2006 Mercedes-benz C Class 4matic Owners Manual

The fuel filler flap springs open.

왘 Replace fuel cap by turning it clockwise

Check regularly and before a long trip

until it audibly engages.

왘 Close fuel filler flap.

Leaving the engine running and the fuel cap open can cause the yellow fuel tank reserve warning lamp to flash and the ú malfunction indicator lamp (USA only) or the ± malfunction in- dicator lamp (Canada only) to illumi- nate. For more information, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 352) and (컄 page 353).

1 Coolant 2 Brake fluid (fuse box cover removed) 3 Windshield washer and headlamp

cleaning system*

Opening the hood, see (컄 page 297).

Operation At the gas station

Coolant For normal replenishing, use water (pota- ble water quality). For more information, see “Coolant level” (컄 page 301) and see “Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.” (컄 page 440).

Brake fluid

If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness and leaks immediately. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately. Do not add brake fluid as this will not solve the problem. For more information, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 351).

Removing fuse box cover (컄 page 422).

295

Operation At the gas station

Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning system* For more information on filling up the washer reservoir, see “Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system*” (컄 page 303).

Vehicle lighting Check function and cleanliness. For more information on replacing light bulbs, see “Replacing bulbs” (컄 page 397). Exterior lamp switch (컄 page 118).

Tire inflation pressure More information on tire inflation pressure (컄 page 316).

Engine oil level For more information on engine oil level, see “Engine oil” (컄 page 298).

296

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Pull lever 1 downwards.

왘 Pull handle 2 to its stop out of

왔 Engine compartment Hood

Warning!

Do not pull the release lever while the vehicle is in motion. Otherwise the hood could be forced open by passing air flow.

Opening The hood lock release lever is located to the left of the steering wheel under the dashboard.

The hood is unlocked and handle 2 will extend out of the radiator grille.

To avoid damage to the windshield wipers or hood, never open the hood if the wiper arms are folded forward away from the windshield.

radiator grille.

왘 Pull up on the hood (do not pull up on

the handle) and then release it. The hood will be automatically held open at shoulder height by gas-filled struts.

Warning!

To help prevent personal injury, stay clear of moving parts when the hood is open and the engine is running. Make sure the hood is properly closed before driving. When closing the hood, use extreme caution not to catch hands or fingers.

The radiator fan may continue to run for approximately 30 seconds or even restart after the engine has been turned off. Stay clear of fan blades.

297

2 Handle for opening the hood

1 Hood lock release lever

Operation Engine compartment

Warning!

Closing

Warning!

Be careful that you do not close the hood on anyone.

왘 Let the hood drop from a height of

approximately 1 ft (30 cm). The hood will lock audibly.

왘 Check to make sure the hood is fully

closed. If you can raise the hood at a point above the headlamps, then it is not properly closed. Open it again and let it drop with somewhat greater force.

If you see flames or smoke coming from the engine compartment, or if the coolant tem- perature gauge indicates that the engine is overheated, do not open the hood. Move away from vehicle and do not open the hood until the engine has cooled. If necessary, call the fire department.

Warning!

The engine is equipped with a transistorized ignition system. Because of the high voltage it is dangerous to touch any components (ignition coils, spark plug sockets, diagnos- tic socket) of the ignition system 앫 with the engine running 앫 while starting the engine 앫 if ignition is “on” and the engine is

turned manually

298

Engine oil

The amount of oil your engine needs will depend on a number of factors, including driving style. Higher oil consumption can occur when 앫 the vehicle is new 앫 the vehicle is driven frequently at

higher engine speeds

Engine oil consumption checks should only be made after the vehicle break-in period.

Do not use any special lubricant addi- tives, as these may damage the drive assemblies. Using special additives not approved by Mercedes-Benz may cause damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. More information on this subject is available at any Mercedes-Benz Center.

Checking engine oil level with the oil dipstick When checking the oil level 앫 the vehicle must be parked on level

ground

앫 with the engine at operating tempera- ture, the vehicle must have been sta- tionary for at least 5 minutes with the engine turned off

앫 with the engine not at operating tem- perature yet, the vehicle must have been stationary for at least 30 minutes with the engine turned off

1 Oil dipstick 2 Upper (max) mark 3 Lower (min) mark To check the engine oil level with the oil dipstick, do the following: 왘 Open the hood (컄 page 297). 왘 Pull out oil dipstick 1. 왘 Wipe oil dipstick 1 clean. 왘 Fully insert oil dipstick 1 into the

dipstick guide tube.

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Pull out oil dipstick 1 again after

approximately 3 seconds to obtain ac- curate reading. The oil level is correct when it is be- tween the lower (min) mark 3 and upper (max) mark 2 of oil dipstick 1.

The filling quantity between the upper and lower marks on the oil dipstick is approximately 2.1 US qt. (2.0 l).

왘 If necessary, add engine oil.

For adding engine oil, see “Adding en- gine oil” (컄 page 300).

For more information on engine oil, see “Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.” (컄 page 440). For more information on messages in the multifunction display concerning engine oil, see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 375).

