2004 Mercedes-benz C Class Owners Manual

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

Do not use any special lubricant addi- tives, as these may damage the drive assemblies. Using special additives not approved by Mercedes-Benz will restrict your warranty entitlement. More information on this subject is available at any Mercedes-Benz Center.

253

Operation Engine compartment

Checking engine oil level with the control system When checking the oil level the vehicle must 앫 be parked on level ground 앫 be at normal operating temperature 앫 have been stationary for at least five

minutes with the engine turned off

To check the engine oil level via the multifunction display, do the following: 왘 Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch

to position 2.

The standard display (컄 page 113) should appear in the multifunction display. 왘 Press button k or j on the steering wheel until the following message is seen in the multifunction display: ENGINE OIL LEVEL MEASURING NOW MEASURE. CORRECT ONLY IF VEH. LEVEL

254

If you want to interrupt the checking procedure, press the k or j button on the multifunction steering wheel.

왘 If necessary, add engine oil. For adding engine oil see (컄 page 255). More information on engine oil can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 349) and (컄 page 352).

Other display messages If the SmartKey is not turned to position 2 in the starter switch, the following message will appear:

FOR ENGINE OIL LEVEL SWITCH ON IGNITION! 왘 Switch on the ignition.

One of the following messages will subsequently appear in the indicator: 앫 ENGINE OIL LEVEL

OK

앫 ADD 1.0 Qt. TO

REACH MAX. OIL LEVEL!

(Canada: 1.0 LITER)

앫 ADD 1.5 Qts. TO

REACH MAX. OIL LEVEL!

(Canada: 1.5 LITERS)

앫 ADD 2.0 Qts. TO

REACH MAX. OIL LEVEL!

(Canada: 2.0 LITERS)

If you see the message:

OBSERVE WAITING PERIOD 왘 If engine is at normal operating

temperature, wait five minutes before repeating check procedure.

왘 If engine is not yet at normal operating temperature, wait 30 minutes before repeating check procedure.

If you see the message:

ENGINE OIL LEVEL NOT WHEN ENGINE ON! 왘 Turn off the engine. 왘 If the engine is at normal operating

temperature, wait five minutes before checking oil.

왘 If the engine is not yet at normal

operating temperature, you must wait 30 minutes before checking oil.

If there is excess engine oil with the engine at normal operating temperature, the following message will appear:

ENGINE OIL LEVEL REDUCE OIL LEVEL 왘 Have excess oil siphoned or drained

off. Contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

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

More information on messages in the display concerning engine oil can be found in the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 291).

Operation Engine compartment

Adding engine oil

Only use approved engine oils. For a listing of approved engine oils, refer to the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet in your vehicle literature portfolio. In addition, check the oil filler cap for important information pertaining to the engine oil needing to meet a specific Mercedes-Benz specification (e.g. MB 229.5). If such information is printed on the oil filler cap, only use an engine oil from the list of approved engine oils in the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet that meets the specification indicated on the oil filler cap. Using engine oils of other specification may cause the FSS to incorrectly determine the next service interval and will result in engine dam- age not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

255

Operation Engine compartment

C 230 Kompressor Sport 1 Filler cap 왘 Unscrew filler cap 1 from filler neck. 왘 Add engine oil as required. Be careful

not to overfill with oil.

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

256

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

왘 Screw filler cap 1 back on filler neck.

C 240, and C 320 (all models), C 32 AMG 1 Filler cap 왘 Unscrew filler cap 1 from filler neck. 왘 Add engine oil as required. Be careful

not to overfill with oil.

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

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

왘 Screw filler cap 1 back on filler neck. More information on engine oil can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 349) and (컄 page 352).

Transmission fluid level

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

Coolant level

The engine coolant is a mixture of water and anticorrosion/antifreeze. To check the coolant level, the vehicle must be parked on level ground and the engine must be cool. The coolant expansion tank is located on the passenger side of the engine compart- ment.

Warning!

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

앫 Do not remove pressure cap on coolant

reservoir if engine temperature is above 194°F (90°C). Allow engine to cool down before removing cap. The coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is under pressure.

앫 Using a rag, slowly open the cap

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

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

1 Coolant expansion tank

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Using a rag, turn cap slowly approxi-

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

왘 Continue turning the cap to the left and

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

top part of the reservoir

앫 for warm coolant: is approx. 0.6 in

(1.5 cm) higher

왘 Add coolant as required. 왘 Replace and tighten cap. For more information on coolant, see “Coolants” (컄 page 356).

257

G Observe all safety instructions

and precautions when handling automotive batteries.

A Risk of explosion D Keep flames or sparks away B Battery acid is caustic. Do not

from battery. Do not smoke.

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

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

Operator's Manual.

