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If not all conditions for automatic engine switch-off (Y page 137) are fulfilled the ¤ symbol is not shown in the multifunction display. If this is the case, the ECO start/stop function is not available.
i If indicator lamp ; is off, the ECO start/
stop function has been deactivated manually or as the result of a malfunction. The engine will then not be switched off automatically when the vehicle stops.
Driving 139
Problems with the engine Problem The engine does not start.
The engine does not start. The starter motor can be heard.
The engine does not start. You cannot hear the starter motor.
Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The HOLD function or DISTRONIC PLUS is activated. X Deactivate the HOLD function (Y page 167) or DISTRONIC
PLUS (Y page 159).
X Try to start the engine again. RThere is a malfunction in the engine electronics. RThere is a malfunction in the fuel supply. X Turn the SmartKey back to position 0 in the ignition lock before
attempting to start the engine again.
X Try to start the engine again (Y page 135). Avoid excessively
long and frequent attempts to start the engine as these will drain the battery.
If the engine does not start after several attempts: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. The on-board voltage is too low because the battery is too weak or discharged. X Jump-start the vehicle (Y page 289). If the engine does not start despite attempts to jump-start it: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
The starter motor was exposed to a thermal load that was too high. X Allow the starter motor to cool down for approximately two
minutes.
X Try to start the engine again. If the engine still does not start: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.
140 Automatic transmission
Problem The engine is not running smoothly and is misfiring.
The coolant temperature display is showing more than 248 ‡ (120 †). The coolant warning lamp may also be lit and a warning tone may sound.
Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions There is a malfunction in the engine electronics or in a mechanical component of the engine management system. X Only depress the accelerator pedal slightly. X Have the cause rectified immediately at a qualified specialist
workshop. Otherwise, non-combusted fuel may get into the catalytic converter and damage it.
The coolant level is too low. The coolant is too hot and the engine is no longer being cooled sufficiently. X Stop as soon as possible and allow the engine and the coolant
to cool down.
X Check the coolant level (Y page 269). Observe the warning
notes as you do so and add coolant if necessary.
Automatic transmission Important safety notes G WARNING If the engine speed is above the idling speed and you engage transmission position D or R, the vehicle could pull away suddenly. There is a risk of an accident. When engaging transmission position D or R, always firmly depress the brake pedal and do not simultaneously accelerate. G WARNING The automatic transmission switches to neutral position N when you switch off the engine. The vehicle may roll away. There is a risk of an accident. After switching off the engine, always switch to parking position P. Prevent the parked vehicle from rolling away by applying the parking brake.
DIRECT SELECT lever Overview of transmission positions The DIRECT SELECT lever is on the right of the steering column.
j Park position with parking lock k Reverse gear i Neutral h Drive i The DIRECT SELECT lever always returns
to its original position. The current transmission position P, R, N or D appears in the transmission position display (Y page 141) in the multifunction display.
Transmission position and drive program display The current transmission position and drive program appear in the multifunction display.
: Transmission position display ; Drive program display i The arrows in the transmission position
display show how and into which transmission positions you can change using the DIRECT SELECT lever.
! If the transmission position display in the
multifunction display is not working, you should pull away carefully to check whether the desired transmission position is engaged. Ideally, you should select transmission position D and drive program E or S.
Engaging park position P X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever in the
direction of arrow P. Transmission position display P is shown in the multifunction display.
i When you engage park position P, make sure that the transmission position display shows P in the multifunction display.
i You can only engage park position P when
the vehicle is stationary.
i The automatic transmission shifts into
park position P automatically: Rif you open the driver's door while the
vehicle is stationary in transmission position D or R
Rif you open the door while traveling at
very low speeds in transmission position D or R
Automatic transmission 141
In addition, a warning tone sounds and a display message is shown.
i Depressing the brake and pushing the
DIRECT SELECT lever up or down disengages the parking lock. The transmission is in N neutral. At transmission fluid temperatures below Ò4 ‡ (Ò20 †), you can only shift out of park position P into another transmission position when the engine is running. In order to shift from park position P directly into R or D: Rdepress the brake pedal and Rpush the DIRECT SELECT lever up or
down past the first point of resistance
! If the engine speed is too high or the
vehicle is moving, do not shift the automatic transmission directly from D to R, from R to D or directly to P. The automatic transmission could otherwise be damaged.
Engaging reverse gear R ! Only shift the automatic transmission to
R when the vehicle is stationary.
i The ECO start/stop function is not
available when reverse gear is engaged. Further information on the ECO start/stop function (Y page 136).
X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the
brake pedal.
X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up past the
first point of resistance.
Shifting to neutral N X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the
brake pedal.
X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up or down
to the first point of resistance.
If the engine has been switched off, the automatic transmission automatically shifts to N.
142 Automatic transmission
Remaining in neutral N If the automatic transmission is to remain in neutral N, e.g. for washing the vehicle in car washes with a towing device, please observe the following instructions: G WARNING If children are left unsupervised in the vehicle, they could: Ropen the doors, thus endangering other
people or road users.
