Mercedes-Benz

Operator's Manual

600 SEL

1
Product information
Kindly observe the following in your own best interest:
We recommend using Mercedes-Benz original parts as well as conversion parts and accessories explicitly approved by us for
your vehicle model. We have tested these parts to determine their reliability, safety and their special suitability for Mercedes-
Benz vehicles.
We are unable to make an assessment for other products and therefore cannot be held responsible for them, even if in individual cases
an official approval or authorization by governmental or other agencies should exist. Use of such parts and accessories could
adversely affect the safety, performance or reliability of your vehicle. Please do not use them. Mercedes-Benz original parts as well as
conversion parts and accessories approved by us are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center where you will receive
comprehensive information, also on permissible technical modifications, and where proper installation will be performed.

Our company and staff congratulate you on the purchase of your new Mercedes-Benz.
Your selection of our product is a demonstration of your trust in our company name. Further, it exemplifies your desire to own an
automobile that will be as easy as possible to operate and provide years of service.
Your Mercedes-Benz represents the efforts of many skilled engineers and craftsmen. To ensure your pleasure of ownership, and
for your safety and that of your passengers, we ask you to make a small investment of your time:

• Please read this manual carefully before putting it aside. Then return it to your vehicle where it will be handy for
your reference.
• Please abide by the recommendations contained in this manual. They are designed to acquaint you with the
operation of your Mercedes-Benz.
• Please abide by the warnings and cautions contained in this manual. They are designed to help improve the safety
of the vehicle operator and occupants.
We extend our best wishes for many miles of safe, pleasurable driving.
DaimlerChrysler AG

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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 (in the 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-Benz USA, Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc.
LLC European Delivery Department European Delivery Department
One Mercedes Drive 849 Eglinton Avenue East
Montvale, NJ 07645 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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Introduction Trunk 32 Vanity Mirrors 61
Power Windows and Interior Lighting 62
Product information 2 Sliding/Pop-Up Roof 33 Storage Compartments
Operator's manual 6 Power Closing Assist for in the Dashboard 63
Consumer Information 127 Doors and trunk Lid 34 Storage Compartments in the Door 63
Problems with your vehicle 128 Anti-Theft Alarm System 35 Ashtrays 64
Reporting Safety Defects 129 Power Seats, Front 36 Lighter 64
Index 132 Orthopedic Seat Backrest 39 Sliding Roof with Rear
Heated Seats 40 Pop-Up Feature 65
Instruments and Controls Armrest, Front 41 Power Windows 66
Power Seats, Rear 42 Rear Window Defroster 67
Instruments and Controls 10 Armrest, Rear 43 Setting Clock 68
Instrument Cluster 12 Adjusting Front Passenger Antenna 68
Indicator Lamp Symbols 13 Seat from Rear Seat 43
Catalytic Converter 14 Head Restrains, Rear 42 Driving
Starting and Turning Off the Engine 15 Power Head Restrains, Rear 44
Driving Instructions 16 Adjustable Steering Wheel 45 Drinking and Driving 70
Seat Belts and Supplemental Parking Brake 70
Operation Restrain System (SRS) 46 Driving Off 70
Seat Belts 46 Automatic Transmissions 71
Air Outlets 22 Emergency Tensioning Rear Fender Indicators 74
Automatic Climate Control 23 Retractor (ETR) 49 Cruise Control 74
Rear Passenger Compartment: Airbags 50 Charge Indicator Lamp 76
Climate Control 27 Steering Lock 55 Oil Pressure Gauge with Oil
Active Charcoal Filter 27 Combination Switch 56 Pressure Warning Lamp 76
Car Keys 28 Exterior Lamp Switch 58 Low Engine Oil Level
Infrared Remote Control 29 Inside and Exterior Warning Lamp 77
Central Locking System 31 Rear View Mirrors 59 Engine Oil Consumption 77
Doors 31 Sun Visors 61
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Fuel Consumption Gauge 77 Checking Engine Oil Level 90 Emergency Operation
Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp 78 Checking Automatic of Sliding Roof 114
Outside Temperature Indicator 78 Transmission Fluid Level 91 Spark Plugs 115
Coolant Temperature Gauge 78 Trunk Lamp 92 Layout of Poly-V-Belt drive 115
Low Engine Coolant Level Spare Wheel, Lug Wrench 92 Roof Rack 116
Warning Lamp 79 First Aid Kit 92 Mercedes-Benz
Low Windshield and Headlamp Vehicle Jack 93 Spare Parts Service 116
Washer System Fluid Level Vehicle Tools 93
Warning Lamp 79 Storage Compartment below Technical Data. Fuels,
Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator Lamp 80 Vehicle Tool Box 93 Coolants, Lubricants etc.
Seat Belt Warning Lamp 80 Wheels 94 Consumer Information
Brake Pad Wear Indicator lamp 80 Changing Wheels 95
Brake Warning Lamp 81 Tire Inflation Pressure 98 Identification Plates 118
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 82 Battery 99 Vehicle Data Card 119
Acceleration Slip Control (ASR) 83 Exterior Lamps 100 Warranty Coverage 119
Driving with Snow Chains 83 Fuses 103 Technical Data 120
Adaptive Damping System (ADS) 84 Jump Starting 104 Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants etc. 122
Emission Control 85 Towing the Vehicle 106 Capacities 122
On Board Diagnostic System Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle 107 Engine Oils 124
(California models only) 85 Testing Infrared Remote Control 110 Air Conditioner Refrigerant 124
Traveling Abroad 86 Front Head Restrains 111 Brake Fluid 124
Winter Driving 86 Rear Seat Cushion 112 Premium Unleaded Gasoline 124
Snow Chains 86 Manual Closing of Trunk Lid 112 Fuels Requirements 125
Manual Retraction of Gasoline Additives 125
Practical Hints Trunk Lid Handle 112 Coolants 126
Replacing Wiper Blades 113 Service and Literature 135
Hood 88 Manual Release of Fuel Filler Flap 114 Check regularly and before a long trip 136
Checking Coolant Level 89 At the Gas Station 137
Adding Coolant 89

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Instruments and Controls
For more detailed descriptions see Index.

Adjustable air outlet Lock for telephone control unit compartment and
1 18
Exterior lamp switch glove box
2
Parking brake release Glove box (illuminated with key in steering
3 19
4 Steering wheel adjustment switch lock position 2)
5 Combination switch 20 Rear window defroster switch
6 Cruise control switch 21 Switch for rear seat head restrains
7 Horn, airbag 22 Active charcoal filter switch
8 Instrument cluster 23 Hazard warning flasher switch
9 Steering lock with preglow / starter switch 24 Automatic climate control
10 Adjustable air outlet 25 Radio
11 Heated air supply button – center air outlet 26 Snow chain switch
12 Non – heated /coolant air supply button - 27 Ashtray with lighter
center air outlet 28 Adaptive damping system adjustment switch
13 Air volume control for left air outlet 29 Seat heater switch
14 Air volume control for left center air outlet 30 Mirror adjustment switch
15 Air volume control for right center air outlet 31 Switch for rear window sunshade
16 Air volume control for right air outlet 32 Power window switch
17 Telephone control unit compartment 33 Loudspeaker front to rear fader control
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11
Instrument Cluster

1 Fuel gauge with reserve warning lamp (yellow). See Index. 9 Trip odometer
2 Coolant temperature gauge. See Index. 10 Main odometer
3 Fuel consumption gauge. See Index. 11 Outside temperature indicator. See Index.
4 Oil pressure gauge (bar) with warning lamp (red). See Index 12 Right turn signal indicator lamp (green)
5 Left turn signal indicator lamp (green) 13 Knob for setting clock
6 Knob for instrument lamps and trip odometer Rotate knob (to adjust pull knob out). See Index.
to vary intensity of instrument lamps. 14 Tachometer.
7 Speedometer 15 Red marking on tachometer: Excessive engine speed
8 ASR function indicator lamp (yellow). See Index 16 Electric clock. See Index
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Indicator Lamp Symbols
Function Indicator Lamp

High beam ASR malfunction. See Index.

ABS malfunction

Warning Lamps Brake pads worn down. See Index.

(should go out with the engine running unless)

Battery not being charged properly. See Index Brake fluid low (except Canada).
Parking brake engaged. See Index.
Fluid level for windshield and headlamp washer Brake fluid low (Canada only).
system low. See Index. 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.

Exterior lamp failure. 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
ADS malfunction. See Index. or emission control system. In either case, we
recommend that you have the malfunction checked
as soon as possible. See Index.

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Catalytic Converter Caution! Warning!

Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with To prevent damage to the catalytic As with any vehicle, do not idle, park
monolithic type catalytic converters, an converters, use only premium unleaded or operate this vehicle in areas where
important element in conjunction with gasoline in this vehicle. combustible materials such as grass,
the O2~sensor to achieve substantial hay or leaves can come into contact
control of the pollutants in the exhaust Any noticeable irregularities in engine with the hot exhaust system, as these
emissions. Keep your vehicle in proper operation should be repaired promptly. materials could be ignited.
operating condition by following our Otherwise, excessive unburned fuel
recommended maintenance instructions may reach the catalytic converter
as outlined in your Maintenance causing it to overheat.
Booklet.

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Starting and Turning Off the Engine Hot Engine Important!
Before Starting
Turn key in steering lock clockwise to Due to the installed starter non-repeat
Engage parking brake and move the the stop. Do not depress accelerator. feature, the key must be turned
selector lever to position "P". If the engine has not fired after approx. completely to the left before attempting
4 seconds, depress accelerator and to start the engine again.
Turn key in steering lock to position 2. continue cranking until the engine is
The charge indicator lamp should firing regularly. Release key and back Observe the oil pressure gauge
come on. off accelerator. immediately after starting the engine.
In a very cold engine the oil pressure
Cold Engine At very high coolant temperatures the will rise slowly after the engine has
engine starting time can be shortened if started. Do not speed up the engine
Turn key in steering lock clockwise to the accelerator is depressed slowly at before pressure is registered on the
the stop. Do not depress accelerator. the beginning of the starting process. pressure gauge.
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.
Turn the key in the steering lock to In areas where temperatures frequently
position 0 only when the vehicle has drop below -4°F (-20°C) we
stopped moving. The key can only be recommend that an engine block heater
removed with the selector lever in be installed. Your authorized
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".

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Driving Instructions Warning! Warning!

Power Assistance After driving in heavy rain for some The stop lamps will not come on
time without applying the brakes or when applying the parking brake
When the engine is not running, the through water deep enough to wet only. Perform the procedure in the
brake and steering systems are without brake components, the first braking previous paragraph only when the
power assistance. Under these action may be somewhat reduced road is clear of other traffic.
circumstances, a much greater effort is and increased pedal pressure may be
necessary to stop or steer the vehicle. necessary. Be sure to maintain a safe Resting your foot on the brake pedal
distance from vehicles in front will cause excessive and premature
Brakes wear of the brake pads.
The condition of the parking brake
Caution! system is checked each trine the car is It can also result in the brakes
in the shop for the required overheating thereby significantly
When driving down long and steep maintenance. reducing their effectiveness. It may
grades, relieve the load on the brakes not be possible to stop the car in
by shifting into "3", "2" or "B". This Between maintenance checks, it is a sufficient time to avoid an accident
helps prevent overheating of the brakes good practice to apply the parking
and reduces brake pad wear. Do not brake once or twice while driving at All checks and maintenance work on
exceed engine speed limits (see Index). approximately 30 mph (50 km/h) on a the brake system should be carried out
After hard braking, it is advisable to dry straight road. Apply parking brake by an authorized Mercedes-Benz
drive on for some time, rather than lightly until a slight drag on the wheels dealer.
immediately parking, so the air stream is felt. Keep applying the brake for
will cool down the brakes faster, about 10 seconds while pulling the
release handle out before releasing the
parking brake completely. This practice
will keep the parking brake at
maximum efficiency

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If the parking brake is released and the Warning!
brake warning lamp in the instrument
cluster stays on, the brake fluid level in Do not allow your tires to wear down
the reservoir is too low. too far. With less than 1/16 in (3 mm)
of tread, the adhesion properties on a
Brake pad wear or a leak in the system wet road are sharply reduced.
may be the reason for low brake fluid
in the reservoir. Depending upon the weather and/or
road surface (conditions), the tire
Have the brake system inspected at an traction varies widely.
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer
immediately. Specified tire pressures must be
maintained. This applies particularly if
Install only brake pads and brake fluid the tires are subjected to high loads
recommended by Mercedes-Benz. (e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, high
Tires ambient temperatures).
Warning!
Tread wear indicators (TWI) are Warning!
If other than recommended brake required by law. These indicators are
pads are installed, the braking located in six places on the tread Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat
properties of the vehicle can be circumference and become visible at a tire affects the ability to steer or
degraded to an extent that safe depth of approximately 1/16 in (2 mm), brake the vehicle. You may lose
braking is substantially impaired. at which point the tire is considered control of the car. Continued driving
worn and should be replaced. with a flat tire or driving at high
speed with a flat tire will cause
The tread wear indicator appears as a excessive heat build-up and possibly
solid band across the tread. a fire, or tire blowout

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Aquaplaning We recommend M + S radial -ply tires Parking
for the winter season for all four
Depending on the depth of the water wheels to insure normal balanced Warning!
layer on the road, aquaplaning may handling characteristics.
occur, even at low speeds and with new To reduce the risk of personal injury
tires. Reduce vehicle speed, avoid track On packed snow, they can reduce your as a result of vehicle movement,
grooves in the road and apply brakes stopping distance as com pared with before turning off the engine and
cautiously in the rain. summer tires. Stopping distance, leaving the vehicle always:
however, is still considerably greater
Tire Traction than when the road is wet or dry. 1. Keep right foot on brake pedal.
2. Firmly depress parking
The safe speed on a wet, snow covered brake pedal.
or icy road is always lower than on a dry 3. Move the selector lever to
road. position "P".
4. Slowly release brake pedal.
You should pay particular attention to 5. Turn front wheels towards
the condition of the road whenever as the the road curb.
outside temperatures are close to the 6. Turn the key to steering
freezing point. lock position 0 and remove.

Warning! Important!

If ice has formed on the road, fire It is advisable to set the parking brake
traction will be substantially reduced. whenever parking or leaving the
Under such weather conditions, drive, vehicle. In addition, move selector
steer and brake with extreme caution. lever to position "P".

When parking on hills, always set the

parking brake.