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

Operation Engine compartment

Battery

Your vehicle’s battery is located in the engine compartment (컄 page 323). The battery should always be sufficiently charged in order to achieve its rated service life. Refer to Service Booklet for battery maintenance intervals. If you use your vehicle mostly for short-dis- tance trips, you will need to have the bat- tery charge checked more frequently. When replacing the battery, always use batteries approved by Mercedes-Benz. If you do not intend to operate your vehicle for an extended period of time, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center about steps you need to observe.

258

Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system*

The windshield washer reservoir is located in the engine compartment.

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

headlamp cleaning system*

앫 6.4 US qt (6.0 l) in vehicles with

headlamp cleaning system*

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

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

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

Operation Engine compartment

Warning!

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

For more information, see “Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning* system” (컄 page 358).

259

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

Warning!

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

components can be damaged.

앫 The correct operating clearance of the

wheels and the tires are no longer guaranteed.

260

Warning!

Important guidelines

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

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

Retreaded tires are not tested or recom- mended by Mercedes-Benz, since previous damage cannot always be recognized on retreads. Mercedes-Benz can therefore not assure the operating safety of the vehicle when such tires are used. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for information on tested and recommended rims and tires for summer and winter operation.

앫 Only use sets of tires and rims of the

same type and make.

앫 Tires must be of the correct size for the

rim.

앫 Break in new tires for approximately

60 miles (100 km) at moderate speeds.

앫 Regularly check the tires and rims for

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

앫 If vehicle is heavily loaded, check tire

pressure and correct as required.

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

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

Life of tire

Direction of rotation

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

Warning!

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

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

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

Checking tire inflation pressure

Warning!

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

foreign objects.

앫 Check to see whether air is leaking from

the valves or from around the rim.

Correct the tire pressure only when tires are cold. Regularly check your tire pressure at intervals of no more than 14 days.

Operation Tires and wheels

If the tires are warm you should only correct the tire pressure if it is too low for current operating conditions. A table on the fuel filler flap lists the specified tire inflation pressures for warm and cold tires as well as for various operating conditions.

The pressures listed for light loads are minimum values offering high driving comfort. Increased inflation pressures listed for heavier loads may also be used for light loads. These higher pressures produce favorable handling characteristics. The ride of the vehicle, however, will be somewhat harder. Never exceed the max. values or inflate tires below the min. values listed in the fuel filler flap.

261

Operation Tires and wheels

Tire pressure changes by approx. 1.5 psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air tempera- ture change. Keep this in mind when checking tire pressure where the tempera- ture is different from the outside tempera- ture. Tire temperature and tire pressure are also increased while driving, depending on the driving speed and the tire load. Check the spare tire periodically for condi- tion and inflation. Spare tires will age and become worn over time even if never used, and thus should be inspected and replaced when necessary.

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

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified vehicle capacity weight (as indi- cated by the label on the pillar in the driver’s door opening). Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout.

Rotate the wheels before the characteris- tic tire wear pattern becomes visible (shoulder wear on front wheels and tread center wear on rear wheels). Thoroughly clean the inner side of the wheels after each rotation. Check and ensure proper tire inflation pressure.

Warning!

Rotating wheels

Warning!

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

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

Warning!

Rotate front and rear wheels only if they are of the same size.

Follow recommended inflation pressures.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes, etc.

On vehicles with the same wheel size all around, wheels can be rotated every 3000 to 6000 miles (5000 to 10000 km), or sooner if necessary, according to the degree of tire wear. The same direction of tire rotation must be retained.

262

Winter tires

Always use winter tires at temperatures below 45°F (7°C) and whenever wintry road conditions prevail. Use of winter tires is the only way to achieve the maximum effectiveness of the ABS, ESP and 4MATIC in winter operation. For safe handling, ensure that all mounted winter tires are of the same make and have the same tread design.

Warning!

Winter tires with a tread depth under 1/6 in (4 mm) must be replaced. They are no longer suitable for winter operation.

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

concentration.

앫 Addition of cleaning concentrate to the water of the windshield and headlamp cleaning system. Add MB Concentrate “S” to a premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze which is formulated for below freezing temperatures (컄 page 358).

앫 Battery test. Battery capacity drops

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

앫 Tire change. Mercedes-Benz recom-

mends M+S rated radial-ply tires with a minimum tread depth of approximately 1/6 in (4 mm) on all four wheels for the winter season.

Operation Winter driving

Always observe the speed rating of the winter tires installed on your vehicle. If the maximum speed for which your tires are rated is below the speed rating of your vehicle, you must place a notice to this effect where it will be seen by the driver. Such notices are available from your tire dealer or from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Warning!

If you use your spare tire when winter tires are fitted on the other wheels, be aware that the difference in tire characteristics may very well impair turning stability and that overall driving stability may be reduced. Adapt your driving style accordingly.