Rget out and disrupt traffic. Roperate the vehicle's equipment. Additionally, children could set the vehicle in motion if, for example, they: Rrelease the parking brake. Rshift the automatic transmission out of
parking position P. Rstarting the engine. There is a risk of an accident and injury. When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Never leave children or animals unattended in the vehicle. Always keep the SmartKey out of reach of children.
RMake sure that the ignition is switched on. RWhen the vehicle is stationary, depress the
brake pedal and keep it depressed.
RShift to neutral N. RRelease the brake pedal. RIf the electric parking brake is engaged,
release it.
RSwitch off the ignition and leave the
SmartKey in the ignition lock.
Engaging drive position D X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the
brake pedal.
X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever down past
the first point of resistance.
Transmission positions B Park position
Do not shift the transmission into position P unless the vehicle is stationary (Y page 149). The parking lock should not be used as a brake when parking. Always apply the electronic parking brake in addition to the parking lock in order to secure the vehicle. If the vehicle electronics are malfunctioning, the transmission may be locked in position P. Have the vehicle electronics checked immediately at a qualified specialist workshop.
C Reverse gear
Only shift the transmission to R when the vehicle is stationary.
A Neutral
No power is transmitted from the engine to the drive wheels. Releasing the brakes will allow you to move the vehicle freely, e.g. to push it or tow it. If ESP® is deactivated or faulty: only shift the transmission to position N if the vehicle is in danger of skidding, e.g. on icy roads. When you switch off the engine, the automatic transmission automatically shifts into neutral N.
7 Drive
The automatic transmission changes gear automatically. All forward gears are available.
Automatic transmission 143
Changing gear The automatic transmission shifts to the individual gears automatically when it is in transmission position D. This automatic gearshifting behavior is determined by: Rthe selected drive program (Y page 143) Rthe position of the accelerator pedal Rthe road speed
Driving tips Holding the vehicle stationary on uphill gradients G WARNING If the clutch overheats, the electronic management system is automatically deactivated. This interrupts the power transmission. The vehicle may, for example, roll backwards on gradients. There is a risk of an accident. Never hold the vehicle stationary on uphill gradients by depressing the accelerator.
The clutch may overheat if you hold the vehicle stationary on uphill gradients by depressing the accelerator pedal. If the clutch overheats, a warning tone sounds. The Stop Vehicle Shift to P Leave Engine Running display message appears in the multifunction display. You will only be able to continue your journey once the clutch has cooled down and the display message in the multifunction display has disappeared. Never hold the vehicle stationary on uphill gradients by depressing the accelerator. Instead, only ever hold the vehicle stationary on uphill gradients by: Rdepressing the brake pedal Ractivating the HOLD function Rengaging the electric parking brake
Kickdown Use kickdown for maximum acceleration: X Depress the accelerator pedal beyond the
pressure point. The automatic transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.
X Ease off the accelerator pedal once the
desired speed is reached. The automatic transmission shifts back up.
Rocking the vehicle free Shifting the transmission repeatedly between gears D and R may help to free the vehicle if it has become stuck in slush or snow. The vehicle's engine management system limits the speed to a maximum of 5 mph (9 km/h) when shifting back and forth. To shift back and forth between transmission positions D and R, move the selector lever up and down beyond the pressure point.
Program selector button General notes The program selector button allows you to choose between drive programs with different driving characteristics.
Example: program selector button
144 Automatic transmission
E Economy
S Sport M Manual
Comfortable, economical driving Sporty driving style Manual gear shifting
Only change from automatic drive program E or S to manual drive program M when the vehicle is stationary. X Press program selector button :
repeatedly until the letter for the desired gearshift program appears in the multifunction display.
i The automatic transmission shifts to
automatic drive program E each time the engine is started.
i For further information on the automatic
drive program, see (Y page 144).
Steering wheel paddle shifters
the automatic transmission immediately shifts into the next gear down or up. i You can only change gear with the
steering wheel paddle shifters when the transmission is in position D.
i For further information on the manual
drive program, see (Y page 144).
Automatic drive program Drive program E is characterized by the following: Rcomfort-oriented engine settings Roptimal fuel consumption resulting from the automatic transmission shifting up sooner
Rthe vehicle pulling away more gently in forward and reverse gears, unless the accelerator pedal is depressed fully
Rincreased sensitivity. This improves driving
stability on slippery road surfaces, for example
Rthe automatic transmission shifting up sooner. This results in the vehicle being driven at lower engine speeds and the wheels being less likely to spin
Drive program S is characterized by the following: Rsporty engine settings Rthe automatic transmission shifting up
later
: Left steering wheel paddle shifter (shifts
down)
; Right steering wheel paddle shifter (shifts
up)
In drive program M, you can change gear yourself using the steering wheel paddle shifters. If you pull the left or right steering wheel paddle shifter when in automatic drive program E or S, the automatic transmission shifts into drive program M for a limited time. Depending on which paddle shifter is pulled,
Rthe fuel consumption possibly being higher
as a result of the later automatic transmission shift points
Manual drive program Introduction In manual drive program M, you can change gear yourself by using the steering wheel paddle shifters. For this, the transmission must be in position D. The gear currently
Automatic transmission 145
selected and engaged is shown in the multifunction display. Manual drive program M differs from drive programs E and S with regard to spontaneity, responsiveness and smoothness of gear changes. Gear Driving situations = You can use the engine's braking
effect
5 To use the braking effect of the
engine on downhill gradients and for driving: Ron steep mountain roads Rin mountainous terrain Rin arduous conditions
4 To use the braking effect of the
engine on extremely steep downhill gradients and on long downhill stretches
Switching on the manual drive program Activating permanently X Press the program selector button
(Y page 143) repeatedly until M appears in the multifunction display. Manual drive program M remains active until drive program E or S is engaged.
