an  
excessively reclined position can be  
dangerous. You could slide under the  
seat belt in a collision. If you slide  
under it, the belt would apply force  
at the abdomen or neck. That could  
cause serious or even fatal injuries.  
The seat back and seat belts provide  
the best restraint when the wearer is  
in an upright position and belts are  
properly positioned on the body.  
With the key in steering lock position  
2, an audible warning sounds for a  
short time if the driver's seat belt is not  
fastened.  
Your vehicle is equipped with seat  
belts for all seats, emergency  
tensioning retractors for the front seats,  
as well as airbags and knee bolsters for  
driver and front passenger.  
Warning!  
Seat Belts  
If you are ever in an accident, your  
injuries can be considerably more  
severe without your seat belt  
properly buckled. Without your seat  
belt buckled, you can hit the interior  
of the vehicle or be ejected from it.  
You can be seriously injured or  
killed.  
Important!  
Laws in most states and all Canadian  
provinces require seat belt use.  
All states and provinces require use of  
child restraints that comply with U.S.  
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard  
213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle  
Safety Standard 213.1.  
In the same crash, the possibility for  
injury or death is lessened with your  
seat belt buckled.  
We strongly recommend their use  
46  
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For safety reasons, avoid adjusting the  
seat or seat back into positions which  
could affect the correct seat belt  
position.  
Unfastening of Seat Belts  
Push the release button (3) in the belt  
buckle (2).  
Allow the retractor to completely  
rewind the seat belt by guiding the  
latch plate (1).  
Notes:  
Adjust seat belt so that shoulder portion  
is located as close as possible to the  
middle of your shoulder. Do not twist  
the belt.  
1 Latch plate  
2 Buckle  
The rear seat belt buckles can be stored  
in the space next to the rear armrest (to  
the left and right of armrest). The rear  
center seat belt should be latched and  
stored under the armrest.  
3 Release button  
Fastening of Seat Belts  
The shoulder portion of the seat belt  
must be pulled snug and checked for  
snugness immediately after engaging it.  
Push latch plate (1) into buckle (2)  
until it clicks.  
For cleaning and care of the seat belts,  
see Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle  
in Index.  
The lap belt should be positioned as  
low as possible on your hips and not  
across the abdomen.  
The height setting for the shoulder  
portion of the front seat belts are  
automatically adjusted by the fore/aft  
movement of the front seat.  
Seat moved to front: Belt outlet fully  
lowered.  
Operation:  
Three-point seat belt:  
Tighten the lap portion to a snug  
fit by pulling shoulder portion up.  
Rear center seat belt:  
The inertia reel stops the belt from  
unwinding during sudden vehicle stops  
or when quickly pulling on the belt.  
The locking function of the reel may be  
checked by quickly pulling out the belt.  
Seat moved to rear: Belt outlet fully  
raised.  
Tighten to a snug fit by feeding  
belt toward retractor.  
47  
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Warning!  
Position the lap belt as low as  
possible on your hips and not  
across the abdomen. If the belt is  
positioned across your abdomen,  
it could cause serious injuries in a  
crash.  
by a lap belt or lap belt portion of  
a lap-shoulder belt. Children  
could be endangered in an  
accident if their child restraints  
are not properly secured in the  
vehicle.  
USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY.  
Each occupant should wear their  
seat belt at all times. Together  
with the "SRS" (airbags, ETR's  
and knee bolsters for driver and  
front seat passenger), the seat  
belt offers the best conditions for  
protection of the body in case of  
major frontal impact.  
Each seat belt should never be  
used for more than one person at  
a time.  
Rear-facing child restraints must  
not be used in the front seat with  
a passenger side airbag. They  
could be struck by the airbag  
when it inflates in a crash. If this  
happens, a child in the restraint  
could be seriously injured.  
Belts should not be worn twisted.  
In a crash, you wouldn't have the  
full width of the belt to take  
impact forces. The twisted belt  
against your body could cause  
injuries.  
Improperly positioned seat belts  
do not provide maximum  
protection and may cause serious  
injuries in case of an accident.  
According to accident statistics,  
children are safer when properly  
restrained in the rear seating  
positions than in the front seating  
positions.  
Never wear the shoulder belt  
under your arm, against your  
neck or off your shoulder. In a  
crash, your body would move too  
far forward. That would increase  
the chance of head and neck  
injuries. The belt would also apply  
top much force to the ribs, which  
could severely injure internal  
organs such as your liver or  
spleen  
Pregnant women should also use a  
lap-shoulder belt. The lap belt  
portion should be positioned as  
low as possible on the hips to  
avoid any possible pressure on the  
abdomen.  
Children too big for child  
restraint systems should ride in  
rear seats using regular seat belts.  
Position shoulder belt across chest  
and shoulder, not face or neck. A  
booster seat may be necessary to  
achieve proper belt positioning  
USE CHILD RESTRAINTS  
PROPERLY.  
Infants and small children must be  
seated in an infant or child  
restraint system, which is properly  
secured  
48  
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Seat belt not fastened  
In cases of other frontal impacts,  
roll-overs, certain side impacts, rear  
collisions, or other accidents without  
frontal forces, the emergency  
tensioning retractors will not be  
activated. The driver and passengers  
will then be protected by the fastened  
seat belts and inertia reel in the usual  
manner.  
first threshold exceeded:  
airbag activates, but not ETR  
Driver and front passenger systems  
operate independently from each other.  
Emergency Tensioning  
Retractor (ETR)  
For seat belt and emergency ten-  
sioning retractor safety guidelines see  
Safety Guidelines in Index.  
The seat belts for the front seats are  
equipped with emergency tensioning  
retractors. These tensioning retractors  
are located in each belt's inertia reel  
and become operationally ready with  
the key in steering lock position 1 or 2.  
Supplemental Restraint System  
(SRS)  
The emergency tensioning retractors  
are designed to activate only when the  
seat belts are fastened during frontal  
and front-angled impacts exceeding the  
first threshold of the SRS. They re-  
move slack from the belts in such a  
way that the seat belts fit more snugly  
against the body restricting its forward  
movement as much as possible.  
The SRS uses two crash severity levels  
(thresholds) to activate either the ETR  
or airbag or both. Activation depends  
on exceeding the thresholds and  
fastening of the seat belt.  
Seat belt fastened  
first threshold exceeded:  
ETR activates  
second threshold exceeded:  
airbag also activates  
49  
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Airbags  
The most effective occupant restraint  
system yet developed for use in  
production vehicles is the seat belt. In  
some cases, however, the protective  
effect of a seat belt can be further  
enhanced by an airbag.  
The driver airbag (1) is located in the  
steering wheel hub. The passenger  
airbag (2) is located in the dashboard  
ahead of the passenger. In conjunction  
with wearing the seat belts with  
emergency tensioning retractors (4),  
they provide increased protection for  
the driver and passenger in certain  
major frontal and front angled impacts.  
The operational readiness of the airbag  
system is verified by the indicator lamp  
"SRS" (3) in the instrument cluster. If  
no fault is detected, the lamp will go  
out after approximately 4 seconds; after  
the lamp goes out, the system continues  
to monitor the components and  
circuitry of the airbag system and will  
indicate a malfunction by coming on  
again  
50  
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The following system components are  
monitored or undergo a self-check:  
crash-sensor, airbag ignition circuits,  
driver and passenger seat belt buckles.  
Initially, when the key is turned from  
steering lock position 0 to positions 1  
or 2, malfunctions in the crash-sensor  
are detected and indicated (the "SRS"  
indicator lamp stays on longer than 4  
seconds).  
In the event a malfunction of the "SRS"  
is indicated as outlined above, the  
"SRS" may not be operational. We  
strongly recommend that you visit an  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer  
immediately to have the system  
checked; otherwise the "SRS" may not  
be activated when needed.  
Important!  
The airbags are designed to activate  
only in certain frontal and front-  
angled impacts (within the shaded  
area shown in the illustration on  
page 48). Only during these types of  
impacts will they provide their  
supplemental protection. The driver  
and passenger should always wear  
the seat belts, otherwise it is not  
possible for the airbags to provide  
their intended supplemental  
In the operational mode, after the  
indicator lamp has gone out following  
the initial check, interruptions and short  
circuits in the airbag ignition circuit  
and in the driver and passenger seat  
belt buckle harnesses, and low voltage  
in the entire system are detected and  
indicated.  
protection.  
In cases of other frontal impacts,  
roll-overs, certain side impacts, rear  
collisions, or other accidents without  
sufficient frontal forces, the airbag  
will not be activated. The driver and  
passengers will then be protected by  
the fastened seat belts.  
51  
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Important!  
Warning!  
Do not lean with your head or  
chest close to the steering wheel  
or dashboard.  
The "SRS" is designed to reduce the  
potential of injury in certain frontal  
and front-angled impacts which may  
cause injuries, however, no system  
available today can totally eliminate  
injuries and fatalities.  
It is very important for your safety  
to always be in a properly seated  
position and to wear your seat belt.  
Adjust the passenger seat as far  
as possible rearward from the  
dashboard.  
For maximum protection in the  
event of a collision always be in  
normal seated position with your  
back against the seat back. Fasten  
your seat belt and ensure that it is  
properly positioned on the body.  
Infants and small children should  
only be seated in a rear seat and  
be properly secured in a child  
restraint system.  
The activation of the "SRS"  
temporarily releases a small amount  
of dust from the air-bags. This dust,  
however, is neither injurious to your  
health, nor does it indicate a fire in  
the vehicle.  
Since the airbag inflates with  
Rear-facing child restraints must  
not be used in a front seat with a  
passenger side airbag.  
considerable speed and force, a  
proper seating position will keep you  
in a safe distance from the airbag:  
The service life of the airbags extends  
to the date indicated on the label  
located on the driver-side door latch  
post. To provide continued reliability  
after that date, they should be  
Failure to follow these instructions  
can result in severe injuries to you or  
other occupants.  
Sit properly belted in an upright  
position with your back against  
the seat back.  
inspected by an authorized Mercedes-  
Benz dealer at that time and replaced  
when necessary.  
52  
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Safety Guidelines for the Seat Belt,  
Emergency Tensioning Retractor  
and Airbag  
The "SRS" is designed to function  
on a one-time-only basis. An  
airbag or emergency tensioning  
retractor (ETR) that was  
Improper work on the system,  
including incorrect installation  
and removal, can lead to possible  
injury through an uncontrolled  
activation of the "SRS".  
Warning!  
activated must be replaced.  
Damaged belts or belts that were  
highly stressed in an accident must  
be replaced and their anchoring  
points must also be checked. Use  
only belts installed or supplied by  
an authorized Mercedes-Benz  
dealer.  
No modifications of any kind may  
be made to any components or  
wiring of the "SRS". This  
includes the installation of  
additional trim material, badges  
etc. over the steering wheel hub or  
front passenger airbag cover and  
installation of additional  
In addition, through improper  
work there is the risk of  
rendering the "SRS" inoperative.  
Work on the "SRS" must  
therefore only be performed by  
an authorized Mercedes-Benz  
dealer.  
Do not pass belts over sharp edges.  
electrical/electronic equipment on  
or near "SRS" components and  
wiring.  
When scrapping the airbag  
unit or emergency tensioning  
retractor, it is mandatory to  
follow our safety instructions.  
These instructions are available  
at your authorized Mercedes-  
Benz dealer.  
Do not make any modification that  
could change the effectiveness of  
the belts.  
Several airbag system components  
at the steering wheel get hot after  
the airbag has inflated. Don't try  
to touch them.  
When you sell the vehicle we strongly  
urge you to give notice to the  
subsequent owner that it is equipped  
with an "SRS" by alerting him to the  
applicable section in the Owner's  
Manual.  
53  
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Infant and Child Restraint  
Systems  
Warning!  
Children too big for child restraint  
systems should ride in rear seats  
using regular seat belts. Position  
shoulder belt across chest and  
shoulder, not face or neck. A booster  
seat may be necessary to achieve  
proper belt positioning.  
According to accident statistics,  
children are safer when properly  
restrained in the rear seating positions  
than in the front seating positions.  
We recommend that all infants and  
children be restrained at all times while  
the vehicle is in motion.  
Important!  
Rear-facing child restraints must not  
be used in the front passenger seat.  
They could be struck by the airbag  
when it inflates in a crash. If this  
happens, a child in the restraint could  
be seriously injured.  
When the child restraint is not in  
use, remove it from the car or secure  
it with the seat belt to prevent the  
child restraint from becoming a  
projectile in the event of an accident.  
The use of infant or child restraints is  
required by law in all 50 states and all  
Canadian provinces.  
Infants and small children should be  
seated in an infant or child restraint  
system, which is properly secured by a  
lap belt or lap belt portion of a lap-  
shoulder belt, and that complies with  
U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety  
Standard 213 and Canadian Motor  
Vehicle Safety Standard 213.1. A state-  
ment by the child restraint manu-  
facturer of compliance with this  
standard can be found on the  
Infants and small children should  
never be held on the lap while the  
vehicle is in motion. During an  
accident they would be almost  
impossible to hold, and could be  
crushed between the adult and the  
dashboard.  
U.S.A. Models only:  
Since 1986 all U.S. child restraints  
comply with U.S. regulations without  
the use of a tether strap.  
Canada Models only:  
Infants and small children should  
never share a seat belt with another  
occupant. During an accident, they  
could be crushed between the  
occupant and seat belt.  
This vehicle can be equipped with  
tether anchorages for a top tether strap.  
Consult your authorized Mercedes-  
Benz dealer for installation of these  
anchorages.  
instruction label on the restraint and in  
the instruction manual provided with  
the restraint.  
When using any infant or child restraint  
system, be sure to carefully read and  
follow all manufacturer's instructions  
for installation and use.  
In compliance with Canadian Motor  
Vehicle Safety Standard 210.1, child  
restraint tether anchorage hardware is  
attached to the tool kit located in the  
trunk.  
54  
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1 Steering is unlocked.  
rear window defroster,  
power windows,  
(If necessary, move steering wheel  
slightly to allow the key to be  
turned clockwise to position 1.)  
2 Preglow and driving position.  
3 Starting position.  
power seats, front,  
heated seats, front,  
adjustable steering wheel.  
