2001 Mercedes-benz C Class Owners Manual

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Central locking system

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If the vehicle has previously been locked from the outside, opening a door from the inside will trigger the alarm. When opening a front door while the central locking system is in the: • selective unlocking mode, only that individual door

is unlocked. The remaining doors, the trunk and fuel filler flap remain locked.

• global unlocking mode, all doors, the trunk and fuel

filler flap are unlocked.

Notes: In case of a malfunction in the central locking system the doors can be locked and unlocked individually. To lock, push down lock buttons or turn mechanical key in driver’s door lock to position 3. In addition lock the trunk.

To unlock, pull inside door handles or turn mechanical key in driver’s door lock to position 2. Rear doors can only be opened from inside by first pulling up the door lock button. When unlocking the driver’s door with the mechanical key, the exterior lamps will flash and the alarm will sound. To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the starter switch or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic main key.

Central locking switch

P54.25-2417-26

1 Locking 2 Unlocking

The central locking switch is located in the center console. The doors and trunk can only be locked with the central locking switch, if both front doors are closed. If the vehicle was previously locked with the central locking switch, while in the selective remote control mode, only the door opened from the inside is unlocked.

Central locking system

33

If the vehicle was previously locked with the central locking switch, while in the global remote control mode, the complete vehicle is unlocked when a door is opened from the inside.

Notes: If the vehicle was previously locked with the remote control, the doors and trunk cannot be unlocked with the central locking switch. The fuel filler flap cannot be locked or unlocked with the central locking switch. If the vehicle has previously been locked from the outside, opening a door from the inside will trigger the alarm. To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the starter switch or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic main key.

Warning! When leaving the vehicle always remove the electronic key from the starter switch, and lock your vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

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Central locking system

34

Automatic central locking With the automatic central locking system activated, the doors and trunk are locked at vehicle speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or more. The fuel filler flap remains unlocked. The automatic central locking function can be switched on or off. See page 111 for “Individual settings”.

Notes: If doors are unlocked with the central locking switch after activating the automatic central locking, and neither door is opened, then the doors remain unlocked even at vehicle speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or more. If a door is opened from the inside at speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or less with the automatic central locking activated, the door will again be automatically locked at speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or more.

Important! When towing the vehicle, or with the vehicle on a dynamometer test stand, please, note the following: With the automatic central locking activated and the electronic key in starter switch position 2, the vehicle doors will lock if the left front wheel as well as the right rear wheel spin at vehicle speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or more. To prevent the vehicle door locks from locking, deactivate the automatic central locking. See page 111 for “Individual settings” - “VEHICLE”.

Emergency unlocking in case of accident The doors unlock automatically a short time after an accident in which an airbag or emergency tensioning retractor deploys (this is intended to aid rescue and exit).

Trunk The lock is located next to the recessed handle. When the trunk is separately locked, it remains locked when centrally unlocking the vehicle. To deny any unauthorized person access to the trunk, lock it separately with the mechanical key. Leave only the electronic main key less its mechanical key with the vehicle.

Notes: In case of a malfunction in the central locking system the trunk can be unlocked individually. To unlock and open the trunk lid, turn mechanical key to position 2, hold and push to open. The mechanical key does not operate the central locking system or antitheft alarm system. When unlocking the trunk with the mechanical key, the exterior lamps will flash and the alarm will sound. To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the starter switch or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic main key. If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, see page 335.

0 Neutral position 1 Separate locking of trunk – remove mechanical key

in this position.

2 Unlocking

Important! Do not place mechanical key inside trunk, since trunk is locked again when closing the lid if the vehicle has been previously centrally locked.

Central locking system

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Instruments and controls

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Central locking system

36

Pull handle (arrow) to open the trunk lid. The trunk lid will swing open automatically. You should always make sure there is sufficient clearance. A minimum height clearance of 5.75 ft. (1.75 m) is required to open the trunk lid.

P88.50-2128-26

Lower trunk lid using handle (1) and close it with hands placed flat on trunk lid. Please remember to keep your fingers out of the space between the lid and the vehicle.

Trunk lid release switch

The switch is located on the driver’s door.