Activating temporarily X Pull the right or left steering wheel paddle
shifter (Y page 144). M is shown in the multifunction display. Manual drive program M is temporarily active. Depending on which paddle shifter is pulled, the automatic transmission immediately shifts into the next gear down or up.
i When manual drive program M is
activated via the steering wheel paddle shifters, the temporarily active manual drive program M will be deactivated automatically after a limited time, if the driving situation permits. In this case, the
automatic transmission shifts into the automatic drive program that was last engaged, i.e. E or S. When driving on downhill gradients, the temporarily active manual drive program M will only be deactivated if the accelerator pedal is depressed while the vehicle is rolling downhill.
Upshifting X Pull the right-hand steering wheel paddle
shifter (Y page 144). The automatic transmission shifts up to the next gear.
X Shift up a gear when the ^ upshift symbol
appears in the display instead of M.
i To prevent engine damage the automatic
transmission shifts up automatically: Rif the maximum engine speed on the
currently engaged gear is reached and
Ryou continue to accelerate.
Downshifting X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle
shifter (Y page 144). The automatic transmission shifts down to the next gear.
i If you slow down or stop without shifting
down, the automatic transmission automatically shifts down.
i For maximum acceleration, pull the left- hand steering wheel paddle shifter until the transmission selects the optimum gear for the current speed.
i If the engine exceeds the maximum engine speed when shifting down, the automatic transmission protects against engine damage by not shifting down.
146 Automatic transmission
Kickdown You can also use kickdown for maximum acceleration in manual drive program M. X Depress the accelerator pedal beyond the
pressure point. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.
X Shift back up once the desired speed is
reached.
i During kickdown, you cannot change gear
using the steering wheel paddle shifters. i If you apply full throttle, the automatic transmission shifts up to the next gear when the maximum engine speed is reached. This prevents the engine from overrevving.
Switching off the manual drive program X Press the program selector button (Y page 143) repeatedly until E or S appears in the multifunction display.
Deactivating the temporary manual drive program X Pull and hold the right-hand steering wheel
paddle shifter until the automatic transmission shifts into the last active automatic drive program: E or S.
i If manual drive program M is deactivated,
the automatic transmission in automatic drive program E or S may shift from the current gear into a higher or lower gear. This is dependent on the position of the accelerator pedal, speed and load.
Refueling 147
Problems with the transmission Problem The transmission has problems shifting gear.
Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The transmission is losing oil. X Have the transmission checked at a qualified specialist
workshop immediately.
The acceleration ability is deteriorating. The transmission no longer shifts into all of the gears. Reverse gear can no longer be engaged.
The transmission is in emergency mode. X Stop the vehicle. X Shift the transmission to position P. X Switch off the engine. X Wait at least 10 seconds before restarting the engine. X Shift the transmission to position D. X Have the transmission checked at a qualified specialist
workshop immediately.
Refueling Important safety notes G WARNING Fuel is highly flammable. If you handle fuel incorrectly, there is a risk of fire and explosion. You must avoid fire, open flames, creating sparks and smoking. Switch off the engine and, if applicable, the auxiliary heating before refueling. G WARNING Fuel is poisonous and hazardous to health. There is a risk of injury. You must make sure that fuel does not come into contact with your skin, eyes or clothing and that it is not swallowed. Do not inhale fuel vapors. Keep fuel away from children. If you or others come into contact with fuel, observe the following: RWash away fuel from skin immediately
using soap and water.
RIf fuel comes into contact with your eyes, immediately rinse them thoroughly with
clean water. Seek medical assistance without delay.
RIf fuel is swallowed, seek medical
assistance without delay. Do not induce vomiting.
RImmediately change out of clothing which
has come into contact with fuel. G WARNING Electrostatic buildup can create sparks and ignite fuel vapors. There is a risk of fire and explosion. Always touch the vehicle body before opening the fuel filler flap or touching the fuel pump nozzle. Any existing electrostatic buildup is thereby discharged.
! Do not use diesel to refuel vehicles with a
gasoline engine. Do not switch on the ignition if you accidentally refuel with the wrong fuel. Otherwise, the fuel will enter the fuel system. Even small amounts of the wrong fuel could result in damage to the fuel system and the engine. The repair costs are high. Notify a qualified specialist workshop and have the fuel tank and fuel lines drained completely.