299

Operation Engine compartment

Adding engine oil

Only use approved engine oils and oil filters required for vehicles with Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) or FSS (Canada vehicles). For a listing of approved engine oils and oil filters, refer to the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet in your vehicle literature portfolio, or contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Using engine oils and oil filters of specification other than those expressly required for the Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) or FSS (Canada vehicles), or changing of oil and oil filter at change intervals longer than those called for by the Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) or FSS (Canada Vehicles) will result in engine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

300

Excess oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

왘 Screw filler cap 1 back on filler neck. For more information on engine oil, see the “Technical data” section (컄 page 440) and (컄 page 442).

Transmission fluid level

The transmission fluid level does not need to be checked. If you notice transmission fluid loss or gear shifting malfunctions, have an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center check the transmission.

1 Filler cap 왘 Unscrew filler cap 1 from filler neck. 왘 Add engine oil as required. Be careful

not to overfill with oil.

Be careful not to spill any oil when adding. Avoid environmental damage caused by oil entering the ground or water.

Coolant level

The engine coolant is a mixture of water and anticorrosion/antifreeze. To check the coolant level, the vehicle must be parked on level ground and the engine must be cool.

Warning!

In order to avoid any possibly serious burns: 앫 Use extreme caution when opening the hood if there are any signs of steam or coolant leaking from the cooling system, or if the coolant temperature gauge indi- cates that the coolant is overheated.

앫 Do not remove pressure cap on coolant

reservoir if coolant temperature is above 158°F (70°C). Allow engine to cool down before removing cap. The coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is under pressure.

앫 Using a rag, slowly open the cap

approximately 1/2 turn to relieve excess pressure. If opened immediately, scald- ing hot fluid and steam will be blown out under pressure.

앫 Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which may burn if it comes into contact with hot engine parts.

The coolant expansion tank is located on the passenger side of the engine compart- ment.

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Using a rag, turn cap 2 slowly approx-

imately one half turn to the left to release any excess pressure.

왘 Continue turning the cap to the left and

remove it. The coolant level is correct if the level 앫 for cold coolant: reaches the black

top part of the reservoir

앫 for warm coolant: is approx. 0.6 in

(1.5 cm) higher

왘 Add coolant as required. 왘 Replace and tighten cap. For more information on coolant, see “Coolants” (컄 page 444).

1 Coolant expansion tank 2 Cap

301

G Observe all safety instructions

and precautions when handling automotive batteries.

A Risk of explosion. D Keep flames or sparks away

from battery. Do not smoke.

B Battery acid is caustic. Do not

allow it to come into contact with skin, eyes or clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with clear water and seek medical help if necessary.

E Wear eye protection. C Keep children away. F Follow the instructions in this

Operator’s Manual.

Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Recycling of batteries is the preferred method of disposal. Many states require sellers of batteries to accept old batteries for recycling.

Operation Engine compartment

Battery

Your vehicle’s battery is located in the engine compartment on the right hand side (컄 page 412). The battery should always be sufficiently charged in order to achieve its rated service life. Refer to Maintenance Booklet for battery maintenance intervals. If you use your vehicle mostly for short-distance trips, you will need to have the battery charge checked more frequently. When replacing the battery, always use batteries approved by Mercedes-Benz. If you do not intend to operate your vehicle for an extended period of time, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center about steps you need to observe.

302

Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system*

The windshield washer reservoir is located in the engine compartment.

During all seasons, add MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” to water. Premix the windshield washer fluid in a suitable container.

Warning!

Washer solvent/antifreeze is highly flamma- ble. Do not spill washer solvent/antifreeze on hot engine parts, because it may ignite and burn. You could be seriously burned.

왘 Refill the reservoir with MB Windshield

Washer Concentrate and water (or commercially available premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze, depending on ambient temperatures). Always use washer solvent/antifreeze where temperatures may fall below the freezing point. Failure to do so could result in damage to the washer system/reservoir.

1 Washer fluid reservoir Fluid for the windshield washer system and the headlamp cleaning system* is supplied from the windshield washer reservoir. It has a capacity of: 앫 3.2 US qt (3.0 l) in vehicles without

headlamp cleaning system

앫 6.4 US qt (6.0 l) in vehicles with

headlamp cleaning system

Operation Engine compartment

Only use washer fluid which is suitable for plastic lenses. Improper washer fluid can damage the plastic lenses of the headlamps.

For more information, see “Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning system*” (컄 page 448).

303

Operation Tires and wheels

See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for information on tested and recommended rims and tires for summer and winter operation. They can also offer advice concerning tire service and purchase.

Warning!

Replace rims or tires with the same designa- tion, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further informa- tion. If incorrectly sized rims and tires are mounted: 앫 The wheel brakes or suspension

components can be damaged.

앫 The operating clearance of the wheels and the tires may no longer be correct.

304

Warning!

Important guidelines

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

When replacing rims, only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the particular rim type. Failure to do so can result in the bolts loosening and possibly an accident.

Retreaded tires are not tested or recom- mended by Mercedes-Benz, since previous damage cannot always be recognized on retreads. The operating safety of the vehicle cannot be assured when such tires are used.

앫 Only use sets of tires and rims of the

same type and make.

앫 Tires must be of the correct size for the

rim.