The trunk lid will swing open automatically. You should always make sure there is sufficient clearance. A minimum height clearance of 5.75 ft. (1.75 m) is required to open the trunk lid. To open the trunk, the vehicle must be at standstill. Press switch until trunk lid is open. The indicator lamp in the switch remains on with trunk lid open.

Notes: The trunk can also be opened by using the remote control. Press Š button. The trunk lid cannot be opened by the switch or the remote control when previously locked separately with the mechanical key. To open, see page 35. The trunk lid cannot be opened with the trunk lid release switch when the vehicle was previously locked with the remote control. To unlock vehicle with the remote control, see page 25.

Central locking system

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Instruments and controls

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Antitheft alarm system

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Antitheft alarm system

1 Indicator lamp in switch located in center console The antitheft alarm is automatically armed or disarmed with the remote control by locking or unlocking the vehicle. The antitheft alarm is armed within approximately 10 seconds after locking the vehicle. A blinking lamp (1) indicates that the alarm is armed.

Operation: Once the alarm system has been armed, the exterior vehicle lamps will flash and an alarm will sound when someone: • opens a door, • opens the trunk, • opens the hood, • attempts to raise the vehicle.

The alarm will last approximately 3 minutes in form of flashing exterior lamps. At the same time an alarm will sound for 30 seconds. The alarm will stay on even if the activating element (a door, for example) is immediately closed. If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically. See Tele Aid on page 220.

Notes: When you unlock the driver’s door with the mechanical key, the exterior lamps will flash and the alarm will sound.

To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the starter switch or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic main key.

Tow-away alarm

The switch is located in the center console.

1 Press to switch off tow-away alarm 2 Indicator lamp

Once the alarm system has been armed, the exterior vehicle lamps will flash and an alarm will sound when someone attempts to raise the vehicle.

Tow-away alarm

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Instruments and controls

Tow-away alarm

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The alarm will last approximately 3 minutes in form of flashing exterior lamps. At the same time an alarm will sound for 30 seconds. The alarm will stay on even if the vehicle is immediately lowered. To cancel the alarm, insert the electronic key in the starter switch or press button Œ or ‹ on the electronic main key. If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically. See Tele Aid on page 220. To prevent triggering the tow-away alarm feature, switch off the tow-away alarm before towing the vehicle, or when parking on a surface subject to movement, such as a ferry or auto train.

40

To do so, turn electronic key in starter switch to position 1 or 0, or remove electronic key from starter switch. Press tow-away alarm switch (1). The indicator lamp (2) illuminates briefly. Exit vehicle, and lock vehicle with the electronic main key. The tow-away alarm remains switched off until the vehicle is locked again with the electronic main key, at which time it is automatically reactivated.

Easy-entry/exit feature With the easy-entry/exit feature activated, the steering wheel tilts upwards and the driver’s seat moves rearwards. This allows easier entry into and exit from the vehicle when the driver’s door is opened. However, the engine must be turned off. See page 121 for activating/deactivating the easy-entry/ exit feature.

When the electronic key is inserted in the starter switch and the driver’s door is closed, the steering wheel and the driver’s seat return to the last position set for it.

Warning! You must ensure that no one can become trapped or injured by the moving steering wheel and the driver’s seat with the easy-entry/exit feature activated and you open the driver’s door or remove the electronic key from the starter switch. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

Easy-entry/exit feature

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Instruments and controls

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Front seat adjustment

Warning! Do not adjust the driver’s seat while driving. Adjusting the seat while driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat back reclined. Sitting in an excessively reclined position can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. The seat back and seat belts provide the best restraint when the wearer is in an upright position and belts are properly positioned on the body. Never place hands under seat or near any moving parts while a seat is being adjusted.

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When leaving the vehicle always remove the electronic key from the starter switch, and lock your vehicle. The power seats can also be operated with the driver’s or front passenger door open. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

To operate the front power seat adjustment switches, turn the electronic key in starter switch to position 1 or 2 (with a front door open, the power seats can also be operated with the electronic key removed or in starter switch position 0).

Power seat

The switches are located in each front door.