Have the spare tire replaced with a winter tire at the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

263

Operation Winter driving

Block heater (Canada only)

Snow chains

The engine is equipped with a block heater. The electrical cable may be installed at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Snow chains should only be driven on snow-covered roads at speeds not to exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). Remove chains as soon as possible when driving on roads without snow.

When driving with snow chains, you may wish to deactivate the ESP (컄 page 74) before setting the vehicle in motion. This will improve the vehicle‘s traction.

Please observe the following guidelines when using snow chains: 앫 Use of snow chains is not permissible

with all wheel/tire combinations.

앫 Snow chains should only be used on the rear wheels. Follow the manufac- turer's mounting instructions.

앫 Only use snow chains that are

approved by Mercedes-Benz. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to advise you on this subject. 앫 Use of snow chains may be prohibited depending on location. Always check local and state laws before installing snow chains.

Even on vehicles with all-wheel-drive use snow chains on rear tires only. Use of snow chains is not permissible with tire sizes: 앫 225/45 R17 91H M+S 앫 225/45 R17 91W 앫 245/40 R17 91W 앫 245/40 R17 91Y 앫 245/40 ZR17 91Y 앫 T 125/90 R16 98M 앫 T 125/80 R17 99M

264

왔 Maintenance We strongly recommend that you have your vehicle serviced by your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, in accordance with the Service Booklet at the times called for by the FSS (Flexible Service System). Failure to have the vehicle maintained in accordance with the Service Booklet at the designated times/mileage called for by the FSS may result in vehicle damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. FSS will notify you when your next service is due. Approximately one month before your next service is due, one of the following messages will appear in the multifunction display while you are driving or when you switch on the ignition (example service A):

SERVICE A IN XX DAYS SERVICE A IN XX MILES (KM) SERVICE A DUE NOW!

The type of service due is indicated in the multifunction display: 9 Minor service (A) ´ Major service (B)

The interval between services depends on your driving habits. A gentle driving style, moderate engine speeds and the avoidance of short-distance trips will lengthen the interval between services.

Operation Maintenance

Clearing the service indicator

The service indicator is automatically cleared 앫 after ten seconds when you switch on

the ignition or when reaching the service threshold while driving

앫 after 30 seconds, once the suggested

service term has passed

You can also clear it yourself. 왘 Press the reset button on the instrument cluster (컄 page 22).

Service term exceeded

If you have exceeded the suggested service term, you will see the following message in the multifunction display:

SERVICE A EXCEEDED BY XX DAYS SERVICE A EXCEEDED BY XX MI (KM)

An acoustic signal will also sound.

265

i If the service indicator was inadvertently reset, have a Mercedes-Benz Center correct it. Only reset if the proper service has been performed. Resetting the system without performing proper service as called for by the FSS will cause the FSS to incorrectly determine the next service interval which will result in engine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Operation Maintenance

The Mercedes-Benz Center will reset the service indicator following a completed service.

Calling up the service indicator

왘 Switch on ignition.

The standard display of the control system appears (컄 page 113).

왘 Press button k or j on the mul- tifunction steering wheel until the FSS indicator appears in the multifunction display.

If the battery is disconnected, the days of disconnection will not be included in the count shown by the service indica- tor. To arrive at the true service deadline, you will need to subtract these days from the days shown in the service indicator. Do not confuse the service indicator with the engine oil level indicator :.

Resetting the service indicator

In the event that the service on your vehicle is not carried out by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, you can reset the service indicator yourself. 왘 Switch on ignition.

The standard display of the control system appears (컄 page 113).

왘 Press button k or j on the mul- tifunction steering wheel until the FSS indicator appears in the multifunction display.

왘 Press reset button for about three

seconds. This message appears in the multifunc- tion display: SERVICE INTERVAL? RESET WITH R BUTTON FOR 3 SEC.

왘 To confirm, press reset button until you

hear a signal. The service indicator now displays the reset interval.

266

왔 Vehicle care Cleaning and care of the vehicle

Warning!

Many cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are poisonous, others are flammable. Always follow the instructions on the partic- ular container. Always open your vehicle’s doors or windows when cleaning the inside.

Never use fluids or solvents that are not designed for cleaning your vehicle.

While in operation, even while parked, your vehicle is subjected to varying external influences which, if gone unchecked, can attack the paintwork as well as the under- body and cause lasting damage.

Such damage is caused not only by extreme and varying climatic conditions, but also by: 앫 Air pollution 앫 Road salt 앫 Tar 앫 Gravel and stone chipping To avoid paint damage, you should immediately remove: 앫 Grease and oil 앫 Fuel 앫 Coolant 앫 Brake fluid 앫 Bird droppings 앫 Insects 앫 Tree resins, etc. Frequent washing reduces and/or elimi- nates the aggressiveness and potency of the above adverse influences.