An audible warning will sound when  
the driver's door is opened with the key  
in steering lock position 1 or 0.  
Refer to Index for Starting and turning  
off the engine.  
Warning!  
With the engine at idle speed, the  
charging rate of the alternator (output)  
is limited.  
When leaving the vehicle always  
remove the key from the steering  
lock. Do not leave children  
unattended in the vehicle.  
Unsupervised use of vehicle  
equipment may cause serious  
personal injury.  
It is therefore recommended to turn off  
unnecessary electrical consumers while  
driving in stop-and-go traffic. This  
precaution helps to avoid draining of  
the battery.  
Steering Lock  
0 The key can be withdrawn in this  
position only. The steering is locked  
with the key removed from the  
steering lock. The key can be  
Notes:  
Unnecessary strain on the battery and  
charging system may be minimized by  
turning off the following power  
consumers, for example: Heated seats,  
rear window defroster. In addition, the  
automatic climate air volume control  
should be set to "MIN"  
removed only with the selector lever  
in position "P". After removing the  
key or with the key in steering lock  
position 0, the selector lever is  
locked in position "P".  
The following items can be operated  
with the key in steering lock position 1:  
wiper,  
headlamp flasher,  
lighter,  
glove box lamp,  
radio (also in position 0),  
sliding roof,  
55  
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Press switch past resistance point:  
Windshield washer, windshield  
wiper; headlamp cleaning system  
(only in exterior lamp switch  
positions  
or  
Canada only:  
when the engine  
also in position  
is running)  
7 Windshield wiper  
0 Wiper off  
I
Intermittent wiping  
II Normal wiper speed  
III Fast wiper speed  
When coming to a stop or driving  
slower than approx. 16 mph (25  
km/h), the wiper speed  
automatically switches to the next  
lower setting.  
To signal minor directional changes,  
such as changing lanes on a highway,  
move combination switch to the point  
of resistance only and hold it there.  
Combination Switch  
1 Low beam (exterior lamp  
switch position  
)
To operate the turn signals  
2 High beam (exterior lamp  
switch position  
In setting "I", the interval between  
wipes is lengthened.  
continuously, move the combination  
switch past the point of resistance (up  
or down). The switch is automatically  
canceled when the steering wheel is  
turned to a large enough degree.  
)
3 High beam flasher (high beam  
available independent of  
Upon accelerating again, the wiper  
speed returns to the previous setting.  
exterior lamp switch position)  
Note:  
6
Press switch briefly:  
One wipe without washer water  
(select only if window is wet)  
4 Turn signals, right  
The windshield washer reservoir,  
hoses and nozzles are automatically  
heated.  
5 Turn signals, left  
56  
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Windshield Washer Fluid Mixing  
Ratio  
Blocked Windshield Wiper  
Signaling Turns with Hazard  
Flasher in Use  
If the windshield wiper becomes  
blocked (for example, due to snow),  
switch off the wiper motor.  
For temperatures above freezing:  
For example, when the vehicle is being  
towed (key in steering lock turned to  
position 2):  
MB Windshield Washer  
Concentrate "S" and water  
For safety reasons before removing ice  
or snow, remove key from steering lock.  
Remove blockage.  
With hazard flasher on, activate  
combination switch for left or right  
turn signal - only the selected turn  
signal will blink.  
1 part "S" to 100 parts water (40 ml "S"  
to 1 gallon water).  
For temperature below freezing:  
Activate combination switch again  
(key in steering lock position 1).  
MB Windshield Washer Concentrate  
"S" and commercially available  
premixed windshield washer  
solvent/antifreeze  
Upon canceling the turn signal, the  
hazard flasher will operate again.  
Emergency Operation of  
Windshield Wiper  
Turn Signal Failure  
In case of windshield wiper malfunction  
in switch positions I or III, turn  
combination switch to wiper setting II.  
1 part "S" to 100 parts solvent (40 ml  
"S" to 1 gallon solvent).  
If one of the turn signals fails, the turn  
signal indicator system flashes and  
sounds at a faster than normal rate. In  
addition, the exterior lamp failure  
indicator will come on.  
Windshield Wiper Smears  
Have the system checked at your  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as  
soon as possible.  
If the windshield wiper smears the  
windshield, even during rain, activate  
the washer system as often as  
necessary. The fluid in the washer  
reservoir should be mixed in the correct  
ratio.  
57  
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Standing Lamps  
Off  
When the vehicle is parked on the  
street the standing lamps (right or left  
side parking lamps) can be turned on,  
making the vehicle more visible to  
passing vehicles.  
Parking lamps (also side  
marker lamps, taillamps,  
license plate lamps,  
instrument panel lamps)  
Canada only: When the  
engine is running, the low  
beam is additionally  
switched on.  
The standing lamps cannot be operated  
with the key in steering lock position 2.  
Note:  
Parking lamps plus low  
beam or high beam  
With the key removed and a front door  
open, an audible warning will sound if  
the vehicle's exterior lamps (except  
standing lamps) are not switched off.  
headlamps (combination  
switch pushed forward)  
Standing lamps, right  
(turn left one stop)  
Standing lamps, left  
(turn left two stops)  
Exterior Lamp Switch  
Canada only:  
Fog lamps will operate with the  
parking lamps and the low or high  
beam headlamps. Fog lamps should  
only be used in conjunction with low  
beam headlamps. Consult your state  
Motor Vehicle Regulations regarding  
allowable lamp operation.  
When the engine is running, the low  
beam (includes parking lamps, side  
marker lamps, tail lamps, license plate  
lamps and instrument panel lamps) are  
automatically switched on.  
Fog lamps  
(pull out one stop) with  
parking  
and/or headlamps on  
Note:  
Rear fog lamp (pull out to  
2nd detent) in addition to  
fog lamps. Indicator lamp  
in lamp switch comes on.  
Fog lamps are automatically switched  
off when the exterior lamp switch is  
turned to position O •  
For nighttime driving the exterior lamp  
switch should be turned to position  
to permit activation of the high beam  
headlamps  
58  
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Exterior rear view mirror, left  
Exterior rear view mirror, right  
The switch is located on the  
center console.  
Inside and Exterior Rear View  
Mirrors  
Exterior Rear View Mirrors  
Turn key in steering lock to position 2  
(with either front door open, the mirror  
can be operated with key removed or  
in steering lock position 0 or 1).  
Inside Rear View Mirror  
Turn key in steering lock to position 2  
(with either front door open, the mirrors  
can be operated with key removed or in  
steering lock position 0 or 1).  
The mirror is electrically adjustable.  
Antiglare night position: Tilt the mirror  
to the antiglare night position using the  
lever at its lower edge.  
Turn switch to position  
.
Turn switch to select the mirror to be  
adjusted.  
To adjust, move the switch forward,  
backward or to either side.  
Use your inside mirror to determine the  
size and distance of objects seen in the  
passenger side convex mirror.  
To adjust, move the switch forward,  
backward or to either side.  
59  
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Note:  
Exterior Rear View Mirror  
Multiple Images  
The exterior mirrors have electrically  
heated glass. The heater switches on  
automatically, depending on outside  
temperature.  
This vehicle is equipped with anti-  
fogging dual-pane side windows to  
provide extra insulation against heat,  
cold and noise. Because of the second  
pane of glass, under certain light and  
weather conditions a multiple image  
may become noticeable, especially  
when looking through the side  
windows at an outside rear view  
mirror.  
If an exterior mirror housing is forcibly  
pivoted from its normal position, it  
must be repositioned by applying firm  
pressure until it snaps into place.  
Warning!  
Exercise care when using the  
passenger-side mirror. The  
Storing Mirror Positions in  
Memory  
passenger-side exterior mirror is  
convex (outwardly curved surface  
for a wider field of view). Objects in  
mirror are closer than they appear.  
Check your inside rear view mirror  
or glance over your shoulder before  
changing lanes.  
Folding the mirrors in:  
The exterior and inside rear view  
mirror positions are stored in memory  
with the seat/head restraint/ steering  
column position and can be’ recalled  
when necessary, see Index.  
Turn switch to point rearward. Press  
switch rearward until the mirrors are  
folded in.  
Folding the mirrors out:  
Note:  
Turn switch to point rearward. Press  
switch forward until the mirrors are  
folded out.  
If the inside rear view mirror was  
adjusted separately, the originally  
stored position remains in memory. To  
recall position, press the desired  
position button.  
60  
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Sun Visors  
Illuminated Vanity Mirrors  
Front seats:  
Rear seats:  
Swing sun visors down to protect  
against sun glare.  
Touch the cover to lower the mirror.  
The lamp will switch on automatically.  
With the visor engaged in its inner  
mounting, the lamp can be switched on  
by opening the cover.  
If sunlight enters through a side  
window, disengage visor from inner  
mounting and pivot to the side. From  
this position, the visor can slide  
forward and backward on its shaft.  
Close the cover and the lamp will go  
out.  
61  
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2 Interior Lamps  
A
B
A Interior lamps switched off  
B Interior lamps switched on  
3 Rear Courtesy Lamps  
A
B
A Courtesy lamps switched off  
B Courtesy lamps switched on  
5 Reading Lamps, Rear  
Note:  
Interior Lighting  
The lamps are switched on and off  
individually with a switch in the  
respective lamp.  
The courtesy lamps cannot be  
switched off as long as a rear door  
is open.  
1 Interior Lamps (Door contact)  
A
B
Entrance Lamps, Exit Lamps  
4 Reading Lamps, Front  
A
The lamps are switched on and off by  
the door contact switches.  
A Interior lamps are switched on,  
and off delayed, when unlocking  
or locking the vehicle, or when  
opening either front door.  
However, there will be no delay  
when the key is in steering lock  
position 2.  
B
A Reading lamp switched off  
B Interior lamps switched off  
B Reading lamp switched on  
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Telephone Control Unit  
Compartment  
To open: Press button  
(2).  
Glove Box  
The glove box lid is equipped with a  
container for coins and small accessories.  
To open: Press button  
(4).  
Note:  
The storage compartments may be  
locked and unlocked by using the master  
key in lock (5).  
Storage Compartments in the  
Dashboard  
Storage Compartments in the Door  
Locking:  
Turn master key in lock (5) to the  
right and remove.  
1
Door pocket  
To open:  
1
Storage/eyeglasses  
compartment  
Unlocking:  
Turn master key back to vertical  
position.  
Fold down cover.  
2
Button for storage/  
eyeglasses compartment  
2
Compartment for  
compact umbrella.  
3 Glove box  
4 Button for glove box  
5 Lock  
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Lighter  
in center console, front  
in rear doors  
Turn key in steering lock to  
position 1 or 2.  
Ashtrays  
To remove ashtray from rear door: Hold  
left and right side of insert and pull up.  
By touching the top of the cover  
lightly, the ashtray opens  
automatically.  
Push in lighter (1); it will pop out  
automatically when hot.  
To install ashtray:  
Install insert into ashtray frame  
and push down to engage.  
To remove ashtray from center  
console:  
Push sliding knob (1) toward the  
right to eject the insert.  
Warning!  
Never touch the heating element or  
sides of the lighter, hold at knob  
only  
64  
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Glass Sliding Roof with Rear  
Pop-Up Feature  
An additional screen can be slid into  
the roof opening to guard against sun  
rays. When sliding the roof open, the  
screen will also retract.  
Warning!  
When closing the sliding roof, be  
sure that there is no danger of  
anyone being harmed by the closing  
procedure.  
Notes:  
Sliding Roof with Rear Pop-Up  
Feature  
Turn key in steering lock to position 1  
or 2 (with either front door open, the  
sliding/pop-up roof can be operated  
with key removed or in steering lock  
position 0).  
The sliding roof can be opened or  
closed manually should an electrical  
malfunction occur, refer to Emergency  
Operation in Index.  
1 to slide roof open  
2 to slide roof closed  
3 to raise roof at rear  
4 to lower roof at rear  
The switch is illuminated when the  
exterior lamps are switched on (except  
standing lamps).  
The sliding roof can also be closed  
with the key or infrared remote control  
while locking the vehicle doors (see  
Central Locking System in Index).  
65  
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Note:  
When closing window with switch  
pressed past resistance point, and  
upward movement of the window is  
blocked during the closing procedure,  
the window will stop during the last  
few inches before closure and open  
slightly.  
If inadvertent operation of the rear  
windows by switch (6) (for instance by  
children) is to be prevented, slide  
safety switch (5) to right, symbol  
becomes visible.  
in center console, front  
Power Windows  
Switches for:  
in rear doors  
Warning!  
When closing the windows, be sure  
that there is no danger of anyone  
being harmed by the closing  
procedure.  
Turn key in steering lock to  
position 1 or 2.  
Press switch in to resistance point:  
1 left, front  
to close  
to open  
2 left, rear  
The automatic interrupt will not  
operate if a window is being closed  
by pressing the switch to its  
3 right, front  
4 right, rear  
Release switch when window is in  
desired position.  
5 safety switch  
6 individual switches (rear doors)  
resistance point and holding it there.  
Press switch  
or  
past re-  
sistance point and release - window  
opens or closes completely.  
To interrupt procedure, briefly press  
or  
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The power windows can also be closed  
with the key or infrared remote control  
while locking the vehicle doors (see  
Central Locking System in Index).  
Note:  
The rear window defroster uses a large  
amount of power. To keep the battery  
drain to a minimum, turn off the  
defroster as soon as the window is  
clear.  
Warning!  
When leaving the vehicle, always  
remove the key from the steering  
lock. Do not leave children  
unattended in the vehicle.  
Unsupervised use of vehicle  
equipment can cause serious  
personal injury.  
The defroster is automatically turned  
off after a maximum of 20 minutes of  
operation.  
Heavy accumulation of snow and ice  
should be removed before activating  
the defroster.  
Note:  
Rear Window Defroster  
The switch is located in the center  
console.  
If several power consumers are turned  
on simultaneously, or the battery is  
only partially charged, it is possible  
that the defroster will automatically  
turn itself off. When this happens, the  
indicator lamp inside the switch starts  
blinking.  