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Winter Driving Instructions become necessary to produce the Warning!
normal brake effect. We therefore
The most important rule for slippery or recommend depressing the brake pedal If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow,
icy roads is to drive sensibly and to repeatedly when traveling on salt- make sure that snow is kept clear of
avoid abrupt ac celeration, braking and strewn roads at length. This can bring the exhaust pipe and from around
steering maneuvers. Do not use the road salt impaired braking efficiency the vehicle with engine running.
cruise control system under such back to normal. A prerequisite is, Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide
conditions. however, that this is possible without (CO) gases may enter vehicle interior
endangering other drivers on the road. resulting in unconsciousness and
When the vehicle is in danger of death.
skidding, move selector lever to If the vehicle is parked after being
position "N". Try to keep the vehicle driven on salt treated roads, the braking To assure sufficient fresh air
under control by corrective steering efficiency should be tested as soon as ventilation, open a window slightly
action. possible after driving is resumed while on the side of the car that is out of
observing the safety rules in the the wind.
Road salts and chemicals can adversely previous paragraph.
affect braking efficiency Increased
pedal force may

19
20
Operation

21
Air Outlets
1 Air volume control for left air 5 Left center air outlet, adjustable Note:
outlet, turn left open 6 Right center air outlet, adjustable
2 Air volume control for left center 7 Side air outlet, left and right, adjustable Dust particles (down to a certain
air outlet, turn left open 8 Heated air supply button – center Size) and pollen are filtered out
3 Air volume control for right center air outlet (red indicator) Before outside air enters the
outlet, turn left open 9 Non – heated/cooled air supply passenger compartment through
4 Air volume control for right air button – center air outlet (blue indicator) the air distribution system.
outlet, turn left to open

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Automatic Climate Control Right side passenger
Left side passenger compartment compartment:

1 Temperature selector 5 Defrost 12 Temperature selector

2 Temperature display 6 Residual engine heat utilization 13 Temperature display
3 Automatic mode 7 Air recirculation 14 Automatic mode
4 Air distribution buttons 8 Air volume selector 15 Air distribution buttons
9 Economy
10 Selection switch
11 Off

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The temperature selected with the 1, 12 Temperature Selector Note:
temperature selector is reached as
quickly as possible. The desired interior temperature can be If the Automatic Climate Control is in
selected separately for the left and right the "Diagnosis Mode", turn key in
The temperature selector should be left side of the passenger compartment. steering lock to position 0 to return it to
at the desired temperature setting. its normal operation.
A basic setting in the white field of the
With the center air outlets open and the selector is recommended, and can be 5 Defrost
system in heating mode, switch the used for driving year round.
outlets to non-heated/ cooled air by Maximum heated and automatically
pressing the blue button (indicator lamp The selected temperature can be shown controlled amount of air is directed to
lights up). in the display window (2) in either °F the windshield and side windows.
or °C. As the engine coolant temperature
With the center air outlets open and the increases, the air volume is auto-
system in cooling mode, switch the 3, 14 Automatic Mode matically increased, thereby defrosting
outlets to non-heated/ fresh air by as quickly as possible.
pressing the red button (indicator lamp This is the normal setting. Open and direct air outlets (7) towards
lights up). the side windows.
Air volume and distribution are
The system will not heat or cool any controlled automatically. Note:
quicker by setting a higher or lower Press once again to return to
temperature. To select: Press button previous setting.
(indicator lamp lights up)
The automatic climate control only Defogging Windows
operates with the engine running. To change selection:
Switch off , or switch on
The automatic climate control removes Press or (left and right side), or switch on
considerable moisture from the air button (indicator lamp of selected
during operation in the cooling mode. button lights up). The indicator lamp Note:
It is normal for water to drip on the for button goes out. To quickly defog the inside of the
ground through ducts in the underbody windshield, select the largest air
volume and air distribution button

24
6 Residual Engine Heat The system will automatically The system will automatically switch
Utilization shut off from recirculated air to fresh air if
button is pressed
With the engine switched off, it is • after approx. 30 minutes,
possible to continue heating the interior • if the engine coolant temperature • after approx. 5 minutes at
for a short while. The rear passenger drops below 122°F (50°C), outside temperatures below
compartment air outlet must be closed. • if the battery voltage drops. approx. 40°F(5°C),
Air volume and distribution are
controlled automatically. 7 Air Recirculation • after approx. 20 minutes, at
outside temperatures above
To select: Outside air is not supplied to the car's approx. 40°F (5°C),
interior.
Turn key in steering lock to position 1 if button is pressed
or 0 or remove key. This mode can be selected to prevent • after approx. 5 minutes.
annoying odors or dust from entering
Press button (indicator lamp the car's interior. 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
temperature is below 122°F (50°C) or (indicator lamp lights up). inside, switch from recirculated air
if the battery charge level is insufficient. back to fresh air.
To cancel:
To cancel: Press button At high outside temperatures, the
• Press button (indicator lamp goes out system automatically engages the
(indicator lamp goes out). recirculated air mode thereby
• Turn key in steering lock to increasing the cooling capacity
position 2. performance, switching to partially
fresh air within 20 minutes.

25
8 Air Volume Selector 11 Off Important!

The air volume is automatically The fresh air supply to the car interior This vehicle is equipped with an air
regulated in is shut off. conditioner system that uses HFC-134a
(ozone-friendly hydro-fluorocarbon) as
AUTO = Normal setting While driving, use this setting only a refrigerant.
and all intermediate positions, except temporarily, otherwise the windshield
when selecting could fog up. Repairs should always be performed by
a qualified technician, and refrigerant
MIN = minimum air flow, should be collected in a recovery
MAX = maximum air flow. system for recycling.

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
 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:

Rear Passenger Compartment The rear passenger climate control does Active Charcoal Filter
Climate Control not operate with automatic climate
control in mode or switched off 1 Switch on
1 Temperature selector, left side with button 2 Switch off
2 Temperature selector, right side An active charcoal filter markedly
reduces bad odors and removes
A basic setting in the white field of the pollutants from the air entering the
selector is recommended. passenger compartment.

3 Air volume selector When pressing button or , the

filter is automatically switched off.
The air volume can be varied
continuously. The air flow is switched Note:
off with selector in position "0". 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
Car Keys Master Key We recommend that you carry the flat
key with you and keep it in a safe place
Included with your vehicle are: (e.g. your wallet) so that it is always
handy. Never leave the flat key in the
• 2 Master keys with infrared vehicle.
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
• Valet Key remove the key from the steering
Master Key with Infrared lock. Do not leave children
Remote Control unattended in the vehicle.
Unsupervised use of vehicle
equipment may cause serious
personal injury.

The valet key fits only the door locks Obtaining Replacement Keys
and the steering lock.
Your vehicle is equipped with a theft
The valet key will not fit the trunk lock deterrent locking system requiring a
The master key fits all locks on the car. or storage compartments lock in the special key manufacturing process. For
dashboard. security reasons, replacement keys can
The transmitter for the infrared remote only be obtained from your authorized
control is located in the key holder, the Flat Key Mercedes-Benz dealer.
receivers are located in the door
handles and next to the trunk lock.

The flat key fits all locks on the car.

28
Master Key in Key Holder Infrared Remote Control 3 Receiver in door handle

1 Release button for master key 1 Transmit button Unlocking:

Releasing: press release button (1). The Transmitter eye and battery Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver
key unfolds from the holder by itself. check (3) and press transmit button (1).
Distance to receiver max. 20 ft (6 m).
Storing: press release button (1) and The vehicle can be centrally locked and
fold key back into holder. unlocked, as well as the windows and The green indicator lamps on the
sliding roof closed with infrared remote receivers should blink. They stop
control. blinking when the vehicle is unlocked.

The transmitter is located in the key Note:

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
 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 Continue to press transmit button (1)
by remote control, the red indicator after locking car. The windows and
lamps will continue to blink (max. 10 sliding/pop-up roof begin to close after
seconds). Open the door or trunk lid, approx. 1 second.
close it properly, and lock the car
again. Warning!

If the vehicle cannot be locked or Never close the windows or sliding/

unlocked by pressing the transmit pop-up roof if there is the possibility
button (1), then it may be necessary to of anyone being harmed by the
change the batteries in the transmitter closing procedure.
(if ok, battery indicator lamp in
transmitter will light briefly when In case the closing procedure causes
4 Receiver next to trunk lock transmitting) or to synchronize the potential danger, the closing
system, see Remote Control, Infrared procedure can be immediately
Locking: in Index reversed by turning the key to the
unlocking position (3) within 10
Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver (3) seconds, or releasing and pressing
and press transmit button (1). Distance the remote control button again until
to receiver max. 20 ft (6 m). the green indicator lamps at the
receivers blink. The sliding/ pop-up
The red indicator lamps on the roof and windows will open again.
receivers should blink. They stop The sliding/popup roof will only open
blinking after approximately 3 seconds if it was not fully closed.
when the vehicle is properly locked.

30
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
The entire vehicle may be locked or 2 Unlocking
unlocked by either using the master key 3 Locking
in the door or trunk locks, or central 4 Individual door from inside:
locking switch located in driver's door. • Push lock button down to
The central locking system also locks or lock.
unlocks the fuel filler flap. • Pull lock button up to unlock.
5 Central locking switch
Note:
When you lock the car, all door lock
If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, buttons should move down. If any one
refer to Fuel Filler Flap, Manual stays up, the respective door is not
Release (see Index). properly closed.

31
You should then unlock the car, open Notes:
and recluse this door, and lock the car
again. Each individual door can be In case of a malfunction in the central
locked with door lock button - the locking system the doors and trunk can
driver's door can only be locked when be locked and unlocked individually.
it is closed.
To lock, turn key to position 3 or push
The doors can only be locked with the down lock buttons.
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 Trunk The trunk lid can be lowered by using
previously locked from outside. the recessed grips in the trunk lid liner,
1 Neutral position - push to open and closed with the dirt-free retracting
The entire car is unlocked with the 2 Unlocking handle.
central locking switch, if a front door is 3 Locking (detent)
opened. 4 Separate locking of trunk - If the trunk lid cannot be closed, refer
remove key in this position. to Trunk Lid, Manual Closing (see
If the car has previously been locked Index).
from the outside, only the door being When the trunk is separately locked,
opened from the inside will unlock, the it remains locked when unlocking
remaining doors, the trunk lid and fuel any door.
filler flap remain locked.
To deny any unauthorized person
access to the trunk, lock it
separately. Leave only the valet key
with the vehicle.

32
 When locking doors or trunk, turn key Note:
in door lock or trunk lock to position 1
and hold. The windows and the If the closing procedure is interrupted,
sliding/pop-up roof begin to close it can only be continued by first turning
automatically after approximately 1 the key to the unlocked position (3) and
second. 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
Door lock, left closing procedure.
and trunk lock
In case the closing procedure causes
Power Windows and Sliding/ potential danger, the closing
Pop-Up Roof procedure can be immediately
reversed by turning the key to the
1 Closing unlocking position (3) within 10
2 Interrupting seconds. The sliding/pop-up roof
3 Opening and windows will open again. The
sliding/pop-up roof will only open if
it was not fully closed.

33
Power Closing Assist for Doors and Note: Warning!
Trunk Lid
If the trunk lid does not close, refer to To prevent possible personal injury,
The doors and trunk lid close Trunk Lid, Manual Closing in Index. always keep hands and fingers away
automatically if: from the door or trunk opening
when closing a door or the trunk lid.
• doors are pushed against the lock, Be especially careful when small
children are around.
• trunk lid is lowered against the lock,
The pneumatic power closing assist
It is not necessary to slam doors or mechanism cannot be interrupted
trunk lid closed, a pneumatic power- once it has been engaged.
assisted mechanism will latch doors
and trunk lid quietly and automatically To prevent personal injury, never
once the lid or door has been brought activate the closing assist mechanism
to a close. When the pneumatic power- by tampering with the door or trunk
assisted mechanism has stopped, doors lid latch.
and/or trunk can be reopened.

34
Anti-Theft Alarm System The alarm will last approximately 150 Note:
seconds in the form of blinking exterior
The anti-theft alarm can be armed or lamps. At the same time an additional Do not give the master key to an
disarmed with any of your vehicles horn will sound intermittently for 60 unauthorized person. We recommend
keys or infrared remote control by seconds, pause for 30 seconds, and that you carry the flat key safely with
locking or unlocking either front door repeat for another 60 seconds. The you so that it is always handy. The flat
or the trunk. alarm will stay on even if the activating key has the same functions as the
element (a door, for example) is master key.
Operation immediately closed.

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
 Seat and head restraint adjustment: Warning!

A Seat, fore/aft, up/down Do not adjust the driver's seat while

B Seat tilt driving. Adjusting the seat while
C Seat cushion depth driving could cause the driver to
D Backrest tilt lose control of the vehicle.
E Head restraint Adjust head restraint
to support the back of the head Never ride in a moving vehicle with
approximately at ear level. The head the seat back reclined. Sitting in an
restraint inclination can also be excessively reclined position can be
adjusted manually. dangerous. You could slide under
these at belt in a collision. If you
Note: slide under it, the belt would apply
force at the abdomen or neck. That
Your car is equipped with power could cause serious or even fatal
Power Seats, Front head restraints, do not try to raise or injuries. The seat back and seat
lower them manually. belts provide the best restraint
The slide switches are located in each when the wearer is in an upright
front door. position and belts are properly
positioned on the body.
Turn key in steering lock to position 1
or 2 (with the driver's or front Never place hands under or near
passenger's door open, the power seats any moving parts while a seat is
can also be operated with the key being adjusted.
removed or in steering lock position 0).

36
 Storing seat/head restraint/ steering Recalling seat/head restraint/ steering
wheel/exterior and inside rear view wheel/exterior and inside rear view
mirror positions in memory: mirror positions stored in memory:

Three sets of seat/head restraint/ To recall a seat/head restraint/ steering

steering wheel/exterior and inside rear wheel/exterior and inside rear view
view mirror positions may be mirror position, push and hold position
programmed into memory. After the button "1", "2" or "3" until seat/head
seat/head restraint/steering wheel/ restraint/ steering wheel/exterior and
exterior and inside rear view mirrors inside rear view mirror movement has
are positioned, push memory button F, stopped. The seat/head restraint/
release, and within 3 seconds push steering wheel/exterior and inside rear
position button "1". A second and third view mirror movement stops when the
set of positions for the same seat/ head position button is released.
restraint/steering wheel/ exterior and
F Memory button inside rear view mirrors can be Caution!
G Position buttons programmed into memory by pushing
first button "F" and then "2", Do not remove head restraints except
respectively "3". when mounting seat covers. For
removal and installation refer to Head
Note: Restraints, Removal in Index.
Whenever restraints have been
See Index for instructions on removed be sure to reinstall them
adjustment of steering wheel and before driving.
mirrors.

37
Important! Prior to operating the vehicle, the Fasten seat belts. Infants and small
driver should adjust the seat height for children should be seated in a properly
Bring seat backrest to upright position proper vision as well as fore/aft secured restraint system that complies
before recalling a stored seat/head placement and seat back angle to insure with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle
restraint/steering wheel/exterior and adequate control, reach, operation, and Safety Standard 213 and Canadian
inside rear view mirror position, comfort. The head restraint should also Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.1.
otherwise the front seats could get be adjusted for proper height.
forced against a rear seat and be All seat, head restraint, and rear view
damaged. Both the inside and outside rear view mirror adjustments as well as fastening
mirrors should be adjusted for adequate of seat belts should be done before the
rearward vision. vehicle is put into motion.

38
 The amount of cushion height and The inflation pressure of the air
curvature may be adjusted after turning cushion can be continuously varied
the key in steering lock to position 2. between position "0" = without
pressure, and position "5" = maximum
The seats have inflatable air cushions pressure, by changing the pressure
built into the backrest to provide regulator (2) setting.
additional lumbar and side support.
The side bolsters of the backrest can be
Top adjusted with push button (3):
Center
Bottom • pushing forward-increase side
support,
can be selected together with • pushing backward-decrease side
or support.