Operation Vehicle care

More frequent washings are necessary to deal with unfavorable conditions: 앫 near the ocean 앫 in industrial areas (smoke, exhaust

emissions)

앫 during winter operation You should check your vehicle from time to time for stone chipping or other damage. Any damage should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent corrosion. In doing so, do not neglect the underbody of the vehicle. A prerequisite for a thor- ough check is a washing of the underbody followed by a thorough inspection. Dam- aged areas need to be re-undercoated. Your vehicle has been treated at the facto- ry with a wax-base rustproofing in the body cavities which will last for the lifetime of the vehicle. Post-production treatment is neither necessary nor recommended by Mercedes-Benz because of the possibility of incompatibility between materials used in the production process and others applied later.

267

Operation Vehicle care

We have selected car-care products and compiled recommendations which are specially matched to our vehicles and which always reflect the latest technology. You can obtain Mercedes-Benz approved car-care products at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosion or damage due to negligent or incorrect care cannot always be removed or repaired with the car-care products recommended here. In such cases it is best to seek aid at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. The following topics deal with the cleaning and care of your vehicle and give important “how-to” information as well as references to Mercedes-Benz approved car-care products. Additional information can be found in the booklet “Vehicle Care Guide”.

268

Power washer When using a power washer for cleaning the vehicle, always observe the manu- facturer’s operating instructions.

Tar stains Quickly remove tar stains before they dry and become more difficult to remove. A tar remover is recommended.

Never use a round nozzle to power-wash tires. The intense jet of water can result in damage to the tire. Always replace a damaged tire. Always keep the jet of water moving across the surface. Do not aim directly at electrical parts, electrical connec- tors, seals, or other rubber parts.

Paintwork, painted body components Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Care should be applied when water drops on the paint surface do not “bead up”, normally every three to five months, depending on climate and washing detergent used. Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Cleaner should be applied if the paint surface shows signs of embedded dirt (i.e. loss of gloss). Do not apply any of these products or wax if your vehicle is parked in the sun or if the hood is still hot. Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up Stick for quick and provisional repairs of minor paint damage (i.e. chips from stones, vehicle doors, etc.).

Engine cleaning Prior to cleaning the engine compartment, make sure to protect electrical compo- nents and connectors from the intrusion of water and cleaning agents. Corrosion protection, such as MB Anticor- rosion Wax, should be applied to the engine compartment after every engine cleaning. Before applying, all control linkage bushings and joints should be lubricated. The poly-V-belt and all pulleys should be protected from any wax.

Vehicle washing Do not use hot water or wash your vehicle in direct sunlight. Only use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo. Thoroughly spray the vehicle with a dif- fused jet of water. Direct only a very weak spray towards the ventilation intake. Use plenty of water and rinse the sponge and chamois frequently. Rinse with clear water and thoroughly dry with a chamois. Do not allow cleaning agents to dry on the finish. Due to the width of the vehicle, fold in outside mirrors prior to running the vehicle through an automatic car wash to prevent damage to the mirrors. In the winter, thoroughly remove all traces of road salt as soon as possible. When washing the underbody, do not forget to clean the inner sides of the wheels.

Operation Vehicle care

Ornamental moldings For regular cleaning and care of very dirty chrome-plated parts, use a chrome cleaner.

Headlamps, tail lamps, side markers, turn signal lenses Use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo, with plenty of water. To prevent scratches, never apply strong force and only use a soft, non-scratchy cloth when cleaning the lenses. Do not attempt to wipe dirty lenses with a dry cloth or sponge.

269

Operation Vehicle care

Wiper blades 왘 Fold wiper arms forward.

Window cleaning 왘 Fold wiper arms forward.

Warning!

Warning!

For safety reasons, switch off wipers and remove SmartKey from starter switch before cleaning the wiper blades, otherwise the wiper motor might suddenly turn on and cause injury.

For safety reasons, switch off wipers and remove SmartKey from starter switch before cleaning the windshield, otherwise the wiper motor might suddenly turn on and cause injury.

왘 Clean the wiper blade inserts with a

왘 Use a window cleaning solution on all

clean cloth and detergent solution.

Fold the windshield wiper arms back onto the windshield before turning the SmartKey in the starter switch. Hold on to the wiper when folding the wiper arm back. If released, the force of the impact from the tensioning spring could crack the windshield.

glass surfaces. An automotive glass cleaner is recommended.

Fold the windshield wiper arms back onto the windshield before turning the SmartKey in the starter switch. Hold on to the wiper when folding the wiper arm back. If released, the force of the impact from the tensioning spring could crack the windshield.

