2011 Mercedes-benz C Class Owners Manual

F Adjusts the steering wheel

electrically

G Combination switch H Parking brake I On-board diagnostics

socket

J Opens the hood K Releases the parking brake L Light switch

98

98
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Instrument cluster

Instrument cluster Overview

Page

139
179

Function : Fuel gauge ; Coolant temperature gauge = Speedometer ? Segments A Multifunction display B Tachometer C Outside temperature3
D Outside temperature

Additional speedometer3

Page

Function

E Gear indicator and drive

program display3

F Clock G Brightness control knob for

the instrument cluster lighting: turn clockwise or anti-clockwise

166
167
167
168
167
167
167
179

3 Vehicles with automatic transmission.

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Instrument cluster

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Warning and indicator lamps

Function : High beam ; ESP® OFF = Low beam ? Turn signal A ESP® B Turn signal C SPORT handling mode in

AMG vehicles

D Tire pressure monitor E SRS

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207
107
108
207
108

208
212
209

Function

F ABS G Seat belt H Fog lamp I Rear fog lamp J Coolant K Brakes (USA only) L Brakes (Canada only) M Check Engine N Reserve fuel

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108
108
210
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28 Multifunction steering wheel

Multifunction steering wheel

Page 168

Function

A %

Page

169

169

Back or deactivates voice control

B =;

Selects a menu 9: Selects the submenu or scrolls through lists Confirms selections and hides display messages

Function

: Multifunction display ; COMAND/audio system;

see the separate operating instructions

= ~6

Makes/accepts or rejects/ ends a call WX Adjusts the volume or operates the RACETIMER in AMG vehicles Mute

176

172

? ?

Activates voice control; see the separate operating instructions

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Center console

Function

: Hazard warning lamps ; ATA indicator lamp = Indicator lamp 45

(USA only) Indicator lamp 45
(Canada only)

? COMAND/audio system;

see separate operating instructions A Seat heating B PARKTRONIC (Canada

only)

C Rear window roller sunblind

Center console

29

Function

Page

D Dynamic handling package

with sports mode

E Stowage compartment

Ashtray Cigarette lighter

F Gear lever

Selector lever

G Cup holder H Stowage compartment I Audio/COMAND controller J Selects the drive program

158
216
223
224
137
138
220
216

140

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67

41

46

97

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30 Overhead control panel

Overhead control panel

Function

: u To switch the rear interior lighting on/off

; | To switch the

automatic interior lighting control on/off

= p To switch the right- hand reading lamp on/off ? 3 To open/close the

tilt/sliding sunroof 3 To open/close the panorama roof with power tilt/sliding panel with roller sunblinds

A ï Button for MB info call

(mbrace system)

B G SOS button (mbrace

system)

Page

111

111

110

88

89

229

227

Function

C Rear-view mirror D Integrated electronic

compass

E Buttons for the garage door

opener

F Microphone for mbrace (emergency call system) telephone and Voice Control System4

G F Roadside Assistance

button (mbrace system) H p To switch the left-

hand reading lamp on/off I c To switch the front

interior lighting on/off

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235

232

229

110

111

4 The Voice Control System is only available in connection with COMAND. Observe the additional operating

instructions.

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Door control panel

Door control panel

31

Function

: Opens the door ; %& Locks/unlocks

the vehicle

= Adjusts the seat electrically

? r45=

Stores settings for the seat, exterior mirrors and steering wheel

A 7Zª\ Adjusts and folds the exterior mirrors in/out electrically

B W Opens/closes the

side windows

C n Activates/

deactivates the override feature for the side windows in the rear compartment

D o Unlocks the trunk lid

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100

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Vehicle equipment .............................. 34
Occupant safety .................................. 34
Children in the vehicle ........................ 55
Panic alarm .......................................... 61
Driving safety systems ....................... 61
Anti-theft systems .............................. 66

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34 Occupant safety

Vehicle equipment

i This manual describes all the standard and optional equipment of your vehicle which was available at the time of purchase. Country-specific differences are possible. Bear in mind that your vehicle may not feature all functions described here. This also refers to safety-related systems and functions.

Occupant safety Overview of occupant safety In this section you will learn the most important facts about the restraint system components of the vehicle. The restraint systems are: RSeat belts RChild restraint systems RLATCH-type (ISOFIX) child seat anchors Additional protection is provided by: RSRS (Supplemental Restraint System) RNECK-PRO head restraints RAir bag system components with:

- PASSENGER air bag OFF indicator lamp - USA only: front passenger seat with

Occupant Classification System (OCS) - Canada only: front passenger seat with BabySmartâ„¢ air bag deactivation system

The different air bag systems work independently of each other. The protective functions of the systems work in conjunction with each other. Not all air bags are deployed in an accident. G Warning Modifications to or work improperly conducted on restraint system components or their wiring, as well as tampering with interconnected electronic systems, can lead to the restraint systems no longer functioning as intended.