Orthopedic Seat Backrest The amount of cushion height and If the engine is turned off, the last
curvature may be adjusted after turning cushion setting is retained in memory,
1 Height regulator the key in steering lock to position 2. and automatically adjusts the cushion
2 Pressure regulator to this setting when the engine is
3 Side bolster adjustment restarted.

39
 The front seat heaters can be switched Note:
on with the key in steering lock
positions 1 or 2, the rear seat heaters When in operation, the seat heater
only in steering lock position 2. consumes a large amount of power. It is
advisable not to use the seat heater
Press switch to turn on heater: longer than necessary.

1 Normal heating mode. One The seat heaters may automatically

indicator lamp in the switch switch off if too many power
lights up. consumers are switched on at the same
time, or if the battery charge is low.
2 Rapid heating mode. Both When this occurs, the indicator lamp in
indicator lamps in the switch the switch will blink (both indicator
light up. lamps blink during rapid seat heating).
The seat heaters will switch on again
After approximately 5 minutes in automatically as soon as sufficient
Heated Seats the rapid heating mode, the heater voltage is available.
automatically switches to normal
The front seat heater switches are operation and only one indicator If the blinking of the indicator lamps is
located to the left and right side of the lamp will stay on. distracting to you, the seat heaters can
center console ashtray. be switched off.
Turning off heater:
The rear seat heater switches are If one indicator lamp is on, press upper
located in each rear door. half of switch.

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
 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 Press button (4) to open cover.

Telephone Handset
Note:
(Front Seats) The cover cannot be opened with
1 Armrest folded down armrest raised above the top comfort
2 Normal use (3 comfort positions) position.
3 Armrest folded up

Folding down:
Raise armrest past top comfort position
and push down.
Adjusting height:
Raise armrest to desired position

41
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
 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
Compartment (Rear Bench Seat) Adjustments of the front passenger
seat from the rear seat should be or rear seat selection.
Pull down the armrest by its strap. made only with caution and due
regard for the proper positioning of Slide switch (1) forward to adjust front
the front passenger seat occupant. passenger seat:
Before storing the armrest in the
backrest, close its storage compartment 2 Seat, fore/aft
lid. 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
 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.

Switch on center console Switches in rear doors

Power Head Restraints, Rear Switch in center console:

Turn key in steering lock to position 1 Both head restraints together can be
or 2 (with the driver's or front placed in either upright and fold down
passenger's door open, the power head position.
restraints can also be operated with the
key removed or in steering lock Switches in rear doors:
position 0).
The head restraints can be placed
Activate switch: individually in either upright or fold-
down position.
1 Place head restraint upright.
Inclination of head restraints:
2 Fold head restraint backward The head restraint inclination can
be adjusted manually.
44
Adjustable Steering Wheel Note:

Turn key in steering lock to position 1 The steering wheel position can be
or 2 (with the driver's or front stored in memory together with the
passenger's door open, the steering seat/head restraint/exterior and inside
wheel can also be operated with the key rear view mirror positions, see Index.
removed or in steering lock position 0).
Warning!
To lengthen or shorten the steering Do not adjust the steering wheel while
column, push in or pull out switch (1). driving. Adjusting the steering wheel
while driving could cause the driver to
To raise or lower steering wheel, push lose control of the vehicle.
switch (1) up or down.

45
Seat Belts and Supplemental Warning! Seat Belt Warning System
Restraint System (SRS)
Never ride in a moving vehicle with With the key in steering lock position
Your vehicle is equipped with seat the seat back reclined. Sitting in an 2, an audible warning sounds for a
belts for all seats, emergency excessively reclined position can be short time if the driver's seat belt is not
tensioning retractors for the front seats, dangerous. You could slide under the fastened.
as well as airbags and knee bolsters for seat belt in a collision. If you slide
driver and front passenger. under it, the belt would apply force Warning!
at the abdomen or neck. That could
Seat Belts cause serious or even fatal injuries. If you are ever in an accident, your
The seat back and seat belts provide injuries can be considerably more
Important! the best restraint when the wearer is severe without your seat belt
in an upright position and belts are properly buckled. Without your seat
Laws in most states and all Canadian properly positioned on the body. belt buckled, you can hit the interior
provinces require seat belt use. of the vehicle or be ejected from it.
You can be seriously injured or
All states and provinces require use of killed.
child restraints that comply with U.S.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard In the same crash, the possibility for
213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle injury or death is lessened with your
Safety Standard 213.1. seat belt buckled.

We strongly recommend their use

46
 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:
1 Latch plate Adjust seat belt so that shoulder portion The rear seat belt buckles can be stored
2 Buckle is located as close as possible to the in the space next to the rear armrest (to
3 Release button middle of your shoulder. Do not twist the left and right of armrest). The rear
the belt. center seat belt should be latched and
Fastening of Seat Belts stored under the armrest.
The shoulder portion of the seat belt
Push latch plate (1) into buckle (2) must be pulled snug and checked for For cleaning and care of the seat belts,
until it clicks. snugness immediately after engaging it. see Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle
The lap belt should be positioned as in Index.
low as possible on your hips and not The height setting for the shoulder
across the abdomen. portion of the front seat belts are Operation:
Three-point seat belt: automatically adjusted by the fore/aft
Tighten the lap portion to a snug movement of the front seat. The inertia reel stops the belt from
fit by pulling shoulder portion up. Seat moved to front: Belt outlet fully unwinding during sudden vehicle stops
Rear center seat belt: lowered. or when quickly pulling on the belt.
Tighten to a snug fit by feeding Seat moved to rear: Belt outlet fully The locking function of the reel may be
belt toward retractor. raised. checked by quickly pulling out the belt.
47
Warning! • Position the lap belt as low as by a lap belt or lap belt portion of
possible on your hips and not a lap-shoulder belt. Children
USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY. across the abdomen. If the belt is could be endangered in an
positioned across your abdomen, accident if their child restraints
• Each occupant should wear their it could cause serious injuries in a are not properly secured in the
seat belt at all times. Together crash. vehicle.
with the "SRS" (airbags, ETR's
and knee bolsters for driver and • Each seat belt should never be • Rear-facing child restraints must
front seat passenger), the seat used for more than one person at not be used in the front seat with
belt offers the best conditions for a time. a passenger side airbag. They
protection of the body in case of could be struck by the airbag
major frontal impact. • Belts should not be worn twisted. when it inflates in a crash. If this
In a crash, you wouldn't have the happens, a child in the restraint
• Improperly positioned seat belts full width of the belt to take could be seriously injured.
do not provide maximum impact forces. The twisted belt
protection and may cause serious against your body could cause • According to accident statistics,
injuries in case of an accident. injuries. children are safer when properly
restrained in the rear seating
• Never wear the shoulder belt • Pregnant women should also use a positions than in the front seating
under your arm, against your lap-shoulder belt. The lap belt positions.
neck or off your shoulder. In a portion should be positioned as
crash, your body would move too low as possible on the hips to • Children too big for child
far forward. That would increase avoid any possible pressure on the restraint systems should ride in
the chance of head and neck abdomen. rear seats using regular seat belts.
injuries. The belt would also apply Position shoulder belt across chest
top much force to the ribs, which USE CHILD RESTRAINTS and shoulder, not face or neck. A
could severely injure internal PROPERLY. booster seat may be necessary to
organs such as your liver or achieve proper belt positioning
spleen • Infants and small children must be
seated in an infant or child
restraint system, which is properly
secured

48
 Seat belt not fastened In cases of other frontal impacts,
roll-overs, certain side impacts, rear
• first threshold exceeded: collisions, or other accidents without
airbag activates, but not ETR frontal forces, the emergency
tensioning retractors will not be
Driver and front passenger systems activated. The driver and passengers
operate independently from each other. will then be protected by the fastened
seat belts and inertia reel in the usual
Emergency Tensioning manner.
Retractor (ETR)
For seat belt and emergency ten-
The seat belts for the front seats are sioning retractor safety guidelines see
equipped with emergency tensioning Safety Guidelines in Index.
retractors. These tensioning retractors
are located in each belt's inertia reel
and become operationally ready with
Supplemental Restraint System the key in steering lock position 1 or 2.
(SRS)
The emergency tensioning retractors
The SRS uses two crash severity levels are designed to activate only when the
(thresholds) to activate either the ETR seat belts are fastened during frontal
or airbag or both. Activation depends and front-angled impacts exceeding the
on exceeding the thresholds and first threshold of the SRS. They re-
fastening of the seat belt. move slack from the belts in such a
way that the seat belts fit more snugly
Seat belt fastened against the body restricting its forward
movement as much as possible.
• first threshold exceeded:
ETR activates
• second threshold exceeded:
airbag also activates

49
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
The following system components are In the event a malfunction of the "SRS" Important!
monitored or undergo a self-check: is indicated as outlined above, the
crash-sensor, airbag ignition circuits, "SRS" may not be operational. We The airbags are designed to activate
driver and passenger seat belt buckles. strongly recommend that you visit an only in certain frontal and front-
Initially, when the key is turned from authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer angled impacts (within the shaded
steering lock position 0 to positions 1 immediately to have the system area shown in the illustration on
or 2, malfunctions in the crash-sensor checked; otherwise the "SRS" may not page 48). Only during these types of
are detected and indicated (the "SRS" be activated when needed. impacts will they provide their
indicator lamp stays on longer than 4 supplemental protection. The driver
seconds). and passenger should always wear
the seat belts, otherwise it is not
In the operational mode, after the possible for the airbags to provide
indicator lamp has gone out following their intended supplemental
the initial check, interruptions and short protection.
circuits in the airbag ignition circuit
and in the driver and passenger seat In cases of other frontal impacts,
belt buckle harnesses, and low voltage roll-overs, certain side impacts, rear
in the entire system are detected and collisions, or other accidents without
indicated. sufficient frontal forces, the airbag
will not be activated. The driver and
passengers will then be protected by
the fastened seat belts.

51
Important! Warning! • Do not lean with your head or
chest close to the steering wheel
The "SRS" is designed to reduce the It is very important for your safety or dashboard.
potential of injury in certain frontal to always be in a properly seated
and front-angled impacts which may position and to wear your seat belt. • Adjust the passenger seat as far
cause injuries, however, no system as possible rearward from the
available today can totally eliminate For maximum protection in the dashboard.
injuries and fatalities. event of a collision always be in
normal seated position with your • Infants and small children should
The activation of the "SRS" back against the seat back. Fasten only be seated in a rear seat and
temporarily releases a small amount your seat belt and ensure that it is be properly secured in a child
of dust from the air-bags. This dust, properly positioned on the body. restraint system.
however, is neither injurious to your
health, nor does it indicate a fire in Since the airbag inflates with • Rear-facing child restraints must
the vehicle. considerable speed and force, a not be used in a front seat with a
proper seating position will keep you passenger side airbag.
The service life of the airbags extends in a safe distance from the airbag:
to the date indicated on the label Failure to follow these instructions
located on the driver-side door latch • Sit properly belted in an upright can result in severe injuries to you or
post. To provide continued reliability position with your back against other occupants.
after that date, they should be the seat back.
inspected by an authorized Mercedes-
Benz dealer at that time and replaced
when necessary.

52
Safety Guidelines for the Seat Belt, • The "SRS" is designed to function • Improper work on the system,
Emergency Tensioning Retractor on a one-time-only basis. An including incorrect installation
and Airbag airbag or emergency tensioning and removal, can lead to possible
retractor (ETR) that was injury through an uncontrolled
Warning! activated must be replaced. activation of the "SRS".

• Damaged belts or belts that were • No modifications of any kind may • In addition, through improper
highly stressed in an accident must be made to any components or work there is the risk of
be replaced and their anchoring wiring of the "SRS". This rendering the "SRS" inoperative.
points must also be checked. Use includes the installation of Work on the "SRS" must
only belts installed or supplied by additional trim material, badges therefore only be performed by
an authorized Mercedes-Benz etc. over the steering wheel hub or an authorized Mercedes-Benz
dealer. front passenger airbag cover and dealer.
installation of additional
• Do not pass belts over sharp edges. electrical/electronic equipment on • When scrapping the airbag
or near "SRS" components and unit or emergency tensioning
• Do not make any modification that wiring. retractor, it is mandatory to
could change the effectiveness of follow our safety instructions.
the belts. • Several airbag system components These instructions are available
at the steering wheel get hot after at your authorized Mercedes-
the airbag has inflated. Don't try Benz dealer.
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
Infant and Child Restraint Warning! Children too big for child restraint
Systems systems should ride in rear seats
According to accident statistics, using regular seat belts. Position
We recommend that all infants and children are safer when properly shoulder belt across chest and
children be restrained at all times while restrained in the rear seating positions shoulder, not face or neck. A booster
the vehicle is in motion. than in the front seating positions. seat may be necessary to achieve
proper belt positioning.
Important! Rear-facing child restraints must not
be used in the front passenger seat. When the child restraint is not in
The use of infant or child restraints is They could be struck by the airbag use, remove it from the car or secure
required by law in all 50 states and all when it inflates in a crash. If this it with the seat belt to prevent the
Canadian provinces. happens, a child in the restraint could child restraint from becoming a
be seriously injured. projectile in the event of an accident.
Infants and small children should be
seated in an infant or child restraint Infants and small children should U.S.A. Models only:
system, which is properly secured by a never be held on the lap while the
lap belt or lap belt portion of a lap- vehicle is in motion. During an Since 1986 all U.S. child restraints
shoulder belt, and that complies with accident they would be almost comply with U.S. regulations without
U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety impossible to hold, and could be the use of a tether strap.
Standard 213 and Canadian Motor crushed between the adult and the
Vehicle Safety Standard 213.1. A state- dashboard. Canada Models only:
ment by the child restraint manu-
facturer of compliance with this Infants and small children should This vehicle can be equipped with
standard can be found on the never share a seat belt with another tether anchorages for a top tether strap.
instruction label on the restraint and in occupant. During an accident, they Consult your authorized Mercedes-
the instruction manual provided with could be crushed between the Benz dealer for installation of these
the restraint. occupant and seat belt. anchorages.

When using any infant or child restraint In compliance with Canadian Motor
system, be sure to carefully read and Vehicle Safety Standard 210.1, child
follow all manufacturer's instructions restraint tether anchorage hardware is
for installation and use. attached to the tool kit located in the
trunk.
54
 1 Steering is unlocked. rear window defroster,
(If necessary, move steering wheel power windows,
slightly to allow the key to be power seats, front,
turned clockwise to position 1.) heated seats, front,
2 Preglow and driving position. adjustable steering wheel.
3 Starting position.
An audible warning will sound when
Refer to Index for Starting and turning the driver's door is opened with the key
off the engine. in steering lock position 1 or 0.