Light alloy wheels Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care should be used for regular cleaning of the light alloy wheels. If possible, clean wheels once a week with Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care, using a soft bristle brush and a strong spray of water. Follow the instructions on container.

Only use acid-free cleaning materials. Acid may cause corrosion or damage the clear coat.

Instrument cluster Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe with a cloth moist- ened in lukewarm solution. Do not use scouring agents.

270

Operation Vehicle care

Steering wheel and gear selector lever Wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care.

Headliner and rear window shelf Clean with soft bristle brush, or use a dry-shampoo cleaner in case of excessive dirt.

Cup holder Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe with a cloth moist- ened in lukewarm solution. Do not use scouring agents.

Seat belts The webbing must not be treated with chemical cleaning agents. Only use clear, lukewarm water and soap. Do not dry the webbing at temperatures above 176°F (80°C) or in direct sunlight.

Hard plastic trim items Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto soft lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure.

Warning!

Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be able to provide adequate protection.

Upholstery Using aftermarket seat covers or wearing clothing that have the tendency to give off coloring (e.g. when wet, etc.) may cause the upholstery to become permanently dis- colored. By lining the seats with a proper intermediate cover, contact-discoloration will be prevented.

Leather upholstery Wipe leather upholstery with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care. Exercise particular care when cleaning perforated leather as its underside should not become wet.

271

Operation Vehicle care

Cloth upholstery Clean with soft bristle brush, or use a dry-shampoo cleaner in case of excessive dirt.

MB Tex upholstery Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto soft lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure.

Plastic and rubber parts Do not use oil or wax on these parts.

Wood trims Dampen cloth using water and use damp cloth to clean wood trims in your vehicle. Do not use solvents like tar remover or wheel cleaner nor polishes or waxes as these may be abrasive.

272

 Practical hints What to do if …

Where will I find ...?

Unlocking/locking in an emergency

Opening/closing in an emergency

Replacing bulbs

Replacing wiper blades

Flat tire

Battery

Jump starting

Towing the vehicle

Fuses

273

Practical hints What to do if … 왔 What to do if … Lamps in instrument cluster

General information: If a bulb in the instrument cluster fails to come on during the bulb self-check when

turning the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 2, have it checked and replaced if necessary.

Problem - The yellow ABS malfunction

indicator lamp comes on while driving.

Possible cause The ABS has detected a malfunction and has switched off. The BAS and the ESP are also switched off (see messages in display). The brake system is still functioning normally but without the ABS available.

Suggested solution 왘 Continue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability.

왘 Have the system checked at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident. 왘 Read and observe messages in the

display (컄 page 280).

The charging voltage has fallen below ten volts. The ABS has switched off.

왘 When the voltage is above this value

again, the ABS is operational again.

왘 If necessary, have the generator (alternator) and battery checked.

274

Practical hints What to do if …

Problem 3 (Canada only) ; (USA only)

The red brake warning lamp comes on while driving and you hear a warning sound. The red brake warning lamp comes on while driving.

Possible cause You are driving with the parking brake set.

Suggested solution 왘 Release the parking brake

(컄 page 45).

There is insufficient brake fluid in the reservoir.

왘 Risk of accident! Carefully stop the

vehicle and notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not add brake fluid! This will not solve the problem.

If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness and leaks.

Warning!

Driving with the brake warning lamp illumi- nated can result in an accident. Have your brake system checked immediately if the brake warning lamp stays on. Don’t add brake fluid before checking the brake system. Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the brake fluid catching fire. You can be seriously burned.

275

Practical hints What to do if …

Problem ? The yellow “CHECK ENGINE”

malfunction indicator lamp comes on while driving.

276

Possible cause There is a malfunction in: 앫 The fuel management system 앫 The ignition system 앫 The emission control system 앫 Systems which affect emissions Such malfunctions may result in excessive emissions values and may switch the engine to its limp-home (emergency operation) mode.

The fuel cap is not closed tight. Your gas tank is empty.

Suggested solution 왘 Have the vehicle checked as soon as

possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. An on-board diagnostic connector is used by the service station to link the vehicle to the shop diagnostics sys- tem. It allows the accurate identifica- tion of system malfunctions through the readout of diagnostic trouble codes. It is located in the front left area of the footwell next to the parking brake pedal. 왘 Check the fuel cap. 왘 After refuelling start the engine three

or four times in succession.

The limp-home mode is canceled. You do not need to have your vehicle checked.

Problem v The yellow ESP warning lamp

comes on while driving.

The yellow ESP warning lamp flashes while driving.

Possible cause The ESP is deactivated. Risk of accident! Adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing road, weather and traffic conditions. The ESP or traction control has come into operation because of detected traction loss in at least one tire.

