2003 Mercedes-benz C Class Owners Manual

High beam 왘 Push the combination switch forward.

The high beam symbol A in the instrument cluster lights up.

More information can be found in the "Controls in detail" section (컄 page 104).

47

Getting started Driving

Windshield wipers

The combination switch is on the left of the steering column.

Combination switch 1 Single wipe 2 Switching on windshield wipers 왘 Make sure that the ignition is switched

on.

48

Switching on windshield wipers 왘 Turn the combination switch to the de- sired position depending on the inten- sity of the rain. 0 Windshield wipers off Intermittent wiping II Normal wiper speed III Fast wiper speed

Vehicles without rain sensor*: Fast wiper speed III goes to setting II when the vehicle is standing still. Vehicles with rain sensor*: Intermittent wiping interval dependent on wetness of windshield. Wiping will not occur with a front door open.

Vehicles with rain sensor*: Do not leave in intermittent setting when vehicle is taken to an automatic car wash or during windshield cleaning. Wipers will operate in presence of wa- ter sprayed on the windshield, and wip- ers may be damaged as a result. The switch should not be left in inter- mittent setting as the wipers will wipe the windshield once every time the en- gine is started. Dust that accumulates on the windshield might scratch the glass when wiping occurs on a dry windshield.

Single wipe 왘 Press switch briefly in the direction of

arrow 1. The windshield wipers wipe one time without washer fluid.

Wiping with windshield washer fluid 왘 Press switch in the direction of arrow 1

past the resistance point. The windshield wiper operates with washer fluid.

Information on filling up the washer reser- voir can be found in the “Operation” sec- tion (컄 page 241).

If leaves, snow, etc. block the wind- shield wipers, switch off the wipers. 앫 For safety reasons, withdraw key from starter switch. Remove block- age.

앫 Turn the windshield wipers on

again.

If windshield wipers fail to function at all in switch position I, 앫 set the combination switch to the

next highest wiper speed.

앫 have the windshield wipers

checked at the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Getting started Driving

Problems while driving

The engine runs erratically and misfires 앫 An ignition cable may be damaged. 앫 The engine electronics may not be op-

erating properly.

앫 Unburned gasoline may have entered the catalytic converter and damaged it.

왘 Give very little gas. 왘 Have the problem repaired by an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

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Getting started Driving

The coolant temperature is over 248°F (120°C) The coolant is too hot and is no longer cooling the engine. 왘 Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and turn off the engine. Allow engine and coolant to cool.

왘 Check the coolant level and add cool-

ant if necessary (컄 page 238).

In case of accident If the vehicle is leaking gasoline: 왘 Do not start the engine under any cir-

cumstances.

왘 Notify local fire and/or police authori-

ties.

If the extent of the damage cannot be de- termined: 왘 Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center.

If no damage can be determined on the 앫 major assemblies 앫 fuel system 앫 engine mount: 왘 Start the engine in the usual manner.

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Parking and locking You have now completed your first drive. You have properly stopped and parked your vehicle. End your drive as follows.

Warning!

Wait until the vehicle is stationary before re- moving the key from the starter switch. The vehicle cannot be steered when the key is removed.

Warning!

With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering system. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to stop or steer the vehi- cle.

Getting started Parking and locking

Warning!

Parking brake

Do not park this vehicle in areas where com- bustible materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

To reduce the risk of personal injury as a re- sult of vehicle movement, before turning off the engine and leaving the vehicle always: 앫 Keep right foot on brake pedal. 앫 Firmly depress parking brake pedal. 앫 Move the selector lever to position P (manual transmission: first or reverse gear).

앫 Slowly release brake pedal. 앫 When parked on an incline, turn front

wheels towards the road curb.

앫 Turn the key to starter switch position 0

and remove.

앫 Take the key and lock vehicle when

leaving.

1 Release handle 2 Parking brake 왘 Step firmly on parking brake 2.

When the engine is running, the indica- tor lamp ; (USA only) or 3 (Canada only) in the instrument cluster will be illuminated.

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Switching off headlamps

왘 Turn the exterior lamp switch to M

(컄 page 47).

More information can be found in the “Controls in detail” section (컄 page 101).

Getting started Parking and locking

Warning!

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key from the starter switch and lock the ve- hicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Children could release the parking brake and/or move the gear selector lever from position P, either of which could result in an accident and/or serious injury.

Getting out of your vehicle with the selector lever not fully engaged in position P is dan- gerous. Also, when parked on an incline, position P alone may not prevent your vehi- cle from moving, possibly hitting people or objects.

Always set the parking brake in addition to shifting to position P (manual transmission: first or reverse gear).

When parked on an incline, turn front wheel towards the road curb.

52

Turning off engine

왘 Place the gear selector lever in

position P (manual transmission: first or reverse gear).

Always set the parking brake in addi- tion to shifting to position P (manual transmission: first or reverse gear). On steep slopes, turn the front wheels towards the road curb.

왘 Turn the key in the starter switch to

position 0 and remove it. The immobilizer is activated.