Air bags or Emergency Tensioning Devices (ETDs), for example, could deploy inadvertently or fail to deploy in accidents although the deceleration threshold for air bag deployment is exceeded. Therefore, never modify the restraint systems. Do not tamper with electronic components or their software.

i See "Children in the vehicle"

(Y page 55) for more information on infants and children traveling with you in the vehicle and restraints for infants and children.

SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) Introduction SRS reduces the risk of occupants coming into contact with the vehicle's interior in the event of an accident. It can also reduce the effect of the forces to which occupants are subjected during an accident. SRS consists of: Rthe 6 SRS warning lamp Rair bags Rair bag control unit (with crash sensors) Rbelt tensioners Rbelt force limiters

SRS warning lamps SRS functions are checked regularly when you switch on the ignition and when the engine is running. Therefore, malfunctions can be detected in good time. The 6 SRS warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up when the ignition is switched on. It goes out no later than a few seconds after the engine is started. The SRS components are in operational readiness when the 6 SRS warning lamp is not lit while the engine is running.

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G Warning The SRS self-check has detected a malfunction if the 6 SRS warning lamp: Rdoes not come on at all Rfails to go out approximately 4 seconds

after the engine was started

Rcomes on after the engine was started or

while driving

For your safety, Mercedes-Benz strongly recommends that you have the system checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Otherwise the SRS may not be activated when it is needed in an accident, which could result in serious or fatal injury. The SRS might also deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could also result in injury. In addition, improper work on the SRS creates a risk of rendering the SRS inoperative or causing unintended air bag deployment. Work on the SRS must therefore only be performed by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. If it is necessary to modify an air bag system to accommodate a person with disabilities, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for details. USA only: Call our Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) for details.

Safety guidelines for seat belts, Emergency Tensioning Devices (ETDs) and air bags G Warning RDamaged seat belts or seat belts that have been subjected to stress in an accident must be replaced. Their anchoring points must also be checked. Only use seat belts installed or supplied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

RAir bags and pyrotechnic Emergency

Tensioning Devices (ETDs) contain perchlorate material, which may require special handling and regard for the

Occupant safety

35

environment. Check your national disposal guidelines. California residents, see www.dtsc.ca.gov/HazardousWaste/ Perchlorate/index.cfm.

RAir bags and ETDs are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. An air bag or ETD that has deployed must be replaced.

RDo not pass seat belts over sharp edges.

They could tear.

RDo not make any modification that could

change the effectiveness of the seat belts. RDo not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be able to provide adequate protection. RNo modifications of any kind may be made

to any components or wiring of the SRS. RDo not change or remove any component

or part of the SRS.

RDo not install additional trim material, seat

covers, badges, etc. over the steering wheel hub, front-passenger front air bag cover, outer sides of the seat backrests, door trim panels, or door frame trims.

RDo not install additional electrical/

electronic equipment on or near SRS components and wiring.

RKeep area between air bags and occupants

free of objects (e.g. packages, purses, umbrellas, etc.).

RDo not hang items such as coat hangers from the coat hooks or handles over the door. These items may be thrown around in the vehicle and cause head and other injuries when the window curtain air bag is deployed.

RAir bag system components will be hot after an air bag has inflated. Do not touch them.

RNever place your feet on the instrument panel, dashboard, or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

RImproper repair work on the SRS creates a

risk of rendering the SRS inoperative or causing unintended air bag deployment. Work on the SRS must therefore only be

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36 Occupant safety

performed by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

RFor your protection and the protection of others, when scrapping the air bag unit or ETD, our safety instructions must be followed. These instructions are available from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

RGiven the considerable deployment speed, required inflation volume, and the material of the air bags, there is the possibility of abrasions or other, potentially more serious injuries resulting from air bag deployment.

If you sell your vehicle, Mercedes-Benz strongly recommends that you inform the subsequent owner that the vehicle is equipped with SRS. Also refer them to the applicable section in the Operator's Manual.

Air bags Important safety notes G Warning Air bags are designed to reduce the incidence of injuries and fatalities in certain situations: Rfrontal impacts (driver's and front-

passenger front air bags and driver's knee bag)

Rside impacts (side impact air bags, window

curtain air bags and pelvis air bags)

However, no system available today can completely eliminate injuries and fatalities. When the air bags are deployed, a small amount of powder is released. The powder generally does not constitute a health hazard and does not indicate that there is a fire in the vehicle. In order to prevent potential breathing difficulties, you should leave 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 air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

G Warning To reduce the risk of injuries during front air bag inflation, the driver and front-passenger must always be seated correctly and have their seat belts fastened accordingly. For maximum protection in the event of a collision, you must always be in the normal seat position with your back against the backrest. Fasten your seat belt and make sure that it is correctly positioned on your body. Since the air bag inflates with considerable speed and force, a proper seating position and correct positioning of the hands on the steering wheel will help to keep you at a safe distance from the air bag. Occupants who are not wearing their seat belt, are not seated properly or are too close to the air bag can be seriously injured or killed by an air bag as it inflates with great force instantaneously: RSit with the seat belt properly fastened in a position that is as upright as possible with your back against the seat backrest. RMove the driver's seat as far back as

possible, still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls. The distance from the center of the driver's chest to the center of the air bag cover on the steering wheel must be at least 10 inches(25 cm) or more. You should be able to accomplish this by adjusting the seat and steering wheel. If you have any difficulties, please contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

RDo not lean your head or chest close to the

steering wheel or dashboard.