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution 왘 Switch the ESP back on (컄 page 74). If the ESP cannot be switched back on, have the system checked at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

왘 When driving off, apply as little

throttle as possible.

왘 While driving, ease up on the

accelerator.

왘 Adapt your speed and driving to the

prevailing road and weather conditions.

왘 Do not deactivate the ESP.

Exceptions: (컄 page 74).

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident.

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Practical hints What to do if …

Problem The yellow fuel tank reserve warning lamp comes on while driving. < The red seat belt non-usage warning

lamp illuminates for a brief period after starting the engine.

1 The red SRS indicator lamp comes on

while driving.

Possible cause The fuel level has gone below the reserve mark. The warning lamp reminds you to fasten seat belts.

Suggested solution 왘 Refuel at the next gas station

(컄 page 249).

왘 Fasten your seat belt.

There is a malfunction in the restraint sys- tems. The airbags or emergency tensioning device (ETDs) could deploy unexpectedly or fail to activate in an accident.

왘 Drive with added caution to the

nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

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 autho- rized 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 result in an accident and/or injury to you or to others.

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Lamp in center console

Problem PASS. AIRBAG OFF

The indicator lamp comes on. A BabySmartTM1 child seat is installed

Possible cause

Suggested solution

Practical hints What to do if …

on the front passenger seat. There- fore the passenger front airbag is switched off. The system is malfunctioning when there is no BabySmartTM child seat installed on the front passenger seat. The system is malfunctioning.

The indicator lamp does not come on with a BabySmartTM child seat properly installed on the front passenger seat.

1 BabySmartTM is a trademark of Siemens Automotive Corp.

왘 Have the system checked as soon

as possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

왘 Make sure there is nothing

between seat cushion and child seat and check installation of the child seat.

왘 If the lamp remains out, have the

system checked as soon as possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not use the BabySmartTM restraint to transport children on the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

279

Practical hints What to do if …

Messages in the display

The control system shows warning and malfunction messages in the multifunction display. Certain warning and malfunction messag- es are accompanied by an audible signal. Address these messages accordingly and follow the additional instructions given in this Operator’s Manual. Selecting the malfunction memory menu in the control system (컄 page 122) displays both cleared and uncleared messages. High-priority messages appear in the multifunction display in red color. Certain messages of high priority cannot be cleared from the multifunction display using the reset button. Other messages of high priority and messages of less immediate priority can be cleared from the multifunction display using the reset button (컄 page 22) and are then stored in the malfunction message memory (컄 page 122).

280

Warning!

All categories of messages contain important information which should be taken note of and, where a malfunction is indicated, addressed as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Failure to repair condition noted may cause damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty, or result in property damage or personal injury.

Turning the SmartKey in starter switch to position 2, causes all lamps as well as the multifunction display to come on. Ensure that they are all in working order before starting your journey.

On the pages that follow, you will find a compilation of the most important warning and malfunction messages that may appear in the display. High priority messages appear on a red background.

Warning!

No messages will be displayed if either the instrument cluster or the multifunction display is inoperative.

Contact your nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Practical hints What to do if …

Possible cause The charging voltage has fallen below ten volts. The BAS has switched off.

Possible solution 왘 When the voltage is above this value

again, the BAS is operational again.

Text messages

Display message BAS

BRAKE ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE!

BRAKE ASSIST VISIT WORKSHOP!

The BAS has detected a malfunction and switched off. The brake system is still functioning normally but without the BAS available.

DISPLAY MALFUNCTION VISIT WORKSHOP!

The BAS or the BAS display is malfunctioning.

왘 If necessary, have the generator and

battery checked.

왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Have the system checked at an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident. 왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Have the system checked at an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident.

281

Practical hints What to do if …

Display message ESP

ESP NOT AVAILABLE!

Possible cause The ESP was deactivated because of a malfunction or interrupted power supply. The ABS might not be operational.

The self-diagnosis has not been completed.

When synchronizing the ESP, make sure you can turn the steering wheel in both directions as far as it will go without the wheels hitting any objects, e.g. a road curb.

282

Possible solution 왘 Synchronize the ESP. With vehicle

stationary and the engine running, turn the steering wheel completely to the left and then to the right to synchro- nize the ESP.

If the ESP message does not go out: 왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident. The display will clear after driving a short distance at more than 12 mph (20 km/h).

Display message ESP

ESP NOT AVAILABLE!

Possible cause The charging voltage has fallen below ten volts. The ESP has switched off.

Possible solution 왘 When the voltage is above this value

again, the ESP is operational again.

Practical hints What to do if …

ESP VISIT WORKSHOP!

The ESP is deactivated because of a malfunction.

DISPLAY MALFUNCTION VISIT WORKSHOP!

The ESP or the ESP display is malfunctioning.