Vehicles with automatic transmission: The SmartKey can only be removed from the starter switch with the gear selector lever in position P.

왘 Press the seat belt release button

(컄 page 42).

Getting started Parking and locking

With the SmartKey removed and the driver’s door open, a warning sounds if the vehicle’s exterior lamps are not switched off.

Warning!

To prevent possible personal injury, always keep hands and fingers away from the door openings when closing the doors. Be espe- cially careful when small children are around.

Before closing doors, make sure that there is no possibility of someone getting caught in a door during closing.

왘 After exiting the vehicle press the lock

button ‹ on the key (컄 page 30). The locking knobs on the doors move down.

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the 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 equip- ment may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.

More information can be found in the “Controls in detail” section (컄 page 84).

53

54

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Panic alarm*

Driving safety systems

Anti-theft systems

55

Occupant safety The 1 warning lamp in the instrument cluster (컄 page 22) lights up: 앫 for about four seconds when you turn

the key in the starter switch to position 1.

앫 for about four seconds when you start

the engine by turning the key.

The warning lamp remains lit if the key is turned to position 2 and left there. The warning lamp will go out when you start the engine.

The warning lamp goes out shortly after you start the engine. This shows that the restraint systems are operational. A malfunction in the system has been detected if the 1 warning lamp: 앫 fails to extinguish after approximately

four seconds.

앫 does not come on at all. 앫 comes on after the engine was started

or while driving.

For safety reasons, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the system checked. More information can be found in the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 257).

Safety and Security Occupant safety

In this section you will learn the most im- portant facts about the restraint systems of the vehicle. The restraint systems are 앫 Seat belts 앫 Emergency tensioning device 앫 Airbags 앫 Child seats 앫 Child seat recognition 앫 Lower anchors and tethers for children

(LATCH)

As independent systems their protective effects work in conjunction with each other.

For information on infants and children traveling with you in the vehicle and re- straint systems for infants and chil- dren, see “Children in the vehicle” (컄 page 65).

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Airbags

Warning!

In the event that the SRS malfunction indica- tor lamp lights up during driving or does not come on at all, the SRS may not be opera- tional. For your safety, we strongly recom- mend 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 acci- dent, which could result in serious or fatal injury, or it might deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could also result in injury.

Improper work on the restraint systems, including incorrect installation and removal, can lead to possible injury through an unin- tended 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.

Warning!

Airbags are designed to reduce the potential of injury in certain frontal (front airbags) im- pacts, or side (side impact and head protec- tion 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 releas- es 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 tempo- rary breathing difficulty for people with asth- ma 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.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

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 belts.

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. Oc- cupants who are unbelted, out of position or too close to the airbag can be seriously in- jured by an airbag as it inflates with great force in the blink of an eye:

57

Safety and Security Occupant safety

앫 Sit properly belted in an upright position

with your back against the seat back- rest.

앫 Adjust the driver seat as far as possible rearward, still permitting proper opera- tion of vehicle controls. The distance from the center of the driver’s breast- bone 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 combina- tion of adjustments to the seat and steering wheel. If you have any prob- lems, please see your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

앫 Do not lean with your head or chest close to the steering wheel or dash- board.

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

앫 Adjust the front passenger seat as far as possible rearward from the dashboard when the seat is occupied.

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앫 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. Always sit upright, properly use the seat belts and appropriate size infant or child re- straint system.

앫 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 deacti- vate 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, seri- ous or fatal injury will result.

Failure to follow these instructions can re- sult in severe injuries to you or other occu- pants.

If you sell your vehicle you are responsible to make the buyer aware of these points. Be sure to give the buyer this Operator’s Manu- al.

Warning!

Accident research shows that the safest place for children in an automobile is in the rear seat. Should you choose to place a child 12 years old or under in the front passenger seat of your vehicle, you must properly use a BabySmartTM child restraint which will turn off the passenger side front airbag. BabySmartTM will not, however, turn off any side impact airbag.

It should be noted that with respect to both front and rear side impact airbags there is a possibility for a side airbag related injury if occupants, especially children, are not prop- erly seated or restrained when next to a side airbag which needs to deploy rapidly in a side impact in order to do its job.

To help avoid the possibility of injury, please follow these guidelines:

(1) Occupants, especially children, should

never place their bodies or lean their heads in the area of the door where the side airbag inflates. This could

result in serious injuries or death should the side airbag be activated.

(2) Always sit upright, properly use the seat belts and use an appropriately sized in- fant or child restraint system for all chil- dren 12 years old or under.

(3) Always wear seat belts properly.

If you believe that, even with the use of these guidelines, it would be safer for your rear seat occupants to have both rear door mounted side airbags deactivated, then de- activation can be accomplished upon your written request to do so at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center at an additional cost.

Please contact your local authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call our Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) for details.

Airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal (front airbags) impacts, or side (side impact and head protec- tion window curtain airbags) impacts which exceed preset thresholds. Only during these types of impacts, if of sufficient severity to meet the deploy- ment thresholds, will they provide their supplemental protection. The driver and passenger should al- ways wear their seat belts. Otherwise it is not possible for the airbags to pro- vide their supplemental protection. In cases of other frontal impacts, an- gled impacts, roll-overs, other side im- pacts, rear collisions, or other accidents, the airbags will not be acti- vated. The driver and passengers will then be protected by the fastened seat belts. We caution you not to rely on the pres- ence of the airbags in order to avoid wearing your seat belt.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Your vehicle was originally equipped with airbags that are designed to acti- vate in certain impacts exceeding a pre- set 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 en- sure that the vehicle will continue to provide supplemental crash protection for occupants.

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

Warning!

앫 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 in- stalled or supplied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

앫 Airbags and ETDs are designed to func- tion on a one-time-only basis. An airbag

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Safety and Security Occupant safety

or emergency tensioning device (ETD) that was activated must be replaced. 앫 No modifications of any kind may be made to any components or wiring of the SRS. This includes changing or re- moving any component or part of the SRS, the installation of additional trim material, badges etc. over the steering wheel hub, front passenger airbag cov- er, door trim panels, or door frame trims, and installation of additional elec- trical/electronic equipment on or near SRS components and wiring. Keep area between airbags and occupants free from objects (e.g. packages, purses, umbrellas, etc.).

앫 Do not pass belts over sharp edges.

They could tear.

앫 Do not make any modification that could

change the effectiveness of the belts.

앫 Do not hang items such as coat hangers from the coat hooks or handles over the door. These items may turn into projec- tiles and cause head and other injuries when curtain airbag is deployed.

앫 An airbag system component within the steering wheel gets hot after the airbag has inflated. Do not touch.

앫 Improper work on the system, including incorrect installation and removal, can lead to possible injury through an unin- tended activation of the SRS.

앫 In addition, through improper work

there is a risk of rendering the SRS inop- erative or causing unintended airbag de- ployment. Work on the SRS must therefore only be performed by an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

앫 For your protection and the protection

of others, when scrapping the airbag unit or emergency tensioning device, our safety instructions must be fol- lowed. These instructions are available from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

앫 Given the considerable deployment

speed and the textile structure of the airbags, there is the possibility of abra- sions or other injuries resulting from air- bag deployment.

60

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.

Front airbags

1 Driver airbag 2 Passenger airbag

Driver and passenger airbags are deployed 앫 in the event of a frontal impact 앫 if impact exceeds a preset deployment

threshold

앫 independently of the side impact air-

bags

The airbags will not deploy in impacts which do not exceed the system’s deploy- ment thresholds. You will then be protect- ed by the fastened seat belts. The front passenger airbag will only be de- ployed if 앫 the front passenger seat is occupied 앫 the 7 indicator lamp in the center

console is not lit (컄 page 67)

Do not place objects heavier than 20 lbs (9 kg) on the front passenger seat. This could cause the front or side impact airbag on the front passenger side to deploy in a crash which exceeds the system's deployment threshold.

Side impact airbags, window curtain airbags

3 Side impact airbags 4 Window curtain airbag The side impact airbags and window cur- tain airbags are deployed 앫 on the impacted side of the vehicle 앫 in impacts exceeding a preset deploy-

ment threshold

앫 independently of the front airbags

Safety and Security Occupant safety

The front passenger side airbag will only deploy if the system senses that the front passenger seat is occupied. The side impact airbags are not deployed in impacts which do not exceed the sys- tem’s deployment threshold.

Seat belts

The seat belt nonusage warning lamp < in the instrument cluster lights up and a warning sounds for a short time when you turn the key in the starter switch to position 2 and the driver‘s seat belt is not fastened. After starting the engine the seat belt non- usage warning lamp blinks for a brief peri- od to remind the driver and passengers to fasten the seat belts.

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Safety and Security Occupant safety

The use of seat belts and infant and child restraint systems is required by law in most states and all Canadian provinces. Even where this is not the case, all vehicle occupants should have their seat belts fas- tened whenever the vehicle is in motion. Information on fastening seat belts is found in the “Getting started” section (컄 page 41).

For information on infants and children traveling with you in the vehicle and re- straint systems for infants and chil- dren, see “Children in the vehicle” (컄 page 65).

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Warning!

Warning!

Always fasten your seat belt before driving off. Always make sure your passengers are properly restrained, even those sitting in the rear and pregnant women.

Failure to wear and properly fasten and po- sition 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 properly wearing your seat belt. Airbags can only protect as they are designed if the occupants are prop- erly wearing their seat belts.

Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat 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 seat backrest and seat belt provide the best re- straint when the wearer is in an upright po- sition and the belt is properly positioned on the body.

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!

Warning!

Damaged seat belts or belts that were highly stressed in an accident must be replaced and their anchoring points must also be checked.

Only use seat belts which have been ap- proved by Mercedes-Benz.

Do not make any modifications to the seat belts. This can lead to unintended activation or to failure.

Have all work carried out only by an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center.

USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY 앫 Seat belts can only work when used

properly. Never wear seat belts in any other way than as described in this sec- tion, as that could result in serious inju- ries in case of an accident.

앫 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, includ- ing rollovers. The integrated restraint system includes SRS (driver airbag, front passenger airbag, side impact air- bags, head protection window curtain airbags for side windows), ETD (seat belt emergency tensioning device), and front seat knee bolsters. The system is de- signed to enhance the protection of- fered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal (front airbags) and side (side impact airbags and window curtain airbags) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

앫 Never wear the shoulder belt under your arm, against your neck or off your shoul- der. 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 se- verely injure internal organs such as your liver or spleen.

앫 Never wear belts over rigid or breakable objects in or on your clothing, such as eyeglasses, pens, keys etc., as these might cause injuries.

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

앫 Never use a seat belt for more than one person at a time. Do not fasten a seat belt around a person and another per- son or other objects.

앫 Belts should not be worn twisted. In a

crash, you wouldn’t have the full

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Safety and Security Occupant safety

width of the belt to manage impact forces. The twisted belt against your body could cause injuries.

앫 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 pres- sure on the abdomen.

앫 Never place your feet on the instrument panel or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

64

Emergency tensioning device (ETD), seat belt force limiter The seat belts for the front and rear outer seats are equipped with emergency ten- sioning devices and belt force limiters. The ETD is designed to activate in the fol- lowing cases when the seat belts are fas- tened: 앫 in frontal or rear-end impacts

exceeding a preset severity level

앫 if the restraint systems are operational

and functioning correctly. See 1 indicator lamp (컄 page 56). In an impact, emergency tensioning devic- es remove slack from the belts in such a way that the seat belts fit more snugly against the body. Belt force limiters reduce the force exerted by the seat belts on oc- cupants during a crash.

Warning!

An emergency tensioning device (ETD) that was activated must be replaced.

When scrapping the emergency tensioning device, our safety instructions must be fol- lowed. These are available at your autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Do not place objects heavier than 20 lbs (9 kg) on the front passenger seat. This could cause the front or side impact airbag on the front passenger side to deploy in a crash which exceeds the system's deployment threshold.

Children in the vehicle

If an infant or child is traveling with you in the vehicle: 앫 Secure the child using an infant or child

restraint appropriate to the age and size of the child and recommended for use by Mercedes-Benz.

앫 Ensure that the infant or child is prop- erly secured by a belt at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

Infant and child restraint seats and infor- mation on choosing an appropriate re- straint system can be obtained from any Mercedes-Benz Center.

Infant and child restraint systems Use only a BabySmartTM compatible child restraint for the front passenger seat in this vehicle.

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‘s seat belt have special seat belt retractors for secure fastening of child restraints. To fasten a child restraint, follow child re- straint instructions for mounting. Then pull the 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 acti- vated. The belt is now locked. Push down on child restraint to take up any slack. To deactivate, release seat belt buckle and let seat belt retract completely. The seat belt can again be used in the usual man- ner.

Information on child seats with anchor fittings for tether anchorages (컄 page 68). For information on child seat anchors - “LATCH” type (컄 page 69).

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Warning!

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

The use of infant or child restraints is required by law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territo- ries, 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 or, if so equipped, a child restraint lower anchorage system that complies with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213 and 225 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213 and 210.2. A statement by the child restraint man- ufacturer of compliance with this stan- dard can be found on the instruction

65

Safety and Security Occupant safety

label on the restraint and in the instruc- tion 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 inside of 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 ve- hicle to deactivate the passenger front air- bag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it in- flates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury can result.

66

According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seat- ing 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 and top tether strap, or secured via lower anchors and top tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufactur- er’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.

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.

Warning!

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. un- til they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without a booster.

When the child restraint is not in use, re- move 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 ac- cident.

Do not leave children unattended in the ve- hicle; even if the children are secured in a child restraint system. Unsupervised chil- dren in a child restraint system may use ve- hicle equipment and may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.

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 air- bag deactivation system. With the special child seat properly installed, the passenger front airbag will not deploy.

BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens Automotive Corp.

The 7 indicator lamp located in the center console will be illuminated, except with the key removed or in the starter switch position 0.

The system does not deactivate the side impact airbag.

Self-test BabySmartTM without special child seat installed After turning the key in the starter switch to position 1 or 2, the 7 indicator lamp located in the center console lights up for approx. six seconds and then goes out. If the indicator lamp should not come on or is continuously lit, the system is not func- tioning. You must see an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center before seating any child on the passenger seat. More information can be found in the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 260).

Safety and Security Occupant safety

Warning!

The BabySmartTM airbag deactivation sys- tem 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 sys- tem. The bottom of the child seat must make full contact with the passenger seat cushion. An incorrectly mounted child seat could cause injuries to the child in case of an accident, instead of protecting the child.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation of special child seats. When using a BabySmartTM compatible child seat on the front passenger seat, the front passenger airbag will not deploy only if the 7 indicator lamp remains illuminat- ed.

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Safety and Security Occupant safety

Warning!