ROnly hold the steering wheel by the rim.

Placing hands and arms inside the rim can increase the risk and potential severity of hand/arm injury when the driver front air bag inflates.

RAdjust the front-passenger seat as far back as possible from the dashboard when the seat is occupied.

ROccupants, especially children, should

never place their bodies or lean their heads in the area of the door where the side

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impact air bag inflates. This could result in serious injuries or death should the side impact air bag be deployed. Always sit as upright as possible, wear the seat belt properly and use an appropriately sized child restraint, infant restraint or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child.

RCanada only: children under 12 years may only sit in the front-passenger seat if they are seated in a child restraint system which is compatible with BabySmartâ„¢ and approved by Mercedes-Benz. If the child restraint system is installed properly, the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated in conjunction with the BabySmartâ„¢ system installed in the vehicle. Otherwise, the child could be struck by the air bag when it inflates in a crash. This could lead to serious or fatal injuries.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in severe injuries to you or other occupants. If you sell your vehicle, it is important that you make the buyer aware of this safety information. Be sure to give the buyer this Operator's Manual. G Warning Accident research shows that the safest place for children in an automobile is in a rear seat. A side impact air bag related injury may occur if occupants, especially children, are not properly seated or restrained when next to a side impact air bag 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)

(2)

Always sit as upright as possible and use the seat belts properly. Make sure that children 12 years old and under use an appropriately sized child restraint, infant restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. Always wear seat belts properly.

Occupant safety

37

The air bags are only deployed if the airbag control unit detects the need for deployment. Only in the event of such a situation will they provide their supplemental protection. The driver and passenger should always wear their seat belts. Otherwise, it is not possible for the air bags to provide their supplemental protection. In the event of other types of impacts and impacts below air bag deployment thresholds, air bags will not deploy. The driver and passengers will then be protected to the extent possible by a properly fastened seat belt. A properly fastened seat belt is also needed to provide the best possible protection in a rollover. Air bags offer supplemental protection but are not a substitute for seat belts. All vehicle occupants must fasten their seat belts regardless of whether your vehicle is equipped with airbags or not. It is important for your safety and that of your passenger to have deployed air bags replaced and to have any malfunctioning air bags repaired. This will help to make sure the air bags continue to perform their protective function for the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash.

Front air bags G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 36). The front air bags increase protection for the driver's and front-passenger's head and chest.

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38 Occupant safety

are inflated with the maximum amount of propellant gas available. In impact situations with deceleration or acceleration values lower than the vehicle deceleration or acceleration values preset in the system, the front air bags are not deployed. You will then be protected by the seat belt. ! Vehicles with BabySmartâ„¢ (Canada only): do not place any objects which weigh more than 20 lb (9 kg) on the front-passenger seat. This could cause the system to identify the seat as being occupied. In the event of an accident, the restraint systems on the front-passenger side are triggered. Have restraint systems that have been triggered replaced.

The front-passenger air bag will only deploy if: Rthe system, based on the OCS weight sensor readings, detects that the front- passenger seat is occupied (USA only).

Rthe 45 indicator lamp in the center

console is not lit, USA: (Y page 41), Canada: (Y page 46).

Rthe impact exceeds a preset deployment

threshold.

Driver's knee bag G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 36).

Driver's air bag : deploys in front of the steering wheel; front-passenger air bag ; deploys in front of and above the glove box. They are deployed: Rin the event of certain frontal impacts Rif the system determines that air bag

deployment can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt

Rif the seat belt is fastened Rindependently of other air bags in the

vehicle

If the vehicle overturns, the front air bags are generally not deployed unless the system detects high vehicle deceleration in a longitudinal direction. Your vehicle has adaptive, two-stage front air bags. In the event of a collision, the air bag control unit evaluates the vehicle deceleration. When the first deployment threshold is reached, the front air bag is filled with enough propellant gas to reduce the risk of injuries. The front air bag is fully deployed if a second deployment threshold is exceeded within a few milliseconds. Vehicles with OCS (USA only): front- passenger front air bag deployment is also influenced by the passenger's weight category as identified by the Occupant Classification System (OCS) (Y page 41). Vehicles with OCS (USA only): the lighter the passenger side occupant, the higher the vehicle deceleration rate required for second stage inflation of the front-passenger front air bag. In the second stage, the front air bags

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Driver's knee bag : increases protection for the driver against the risk of: Rknee injuries Rthigh injuries Rlower leg injuries Driver's knee bag : inflates beneath the steering column. If the system determines that deployment of driver's knee bag : can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt in the event of a frontal impact, the system will deploy it together with the driver's front air bag. Driver's knee bag : operates best in conjunction with a properly positioned and fastened seat belt.