If the side windows cannot be fully  
opened or closed automatically by  
pressing the button past the point of  
resistance (e.g. after a vehicle battery  
Turn key in steering lock to  
position 1 or 2.  
change), press down  
side of power  
window switch until the window is  
completely closed and hold for  
additional 2 seconds. Repeat procedure  
for each window.  
When activating the rear window  
defroster, the indicator lamp in the  
switch will come on.  
As soon as the battery has sufficient  
voltage, the defroster automatically  
turns itself back on.  
The automatic full opening and closing  
procedure of the windows should now  
be restored.  
67  
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Adjusting clock one minute ahead or  
back:  
Antenna  
The antenna extends when switching  
on the radio and/or telephone.  
Pull out adjustment knob, briefly  
turn to the right respectively left and  
release knob.  
Note:  
Adjusting clock more than one minute  
ahead or back: Pull out adjustment  
knob, turn to the right respectively left  
and hold until the desired time is set.  
Within the first 2 seconds, the minute  
hand advances 8 minutes and advances  
another 8 minutes every additional  
second thereafter.  
To retract the antenna (e.g. when  
entering a car wash) both radio and  
telephone must be switched off.  
Setting Clock  
1 Knob for setting clock  
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Driving  
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Drinking and Driving  
Warning!  
Driving Off  
Test the brakes briefly after driving off.  
Perform this procedure only when the  
road is clear of other traffic.  
Drinking and driving can be a very  
dangerous combination. Even a small  
amount of alcohol or drugs can affect  
your reflexes, perceptions and  
judgement.  
Warm up the engine smoothly. Do not  
place full load on the engine until the  
operating temperature has been  
reached.  
The possibility of a serious or even  
fatal accident is sharply increased  
when you drink and drive.  
When starting off on a slippery surface,  
do not allow one driving wheel to spin  
for an extended period.  
Please don't drink and drive or allow  
anyone to drive after drinking.  
Parking Brake  
Warning!  
To engage, firmly depress parking brake  
pedal. When the key is in steering lock  
position 2, the brake warning lamp in  
the instrument cluster should come on  
brightly.  
Keep driver's foot area clear at all  
times. Objects stored in this area  
may impair pedal movement.  
To release the parking brake, pull  
handle on instrument panel. The brake  
warning lamp in the instrument cluster  
should go out.  
A warning sounds, if you start to drive  
without having released the parking  
brake.  
Also see Brake Warning Lamp Test in  
Index.  
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Automatic Transmission  
the brake until ready to drive. The  
vehicle may otherwise start creeping  
when the selector lever is in drive or  
reverse position.  
Accelerator position  
The automatic transmission selects  
individual gears automatically,  
dependent upon  
Partial throttle = early up shifting  
= normal acceleration  
Warning!  
Full throttle = later up shifting =  
rapid acceleration  
• Selector lever position  
• Accelerator position  
• Vehicle speed  
It is dangerous to shift the selector  
lever out of "P" or "N" if the engine  
speed is higher than idle speed. If  
your foot is not on the brake pedal,  
the car could accelerate quickly  
forward or in reverse. You could lose  
control of the car and hit someone or  
something. Only shift info gear when  
the engine is idling normally and  
when your right foot is firmly on the  
brake pedal.  
Kick down (depressing the accelerator  
beyond full throttle) = downshifting to  
next lowest gear = maximum  
acceleration. Once the desired speed is  
attained, ease up on the accelerator -  
the transmission shifts up again  
Important!  
When parking the car and before  
working on the vehicle with the engine  
running, firmly depress the parking  
brake pedal and shift the selector lever  
into "P".  
Driving  
The selector lever is automatically  
locked while in position "P". To move  
the selector lever out of position "P",  
the service brake pedal must be firmly  
depressed before the shift lock will  
release.  
Shift selector lever to the desired driving  
position only when the engine is idling  
and the service brake is applied. Do not  
release  
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With the key removed, the selector  
lever is locked in position "P".  
3 Up shift to 3rd gear only. Suitable  
for moderately steep hills.  
R Reverse gear.  
2 Up shift to 2nd gear only. For  
driving in mountainous regions.  
Since the transmission does not  
shift higher than 2nd gear, this gear  
selection will allow use of the  
engine's braking power downhill.  
Shift to reverse gear only with the  
car stopped.  
N Neutral.  
No power is transmitted from the  
engine to the rear axle. When the  
brakes are released, the vehicle can  
be moved freely (pushed or towed).  
Do not engage "N" while driving  
except to coast when the vehicle is  
in danger of skidding (e.g. on icy  
roads, see Winter Driving  
B In this position, the engine's braking  
effect is utilized by shifting into 1st  
gear. Use this position while  
descending very steep or lengthy  
downgrades and only at speeds  
below 40 mph (60 km/h).  
Selector Lever Positions  
Instructions in Index).  
The automatic gear shifting  
process can be adapted to specific  
operating conditions using the  
selector lever.  
Important!  
Important!  
With selector lever in position "D" or  
"3", up shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear is  
delayed depending on vehicle speed  
and engine temperature. This allows  
the catalytic converter to heat up more  
quickly to operating temperatures.  
During the brief warm-up period this  
delayed up shift and increased engine  
noise might be perceived as a  
Coasting the vehicle, or driving for  
any other reason with selector lever  
in "N", can result in transmission  
damage that is not covered by the  
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.  
P Parking lock.  
The parking lock is an additional  
safeguard to the parking brake when  
parking the vehicle. Engage only  
with the car stopped.  
D The transmission automatically up  
shifts to 4th gear. Position "D"  
provides optimum driving  
Note:  
malfunction. However, neither the  
engine nor transmission are  
The key can be removed from the  
steering lock only with the selector  
lever in position "P".  
characteristics under all normal  
operating conditions.  
72  
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negatively affected by this mode of  
operation.  
To prevent the engine from laboring at  
low RPMs, do not allow the engine  
speed to drop too low on uphill  
gradients.  
Stopping  
For brief stops, e.g. at traffic lights,  
leave the transmission in gear and hold  
vehicle with the service brake.  
The delayed up shift is effective with  
vehicle speeds below 31 mph (50  
km/h) at partial throttle and engine  
temperatures below 95°F (35°C).  
Depending on the degree of the incline,  
shift selector lever to a lower gear early  
enough to maintain engine RPM within  
the best torque range.  
For longer stops with the engine idling,  
shift into "N" or "P".  
Do not exceed the vehicle speed limits  
for individual gear selections, which  
are indicated by marks (I, II, III etc.) on  
the circumference of the speedometer.  
When stopping the car on an uphill  
incline, do not hold it with the  
accelerator, use the brake. This avoids  
unnecessary transmission heat build up.  
Maneuvering  
To maneuver in tight areas, e.g. when  
pulling into parking space, control the  
car speed by gradually releasing the  
brakes. Accelerate gently and never  
abruptly step on the accelerator.  
Do not brake the vehicle by  
downshifting to a lower gear (for  
example from "D" to "3") unless the  
speedometer needle is below the speed  
limit mark of that particular gear range.  
Over revving could result in serious  
damage to the engine.  
Warning!  
Getting out of your car with the  
selector lever not fully engaged in  
position "P" is dangerous. When  
parked on an incline, position "P"  
alone may not prevent your vehicle  
from moving, possibly hitting people  
or objects.  
To rock a car out of soft ground (mud  
or snow), alternately shift from forward  
to reverse, while applying slight partial  
throttle.  
Warning!  
On slippery road surfaces, never  
downshift in order to obtain braking  
action. This could result in rear  
wheel slip and reduced vehicle  
control. Your vehicle's ABS will not  
prevent this type of loss of control  
This applies particularly for position  
"B".  
Rocking a car free in this manner may  
cause the ABS warning lamp to come  
on. Turn off and restart the engine to  
clear the malfunction indication.  
Always set the parking brake in  
addition to shifting to position "P".  
When parked on an incline, also turn  
downhill side of front wheel against  
curb  
73  
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Rear Fender Indicators  
Normally the vehicle is accelerated to  
the desired speed with the accelerator.  
When the reverse gear is selected, the  
rear fender indicators will extend  
upward from the rear corners of the  
fenders.  
Speed is set by briefly pushing the  
lever to position 1 or 2. The accelerator  
can be released.  
The rear fender indicators retract  
delayed when shifting out of reverse.  
They retract immediately when turning  
key in steering lock to position 0.  
The speed can be increased (e.g. for  
passing) by using the accelerator. As  
soon as the accelerator is released, the  
previously set speed will be resumed  
automatically.  
If a set speed is to be increased or  
decreased slightly, e.g. to adapt to the  
traffic flow, hold lever in position 1 or  
2 until the desired speed is reached, or  
briefly tip the control lever in the  
appropriate direction for increases or  
decreases in 0.6 mph (1 km/h)  
Cruise Control  
Any given speed above approximately  
25 mph (40 km/h) can be maintained  
with the cruise control by operating the  
lever.  
increments. When the lever is released,  
the newly set speed remains.  
1
Accelerate and set:  
Lift lever briefly to set speed. Hold  
lever up to accelerate.  
2
Decelerate and set:  
Depress lever briefly to set speed.  
Hold lever down to decelerate.  
74  
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3 Canceling  
Note:  
Warning!  
To cancel the cruise control, briefly  
push lever to position 3.  
If the engine does not brake the vehicle  
sufficiently while driving on a  
Only use the cruise control if the  
traffic and weather conditions make  
it advisable to travel at a steady  
speed.  
downgrade, the speed you set on the  
cruise control may be exceeded and  
you may have to step on the brake  
pedal to slow down. As soon as the  
grade eases, the cruise controlled speed  
will again -be maintained as long as the  
brakes were not previously applied, or  
the lever may be used to resume the  
previously set speed if the brakes were  
applied.  
When you step on the brake or the  
vehicle speed drops below approx.  
25 mph (40 km/h), for example  
when driving upgrade, the cruise  
control will be canceled.  
The use of cruise control can be  
dangerous on winding roads or in  
heavy traffic because conditions  
do not allow safe driving at a  
steady speed.  
If the cruise control cancels by itself  
and remains inoperative until the  
engine is restarted, have the system  
checked at your authorized  
Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as  
possible.  
The use of cruise control can be  
dangerous on slippery roads.  
Rapid changes in tire adhesion  
can result in wheel spin and loss  
of control.  
Caution!  
When driving with the cruise control,  
the transmission selector lever must not  
be shifted to position "N" as otherwise  
the engine will overrev.  
4 Resume  
The "Resume" function should only  
be operated if the driver is fully  
aware of the previously set speed  
and wishes to resume this particular  
preset speed.  
If the lever is briefly pushed to  
position 4 when driving at a speed  
exceeding approx. 25 mph (40 km/h),  
the vehicle resumes the speed which  
was set prior to the cancellation of the  
cruise control. The last memorized  
speed is canceled when the key in the  
steering lock 's turned to position  
1 or 0  
75  
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Charge Indicator Lamp  
Oil Pressure Gauge with Oil  
Pressure Warning Lamp  
There is no need for concern should the  
oil pressure warning lamp light up  
briefly, (for example, in sharp turns or  
hard braking) provided the lamp goes  
out immediately. We recommend you  
to drive to the nearest service station  
where the engine oil should be topped  
to the "full" mark on the dipstick with  
an approved oil.  
Should the charge indicator lamp fail to  
come on prior to starting when the key  
is in steering lock position 2 or should  
it fail to go out after starting or come  
while the engine is running, this  
indicates a fault which must be repaired  
at an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer  
immediately.  
With the key in steering lock position  
2, the oil pressure warning lamp comes  
on and should go out when the engine  
is running.  
The oil pressure at idle speed may  
drop if the engine is at operating  
temperature. This will not jeopardize  
the engine's operational reliability.  
Pressure must, however, rise  
If the charge indicator lamp comes on  
while the engine is running, this may  
indicate that the poly-V-belt has broken.  
Should this condition occur, the poly-V-  
belt must be replaced before continuing  
to operate the vehicle. Otherwise, the  
engine will overheat due to an  
immediately upon acceleration.  
Note:  
If the oil pressure warning lamp does  
not go out after starting the engine or  
comes on while driving and the oil  
pressure gauge needle drops to "0",  
then damage to the engine may occur  
with continued operation. Turn off  
engine immediately and contact an  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. Do  
not operate the car until the condition  
is repaired.  
inoperative water pump which may  
result in damage to the engine.  
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Low Engine Oil Level Warning  
Lamp  
If no oil leaks are noted and there is no  
loss in engine oil pressure, continue to  
drive to the nearest service station  
where the engine oil should be topped  
to the "full" mark on the dipstick with  
an approved oil.  
Engine Oil Consumption  
Engine oil consumption checks should  
only be made after the break-in period.  
During the break-in period, higher oil  
consumption may be noticed and is  
normal. Frequent driving at high  
engine speeds results in increased  
consumption.  
With the key in steering lock position  
2, the oil level warning lamp comes on  
and should go out when the engine is  
running.  
In addition to the warning lamp, the  
engine oil level should be periodically  
checked with the dipstick, for example  
during a fuel stop, or before a long trip.  
See Index.  
If the warning lamp comes on with the  
engine running and at operating  
temperature, the engine oil level has  
dropped to approximately the minimum  
mark on the dipstick.  
Fuel Consumption Gauge  
While driving, current fuel  
consumption is indicated in miles per  
gallon (mpg), or in Canada liters per  
100 kilometers (1/100 km).  
When this occurs, the warning lamp  
will first come on intermittently and  
then stay on if the oil level drops  
further.  
With the engine switched off, the  
needle reads "0".  
Due to system design, maximum  
consumption is indicated at engine idle  
speed.  
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Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp  
Warning!  
Warning!  
With the key in steering lock position  
2, the fuel reserve warning lamps come  
on and should go out when the engine  
is running.  
The outside temperature indicator is  
not designed to serve as an Ice-  
Warning Device and is therefore un-  
suitable for that purpose. Indicated  
temperatures just above the freezing  
point do not guarantee that the road  
surface is free of ice.  
Driving when your engine is badly  
overheated can cause some fluids  
which may have leaked into the  
engine compartment to catch fire.  
You could be seriously burned.  
Turn off the engine and get out of  
the car until it cools down.  