왘 If necessary, have the generator and

battery checked.

왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident. 왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident.

283

Practical hints What to do if …

Symbol messages

Display symbol Display message

ABS SYSTEM VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The ABS has detected a malfunction and has switched off. The ESP and the BAS are also deactivated. The brake system is still functioning normally but without the ABS available.

DISPLAY MALFUNCTION VISIT WORKSHOP!

The ABS or the ABS display is malfunctioning.

Possible solution 왘 Continue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability.

왘 Have the system checked at an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident. 왘 Continue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability.

왘 Have the system checked at an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident.

284

Display symbol

Display message BATTERY/ALTERNATOR VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The battery was charged with a battery charger or jump started. The battery is no longer charging. Possible causes: 앫 alternator malfunctioning 앫 broken poly-V-belt

UNDERVOLTAGE ENGINE ON!

UNDERVOLTAGE SWITCH CONSUMERS OFF!

The battery has insufficient voltage and can no longer supply the convenience functions such as seat heater*. The battery is malfunctioning.

Practical hints What to do if …

Possible solution 왘 Have the battery checked at a service

station.

왘 Stop immediately and check the

poly-V-belt. If it is broken: 왘 Do not continue to drive. Otherwise

the engine will overheat due to an inoperative water pump which may result in damage to the engine. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If it is intact: 왘 Drive immediately to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

왘 Start the engine (컄 page 43).

왘 Have the battery checked at a service

station.

285

Possible cause You are driving with the parking brake set.

Possible solution 왘 Release the parking brake

(컄 page 45).

The brake pads have reached their wear limit. There is insufficient brake fluid in the reservoir.

If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness and leaks.

왘 Have the brake pads replaced as soon

as possible.

왘 Risk of accident! Stop the vehicle and

notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not add brake fluid! This will not solve the problem.

Brake pad thickness must be visually checked by a qualified technician at the intervals specified in the Service booklet.

Practical hints What to do if …

Display symbol ! (Canada only) ; (USA only)

Display message PARK. BRAKE RELEASE BRAKE!

BRAKE WEAR VISIT WORKSHOP! BRAKE FLUID VISIT WORKSHOP!

Warning!

Driving with this message displayed can result in an accident. Have your brake system checked immediately. Do not add brake fluid before checking the brake system. Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the brake fluid catching fire. You can be seriously burned.

286

Display symbol Display message

COOLANT CHECK LEVEL!

Possible cause The coolant level is too low.

Warning!

Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which may burn if it comes into contact with hot engine parts. You can be seriously burned.

Do not ignore the low engine coolant level warning. Extended driving with the message and symbol displayed may cause serious engine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Do not drive without sufficient amount of coolant in the cooling system. The engine will overheat causing major engine damage.

Practical hints What to do if …

Possible solution 왘 Add coolant (컄 page 257). 왘 If you have to add coolant frequently, have the cooling system checked by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

287

Practical hints What to do if …

Display symbol Display message Ï

COOLANT STOP, ENGINE OFF!

Possible cause The coolant is too hot.

During severe operating conditions and stop-and-go city traffic, the coolant tem- perature may rise close to 248°F (120°C).

Warning!

Driving when your engine is badly over- heated can cause some fluids which may have leaked into the engine compartment to catch fire. You could be seriously burned.

Steam from an overheated engine can cause serious burns and can occur just by opening the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it.

Turn off the engine, get out of the vehicle and do not stand near the vehicle until the engine has cooled down.

288

Possible solution 왘 Stop the vehicle and turn off the

engine.

왘 Only start the engine again after the

message disappears. You could otherwise damage the engine.

The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature above 248°F (120°C). Doing so may cause serious engine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Display symbol Display message Ï

COOLANT STOP, ENGINE OFF!

Possible cause The poly-V-belt could be broken.

COOLANT VISIT WORKSHOP!

The cooling fan for the coolant is malfunctioning.

Practical hints What to do if …

Possible solution 왘 Stop immediately and check the

poly-V-belt. If it is broken: 왘 Do not continue to drive. Otherwise

the engine will overheat due to an inoperative water pump which may result in damage to the engine. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If it is intact: 왘 Do not continue to drive the vehicle

with this message displayed. Doing so could result in serious engine damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. 왘 Observe the coolant temperature

display.

왘 Have the fan replaced as soon as

possible.

289

Practical hints What to do if …

Display symbol Display message

Ñ

±

CRUISE CONTROL DRIVE TO WORKSHOP! VISIT WORKSHOP! DISPLAY MALFUNCTION

VISIT WORKSHOP! DISPLAY MALFUNCTION

DOOR OPEN!

290

Possible cause Cruise control is malfunctioning.

Possible solution 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

The instrument cluster display is malfunctioning.