We recommend to adjust the power seat in the following order:

1 Seat, up/down

Press the switch (up/down direction) until comfortable seating position with still sufficient headroom is reached.

2 Seat adjustment, fore/aft

Press the switch (fore/aft direction) until a comfortable seating position is reached that still allows you to reach the accelerator/brake pedal safely. The position should be as far rearward as possible, consistent with ability to properly operate controls.

3 Seat cushion tilt

Press the switch in the direction of the arrow until your legs are lightly supported.

4 Backrest tilt

Press the switch in the direction of the arrow until your arms are slightly angled when holding the steering wheel.

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Instruments and controls

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5 Head restraint

The height of the head restraint is adjusted automatically with the seat so that the back of the head is supported approximately at ear level. Adjust the head restraint using the switch to support the back of your head approximately at ear level. Only minor personal adjustments, as described below, should then be required. For exterior rear view mirrors, see page 81; inside rear view mirror, see page 80; steering wheel adjustment, see page 79.

Adjust the head restraint angle by hand. Push or pull the head restraint in direction of arrow.

Storing seat positions: The head restraint, steering wheel and exterior rear view mirror position are stored together with the seat position. See page 85 for notes on the memory function. For recalling a stored seat/head restraint/steering wheel/ and exterior rear view mirror position see page 86.

Manual seat

We recommend to adjust the seat in the following order:

1 Fore/aft adjustment

Lift handle (1), slide seat to desired position and allow handle to reengage. Check for proper engagement before driving.

2 Seat cushion tilt

Turn handwheel (2) forward or backward.

3 Seat height adjustment

Press the switch (3) in the direction of the arrow until your legs are lightly supported.

4 Backrest tilt

Press the switch (4) in the direction of the arrow until your arms are slightly angled when holding the steering wheel.

(Standard equipment on Model C 240)

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Head restraint inclination

Push or pull the head restraint in direction of arrow.

5 Head restraint height

Raising: Pull up on head restraint.

Lowering: Push button (5) and push down on head restraint. Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level. The head restraint inclination can also be adjusted manually.

Removal and installation of front seat head restraints Power seat

Caution! Do not remove head restraints except when mounting seat covers. Whenever restraints have been removed be sure to reinstall them before driving.

Note: Tilt the backrest rearward for easier removal and installation of the head restraints. To remove: Press switch (1) upwards and hold until the head restraint is fully extended. Pull head restraint out. To install: Press switch (1) upwards and hold for about 5 seconds. Press the head restraint down until it engages. Adjust head restraint to the desired position.

Warning! For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints. Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level. Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head restraints. Head restraints are intended to help reduce injuries during an accident.

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Instruments and controls

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Warning! For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints. Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level. Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head restraints. Head restraints are intended to help reduce injuries during an accident.

Manual seat

To remove: Pull head restraint to its highest position. Push button (1) and pull out head restraint completely. To install: Insert head restraint and push it down to the stop. Push button (1) and adjust head restraint to the desired position.

Multicontour seat (optional)

We recommend to adjust the multicontour seat in the following order:

1 Seat cushion depth 2 Backrest bottom 3 Backrest center 4 Side bolster adjustment

Some models may be equipped with driver’s multicontour seat. These seats have movable seat cushions and inflatable air cushions built into the backrest to provide additional lumbar and side support. The seat cushion movement and amount of backrest cushion height and curvature can be continuously varied with regulators (1, 2 and 3) after turning the electronic key in starter switch to position 2. The side bolsters of the backrest can be adjusted with rocker switch (4): • press to the left –

increase side support,

• press to the right –

decrease side support.

If the engine is turned off, the last cushion setting is retained in memory, and automatically adjusts the cushion to this setting when the engine is restarted.

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Instruments and controls

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Heated seats (optional)

Press switch to turn on seat heater:

1 Normal seat heating mode. One indicator lamp in

the switch lights up.

2 Rapid seat heating mode. Both indicator lamps in the switch light up. After approximately 5 minutes in the rapid seat heating mode, the seat heater automatically switches to normal operation and only one indicator lamp will stay on.