앫 Break in new tires for approximately

60 miles (100 km) at moderate speeds.

앫 Regularly check the tires and rims for

damage. Dented or bent rims can cause tire inflation pressure loss and damage to the tire beads.

앫 If vehicle is heavily loaded, check tire

inflation pressure and correct as required.

앫 Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths under 1/8 in (3 mm).

앫 When replacing individual tires, you should mount new tires on the front wheels first (on vehicles with same-sized wheels all around).

Tire care and maintenance

Warning!

Regularly check the tires for damage. Dam- aged tires can cause tire inflation pressure loss. As a result, you could lose control of your vehicle.

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. For more informa- tion on checking tire inflation pressure see “Recommended tire inflation pressure” (컄 page 314).

Tire inspection Every time you check your tire inflation pressure, you should also inspect your tires for wear and damage for the following: 앫 excessive treadwear (컄 page 306) 앫 cord or fabric showing through the

tire’s rubber

앫 bumps, bulges, cuts, cracks, or splits in

the tread or side of the tire

Replace the tire if you find any of the above conditions. Make sure you also inspect the spare tire periodically for condition and tire inflation pressure. Spare tires will age and become worn over time even if never used, and thus should be inspected and replaced when necessary.

Operation Tires and wheels

Life of tire The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying factors including but not limited to: 앫 Driving style 앫 Tire inflation pressure 앫 Distance driven

Warning!

Tires and spare tire should be replaced after 6 years, regardless of the remaining tread.

305

Operation Tires and wheels

Tread depth Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths under 1/8 in (3 mm). Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These indicators are located in six places on the tread circumference and become visible at a tread depth of approx- imately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), at which point the tire is considered worn and should be replaced. Recommended minimum tire tread depth: 앫 Summer tires 1/8 in (3 mm) 앫 Winter tires 1/6 in (4 mm)

Warning!

Although the applicable federal motor safety laws consider a tire to be worn when the treadwear indicators (TWI) become visible at approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), we recommend that you do not allow your tires

306

to wear down to that level. As tread depth approaches 1/8 in (3 mm), the adhesion properties on a wet road are sharply reduced.

Depending upon the weather and/or road surface (conditions), the tire traction varies widely.

Storing tires

Keep unmounted tires in a cool, dry place with as little exposure to light as possible. Protect tires from contact with oil, grease and gasoline.

Cleaning tires

Never use a round nozzle to power wash tires. The intense jet of water can result in damage to the tire. Always replace a damaged tire.

1 TWI (Tread Wear Indicator) The treadwear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread.

Operation Tires and wheels

Direction of rotation

Loading the vehicle

앫 The Certification label, also found on

Unidirectional tires offer added advan- tages, such as better hydroplaning perfor- mance. To benefit, however, you must make sure the tires rotate in the direction specified. An arrow on the sidewall indicates the intended direction of rotation (spinning) of the tire.

Spare wheels may be mounted against the direction of rotation (spinning) even with a unidirectional tire for temporary use only until the regular drive wheel has been repaired or replaced. Always observe and follow applicable tempo- rary use restrictions and speed limita- tions indicated on the spare wheel.

Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry. 앫 The Tire and Loading Information

placard (Example A) or the Vehicle Tire Information placard (Example B) can be found on the driver’s door B-pillar. This placard tells you important information about the number of people that can be in the vehicle and the total weight that can be carried in the vehicle. It also contains information on the proper size and recommended tire inflation pres- sures for the original equipment tires on your vehicle.

the driver’s door B-pillar tells you about the gross weight capacity of your vehi- cle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. The Certification label also tells you about the front and rear axle weight capacity, called the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). The GAWR is the total allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). Never exceed the GVWR or GAWR for either the front axle or rear axle.

307

Operation Tires and wheels

1 Driver’s door B-pillar Following is a discussion on how to work with the information contained on the two placards with regards to loading your vehicle.

308

Data shown on placard examples are for illustration purposes only. Load lim- it data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illus- trations below. Refer to placard on ve- hicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

Placard (Example A)

Tire and Loading Information

Warning!

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit or vehicle capacity weight as indicated on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

Your vehicle is equipped with either the Tire and Loading Information placard (Example A) or the Vehicle Tire Information placard (Example B).

1 Load limit information on the Tire and

Loading Information placard

The placard showing the load limit informa- tion is located on the driver’s door B-pillar. If your vehicle is equipped with the Tire and Loading Information placard (Example A), locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kilograms or XXX lbs.” on this placard. The combined weight of all occupants, cargo/luggage and trailer tongue load (if applicable) should never exceed the weight referenced in that statement.

Placard (Example B)

The placard showing the load limit informa- tion is located on the driver’s door B-pillar. If your vehicle is equipped with the Vehicle Tire Information placard (Example B), locate the heading “Vehicle Capacity Weight” on this placard. The combined weight of all occupants, cargo/luggage and trailer tongue (if applicable) should never exceed the weight listed next to vehicle capacity weight.

1 Load limit information on the Vehicle

Tire Information placard

Operation Tires and wheels

Seating capacity The seating capacity gives you important information on the number of occupants that can be in the vehicle. Observe front and rear seating capacity. Your vehicle is equipped with either placard Example A or placard Example B located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 308).