Side impact air bags G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 36). G Warning! The pressure sensors for side impact air bag control are located in the doors. Do not modify any components of the doors or door trim panels including, for example, the addition of door speakers. Improper repair work on the doors or the modification or addition of components to the doors create a risk of rendering the side impact air bags inoperative or causing unintended air bag deployment. Work on the doors must therefore only be performed by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. G Warning Only use seat covers which have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle model. Using seat covers or other seat coverings can cause a malfunction of the side impact air bags and/or the pelvis air bags. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability.

Occupant safety

39

When deployed, the side impact air bags offer additional protection for the thorax of the vehicle occupants on the side of the vehicle on which the impact occurs. However, they do not protect the: Rhead Rneck Rarms

Side impact air bags : deploy next to the outer seat cushion. Side impact air bags : are deployed: Ron the side on which an impact occurs Rat the start of an accident with a high rate

of lateral vehicle deceleration or acceleration, e.g. in a side impact

Rindependently of seat belt use Rindependently of the front air bags Rindependently of the Emergency

Tensioning Devices

Side air bags : will not deploy in side impacts with deceleration rates which do not exceed the system's preset deployment thresholds for vehicle deceleration or acceleration. You will then be protected by the seat belt. Vehicles with OCS (USA only): if the OCS detects that the front-passenger seat is not occupied and the front-passenger seat belt is not fastened (the belt tongue is not engaged in the seat belt buckle), the side impact air bag on the front-passenger side will not deploy. The side impact air bag on the front- passenger side will deploy if the front- passenger seat belt is fastened, regardless of

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40 Occupant safety

whether the front-passenger seat is occupied or not. ! Vehicles with BabySmartâ„¢ (Canada only): do not place any objects which weigh more than 20 lb (9 kg) on the front-passenger seat. This could cause the system to identify the seat as being occupied. In the event of an accident, the restraint systems on the front-passenger side are triggered. Have restraint systems that have been triggered replaced.

Pelvis air bags G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 36). Pelvis air bags are not available on AMG vehicles. G Warning Only use seat covers which have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle model. Using seat covers or other seat coverings can cause a malfunction of the side impact air bags and/or the pelvis air bags. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability.

Pelvis air bag deployment enhances the level of protection of the vehicle occupants on the side of the vehicle on which the impact occurs.

Pelvis air bags : deploy next to and below the outer seat cushions. They are deployed:

Ron the side on which an impact occurs Rat the start of an accident with a high rate

of lateral vehicle deceleration or acceleration, e.g. in a side impact

Rindependently of seat belt use Rindependently of the front air bags Rindependently of the Emergency

Tensioning Devices

Pelvis air bags : will not deploy in side impacts with deceleration rates which do not exceed the system’s preset deployment thresholds for vehicle deceleration or acceleration. You will then be protected by the seat belt. Vehicles with OCS (USA only): if the OCS detects that the front-passenger seat is not occupied and the front-passenger seat belt is not fastened (the belt tongue is not engaged in the seat belt buckle), the pelvis air bag on the front-passenger side will not deploy. The pelvis air bag on the front-passenger side will deploy if the front-passenger seat belt is fastened, regardless of whether the front- passenger seat is occupied or not.

Window curtain air bags G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 36). The window curtain air bags enhance the level of protection for the head (but not chest or arms) of the vehicle occupants on the side of the vehicle on which the impact occurs. The window curtain air bags are integrated into the side of the roof frame and deploy in the area extending from the front door (A- pillar) to the rear door (C-pillar).

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The system does not deactivate: Rthe side impact air bag Rthe pelvis air bag Rthe window curtain air bag Rthe Emergency Tensioning Devices To be classified correctly, the front passenger must sit: Rwith the seat belt properly fastened Rin a position that is as upright as possible

with the back against the seat backrest

Rwith their feet on the floor If the front-passenger's weight is transferred to another object in the vehicle (e.g. by leaning on armrests), OCS may not be able to approximate the occupant's weight category. If the front passenger seat, the seat cover, or the seat cushion are damaged, have the necessary repair work carried out at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. For reasons of safety, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use seat accessories that have been approved by Mercedes-Benz. Both the driver and the front passenger should observe the 45 indicator lamp to determine whether or not the front passenger is positioned correctly. G Warning If the 45 indicator lamp illuminates when an adult or someone larger than a small individual is in the front passenger seat, have the front passenger reposition himself or herself in the seat until the 45
indicator lamp goes out. In the event of a collision, the air bag control unit will not allow front passenger front air bag deployment when the OCS has classified the front passenger seat occupant as weighing as much as or less than a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint or if the front passenger seat is classified as being empty. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as being up to or less than the weight of a typical

Window curtain air bags : are deployed: Ron the side on which an impact occurs Rat the start of an accident with a high rate

of lateral vehicle deceleration or acceleration, e.g. in a side impact

Rregardless of whether the front-passenger

seat is occupied

Rindependently of seat belt use Rindependently of the front air bags Window curtain air bags : will not deploy in impacts with deceleration rates which do not exceed the system’s preset deployment thresholds for vehicle deceleration or acceleration. You will then be protected by the seat belt.