Turning off seat heater: If one indicator lamp is on, press upper half of switch. If both indicator lamps are on, press lower half of switch. If left on, the seat heater automatically turns off after approximately 30 minutes of operation.

The front seat heaters can be switched on with the electronic key in starter switch position 1 or 2. The switch is located in the center console.

Note: When in operation, the seat heater consumes a large amount of electrical power. It is not advisable to use the seat heater longer than necessary. The seat heaters may automatically switch off if too many power consumers are switched on at the same time, or if the battery charge is low. When this occurs, the indicator lamp in the switch will blink (both indicator lamps blink during rapid seat heating mode). The seat heaters will switch on again automatically as soon as sufficient voltage is available. If the blinking of the indicator lamps is distracting to you, the seat heaters can be switched off.

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Rear seat head restraints

Folding head restraints back with switch in the center console: Turn the electronic key in starter switch to position 1 or 2. Folding head restraints back: Press the symbol-side on the rocker switch to release the head restraints. The head restraints will fold backward for increased visibility.

Folding head restraints back in the rear passenger compartment: Push lock button (1). The head restraints will fold backward.

Place head restraints upright

Important! For safety reasons, always drive with the rear head restraints in the upright position when the rear seats are occupied. Keep the area around head restraints clear of articles (e.g. clothing) to not obstruct the folding operation of the head restraints.

Placing head restraints upright: Pull the head restraint forward until it locks into position.

Angle of head restraints: The head restraint angle can be adjusted manually.

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Head restraint height

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Raising: Pull up on head restraint.

Lowering: Push button (2) and push down on head restraint.

Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level. The head restraint inclination can also be adjusted manually.

Note: The center rear seat head restraint cannot be adjusted or removed.

Seat belts and integrated restraint system Your vehicle is equipped with seat belts for all seats, emergency tensioning retractors for all outboard seat belts, dual front airbags, door mounted side impact airbags, and head protective window curtain airbags. Their protective functions are designed to complement one another.

Seat belts

Important! Laws in most states and all Canadian provinces require seat belt use. All states and provinces require use of child restraints that comply with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. All child restraints systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap belt portion of a lap-shoulder belt. For your safety and that of your passengers we strongly recommend their use.

Warning! Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

Restraint systems

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Warning! Never ride in a moving vehicle with the backrest reclined. Sitting in an excessively reclined position can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The backrest and seat belt provide the best restraint when the wearer is in an upright position and the belt is properly positioned on the body.

Seat belt nonusage warning system With the electronic key in starter switch position 2, a warning sounds for a short time if the driver’s seat belt is not fastened. Automatic comfort-fit seat belt: An automatic comfort-fit feature for driver and front passenger seat belt is activated when the electronic key in the starter switch is turned to position 1 or 2. The retraction force of the inertia reel is reduced, increasing the level of seat belt comfort.

Note: For cleaning and care of the seat belts see page 345.

Warning! Never let more people ride in the vehicle than there are seat belts available. Be sure everyone riding in the vehicle is correctly restrained with a separate seat belt.

Warning! Failure to wear and properly fasten and position your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident. You and your passengers should always wear seat belts. If you are ever in an accident, your injuries can be considerably more severe without your seat belt properly buckled. Without your seat belt buckled, you are much more likely to hit the interior of the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, the possibility of injury or death is lessened if you are wearing your seat belt.

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Restraint systems

Fastening seat belts

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1 Latch plate 2 Buckle 3 Release button

Push latch plate (1) into buckle (2) until it clicks. Do not twist the belt. A twisted seat belt may cause injury.

The lap belt should be positioned as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdomen.

Warning! Always fasten your seat belt before driving off. Always make sure your passengers are properly restrained – even those sitting in the rear.

Tighten the lap portion to a snug fit by pulling shoulder portion up. The shoulder portion of the seat belt must be pulled snug and checked for snugness immediately after engaging it. Adjust seat belt so that shoulder portion is located as close as possible to the middle of your shoulder (it should not touch the neck). For this purpose, you can adjust the height of the belt outlet.

Operation of seat belts The inertia reel stops the belt from unwinding during sudden stops or when quickly pulling on the belt. The locking function of the reel may be checked by quickly pulling out the belt. Adjust seat belt so that shoulder portion is located as close as possible to the middle of your shoulder (it should not touch the neck).