If the warning lamps do not go out  
after starting the engine or if they come  
on while driving, it indicates that the  
fuel level is down to the reserve  
Coolant Temperature Gauge  
Steam from an overheated engine  
can cause serious burns and can  
occur just by opening the engine  
hood. Stay away from the engine  
if you see or hear steam coming  
from it. Turn off the engine and  
do not stand near the car until it  
cools down.  
quantity of approx. 3.3 gal (12.5 liters).  
If the antifreeze mixture is effective to  
-22°F (-30°C), the boiling point of the  
coolant in the pressurized cooling  
system of your vehicle is approx.  
266°F (130°C).  
Outside Temperature Indicator  
The temperature sensor is located in  
the front bumper area. Due to its  
location, the sensor can be affected by  
road or engine heat during idling or  
slow driving. This means that the  
accuracy of the displayed temperature  
can only be verified by comparison to a  
thermometer placed next to the sensor,  
not by comparison to external displays  
(e.g. bank signs etc.).  
During severe operating conditions  
and stop-and-go city traffic, the  
coolant temperature may rise close to  
the red marking.  
The engine should not be operated with  
the coolant temperature in the red zone.  
Adaptation to ambient temperature  
takes place in steps and depends on the  
prevailing driving conditions (stop-  
and-go or moderate, constant driving)  
and amount of temperature change.  
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Low Engine Coolant Level  
Warning Lamp  
Note:  
Low Windshield and Headlamp  
Washer System Fluid Level  
Warning Lamp  
Do not drive without coolant in the  
cooling system. The engine will  
overheat causing major engine damage.  
With the key in steering lock position  
2, the warning lamp comes on and goes  
out when the engine is running.  
With the key in steering lock position  
2, the warning lamp comes on and  
goes out when the engine is running.  
Monitor the coolant temperature gauge  
while driving.  
If the warning lamp does not go out  
after starting the engine, or if it comes  
on while driving, then the coolant level  
has dropped below the required level.  
If no leaks are noticeable and the  
engine temperature does not increase,  
continue to drive to the nearest service  
station and have coolant added to the  
coolant system. See Index.  
If the warning lamp comes on with the  
engine running, the level of the  
reservoir has dropped to approx. 1/4 of  
the total volume. The reservoir should  
be refilled with MB Windshield  
Washer Concentrate "S" and water (or  
commercially available premixed  
windshield washer solvent/antifreeze,  
depending on ambient temperature -  
see Index) at the next opportunity. The  
reservoir for the windshield and  
headlamp washer system is located in  
the engine compartment next to the  
radiator.  
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 can be seriously burned.  
In cases of major or frequent minor  
coolant loss, have the cooling system  
checked at your authorized Mercedes-  
Benz dealer as soon as possible.  
The fluid level can be checked visually  
at the sight glass located next to the  
reservoir filler cap  
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Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator  
Lamp  
Seat Belt Warning Lamp  
Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp  
With the key in steering lock position  
2, the warning lamp comes on and an  
audible warning sounds for a short time  
if the driver's seat belt is not fastened.  
The brake pad wear indicator lamp in  
the instrument cluster comes on when  
the key in the steering lock is turned to  
position 2 and goes out when the  
engine is running.  
With the key in steering lock position  
2, a dim indicator lamp comes on, and  
goes out when the engine is running.  
With the key in steering lock position 2  
or with the engine running, a bright  
illumination of this lamp indicates an  
exterior lamp failure.  
After starting the engine, the warning  
lamp blinks for a brief period to remind  
the driver and passengers to fasten seat  
belts before driving off.  
If the indicator lamp lights up during  
braking, this indicates that the front  
wheel brake pads are worn down.  
If an exterior lamp fails, the indicator  
lamp will come on only when that lamp  
is switched on.  
Have the brake system checked at your  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as  
soon as possible.  
If a brake or turn signal lamp fails, the  
lamp failure indicator will come on  
when applying the brake or actuating  
the turn signal and stay on until the  
engine is turned off.  
Note:  
The indicator lamp will also come on if  
an incorrect bulb is installed.  
If additional lighting equipment is  
installed (e.g. auxiliary headlamps etc.)  
be certain to connect into the fuse  
before the failure indicator monitoring  
unit in order to avoid damaging the  
system.  
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Brake Warning Lamp  
Warning!  
When the minimum mark on the  
reservoir is reached, have the brake  
system checked for brake pad thickness  
and leaks.  
The brake warning lamp will come on  
with the key in steering lock position 2  
and should go out when the engine is  
running.  
Driving with the brake warning  
lamp on can result in an accident.  
Have your brake system checked  
immediately if the brake warning  
lamp stays on. Don't 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.  
To test the brake warning lamp, turn  
key in steering lock to position 2. The  
brake warning lamp comes on, and  
should go out when the engine is  
running.  
The brake warning lamp will come on:  
when there is insufficient brake  
fluid in the reservoir (engine  
running and parking brake  
released)  
when the parking brake is set  
(engine running).  
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Antilock Brake System (ABS)  
The ABS warning lamp in the  
instrument cluster comes on with the  
key in steering lock position 2 and  
should go out when the engine is  
running.  
Warning!  
The ABS prevents the wheels from  
locking up above a vehicle speed of  
approximately 2 mph (3 km/h)  
Even the ABS cannot prevent the  
natural laws of physics from acting  
on the vehicle. The ABS cannot  
independent of road surface conditions.  
It is necessary, however, that the  
vehicle speed reaches at least 5 mph  
(8 km/h) before commencing to brake.  
prevent accidents, including those  
resulting from excessive speed in  
turns, following another vehicle too  
closely, or aquaplaning. Only a safe,  
attentive, and skillful driver can  
prevent accidents. The capabilities of  
an ABS equipped car must never be  
exploited in a reckless or dangerous  
manner which could jeopardize the  
user's safety or the safety of others.  
If the charging voltage falls below 10  
volts, the warning lamp comes on and  
the ABS is switched off. When the  
voltage is above this value again, the  
warning lamp should go out and the  
ABS will be operational.  
At the instant one of the wheels is  
about to lock up, a slight pulsation can  
be felt in the brake pedal, indicating  
that the ABS is in the regulating mode.  
If the ABS warning lamp does not go  
out or comes on while driving, it  
indicates that the ABS has detected a  
malfunction and has switched off. In  
this case, the brake system functions in  
the usual manner, but without antilock  
assistance.  
On slippery road surfaces, the ABS  
will respond even with only slight  
brake pedal pressure. The pulsating  
brake pedal can be an indication of  
hazardous road conditions and  
functions as a reminder to take extra  
care while driving.  
Have the system checked at your  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as  
soon as possible.  
82  
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Acceleration Slip Control (ASR)  
The mode is canceled in memory  
above 37 mph (60 km/h) and the  
indicator lamp in the switch goes out,  
To switch off: press lower half of  
switch (the indicator lamp in the switch  
goes out).  
The acceleration slip control will engage  
at all vehicle speeds, if one or both drive  
wheels begin to lose traction and spin.  
While engaged, the yellow function  
indicator in the speedometer lights up.  
Notes:  
With the acceleration slip control engaged,  
the brake is applied to the spinning drive  
wheel until it regains sufficient traction.  
If both drive wheels lose traction and spin,  
the brake is applied to both drive wheels  
and simultaneously, engine torque is  
limited.  
With the key in steering lock position  
2, the yellow function indicator lamp  
and the yellow ASR warning lamp in  
the instrument cluster come on. They  
must go out when the engine is  
running.  
Snow chain switch  
As traction on the road surface increases,  
the allowable engine torque also increases  
again and the brake is no longer applied to  
drive wheels.  
If the ASR warning lamp comes on  
with the engine running, a malfunction  
has been detected. Pressing the  
accelerator pedal will require greater  
effort. Only 2/3 of engine output is  
available.  
Driving with Snow Chains  
When driving with snow chains,  
press the upper half of the snow chain  
switch, located on the instrument  
panel (the indicator lamp in the  
switch comes on).  
Have the acceleration slip control  
checked at your authorized Mercedes-  
Benz dealer as soon as possible.  
This mode is effective at speeds up to  
25 mph (40 km/h). It remains stored  
in memory up to 37 mph (60 km/h)  
and automatically engages again  
when the vehicle speed drops below  
25 mph (40 km/).  
83  
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Driving the vehicle with different  
size tires will cause the wheels to rotate  
at different speeds, therefore the  
acceleration slip control will activate  
(yellow ASR function indicator lamp in  
instrument cluster comes on). For this  
reason, all wheels, including the spare  
wheel, must have the same tire size.  
Adaptive Damping System  
(ADS)  
Depending upon road surface  
conditions, load, driving style, ADS  
will automatically adjust the optimal  
ride firmness.  
The indicator lamp comes on with the  
key in steering lock position 2 and goes  
out when the engine is running.  
In winter operation, the maximum  
effectiveness of the acceleration slip  
control is only achieved with M + S  
radial tires.  
If the indicator lamp stays on after the  
engine is running or comes on while  
driving, then the system has  
The brake pad wear warning lamp  
indicates brake pad wear for the  
front as well as the rear brakes.  
detected a malfunction.  
Adaptive Damping System  
Adjustment  
We recommend that you visit an  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as  
soon as possible to have the system  
checked-out.  
Caution!  
The switch is located in the center  
console.  
If the vehicle is towed with the front  
axle raised (see Towing the vehicle in  
Index), the key must not be in steering  
lock position 2. Otherwise, the  
acceleration slip control will  
immediately be engaged and will apply  
the rear wheel brakes.  
1 Firm damping program. This setting  
should be used for sporty driving.  
During the setting for sporty driving  
the indicator lamp in the switch  
lights up.  
Note:  
If the battery was disconnected, the  
indicator lamp will only go out after  
the engine is started and the steering  
wheel is turned from full left - to- full  
right lock and returned to the center  
position.  
2 Soft damping program. This setting  
should be used for regular driving.  
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Emission Control  
Warning!  
On-Board Diagnostic System  
(California models only)  
Certain systems of the engine serve to  
keep the toxic components of the  
exhaust gases within permissible limits  
required by law.  
Inhalation of exhaust gas is  
hazardous to your health. All  
exhaust gas contains carbon  
monoxide, and inhaling it can cause  
unconsciousness and lead to death.  
The LH control unit monitors  
emission control components that  
either provide input signals to or  
receive output signals from the control  
unit. Malfunctions resulting from  
interruptions or failure of any of these  
components are indicated by the  
"CHECK ENGINE" indicator lamp  
in the instrument cluster and are  
simultaneously stored in the LH control  
unit.  
These systems, of course, will function  
properly only when maintained strictly  
according to factory specifications.  
Any adjustments on the engine should,  
therefore, be carried out only by  
qualified Mercedes-Benz technicians.  
Engine adjustments should not be  
altered in any way. Moreover, the  
specified service and maintenance jobs  
must be carried out regularly according  
to Mercedes-Benz servicing  
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.  
If the "CHECK ENGINE" indicator  
lamp comes on, have the system  
checked at your authorized  
Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as  
possible.  
requirements. For details refer to the  
Maintenance Booklet.  
An on-board test connection with  
pushbutton and light emitting diode  
(LED) is located on the engine  
compartment firewall, allowing the  
accurate identification of system  
malfunctions.  
85  
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Traveling Abroad  
• Additive for the windshield washer  
and headlamp cleaning system: Add  
MB Concentrate "S" to a premixed  
windshield washer solvent/  
Snow Chains  
Abroad, there is a widely-spread  
Use only snow chains that are tested  
and recommended by Mercedes-Benz.  
Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer  
will be glad to advise you on this  
subject.  
Mercedes-Benz service network at your  
disposal. If you plan to travel into areas  
which are not listed in the index of  
your dealer directory, you should  
request pertinent information from your  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.  
antifreeze which is formulated for  
below freezing temperatures (see  
Index).  
• Test battery: Battery capacity drops  
with decreasing ambient  
Chains should only be used on the rear  
wheels. Follow the manufacturer's  
mounting instructions.  
Winter Driving  
temperature. A well charged battery  
ensures that the engine can always  
be started, even at low ambient  
temperatures.  
Have your car winterized at your  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer  
before the onset of winter.  
After driving a short distance, retighten  
the mounted chains.  
• Tires: We recommend M + S radial  
tires on all four wheels for the  
Snow chains should only be driven on  
snow covered roads at speeds not to  
exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). Remove  
chains as soon as possible when driving  
on roads without snow.  
• Change the engine oil if the engine  
contains an oil which is not  
winter season. Observe permissible  
maximum speed for M + S radial  
tires and the legal speed limit.  
approved for winter operation. For  
viscosity (SAE class) and filling  
quantity, see Capacities: Fuels,  
Coolants, Lubricants etc. in Index.  
Note:  
For tips on driving on slippery winter  
roads, refer to Index.  
• Check engine coolant anticorrosion/  
antifreeze concentration.  
In winter operation, the maximum  
effectiveness of the acceleration slip  
control is only achieved with M + S  
radial tires.  
When driving with snow chains, press  
the snow chain switch, refer  
to Index.  
86  
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Practical Hints  
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Warning!  
To help prevent personal injury; stay  
clear of moving parts when the hood is  
open and the engine is running. Be  
sure the hood is properly closed  
before driving.  
The engine is equipped with a  
transistorized ignition system. Because  
of the high voltage it is dangerous to  
touch any components (ignition coil,  
distributor, spark plug sockets,  
ignition cables, diagnostic socket) of  
the ignition system  
Hood  
Pull handle (2) completely out of  
radiator grill and open hood (do not  
pull up on handle).  
• with the engine running,  
• while starting the engine,  
To open:  
To unlock the hood, pull release lever  
(1) under the driver's side of the  
instrument panel. At the same time  
handle (2) will extend out of the  
radiator grill (it may be necessary to lift  
the hood up slightly).  
To close:  
• if the ignition is "on" and the  
engine is turned manually.  
Lower hood and let it drop into lock  
from a height of approx. 1 ft (30 cm),  
assisting with flat hands placed only on  
edges of hood (3).  
Caution!  
Caution!  
To avoid damage to the windshield  
wipers or hood, open the hood only  
with wipers in the parked position.  
If hood is not fully closed, repeat  
closing procedure.  