Occupant classification system (OCS) How the Occupant Classification System works The Occupant Classification System (OCS) is standard equipment in the USA. OCS categorizes the occupant on the front- passenger seat by means of a weight sensor. The front-passenger front air bag is automatically deactivated for certain weight categories. The respective status can be recognized by the 45 indicator lamp. With the 45 indicator lamp illuminated, the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated.

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42 Occupant safety

12-month-old child in a standard child restraint, the 45 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and remain illuminated. This indicates that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat is classified as being empty, the 45 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and remain illuminated. This indicates that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as being heavier than the weight of a typical 12- month-old child seated in a standard child restraint or as being a small individual (such as a young teenager or a small adult), the 45 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately 6 seconds when the engine is started. Depending on occupant weight sensor readings from the seat, it will then remain illuminated or go out. With the 45 indicator lamp illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. With the 45 indicator lamp out, the front passenger front air bag is activated. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as an adult or someone larger than a small individual, the 45 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately six seconds when the engine is started and then go out. This indicates that the front passenger front air bag is activated. If the 45 indicator lamp is illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is deactivated and will not be deployed. If the 45 indicator lamp is not illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is activated and will be deployed Rin the event of certain frontal impacts Rif the impact exceeds a predetermined

triggering threshold

Rindependent of the side impact air bag or

pelvis air bag

If the front passenger front air bag is deployed, the rate of inflation will be influenced by Rthe rate of vehicle deceleration as assessed

by the air bag control unit

Rthe front passenger's weight category as

identified by the OCS

For further information, see the section regarding air bag display messages (Y page 187). G Warning According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained on the rear seats than on the front-passenger seat. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seats whenever possible. Regardless of seating position, children 12
years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriate infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. The infant or child restraint must be properly secured with the vehicle's seat belt, the seat belt and Top Tether strap, or lower anchors and Top Tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer's instructions. Occupants, especially children, should always sit as upright as possible, wear the seat belt properly and use an appropriately sized infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. Children can be killed or seriously injured by an inflating air bag. Note the following important information when circumstances require you to place a child in the front- passenger seat: RYour vehicle is equipped with air bag technology designed to deactivate the front-passenger front air bag in your vehicle when the system senses the weight of a typical 12-month-old child or less along

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with the weight of a standard appropriate child restraint on the front-passenger seat. RA child in a rear-facing child restraint on the

front-passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the front-passenger front air bag inflates in a collision which could occur under some circumstances, even with the air bag technology installed in your vehicle. The only means to eliminate this risk completely is never to place a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the front- passenger seat. We therefore strongly recommend that you always place a child in a rear-facing child restraint on the rear seat.

RIf you install a rear-facing child restraint on

the front-passenger seat, make sure the 45 indicator lamp is illuminated, indicating that the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated. Should the 45
indicator lamp not illuminate or go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. Periodically check the 45 indicator lamp while driving to make sure that the 45 indicator lamp is illuminated. If the 45
indicator lamp goes out or remains out, do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat until the system has been repaired. A child in a rear-facing child restraint on the front-passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the front-passenger front air bag inflates.

RIf you place a child in a forward-facing child

restraint on the front-passenger seat: - move the seat as far back as possible - use the proper child restraint

recommended for the age, size and weight of the child

- secure child restraint with the vehicle's

seat belt according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions

RFor children larger than the typical 12-

month-old child, the front-passenger front air bag may or may not be activated.

Occupant safety

43

Deployment of the driver front air bag does not mean that the front-passenger front air bag should also have deployed. OCS may have determined: Rthat the seat was unoccupied or occupied by a weight of up to or less than that of a typical 12-month-old child seated in a standard child restraint

Rthat the seat was occupied by a small

individual (e.g. a young teenager or a small adult) or a child who weighs more than a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint system

These are examples of when OCS deactivates the front-passenger front air bag. The air bag is deactivated despite the impact fulfilling the criteria for deploying the driver's front air bag.

If the SmartKey has been removed from the ignition lock or is in position 0, indicator lamp 45: does not light up. G Warning If the red 6 SRS warning lamp in the instrument cluster and the 45
indicator lamp light up simultaneously, the OCS is malfunctioning. The front passenger front air bag will be deactivated in this case. Have the system checked by qualified technicians as soon as possible. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Only have the seat repaired or replaced at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

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G Warning Never place anything between seat cushion and child seat (e.g. a pillow), since it reduces the effectiveness of the OCS. The underside and rear side child restraint system must be placed entirely on the seat cushion and the backrest of the front-passenger seat backrest. If necessary, adjust the tilt of the passenger seat backrest. An incorrectly mounted child seat could cause injuries to the child in case of an accident, instead of increasing protection for the child. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation of child restraint systems.