Data shown on placard examples are for illustration purposes only. Load lim- it data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illus- trations below. Refer to placard on ve- hicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

309

Operation Tires and wheels

Placard (Example A) 1 Seating capacity

Placard (Example B) 1 Seating capacity

310

Steps for determining correct load limit The following steps have been developed as required of all manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”. Step 1 (Vehicles equipped with placard Example A) 왘 Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.

Step 1 (Vehicles equipped with placard Example B) 왘 Locate the heading “Vehicle Capacity

Weight” on your vehicle’s placard.

Step 2
왘 Determine the combined weight of the

driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

Step 3
왘 Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilo- grams or XXX lbs.

Step 4
왘 The resulting figure equals the avail-

able amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be five 150 lbs passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs (1400-750 (5 x150) = 650 lbs).

Step 5
왘 Determine the combined weight of

luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4.

Step 6 (if applicable) 왘 If your vehicle will be towing a trailer,

load from your trailer will be trans- ferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle (컄 page 313).

The following table shows examples on how to calculate total and cargo load capacities with varying seating configura- tions and number and size of occupants. The following examples use a load limit of 1500 lbs. This is for illustration purposes only. Make sure you are using the actual load limit for your vehicle stated on the vehicle’s placard (컄 page 308).

Operation Tires and wheels

311

Operation Tires and wheels

Example Combined

weight limit of occu- pants and cargo from placard 1500 lbs

1500 lbs

1500 lbs

Number of occupants (driver and passengers)

Seating configura- tion

Occupants weight

Combined weight of all occupants

Available cargo/luggage and trailer tongue weight (total load limit or vehicle capacity weight from plac- ard minus combined weight of all occupants)

front: 2

rear: 3

front: 1
rear: 2

front:1

Occupant 1: 150 lbs Occupant 2: 180 lbs Occupant 3: 160 lbs Occupant 4: 140 lbs Occupant 5: 120 lbs Occupant 1: 200 lbs Occupant 2: 190 lbs Occupant 3: 150 lbs Occupant 1: 150 lbs

750 lbs

1500 lbs - 750 lbs = 750 lbs

540 lbs

1500 lbs - 540 lbs = 960 lbs

150 lbs

1500 lbs - 150 lbs = 1350 lbs

The higher the weight of all occupants, the less cargo and luggage load capacity is available. For more information, see “Trailer tongue load” (컄 page 313).

312

Operation Tires and wheels

Certification label Even after careful determination of the combined weight of all occupants, cargo and the trailer tongue load (if applicable) (컄 page 313) as to not exceed the permis- sible load limit, you must make sure that your vehicle never exceeds the Gross Vehi- cle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. You can obtain the GVWR and GAWR from the Certification la- bel. The Certification Label can be found on the driver’s door B-pillar, see “Technical data” (컄 page 428).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the trailer tongue load (컄 page 313) must never exceed the GVWR. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The to- tal allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). To assure that your vehicle does not ex- ceed the maximum permissible weight limits (GVWR and GAWR for front and rear axle), have the loaded vehicle (including driver, passengers and all cargo and, if ap- plicable, trailer fully loaded) weighed on a suitable commercial scale.

Trailer tongue load The tongue load of any trailer is an impor- tant weight to measure because it affects the load you can carry in your vehicle. If a trailer is towed, the tongue load must be added to the weight of all occupants riding and any cargo you are carrying in the vehicle. The tongue load typically is ten percent of the trailer weight and every- thing loaded in it. Your Mercedes-Benz has been designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. Mercedes-Benz does not recom- mend trailer towing with your vehicle.

313

Operation Tires and wheels

Recommended tire inflation pressure

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being over- heated.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

Your vehicle is equipped with either the Tire and Loading Information placard (Example A) or the Vehicle Tire Information placard (Example B) located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 308).

The tire inflation pressure should be checked regularly and should only be ad- justed on cold tires. The tires can be con- sidered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than one mile (1.6 km). Follow recommended cold tire inflation pressures listed on placard. Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best handling, tread life and riding comfort. In addition to the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar, also consult the fuel filler flap for any additional information pertaining to special driving situations. For more information, see “Important notes on tire inflation pressure” (컄 page 315).

Data shown on placard examples are for illustration purposes only. Tire data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustra- tions below. Refer to placard on vehicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

314

Placard (Example A)

1 Tire and Loading Information placard with recommended cold tire inflation pressures

Placard (Example A) lists the recommend- ed cold tire inflation pressures for maxi- mum loaded vehicle weight. The tire inflation pressures listed apply to the tires installed as original equipment.

Placard (Example B)

Important notes on tire inflation pressure

Warning!

If the tire inflation pressure repeatedly drops: 앫 Check the tires for punctures from

foreign objects.

앫 Check to see whether air is leaking from

the valves or from around the rim.

Tire temperature and tire inflation pressure are also increased while driving, depending on the driving speed and the tire load. If you will be driving your vehicle at high speeds of 100 mph (160 km/h) or higher, where it is legal and conditions allow, consult the placard on the inside of the fuel filler flap on how to adjust the cold tire inflation pressure. If you do not adjust the tire inflation pressure, excessive heat can build up and result in sudden tire failure.