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Warning!  
Adding Coolant  
Use extreme caution when opening  
If coolant has to be added, a 50/50  
mixture of water and MB anticorrosion/  
antifreeze should be added.  
the hood if there are any signs of  
steam or coolant leaking from the  
cooling system.  
The drain plugs for the cooling system  
are located on the right side of the  
engine block and at the bottom of the  
radiator.  
Do not remove pressure cap on  
coolant reservoir if engine  
temperature is above 194°F  
(90°C). Allow engine to cool-down  
before removing cap. The coolant  
reservoir contains hot fluid and is  
under pressure.  
Anticorrosion/antifreeze, see  
Coolants in Index.  
Using a rag, turn cap to first  
notch to relieve excess pressure. If  
opened immediately, scalding hot  
fluid and steam will be blown out  
under pressure, possibly causing  
personal injury.  
Checking Coolant Level  
To check the coolant level, the vehicle  
must be parked on level ground and the  
engine stopped.  
Check coolant level only when coolant  
is cold.  
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 can be seriously  
burned  
The coolant should reach the marking  
inside the filler neck  
89  
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The best time to check the engine oil  
level is when the oil is warm, such as  
during a fuel stop.  
Add oil, if needed, only  
to the upper mark  
(max).  
Do not overfill engine.  
With the vehicle on level ground, stop  
the engine and wait a few minutes for  
the oil to drain back to the oil pan.  
Wipe the dipstick clean before  
checking.  
For viscosity and capacity, see  
Capacities: Fuels, Coolants,  
Lubricants etc. in Index.  
For low engine oil level warning lamp,  
see Index.  
Checking Engine Oil Level  
1 Oil dipstick  
2 Oil filler cap  
90  
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When noticing fluid loss or gear shifting  
malfunctions, we recommend to have  
your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer  
check the transmission fluid level.  
The transmission fluid level should only  
be checked with the engine idling,  
parking brake engaged and selector lever  
in position "P". The vehicle must be  
parked on level ground.  
The fluid level in the transmission is  
dependent upon its temperature. The  
maximum and minimum fluid level  
marks on the dipstick are applicable  
references only if the transmission fluid  
level has reached its normal operating  
temperature of 176° F (80°C).  
Important!  
Prior to the check, allow engine to idle  
for approx. 1 to 2 minutes.  
If the transmission fluid cools down to  
68 - 86° F (20 - 30°C), which is the  
normal shop temperature range, then  
the maximum fluid level will be  
approximately 0.4 in (10 mm) below  
the minimum mark on the dipstick. We  
stress this point because a fluid change  
is normally performed when the  
transmission fluid has cooled down to  
shop temperature.  
Measure fluid level with the dipstick  
completely inserted and the locking lever  
released (1).  
Checking Automatic Transmission  
Fluid Level  
Extreme cleanliness must be observed!  
To wipe the dipstick, use a clean, lint-  
free cloth.  
Dipstick locking lever  
1 Release  
2 Engage  
To fill the transmission with fluid, pour it  
through a fine-mesh filter into the  
dipstick opening. Even the slightest  
impurity may cause operational troubles.  
The fluid level must not exceed the  
dipstick maximum mark with the fluid  
at operating temperature. Drain or  
siphon off excess fluid, if required.  
Then push dipstick all the way in and  
swing locking lever  
downwards (2).  
91  
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Trunk Lamp  
Spare Wheel, Lug Wrench  
First Aid Kit  
1
Switching off  
1 Trunk floor  
2 Strap  
1
Opening lid  
Switch off (1) trunk lamp with car key  
(at the same time the trunk lid handle  
will retract). This prevents the vehicle  
battery from being discharged if the  
trunk is to remain open for along period  
of time.  
3 Luggage bowl  
4 Lug wrench  
The first aid kit is stored in the shelf  
below the rear window.  
Roll back the floor mat. Lift the trunk  
floor (1) and engage strap (2) in the  
eyelet on the edge of the trunk lid.  
To close the trunk lid by its handle,  
first switch trunk lamp on.  
To remove the spare tire, turn luggage  
bowl (3) to the left and remove.  
When the trunk lid is closed, the switch  
will reset and turn on the lamp the next  
time the lid is opened.  
92  
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Warning!  
The jack is designed exclusively for  
jacking up the vehicle at the jack  
tubes built into either side of the  
vehicle. Use the jack only to lift the  
vehicle during a wheel change. Never  
get beneath the vehicle while it is  
supported by the jack. Keep hands  
and feet away from the area under  
the lifted vehicle. Always firmly set  
parking brake and block wheels  
before raising vehicle with jack.  
Do not disengage parking brake  
while the vehicle is raised. Be certain  
that the jack is always vertical when  
in use, especially on hills. Always try  
to use the jack on level surface. Be  
sure that the jack arm is fully  
inserted in the jack tube. Lower the  
vehicle onto sufficient capacity jack  
stands before working under the  
vehicle.  
Vehicle Jack  
Vehicle Tools, Storage Compartment  
below Tool Box  
See illustration for proper storage of  
jack.  
1
2
Closing  
Before storing the jack on the felt in the  
spare wheel well, the jack arm (1) must  
be lowered almost to the base (2) of the  
jack.  
Opening (to remove tool box,  
to access storage compartment)  
Opening (to open tool box)  
3
To insert the tool box:  
Position rear end of tool box, press  
down its front end and slide handle to  
position (1).  
93  
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Wheels  
We recommend that you break in new  
tires for approx. 60 miles (100 km) at  
moderate speed. It is imperative that the  
wheel mounting bolts be retightened  
after approx. 60-300 miles (100-500  
km).  
Rotating Wheels  
Replace rims or tires with the same  
designation, manufacturer and type as  
shown on the original part. See your  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for  
further information.  
The wheels can be rotated according to  
the degree of tire wear while retaining  
the same direction of travel.  
Rotating, however, should be carried  
out at a mileage of 3000 -6000 miles  
(5000 - 10 000 km), before the  
characteristic tire wear pattern  
(shoulder wear on front wheels and  
tread center wear on rear wheels)  
becomes visible, as otherwise the  
driving properties deteriorate.  
On new vehicles retightening is carried  
out during the 1st inspection.  
Retightening is also necessary  
whenever wheels are fitted, e.g. when  
the spare wheel is used for the first  
time or when a set of wheels with M +  
S tires is installed.  
Warning!  
Do not mix different tire construction  
types (i.e. radial, bias, and bias-belted)  
on your car because handling may be  
adversely affected and may result in  
loss of control.  
Tightening torque: 110 ft.lb. (150 Nm).  
For rim and tire specifications, refer to  
"Technical Data".  
Note:  
See your authorized Mercedes-Benz  
dealer for information on tested and  
recommended rims and tires for  
summer and winter operation. They  
can also offer advice concerning tire  
service and purchase.  
Thoroughly clean the inner side of  
the wheels any time you rotate the  
wheels or wash the vehicle underside.  
The use of retread tires is not  
recommended. Retread tires may  
adversely affect the handling  
characteristics and safety of the  
vehicle.  
Warning!  
Worn, old tires can cause accidents.  
If the tire tread is badly worn, or if  
the tires have sustained damage,  
replace them.  
Tire Replacement  
Front tires should be replaced in sets.  
Furthermore - in the event of tire  
replacement - the spare wheel, if  
possible, should be used on the rear  
axle. Rims and tires must be of the  
same size and type. For dimensions,  
see "Technical Data".  
When replacing rims, use only  
genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts  
(identified by Mercedes star)  
specified for the particular rim type.  
Failure to do so can result in the bolts  
loosening and possibly an accident.  
Dented or bent rims can cause tire  
pressure loss and damage to the tire  
beads. For this reason, check rims for  
damage at regular intervals.  
94  
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The rim flanges must be checked for  
wear before a tire is mounted. Remove  
burrs, if any.  
Changing Wheels  
Move vehicle to a level area which is a  
safe distance from the roadway.  
Warning!  
1. Set parking brake and turn on  
The jack is designed exclusively for  
jacking up the vehicle at the jack  
tubes built into either side of the  
vehicle. Use the jack only to lift the  
vehicle during a wheel change. Never  
get beneath the vehicle while it is  
supported by the jack. Keep hands  
and feet away from the area under  
the lifted vehicle. Always firmly set  
parking brake and block wheels  
before raising vehicle with jack.  
hazard warning flasher.  
2. Move selector lever to position "P"  
and turn off engine.  
3. Prevent vehicle from rolling away  
by blocking wheels with - wheel  
chocks (not supplied with vehicle)  
or sizable wood block or stone.  
When changing a wheel on a hill,  
place chocks on the downhill side  
blocking both wheels of the other  
axle. On a level road, place one  
chock in front of and one behind  
the wheel that is diagonally  
4
Unfold wrench, loosen but do not  
yet remove the wheel bolts.  
Do not disengage parking brake while  
the vehicle is raised. Be certain that  
the jack is always vertical when in use,  
especially on hills. Always try to use  
the jack on level surface. Be sure that  
the jack arm is fully inserted in the  
jack tube. Lower the vehicle onto  
sufficient capacity jack stands before  
working under the vehicle.  
opposite to the wheel being  
changed.  
95  
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5 Remove the protective cover from  
the jack support tube opening by  
inserting a screwdriver in the  
opening and prying it out. The tube  
openings are located directly  
behind the front wheel housings  
and in front of the rear wheel  
housings.  
6. Insert jack arm fully into the  
tube hole up to the stop. Place  
jack on firm ground. Position  
the jack so that it is always  
vertical (plumb-line) as seen  
from the side (see arrow), even  
if the vehicle is parked on an  
incline.  
8
9
Unscrew wheel bolts completely.  
Keep bolt threads protected from  
dirt and sand. While removing the  
last bolt, hold wheel against hub  
to avoid paint damage on rim,  
Remove wheel.  
10 Screw the alignment bolt (1)  
supplied in the tool kit into the  
upper-most threaded hole  
7. Jack up the vehicle until the  
wheel is clear of the ground.  
Never start engine while vehicle  
is raised.  
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11 Install spare wheel on wheel hub.  
Insert wheel bolts and tighten them  
slightly.  
13 Unfold wrench and tighten the five  
bolts evenly, following the sequence  
illustrated above, until all bolts are  
tight. Observe a tightening torque of  
110 ft. lb. (150 Nm).  
Before storing the jack, the jack arm  
must be lowered almost to the base of  
the jack.  
To avoid paint damage, place wheel  
flat against hub and hold it there  
while installing first wheel bolt.  
Warning!  
14 Correct tire pressure.  
Incorrect mounting bolts or  
improperly tightened mounting bolts  
can cause the wheel to come off. This  
could cause an accident. Be sure to  
use the correct mounting bolts.  
Unscrew the alignment bolt to install  
the last wheel bolt.  
Important!  
When installing new wheels the  
mounting bolts must be retightened  
after approx. 60 - 300 miles (100 to 500  
km).  
12 Lower car. Remove jack and  
insert jack tube cover.  
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Tire Inflation Pressure  
Increased inflation pressures for heavy  
loads produce favorable handling  
characteristics with lighter loads and  
are perfectly permissible. The ride of  
the vehicle, however, will become  
somewhat harder.  
Warning!  
A table (see fuel filler flap) lists the tire  
inflation pressures specified for  
summer and winter tires as well as for  
the varying operating conditions.  
Do not over inflate tires. Over  
inflating tires can result in sudden  
deflation (blowout) because they are  
more likely to become punctured or  
damaged by road debris, potholes  
etc.. Follow recommended inflation  
pressures.  
Important!  
Tire temperature and pressure increase  
with the vehicle speed. Tire pressure  
should therefore only be corrected on  
cold tires. Correct tire pressure in warm  
tires only if pressure has dropped be-  
low the pressure listed in the table and  
the respective operating conditions are  
taken into consideration.  
Tire pressure changes by approx. 1.5  
psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air  
temperature change. Keep this in mind  
when checking tire pressure inside a  
garage - especially in the winter.  
Do not overload the tires by  
exceeding the specified vehicle  
capacity weight (as indicated by the  
label on the driver's door latch post).  
Overloading the tires can overheat  
them, possibly causing a blowout.  
Example:  
An under inflated tire due to a slow  
leak (e.g. due to a nail in the tire) may  
cause damage such as tread separation,  
bulging etc. Regular tire pressure  
checks (including the spare tire) at  
intervals of no more than 14 days are  
therefore essential.  
If garage temperature = approx. + 68°F  
(+ 20°C) and ambient temperature =  
approx. +32°F (0°C) then the adjusted  
air pressure = specified air pressure + 3  
psi (+ 0.2 bar).  
Tire pressures listed for light loads are  
minimum values offering high driving  
comfort.  
If a tire constantly loses air, it should  
be inspected for damage.  
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Battery  
While the engine is running the battery  
terminal clamps must not be loosened or  
detached, otherwise the alternator and  
other electronic components would be  
damaged.  
Warning!  
The maintenance-free battery is located  
in the trunk under the right-hand wheel  
well cover panel.  
Never lean over batteries while  
connecting, you might get injured.  
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid.  
Do not allow this fluid to come in  
contact with eyes, skin or clothing.  
In case it does, immediately flush  
affected area with water and seek  
medical help.  
The service life of the battery is  
dependent on its condition of charge.  
The battery should always be  
sufficiently charged to last an optimum  
length of time.  
Battery Recycling  
Batteries contain materials that can  
harm the environment with improper  
disposal.  
Therefore, we recommend that you  
have the battery charge checked  
frequently if you use the vehicle mostly  
for short distance trips, or if it is not  
used for long periods of time.  
Large 12 Volt storage batteries contain  
lead, and smaller watch-type batteries  
(such as in the Infrared Remote Control  
Unit) may contain mercury.  
A battery will also produce hydrogen  
gas, which is flammable and  
explosive. Keep flames or sparks  
away from battery, avoid improper  
connection of jumper cables,  
smoking etc..  
Recycling of batteries is the preferred  
method of disposal.  
Only charge a battery with a battery  
charger after the battery has been  
disconnected from the vehicle electrical  
circuit.  
Many states require sellers of batteries  
to accept old batteries for recycling.  