Caution! For safety reasons, avoid adjusting the seat or seat back into positions which could affect the correct seat belt positioning.

Unfastening of seat belts Press release button (3) in the belt buckle (2). Allow the retractor to completely rewind the seat belt by guiding the latch plate (1).

4 Button for belt outlet height adjustment

To raise, slide belt outlet upward. To lower, press button (4) and slide belt outlet downward.

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Warning! USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY.

• Seat belts can only work when used properly. Never wear seat belts in any other way than as described in this section, as that could result in serious injuries in case of an accident.

• Each occupant should wear their seat belt at all

times, because seat belts help reduce the likelihood of and potential severity of injuries in accidents, including rollovers. The integrated restraint system includes “SRS” (driver airbag, front passenger airbag, side impact airbags, head protection window curtain airbags for side windows), “ETR” (seat belt emergency tensioning retractors), and front seat knee bolsters. The system is designed to enhance the protection offered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal (front airbags) and side (side impact and window curtain airbags) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds.

• Never wear the shoulder belt under your arm,

against your neck or off your shoulder. In a crash, your body would move too far forward. That would increase the chance of head and neck injuries. The belt would also apply too much force to the ribs or abdomen, which could severely injure internal organs such as your liver or spleen.

• Never wear belts over rigid or breakable

objects in or on your clothing, such as eyeglasses, pens, keys etc., as these might cause injuries.

• Position the lap belt as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdomen. If the belt is positioned across your abdomen, it could cause serious injuries in a crash.

• Each seat belt should never be used for more

than one person at a time. Do not fasten a seat belt around a person and another person or other objects.

• Belts should not be worn twisted. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to manage impact forces. The twisted belt against your body could cause injuries.

• Pregnant women should also use a lap-

shoulder belt. The lap belt portion should be positioned as low as possible on the hips to avoid any possible pressure on the abdomen.

• Never place your feet on the instrument panel

or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

Warning! USE CHILD RESTRAINTS PROPERLY. Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result.

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in the back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. Children too big for child restraint systems must ride in back seats using regular seat belts. Position shoulder belt across chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper belt positioning.

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BabySmartTM airbag deactivation system Special BabySmartTM compatible child seats, designed for use with the Mercedes-Benz system and available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center are required for use with the BabySmartTM airbag deactivation system. With the special child seat properly installed, the passenger front airbag will not deploy. The ü indicator lamp located in the center console will be illuminated, except with electronic key removed or in starter switch position 0. The system does not deactivate the door mounted side impact airbag.

Self-test BabySmartTM without special child seat installed After turning electronic key in starter switch to position 1 or 2, the ü indicator lamp located in the center console comes on for approximately 6 seconds and then extinguishes. If the indicator lamp should not come on or is continuously lit, the system is not functioning. You must see an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center before seating any child on the front passenger seat. See page 273 for notes on the ü indicator lamp.

Warning! The BabySmartTM airbag deactivation system will ONLY work with a special child seat designed to operate with it. It will not work with child seats which are not BabySmartTM compatible. Never place anything between seat cushion and child seat (e.g. pillow), since it reduces the effectiveness of the deactivation system. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation of special child seats. The passenger front airbag will not deploy only if the ü indicator lamp remains illuminated. Please be sure to check the indicator every time you use the special system child seat. Should the light go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. If the light remains out, do not use the BabySmartTM restraint to transport children on the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens Automotive Corp.

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Airbags are intended as a supplement to seat belts. Airbags alone cannot protect as well as airbags plus seat belts in impacts for which the airbags were designed to operate, and do not afford any protection whatsoever in crashes for which the airbags are not designed to deploy. The SRS uses two crash severity levels (thresholds) to activate either the emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) or front airbag or both. Activation depends on the direction and severity of the impact exceeding the preset thresholds and whether the seat belt is fastened.

Seat belt fastened • first threshold exceeded: ETR activates • second threshold exceeded: airbag also activates

Seat belt not fastened Front seats: • first threshold exceeded: airbag activates, not ETR Rear outer seats: • first threshold exceeded: ETR activates

Driver and front passenger and rear outer seat systems operate independently of each other.