148 Refueling
Opening X Switch the engine off. X Remove the SmartKey from the ignition
lock.
X Press the fuel filler flap in the direction of
arrow :. The fuel filler flap swings up.
X Turn the fuel filler flap counter-clockwise
and remove it.
X Insert the fuel filler cap into holder on the
inside of fuel filler flap =.
X Completely insert the filler neck of the fuel
pump nozzle into the tank, hook in place and refuel.
X Only fill the tank until the pump nozzle
switches off.
i Do not add any more fuel after the pump
stops filling for the first time. Otherwise, fuel may leak out.
Closing X Replace the cap on the filler neck and turn
clockwise until it engages audibly.
X Close the fuel filler flap. i Close the fuel filler flap before locking the
vehicle.
i If you are driving with the fuel filler cap open, the 8 reserve fuel warning lamp flashes. A message appears in the multifunction display (Y page 214). In addition, the ; Check Engine warning lamp may light up (Y page 231). For further information on warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster, see (Y page 231).
! Overfilling the fuel tank could damage the
fuel system.
! Take care not to spill any fuel on painted surfaces. You could otherwise damage the paintwork.
! Use a filter when refueling from a fuel can. Otherwise, the fuel lines and/or injection system could be blocked by particles from the fuel can.
Do not get into the vehicle again during the refueling process. Otherwise, electrostatic charge could build up again. If you overfill the fuel tank, fuel could spray out when the fuel pump nozzle is removed. For further information on fuel and fuel quality (Y page 330).
Refueling Opening/closing the fuel filler flap
: To open the fuel filler flap ; Tire pressure table = To insert the fuel filler cap ? Fuel type to be used The fuel filler flap is unlocked or locked automatically when you open or close the vehicle with the SmartKey. The position of the fuel filler cap is displayed æ in the instrument cluster. The arrow on the filling pump indicates the side of the vehicle.
Problems with fuel and the fuel tank Problem Fuel is leaking from the vehicle.
The fuel filler flap cannot be opened.
Parking 149
Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The fuel line or the fuel tank is faulty. G WARNING Risk of explosion or fire. X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the ignition lock immediately
and remove it (Y page 135).
X Do not restart the engine under any circumstances. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. The fuel filler flap is not unlocked. or The SmartKey battery is discharged. X Unlock the vehicle (Y page 68). or X Unlock the vehicle using the mechanical key (Y page 69). The fuel filler flap is unlocked, but the opening mechanism is jammed. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.
Parking Important safety notes G WARNING If flammable materials such as leaves, grass or twigs are exposed to prolonged contact to parts of the exhaust system that heat up, they could ignite. There is a risk of fire. Park the vehicle so that no flammable materials come into contact with parts of the vehicle which are hot. Take particular care not to park on dry grassland or harvested grain fields.
G WARNING If you leave children unsupervised in the vehicle, they could set it in motion by, for example: Rreleasing the parking brake Rshifting the automatic transmission out of
the parking position P
Rstarting the engine. They could also operate the vehicle's equipment. There is a risk of an accident and injury. When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Never leave children unsupervised in the vehicle.
! Always secure the vehicle correctly
against rolling away. Otherwise, the vehicle or its drivetrain could be damaged.
150 Parking
To ensure that the vehicle is secured against rolling away unintentionally: Rthe electric parking brake must be applied. Rthe transmission must be in position P and
the transmission position display must show P.
Rthe SmartKey must be removed from the
ignition lock.
Ron uphill or downhill gradients, the front wheels must be turned towards the curb.
Switching off the engine Important safety notes G WARNING The automatic transmission switches to neutral position N when you switch off the engine. The vehicle may roll away. There is a risk of an accident. After switching off the engine, always switch to parking position P. Prevent the parked vehicle from rolling away by applying the parking brake.
Vehicles with automatic transmission X Apply the electric parking brake. X Shift the transmission to position P. X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the
ignition lock and remove it. The immobilizer is activated.
i If you switch the engine off with the
transmission in position R or D, the automatic transmission shifts to N automatically. If you then open one of the front doors or remove the SmartKey from the ignition, the automatic transmission shifts to P. If you shift the automatic transmission to N before switching off the engine, the automatic transmission remains in N even if a door is opened.
i The automatic transmission shifts to P
automatically if you: Rswitch off the engine using the SmartKey
and remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock or
Rswitch off the engine using the SmartKey
and open a front door.
If you attempt to turn off the engine when the selector lever is not in position P: Ra message appears in the multifunction
display
Ra warning signal sounds
Electric parking brake General notes G WARNING If you leave children unsupervised in the vehicle, they could set it in motion by, for example: Rreleasing the parking brake Rshifting the automatic transmission out of
the parking position P
Rstarting the engine. They could also operate the vehicle's equipment. There is a risk of an accident and injury. When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Never leave children unsupervised in the vehicle.
i The electric parking brake performs a
function test at regular intervals while the
Parking 151
engine is switched off. The sounds that can be heard while this is occurring are normal.
Applying/releasing manually Applying X Push handle :.