Warning! With the engine at idle speed, the

charging rate of the alternator (output)
When leaving the vehicle always is limited.
remove the key from the steering
lock. Do not leave children It is therefore recommended to turn off
Steering Lock unattended in the vehicle. unnecessary electrical consumers while
Unsupervised use of vehicle driving in stop-and-go traffic. This
0 The key can be withdrawn in this equipment may cause serious precaution helps to avoid draining of
position only. The steering is locked personal injury. the battery.
with the key removed from the
steering lock. The key can be Notes: Unnecessary strain on the battery and
removed only with the selector lever charging system may be minimized by
in position "P". After removing the The following items can be operated turning off the following power
key or with the key in steering lock with the key in steering lock position 1: consumers, for example: Heated seats,
position 0, the selector lever is wiper, rear window defroster. In addition, the
locked in position "P". headlamp flasher, automatic climate air volume control
lighter, should be set to "MIN"
glove box lamp,
radio (also in position 0),
sliding roof,

55
 Press switch past resistance point:
Windshield washer, windshield
wiper; headlamp cleaning system
(only in exterior lamp switch
positions or Canada only:
also in position when the engine
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

Combination Switch To signal minor directional changes, slower than approx. 16 mph (25
such as changing lanes on a highway, km/h), the wiper speed
1 Low beam (exterior lamp move combination switch to the point automatically switches to the next
switch position ) of resistance only and hold it there. lower setting.
2 High beam (exterior lamp To operate the turn signals In setting "I", the interval between
switch position ) continuously, move the combination wipes is lengthened.
switch past the point of resistance (up
3 High beam flasher (high beam or down). The switch is automatically Upon accelerating again, the wiper
available independent of canceled when the steering wheel is speed returns to the previous setting.
exterior lamp switch position) turned to a large enough degree.
Note:
4 Turn signals, right 6 Press switch briefly:
One wipe without washer water The windshield washer reservoir,
5 Turn signals, left (select only if window is wet) hoses and nozzles are automatically
heated.

56
Windshield Washer Fluid Mixing Blocked Windshield Wiper Signaling Turns with Hazard
Ratio Flasher in Use
If the windshield wiper becomes
For temperatures above freezing: blocked (for example, due to snow), For example, when the vehicle is being
switch off the wiper motor. towed (key in steering lock turned to
MB Windshield Washer position 2):
Concentrate "S" and water For safety reasons before removing ice
or snow, remove key from steering lock. With hazard flasher on, activate
1 part "S" to 100 parts water (40 ml "S" Remove blockage. combination switch for left or right
to 1 gallon water). turn signal - only the selected turn
For temperature below freezing: Activate combination switch again signal will blink.
(key in steering lock position 1).
MB Windshield Washer Concentrate Upon canceling the turn signal, the
"S" and commercially available Emergency Operation of hazard flasher will operate again.
premixed windshield washer Windshield Wiper
solvent/antifreeze Turn Signal Failure
In case of windshield wiper malfunction
1 part "S" to 100 parts solvent (40 ml in switch positions I or III, turn If one of the turn signals fails, the turn
"S" to 1 gallon solvent). combination switch to wiper setting II. signal indicator system flashes and
sounds at a faster than normal rate. In
Windshield Wiper Smears Have the system checked at your addition, the exterior lamp failure
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as indicator will come on.
If the windshield wiper smears the soon as possible.
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
 Off Standing Lamps

Parking lamps (also side When the vehicle is parked on the

marker lamps, taillamps, street the standing lamps (right or left
license plate lamps, side parking lamps) can be turned on,
instrument panel lamps) making the vehicle more visible to
Canada only: When the passing vehicles.
engine is running, the low
beam is additionally The standing lamps cannot be operated
switched on. with the key in steering lock position 2.

Parking lamps plus low Note:

beam or high beam
headlamps (combination With the key removed and a front door
switch pushed forward) open, an audible warning will sound if
Exterior Lamp Switch Standing lamps, right the vehicle's exterior lamps (except
(turn left one stop) standing lamps) are not switched off.
Canada only: Standing lamps, left
(turn left two stops) Fog lamps will operate with the
When the engine is running, the low parking lamps and the low or high
beam (includes parking lamps, side Fog lamps beam headlamps. Fog lamps should
marker lamps, tail lamps, license plate (pull out one stop) with only be used in conjunction with low
lamps and instrument panel lamps) are parking beam headlamps. Consult your state
automatically switched on. and/or headlamps on Motor Vehicle Regulations regarding
allowable lamp operation.
Note: Rear fog lamp (pull out to
2nd detent) in addition to Fog lamps are automatically switched
For nighttime driving the exterior lamp fog lamps. Indicator lamp off when the exterior lamp switch is
switch should be turned to position in lamp switch comes on. turned to position O •
to permit activation of the high beam
headlamps

58
 Exterior rear view mirror, left
Inside and Exterior Rear View The switch is located on the Exterior rear view mirror, right
Mirrors center console.
Exterior Rear View Mirrors
Inside Rear View Mirror Turn key in steering lock to position 2
(with either front door open, the mirror Turn key in steering lock to position 2
The mirror is electrically adjustable. can be operated with key removed or (with either front door open, the mirrors
in steering lock position 0 or 1). can be operated with key removed or in
Antiglare night position: Tilt the mirror steering lock position 0 or 1).
to the antiglare night position using the Turn switch to position .
lever at its lower edge. Turn switch to select the mirror to be
To adjust, move the switch forward, adjusted.
Use your inside mirror to determine the backward or to either side.
size and distance of objects seen in the To adjust, move the switch forward,
passenger side convex mirror. backward or to either side.

59
Note: Exterior Rear View Mirror
The exterior mirrors have electrically Multiple Images
heated glass. The heater switches on This vehicle is equipped with anti-
automatically, depending on outside fogging dual-pane side windows to
temperature. provide extra insulation against heat,
If an exterior mirror housing is forcibly cold and noise. Because of the second
pivoted from its normal position, it pane of glass, under certain light and
must be repositioned by applying firm weather conditions a multiple image
pressure until it snaps into place. may become noticeable, especially
when looking through the side
windows at an outside rear view
Warning! mirror.
Exercise care when using the
passenger-side mirror. The Storing Mirror Positions in
passenger-side exterior mirror is Memory
convex (outwardly curved surface The exterior and inside rear view Folding the mirrors in:
for a wider field of view). Objects in mirror positions are stored in memory
mirror are closer than they appear. Turn switch to point rearward. Press
with the seat/head restraint/ steering switch rearward until the mirrors are
Check your inside rear view mirror column position and can be’ recalled
or glance over your shoulder before folded in.
when necessary, see Index.
changing lanes. Folding the mirrors out:
Note: Turn switch to point rearward. Press
If the inside rear view mirror was switch forward until the mirrors are
adjusted separately, the originally folded out.
stored position remains in memory. To
recall position, press the desired
position button.

60
 Sun Visors Illuminated Vanity Mirrors Rear seats:
Swing sun visors down to protect Front seats:
Touch the cover to lower the mirror.
against sun glare. With the visor engaged in its inner The lamp will switch on automatically.
If sunlight enters through a side mounting, the lamp can be switched on Close the cover and the lamp will go
window, disengage visor from inner by opening the cover. out.
mounting and pivot to the side. From
this position, the visor can slide
forward and backward on its shaft.

61
 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
Interior Lighting Note: 5 Reading Lamps, Rear
1 Interior Lamps (Door contact) The courtesy lamps cannot be The lamps are switched on and off
switched off as long as a rear door individually with a switch in the
is open. respective lamp.
A B 4 Reading Lamps, Front Entrance Lamps, Exit Lamps
A Interior lamps are switched on, A The lamps are switched on and off by
and off delayed, when unlocking the door contact switches.
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
B Interior lamps switched off A Reading lamp switched off
B Reading lamp switched on
62
 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 Storage Compartments in the Door
Dashboard Locking:
Turn master key in lock (5) to the 1 Door pocket
1 Storage/eyeglasses right and remove.
compartment To open:
Unlocking: Fold down cover.
2 Button for storage/ Turn master key back to vertical
eyeglasses compartment position. 2 Compartment for
3 Glove box compact umbrella.
4 Button for glove box
5 Lock

63
in center console, front in rear doors Lighter
Turn key in steering lock to
Ashtrays To remove ashtray from rear door: Hold position 1 or 2.
By touching the top of the cover left and right side of insert and pull up.
Push in lighter (1); it will pop out
lightly, the ashtray opens To install ashtray: automatically when hot.
automatically. Install insert into ashtray frame
To remove ashtray from center and push down to engage. Warning!
console: Never touch the heating element or
Push sliding knob (1) toward the sides of the lighter, hold at knob
right to eject the insert.
only

64
 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.

Sliding Roof with Rear Pop-Up Turn key in steering lock to position 1 Notes:
Feature or 2 (with either front door open, the
sliding/pop-up roof can be operated The sliding roof can be opened or
1 to slide roof open with key removed or in steering lock closed manually should an electrical
2 to slide roof closed position 0). malfunction occur, refer to Emergency
3 to raise roof at rear Operation in Index.
4 to lower roof at rear The switch is illuminated when the
exterior lamps are switched on (except The sliding roof can also be closed
standing lamps). with the key or infrared remote control
while locking the vehicle doors (see
Central Locking System in Index).

65
 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
in center console, front becomes visible.
in rear doors
Power Windows Warning!
Turn key in steering lock to When closing the windows, be sure
Switches for: position 1 or 2. that there is no danger of anyone
being harmed by the closing
1 left, front Press switch in to resistance point: procedure.
2 left, rear to close
3 right, front to open The automatic interrupt will not
4 right, rear operate if a window is being closed
5 safety switch Release switch when window is in by pressing the switch to its
6 individual switches (rear doors) desired position. 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

66
The power windows can also be closed Note:
with the key or infrared remote control
while locking the vehicle doors (see The rear window defroster uses a large
Central Locking System in Index). amount of power. To keep the battery
drain to a minimum, turn off the
Warning! defroster as soon as the window is
clear.
When leaving the vehicle, always
remove the key from the steering The defroster is automatically turned
lock. Do not leave children off after a maximum of 20 minutes of
unattended in the vehicle. operation.
Unsupervised use of vehicle
equipment can cause serious Heavy accumulation of snow and ice
personal injury. should be removed before activating
the defroster.
Note:
Rear Window Defroster If several power consumers are turned
If the side windows cannot be fully The switch is located in the center on simultaneously, or the battery is
opened or closed automatically by console. only partially charged, it is possible
pressing the button past the point of that the defroster will automatically
resistance (e.g. after a vehicle battery Turn key in steering lock to turn itself off. When this happens, the
change), press down side of power position 1 or 2. indicator lamp inside the switch starts
window switch until the window is blinking.
completely closed and hold for When activating the rear window
additional 2 seconds. Repeat procedure defroster, the indicator lamp in the As soon as the battery has sufficient
for each window. switch will come on. voltage, the defroster automatically
turns itself back on.
The automatic full opening and closing
procedure of the windows should now
be restored.

67
 Adjusting clock one minute ahead or Antenna
back:
The antenna extends when switching
Pull out adjustment knob, briefly on the radio and/or telephone.
turn to the right respectively left and
release knob. Note:

Adjusting clock more than one minute To retract the antenna (e.g. when
ahead or back: Pull out adjustment entering a car wash) both radio and
knob, turn to the right respectively left telephone must be switched off.
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.
Setting Clock
1 Knob for setting clock

68
Driving

69
Drinking and Driving Driving Off
Warning! Test the brakes briefly after driving off.
Perform this procedure only when the
Drinking and driving can be a very road is clear of other traffic.
dangerous combination. Even a small
amount of alcohol or drugs can affect Warm up the engine smoothly. Do not
your reflexes, perceptions and place full load on the engine until the
judgement. operating temperature has been
reached.
The possibility of a serious or even
fatal accident is sharply increased When starting off on a slippery surface,
when you drink and drive. do not allow one driving wheel to spin
for an extended period.
Please don't drink and drive or allow Parking Brake
anyone to drive after drinking. Warning!
To engage, firmly depress parking brake
pedal. When the key is in steering lock Keep driver's foot area clear at all
position 2, the brake warning lamp in times. Objects stored in this area
the instrument cluster should come on may impair pedal movement.
brightly.
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.

70
Automatic Transmission the brake until ready to drive. The Accelerator position
vehicle may otherwise start creeping
The automatic transmission selects when the selector lever is in drive or Partial throttle = early up shifting
individual gears automatically, reverse position. = normal acceleration
dependent upon
Warning! Full throttle = later up shifting =
• Selector lever position rapid acceleration
• Accelerator position It is dangerous to shift the selector
• Vehicle speed lever out of "P" or "N" if the engine Kick down (depressing the accelerator
speed is higher than idle speed. If beyond full throttle) = downshifting to
Important! your foot is not on the brake pedal, next lowest gear = maximum
the car could accelerate quickly acceleration. Once the desired speed is
When parking the car and before forward or in reverse. You could lose attained, ease up on the accelerator -
working on the vehicle with the engine control of the car and hit someone or the transmission shifts up again
running, firmly depress the parking something. Only shift info gear when
brake pedal and shift the selector lever the engine is idling normally and
into "P". when your right foot is firmly on the
brake pedal.
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

71
 With the key removed, the selector 3 Up shift to 3rd gear only. Suitable
lever is locked in position "P". for moderately steep hills.

R Reverse gear. 2 Up shift to 2nd gear only. For

Shift to reverse gear only with the driving in mountainous regions.
car stopped. Since the transmission does not
shift higher than 2nd gear, this gear
N Neutral. selection will allow use of the
No power is transmitted from the engine's braking power downhill.
engine to the rear axle. When the
brakes are released, the vehicle can B In this position, the engine's braking
be moved freely (pushed or towed). effect is utilized by shifting into 1st
Do not engage "N" while driving gear. Use this position while
except to coast when the vehicle is descending very steep or lengthy
Selector Lever Positions in danger of skidding (e.g. on icy downgrades and only at speeds
roads, see Winter Driving below 40 mph (60 km/h).
The automatic gear shifting Instructions in Index).
process can be adapted to specific Important!
operating conditions using the Important!
selector lever. With selector lever in position "D" or
Coasting the vehicle, or driving for "3", up shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear is
P Parking lock. any other reason with selector lever delayed depending on vehicle speed
The parking lock is an additional in "N", can result in transmission and engine temperature. This allows
safeguard to the parking brake when damage that is not covered by the the catalytic converter to heat up more
parking the vehicle. Engage only Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. quickly to operating temperatures.
with the car stopped. During the brief warm-up period this
D The transmission automatically up delayed up shift and increased engine
Note: shifts to 4th gear. Position "D" noise might be perceived as a
The key can be removed from the provides optimum driving malfunction. However, neither the
steering lock only with the selector characteristics under all normal engine nor transmission are
lever in position "P". operating conditions.