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.

Warning!

Do not place powered-on laptops, cell phones and like electronic devices on the front passenger seat. Signals from such de- vices may interfere with the BabySmartTM system. Such signal interference may cause the 7 indicator lamp not to come on during self-test or be continuously lit, indi- cating that the system is not functioning.

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Installation of infant and child restraint systems This vehicle is equipped with tether an- chorages for a top tether strap at each of the rear seating positions.

1 Cover of top anchorage ring 왘 Make sure that the rear backrest is

locked in its upright position (컄 page 200).

Warning!

Always lock backrest in its upright position when rear seat bench is occupied by pas- sengers, or the extended cargo area is not in use. Check for secure locking by pushing and pulling on the backrest.

왘 Remove cover 1 from anchorage

ring 3.

왘 Guide tether strap between head

restraint and top of seat back. Head restraint must be installed (if removable) and positioned such that the top tether strap can pass freely between the head restraint and top of seat back. Make sure that the tether strap is not twisted.

컄컄

Child seat anchors – “LATCH” type This vehicle is equipped with two “LATCH” (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) type anchors (at each of the outer rear seats) for the installation of a “LATCH” child seat with the matching mounting fittings. If a child seat is not installed, the “LATCH” anchors can be folded back between the seat cushion and the backrest.

2 Hook 3 Anchorage ring 왘 Securely fasten the hook 2 to the an-

chorage ring 3.

For safety, make sure that the hook has attached to the ring beyond the safety catch, as illustrated.

왘 Reinstall cover 1 after removing the

tether strap.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

1 Anchors 2 Button 왘 Grip inner side of anchors 1 and fold

forward until they lock in place.

왘 Install child seat according to the man-

ufacturer’s instructions and attach it firmly in the right and left anchors 1.

69

Damaged or impact-damaged child seats or child seat anchors 1 must be replaced.

Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, even if the children are secured in a child restraint system.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

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

To fold anchors back 왘 Press down button 2 on each anchor

and return anchor 1 to its catch.

Non-“LATCH” type child seats may also be used and can be installed using the vehicle’s seat belt system. Install child seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

70

Warning!

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. un- til they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without a booster.

Before installing the child seat, make sure anchors 1 are folded out and locked in place.

Install child seat according to manufactur- er’s instructions.

The child seat must be firmly attached in the right and left side anchors 1.

An incorrectly mounted child seat may come loose during an accident which could result in serious injury or death to your child.

Blocking of rear door window operation

The override switch is located on the door control panel of the driver’s door.

1 Override switch 왘 Slide override switch 1 to the right.

The rear door windows can no longer be operated using the switch located in the rear doors.

Operation of the rear door windows with the switches located on the door control panel of the driver’s door is still possible.

Warning!

Activate the override switch when children are riding in the back seats of the vehicle. The children may otherwise injure them- selves, e.g. by becoming trapped in the win- dow opening.

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key from the starter switch, and lock the ve- hicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equip- ment can cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Safety and Security Occupant safety

For more information on power windows, see the “Controls in detail” section (컄 page 187).

71

Activating

왘 Press and hold button 1 for at least one

second.

Deactivating

왘 Press button 1 again

or

왘 Insert key in starter switch.

For operation in the USA only: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful

interference, and

(2) this device must accept any inter-

ference received, including interfer- ence that may cause undesired operation.

Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Safety and Security Panic alarm* Panic alarm* An audible alarm and blinking exterior lamps will operate for approximately 21/2 minutes.

1 Â button

Canada only: Only vehicles equipped with an anti-theft alarm system* have SmartKeys with integrated panic button 1.

72

Driving safety systems In this section you will find information on the following driving safety systems: 앫 ABS (Antilock Brake System) 앫 BAS (Brake Assist System) 앫 ESP (Electronic Stability Program) 앫 4MATIC* (Four Wheel Electronic Trac-

tion System)

In winter operation, the maximum ef- fectiveness of the ABS, ESP and 4MATIC* is only achieved with winter tires (M+S tires), or snow chains as re- quired.

Warning!

The following factors increase the risk of ac- cidents: 앫 Excessive speed, especially in turns 앫 Wet and slippery road surfaces 앫 Following another vehicle too closely The ABS, BAS, ESP and 4MATIC* cannot re- duce this risk.

Always adjust your driving style to the pre- vailing road and weather conditions.

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

ABS

Warning!

Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pump- ing the brake pedal defeats the purpose of the ABS and significantly reduces braking effectiveness.

The ABS regulates the brake pressure so that the wheels do not lock during braking. This allows you to maintain the ability to steer your vehicle. The ABS is functional above a speed of ap- proximately 5 mph (8 km/h) independent of road surface conditions. At the instant one of the wheels is about to lock up, a slight pulsation can be felt in the brake pedal, indicating that the ABS is in the regulating mode. Keep firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal while experi- encing the pulsation.

73

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

Continuous steady brake pedal pressure yields the advantages provided by the ABS, namely braking power and ability to steer the vehicle. On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will re- spond even with light brake pressure. The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and func- tions as a reminder to take extra care while driving.