In order to ensure proper operation of the air bag system and OCS: RSit with the seat belt properly fastened in a position that is as upright as possible with your back against the seat backrest. RWhen seated, a passenger should not

position him/herself in such a way as to cause the passenger's weight to be lifted from the seat cushion as this may result in the OCS being unable to correctly approximate the passenger's weight category.

RRead and observe all warnings in this

chapter.

System self-test The 45 indicator lamp illuminates when you: Rturn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the

ignition lock

Ron vehicles with KEYLESS-GO, press the

Start/Stop button once or twice

If an adult is seated properly on the passenger seat and the OCS classifies the occupant as an adult, the 45 indicator lamp illuminates and goes out again after approximately 6 seconds. If the seat is not occupied and the OCS classifies the front passenger seat as being unoccupied, the 45 indicator lamp will illuminate and not go out. G Warning! If the 4 5 indicator lamp does not illuminate, the system is not functioning. You must contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center before seating any child on the front passenger seat.

For more information, see "Problems with the Occupant Classification System" (Y page 45).

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45

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions OCS is malfunctioning. X Have OCS checked as soon as possible at an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display (Y page 187).

Problem The 45
indicator lamp illuminates and remains illuminated. The person sitting on the front-passenger seat: Rweighs as much as a

typical adult

Rweighs more than a

child

G Warning If the 45 indicator lamp illuminates and remains illuminated when the weight of a typical adult or someone larger than a small individual has been detected on the passenger seat, do not allow any occupant to use the passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Problem The 45
indicator lamp does not illuminate and/or does not remain illuminated. The front-passenger seat is: Runoccupied Roccupied with the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint or less

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions OCS is malfunctioning. X Make sure there is nothing between the seat cushion and the

child seat.

X Check the installation of the child restraint system. X Make sure there are no objects applying additional weight onto

the seat.

X If the 45 indicator lamp remains out, have OCS checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat until OCS has been repaired.

X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display (Y page 187).

G Warning If the 45 indicator lamp does not illuminate or remains out with the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint or less, or is unoccupied, on the front-passenger seat, do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

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passenger front air bag is deactivated in conjunction with the BabySmartâ„¢ system. Otherwise, the child could be struck by the air bag when it inflates in a crash. This could lead to serious or fatal injury.

RA child in a rear-facing child restraint on the

front-passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the front-passenger front air bag inflates in a collision which could occur under some circumstances, even with the air bag technology installed in your vehicle. The only means to eliminate this risk completely is never to place a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the front- passenger seat. We therefore strongly recommend that you always place a child in a rear-facing child restraint on the rear seat.

RIf it is necessary to install a BabySmartâ„¢-

compatible rear-facing child restraint system on the front-passenger seat, make sure the 45 indicator lamp is illuminated. This indicates that the front- passenger front air bag is deactivated. If the 45 indicator lamp does not light up or goes out when the child restraint system is installed, check the anchorages of the restraint system. Periodically check the 45 indicator lamp while driving to make sure the 45 is illuminated. If the 45 indicator lamp goes out or remains out, do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat until the system has been repaired. A child in a rear-facing child restraint on the front-passenger seat will be seriously

BabySmartâ„¢ air bag deactivation system How the air bag deactivation system functions The BabySmartâ„¢ system is standard equipment in Canada. G Warning According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained on the rear seats than on the front-passenger seat. For this reason, Mercedes-Benz strongly advises that you always secure children in the rear seats. Regardless of seating position, children 12 years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriately sized child restraint system or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. Secure the infant restraint system or child restraint system, using: Rthe vehicle's seat belt Rthe seat belt and a Top Tether belt Rthe LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child seat mount

and a Top Tether belt

The child restraint system must be installed and secured correctly, observing the manufacturer's installation instructions. Occupants, especially children, should always sit as upright as possible, wear the seat belt properly and use an appropriately sized infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. Children can be killed or seriously injured by an inflating air bag. Observe the following important information if it is necessary to carry a child on the front-passenger seat: RChildren under 12 years may only sit in the front-passenger seat if they are seated in a child restraint system which is compatible with BabySmartâ„¢ and approved by Mercedes-Benz. If the child restraint system is installed properly, the front-

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injured or even killed if the front-passenger front air bag inflates.