72
negatively affected by this mode of To prevent the engine from laboring at Stopping
operation. low RPMs, do not allow the engine
speed to drop too low on uphill For brief stops, e.g. at traffic lights,
The delayed up shift is effective with gradients. leave the transmission in gear and hold
vehicle speeds below 31 mph (50 vehicle with the service brake.
km/h) at partial throttle and engine Depending on the degree of the incline,
temperatures below 95°F (35°C). shift selector lever to a lower gear early For longer stops with the engine idling,
enough to maintain engine RPM within shift into "N" or "P".
Do not exceed the vehicle speed limits the best torque range.
for individual gear selections, which When stopping the car on an uphill
are indicated by marks (I, II, III etc.) on Maneuvering incline, do not hold it with the
the circumference of the speedometer. accelerator, use the brake. This avoids
To maneuver in tight areas, e.g. when unnecessary transmission heat build up.
Do not brake the vehicle by pulling into parking space, control the
downshifting to a lower gear (for car speed by gradually releasing the Warning!
example from "D" to "3") unless the brakes. Accelerate gently and never
speedometer needle is below the speed abruptly step on the accelerator. Getting out of your car with the
limit mark of that particular gear range. selector lever not fully engaged in
Over revving could result in serious To rock a car out of soft ground (mud position "P" is dangerous. When
damage to the engine. or snow), alternately shift from forward parked on an incline, position "P"
to reverse, while applying slight partial alone may not prevent your vehicle
Warning! throttle. from moving, possibly hitting people
or objects.
On slippery road surfaces, never Rocking a car free in this manner may
downshift in order to obtain braking cause the ABS warning lamp to come Always set the parking brake in
action. This could result in rear on. Turn off and restart the engine to addition to shifting to position "P".
wheel slip and reduced vehicle clear the malfunction indication.
control. Your vehicle's ABS will not When parked on an incline, also turn
prevent this type of loss of control downhill side of front wheel against
This applies particularly for position curb
"B".

73
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 Speed is set by briefly pushing the
upward from the rear corners of the lever to position 1 or 2. The accelerator
fenders. can be released.

The rear fender indicators retract The speed can be increased (e.g. for
delayed when shifting out of reverse. passing) by using the accelerator. As
They retract immediately when turning soon as the accelerator is released, the
key in steering lock to position 0. 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
Cruise Control 2 until the desired speed is reached, or
briefly tip the control lever in the
Any given speed above approximately appropriate direction for increases or
25 mph (40 km/h) can be maintained decreases in 0.6 mph (1 km/h)
with the cruise control by operating the increments. When the lever is released,
lever. 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
3 Canceling Note: Warning!

To cancel the cruise control, briefly If the engine does not brake the vehicle Only use the cruise control if the
push lever to position 3. sufficiently while driving on a traffic and weather conditions make
downgrade, the speed you set on the it advisable to travel at a steady
When you step on the brake or the cruise control may be exceeded and speed.
vehicle speed drops below approx. you may have to step on the brake
25 mph (40 km/h), for example pedal to slow down. As soon as the • The use of cruise control can be
when driving upgrade, the cruise grade eases, the cruise controlled speed dangerous on winding roads or in
control will be canceled. will again -be maintained as long as the heavy traffic because conditions
brakes were not previously applied, or do not allow safe driving at a
If the cruise control cancels by itself the lever may be used to resume the steady speed.
and remains inoperative until the previously set speed if the brakes were
engine is restarted, have the system applied. • The use of cruise control can be
checked at your authorized dangerous on slippery roads.
Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as Caution! Rapid changes in tire adhesion
possible. can result in wheel spin and loss
When driving with the cruise control, of control.
4 Resume the transmission selector lever must not
be shifted to position "N" as otherwise The "Resume" function should only
If the lever is briefly pushed to the engine will overrev. be operated if the driver is fully
position 4 when driving at a speed aware of the previously set speed
exceeding approx. 25 mph (40 km/h), and wishes to resume this particular
the vehicle resumes the speed which preset speed.
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
Charge Indicator Lamp Oil Pressure Gauge with Oil There is no need for concern should the
Pressure Warning Lamp oil pressure warning lamp light up
Should the charge indicator lamp fail to briefly, (for example, in sharp turns or
come on prior to starting when the key With the key in steering lock position hard braking) provided the lamp goes
is in steering lock position 2 or should 2, the oil pressure warning lamp comes out immediately. We recommend you
it fail to go out after starting or come on and should go out when the engine to drive to the nearest service station
while the engine is running, this is running. where the engine oil should be topped
indicates a fault which must be repaired to the "full" mark on the dipstick with
at an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer The oil pressure at idle speed may an approved oil.
immediately. drop if the engine is at operating
temperature. This will not jeopardize
If the charge indicator lamp comes on the engine's operational reliability.
while the engine is running, this may Pressure must, however, rise
indicate that the poly-V-belt has broken. immediately upon acceleration.
Should this condition occur, the poly-V-
belt must be replaced before continuing Note:
to operate the vehicle. Otherwise, the
engine will overheat due to an If the oil pressure warning lamp does
inoperative water pump which may not go out after starting the engine or
result in damage to the engine. 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.

76
Low Engine Oil Level Warning If no oil leaks are noted and there is no Engine Oil Consumption
Lamp loss in engine oil pressure, continue to
drive to the nearest service station Engine oil consumption checks should
With the key in steering lock position where the engine oil should be topped only be made after the break-in period.
2, the oil level warning lamp comes on to the "full" mark on the dipstick with During the break-in period, higher oil
and should go out when the engine is an approved oil. consumption may be noticed and is
running. normal. Frequent driving at high
In addition to the warning lamp, the engine speeds results in increased
If the warning lamp comes on with the engine oil level should be periodically consumption.
engine running and at operating checked with the dipstick, for example
temperature, the engine oil level has during a fuel stop, or before a long trip. Fuel Consumption Gauge
dropped to approximately the minimum See Index.
mark on the dipstick. While driving, current fuel
consumption is indicated in miles per
When this occurs, the warning lamp gallon (mpg), or in Canada liters per
will first come on intermittently and 100 kilometers (1/100 km).
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.

77
Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp Warning! Warning!

With the key in steering lock position The outside temperature indicator is • Driving when your engine is badly
2, the fuel reserve warning lamps come not designed to serve as an Ice- overheated can cause some fluids
on and should go out when the engine Warning Device and is therefore un- which may have leaked into the
is running. suitable for that purpose. Indicated engine compartment to catch fire.
temperatures just above the freezing You could be seriously burned.
If the warning lamps do not go out point do not guarantee that the road Turn off the engine and get out of
after starting the engine or if they come surface is free of ice. the car until it cools down.
on while driving, it indicates that the
fuel level is down to the reserve Coolant Temperature Gauge • Steam from an overheated engine
quantity of approx. 3.3 gal (12.5 liters). can cause serious burns and can
If the antifreeze mixture is effective to occur just by opening the engine
Outside Temperature Indicator -22°F (-30°C), the boiling point of the hood. Stay away from the engine
coolant in the pressurized cooling if you see or hear steam coming
The temperature sensor is located in system of your vehicle is approx. from it. Turn off the engine and
the front bumper area. Due to its 266°F (130°C). do not stand near the car until it
location, the sensor can be affected by cools down.
road or engine heat during idling or During severe operating conditions
slow driving. This means that the and stop-and-go city traffic, the
accuracy of the displayed temperature coolant temperature may rise close to
can only be verified by comparison to a the red marking.
thermometer placed next to the sensor,
not by comparison to external displays The engine should not be operated with
(e.g. bank signs etc.). 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.

78
Low Engine Coolant Level Note: Low Windshield and Headlamp
Warning Lamp Washer System Fluid Level
Do not drive without coolant in the Warning Lamp
With the key in steering lock position cooling system. The engine will
2, the warning lamp comes on and goes overheat causing major engine damage. With the key in steering lock position
out when the engine is running. 2, the warning lamp comes on and
Monitor the coolant temperature gauge goes out when the engine is running.
If the warning lamp does not go out while driving.
after starting the engine, or if it comes If the warning lamp comes on with the
on while driving, then the coolant level Warning! engine running, the level of the
has dropped below the required level. reservoir has dropped to approx. 1/4 of
If no leaks are noticeable and the Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine the total volume. The reservoir should
engine temperature does not increase, parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene be refilled with MB Windshield
continue to drive to the nearest service glycol which may burn if it comes Washer Concentrate "S" and water (or
station and have coolant added to the into contact with hot engine parts. commercially available premixed
coolant system. See Index. You can be seriously burned. windshield washer solvent/antifreeze,
depending on ambient temperature -
In cases of major or frequent minor see Index) at the next opportunity. The
coolant loss, have the cooling system reservoir for the windshield and
checked at your authorized Mercedes- headlamp washer system is located in
Benz dealer as soon as possible. the engine compartment next to the
radiator.
The fluid level can be checked visually
at the sight glass located next to the
reservoir filler cap

79
Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator Seat Belt Warning Lamp Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp
Lamp
With the key in steering lock position The brake pad wear indicator lamp in
With the key in steering lock position 2, the warning lamp comes on and an the instrument cluster comes on when
2, a dim indicator lamp comes on, and audible warning sounds for a short time the key in the steering lock is turned to
goes out when the engine is running. if the driver's seat belt is not fastened. position 2 and goes out when the
With the key in steering lock position 2 engine is running.
or with the engine running, a bright After starting the engine, the warning
illumination of this lamp indicates an lamp blinks for a brief period to remind If the indicator lamp lights up during
exterior lamp failure. the driver and passengers to fasten seat braking, this indicates that the front
belts before driving off. wheel brake pads are worn down.
If an exterior lamp fails, the indicator
lamp will come on only when that lamp Have the brake system checked at your
is switched on. 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.

80
Brake Warning Lamp Warning! When the minimum mark on the
reservoir is reached, have the brake
The brake warning lamp will come on Driving with the brake warning system checked for brake pad thickness
with the key in steering lock position 2 lamp on can result in an accident. and leaks.
and should go out when the engine is Have your brake system checked
running. immediately if the brake warning To test the brake warning lamp, turn
lamp stays on. Don't add brake fluid key in steering lock to position 2. The
The brake warning lamp will come on: before checking the brake system. brake warning lamp comes on, and
Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir should go out when the engine is
• when there is insufficient brake can result in spilling brake fluid on running.
fluid in the reservoir (engine hot engine parts and the brake fluid
running and parking brake catching fire. You can be seriously
released) burned.

• when the parking brake is set

(engine running).

81
Antilock Brake System (ABS) The ABS warning lamp in the Warning!
instrument cluster comes on with the
The ABS prevents the wheels from key in steering lock position 2 and Even the ABS cannot prevent the
locking up above a vehicle speed of should go out when the engine is natural laws of physics from acting
approximately 2 mph (3 km/h) running. on the vehicle. The ABS cannot
independent of road surface conditions. prevent accidents, including those
It is necessary, however, that the If the charging voltage falls below 10 resulting from excessive speed in
vehicle speed reaches at least 5 mph volts, the warning lamp comes on and turns, following another vehicle too
(8 km/h) before commencing to brake. the ABS is switched off. When the closely, or aquaplaning. Only a safe,
voltage is above this value again, the attentive, and skillful driver can
At the instant one of the wheels is warning lamp should go out and the prevent accidents. The capabilities of
about to lock up, a slight pulsation can ABS will be operational. an ABS equipped car must never be
be felt in the brake pedal, indicating exploited in a reckless or dangerous
that the ABS is in the regulating mode. If the ABS warning lamp does not go manner which could jeopardize the
out or comes on while driving, it user's safety or the safety of others.
On slippery road surfaces, the ABS indicates that the ABS has detected a
will respond even with only slight malfunction and has switched off. In
brake pedal pressure. The pulsating this case, the brake system functions in
brake pedal can be an indication of the usual manner, but without antilock
hazardous road conditions and assistance.
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
Acceleration Slip Control (ASR) The mode is canceled in memory
above 37 mph (60 km/h) and the
The acceleration slip control will engage indicator lamp in the switch goes out,
at all vehicle speeds, if one or both drive To switch off: press lower half of
wheels begin to lose traction and spin. switch (the indicator lamp in the switch
While engaged, the yellow function goes out).
indicator in the speedometer lights up.
Notes:
With the acceleration slip control engaged,
the brake is applied to the spinning drive With the key in steering lock position
wheel until it regains sufficient traction. 2, the yellow function indicator lamp
If both drive wheels lose traction and spin, and the yellow ASR warning lamp in
the brake is applied to both drive wheels the instrument cluster come on. They
and simultaneously, engine torque is must go out when the engine is
limited. running.

As traction on the road surface increases, Snow chain switch If the ASR warning lamp comes on
the allowable engine torque also increases with the engine running, a malfunction
again and the brake is no longer applied to Driving with Snow Chains has been detected. Pressing the
drive wheels. accelerator pedal will require greater
When driving with snow chains, effort. Only 2/3 of engine output is
press the upper half of the snow chain available.
switch, located on the instrument
panel (the indicator lamp in the Have the acceleration slip control
switch comes on). 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
Driving the vehicle with different Adaptive Damping System
size tires will cause the wheels to rotate (ADS)
at different speeds, therefore the
acceleration slip control will activate Depending upon road surface
(yellow ASR function indicator lamp in conditions, load, driving style, ADS
instrument cluster comes on). For this will automatically adjust the optimal
reason, all wheels, including the spare ride firmness.
wheel, must have the same tire size.
The indicator lamp comes on with the
In winter operation, the maximum key in steering lock position 2 and goes
effectiveness of the acceleration slip out when the engine is running.
control is only achieved with M + S
radial tires. If the indicator lamp stays on after the
engine is running or comes on while
The brake pad wear warning lamp driving, then the system has
indicates brake pad wear for the detected a malfunction. Adaptive Damping System
front as well as the rear brakes. Adjustment
We recommend that you visit an
Caution! authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as The switch is located in the center
soon as possible to have the system console.
If the vehicle is towed with the front checked-out.
axle raised (see Towing the vehicle in 1 Firm damping program. This setting
Index), the key must not be in steering Note: should be used for sporty driving.
lock position 2. Otherwise, the During the setting for sporty driving
acceleration slip control will If the battery was disconnected, the the indicator lamp in the switch
immediately be engaged and will apply indicator lamp will only go out after lights up.
the rear wheel brakes. the engine is started and the steering
wheel is turned from full left - to- full 2 Soft damping program. This setting
right lock and returned to the center should be used for regular driving.
position.

84
Emission Control Warning! On-Board Diagnostic System
(California models only)
Certain systems of the engine serve to Inhalation of exhaust gas is
keep the toxic components of the hazardous to your health. All The LH control unit monitors
exhaust gases within permissible limits exhaust gas contains carbon emission control components that
required by law. monoxide, and inhaling it can cause either provide input signals to or
unconsciousness and lead to death. receive output signals from the control
These systems, of course, will function unit. Malfunctions resulting from
properly only when maintained strictly Do not run the engine in confined interruptions or failure of any of these
according to factory specifications. areas (such as a garage) which are components are indicated by the
Any adjustments on the engine should, not properly ventilated. If you think "CHECK ENGINE" indicator lamp
therefore, be carried out only by that exhaust gas fumes are entering in the instrument cluster and are
qualified Mercedes-Benz technicians. the vehicle while driving, have the simultaneously stored in the LH control
Engine adjustments should not be cause determined and corrected unit.
altered in any way. Moreover, the immediately. If you must drive
specified service and maintenance jobs under these conditions, drive only If the "CHECK ENGINE" indicator
must be carried out regularly according with at least one window fully open. lamp comes on, have the system
to Mercedes-Benz servicing checked at your authorized
requirements. For details refer to the Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as
Maintenance Booklet. possible.