To alert following vehicles to slippery road conditions you discover, operate your hazard warning flashers as appro- priate.

Warning!

The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking or steering efficiency be- yond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction. The ABS cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely, or aquaplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The ca- pabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or danger- ous manner which could jeopardize the us- er’s safety or the safety of others.

ABS control The - malfunction indicator lamp in the speedometer lights up when you turn the key in the starter switch to position 2. It goes out when the engine is running. More information can be found in the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 257).

BAS

The Brake Assist System (BAS) operates in emergency situations. If you apply the brakes very quickly, the BAS automatically provides full brake boost, thereby poten- tially reducing the braking distance. Apply continuous full braking pressure until the emergency braking situation is over. The ABS will prevent the wheels from locking. When you release the brake pedal, the brakes function again as normal. The BAS is then deactivated.

74

Warning!

ESP

The BAS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking efficiency beyond that af- forded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction. The BAS cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, following an- other vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of a BAS equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of others.

The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) monitors the vehicle's traction (force of adhesive friction between the tires and the road surface) and handling. The ESP recognizes when a wheel is spin- ning or if the vehicle starts to skid. By ap- plying brakes to the appropriate wheel and by limiting engine output, the ESP works to stabilize the vehicle. The ESP is especially useful while driving off and on wet or slip- pery road surfaces. The ESP warning lamp v in the speed- ometer dial flashes when the ESP is en- gaged. The ESP warning lamp v in the speed- ometer dial lights up when you turn the key in the starter switch to position 2. It goes out when the engine is running.

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

Warning!

Never switch off the ESP when you see the ESP warning lamp v flashing in the speedometer dial. In this case proceed as follows: 앫 While driving off, apply as little throttle

as possible.

앫 While driving ease up on the accelera-

tor.

앫 Adapt your speed and driving style to

the prevailing road conditions.

Failure to observe these guidelines could cause the vehicle to skid.

The ESP cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed.

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Safety and Security Driving safety systems

Warning!

The ESP cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase the traction afforded. The ESP cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, fol- lowing another vehicle too closely, or hydro- planing. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabili- ties of a ESP equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of others.

76

Because of the ESP‘s automatic opera- tion, the engine must be shut off (key in starter switch position 0 or 1) when 앫 the parking brake is being tested on

a brake test dynamometer

앫 the vehicle is being towed with the

front axle raised

Active braking action through the ESP may otherwise seriously damage the rear axle brake system. The ESP will only function properly if you use wheels of the recommended tire size.

More information can be found in the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 256).

Switching off the ESP

Warning!

The ESP should not be switched off during normal driving other than in the circum- stances described below. Disabling of the system will reduce vehicle stability in stan- dard driving maneuvers.

To improve the vehicle's traction, turn off the ESP in driving situations where it would be advantageous to have the drive wheels spin and thus cut into surfaces for better grip such as: 앫 starting out on slippery surfaces and in

deep snow in conjunction with snow chains

앫 in sand or gravel

If one or more drive wheels are spinning, the ESP warning lamp v in the speed- ometer flashes, regardless of the speed. Traction control brakes a spinning wheel even when ESP is deactivated. ESP always operates when you are brak- ing, even when it has been deactivated.

Avoid spinning of a drive wheel for an extended period with the ESP switched off. This may cause serious damage to the drive train which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

Warning!

When the ESP warning lamp v is illuminated continuously, the ESP is switched off.

Adapt your speed and driving to the prevail- ing road conditions and to the non-operating status of the ESP.

Switching on the ESP 왘 Press lower half 2 of the ESP switch

until the ESP warning lamp v in the speedometer goes out. You are now again in normal driving mode.

The switch is located on the center con- sole.

1 ESP off 2 ESP on 왘 Press upper half 1 of the ESP switch

until the ESP warning lamp v in the speedometer lights up. ESP is deactivated.

77

Safety and Security Driving safety systems

Four wheel electronic traction system (4MATIC*) with the ESP

Warning!

Models with all-wheel-drive* only. The 4MATIC improves vehicle’s ability to use available traction, e.g. during winter operation in mountains under snowy con- ditions, by applying power to all four wheels.

If you see the ESP warning lamp v flash- ing in the speedometer dial, proceed as fol- lows: 앫 While driving off, apply as little throttle

as possible

앫 While driving ease up on the accelerator 앫 Adapt your speed and driving style to

the prevailing road conditions

Failure to observe these guidelines could cause the vehicle to skid.

The ESP cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed.

Do not tow with one axle raised. Otherwise the transfer case can be damaged, which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Performance testing must only be con- ducted on a two-axle dynamometer. Otherwise the transfer case can be damaged, which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Because of ESP’s automatic operation, the engine must be shut off (key in starter switch position 0 or 1) when the parking brake is being tested on a brake test dynamometer Active braking action through ESP may otherwise seriously damage the front or rear axle brake system. Operational tests with the engine running can only be conducted on a two-axle dynamometer.