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Emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) The seat belts for the front and rear outer seats are equipped with emergency tensioning retractors. These tensioning retractors are located in each belt’s inertia reel and become operationally ready with the electronic key in starter switch position 1 or 2. The emergency tensioning retractors are designed to activate only when the seat belts are fastened during frontal impacts exceeding the first threshold of the SRS and in rear impacts exceeding a preset severity level.

They remove slack from the belts in such a way that the seat belts fit more snugly against the body restricting its forward movement as much as possible. In cases of other frontal impacts, angled impacts, roll- overs, certain side impacts, or other accidents without sufficient frontal or rear impact forces, the emergency tensioning retractors will not be activated. The driver and passengers will then be protected by the fastened seat belts and inertia reel in the usual manner.

Airbags Front airbags

1 Driver airbag 2 Front passenger airbag

The most effective occupant restraint system yet developed for use in production vehicles is the seat belt. In some cases, however, the protective effect of a seat belt can be further enhanced by an airbag. In conjunction with wearing the seat belts, the driver and front passenger airbags can provide increased protection for the driver and front passenger in certain frontal impacts exceeding preset thresholds. Side impact and head protection window curtain airbags can provide increased protection to belted occupants on the impacted side of the vehicle in side impacts exceeding its preset threshold. The operational readiness of the airbag system is verified by the indicator lamp “SRS” in the instrument cluster when turning the electronic key in starter switch to position 1 or 2. If no fault is detected, the lamp will go out after approximately 4 seconds; after the lamp goes out, the system continues to monitor the components and circuitry of the airbag system and will indicate a malfunction by coming on again. If the lamp does not

P91.60-2252-27

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come on at all or if it fails to extinguish after approximately 4 seconds or if it comes on thereafter, a malfunction in the system has been detected. The following system components are monitored or undergo a self-check: crash-sensor(s), airbag ignition circuits, front seat belt buckles, emergency tensioning retractors, seat sensor. Initially, when the electronic key is turned from starter switch position 0 to position 1 or 2, malfunctions in the crash sensor are detected and indicated (the “SRS” indicator lamp stays on longer than 4 seconds or does not come on). Have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately

In the operational mode, after the indicator lamp has gone out following the initial check, interruptions or short circuits in the airbag ignition circuit and in the driver and front passenger seat belt buckle harnesses, and low voltage in the entire system are detected and indicated.

Warning! In the event a malfunction of the “SRS” is indicated as outlined above, the “SRS” may not be operational. For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the system checked; otherwise the “SRS” may not be activated when needed in an accident, which could result in serious or fatal injury, or it might deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could also result in injury.

Note: See page 271 for information on the supplemental restraint system (SRS) indicator lamp.

The driver and passenger front airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal impacts exceeding a preset threshold. The front passenger airbag deploys only if the front passenger seat is occupied and the ü indicator lamp in the center console is not illuminated.

Note: Heavy objects on the front passenger seat can appear to the “SRS” to indicate the presence of an occupant in that seat which causes the passenger front airbag to deploy in a crash exceeding the appropriate threshold.

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Side impact airbags, window curtain airbags

3 Side impact airbags 4 Window curtain airbags

Side impact airbags The side impact airbags are designed to activate only in certain side impacts exceeding a preset threshold. Only the side impact airbags on the impacted side of the vehicle deploy. The side impact airbag for the front passenger deploys only if the front passenger seat is occupied. Side impact airbags operate best in conjunction with a properly positioned and fastened seat belt.

Note: Heavy objects on front passenger seat can cause the front passenger side impact airbag to deploy in a crash.

Window curtain airbag The head protection window curtain airbags afford greater protection against injuries to the head and upper body. They fill up in the area between the A and C pillars (see arrows) between the side windows and an occupant’s head.

The window curtain airbags are designed to activate only in certain side impacts exceeding a preset threshold. Only the head protection window curtain airbag on the impacted side of the vehicle deploys.