1 Vehicle Tire Information placard with

recommended cold tire inflation pressures

Placard (Example B) lists the recommend- ed cold tire inflation pressures for maxi- mum loaded vehicle weight. The tire inflation pressures listed apply to the tires installed as original equipment.

Placard (Example B) may list recommended cold tire inflation pressures for different vehicle loads.

Operation Tires and wheels

Be sure to readjust the tire inflation pressure for normal driving speeds. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire inflation pressure. Some vehicles may have supplemental tire inflation pressure information for vehicle loads less than the maximum loaded vehicle condition. If such information is provided, it can be found on the placard located on the inside of the fuel filler flap. Tire inflation pressure changes by approxi- mately 1.5 psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air temperature change. Keep this in mind when checking tire inflation pressure where the temperature is different from the outside temperature.

315

Operation Tires and wheels

Checking tire inflation pressure

Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold. The tires can be considered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than one mile (1.6 km). If you check the tire inflation pressure when the tires are warm (the vehicle has been driven for several miles or sitting less than three hours), the reading will be approximately 4 psi (0.3 bar) higher than the cold reading. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the specified cold tire inflation pressure. Otherwise, the tire will be underinflated.

316

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pres- sures.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflating tires can result in sudden deflation (blowout) be- cause they are more likely to become punc- tured or damaged by road debris, potholes, etc.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit or vehicle capacity weight as indicated on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout.

Checking tire inflation pressure manually Follow the steps below to achieve correct tire inflation pressure: 왘 Remove the cap from the valve on one

tire.

왘 Firmly press a tire gauge onto the

valve.

왘 Read tire inflation pressure on tire

gauge and check against the recom- mended tire inflation pressure on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 314). If necessary, add air to achieve the recommended tire inflation pressure.

i If you have overfilled the tire, release tire inflation pressure by pushing the metal stem of the valve with e.g. a tip of a pen. Then recheck the tire inflation pressure with the tire gauge.

왘 Install the valve cap. 왘 Repeat this procedure for each tire.

Run Flat Indicator* (Canada only) While the vehicle is being driven, the Run Flat Indicator monitors the set tire inflation pressures by evaluating each wheel’s rota- tional speed. This allows the system to de- tect a significant loss of pressure in a tire. If a wheel’s rotational speed changes due to falling tire inflation pressure, you will see a corresponding warning message in the multifunction display. The Run Flat Indicator* may function in a restricted manner or with a delay if: 앫 snow chains are mounted to the

vehicle

앫 winter road conditions prevail in

presence of ice and snow

앫 you are driving on a loose surface (e.g.

sand or gravel)

앫 you are driving in a very sporty manner

(involving rapid acceleration or high speeds in curves)

Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

When the multifunction display shows the message Tire pressure Check tires, one or more of your tires is significantly un- der-inflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper tire inflation pressure as indicated on the vehicle’s tire information placard. Driving on a significantly under-in- flated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability. Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when cold and set to the recommended tire infla- tion pressure as specified in the vehicle placard and owner’s manual.

317

Operation Tires and wheels

The recommended tire inflation pres- sures for your vehicle can be found on the tire placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 314). The tire in- flation pressures are not listed in the owner’s manual.

318

Reactivating the Run Flat Indicator* The tire inflation pressure monitor must be reactivated in the following situations: 앫 If you have changed the tire inflation

pressure

앫 If you have replaced the wheels or tires 앫 If you have installed new wheels or

tires

왘 Using the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or, if available, the inside of the fuel filler flap, make sure the tire inflation pressure of all four tires is cor- rect.

Warning!

The Run Flat Indicator* does not provide a warning for wrongly selected tire inflation pressures. Always adjust tire inflation pres- sure according to the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or fuel filler flap.

The Run Flat Indicator* does not replace regular checks of the tire inflation pressures since a gradual pressure loss in all four tires cannot be detected by the Run Flat Indicator*.

The Run Flat Indicator* is not able to issue a warning due to a sudden dramatic loss of tire inflation pressure (e.g. tire blowout caused by a foreign object). In this case bring the vehicle to a halt by carefully apply- ing the brakes and avoiding abrupt steering maneuvers.

Warning!

If you wish to confirm activation: 왘 Press button æ.

The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Run Flat Indicator Reactivated

After a certain “learning phase”, the Run Flat Indicator checks the set pressure values for all four tires. If you wish to cancel activation: 왘 Press button ç. or 왘 Wait until the message

Tire pres. OK now? disappears.

The Run Flat Indicator* can only warn you in a reliable manner if you have set the correct tire inflation pressures for each tire.

If an incorrect tire inflation pressure was set, the system will monitor the pressure according to the incorrect value.

왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 33).

The standard display menu appears in the multifunction display (컄 page 135). 왘 Press button k or j repeatedly until the following message appears in the multifunction display: Run Flat Indicator active Reactivation possible: +

왘 Press button æ.

The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Tire pres. OK now?