RIf you have to place a child in a forward- facing child restraint system on the front- passenger seat, you must: - move the seat as far back as possible - use the proper child restraint

recommended for the age, size and weight of the child

- secure child restraint with the vehicle's

seat belt according to the child seat manufacturer's instructions

G Warning The BabySmartâ„¢ air bag disabling system ONLY works with specially adapted child restraint systems. It does not work with child restraint systems that are not compatible with BabySmartâ„¢. Never place anything between the seat cushion and the child restraint system (e.g. a cushion), as this reduces the effectiveness of the BabySmartâ„¢ air bag deactivation system. The underside of the child restraint system must lie against the seat cushion of the front- passenger seat. In the event of an accident, an incorrectly installed child restraint system could injure the child instead of offering protection. Observe the manufacturer's instructions when installing special child restraint systems. G Warning When using a BabySmartâ„¢-compatible child restraint system on the front-passenger seat, the front-passenger front air bag is only disabled if the 45 indicator lamp is illuminated. Check the 45 indicator lamp repeatedly, every time you use a BabySmartâ„¢-compatible child restraint system on the front-passenger seat. Should the 45 indicator lamp not illuminate or go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. If the 45

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47

indicator lamp remains out, do not use the BabySmartâ„¢ child restraint system to carry a child on the front-passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Special child restraint systems which are compatible with BabySmartâ„¢ are necessary for deactivating the front-passenger front air bag. When the special child restraint system which is compatible with BabySmartâ„¢ is installed correctly and is recognized by the sensor system in the front-passenger seat, the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated. In this case, 45 indicator lamp : illuminates. If you have any questions regarding the special child restraint systems which are compatible with BabySmartâ„¢, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. If the key has been removed from the ignition lock or is in position 0, indicator lamp 45: does not light up. The system does not deactivate: Rthe side impact air bag Rthe pelvis air bag Rthe window curtain air bag Rthe Emergency Tensioning Devices

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System self-test The 45 indicator lamp illuminates when you: Rturn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the

ignition lock

Ron vehicles with KEYLESS-GO, press the

Start-Stop button once or twice

The 45 indicator lamp goes out again after approximately six seconds. If the 45 indicator lamp does not illuminate or is lit continuously, the system is malfunctioning. Before transporting a child on the front-passenger seat, have the BabySmartâ„¢ system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. For more information, see "Problems with the air bag deactivation system" section (Y page 49) G Warning Do not place powered-on laptops, mobile phones, electronic tags such as those used in ski passes or similar electronic devices on the front passenger seat. Signals from such devices may interfere with the BabySmartâ„¢ air bag deactivation system. Such signal interference may cause the 45
indicator lamp not to come on during self-test. The 6 SRS indicator lamp and/or the 45 indicator lamp could be continuously lit, indicating that the system is not functioning. The front-passenger front air bag could deploy inadvertently or fail to deploy in an accident.

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Problems with the air bag deactivation system

Problem The 45
indicator lamp illuminates and remains illuminated.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions A special BabySmartâ„¢ compatible child restraint system is installed on the front-passenger seat. The front-passenger front air bag is therefore deactivated. A BabySmartâ„¢-compatible child restraint system is not installed on the front-passenger seat. The BabySmartâ„¢ system is malfunctioning. X Have the BabySmartâ„¢ system checked as soon as possible at

an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

G Warning If the 45 indicator lamp illuminates and remains illuminated when the weight of a typical adult or someone larger than a small individual has been detected on the passenger seat, do not allow any occupant to use the passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Problem The 45
indicator lamp does not illuminate or does not remain illuminated with a BabySmartâ„¢- compatible child restraint system properly installed on the front-passenger seat.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The BabySmartâ„¢ system is malfunctioning. X Make sure there is nothing between the seat cushion and the

child seat.

X Check the installation of the child restraint system. X If the 45 indicator lamp does not illuminate, have the

BabySmartâ„¢ system checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not transport a child on the front-passenger seat until the child seat recognition system has been repaired.

NECK-PRO head restraints (except C63 AMG) The NECK-PRO head restraints increase protection for the driver's and front- passenger's head and neck. In the event of a rear collision of a certain severity, the head restraints on the driver's and the front- passenger seats are moved forwards and upwards. This provides better head support. G Warning Do not secure any objects (e.g. coat hangers) on the NECK-PRO head restraints. Otherwise,

the NECK-PRO head restraints may not function properly, or in the event of a rear-end collision may not be able offer the level of protection they are designed to provide. G Warning Only use seat covers/head restraint covers that have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz for your model. Using seat covers and head restraint covers other than those recommended may cause a malfunction when NECK-PRO head restraints are triggered or front side impact air bags/

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pelvis air bags may be prevented from deploying. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability.

If the NECK-PRO head restraints have been triggered in an accident, you must reset the NECK-PRO head restraints on the driver's and front-passenger seat (Y page 50). Otherwise, the additional protection will not be available in the event of another rear-end collision. You can recognize that NECK-PRO head restraints have been triggered by the fact that they have moved forwards and can no longer be adjusted. G Warning! For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints. Adjust the head restraint so that it is as close to the head as possible and the center of the head restraint supports the back of the head at eye level. This will reduce the potential for injury to the head and neck in the event of an accident or similar situation.

qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Press the base of the NECK-PRO head

restraint cushion back in the direction of arrow ; as far as it will go.

X Push the NECK-PRO head restraint cushion

down into the guide in the direction of arrow = as far as it will go.