When removing and connecting the  
battery, always make sure that all  
electrical consumers are off and the key  
is in steering lock position 0.  
99  
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Exterior Lamps  
Headlamp Assembly  
6 Bulb socket for turn signal,  
parking, side marker and standing  
lamp bulb  
When replacing bulbs, install only 12  
volt bulbs with the specified watt  
rating.  
1 Headlamp horizontal adjustment  
screw  
7 Electrical connector for high and  
low beam headlamp bulb  
2 Headlamp vertical adjustment screw  
3 Fog lamp adjustment screw  
8 Electrical connector for fog lamp  
4 Clamps for high and low beam  
9 Level for headlamp adjustment  
headlamp cover  
5 Latch for turn signal, parking,  
side marker and standing lamp  
housing.  
100  
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When replacing halogen bulbs do not  
touch glass portion of bulb with bare  
hands. Use plain paper or a clean cloth.  
Reinstall cover and fasten with  
retaining clamps (4).  
Turn Signal, Parking, Side  
Marker and Standing Lamp  
Adjusting headlamp:  
(1157 [215 W/32/3cp] bulb)  
Replacing bulb:  
Warning!  
Correct headlamp adjustment is  
extremely important. To check and  
readjust a headlamp do the following:  
Halogen lamps contain pressurized  
gas. A bulb can explode if you:  
Squeeze latch (5) together and lift  
complete lamp assembly out to front of  
vehicle. Twist bulb socket (6)  
counterclockwise and pull out. Push  
bulb into socket, turn counterclockwise  
and remove.  
touch or move it when hot,  
drop the bulb,  
1. Park unloaded vehicle on level  
surface. Check with carpenter's  
level.  
scratch the bulb.  
2. Open cover above headlamp.  
Move retaining clamps (4)  
aside and remove cover.  
Insert new bulb in socket and twist  
clockwise. Reinstall bulb socket.  
Reinstall lamp assembly until properly  
seated and fasten latch (5).  
Replacing bulb:  
Bulb for high and low beam HB2  
(60/55 W) Bulb for fog lamp  
YC(H3) (55 W)  
3. Adjust vertical headlamp aim  
with adjusting screw (2) until  
the bubble in level (9) is in center  
of the marking (bold line).  
Open cover above headlamp. Move  
retaining clamps (4) aside and remove  
cover. Pull off electrical connector (7)  
respectively (8). Unhook clamping ring  
and pull out bulb together with  
4. Reinstall cover and fasten with  
retaining clamps (4).  
Note:  
clamping ring. Remove bulb.  
Horizontal headlamp aim normally  
needs readjustment only after repair to  
the body or a headlamp unit.  
Therefore, do not turn the horizontal  
adjustment screw (1).  
Insert new bulb (seating properly in  
cutouts of bulb socket), mount  
clamping ring. Reinstall and push  
electrical connector on securely.  
101  
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Tail lamp Assemblies  
5 Backup lamp  
License Plate Lamps  
(21 W/32 cp bulb)  
(5 W bulb)  
1 Turn signal lamp  
(21 W/32 cp bulb)  
6 Trunk lamp (10 W bulb)  
Loosen both securing screws (1),  
remove lamp and take out bulb.  
2 Stop, side marker lamp  
To replace bulbs:  
(21/4 W/35/1.2cp bulb)  
Turn locking lever on lamp cover to  
vertical position and swing open lamp  
support. Push down on bulb to be  
changed, twist counterclockwise and  
remove.  
3 Tail, parking lamp (5 W bulb)  
4 Tail, parking and standing lamp  
(21/4 W/35/1.2cp bulb)  
Driver's side: Tail, parking,  
standing and rear fog lamp  
(21/4 W/35/1.2 cp bulb)  
102  
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High Mounted Stop Lamp  
(H2 [20W] bulb)  
Main fuse box in engine compartment  
Auxiliary fuse box in trunk behind  
right side cover  
Fuses  
To replace the bulb, press tabs on both  
sides (arrows) to release cover.  
Always use a new fuse for replacement.  
Never attempt to repair or bridge a  
blown fuse.  
Before replacing a blown fuse,  
determine the cause of the short circuit.  
Spare fuses are supplied inside the  
main fuse box. Observe amperage and  
color of fuse.  
Turn bulb socket with bulb counter-  
clockwise and pull out.  
After replacing a blown fuse, close  
fuse box cover.  
Press bulb down, turn counterclockwise  
and remove.  
103  
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Jump Starting  
Proceed as follows:  
Important!  
If the battery is discharged, the engine  
should be started with jumper cables  
and the (12 V) battery of another  
vehicle.  
1 Position the vehicle with the charged  
battery so that the jumper cables will  
reach, but never let the vehicles  
touch. Make sure the jumper cables  
do not have loose or missing  
insulation.  
3. Clamp one end of the first jumper  
cable to the positive (+) terminal of  
the discharged battery and the other  
end to the positive (+) terminal of  
the charged battery. Make sure the  
cable clamps do not touch any other  
metal parts.  
The battery is located in the trunk  
behind the right-hand cover panel.  
2 On both vehicles:  
Warning!  
4. Clamp one end of the second jumper  
cable to the grounded negative (-)  
terminal of the charged battery and  
the final connection to the negative  
(-) terminal of the discharged  
battery. Make sure the cables are not  
on or near pulleys, fans, or other  
parts that will move when the engine  
is started  
Turn off engine and all lights  
and accessories, except hazard  
flashers or work lights.  
Failure to follow these directions  
will cause damage to the electronic  
components, and can lead to a  
battery explosion and personal  
injury.  
Apply parking brake and shift  
selector lever to position "P".  
Read all instructions before  
proceeding.  
104  
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Important!  
Warning!  
Important!  
5. Start engine of the vehicle with  
the charged battery and run at  
high idle. Then start engine of  
the disabled vehicle in the  
usual manner.  
Never lean over batteries while  
connecting or jump starting, you  
might get injured.  
A discharged battery can freeze at  
approx. + 14°F (-10°C). In that case, it  
must be thawed out before jumper  
cables are used.  
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid.  
Do not allow this fluid to come in  
contact with eyes, skin or clothing. In  
case it does, immediately flush  
affected area with water, and seek  
medical help.  
Jumper cable specifications:  
6. After the engine has started,  
remove jumper cables by  
Minimum cable cross-section of  
25 mm2 or approx. 2 AWG  
exactly reversing the above  
installation sequence, starting  
with the last connection made  
first. When removing each  
clamp, make sure that it does  
not touch any other metal while  
the other end is still attached.  
Maximum length of 11.5 ft  
(3.5 m).  
A battery will also produce hydrogen  
gas, which is flammable and very  
explosive. Keep flames or sparks  
away from battery, avoid improper  
connection of jumper cables,  
smoking etc..  
105  
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The vehicle may be towed with all  
wheels on the ground and the selector  
lever in position "N" for distances up to  
30 miles (50 km) and at a speed not to  
exceed 30 mph (50 km/h).  
To signal turns while being towed with  
hazard flasher in use, turn key in  
steering lock to position 2 and activate  
combination switch for left or right  
turn signal in usual manner - only the  
selected turn signal will operate.  
To positively avoid a possibility of  
damage to the transmission, however,  
we recommend to disconnect the drive  
shaft at the rear axle drive flange on  
any towing beyond a short tow to a  
nearby garage.  
Upon canceling the turn signal, the  
hazard flasher will operate again.  
Caution!  
If the vehicle is towed with the front  
axle raised, the key must not be in  
steering lock position 2. Otherwise, the  
acceleration slip control will  
immediately be engaged and will apply  
the rear wheel brakes.  
Do not tow with sling-type equipment.  
Towing with sling-type equipment over  
bumpy roads will damage radiator and  
supports.  
Towing the Vehicle  
The rear towing eye is located at the  
right, below the bumper. The front  
towing eye is located on the passenger  
side behind a flap in the bumper panel.  
Use wheel lift or flat bed equipment.  
Note:  
With the engine not running, there is  
no power assistance for the braking and  
steering systems. In this case, it is  
important to keep in mind that a  
considerably higher degree of effort is  
necessary to brake and steer the  
vehicle.  
Flap removal: Insert finger in recess of  
flap and pull flap out.  
Flap installation: Engage flap at bottom  
and press in top securely  
We recommend that the vehicle be  
transported using flat bed equipment.  
This method is preferable to other types  
of towing.  
106  
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Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle  
Warning!  
paint damage. Frequent washing,  
however, reduces and/or eliminates the  
aggressiveness and potency of the above  
adverse influences.  
recommended by Mercedes-Benz  
because of the possibility of  
incompatibility between materials used  
in the production process and others  
applied later.  
Many cleaning products can be  
hazardous. Some are poisonous,  
others are flammable. Always follow  
the instructions on the particular  
container. Always open your car's  
doors or windows when cleaning the  
inside.  
More frequent washings are necessary  
to deal with unfavorable conditions; for  
example, near the ocean, in industrial  
areas (smoke, exhaust emissions), or  
during winter operation.  
We have selected car-care products and  
compiled recommendations which are  
specially matched to our vehicles and  
which always reflect the latest techno-  
logy. You can obtain MB car-care  
products at your authorized Mercedes-  
Benz dealer.  
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  
the start of corrosion.  
Never use fluids or solvents that are  
not designed for cleaning your car.  
Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosion  
or damage due to negligent or incorrect  
care cannot always be removed or  
repaired with the car-care products re-  
commended here. In such cases it is  
best to seek aid at your authorized  
Mercedes-Benz dealer.  
In operation, your vehicle is subjected  
to varying external influences which, if  
gone unchecked, can attack the paint-  
work as well as the underbody and  
cause lasting damage.  
In doing so, do not neglect the  
underside of the car. A prerequisite for a  
thorough check is a washing of the  
underbody followed by a thorough  
inspection. Damaged areas need to be  
reundercoated.  
Such damage is caused not only by  
extreme and varying climatic conditions,  
but also by air pollution, road salt, tar,  
gravel and stone chipping. Grease and  
oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluid, bird  
droppings, tree resins etc. should be  
removed immediately to avoid  
The following topics deal with the  
cleaning and care of your vehicle and  
give important "how-to" information as  
well as references to recommended  
MB car-care products.  
Your vehicle has been treated at the  
factory with a wax-base rust proofing in  
the body cavities which will last for the  
lifetime of the vehicle. Post-production  
treatment is neither necessary nor  
Additional information can be found in  
the booklet titled "Car Care".  
107  
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Engine Cleaning  
the outside mirrors to prevent them from  
getting damaged. If the vehicle has been  
run through an automatic car wash -in  
particular one of the older installations -  
rewipe the recessed sections in the tail  
lamps (designed to prevent soiling) if  
necessary. No solvents (fuels, thinners  
etc.) must be used.  
year; once before and once after  
winter.  
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.  
Headlamp Cleaning System  
The condition of the wiper blades is  
important for satisfactory cleaning of  
the headlamp lenses. We therefore  
recommend that the blades be  
inspected regularly.  
In the winter, thoroughly remove all  
traces of road salt as soon as possible.  
Car Washing  
Replace damaged wiper blades.  
When washing the underbody, do not  
forget to clean the inner sides of the  
wheels.  
Before washing your vehicle, remove  
insect residues. MB Insect Remover is  
recommended. Do not use hot water or  
wash your car in direct sunlight. Use  
only a mild car wash detergent, such as  
MB Autoshampoo.  
Plastic Parts, Headliner and  
Rubber Parts  
Tar Stains  
Do not use oil or wax on these parts.  
Quickly remove tar stains before they  
dry and become more difficult to  
remove. MB Tar Remover is  
recommended.  
Seat Belts  
Thoroughly spray the car with a  
The webbing must not be treated with  
chemical cleaning agents. Use only  
clear, lukewarm water and soap. Do  
not dry the webbing at temperatures  
above 176°F (80°C) or in direct  
sunlight.  
diffused jet of water. Direct only a very  
weak spray towards the ventilation  
intake. Use plenty of water and rinse  
the sponge and chamois frequently.  
Window Cleaning  
Use a window cleaning solution on very  
dirty or oil-stained windows.  
Rinse with clear water and thoroughly  
wipe dry with a chamois. Do not allow  
cleaning agents to dry on the finish.  
Warning!  
Wiper Blades  
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.  
Before running the vehicle through an  
automatic car wash, fold back  
Clean the wiper blade rubber with a  
clean cloth and detergent solution.  
Replace blades twice a  
108  
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Instrument Cluster  
Paintwork, Painted Body  
Components  
Light Alloy Wheels  
Use a gentle dish-washing detergent or  
mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a  
washing solution. Wipe with a cloth  
moistened in lukewarm solution. Do not  
use scouring agents.  
MB-Autoshampoo should be used for  
regular cleaning of the light alloy  
wheels.  
MB-Gloss Preserver should be applied  
when water drops on the paint surface  
do not "bead up"; normally in 3 to 5  
months, depending on climate and  
washing detergent used.  
If possible, clean wheels once a week  
with MB-Autoshampoo, using a soft  
sponge and an ample supply of  
lukewarm water.  
Steering Wheel and Gear Selector  
Lever  
MB-Paint-Polish should be applied if  
paint surface shows signs of dirt  
embedding (i.e. loss of gloss).  
Wipe with a damp cloth and dry  
thoroughly or clean with MB Leather  
Cleaner.  
If the MB-Autoshampoo does not  
satisfactorily clean the wheels, use MB-  
Protective Agent for Light Alloy  
Wheels for normal cleaning and MB-  
Cleaner for Light Alloy Wheels for  
heavier dirt accumulation.  
MB-Fine Polishing Paste must be used  
when the paint surface shows signs of  
excessive fading/ chalking due to lack  
of care etc..  
Leather 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  
Follow instructions on container.  
Do not apply any of these products or  
wax if your car is parked in the sun or if  
the hood is still hot.  
Ornamental Moldings  
permanently discolored. By lining the  
seats with a proper intermediate cover,  
contact-discoloration will be prevented.  
For regular cleaning and care of very  
dirty chrome-plated parts, use a chrome  
cleaner.  
Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up  
Stick for quick and provisional repairs  
of minor paint damage (i.e. chips from  
stones, car doors etc.).  