Important! Airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal (front airbags) impacts, or side (side impact and head protection window curtain airbags) impacts which exceed preset thresholds. Only during these types of impacts, if of sufficient severity to meet the deployment thresholds, will they provide their supplemental protection. The driver and passenger should always wear their seat belts, otherwise it is not possible for the airbags to provide their supplemental protection. In cases of other frontal impacts, angled impacts, roll-overs, other side impacts, rear collisions, or other accidents, the airbags will not be activated. The driver and passengers will then be protected by the fastened seat belts. We caution you not to rely on the presence of the airbags in order to avoid wearing your seat belt.

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Warning! Airbags are designed to reduce the potential of injury in certain frontal (front airbags) impacts, or side (side impact and head protection window curtain airbags) impacts which may cause significant injuries, however, no system available today can totally eliminate injuries and fatalities. The activation of the “SRS” temporarily releases a small amount of dust from the airbags. This dust, however, is neither injurious to your health, nor does it indicate a fire in the vehicle. The dust might cause some temporary breathing difficulty for people with asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, you may wish to get out of the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have any breathing difficulty but cannot get out of the vehicle after the airbag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door. The service life of the airbags extends to the date indicated on the label located on the driver side door latch post. To provide continued reliability after that date, they should be inspected by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center at that time and replaced when necessary.

Your vehicle was originally equipped with airbags which are designed to activate in certain impacts exceeding a preset threshold to reduce the potential and severity of injury. It is important to your safety and that of your passenger that you replace deployed airbags and repair any malfunctioning airbags to ensure the vehicle will continue to provide crash protection for occupants.

Warning! To reduce the risk of injury when the front airbags inflate, it is very important for the driver and front passenger to always be in a properly seated position and to wear your seat belt. For maximum protection in the event of a collision always be in normal seated position with your back against the backrest. Fasten your seat belt and ensure that it is properly positioned on your body. Since the airbag inflates with considerable speed and force, a proper seating and hands on steering wheel position will help to keep you at a safe distance from the airbag. Occupants who are unbelted, out of position or too close to the airbag can be seriously injured by an airbag as it inflates with great force in the blink of an eye:

• Sit properly belted in an upright position with

your back against the backrest.

• Adjust the driver seat as far as possible

rearward, still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls. The distance from the center of the driver’s breastbone to the center of the airbag cover on the steering wheel must be at least ten inches (25 cm) or more. You should be able to accomplish this by a combination of adjustments to the seat and steering wheel. If you have any problems, please see your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

• Do not lean with your head or chest close to the

steering wheel or dashboard.

• Keep hands on the outside of steering wheel rim. Placing hands and arms inside the rim can increase the risk and potential severity of hand/arm injury when driver front airbag inflates.

• Adjust the front passenger seat as far as

possible rearward from the dashboard when the seat is occupied.

• Occupants, especially children, should never lean their heads in the area of the door where the side airbag inflates. This could result in serious injuries or death should the airbag be triggered.

• Children 12 years old and under must never

ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized Baby SmartTM compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury can result.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in severe injuries to you or other occupants.

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Safety guidelines for the seat belt, emergency tensioning retractor and airbag

Warning!

• Damaged seat belts or belts that were highly stressed in an accident must be replaced and their anchoring points must also be checked. Use only belts installed or supplied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

• Airbags and “ETR’s” are designed to function

on a one-time-only basis. An airbag or emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) that was activated must be replaced.

• No modifications of any kind may be made to any components or wiring of the “SRS”. This includes changing or removing any component or part of the “SRS”, the installation of additional trim material, badges etc. over the steering wheel hub, front passenger airbag cover, door trim panels, or door frame trims, and installation of additional electrical/ electronic equipment on or near “SRS” components and wiring. Keep area between airbags and occupants free from objects (e.g. packages, purses, umbrellas, etc).

• Do not pass belts over sharp edges. • Do not make any modification that could

change the effectiveness of the belts.

• Do not use handles above doors for placing

such items as coat hangers etc.

• An airbag system component within the

steering wheel gets hot after the airbag has inflated. Do not touch.

• Improper work on the system, including

incorrect installation and removal, can lead to possible injury through an unintended activation of the “SRS”.