Operation Tires and wheels

Potential problems associated with underinflated and overinflated tires

Underinflated tire inflation pressure Underinflated tires can: 앫 cause excessive and uneven tire wear 앫 adversely affect fuel economy 앫 lead to tire failure from being

overheated

앫 adversely affect handling

characteristics

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pres- sures.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

319

Operation Tires and wheels

Overinflated tire inflation pressure Overinflated tires can: 앫 adversely affect handling

characteristics

앫 cause uneven tire wear 앫 be more prone to damage from road

hazards

앫 adversely affect ride comfort 앫 increase stopping distance

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

MOExtended system* (Canada only)

The MOExtended system allows you to continue driving your vehicle even if there is a total loss of pressure in one or more tires. You may only use the MOExtended system in conjunction with the Run Flat Indicator* (컄 page 317). For information on driving in case of pres- sure loss in one or more tires (emergency mode), see the “Practical Hints” section (컄 page 411).

320

Tire labeling

Besides tire name (sales designation) and manufacturer name, a number of markings can be found on a tire. Following are some explanations for the markings on your vehicle’s tires:

Operation Tires and wheels

1 Uniform Quality Grading Standards

(컄 page 328)

Tire size designation, load and speed rating

2 DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)

(컄 page 326)

3 Maximum tire load (컄 page 327) 4 Maximum tire inflation pressure

(컄 page 328) 5 Manufacturer 6 Tire ply material (컄 page 330) 7 Tire size designation, load and speed

rating (컄 page 321)

8 Load identification (컄 page 325) 9 Tire name

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration. For more information, see “Rims and Tires” (컄 page 432).

1 Tire width 2 Aspect ratio in % 3 Radial tire code 4 Rim diameter 5 Tire load rating 6 Tire speed rating

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

321

Operation Tires and wheels

General: Depending on the design standards used, the tire size molded into the sidewall may have no letter or a letter preceding the tire size designation. No letter preceding the size designation (as illustrated above): Passenger car tire based on European design standards. Letter “P” preceding the size designation: Passenger car tire based on U.S. design standards. Letter “LT” preceding the size designation: Light Truck tire based on U.S. design standards. Letter “T” preceding the size designation: Temporary spare tires which are high pressure compact spares designed for temporary emergency use only.

322

Rim diameter The rim diameter 4 (컄 page 321) is the diameter of the bead seat, not the diameter of the rim edge. Rim diameter is indicated in inches (in).

Tire load rating The tire load rating 5 (컄 page 321) is a numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can support. For example, a load rating of 91 corre- sponds to a maximum load of 1356 lbs (615 kg) the tire is designed to support. See also “Maximum tire load” (컄 page 327) where the maximum load as- sociated with the load index is indicated in kilograms and lbs.

Tire width The tire width 1 (컄 page 321) indicates the nominal tire width in mm.

Aspect ratio The aspect ratio 2 (컄 page 321) is the dimensional relationship between tire section height and section width and is expressed in percentage. The aspect ratio is arrived at by dividing section height by section width.

Tire code The tire code 3 (컄 page 321) indicates the tire construction type. The “R” stands for radial tire type. Letter “D” means diag- onal or bias ply construction; letter “B” means belted-bias ply construction. At the tire manufacturer’s option, any tire with a speed capability above 149 mph (240 km/h) can include a “ZR” in the size designation (for example: 245/40 ZR 18). For additional information, see “Tire speed rating” (컄 page 323).

For additional information on tire load rating, see “Load identification” (컄 page 325).

Tire load rating 5 (컄 page 321) and Tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 321) are also referred to as “service descrip- tion”.

Warning

The tire load rating must always be at least half of the GAWR (컄 page 331) of your vehi- cle. Otherwise, tire failure may be the result which may cause an accident and/or seri- ous personal injury to you or others.

Always replace rims and tires with the same designation, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part.

Warning!

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit or vehicle capacity weight as indicated on the placard located on the driver's door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

Operation Tires and wheels

Tire speed rating The tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 321) indicates the approved maximum speed for the tire.

Warning!

Even when permitted by law, never operate a vehicle at speeds greater than the maximum speed rating of the tires.

Exceeding the maximum speed for which tires are rated can lead to sudden tire failure, causing loss of vehicle control and possibly resulting in an accident and/or personal injury and possible death, for you and for others.

Tire load rating 5 (컄 page 321) and Tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 321) are also referred to as “service descrip- tion”.

323

Operation Tires and wheels

Summer tires

앫 At the tire manufacturer’s option, any

Index (Y) ZR

Speed rating up to 100 mph (160 km/h) up to 106 mph (170 km/h) up to 112 mph (180 km/h) up to 118 mph (190 km/h) up to 130 mph (210 km/h) up to 149 mph (240 km/h) up to 168 mph (270 km/h) up to 186 mph (300 km/h) above 186 mph (300 km/h) above 149 mph (240 km/h)

tire with a speed capability above 149 mph (240 km/h) can include a “ZR” in the size designation (for exam- ple: 245/40 ZR18). To determine the maximum speed capability of the tire, the service description for the tire must be referred to. The service description is comprised of the tire load rating 5 (컄 page 321) and the tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 321). If your tire includes “ZR” in the size designation and no service description 5 and 6 (컄 page 321) is given, the tire manufacturer must be consulted for the maximum speed capability.