Wipe leather upholstery with a damp  
cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with  
MB Leather Cleaner. Exercise particular  
care when cleaning perforated leather as  
its underside should not become wet.  
Automatic Antenna and Rear Fender  
Indicators  
For trouble-free operation of the  
automatic antenna and rear fender  
indicators, we recommend to clean  
them periodically.  
109  
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Testing Infrared Remote Control  
Checking Batteries:  
When inserting new batteries, make  
sure they are correctly installed.  
Slide battery cover onto housing until  
locked in place.  
Synchronizing System:  
The system may have to be re-  
synchronized, if the transmitter is  
without voltage for several minutes.  
If the transmit button (1) is pressed  
longer than 1 second, the battery  
indicator lamp in the transmitter eye (2)  
briefly illuminates -indicating that the  
batteries are in order.  
Change batteries if the indicator lamp  
does not come on.  
Important!  
To synchronize system, aim transmitter  
(2) at a receiver (5) and briefly press  
transmit button (1). Within approx. 30  
seconds, lock or unlock the car at a  
door or the trunk using the master key.  
Batteries contain materials that can  
harm the environment if disposed of  
improperly. Recycling of batteries is  
the preferred method of disposal.  
For disposal, please follow manu-  
facturer's recommendation on battery  
package.  
Changing Batteries:  
The infrared remote control should  
once again be operational.  
Slide release (3) laterally and pull off  
battery cover (4). Change batteries.  
110  
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Installation:  
Push button (1) up for approximately 5  
seconds.  
Insert the head restraint and push it  
down to the stop.  
Adjust head restraint to the desired  
position.  
Warning!  
For your protection, drive only with  
properly positioned head restraints.  
Do not drive the vehicle without the  
seat head restraints. Head restraints  
are intended to help reduce injuries  
during an accident.  
Front Head Restraints  
Depress release button (2) beneath the  
seatback covering material and pull  
head restraint up sharply, holding it by  
the left head restraint post (viewed in  
driving direction).  
Removal:  
For positioning of head restraints refer  
to sections Power Seats, Front, and  
Head Restraints, Rear in Index.  
Push button (1) up to bring the head  
restraint to its highest position.  
Pull out head restraint completely with  
both hands.  
111  
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Rear Seat Cushion  
Manual Closing of Trunk Lid  
Manual Retraction of Trunk Lid  
Handle  
Removal: Push in locking tabs (1) (on  
left and right side of seat) and pull up  
seat at the front.  
The trunk lid can be closed manually  
should a malfunction occur on the  
power closing system.  
The trunk lid handle can be retracted  
manually should a malfunction occur  
with the automatic system.  
Installation: Slide rear edge of cushion  
under the backrest so that both wire  
loops under the backrest engage at the  
seat cushion. Push front of cushion  
down until it locks in place  
With the trunk lid open:  
Push sliding switch down (1) and to the  
right (2).  
push sliding switch to position (1),  
press eye of latch in (2),  
push sliding switch to position (3).  
Close trunk lid.  
112  
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Replacing Wiper Blades  
Fold wiper arm forward. Press safety  
tab down (1), push wiper blade  
downward (2) and remove.  
Note:  
For safety reasons, remove key from  
steering lock before replacing a wiper  
blade, otherwise the motor can suddenly  
turn on and cause injury.  
Do not open engine hood with wiper  
arms folded forward.  
Installation - driver's side:  
Headlamp Wiper Blades  
Press safety tab of new wiper blade  
down. Insert wiper blade between the  
tabs (3) on the wiper arm and slide into  
end of wiper arm. Then press safety tab  
upward until it locks in place.  
Windshield Wiper Blades  
Removal:  
Removal:  
Fold wiper arm forward. Push pin (1)  
and remove.  
Pull wiper blade arms upward from the  
rest position to their stop.  
Installation - passenger side:  
Installation:  
Fold wiper arm forward and slide wiper  
blade into end of wiper arm until safety  
tab locks in place.  
Replace wiper blades one at a time to  
prevent the wiper arms from sliding back  
to the rest position.  
Place wiper blade on wiper arm and  
press in pin (1).  
113  
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Fold back access cover in left side  
panel of trunk with a screwdriver.  
Insert socket wrench (from tool kit)  
through opening in panel and place on  
the hex-drive of the electric motor.  
Turn socket wrench (manually) to open  
or close roof as desired.  
To slide the roof closed or to raise the  
roof at the rear: turn clockwise.  
To slide the roof open or to lower the  
roof at the rear: turn counter-  
clockwise.  
Manual Release of Fuel Filler Flap  
Emergency Operation of Sliding  
Roof  
The manual release knob is located  
behind the right side trunk panel and  
felt pad.  
The sliding roof can be opened or  
closed manually should an electrical  
malfunction occur.  
In case the central locking system does  
not release the fuel filler flap, pull the  
manual release knob while  
simultaneously opening the fuel filler  
flap.  
114  
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Spark Plugs  
Layout of Poly-V-belt Drive  
Remove and install spark plugs only  
with socket wrench from the vehicle  
tool kit or a recommended spark plug  
wrench.  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Automatic belt tensioner  
Crankshaft  
Air conditioning compressor  
Fan  
Air pump  
Tightening torque: 15-22 ft.lb.  
(20 - 30 Nm).  
Alternator  
Idler pulley  
Power steering pump  
Coolant pump  
For approved spark plugs see  
"Technical Data".  
Install the poly-V-belt by starting at the  
belt tensioner (1) and proceed with the  
other pulleys in numerical  
order.  
For dimensions of the poly-V-belt,  
see Technical Data in Index.  
115  
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Roof Rack  
Spare Parts Service  
Use only those roof racks approved by  
Mercedes-Benz to avoid damage to the  
vehicle. Follow manufacturer's  
installation instructions.  
All authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers  
maintain a stock of original spare parts  
required for maintenance and repair  
work. In addition, strategically located  
parts distribution centers provide quick  
and reliable parts service.  
Mount supports only between markings  
on border of roof which are visible  
when doors are opened.  
More than 300,000 different spare  
parts, even for older models, are  
available.  
Mercedes-Benz original spare parts are  
subjected to the most stringent quality  
inspections. Each part has been  
specifically developed, manufactured  
or selected for and adapted to  
Mercedes-Benz vehicles.  
Therefore, Mercedes-Benz original  
spare parts should be installed.  
116  
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Technical Data  
117  
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1 Certification Tag  
(left door pillar)  
2 Identification Tag  
(lower edge of windshield)  
3 Vehicle Identification No.  
(on cross member beneath  
front passenger seat)  
4 Engine No.  
5 Body No. and Paintwork No.  
6 Emission Control Tag  
7 Information Tag  
California version  
Vacuum line routing for emission  
control system  
Identification Plates  
When ordering spare parts, please specify vehicle  
Identification and engine numbers.  
118  
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Warranty Coverage  
Loss of Owner's Service and  
Warranty Policy  
Your car is covered under the terms of  
the "warranties" printed in the Owner's  
Service and Warranty Policy Booklet  
and your authorized Mercedes-Benz  
dealer will exchange or repair any  
defective parts in accordance with the  
terms of the following warranties:  
Should you lose your Owner's Service  
and Warranty Policy Booklet, have  
your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer  
arrange for a replacement. It will be  
mailed to you.  
1. New vehicle limited warranty  
2. Emission systems warranty  
3. Emission performance warranty  
4. California emission control  
systems warranty (State of  
Vehicle Data Card  
California only, unless purchased  
optionally for diesel models).  
The vehicle data card contains all  
important data pertaining to the  
vehicle. It should be kept in the  
maintenance booklet where indicated,  
and it is needed when obtaining  
replacement or additional keys at your  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.  
119  
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Technical Data  
Model  
600 SEL (140 057)1  
Rims Tires  
Rims  
Engine  
Mode of operation  
120  
(light alloy rims)  
Summer tires:  
Radial-ply tires  
Winter tires:  
Radial-ply tires  
7 ½ J x 16H2  
4-stroke engine  
gasoline injection  
12  
3.50 in ( 89.00 mm )  
3.16 in ( 80.20 mm)  
365.4 cu.in (3449 cm³)  
10:1  
235/60 ZR 16  
No. of cylinders  
Bore  
Stroke  
Total piston displacement  
Compression ratio  
Output acc.to SAE J 1349  
235/60 R 16 100 H M+S  
402 hp/5200rpm  
(300 kW/5200 rpm)  
Electrical System  
Alternator  
Starter motor  
14 V/120 A  
12 V/1.8 kW  
12 V/100Ah  
Maximum torque acc. To SAE J 1349 428 ft-lb/3800 rpm  
(580 Nm/3800 rpm )  
Battery  
Maximum engine speed  
Firing order  
6000 rpm  
1-12-5-8-3-10-6-7-2-11-  
4-9  
Spark plugs  
Bosch F9 DCO  
Beru 14 F-9 DUO  
Champion S12 YCC  
0.032 in (0.8mm)  
Poly – V belts length  
2585mm  
Electrode gap  
1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See  
an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the  
corresponding data of all special bodies and special  
equipment.  
120  
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Technical Data  
Weights  
Roof load max.  
Trunk load max.  
See certification tag  
220 lb (100kg)  
220 lb (100kg)  
Main Dimensions  
Overall vehicle length  
Overall vehicle width  
Overall height  
205.2 in (5213 mm)  
74.3 in (1886)  
58.6 in (1490)  
Wheel base  
Track, front  
Track, rear  
123.6 in (3140 mm)  
63.1 in (1603 mm)  
62.0 in (1576 mm)  
121  
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Fuels , Coolants, Lubricants etc. - Capacities  
Vehicle components and their respective lubricants must match.  
Therefore use only brands tested and recommended by us.  
Inquire at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.  
Capacity  
Engine with oil filter  
10 US qt (10.0 l)  
Automatic transmission  
Initial fill: 9.1 US qt (8.6 l)  
Fluid change: 8.1 US qt (7.7 l)  
Automatic transmission fluid  
122  
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Capacity  
1.5US qt (1.4l)  
Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.  
Hypoid gear oil SAE 90,85 W 90  
Rear axle  
Hydraulic system for adaptive damping system  
(ADS)  
approx.2.1 US qt (2.0 l)  
approx. 1.4 US qt (1.3 l)  
MB Hydraulic fluid  
MB Power steering fluid  
Hydraulic fluid  
Power steering  
Accelerator control linkage  
Brake system  
approx. 0.5 US qt (0.5 l)  
MB Brake fluid (DOT 4)  
Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning  
system  
MB Windshield washer  
Concentrate “S”1  
approx. 5.3 US qt (5.0 l)  
approx.21.1US qt (20.0 l)  
Cooling system  
MB Anticorrosion/antifreeze  
Fuel tank including a reserve of  
approx.26.4US gal (100 l)  
approx. 3.3US gal (12.5 l)  
Premium unleaded gasoline: Posted  
Octane 91 (Avg. of 96 RON/86 MON)  
Air conditioner system  
R-134a refrigerant and special  
lubricant (NeverR-12)  
1
Use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and water for temperatures above freezing or MB Windshield Washer  
Concentrate “S” and commercially available premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze for temperatures below  
freezing. Follow suggested mixing ratios, see Windshield/Headlamp Washer System in Index.  
123  
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Engine Oils  
Brake Fluid  
Premium Unleaded Gasoline  
Caution!  
Engine oils are specifically tested for  
their suitability in our engines.  
Therefore, use only engine oils  
recommended by Mercedes-Benz.  
Information on recommended brands is  
available at your authorized Mercedes-  
Benz dealer.  
During vehicle operation, the boiling  
point of the brake fluid is continuously  
reduced through the absorption of  
moisture from the atmosphere. Under  
extremely hard operating conditions,  
this moisture content can lead to the  
formation of bubbles in the system thus  
reducing the system's efficiency.  
To maintain the engine's durability and  
performance, premium unleaded  
gasoline must be used. If premium  
unleaded is not available and low  
octane fuel is used, follow these  
precautions:  
Air Conditioner Refrigerant  
have the fuel tank filled only  
partially with unleaded regular and  
fill up with premium unleaded as  
soon as possible,  
The brake fluid must therefore be  
replaced every two years, preferably  
in the spring.  
Ozone-friendly HFC-134a refrigerant  
and special lubricating oil is used in the  
air conditioner system.  
It is recommended to use only brake  
fluid approved by Mercedes-Benz.  
Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer  
will provide you with additional  
information.  
avoid full throttle driving and  
abrupt acceleration,  
Never use R-12 (CFC) or damage to the  
system will occur.  
do not exceed an engine speed of  
3000 rpm, if the vehicle is loaded  
with a light load such as two persons  
and no luggage,  
do not exceed 2/3 of maximum  
accelerator pedal position, if the  
vehicle is fully loaded or operating in  
mountainous terrain.  
124  
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Fuel Requirements  
The ratio of Methanol to gasoline must  
not exceed 3% plus additional  
cosolvents.  
Gasoline Additives  
Use only Premium unleaded meeting  
ASTM standard D 439:  
A major concern among engine  
manufacturers is carbon build up caused  
by gasoline. Mercedes-Benz  
Using mixtures of Ethanol and  
Methanol is not allowed, Gasohol,  
which contains 10% Ethanol and 90%  
unleaded gasoline, can be used.  
The octane number (posted at the pump)  
must be 91 min. It is an average of both  
the Research (R) octane number and the  
Motor (M) octane number: [(R + M)/2].  
This is also known as ANTI-KNOCK  
INDEX..  
recommends to use only quality  
gasoline containing additives that  
prevent the build up of carbon deposits.  
After an extended period of using fuels  
without such additives, carbon deposits  
can build up especially on the intake  
valves and in the combustion area,  
leading to engine performance problems  
such as:  
These blends must also meet all other  
fuel requirements such as resistance to  
spark knock, boiling range, vapor  
pressure etc..  
Unleaded gasoline containing  
oxygenates such as Ethanol, IPA, IBA  
and TBA can be used provided the ratio  
of any one of these oxygenates to  
gasoline does not exceed 10%, MTBE  
not to exceed 15%.  
• warm-up hesitation,  
• unstable idle,  
• knocking/pinging,  
• misfire,  
• power loss.  