78

Anti-theft systems Immobilizer

The immobilizer prevents unauthorized persons from starting your vehicle.

Activating 앫 Removing the key from the starter

switch activates the immobilizer.

Deactivating 앫 Inserting the key in the starter switch

deactivates the immobilizer.

In case the engine cannot be started (yet the vehicle’s battery is charged), the system is not operational. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (in the USA), or 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada).

Anti-theft alarm system

Once the alarm system has been armed, a visual and audible alarm is triggered when someone opens 앫 a door 앫 the trunk 앫 the hood The alarm system will also be triggered when 앫 someone attempts to raise the vehicle 앫 the vehicle is opened with the mechan-

ical key

If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically by the Tele Aid system* (컄 page 209) provided Tele Aid service was subscribed to and properly activated, and that necessary cellular service and GPS coverage are available.

Safety and Security Anti-theft systems

Arming the alarm system The alarm system is armed after locking the vehicle with the remote control. The turn signal lamps blink three times to indicate that the alarm system is activated. A red indicator lamp in the switch for the tow-away alarm (컄 page 80) will blink after approximately ten seconds when the alarm system is completely armed.

If the turn signal lamps do not blink three times, the tow-away sensor* is malfunctioning or one of the following elements may not be properly closed: 앫 a door 앫 the trunk lid 앫 the hood Close the respective element and lock the vehicle again.

79

Safety and Security Anti-theft systems

Disarming the alarm system The alarm system is disarmed when you unlock your vehicle with the remote control. The turn signal lamps blink once to indicate that the alarm system is deactivated.

The alarm system will rearm automati- cally again after approximately 40 seconds if one of the doors or the trunk lid is not opened.

Canceling the alarm 왘 Insert the key in the starter switch. or 왘 Press the Œ or ‹ button on the

key.

Tow-away alarm

Once the tow-away alarm is armed, a visual and audible alarm will be triggered when someone attempts to raise the vehicle.

The tow-away protection alarm is triggered, for example, if the vehicle is lifted on one side. If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically by the Tele Aid system* (컄 page 209) provided Tele Aid service was subscribed to and properly activated, and that necessary cellular service and GPS coverage are available.

Arming tow-away alarm When you lock your vehicle, the tow-away alarm is automatically armed after about 30 seconds. When you unlock your vehicle, the tow-away protection disarms automatically.

Disarming tow-away alarm To prevent triggering the tow-away alarm feature, switch off the tow-away alarm be- fore towing the vehicle, or when parking on a surface subject to movement, such as a ferry or auto train.

80

왘 Press upper half 1 of the switch.

Indicator lamp 2 in the switch lights up briefly.

The tow-away alarm remains disarmed un- til you lock your vehicle again.

Canceling the alarm 왘 Insert the key in the starter switch. or 왘 Press the Œ or ‹ button on the

key.

The switch is located on the center con- sole.

1 Tow-away alarm off switch 2 Indicator lamp 왘 Turn off the ignition and remove the

key.

You cannot disarm the tow-away alarm if the ignition is turned on.

Safety and Security Anti-theft systems

81

82

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

Seats

Memory function*

Lighting

Instrument cluster

Control system

Manual transmission

Automatic transmission*

Good visibility

Climate control

Automatic climate control*

Audio system

Power windows

Sliding/pop-up roof*

Driving systems

Loading

Useful features

83

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

In the “Controls in detail” section you will find detailed information on how to oper- ate the equipment installed on your vehi- cle. If you are already familiar with the basic functions of your vehicle, this section will be of particular interest to you. To quickly familiarize yourself with the ba- sic functions of the vehicle, refer to the “Getting started” section of this manual. The corresponding page numbers are giv- en at the beginning of each segment.

84

Locking and unlocking Information on locking and unlocking can be found in the “Getting started” section on (컄 page 30) and (컄 page 51).

Keys

Your vehicle comes supplied with two SmartKeys with remote controls and a re- movable mechanical key. The locking tabs for the mechanical key portion of the two keys are a different color to help distin- guish each key unit. The SmartKey provides an extended oper- ating range. To prevent theft, however, it is advisable to only unlock the vehicle when you are in close proximity to it. The Smartkey centrally locks and unlocks: 앫 the doors 앫 the trunk 앫 the fuel filler flap

You can also open and close the power windows (컄 page 188) and slid- ing/pop-up roof* (컄 page 191) using the SmartKey.

SmartKey with remote control 1 ‹ Lock button 2 Š Unlock button for the trunk lid 3 Mechanical key locking tab 4 Œ Unlock button 5 Battery check lamp 6  Panic button* (컄 page 72).

i Canada only: Only vehicles equipped with an anti-theft alarm system* have SmartKeys with integrated panic button* 6.

To prevent possible malfunction, avoid exposing the key to high levels of elec- tromagnetic radiation.

Factory setting

Global unlocking 왘 Press button Œ.