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
Traveling Abroad • Additive for the windshield washer Snow Chains
and headlamp cleaning system: Add
Abroad, there is a widely-spread MB Concentrate "S" to a premixed Use only snow chains that are tested
Mercedes-Benz service network at your windshield washer solvent/ and recommended by Mercedes-Benz.
disposal. If you plan to travel into areas antifreeze which is formulated for Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer
which are not listed in the index of below freezing temperatures (see will be glad to advise you on this
your dealer directory, you should Index). subject.
request pertinent information from your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. • Test battery: Battery capacity drops Chains should only be used on the rear
with decreasing ambient wheels. Follow the manufacturer's
Winter Driving temperature. A well charged battery mounting instructions.
ensures that the engine can always
Have your car winterized at your be started, even at low ambient After driving a short distance, retighten
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer temperatures. the mounted chains.
before the onset of winter.
• Tires: We recommend M + S radial Snow chains should only be driven on
• Change the engine oil if the engine tires on all four wheels for the snow covered roads at speeds not to
contains an oil which is not winter season. Observe permissible exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). Remove
approved for winter operation. For maximum speed for M + S radial chains as soon as possible when driving
viscosity (SAE class) and filling tires and the legal speed limit. on roads without snow.
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/ In winter operation, the maximum
antifreeze concentration. effectiveness of the acceleration slip When driving with snow chains, press
control is only achieved with M + S the snow chain switch, refer
radial tires. to Index.

86
Practical Hints

87
 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 • with the engine running,
radiator grill and open hood (do not
To open: pull up on handle). • while starting the engine,
To unlock the hood, pull release lever
(1) under the driver's side of the To close: • if the ignition is "on" and the
instrument panel. At the same time Lower hood and let it drop into lock engine is turned manually.
handle (2) will extend out of the from a height of approx. 1 ft (30 cm),
radiator grill (it may be necessary to lift assisting with flat hands placed only on
the hood up slightly). edges of hood (3).

Caution! Caution!

To avoid damage to the windshield If hood is not fully closed, repeat

wipers or hood, open the hood only closing procedure.
with wipers in the parked position.

88
 Warning! Adding Coolant

• Use extreme caution when opening If coolant has to be added, a 50/50

the hood if there are any signs of mixture of water and MB anticorrosion/
steam or coolant leaking from the antifreeze should be added.
cooling system.
The drain plugs for the cooling system
• Do not remove pressure cap on are located on the right side of the
coolant reservoir if engine engine block and at the bottom of the
temperature is above 194°F radiator.
(90°C). Allow engine to cool-down
before removing cap. The coolant Anticorrosion/antifreeze, see
reservoir contains hot fluid and is Coolants in Index.
under pressure.
• Using a rag, turn cap to first
Checking Coolant Level notch to relieve excess pressure. If
opened immediately, scalding hot
To check the coolant level, the vehicle fluid and steam will be blown out
must be parked on level ground and the under pressure, possibly causing
engine stopped. personal injury.
Check coolant level only when coolant • Do not spill antifreeze on hot
is cold. engine parts. Antifreeze contains
ethylene glycol which may burn if
The coolant should reach the marking it comes into contact with hot
inside the filler neck engine parts. You can be seriously
burned

89
 The best time to check the engine oil Add oil, if needed, only
level is when the oil is warm, such as to the upper mark
during a fuel stop. (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 For viscosity and capacity, see
checking. 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
 When noticing fluid loss or gear shifting The fluid level in the transmission is
malfunctions, we recommend to have dependent upon its temperature. The
your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer maximum and minimum fluid level
check the transmission fluid level. marks on the dipstick are applicable
The transmission fluid level should only references only if the transmission fluid
be checked with the engine idling, level has reached its normal operating
parking brake engaged and selector lever temperature of 176° F (80°C).
in position "P". The vehicle must be
parked on level ground. Important!

Prior to the check, allow engine to idle If the transmission fluid cools down to
for approx. 1 to 2 minutes. 68 - 86° F (20 - 30°C), which is the
normal shop temperature range, then
Measure fluid level with the dipstick the maximum fluid level will be
completely inserted and the locking lever approximately 0.4 in (10 mm) below
released (1). the minimum mark on the dipstick. We
Checking Automatic Transmission stress this point because a fluid change
Fluid Level Extreme cleanliness must be observed! is normally performed when the
To wipe the dipstick, use a clean, lint- transmission fluid has cooled down to
Dipstick locking lever free cloth. shop temperature.
1 Release To fill the transmission with fluid, pour it The fluid level must not exceed the
2 Engage through a fine-mesh filter into the dipstick maximum mark with the fluid
dipstick opening. Even the slightest at operating temperature. Drain or
impurity may cause operational troubles. siphon off excess fluid, if required.
Then push dipstick all the way in and
swing locking lever
downwards (2).

91
Trunk Lamp Spare Wheel, Lug Wrench First Aid Kit

1 Switching off 1 Trunk floor 1 Opening lid

2 Strap
Switch off (1) trunk lamp with car key 3 Luggage bowl The first aid kit is stored in the shelf
(at the same time the trunk lid handle 4 Lug wrench below the rear window.
will retract). This prevents the vehicle
battery from being discharged if the Roll back the floor mat. Lift the trunk
trunk is to remain open for along period floor (1) and engage strap (2) in the
of time. eyelet on the edge of the trunk lid.

To close the trunk lid by its handle, To remove the spare tire, turn luggage
first switch trunk lamp on. 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
 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

Vehicle Jack while the vehicle is raised. Be certain
that the jack is always vertical when Vehicle Tools, Storage Compartment
See illustration for proper storage of in use, especially on hills. Always try below Tool Box
jack. to use the jack on level surface. Be
sure that the jack arm is fully 1 Closing
Before storing the jack on the felt in the inserted in the jack tube. Lower the 2 Opening (to remove tool box,
spare wheel well, the jack arm (1) must vehicle onto sufficient capacity jack to access storage compartment)
be lowered almost to the base (2) of the stands before working under the 3 Opening (to open tool box)
jack. vehicle.
To insert the tool box:

Position rear end of tool box, press

down its front end and slide handle to
position (1).

93
Wheels We recommend that you break in new Rotating Wheels
tires for approx. 60 miles (100 km) at
Replace rims or tires with the same moderate speed. It is imperative that the The wheels can be rotated according to
designation, manufacturer and type as wheel mounting bolts be retightened the degree of tire wear while retaining
shown on the original part. See your after approx. 60-300 miles (100-500 the same direction of travel.
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for km).
further information. Rotating, however, should be carried
On new vehicles retightening is carried out at a mileage of 3000 -6000 miles
Warning! out during the 1st inspection. (5000 - 10 000 km), before the
Retightening is also necessary characteristic tire wear pattern
Do not mix different tire construction whenever wheels are fitted, e.g. when (shoulder wear on front wheels and
types (i.e. radial, bias, and bias-belted) the spare wheel is used for the first tread center wear on rear wheels)
on your car because handling may be time or when a set of wheels with M + becomes visible, as otherwise the
adversely affected and may result in S tires is installed. driving properties deteriorate.
loss of control.
Tightening torque: 110 ft.lb. (150 Nm). Note:
See your authorized Mercedes-Benz For rim and tire specifications, refer to
dealer for information on tested and "Technical Data". Thoroughly clean the inner side of
recommended rims and tires for the wheels any time you rotate the
summer and winter operation. They Warning! wheels or wash the vehicle underside.
can also offer advice concerning tire The use of retread tires is not
service and purchase. Worn, old tires can cause accidents. recommended. Retread tires may
If the tire tread is badly worn, or if adversely affect the handling
Tire Replacement the tires have sustained damage, characteristics and safety of the
replace them. vehicle.
Front tires should be replaced in sets.
Furthermore - in the event of tire When replacing rims, use only Dented or bent rims can cause tire
replacement - the spare wheel, if genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts pressure loss and damage to the tire
possible, should be used on the rear (identified by Mercedes star) beads. For this reason, check rims for
axle. Rims and tires must be of the specified for the particular rim type. damage at regular intervals.
same size and type. For dimensions, Failure to do so can result in the bolts
see "Technical Data". loosening and possibly an accident.

94
The rim flanges must be checked for Changing Wheels
wear before a tire is mounted. Remove
burrs, if any. 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 hazard warning flasher.
jacking up the vehicle at the jack
tubes built into either side of the 2. Move selector lever to position "P"
vehicle. Use the jack only to lift the and turn off engine.
vehicle during a wheel change. Never
get beneath the vehicle while it is 3. Prevent vehicle from rolling away
supported by the jack. Keep hands by blocking wheels with - wheel
and feet away from the area under chocks (not supplied with vehicle)
the lifted vehicle. Always firmly set or sizable wood block or stone.
parking brake and block wheels When changing a wheel on a hill, 4 Unfold wrench, loosen but do not
before raising vehicle with jack. place chocks on the downhill side yet remove the wheel bolts.
blocking both wheels of the other
Do not disengage parking brake while axle. On a level road, place one
the vehicle is raised. Be certain that chock in front of and one behind
the jack is always vertical when in use, the wheel that is diagonally
especially on hills. Always try to use opposite to the wheel being
the jack on level surface. Be sure that changed.
the jack arm is fully inserted in the
jack tube. Lower the vehicle onto
sufficient capacity jack stands before
working under the vehicle.

95
5 Remove the protective cover from 6. Insert jack arm fully into the 8 Unscrew wheel bolts completely.
the jack support tube opening by tube hole up to the stop. Place Keep bolt threads protected from
inserting a screwdriver in the jack on firm ground. Position dirt and sand. While removing the
opening and prying it out. The tube the jack so that it is always last bolt, hold wheel against hub
openings are located directly vertical (plumb-line) as seen to avoid paint damage on rim,
behind the front wheel housings from the side (see arrow), even
and in front of the rear wheel if the vehicle is parked on an 9 Remove wheel.
housings. incline.
10 Screw the alignment bolt (1)
7. Jack up the vehicle until the supplied in the tool kit into the
wheel is clear of the ground. upper-most threaded hole
Never start engine while vehicle
is raised.

96
11 Install spare wheel on wheel hub. 13 Unfold wrench and tighten the five Before storing the jack, the jack arm
Insert wheel bolts and tighten them bolts evenly, following the sequence must be lowered almost to the base of
slightly. illustrated above, until all bolts are the jack.
tight. Observe a tightening torque of
To avoid paint damage, place wheel 110 ft. lb. (150 Nm). Warning!
flat against hub and hold it there
while installing first wheel bolt. 14 Correct tire pressure. Incorrect mounting bolts or
improperly tightened mounting bolts
Unscrew the alignment bolt to install Important! can cause the wheel to come off. This
the last wheel bolt. could cause an accident. Be sure to
When installing new wheels the use the correct mounting bolts.
12 Lower car. Remove jack and mounting bolts must be retightened
insert jack tube cover. after approx. 60 - 300 miles (100 to 500
km).

97
Tire Inflation Pressure Increased inflation pressures for heavy Warning!
loads produce favorable handling
A table (see fuel filler flap) lists the tire characteristics with lighter loads and Do not over inflate tires. Over
inflation pressures specified for are perfectly permissible. The ride of inflating tires can result in sudden
summer and winter tires as well as for the vehicle, however, will become deflation (blowout) because they are
the varying operating conditions. somewhat harder. more likely to become punctured or
damaged by road debris, potholes
Important! Tire temperature and pressure increase etc.. Follow recommended inflation
with the vehicle speed. Tire pressure pressures.
Tire pressure changes by approx. 1.5 should therefore only be corrected on
psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air cold tires. Correct tire pressure in warm Do not overload the tires by
temperature change. Keep this in mind tires only if pressure has dropped be- exceeding the specified vehicle
when checking tire pressure inside a low the pressure listed in the table and capacity weight (as indicated by the
garage - especially in the winter. the respective operating conditions are label on the driver's door latch post).
taken into consideration. Overloading the tires can overheat
Example: them, possibly causing a blowout.
An under inflated tire due to a slow
If garage temperature = approx. + 68°F leak (e.g. due to a nail in the tire) may
(+ 20°C) and ambient temperature = cause damage such as tread separation,
approx. +32°F (0°C) then the adjusted bulging etc. Regular tire pressure
air pressure = specified air pressure + 3 checks (including the spare tire) at
psi (+ 0.2 bar). intervals of no more than 14 days are
therefore essential.
Tire pressures listed for light loads are
minimum values offering high driving If a tire constantly loses air, it should
comfort. be inspected for damage.

98
Battery While the engine is running the battery Warning!
terminal clamps must not be loosened or
The maintenance-free battery is located detached, otherwise the alternator and Never lean over batteries while
in the trunk under the right-hand wheel other electronic components would be connecting, you might get injured.
well cover panel. damaged.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid.
The service life of the battery is Battery Recycling Do not allow this fluid to come in
dependent on its condition of charge. contact with eyes, skin or clothing.
The battery should always be Batteries contain materials that can In case it does, immediately flush
sufficiently charged to last an optimum harm the environment with improper affected area with water and seek
length of time. disposal. medical help.

Therefore, we recommend that you Large 12 Volt storage batteries contain A battery will also produce hydrogen
have the battery charge checked lead, and smaller watch-type batteries gas, which is flammable and
frequently if you use the vehicle mostly (such as in the Infrared Remote Control explosive. Keep flames or sparks
for short distance trips, or if it is not Unit) may contain mercury. away from battery, avoid improper
used for long periods of time. connection of jumper cables,
Recycling of batteries is the preferred smoking etc..
Only charge a battery with a battery method of disposal.
charger after the battery has been
disconnected from the vehicle electrical Many states require sellers of batteries
circuit. 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
Exterior Lamps Headlamp Assembly 6 Bulb socket for turn signal,
parking, side marker and standing
When replacing bulbs, install only 12 1 Headlamp horizontal adjustment lamp bulb
volt bulbs with the specified watt screw
rating. 7 Electrical connector for high and
2 Headlamp vertical adjustment screw low beam headlamp bulb
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
When replacing halogen bulbs do not Reinstall cover and fasten with Turn Signal, Parking, Side
touch glass portion of bulb with bare retaining clamps (4). Marker and Standing Lamp
hands. Use plain paper or a clean cloth.
Adjusting headlamp: (1157 [215 W/32/3cp] bulb)
Warning!
Correct headlamp adjustment is Replacing bulb:
Halogen lamps contain pressurized extremely important. To check and
gas. A bulb can explode if you: readjust a headlamp do the following: Squeeze latch (5) together and lift
complete lamp assembly out to front of
• touch or move it when hot, 1. Park unloaded vehicle on level vehicle. Twist bulb socket (6)
surface. Check with carpenter's counterclockwise and pull out. Push
• drop the bulb, level. bulb into socket, turn counterclockwise
and remove.
• scratch the bulb. 2. Open cover above headlamp.
Move retaining clamps (4) Insert new bulb in socket and twist
Replacing bulb: aside and remove cover. clockwise. Reinstall bulb socket.
Reinstall lamp assembly until properly
Bulb for high and low beam HB2 3. Adjust vertical headlamp aim seated and fasten latch (5).
(60/55 W) Bulb for fog lamp with adjusting screw (2) until
YC(H3) (55 W) the bubble in level (9) is in center
of the marking (bold line).
Open cover above headlamp. Move
retaining clamps (4) aside and remove 4. Reinstall cover and fasten with
cover. Pull off electrical connector (7) retaining clamps (4).
respectively (8). Unhook clamping ring
and pull out bulb together with Note:
clamping ring. Remove bulb.
Horizontal headlamp aim normally
Insert new bulb (seating properly in needs readjustment only after repair to
cutouts of bulb socket), mount the body or a headlamp unit.
clamping ring. Reinstall and push Therefore, do not turn the horizontal
electrical connector on securely. adjustment screw (1).