When the electric parking brake is engaged, the ! red indicator lamp lights up in the instrument cluster.
i The electric parking brake can also be applied when the SmartKey is removed.
Releasing X Pull handle :.
The red ! indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.
i You can only release the electric parking brake when the key is in position 1 or 2 in the ignition lock.
Applying automatically The electric parking brake is applied automatically: Rif DISTRONIC PLUS brings the vehicle to a
standstill or
Rif the HOLD function is keeping the vehicle
stationary
In addition, at least one of the following conditions must be fulfilled: Rthe engine is switched off. Rthe driver's door is open and the seat belt
is not fastened.
Rthere is a system malfunction. Rthe power supply is insufficient. Rthe vehicle is stationary for a lengthy
period.
The red ! indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up. i The electric parking brake is not
automatically engaged if the engine is switched off by the ECO start/stop function.
Releasing automatically Your vehicle's electric parking brake is automatically released if all of the following conditions are met: Rthe engine is running. Rthe transmission is in position D or R. Rthe seat belt has been fastened. Ryou depress the accelerator pedal. If the transmission is in position R, the tailgate must be closed. If your seat belt is not fastened, the following conditions must be fulfilled to automatically release the electric parking brake: Rthe driver's door is closed. Ryou have shifted out of transmission
position P or you have previously driven faster than 2 mph (3 km/h).
Emergency braking The vehicle can also be braked during an emergency by using the electric parking brake. X While driving, push handle : of the electric
parking brake (Y page 150).
i The vehicle is braked for as long as
handle : of the electric parking brake is pressed. The longer electric parking brake handle : is depressed, the greater the braking force. During braking: Ra warning tone sounds Rthe Release Park. Brake message appears
Rthe red ! indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster flashes
When the vehicle has been braked to a standstill, the electric parking brake is engaged.
152 Driving tips
Parking the vehicle for a long period If you leave the vehicle parked for longer than four weeks, the battery may be damaged by exhaustive discharging. If you leave the vehicle parked for longer than six weeks, the vehicle may suffer damage as a result of lack of use. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop and
seek advice.
i You can obtain information about trickle
chargers from a qualified specialist workshop.
Driving tips General notes Important safety notes G WARNING If you switch off the ignition while driving, safety-relevant functions are only available with limitations, or not at all. This could affect, for example, the power steering and the brake boosting effect. You will require considerably more effort to steer and brake. There is a risk of an accident. Do not switch off the ignition while driving. G WARNING If you operate mobile communication equipment while driving, you will be distracted from traffic conditions. You could also lose control of the vehicle. There is a risk of an accident. Only operate this equipment when the vehicle is stationary.
Observe the legal requirements for the country in which you are driving. Some jurisdictions prohibit the driver from using a mobile phone while driving a vehicle. If you make a call while driving, always use hands-free mode. Only operate the telephone when the traffic situation permits. If you are
unsure, pull over to a safe location and stop before operating the telephone. Bear in mind that at a speed of only 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), the vehicle covers a distance of 44 feet (approximately 14 m) per second.
Drive sensibly – save fuel Observe the following tips to save fuel: RThe tires should always be inflated to the
recommended tire pressure. RRemove unnecessary loads. RRemove roof racks when they are not
needed.
RWarm up the engine at low engine speeds. RAvoid frequent acceleration or braking. RHave all maintenance work carried out as
indicated by the service intervals in the Maintenance Booklet or by the service interval display.
Fuel consumption also increases when driving in cold weather, in stop-start traffic and in hilly terrain.
Drinking and driving G WARNING Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and driving are very dangerous combinations. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect your reflexes, perceptions and judgment. The possibility of a serious or even fatal accident are greatly increased when you drink or take drugs and drive. Do not drink or take drugs and drive or allow anyone to drive who has been drinking or taking drugs.
Emission control G WARNING Combustion engines emit poisonous exhaust gases such as carbon monoxide. Inhaling these exhaust gases leads to poisoning. There
Driving tips
153
is a risk of fatal injury. Therefore never leave the engine running in enclosed spaces without sufficient ventilation.
Certain engine systems are designed to keep the level of poisonous components in exhaust fumes within legal limits. These systems only work at peak efficiency if they are serviced exactly in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. For this reason, only have work on the engine carried out by qualified and authorized Mercedes- Benz technicians. The engine settings must not be changed under any circumstances. Furthermore, all specific service work must be carried out at regular intervals and in accordance with the Mercedes-Benz service requirements. Details can be found in the Maintenance Booklet.
ECO display The ECO display gives you information on how economical your driving style is. The ECO display assists you in achieving the optimum driving style in terms of consumption, taking the actual and selected conditions into consideration. Your driving style can significantly influence the vehicle's consumption.