If a service description 5 and 6 (컄 page 321) is given, the speed capa- bility is limited by the speed symbol in the service description. Example: 245/40 ZR18 97Y. In this example, “97Y” is the service description. The letter “Y” designates the speed rating and the speed capabil- ity of the tire is limited to 186 mph (300 km/h).

앫 Any tire with a speed capability above 186 mph (300 km/h) must include a “ZR” in the size designation AND the service description must be placed in parenthesis. Example: 275/40 ZR 18 (99Y). The “(Y)” speed rating in paren- thesis designates the maximum speed capability of the tire as being above 186 mph (300 km/h). Consult the tire manufacturer for the actual maximum permissible speed of the tire.

324

All-season and winter tires

Load identification

Speed rating Index Q M+S1
up to 100 mph (160 km/h) T M+S1 up to 118 mph (190 km/h) H M+S1 up to 130 mph (210 km/h) V M+S1 up to 149 mph (240 km/h) 1 or M+S.for winter tires

Not all M+S rated tires provide special winter performance. Make sure the tires you use show M+S and the moun- tain/snowflake.marking on the tire sidewall. These tires meet specific snow traction performance require- ments of the Rubber Manufacturers As- sociation (RMA) and the Rubber Association of Canada (RAC) and have been designed specifically for use in snow conditions.

1 Load identification

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

Operation Tires and wheels

In addition to tire load rating, special load information may be molded into the tire sidewall following the letter designating the tire speed rating 1 (컄 page 325). No specification given: absence of any text (like in above example) indicates a standard load (SL) tire. XL or Extra Load: designates an extra load (or reinforced) tire. Light Load: designates a light load tire. C, D, E: designates load range associated with the maximum load a tire can carry at a specified pressure.

325

Operation Tires and wheels

DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)

U.S. tire regulations require each new tire manufacturer or tire retreader to mold a TIN into or onto a sidewall of each tire produced. The TIN is a unique identifier which facili- tates efforts by tire manufactures to notify purchasers in recall situations or other safety matters concerning tires and gives purchasers the means to easily identify such tires. The TIN is comprised of “Manufacturer’s identification mark”, “Tire size”, “Tire type code”, and “Date of manufacture”.

326

DOT (Department of Transportation) A tire branding symbol 1 (컄 page 326) which denotes the tire meets require- ments of the U.S. Department of Transpor- tation.

Manufacturer’s identification mark The manufacturer’s identification mark 2 (컄 page 326) denotes the tire manufacturer. New tires have a mark with two symbols. Retreaded tires have a mark with four sym- bols. For more information on retreaded tires, see (컄 page 304).

Tire size The code 3 (컄 page 326) indicates the tire size.

1 DOT 2 Manufacturer’s identification mark 3 Tire size 4 Tire type code (at the option of the tire

manufacturer)

5 Date of manufacture

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

Tire type code The code 4 (컄 page 326) may, at the option of the manufacturer, be used as a descriptive code for identifying significant characteristics of the tire.

Date of manufacture The date of manufacture 5 (컄 page 326) identifies the week and year of manufac- ture. The first two figures identify the week, starting with “01” to represent the first full week of the calendar year. The second two figures represent the year. For example, “3202” represents the 32nd week of 2002.

Maximum tire load

1 Maximum tire load rating

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

The maximum tire load is the maximum weight the tires are designed to support.

Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit or vehicle capacity weight as indicated on the placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

For more information on tire load rating (컄 page 322). For information on calculating total and cargo load capacities (컄 page 310).

327

Operation Tires and wheels

Maximum tire inflation pressure

1 Maximum permissible tire inflation

pressure

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

This is the maximum permissible tire inflation pressure for the tire.

328

Always follow the recommended tire inflation pressure (컄 page 314) for proper tire inflation.

Warning!

Never exceed the max. tire inflation pressure. Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adverse- ly affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride com- fort, wear unevenly, increase stopping dis- tance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road de- bris, potholes etc.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards (U.S. vehicles)

Tire manufacturers are required to grade tires based on three performance factors: treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance.

1 Treadwear 2 Traction 3 Temperature resistance

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

Quality grades can be found, where appli- cable, on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:

Treadwear Traction Temperature 200

AA

All passenger car tires must conform to federal safety requirements in addition to these grades.

Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rat- ing based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For ex- ample, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Operation Tires and wheels

Traction The traction grades, from highest to low- est, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades rep- resent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction perfor- mance.

Warning!

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

329

Operation Tires and wheels

Temperature The temperature grades are A (the high- est), B, and C, representing the tire’s resis- tance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high tem- perature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and ex- cessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Mo- tor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

330

Warning!

Tire ply material

The temperature grade for this tire is estab- lished for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underin- flation, or excessive loading, either sepa- rately or in combination, can cause excessive heat build-up and possible tire failure.

1 Plies in sidewall 2 Plies under tread

For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.

This marking tells you about the type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread.

Operation Tires and wheels

Tire and loading terminology

Accessory weight The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory-installed equipment (whether installed or not).