X Firmly fold the NECK-PRO head restraint cushion back in the direction of arrow : until it engages.

X Repeat this procedure for the second

NECK-PRO head restraint.

Resetting triggered NECK-PRO head restraints (except AMG vehicles) G Warning For safety reasons, have the NECK-PRO head restraints checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center after a rear-end collision. G Warning When pushing back the NECK-PRO head restraint cushion, make sure your fingers do not become caught between the head restraint cushion and the cover. Failure to observe this could result in injuries.

i Resetting the NECK-PRO head restraints

requires a lot of strength. If you have difficulty resetting the NECK-PRO head restraints, have this work carried out at a

Seat belts Important safety notes The use of seat belts and infant and child restraint systems is required by law in all 50
states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces. Even where this is not the case, all vehicle occupants should have their seat belts fastened when the vehicle is in motion. i See "Children in the vehicle"

(Y page 55) for more information on infants and children traveling with you in the vehicle and restraints for infants and children. G Warning! Always fasten your seat belt before driving off. Always make sure all of your passengers are

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properly restrained. You and your passengers should always wear seat belts. Failure to wear and properly fasten and position your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident. 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. The air bags can only protect as intended if the occupants are properly wearing their seat belts. G Warning Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat backrest in an excessively reclined position as this can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the seat 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 restraint when the wearer is in a position that is as upright as possible and the seat belt is properly positioned on the body. G Warning Never let more people ride in the vehicle than there are seat belts available. Make sure everyone riding in the vehicle is correctly restrained with a separate seat belt. Never use a seat belt for more than one person at a time. G Warning Damaged seat belts or seat belts that have been subjected to stress in an accident must be replaced and their anchoring points must also be checked. Only use seat belts which have been approved by Mercedes-Benz.

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Do not make any modifications to the seat belts. This can lead to unintended activation of the ETDs or to their failure to activate when necessary. 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. Have all work carried out only by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Correct use of the seat belt G Warning USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY RSeat belts can only work when used

properly. Never wear seat belts in any other way than as described in this section, as that could result in serious injuries in the event of an accident.

REach occupant should wear their seat belt at all times, because seat belts help reduce the likelihood of and potential severity of injuries in accidents, including rollovers. The integrated restraint system includes SRS (driver front air bag, driver's side knee bag, front-passenger front air bag, side impact air bags, pelvis air bags, window curtain air bags for the side windows), Emergency Tensioning Devices, seat belt force limiters, and front seat knee bolsters. The system is designed to enhance the protection offered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal (front air bags, driver's side knee bag, and ETDs) and side (side impact air bags, pelvis air bags, window curtain air bags, and ETDs) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds.

RNever wear the shoulder belt under your

arm, across your neck or off your shoulder. In a frontal crash, your body would move too far forward. That would increase the chance of head and neck injuries. The seat belt would also apply too much force to the ribs or abdomen, which could severely

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injure internal organs such as your liver or spleen. Adjust the seat belt so that the shoulder section is located as close as possible to the middle of the shoulder. It should not touch the neck. Never pass the shoulder portion of the seat belt under your arm.

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

RNever wear seat belts over rigid or

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

RMake sure the seat belt is always fitted snugly. Take special care of this when wearing loose clothing.

RNever use a seat belt for more than one

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

RSeat belts should not be worn twisted. In a crash, you would not have the full width of the seat belt to distribute impact forces. The twisted seat belt against your body could cause injuries.

RPregnant women should also always use a

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

RPlace the seat backrest in a position that is

as upright as possible.

RCheck your seat belt during travel to make

sure it is properly positioned.

RNever place your feet on the instrument panel, dashboard, or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

RWhen using a seat belt to secure infant

restraints, toddler restraints, or children in booster seats, always follow the child seat manufacturer's instructions.

G Warning Do not pass seat belts over sharp edges. They could tear. Do not allow the seat belt to get caught in the door or in the seat adjustment mechanism. This could damage the seat belt. Never attempt to make modifications to seat belts. This could impair the effectiveness of the seat belts.

Fastening seat belts G Warning According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained on the rear seats than on the front-passenger seat. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seat whenever possible. Regardless of seating position, children 12
years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriately sized child restraint system or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. For additional information, see the "Children in the vehicle" section. A child's risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and/ or the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. G Warning Canada only: children 12 years old and under may ride on the front seat if a BabySmartâ„¢ compatible child restraint system is installed on the front-passenger seat. Use only Mercedes-Benz approved BabySmartâ„¢ compatible child restraint systems. A BabySmartâ„¢ compatible child restraint system will deactivate the front-passenger front air bag when installed correctly. The front-passenger front air bag will not be deactivated if the child restraint systems that are installed are not BabySmartâ„¢ compatible or if BabySmartâ„¢ compatible child restraint systems are not installed correctly. If the

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front-passenger front air bag is deployed in a collision, the child will be struck by the air bag. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result.

Seat belt outlet height adjustment You can adjust the seat belt height on the driver's seat and the front-passenger seat.