All turn signal lamps blink once. The locking knobs in the doors move up. The vehicle will lock again automatically within approximately 40 seconds of un- locking if neither door nor trunk is opened, the SmartKey is not inserted in the starter switch, or the central locking switch is not activated.

Global locking 왘 Press button ‹.

All turn signal lamps blink three times. The locking knobs in the doors move down.

Selective setting If you frequently travel alone, you may wish to reprogram the key so that pressing Œ only unlocks the driver’s door and the fuel filler flap. 왘 Press and hold buttons Œ and ‹ simultaneously for about five seconds until battery check lamp 5 blinks twice. The key will then function as follows: Unlocking driver’s door and fuel filler flap 왘 Press button Œ once. Global unlocking 왘 Press button Œ twice. Global locking 왘 Press button ‹.

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

Restoring to factory setting 왘 Press and hold buttons Œ and ‹ simultaneously for about six seconds until battery check lamp 5 blinks twice.

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key from the starter switch, take it with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. It is possible for chil- dren to open a locked door from the inside, which could result in an accident and/or serious injury.

85

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

If you can no longer lock or unlock the vehicle with the key, then either the batteries in the SmartKey are dis- charged, the key is malfunctioning or the vehicle battery is drained. 앫 Check the batteries in the key

(컄 page 86) and replace them if necessary (컄 page 286).

앫 Use the mechanical key to lock and unlock the doors (컄 page 285) and the trunk lid (컄 page 91) as re- quired.

앫 Check the vehicle battery

(컄 page 303)

If the key is malfunctioning, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

86

Checking the batteries 왘 Press button ‹ or Œ.

Battery check lamp 5 lights up briefly to indicate that the key batteries are in order.

If battery check lamp 5 does not light up briefly during check, then the key batteries are discharged. Replace the batteries (컄 page 286). You can obtain the required batteries at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter.

Unlocking the trunk lid You can unlock the trunk separately. A minimum height clearance of 5.75 ft. (1.75 m) is required to open the trunk lid. 왘 Press button Š until trunk opens.

The trunk lid swings open upwards au- tomatically. Always make sure that there is sufficient overhead clearance.

The trunk can also be opened from its in- side in an emergency, see “Trunk lid emer- gency release” (컄 page 89).

If the vehicle was previously centrally locked, the trunk lid will lock automati- cally when closed (컄 page 89). The turn signals will flash three times to confirm locking. If the trunk lid was previously separately locked (컄 page 90), the trunk lid will remain locked.

Loss of SmartKey or mechanical key If you lose a SmartKey or mechanical key, you should do the following: 왘 Have the SmartKey deactivated by an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

왘 Report the loss of the SmartKey or the

mechanical key immediately to your car insurance company.

왘 If necessary, have the mechanical lock

replaced.

Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to supply you with a replace- ment.

Opening the doors from the inside

You can open a locked door from the in- side. Open door only when conditions are safe to do so.

1 Locking knob 2 Inside door handle 왘 Pull on door handle 2.

If door was locked, locking knob 1 will move up.

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

If the vehicle has previously been locked from the outside, opening a door from the inside will trigger the anti-theft alarm system. To cancel the alarm, do one of the following: 앫 Press button Œ or ‹ on the

SmartKey.

앫 Insert the SmartKey in the starter

switch.

87

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

Opening the trunk from the inside

You can open the trunk from the inside if the vehicle is stationary. A minimum height clearance of 5.75 ft. (1.75 m) is required to open the trunk lid. The switch is located on the driver’s door.

1 Remote trunk lid release switch with in-

dicator lamp

왘 Press remote trunk lid release

switch 1. The trunk lid opens. The indicator lamp in the switch remains lit as long as the trunk is open.

88

The trunk lid swings open upwards au- tomatically. Always make sure that there is sufficient overhead clearance.

The trunk can also be opened using the SmartKey (컄 page 86) or from its inside in an emergency, see “Trunk lid emergency release” (컄 page 89).

If the vehicle was previously centrally locked, the trunk lid will lock automati- cally when closed (컄 page 89). The turn signals will flash three times to confirm locking. If the vehicle was previously separately locked (컄 page 90) or locked with the SmartKey (컄 page 85), the trunk lid will remain locked.

Opening the trunk

A minimum height clearance of 5.75 ft. (1.75 m) is required to open the trunk lid. The handle is located above the rear li- cense plate recess.

1 Handle 왘 Pull handle 1 to open the trunk lid.

The trunk lid swings open upwards au- tomatically. Always make sure that there is sufficient overhead clearance.

The vehicle must be unlocked.

Controls in detail Locking and unlocking

Closing the trunk

Warning!

Trunk lid emergency release

The emergency release button is located on the inside of the trunk lid.

Only drive with the trunk closed as, among other dangers such as visibility blockage, exhaust fumes may enter the vehicle interior.

To prevent an inadvertent lockout, do not place the key in the trunk.

1 Handle 왘 Lower trunk lid using the handle 1.

Warning!

To prevent possible personal injury, always keep hands and fingers away from the trunk opening when closing the trunk. Be espe-