Damage or malfunctions resulting from  
poor fuel quality are not covered by the  
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.  
125  
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Coolants  
heat transfer capability of the solution.  
Therefore, do not use more than this  
amount of anti-corrosion/antifreeze.  
If the coolant level is low, water and  
MB anticorrosion/antifreeze should be  
used to bring it up to the proper level  
(have cooling system checked for signs  
of leakage).  
Therefore the following product is  
strongly recommended for use in your  
car: Mercedes-Benz Anticorrosion/  
Antifreeze Agent.  
The engine coolant is a mixture of water  
and anticorrosion/anti-freeze, which  
provides:  
Before the start of the winter season (or  
once a year in the hot southern regions),  
you should have the anticorrosion/  
antifreeze concentration checked. The  
coolant is also regularly checked each  
time you bring your vehicle to your  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for  
maintenance service  
corrosion protection  
freeze protection  
boiling protection (by increasing  
the boiling point).  
The water in the cooling system must  
meet minimum requirements, which are  
usually satisfied by normal drinking  
water. If you are not sure about the  
water quality, consult your authorized  
Mercedes-Benz dealer.  
The cooling system was filled at the  
factory with a coolant providing freeze  
protection to approx. -22 °F (-30 °C) and  
corrosion protection.  
The coolant solution must be used year  
round to provide the necessary corrosion  
protection and increase in the boil-over  
protection. You should have it replaced  
every 3 years.  
Anticorrosion/antifreeze  
Your vehicle contains a number of  
aluminum parts. The use of aluminum  
components in motor vehicle engines  
necessitates that anticorrosion/  
antifreeze coolant used in such engines  
be specifically formulated to protect the  
aluminum parts. (Failure to use such  
anticorrosion/antifreeze coolant will  
result in a significantly shortened  
service life.)  
Approx. freeze Anticorrosion/  
antifreeze  
-35 ° F  
To provide the important corrosion  
protection, the solution must be at least  
40% anticorrosion/antifreeze (equals a  
freeze protection to approx. -13°F  
[-25°C]). If you use a solution that is  
more than 55% anticorrosion/antifreeze  
(freeze protection to approx. -49 °F  
[-45°C]), the engine temperature will  
increase due to the lower  
(-37 °C)  
-49 °F  
5.3 US qt (5.0 l)  
(-45°C)  
6.3 US qt (6.0 l)  
126  
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Consumer Information  
depart significantly from the norm due to  
variations in driving habits, service  
practices and differences in road  
characteristics and climate.  
tested under controlled conditions on a  
specified indoor laboratory test wheel.  
Sustained high temperature can cause  
the material of the tire to degenerate and  
reduce tire life, and excessive tempera-  
ture can lead to sudden tire failure. The  
grade "C" corresponds to a level of  
performance which all passenger car  
tires must meet under the Federal Motor  
Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades  
"B" and "A" represent higher levels of  
performance on the laboratory test  
wheel than the minimum required by  
law.  
This has been prepared as required of all  
manufacturers of passenger cars under  
Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal  
Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the  
"National Traffic and Motor Vehicle  
Safety Act of 1966".  
Traction "A", "B", "C"  
The traction grades, from highest to  
lowest, are "A", "B", and "C", and  
they represent the tire's ability to stop  
on wet pavement as measured under  
controlled conditions on specified  
government test surfaces of asphalt and  
concrete. A tire marked "C" may have  
poor traction performance.  
Uniform Tire Quality Grading  
Refer to the tire sidewall for the specific  
tire grades for the tires with which this  
vehicle is equipped.  
All passenger car tires must conform to  
federal safety requirements in addition to  
these grades.  
Warning!  
Warning!  
The temperature grade for this tire is  
established for a tire that is properly  
inflated and not overloaded. Excessive  
speed, underinflation, or excessive  
loading, either separately or in  
combination, can cause excessive heat  
build up and possible tire failure.  
The traction grade assigned to this tire  
is based on braking (straight ahead)  
traction tests and does not include  
cornering (turning) traction.  
Treadwear  
The treadwear grade is a comparative  
rating based on the wear rate of the tire  
when tested under controlled conditions  
on a specified government test course.  
For example, a tire graded 150 would  
wear one and one-half (11/2) times as  
well on the government course as a tire  
graded 100. The relative performance of  
tires depends upon the actual conditions  
of their use, however, and may  
Temperature "A", "B", "C"  
The temperature grades are "A" (the  
highest), "B", and "C", representing the  
tire's resistance to the generation of heat  
and its ability to dissipate heat when  
127  
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Problems with your Vehicle  
If you should experience a problem with your vehicle, particularly one that you  
believe may affect its safe operation, we urge you to immediately contact your  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer to have the problem diagnosed and corrected if  
required. If the matter is not handled to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem  
with the dealership management, or if necessary contact the Owner Service Manager  
at the Mercedes-Benz Regional Office nearest you (see Owner's Service and  
Warranty Information booklet for addresses). You may also write directly to us at  
the following addresses:  
In the U.S.A.: Owner Service Department  
Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc.  
One Mercedes Drive  
Montvale, NJ 07645-0350  
In Canada:  
Owner Service Department  
Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.  
849 Eglinton Avenue East  
Toronto, Ontario, M4G 2L5  
128  
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For the U.S.A. only.  
The following text is published as required of manufacturers under  
Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the  
"National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966"  
Reporting Safety Defects  
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or  
could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National  
Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to  
notifying Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc.  
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and  
if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a  
recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved  
in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Mercedes-Benz of  
North America Inc.  
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-  
424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S.  
Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other  
information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.  
129  
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130  
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Index  
131  
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ABS 73, 82  
Battery 99  
Coolant level, checking 89  
Coolant temperature gauge 78 -  
79  
Acceleration slip control (ASR) 83  
Active charcoal filter 27  
Adaptive damping system (ADS)84  
ADS 84, 123  
Battery not being charged  
Charge indicator lamp 15, 76  
Brake fluid 17,81, 107, 124  
Brake pads worn  
Coolants 126  
Cruise control 74  
Air conditioner refrigerant 124  
Air outlets 22  
Brake pad wear indicator lamp  
80  
Brake warning lamp  
Brake fluid low 81  
Brake warning lamp test 81  
Brakes 16, 18, 70, 72-73, 75, 84,  
106  
Capacities: Fuels, coolants,  
lubricants etc. 122  
Catalytic converter 14  
Central locking system 31  
Check regularly and before a long  
trip 136  
Drinking and driving 70  
Driving instructions 16  
Driving off 70  
Airbag 50  
Alarm system 35  
Antenna 68, 109  
Anti-theft alarm system 35  
Anticorrosion/antifreeze 86, 89, 123, 126  
Antilock brake system (ABS) 82  
Armrest, front 41  
Emergency tensioning retractor  
(ETR) 49  
Emission control 85  
Engine malfunction  
"CHECK ENGINE" lamp 85  
Engine oil consumption 77  
Engine oil level low  
Low engine oil level warning  
lamp 90  
Engine oil level, checking 90  
Engine oils 122, 124  
Armrest, rear 43  
Ashtrays 64  
ASR 80, 83-84, 86, 106  
At the Gas Station 137  
Automatic climate control 23  
Automatic transmission 71  
Automatic transmission fluid level,  
checking 91  
Child restraint 41, 48, 52, 54  
Cleaning and care of the vehicle  
107  
Clock, setting 68  
Engine overheating 78  
Engine speed limit Overrevving 73  
Exterior lamp failure indicator lamp 80  
Exterior lamp switch 58  
Combination switch 56  
Consumer information 127  
Coolant level low Adding  
coolant 89  
Low engine coolant level  
warning lamp 79  
132  
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First aid kit 92  
Jump starting 104  
Parking brake 15-18, 70-73,  
81, 91, 93, 95, 104  
Fuel  
Fuel requirements 125  
Keys, vehicle 28  
Power closing assist for doors and  
trunk lid 34  
Gasoline additives 125  
Premium unleaded gasoline 14, 123 124  
Fuel consumption gauge 77  
Fuel filler flap, manual release 114  
Fuel reserve warning lamp 78  
Fuses 103  
Lamps, exterior Fog lamps 58  
Head lamps 58, 80, 100  
High mounted stop lamp 103  
License plate lamp 58, 102  
Taillamps 58, 102, 108  
Layout of poly-V-belt drive 115  
Lighter 64  
Power seats, front 36  
Power seats, rear 42  
Power windows 66  
Problems with your vehicle 128  
Reading lamps 62  
Head restraints, front 36  
Head restraints, rear 44  
Head restraints, removal 111  
Headlights 58  
Heated seats 40  
Hood 88  
Rear fender indicators 74  
Rear passenger compartment  
climate control 27  
Low engine oil Level warning  
lamp 77  
Rear seat cushion 112  
Hear view mirrors  
Maintenance 4, 8  
Memory 37  
Exterior rear view mirrors 59  
Inside rear view mirror 37 -38, 45,  
59 - 60  
Identification plates 118  
Indicator lamp symbols 13  
Instrument cluster 12  
Interior lighting 62  
Oil pressure gauge 15, 76  
Orthopedic seat backrest 39  
Outside temperature indicator 78  
Rear window defroster 67  
Remote control, infrared 29, 110  
Replacing bulbs 101  
Roadside assistance 5  
Roof rack 116  
133  
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Safety guidelines for the seat belt,  
emergency tensioning retractor  
and airbag 53  
Seat belt warning lamp 80  
Seat belts and warning system 46  
Service literature 135  
Sliding roof  
Emergency operation 114  
Sliding roof operation 65  
Snow chains 83, 86  
Spare parts service 116  
Spare wheel 92  
Spark plugs 115  
SRS malfunction 50  
Starting and turning off the engine 15  
Steering lock 55  
Steering wheel, adjustable 45  
Storage compartments 63  
Sun visors 61  
Supplemental restraint system (SRS)  
46,49  
Technical data 120  
Tire inflation pressure 98  
Tires 17-18, 84, 86, 94, 98, 120,  
127  
Upholstery 109, 119  
Vanity mirrors 61  
Vehicle data card  
Vehicle jack 93  
Vehicle tools 93  
Towing the vehicle 106  
Traveling abroad 86  
Trunk lamp 92  
Trunk lid  
Warranty coverage 119  
Washing the car 108  
Manual closing 112  
Manual retraction of handle  
112  
Wheels  
Alloy wheels 109  
Trunk, separately locked 32  
Turn signals 56 - 57  
Rims and tires 94  
Wheels, changing 95  
Windshield/headlamp washer system  
Fluid level low 79  
Washer concentrate 57, 79, 123  
Washer fluid mixing ratio 57  
Winter driving 72, 86  
Winter driving instructions 19  
Wiper blades, replacing 113  
134  
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Service Literature  
Warning!  
To help avoid personal injury, be extremely  
careful when performing any maintenance  
work or repairs. Improper or incomplete  
service may damage the vehicle or its  
equipment, which may in turn result in  
personal injury.  
Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer has trained technicians and  
original Mercedes-Benz parts to service your vehicle properly. For expert  
advice and quality service, see your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.  
Customers who are interested in ordering service literature for their  
vehicles are advised to contact Mercedes-Benz distributors in the U.S. or  
Canada at the following addresses, respectively  
If you have any question about carrying  
out some service, turn to the advice of an  
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.  
for U.S.A.:  
Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc.  
One Mercedes Drive P. O. Box 350  
Montvale, New Jersey 07645  
Att: Service and Parts Literature  
Tel: (201)573-0600  
for Canada:  
Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.  
849 Eglinton Ave., East  
Toronto, Ont., Canada M4G2L5  
Att: Technical Publications  
Tel: 416-425-3550  
Telex: 065-24232  
The above companies will be happy to handle any such requests from  
customers.  
We consider this to be the best way to obtain accurate information for your  
vehicle.  
135  
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1 Fuel Supply  
Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip  
To open the fuel filler when refilling the fuel  
tank, turn fuel filler cap to the left and hold on to  
it until possible pressure in tank has been  
released, then remove cap.  
2 Tire Inflation Pressure  
Check at least every two weeks. For details see  
Index.  
3 Coolant Level  
See Adding coolant in Index.  
4 Windshield Washer System,  
Headlamp Cleaning System  
For refilling reservoir see Index.  
5 Engine Oil Level  
See Index.  
6 Brake Fluid  
See Index.  
Vehicle Lighting: Check function and  
cleanliness. For replacement of light bulbs, see  
Index.  
136  
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What You Should Know at the Gas Station  
Coolant:  
Fuel:  
For normal replenishing, use water (potable water  
quality).  
Use premium unleaded gasoline: Posted Octane Index 91  
(Average of 96 RON/86 MON)  
For further information (e.g. anticorrosion/ antifreeze), refer  
to Index.  
Fuel tank capacity approx. 26.4 US gal (100 l). This  
includes approx. 3.3 US gal (12.5 l) reserve.  
Bulbs:  
Only fill fuel tank until the filler nozzle unit cuts out –  
do not overfill.  
High and low beams: HB2 (60/55 W),  
fog lamps: YC (H3) (55 W),  
turn signal, standing, side marker and parking  
lamps, front: 1157 (21/5 W/32/3 cp),  
tail, parking, standing and driver's side  
rear fog lamp: 21/4 W/35/1.2 cp,  
turn signal lamps, rear: 21 W/32 cp,  
tail and parking lamps: 5 W,  
Warning!  
Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently  
and can cause serious injury. Whenever you are  
around gasoline, extinquish all smoking materials.  
Never get sparks, flame or smoking materials near  
gasoline!  
stop lamps: 21 W/32 cp,  
high mounted stop lamp: H2 (20 W),  
license plate lamps: 5 W.  
Engine Oil:  
Tire Pressure:  
Engine oil level check, see Index.  
Fill quantity between upper and lower dipstick marking  
level: 2.1 US qt (2.0 l).  
For tire pressure, refer to tire pressure inside the fuel filler  
flap.  
Recommended engine oils, see Index.  
Air Conditioner:  
Automatic Transmission:  
R-134a refrigerant and special lubricant, refer to "Technical  
Data" (also see Index)  
MB Automatic transmission fluid.  
For level checks refer to Index.  
137  
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