Example: ECO display The ECO display consists of three bars: RAcceleration RConstant RCoasting The percent value is the average value of the three bars. The three bars and the mean value begin at the value of 50%. A higher
percentage indicates a more economical driving style. The ECO display does not indicate the actual fuel consumption and a fixed percentage count in the ECO display does not indicate a fixed consumption figure. Apart from driving style, consumption is dependent on many factors such as, e.g.: RLoad RTire pressure RCold start RChoice of route RElectrical consumers switched on These factors are not taken into consideration by the ECO display. The evaluation of your driving style is carried out using the following three categories: RAcceleration (evaluation of all acceleration processes) - The bar fills up: moderate acceleration,
especially at higher speeds
- The bar empties: sporty acceleration RConstant (assessment of driving behavior at all times) - The bar fills up: constant speed and
avoidance of unnecessary acceleration and deceleration
- The bar empties: fluctuations in speed RCoasting (assessment of all deceleration processes) - The bar fills up: anticipatory driving,
keeping your distance and early release of the accelerator. The vehicle can coast without use of the brakes.
- The bar empties: frequent braking
i An economical driving style specially
requires driving at moderate engine speeds. To achieve a higher value in the categories Acceleration and Constant: Robserve the gearshift recommendations. Rdrive in drive program E.
154 Driving tips
i On long journeys at a constant speed, e.g. on the highway, only the bar for Constant will change.
i The ECO display summaries the driving
characteristics from the start of the journey to its completion. For this reason, the bars change dynamically at the beginning of the journey. On longer journeys, there are fewer changes. For more dynamic changes, carry out a manual reset.
Further information on the ECO display (Y page 190).
Brakes Important safety notes G WARNING If you shift down on a slippery road surface in an attempt to increase the engine's braking effect, the drive wheels could lose their grip. There is an increased danger of skidding and accidents. Do not shift down for additional engine braking on a slippery road surface.
Downhill gradients ! On long and steep gradients, you must
reduce the load on the brakes by shifting to a lower gear in good time. This allows you to take advantage of the engine's braking effect. For this, you need to have selected manual drive program M. This helps you to avoid overheating the brakes and wearing them out excessively. When you take advantage of the engine's braking effect, a drive wheel may not turn for some time, e.g. on a slippery road surface. This could cause damage to the drive train. This type of damage is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz warranty. i Briefly depressing the accelerator pedal
on downhill gradients while the manual drive program M is temporarily activated: the automatic transmission may switch to
the last active automatic drive program E or S. The automatic transmission may shift to a higher gear. This can reduce the engine's braking effect.
Heavy and light loads G WARNING If you rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving, the braking system can overheat. This increases the stopping distance and can even cause the braking system to fail. There is a risk of an accident. Never use the brake pedal as a footrest. Never depress the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal at the same time.
! Depressing the brake pedal constantly
results in excessive and premature wear to the brake pads.
If the brakes have been subjected to a heavy load, do not stop the vehicle immediately. Drive on for a short while. This allows the airflow to cool the brakes more quickly.
Wet roads If you have driven for a long time in heavy rain without braking, there may be a delayed reaction from the brakes when braking for the first time. This may also occur after the vehicle has been washed or driven through deep water. You have to depress the brake pedal more firmly. Maintain a greater distance from the vehicle in front. After driving on a wet road or having the vehicle washed, brake firmly while paying attention to the traffic conditions. This will warm up the brake discs, thereby drying them more quickly and protecting them against corrosion.
Limited braking performance on salt- treated roads If you drive on salted roads, a layer of salt residue may form on the brake discs and
Driving tips
155
brake pads. This can result in a significantly longer braking distance. RBrake occasionally to remove any possible
salt residue. Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when doing so. RCarefully depress the brake pedal and the
beginning and end of a journey.
RMaintain a greater distance to the vehicle
ahead.
Servicing the brakes ! If the red brake warning lamp lights up in
the instrument cluster and you hear a warning tone while the engine is running, the brake fluid level may be too low. Observe additional warning messages in the multifunction display. The brake fluid level may be too low due to brake pad wear or leaking brake lines. Have the brake system checked immediately. This work should be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop.
! A function or performance test should
only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. If you are planning to have the vehicle tested on such a dynamometer, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center to obtain further information first. Otherwise, you could damage the drive train or the brake system.
! As the ESP® system operates
automatically, the engine and the ignition must be switched off (the SmartKey must be in position 0 or 1 in the ignition lock) if: Rthe electric parking brake is tested on a brake dynamometer (for a maximum of ten seconds)
Rthe vehicle is towed with the front axle
raised.
Braking triggered automatically by ESP® may seriously damage the brake system.
All checks and maintenance work on the brake system must be carried out at a
qualified specialist workshop. Consult a qualified specialist workshop to arrange this. Have brake pads installed and brake fluid replaced at a qualified specialist workshop. If the brake system has only been subject to moderate loads, you should test the functionality of your brakes at regular intervals. You can find a description of Brake Assist (BAS) on (Y page 59). Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only have brake pads/linings installed on your vehicle which have been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which correspond to an equivalent quality standard. Brake pads/linings which have not been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which are not of an equivalent quality could affect your vehicle's operating safety. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use brake fluid that has been specially approved for your vehicle by Mercedes-Benz, or which corresponds to an equivalent quality standard. Brake fluid which has not been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which is not of an equivalent quality could affect your vehicle's operating safety.