The displays for several systems have malfunctioned. Some systems them- selves may also have malfunctioned. Certain electronic systems are unable to relay information to the control system. The following systems may have failed: 앫 Coolant temperature display 앫 Tachometer 앫 Cruise control display You are attempting to drive with one or more doors open.

Center.

왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

왘 Have the electronic systems checked

by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

왘 Have the electronic systems checked

by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center (컄 page 276).

왘 Close the doors.

Practical hints What to do if …

Display symbol Display messages

USA only: ADD 1.0 Qt. ENGINE OIL WHEN NEXT REFUELING!

Possible cause The engine oil level is too low.

Suggested solution 왘 Add engine oil (컄 page 255) and check

the engine oil level (컄 page 254).

Canada only: ADD 1.0 LITER ENG. OIL WHEN NEXT REFUELING! ENGINE OIL LEVEL STOP, ENGINE OFF!

There is no oil in the engine. There is a danger of engine damage.

왘 Carefully bring the vehicle to a halt as

soon as possible.

ENGINE OIL LEVEL REDUCE OIL LEVEL

ENGINE OIL VISIT WORKSHOP!

You have added too much engine oil. There is a risk of damaging the engine or the catalytic converter. It may be that there is water in the engine oil.

왘 Turn off the engine. 왘 Add engine oil (컄 page 255) and check

the engine oil level (컄 page 254). 왘 Have oil siphoned or drained off.

Observe all legal requirements with respect to its disposal.

왘 Have the engine oil checked.

291

Practical hints What to do if …

Display symbol Display messages ENGINE OIL LEVEL VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The engine oil has dropped to a critical level.

Suggested solution 왘 Check the engine oil level

(컄 page 254) and add oil as required (컄 page 255).

왘 If you must add engine oil frequently, have the engine checked for possible leaks.

The measuring system is malfunctioning. 왘 Have the measuring system checked

ENGINE OIL SENSOR VISIT WORKSHOP!

by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

The engine oil level warnings should not be ignored. Extended driving with the symbol displayed could result in serious engine damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

When the message ADD 1.0 Qt. ENGINE OIL WHEN NEXT REFUELING! (Canada: 1.0 LITER) appears while the engine is running and at operating temperature, the engine oil level has dropped to approximately the minimum level.

When this occurs, the warning will first come on intermittently and then stay on if the oil level drops further. Visually check for oil leaks. If no obvious oil leaks are noted, drive to the nearest service station where the engine oil should be topped to the required level with an approved oil.

292

Display symbol Display message

RESERVE FUEL GO TO GAS STATION! CHECK GAS CAP! SEE OPERATOR’S MANUAL HOOD OPEN! REMOVE KEY!

REPLACE KEY! DRIVE TO WORKSHOP! 3RD BRAKE LIGHT CHECK LIGHT! AUTOM. LIGHT ON REMOVE KEY! BRAKE LIGHT DRIVE TO WORKSHOP! BRAKE LIGHT, L CHECK LIGHT! BRAKE LIGHT, R CHECK LIGHT! DISPLAY MALFUNCTION VISIT WORKSHOP!

Practical hints What to do if …

Possible cause The fuel level has dropped below the reserve mark. The fuel cap is not closed tightly.

Possible solution 왘 Refuel at the next gas station

(컄 page 249).

왘 Check the fuel cap (컄 page 249).

You are driving with the hood open. You have forgotten to remove the SmartKey. No additional code available for SmartKey. The high mounted brake lamp is malfunctioning. SmartKey in starter switch position 1 or 2. Brake lamp illumination is delayed or lamp is permanently on. The left brake lamp is malfunctioning.

왘 Close the hood (컄 page 252). 왘 Remove the SmartKey from the starter

switch.

왘 Change the SmartKey.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

왘 Remove SmartKey from the starter

switch.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

The right brake lamp is malfunctioning.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

The display for the lamps or the system is malfunctioning.

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center as soon as possible.

293

Practical hints What to do if …

Display symbol Display message FRONT FOGLIGHT, L CHECK LIGHT! FRONT FOGLIGHT, R CHECK LIGHT! REAR FOGLIGHT CHECK LIGHT! HIGH BEAM, L CHECK LIGHT! HIGH BEAM, R CHECK LIGHT! LIGHT SENSOR VISIT WORKSHOP!

Possible cause The left front fog lamp is malfunctioning. 왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

Possible solution

The right front fog lamp is malfunctioning. 왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

The rear fog lamp is malfunctioning.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

The left high beam lamp is malfunctioning. The right high beam lamp is malfunctioning. The lamp sensor is malfunctioning. The headlamps switch on automatically.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

왘 Replace the bulb as soon as possible.

왘 In the control system, set lamp