• In addition, through improper work there is a

risk of rendering the “SRS” inoperative or causing unintended airbag deployment. Work on the “SRS” must therefore only be performed by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

• For your protection and the protection of others, when scrapping the airbag unit or emergency tensioning retractor, our safety instructions must be followed. These instructions are available from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

• Given the considerable deployment speed and the textile structure of the airbags, there is the possibility of abrasions or other injuries resulting from airbag deployment.

When you sell your vehicle we strongly urge you to give notice to the subsequent owner that it is equipped with an “SRS” by alerting them to the applicable section in the Operator’s Manual.

Infant and child restraint systems We recommend all infants and children be properly restrained at all times while the vehicle is in motion. All lap-shoulder belts except the driver seat belt have special seat belt retractors for secure fastening of child restraints. To activate, pull shoulder belt out completely and let it retract. During the seat belt retraction a ratcheting sound can be heard to indicate that the special seat belt retractor is activated. The belt is now locked. To deactivate, release seat belt buckle and let seat belt retract completely. The seat belt can again be used in the usual manner.

Note: For child seats with mounting fittings for tether anchorages refer to page 75 (installation of infant and child restraint systems).

Warning! Never release the seat belt buckle while vehicle is in motion, since the special seat belt retractor will be deactivated.

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Important! The use of infant or child restraints is required by law in all 50 states and all Canadian provinces. Infants and small children should be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system properly secured by a lap-shoulder belt, and that complies with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. A statement by the child restraint manufacturer of compliance with this standard can be found on the instruction label on the restraint and in the instruction manual provided with the restraint. When using any infant or child restraint system, be sure to carefully read and follow all manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use. Please read and observe warning labels affixed to the inside of the vehicle and to infant or child restraints.

Warning! Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury can result. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions.

Infants and small children should never share a seat belt with another occupant. During an accident, they could be crushed between the occupant and seat belt. Children too big for child restraint systems must ride in back seats using regular seat belts. Position shoulder belt across chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper belt positioning for children from 41 lbs. to the point where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without one. When the child restraint is not in use, remove it from the vehicle or secure it with the seat belt to prevent the child restraint from becoming a projectile in the event of an accident.

Installation of infant and child restraint systems

This vehicle is provided with tether anchorages for a top tether strap at each of the rear seating positions. Prior to installing a tether strap, remove cover (1) from anchorage ring (2) and store in a convenient place (e.g. glove box).

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Child seat mounts

P91.12-2233-26

To secure a tether strap to the anchorage, securely fasten the hook (3), which is part of the tether strap, to the anchorage ring (2). For safety, please make sure that the hook has attached to the ring beyond the safety catch, as illustrated. After removing the tether strap, reinstall the cover (1).

This vehicle is provided with two mounts (at each of the outer rear seats) for the installation of a child seat having the matching mounting fittings. The mounts can be folded back between the seat cushion and the backrest. To install a child seat, the mounts (1) must be folded forward until they lock in place. To do so, grip inner side of mounts and fold forward. Install child seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

To fold mounts (1) back, press down button (2) on each mount and return mount into its catch.

Steering wheel adjustment (manual)

Note: With a child seat installed in the left rear seat, the seat belt for the center seat occupied by a passenger must operate freely. Guide seat belt between its seat cushion mount and backrest mount along outside of right side child seat mount.

Warning! Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. Adjusting the steering wheel while driving, or driving without the adjustment locked could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

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Unlocking: Pull handle (1) out to its stop. Adjusting: Move steering wheel to the desired position. Locking: Push handle (1) in until it engages.

Important! Do not drive the vehicle until you have properly locked the steering column. See “STEERING WH. ADJUST” on page 292 for malfunction and warning messages in the multifunction display.

Steering wheel adjustment (electrical)

Warning! Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. Adjusting the steering wheel while driving could cause the driver to lose the control of the vehicle. When leaving the vehicle always remove the electronic key from the starter switch and lock your vehicle. The steering wheel adjustment feature can also be operated with the driver’s door open. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

To adjust the steering wheel position, turn the electronic key in starter switch to position 1 or 2. With the driver’s