Air pressure The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in pounds per square inch (psi), or kilopascal (kPa) or bars.

Aspect ratio Dimensional relationship between tire section height and section width expressed in percentage.

Bar Another metric unit for air pressure. There are 14.5038 pounds per square inch (psi) to 1 bar; there are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to 1 bar.

Bead The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.

Cold tire inflation pressure Tire inflation pressure when your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than one mile (1.6 km).

Curb weight The weight of a motor vehicle with stan- dard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, and, if so equipped, air conditioning and additional optional equipment, but without passen- gers and cargo.

DOT (Department of Transportation) A tire branding symbol which denotes the tire meets requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) The GAWR is the maximum permissible axle weight. The gross vehicle weight on each axle must never exceed the GAWR for the front and rear axle indicated on the certification label located on the driver’s door B-pillar.

331

Kilopascal (kPa) The metric unit for air pressure. There are 6.9 kPa to 1 psi; another metric unit for air pressure is bars. There are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to 1 bar.

Maximum load rating The maximum load in kilograms and pounds that can be carried by the tire.

Maximum loaded vehicle weight The sum of curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight and production options weight.

Maximum tire inflation pressure This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire under normal driving conditions.

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

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

Operation Tires and wheels

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) The GVW comprises the weight of the vehicle including fuel, tools, spare wheel, installed accessories, passengers and cargo and, if applicable, trailer tongue load. The GWV must never exceed the GWVR indicated on the certification label located on the driver’s door B-pillar.

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) This is the maximum permissible vehicle weight of the fully loaded vehicle (weight of the vehicle including all options, passen- gers, fuel, and cargo and, if applicable, trailer tongue load). It is indicated on certification label located on the driver’s door B-pillar.

332

Production options weight The combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over 5 lbs (2.3 kilograms) in excess of those standard items which they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy duty brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special trim.

PSI (Pounds per square inch) A standard unit of measure for air pressure -> bar, kilopascal (kPa).

Recommended tire inflation pressure Recommended tire inflation pressure listed on placard located on driver’s door B-pillar for normal driving conditions. Provides best handling, tread life and riding comfort.

Rim A metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads are seated.

Sidewall The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead.

TIN (Tire Identification Number) Unique identifier which facilitates efforts by tire manufacturers to notify purchasers in recall situations or other safety matters concerning tires and gives purchases the means to easily identify such tires. The TIN is comprised of “Manufacturer’s identifica- tion mark”, “Tire size”, “Tire type code” and “Date of manufacture”.

Operation Tires and wheels

Tire load rating Numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can support.

Tire ply composition and material used This indicates the number of plies or the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and sidewall. Tire manufac- turers also must indicate the ply materials in the tire and sidewall, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.

Tire speed rating Part of tire designation; indicates the speed range for which a tire is approved.

333

Operation Tires and wheels

Traction Force exerted by the vehicle on the road via the tires. The amount of grip provided.

Tread The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road.

Treadwear indicators Narrow bands, sometimes called “wear bars” that show across the tread of a tire when only 1/16 in (1.6 mm) of tread remains.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards A tire information system that provides consumers with ratings for a tire’s traction, temperature and treadwear. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using government testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the sidewall of the tire.

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

Vehicle maximum load on the tire Load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and dividing it by two.

334

Rotating tires

Warning!

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

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

Tire rotation can be performed on vehicles with tires of the same dimension all around. If your vehicle is equipped with tires of the same dimension all around, tires can be rotated, observing a a front-to-rear rotation pattern that will maintain the intended rotation (spinning) direction of the tire (컄 page 307). In some cases, such as when your vehicle is equipped with mixed-size tires (different tire dimension front vs. rear), tire rotation is not possible.

If applicable to your vehicle’s tire configu- ration, tires can be rotated according to the tire manufacturer’s recommended in- tervals in the tire manufacturer’s warranty pamphlet located in your vehicle literature portfolio. If none is available, tires should be rotated every 3000 to 6000 miles (5000 to 10000 km), or sooner if neces- sary, according to the degree of tire wear. The same rotation (spinning) direction must be maintained (컄 page 307). Rotate tires before the characteristic tire wear pattern becomes visible (shoulder wear on front tires and tread center wear on rear tires). Thoroughly clean the mounting face of wheels and brake disks, i.e. the inner side of the wheels/tires, during each rotation. Check for and ensure proper tire inflation pressure.

Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

Have the tightening torque checked after changing a wheel. Wheels could become loose if not tightened with a torque of 80 lb-ft (110 Nm).

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

For information on wheel change, see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 383) and (컄 page 406).

335

Operation Winter driving

Before the onset of winter, have your vehicle winterized at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. This service includes: 앫 Check of anticorrosion and antifreeze

concentration.

앫 Addition of cleaning concentrate to the water of the windshield and headlamp cleaning system. Add MB Concentrate “S” to a premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze which is formulated for below freezing temperatures (컄 page 448).

앫 Battery test. Battery capacity drops

with decreasing ambient temperature. A well charged battery helps to make sure that the engine can be started, even at low ambient temperatures.

앫 Tire change.

Winter tires

Always use winter tires at temperatures