101
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
3 Tail, parking lamp (5 W bulb) vertical position and swing open lamp
support. Push down on bulb to be
4 Tail, parking and standing lamp changed, twist counterclockwise and
(21/4 W/35/1.2cp bulb) remove.
Driver's side: Tail, parking,
standing and rear fog lamp
(21/4 W/35/1.2 cp bulb)

102
High Mounted Stop Lamp Main fuse box in engine compartment Auxiliary fuse box in trunk behind
(H2 [20W] bulb) right side cover
Fuses
To replace the bulb, press tabs on both Always use a new fuse for replacement.
sides (arrows) to release cover. Before replacing a blown fuse, Never attempt to repair or bridge a
determine the cause of the short circuit. blown fuse.
Turn bulb socket with bulb counter- Spare fuses are supplied inside the
clockwise and pull out. main fuse box. Observe amperage and After replacing a blown fuse, close
color of fuse. fuse box cover.
Press bulb down, turn counterclockwise
and remove.

103
Jump Starting Proceed as follows: Important!

If the battery is discharged, the engine 1 Position the vehicle with the charged 3. Clamp one end of the first jumper
should be started with jumper cables battery so that the jumper cables will cable to the positive (+) terminal of
and the (12 V) battery of another reach, but never let the vehicles the discharged battery and the other
vehicle. touch. Make sure the jumper cables end to the positive (+) terminal of
do not have loose or missing the charged battery. Make sure the
The battery is located in the trunk insulation. cable clamps do not touch any other
behind the right-hand cover panel. metal parts.
2 On both vehicles:
Warning! 4. Clamp one end of the second jumper
• Turn off engine and all lights cable to the grounded negative (-)
Failure to follow these directions and accessories, except hazard terminal of the charged battery and
will cause damage to the electronic flashers or work lights. the final connection to the negative
components, and can lead to a (-) terminal of the discharged
battery explosion and personal • Apply parking brake and shift battery. Make sure the cables are not
injury. selector lever to position "P". on or near pulleys, fans, or other
parts that will move when the engine
Read all instructions before is started
proceeding.

104
Important! Warning! Important!

5. Start engine of the vehicle with Never lean over batteries while A discharged battery can freeze at
the charged battery and run at connecting or jump starting, you approx. + 14°F (-10°C). In that case, it
high idle. Then start engine of might get injured. must be thawed out before jumper
the disabled vehicle in the cables are used.
usual manner. Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid.
Do not allow this fluid to come in Jumper cable specifications:
6. After the engine has started, contact with eyes, skin or clothing. In
remove jumper cables by case it does, immediately flush • Minimum cable cross-section of
exactly reversing the above affected area with water, and seek 25 mm2 or approx. 2 AWG
installation sequence, starting medical help.
with the last connection made • Maximum length of 11.5 ft
first. When removing each A battery will also produce hydrogen (3.5 m).
clamp, make sure that it does gas, which is flammable and very
not touch any other metal while explosive. Keep flames or sparks
the other end is still attached. away from battery, avoid improper
connection of jumper cables,
smoking etc..

105
 The vehicle may be towed with all To signal turns while being towed with
wheels on the ground and the selector hazard flasher in use, turn key in
lever in position "N" for distances up to steering lock to position 2 and activate
30 miles (50 km) and at a speed not to combination switch for left or right
exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). turn signal in usual manner - only the
selected turn signal will operate.
To positively avoid a possibility of
damage to the transmission, however, Upon canceling the turn signal, the
we recommend to disconnect the drive hazard flasher will operate again.
shaft at the rear axle drive flange on
any towing beyond a short tow to a Caution!
nearby garage.
If the vehicle is towed with the front
Do not tow with sling-type equipment. axle raised, the key must not be in
Towing with sling-type equipment over steering lock position 2. Otherwise, the
Towing the Vehicle bumpy roads will damage radiator and acceleration slip control will
supports. immediately be engaged and will apply
The rear towing eye is located at the the rear wheel brakes.
right, below the bumper. The front Use wheel lift or flat bed equipment.
towing eye is located on the passenger
side behind a flap in the bumper panel. Note:

Flap removal: Insert finger in recess of With the engine not running, there is
flap and pull flap out. no power assistance for the braking and
steering systems. In this case, it is
Flap installation: Engage flap at bottom important to keep in mind that a
and press in top securely considerably higher degree of effort is
necessary to brake and steer the
We recommend that the vehicle be vehicle.
transported using flat bed equipment.
This method is preferable to other types
of towing.
106
Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle paint damage. Frequent washing, recommended by Mercedes-Benz
however, reduces and/or eliminates the because of the possibility of
Warning! aggressiveness and potency of the above incompatibility between materials used
adverse influences. in the production process and others
Many cleaning products can be applied later.
hazardous. Some are poisonous, More frequent washings are necessary
others are flammable. Always follow to deal with unfavorable conditions; for We have selected car-care products and
the instructions on the particular example, near the ocean, in industrial compiled recommendations which are
container. Always open your car's areas (smoke, exhaust emissions), or specially matched to our vehicles and
doors or windows when cleaning the during winter operation. which always reflect the latest techno-
inside. logy. You can obtain MB car-care
You should check your vehicle from products at your authorized Mercedes-
Never use fluids or solvents that are time to time for stone chipping or other Benz dealer.
not designed for cleaning your car. damage. Any damage should be
repaired as soon as possible to prevent Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosion
In operation, your vehicle is subjected the start of corrosion. or damage due to negligent or incorrect
to varying external influences which, if care cannot always be removed or
gone unchecked, can attack the paint- In doing so, do not neglect the repaired with the car-care products re-
work as well as the underbody and underside of the car. A prerequisite for a commended here. In such cases it is
cause lasting damage. thorough check is a washing of the best to seek aid at your authorized
underbody followed by a thorough Mercedes-Benz dealer.
Such damage is caused not only by inspection. Damaged areas need to be
extreme and varying climatic conditions, reundercoated. The following topics deal with the
but also by air pollution, road salt, tar, cleaning and care of your vehicle and
gravel and stone chipping. Grease and Your vehicle has been treated at the give important "how-to" information as
oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluid, bird factory with a wax-base rust proofing in well as references to recommended
droppings, tree resins etc. should be the body cavities which will last for the MB car-care products.
removed immediately to avoid lifetime of the vehicle. Post-production
treatment is neither necessary nor Additional information can be found in
the booklet titled "Car Care".

107
Engine Cleaning the outside mirrors to prevent them from year; once before and once after
getting damaged. If the vehicle has been winter.
Corrosion protection, such as MB run through an automatic car wash -in
Anticorrosion Wax should be applied particular one of the older installations - Headlamp Cleaning System
to the engine compartment after every rewipe the recessed sections in the tail
engine cleaning. Before applying, all lamps (designed to prevent soiling) if The condition of the wiper blades is
control linkage bushings and joints necessary. No solvents (fuels, thinners important for satisfactory cleaning of
should be lubricated. The poly-V-belt etc.) must be used. the headlamp lenses. We therefore
and all pulleys should be protected recommend that the blades be
from any wax. In the winter, thoroughly remove all inspected regularly.
traces of road salt as soon as possible.
Car Washing Replace damaged wiper blades.
When washing the underbody, do not
Before washing your vehicle, remove forget to clean the inner sides of the Plastic Parts, Headliner and
insect residues. MB Insect Remover is wheels. Rubber Parts
recommended. Do not use hot water or
wash your car in direct sunlight. Use Tar Stains Do not use oil or wax on these parts.
only a mild car wash detergent, such as
MB Autoshampoo. Quickly remove tar stains before they Seat Belts
dry and become more difficult to
Thoroughly spray the car with a remove. MB Tar Remover is The webbing must not be treated with
diffused jet of water. Direct only a very recommended. chemical cleaning agents. Use only
weak spray towards the ventilation clear, lukewarm water and soap. Do
intake. Use plenty of water and rinse Window Cleaning not dry the webbing at temperatures
the sponge and chamois frequently. above 176°F (80°C) or in direct
Use a window cleaning solution on very sunlight.
Rinse with clear water and thoroughly dirty or oil-stained windows.
wipe dry with a chamois. Do not allow Warning!
cleaning agents to dry on the finish. Wiper Blades
Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this
Before running the vehicle through an Clean the wiper blade rubber with a may severely weaken them. In a crash
automatic car wash, fold back clean cloth and detergent solution. they may not be able to provide
Replace blades twice a adequate protection.
108
Instrument Cluster Paintwork, Painted Body Light Alloy Wheels
Components
Use a gentle dish-washing detergent or MB-Autoshampoo should be used for
mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a MB-Gloss Preserver should be applied regular cleaning of the light alloy
washing solution. Wipe with a cloth when water drops on the paint surface wheels.
moistened in lukewarm solution. Do not do not "bead up"; normally in 3 to 5
use scouring agents. months, depending on climate and If possible, clean wheels once a week
washing detergent used. with MB-Autoshampoo, using a soft
Steering Wheel and Gear Selector sponge and an ample supply of
Lever MB-Paint-Polish should be applied if lukewarm water.
paint surface shows signs of dirt
Wipe with a damp cloth and dry embedding (i.e. loss of gloss). If the MB-Autoshampoo does not
thoroughly or clean with MB Leather satisfactorily clean the wheels, use MB-
Cleaner. MB-Fine Polishing Paste must be used Protective Agent for Light Alloy
when the paint surface shows signs of Wheels for normal cleaning and MB-
Leather Upholstery excessive fading/ chalking due to lack Cleaner for Light Alloy Wheels for
of care etc.. heavier dirt accumulation.
Using aftermarket seat covers or wearing Follow instructions on container.
clothing that have the tendency to give Do not apply any of these products or
off coloring (e.g. when wet etc.) may wax if your car is parked in the sun or if Ornamental Moldings
cause the upholstery to become the hood is still hot.
permanently discolored. By lining the For regular cleaning and care of very
seats with a proper intermediate cover, Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up dirty chrome-plated parts, use a chrome
contact-discoloration will be prevented. Stick for quick and provisional repairs cleaner.
of minor paint damage (i.e. chips from
Wipe leather upholstery with a damp stones, car doors etc.). Automatic Antenna and Rear Fender
cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Indicators
MB Leather Cleaner. Exercise particular
care when cleaning perforated leather as For trouble-free operation of the
its underside should not become wet. automatic antenna and rear fender
indicators, we recommend to clean
them periodically.

109
Testing Infrared Remote Control When inserting new batteries, make Synchronizing System:
Checking Batteries: sure they are correctly installed.
Slide battery cover onto housing until The system may have to be re-
If the transmit button (1) is pressed locked in place. synchronized, if the transmitter is
longer than 1 second, the battery without voltage for several minutes.
indicator lamp in the transmitter eye (2) Important!
briefly illuminates -indicating that the To synchronize system, aim transmitter
batteries are in order. Batteries contain materials that can (2) at a receiver (5) and briefly press
Change batteries if the indicator lamp harm the environment if disposed of transmit button (1). Within approx. 30
does not come on. improperly. Recycling of batteries is seconds, lock or unlock the car at a
the preferred method of disposal. door or the trunk using the master key.
Changing Batteries: For disposal, please follow manu-
facturer's recommendation on battery The infrared remote control should
Slide release (3) laterally and pull off package. once again be operational.
battery cover (4). Change batteries.

110
 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
Front Head Restraints Depress release button (2) beneath the seat head restraints. Head restraints
seatback covering material and pull are intended to help reduce injuries
Removal: head restraint up sharply, holding it by during an accident.
the left head restraint post (viewed in
Push button (1) up to bring the head driving direction). For positioning of head restraints refer
restraint to its highest position. to sections Power Seats, Front, and
Pull out head restraint completely with Head Restraints, Rear in Index.
both hands.

111
Rear Seat Cushion Manual Closing of Trunk Lid Manual Retraction of Trunk Lid
Handle
Removal: Push in locking tabs (1) (on The trunk lid can be closed manually
left and right side of seat) and pull up should a malfunction occur on the The trunk lid handle can be retracted
seat at the front. power closing system. manually should a malfunction occur
with the automatic system.
Installation: Slide rear edge of cushion With the trunk lid open:
under the backrest so that both wire Push sliding switch down (1) and to the
loops under the backrest engage at the push sliding switch to position (1), right (2).
seat cushion. Push front of cushion
down until it locks in place press eye of latch in (2),

push sliding switch to position (3).

Close trunk lid.