Checking brake lining thickness You can measure the break pad/lining thickness using a test gauge. Color-coding (green or red) on the test gauge allows you to determine whether the brake pad/lining thickness is still sufficient. The test gauge is in the vehicle document wallet in the glove box.
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Front wheel
Rear wheel X Bring the vehicle and wheels into a suitable position so that you can attach test gauge A.
X Secure the vehicle against rolling away
(Y page 149).
X Move the selector lever to position P. X Switch off the engine. X Place test gauge A between the wheel's
spokes on brake pad/lining =.
X Hold test gauge A vertically on brake
disc : and slide measuring pin ; onto brake disc :.
X Check which color field ? the arrow on
measuring pin ; is pointing to. Green: the brake pad/lining thickness is sufficient. Red: the brake pad/lining thickness is not sufficient. Have the brake pads/lining checked at a qualified specialist workshop.
i To avoid an inaccurate measurement:
Rmake sure you position the wheels
suitably
Rdo not put the measuring pin on a recess
in the brake disc
Driving on wet roads Hydroplaning If water has accumulated to a certain depth on the road surface, there is a danger of hydroplaning occurring, even if: Ryou drive at low speeds. Rthe tires have adequate tread depth. For this reason, in the event of heavy rain or in conditions in which hydroplaning may occur, you must drive in the following manner: Rlower your speed. Ravoid ruts. Rbrake carefully.
Driving on flooded roads ! Do not drive through flooded areas.
Check the depth of any water before driving through it. Drive slowly through standing water. Otherwise, water may enter the vehicle interior or the engine compartment. This can damage the electronic components in the engine or the automatic transmission. Water can also be drawn in by the engine's air suction nozzles and this can cause engine damage.
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Winter driving General notes G WARNING If you shift down on a slippery road surface in an attempt to increase the engine's braking effect, the drive wheels could lose their grip. There is an increased danger of skidding and accidents. Do not shift down for additional engine braking on a slippery road surface. G DANGER If the exhaust pipe is blocked or adequate ventilation is not possible, poisonous gases such as carbon monoxide (CO) may enter the vehicle. This is the case, e.g. if the vehicle becomes trapped in snow. There is a risk of fatal injury. If you leave the engine or the auxiliary heating running, make sure the exhaust pipe and area around the vehicle are clear of snow. To ensure an adequate supply of fresh air, open a window on the side of the vehicle that is not facing into the wind.
Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop at the onset of winter. Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 300).
Driving with summer tires Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 300).
Slippery road surfaces G WARNING If you shift down on a slippery road surface in an attempt to increase the engine's braking effect, the drive wheels could lose their grip. There is an increased danger of skidding and accidents. Do not shift down for additional engine braking on a slippery road surface.
If the vehicle threatens to skid or cannot be stopped when moving at low speed: X Shift the transmission to position N. Drive particularly carefully on slippery road surfaces. Avoid sudden acceleration, steering and braking maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS. The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. Changes in the outside temperature are displayed after a short delay. Indicated temperatures just above the freezing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice. The road may still be icy, especially in wooded areas or on bridges. You should pay special attention to road conditions when temperatures are around freezing point. i For more information on driving with
snow chains, see (Y page 301).
Driving systems Cruise control Important safety notes If you fail to adapt your driving style, cruise control can neither reduce the risk of an accident nor override the laws of physics. Cruise control cannot take into account the road, traffic and weather conditions. Cruise control is only an aid. You are responsible for the distance to the vehicle in front, for vehicle speed, for braking in good time and for staying in your lane. Do not use cruise control: Rin road and traffic conditions which do not allow you to maintain a constant speed e.g. in heavy traffic or on winding roads Ron slippery road surfaces. Braking or
accelerating could cause the drive wheels
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to lose traction and the vehicle could then skid
Rwhen there is poor visibility, e.g. due to fog,
heavy rain or snow
If there is a change of drivers, advise the new driver of the speed stored.
General notes Cruise control maintains a constant road speed for you. It brakes automatically in order to avoid exceeding the set speed. On long and steep downhill gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden, you must select a low gear in good time. For this, you will need to have selected manual drive program M(Y page 144). By doing so, you will make use of the braking effect of the engine, This relieves the load on the brake system and prevents the brakes from overheating and wearing too quickly. Use cruise control only if road and traffic conditions make it appropriate to maintain a steady speed for a prolonged period. You can store any road speed above 20 mph (30 km/h).
Cruise control lever
: To activate or increase speed ; To activate or reduce speed = To deactivate cruise control ? To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
When you activate cruise control, the stored speed is shown in the multifunction display for five seconds.
Activation conditions To activate cruise control, all of the following activation conditions must be fulfilled: Rthe electric parking brake must be
released.
Ryou are driving faster than
20 mph(30 km/h).
RESP® must be active, but not intervening. Ron vehicles with automatic transmission, the selector lever must be in position D.
Storing, maintaining and calling up a speed Storing and maintaining the current speed You can store the current speed if you are driving faster than 20 mph (30km/h). X Accelerate the vehicle to the desired
speed.