112
Replacing Wiper Blades Fold wiper arm forward. Press safety Note:
tab down (1), push wiper blade
For safety reasons, remove key from downward (2) and remove. Do not open engine hood with wiper
steering lock before replacing a wiper arms folded forward.
blade, otherwise the motor can suddenly Installation - driver's side:
turn on and cause injury. Headlamp Wiper Blades
Press safety tab of new wiper blade
Windshield Wiper Blades down. Insert wiper blade between the Removal:
tabs (3) on the wiper arm and slide into
Removal: end of wiper arm. Then press safety tab Fold wiper arm forward. Push pin (1)
upward until it locks in place. 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
Replace wiper blades one at a time to blade into end of wiper arm until safety Place wiper blade on wiper arm and
prevent the wiper arms from sliding back tab locks in place. press in pin (1).
to the rest position.
113
 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 The sliding roof can be opened or
felt pad. 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
Spark Plugs Layout of Poly-V-belt Drive

Remove and install spark plugs only 1 Automatic belt tensioner

with socket wrench from the vehicle 2 Crankshaft
tool kit or a recommended spark plug 3 Air conditioning compressor
wrench. 4 Fan
5 Air pump
Tightening torque: 15-22 ft.lb. 6 Alternator
(20 - 30 Nm). 7 Idler pulley
8 Power steering pump
For approved spark plugs see 9 Coolant pump
"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
Roof Rack Spare Parts Service

Use only those roof racks approved by All authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers
Mercedes-Benz to avoid damage to the maintain a stock of original spare parts
vehicle. Follow manufacturer's required for maintenance and repair
installation instructions. work. In addition, strategically located
parts distribution centers provide quick
Mount supports only between markings and reliable parts service.
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
Technical Data

117
 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
 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 Should you lose your Owner's Service
Service and Warranty Policy Booklet and Warranty Policy Booklet, have
and your authorized Mercedes-Benz your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer
dealer will exchange or repair any arrange for a replacement. It will be
defective parts in accordance with the mailed to you.
terms of the following warranties:

1. New vehicle limited warranty

2. Emission systems warranty
3. Emission performance warranty
Vehicle Data Card 4. California emission control
systems warranty (State of
The vehicle data card contains all California only, unless purchased
important data pertaining to the optionally for diesel models).
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
Technical Data
Model 600 SEL (140 057)1 Rims Tires
Rims
Engine 120 (light alloy rims) 7 ½ J x 16H2
Mode of operation 4-stroke engine Summer tires:
gasoline injection Radial-ply tires 235/60 ZR 16
No. of cylinders 12 Winter tires:
Bore 3.50 in ( 89.00 mm ) Radial-ply tires 235/60 R 16 100 H M+S
Stroke 3.16 in ( 80.20 mm)
Total piston displacement 365.4 cu.in (3449 cm³)
Compression ratio 10:1
Output acc.to SAE J 1349 402 hp/5200rpm Electrical System
(300 kW/5200 rpm) Alternator 14 V/120 A
Maximum torque acc. To SAE J 1349 428 ft-lb/3800 rpm Starter motor 12 V/1.8 kW
(580 Nm/3800 rpm ) Battery 12 V/100Ah
Maximum engine speed 6000 rpm
Firing order 1-12-5-8-3-10-6-7-2-11- Spark plugs Bosch F9 DCO
4-9 Beru 14 F-9 DUO
Champion S12 YCC
Poly – V belts length 2585mm Electrode gap 0.032 in (0.8mm)
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
Technical Data
Weights See certification tag Main Dimensions
Roof load max. 220 lb (100kg) Overall vehicle length 205.2 in (5213 mm)
Trunk load max. 220 lb (100kg) Overall vehicle width 74.3 in (1886)
Overall height 58.6 in (1490)
Wheel base 123.6 in (3140 mm)
Track, front 63.1 in (1603 mm)
Track, rear 62.0 in (1576 mm)

121
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 Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

Recommended engine oils

Engine with oil filter 10 US qt (10.0 l)

Automatic transmission Initial fill: 9.1 US qt (8.6 l) Automatic transmission fluid

Fluid change: 8.1 US qt (7.7 l)

122
 Capacity Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.
Rear axle 1.5US qt (1.4l) Hypoid gear oil SAE 90,85 W 90

Hydraulic system for adaptive damping system

(ADS) approx.2.1 US qt (2.0 l) MB Hydraulic fluid

Power steering approx. 1.4 US qt (1.3 l) MB Power steering fluid

Accelerator control linkage Hydraulic fluid

Brake system approx. 0.5 US qt (0.5 l) MB Brake fluid (DOT 4)

Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning MB Windshield washer

system approx. 5.3 US qt (5.0 l) Concentrate “S”1

Cooling system approx.21.1US qt (20.0 l) MB Anticorrosion/antifreeze

Fuel tank including a reserve of approx.26.4US gal (100 l) Premium unleaded gasoline: Posted
approx. 3.3US gal (12.5 l) 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
Engine Oils Brake Fluid Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Caution!
Engine oils are specifically tested for During vehicle operation, the boiling
their suitability in our engines. point of the brake fluid is continuously To maintain the engine's durability and
Therefore, use only engine oils reduced through the absorption of performance, premium unleaded
recommended by Mercedes-Benz. moisture from the atmosphere. Under gasoline must be used. If premium
Information on recommended brands is extremely hard operating conditions, unleaded is not available and low
available at your authorized Mercedes- this moisture content can lead to the octane fuel is used, follow these
Benz dealer. formation of bubbles in the system thus precautions:
reducing the system's efficiency.
Air Conditioner Refrigerant • have the fuel tank filled only
The brake fluid must therefore be partially with unleaded regular and
Ozone-friendly HFC-134a refrigerant replaced every two years, preferably fill up with premium unleaded as
and special lubricating oil is used in the in the spring. soon as possible,
air conditioner system.
It is recommended to use only brake • avoid full throttle driving and
Never use R-12 (CFC) or damage to the fluid approved by Mercedes-Benz. abrupt acceleration,
system will occur. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer
will provide you with additional • do not exceed an engine speed of
information. 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
Fuel Requirements The ratio of Methanol to gasoline must Gasoline Additives
not exceed 3% plus additional
Use only Premium unleaded meeting cosolvents. A major concern among engine
ASTM standard D 439: manufacturers is carbon build up caused
Using mixtures of Ethanol and by gasoline. Mercedes-Benz
The octane number (posted at the pump) Methanol is not allowed, Gasohol, recommends to use only quality
must be 91 min. It is an average of both which contains 10% Ethanol and 90% gasoline containing additives that
the Research (R) octane number and the unleaded gasoline, can be used. prevent the build up of carbon deposits.
Motor (M) octane number: [(R + M)/2]. After an extended period of using fuels
This is also known as ANTI-KNOCK These blends must also meet all other without such additives, carbon deposits
INDEX.. fuel requirements such as resistance to can build up especially on the intake
spark knock, boiling range, vapor valves and in the combustion area,
Unleaded gasoline containing pressure etc.. leading to engine performance problems
oxygenates such as Ethanol, IPA, IBA such as:
and TBA can be used provided the ratio
of any one of these oxygenates to • warm-up hesitation,
gasoline does not exceed 10%, MTBE • unstable idle,
not to exceed 15%. • knocking/pinging,
• misfire,
• power loss.

Damage or malfunctions resulting from

poor fuel quality are not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

125
Coolants heat transfer capability of the solution. Therefore the following product is
Therefore, do not use more than this strongly recommended for use in your
The engine coolant is a mixture of water amount of anti-corrosion/antifreeze. car: Mercedes-Benz Anticorrosion/
and anticorrosion/anti-freeze, which If the coolant level is low, water and Antifreeze Agent.
provides: MB anticorrosion/antifreeze should be
used to bring it up to the proper level Before the start of the winter season (or
• corrosion protection (have cooling system checked for signs once a year in the hot southern regions),
• freeze protection of leakage). you should have the anticorrosion/
• boiling protection (by increasing antifreeze concentration checked. The
the boiling point). The water in the cooling system must coolant is also regularly checked each
meet minimum requirements, which are time you bring your vehicle to your
The cooling system was filled at the usually satisfied by normal drinking authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for
factory with a coolant providing freeze water. If you are not sure about the maintenance service
protection to approx. -22 °F (-30 °C) and water quality, consult your authorized
corrosion protection. Mercedes-Benz dealer.

The coolant solution must be used year Anticorrosion/antifreeze

round to provide the necessary corrosion
protection and increase in the boil-over Your vehicle contains a number of
protection. You should have it replaced aluminum parts. The use of aluminum
every 3 years. components in motor vehicle engines Approx. freeze Anticorrosion/
necessitates that anticorrosion/ antifreeze
To provide the important corrosion antifreeze coolant used in such engines -35 ° F
protection, the solution must be at least be specifically formulated to protect the (-37 °C) 5.3 US qt (5.0 l)
40% anticorrosion/antifreeze (equals a aluminum parts. (Failure to use such -49 °F
freeze protection to approx. -13°F anticorrosion/antifreeze coolant will
[-25°C]). If you use a solution that is result in a significantly shortened (-45°C) 6.3 US qt (6.0 l)
more than 55% anticorrosion/antifreeze service life.)
(freeze protection to approx. -49 °F
[-45°C]), the engine temperature will
increase due to the lower

126
Consumer Information depart significantly from the norm due to tested under controlled conditions on a
variations in driving habits, service specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
This has been prepared as required of all practices and differences in road Sustained high temperature can cause
manufacturers of passenger cars under characteristics and climate. the material of the tire to degenerate and
Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal reduce tire life, and excessive tempera-
Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the Traction "A", "B", "C" ture can lead to sudden tire failure. The
"National Traffic and Motor Vehicle grade "C" corresponds to a level of
Safety Act of 1966". The traction grades, from highest to performance which all passenger car
lowest, are "A", "B", and "C", and tires must meet under the Federal Motor
Uniform Tire Quality Grading they represent the tire's ability to stop Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades
on wet pavement as measured under "B" and "A" represent higher levels of
Refer to the tire sidewall for the specific controlled conditions on specified performance on the laboratory test
tire grades for the tires with which this government test surfaces of asphalt and wheel than the minimum required by
vehicle is equipped. concrete. A tire marked "C" may have law.
poor traction performance.
All passenger car tires must conform to Warning!
federal safety requirements in addition to Warning!
these grades. The temperature grade for this tire is
The traction grade assigned to this tire established for a tire that is properly
Treadwear is based on braking (straight ahead) inflated and not overloaded. Excessive
traction tests and does not include speed, underinflation, or excessive
The treadwear grade is a comparative cornering (turning) traction. loading, either separately or in
rating based on the wear rate of the tire combination, can cause excessive heat
when tested under controlled conditions Temperature "A", "B", "C" build up and possible tire failure.
on a specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would The temperature grades are "A" (the
wear one and one-half (11/2) times as highest), "B", and "C", representing the
well on the government course as a tire tire's resistance to the generation of heat
graded 100. The relative performance of and its ability to dissipate heat when
tires depends upon the actual conditions
of their use, however, and may

127
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
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
130
Index

131
ABS 73, 82 Battery 99 Coolant level, checking 89
Acceleration slip control (ASR) 83 Battery not being charged Coolant temperature gauge 78 -
Active charcoal filter 27 Charge indicator lamp 15, 76 79
Adaptive damping system (ADS)84 Brake fluid 17,81, 107, 124 Coolants 126
ADS 84, 123 Brake pads worn Cruise control 74
Air conditioner refrigerant 124 Brake pad wear indicator lamp
Air outlets 22 80 Drinking and driving 70
Airbag 50 Brake warning lamp Driving instructions 16
Alarm system 35 Brake fluid low 81 Driving off 70
Antenna 68, 109 Brake warning lamp test 81
Anti-theft alarm system 35 Brakes 16, 18, 70, 72-73, 75, 84, Emergency tensioning retractor
Anticorrosion/antifreeze 86, 89, 123, 126 106 (ETR) 49
Antilock brake system (ABS) 82 Capacities: Fuels, coolants, Emission control 85
Armrest, front 41 lubricants etc. 122 Engine malfunction
Armrest, rear 43 Catalytic converter 14 "CHECK ENGINE" lamp 85
Ashtrays 64 Central locking system 31 Engine oil consumption 77
ASR 80, 83-84, 86, 106 Check regularly and before a long Engine oil level low
At the Gas Station 137 trip 136 Low engine oil level warning
Automatic climate control 23 Child restraint 41, 48, 52, 54 lamp 90
Automatic transmission 71 Cleaning and care of the vehicle Engine oil level, checking 90
Automatic transmission fluid level, 107 Engine oils 122, 124
checking 91 Clock, setting 68 Engine overheating 78
Combination switch 56 Engine speed limit Overrevving 73
Consumer information 127 Exterior lamp failure indicator lamp 80
Coolant level low Adding Exterior lamp switch 58
coolant 89
Low engine coolant level
warning lamp 79

132
First aid kit 92 Jump starting 104 Parking brake 15-18, 70-73,
Fuel 81, 91, 93, 95, 104
Fuel requirements 125 Keys, vehicle 28 Power closing assist for doors and
Gasoline additives 125 trunk lid 34
Premium unleaded gasoline 14, 123 124 Lamps, exterior Fog lamps 58 Power seats, front 36
Fuel consumption gauge 77 Head lamps 58, 80, 100 Power seats, rear 42
Fuel filler flap, manual release 114 High mounted stop lamp 103 Power windows 66
Fuel reserve warning lamp 78 License plate lamp 58, 102 Problems with your vehicle 128
Fuses 103 Taillamps 58, 102, 108
Layout of poly-V-belt drive 115 Reading lamps 62
Head restraints, front 36 Lighter 64 Rear fender indicators 74
Head restraints, rear 44 Low engine oil Level warning Rear passenger compartment
Head restraints, removal 111 lamp 77 climate control 27
Headlights 58 Rear seat cushion 112
Heated seats 40 Maintenance 4, 8 Hear view mirrors
Hood 88 Memory 37 Exterior rear view mirrors 59
Inside rear view mirror 37 -38, 45,
Identification plates 118 Oil pressure gauge 15, 76 59 - 60
Indicator lamp symbols 13 Orthopedic seat backrest 39 Rear window defroster 67
Instrument cluster 12 Outside temperature indicator 78 Remote control, infrared 29, 110
Interior lighting 62 Replacing bulbs 101
Roadside assistance 5
Roof rack 116

133
Safety guidelines for the seat belt, Technical data 120 Upholstery 109, 119
emergency tensioning retractor Tire inflation pressure 98
and airbag 53 Tires 17-18, 84, 86, 94, 98, 120, Vanity mirrors 61
Seat belt warning lamp 80 127 Vehicle data card
Seat belts and warning system 46 Towing the vehicle 106 Vehicle jack 93
Service literature 135 Traveling abroad 86 Vehicle tools 93
Sliding roof Trunk lamp 92
Emergency operation 114 Trunk lid Warranty coverage 119
Sliding roof operation 65 Manual closing 112 Washing the car 108
Snow chains 83, 86 Manual retraction of handle Wheels
Spare parts service 116 112 Alloy wheels 109
Spare wheel 92 Trunk, separately locked 32 Rims and tires 94
Spark plugs 115 Turn signals 56 - 57 Wheels, changing 95
SRS malfunction 50 Windshield/headlamp washer system
Starting and turning off the engine 15 Fluid level low 79
Steering lock 55 Washer concentrate 57, 79, 123
Steering wheel, adjustable 45 Washer fluid mixing ratio 57
Storage compartments 63 Winter driving 72, 86
Sun visors 61 Winter driving instructions 19
Supplemental restraint system (SRS) Wiper blades, replacing 113
46,49

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Service Literature Warning!
To help avoid personal injury, be extremely
Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer has trained technicians and careful when performing any maintenance
original Mercedes-Benz parts to service your vehicle properly. For expert work or repairs. Improper or incomplete
advice and quality service, see your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. service may damage the vehicle or its
Customers who are interested in ordering service literature for their equipment, which may in turn result in
vehicles are advised to contact Mercedes-Benz distributors in the U.S. or personal injury.
Canada at the following addresses, respectively
If you have any question about carrying
for U.S.A.: Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc. out some service, turn to the advice of an
One Mercedes Drive P. O. Box 350 authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.
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 M4G 2L5
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
Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip 1 Fuel Supply
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.

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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 – High and low beams: HB2 (60/55 W),
do not overfill. fog lamps: YC (H3) (55 W),
turn signal, standing, side marker and parking
Warning! lamps, front: 1157 (21/5 W/32/3 cp),
tail, parking, standing and driver's side
Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently rear fog lamp: 21/4 W/35/1.2 cp,
and can cause serious injury. Whenever you are turn signal lamps, rear: 21 W/32 cp,
around gasoline, extinquish all smoking materials. tail and parking lamps: 5 W,
Never get sparks, flame or smoking materials near stop lamps: 21 W/32 cp,
gasoline! 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 For tire pressure, refer to tire pressure inside the fuel filler
level: 2.1 US qt (2.0 l). flap.
Recommended engine oils, see Index.
• Air Conditioner:
• Automatic Transmission:
R-134a refrigerant and special lubricant, refer to "Technical
MB Automatic transmission fluid. Data" (also see Index)
For level checks refer to Index.

137