X Briefly press the cruise control lever
up : or down ;.
X Remove your foot from the accelerator
pedal. Cruise control is activated. The vehicle automatically maintains the stored speed. i Cruise control may be unable to maintain the stored speed on uphill gradients. The stored speed is resumed when the gradient evens out. Cruise control maintains the stored speed on downhill gradients by automatically applying the brakes.
Storing the current speed or calling up the last stored speed G WARNING If you call up the stored speed and it differs from the current speed, the vehicle accelerates or decelerates. If you do not know the stored speed, the vehicle could accelerate
or brake unexpectedly. There is a risk of an accident. Pay attention to the road and traffic conditions before calling up the stored speed. If you do not know the stored speed, store the desired speed again.
X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards
you ?.
X Remove your foot from the accelerator
pedal. The first time cruise control is activated, it stores the current speed or regulates the speed of the vehicle to the previously stored speed.
Setting a speed Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has accelerated or braked to the speed set. X Press the cruise control lever up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed.
X To adjust the set speed in 1 mph
increments (1 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : or down ; to the pressure point. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up : or down ; the last speed stored is increased or reduced.
X To adjust the set speed in 5 mph
increments (10 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : or down ; to the pressure point. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up : or down ; the last speed stored is increased or reduced.
i Cruise control is not deactivated if you
depress the accelerator pedal. For example, if you accelerate briefly to overtake, cruise control adjusts the vehicle's speed to the last speed stored after you have finished overtaking.
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Deactivating cruise control There are several ways to deactivate cruise control: X Briefly press the cruise control lever
forwards =.
or X Brake. Cruise control is automatically deactivated if: Ryou engage the electric parking brake. Ryou are driving at less than 20 mph
(30 km/h).
RESP® intervenes or you deactivate ESP®. Ryou shift the transmission to position N
while driving. If cruise control is deactivated, you will hear a warning tone. You will see the Cruise Control Off message in the multifunction display for approximately five seconds. i When you switch off the engine, the last
speed stored is cleared.
DISTRONIC PLUS Important safety notes G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS does not react to: Rpeople or animals Rstationary obstacles on the road, e.g.
stopped or parked vehicles
Roncoming and crossing traffic As a result, DISTRONIC PLUS may neither give warnings nor intervene in such situations. There is a risk of an accident. Always pay careful attention to the traffic situation and be ready to brake. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS cannot always clearly identify other road users and complex traffic situations.
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In such cases, DISTRONIC PLUS may: Rgive an unnecessary warning and then
brake the vehicle
Rneither give a warning nor intervene Raccelerate unexpectedly There is a risk of an accident. Continue to drive carefully and be ready to brake, in particular when warned to do so by DISTRONIC PLUS. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS brakes your vehicle with up to 40% of the maximum braking force. If this braking force is insufficient, DISTRONIC PLUS warns you visually and audibly. There is a risk of an accident. In such cases, apply the brakes yourself and try to take evasive action.
! If DISTRONIC PLUS or the HOLD function
is activated, the vehicle brakes automatically in certain situations. To prevent damage to the vehicle, deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS and the HOLD function in the following or other similar situations: Rwhen towing the vehicle Rin the car wash
If you fail to adapt your driving style, DISTRONIC PLUS can neither reduce the risk of accident nor override the laws of physics. DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take into account the road, traffic and weather conditions. DISTRONIC PLUS is only an aid. You are responsible for the distance to the vehicle in front, for vehicle speed, for braking in good time and for staying in your lane. Do not use DISTRONIC PLUS: Rin road and traffic conditions which do not allow you to maintain a constant speed e.g. in heavy traffic or on winding roads Ron slippery road surfaces. Braking or
accelerating could cause the drive wheels
to lose traction and the vehicle could then skid
Rwhen there is poor visibility, e.g. due to fog,
heavy rain or snow
DISTRONIC PLUS may not detect narrow vehicles driving in front, e.g. motorcycles, or vehicles driving on a different line. In particular, the detection of obstacles can be impaired if: Rdirt on the sensors or anything else
covering the sensors
Rsnow or heavy rain Rinterference by other radar sources Rstrong radar reflections, for example, in
parking garages
If DISTRONIC PLUS no longer detects a vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS may unexpectedly accelerate the vehicle to the stored speed. This speed may: Rbe too high if you are driving in a filter lane
or an exit lane
Rbe so high when driving in the right-hand lane that you overtake vehicles in the left- hand lane
Rbe so high when driving in the left-hand lane that you overtake vehicles in the right-hand lane
If there is a change of drivers, advise the new driver of the speed stored.
General notes DISTRONIC PLUS regulates the speed and automatically helps you maintain the distance to the vehicle detected in front. DISTRONIC PLUS brakes automatically so that the set speed is not exceeded. On long and steep downhill gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden, you must select a low gear in good time. For this, you will need to have selected manual drive program M(Y page 154). By doing so, you will make use of the braking effect of the engine. This relieves the load on the brake system and
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