2013 Mercedes-benz C Class Owners Manual

MEDIUM level is recommended.

RSet the temperature to f 72 ‡ (22 †). ROnly use the "Windshield defrosting"

function briefly until the windshield is clear again.

ROnly use air-recirculation mode briefly, e.g.

if there are unpleasant outside odors or when in a tunnel. The windows could otherwise fog up, since no fresh air is drawn into the vehicle in air-recirculation mode.

RUse the ZONE function to adopt the

temperature settings on the driver's side for the front-passenger side and the rear compartment as well. The indicator lamp above the á button goes out.

RUse the residual heat function if you want

to heat or ventilate the vehicle interior when the ignition is switched off. The residual heat function can only be activated or deactivated with the ignition switched off.

RVehicles with COMAND Multimedia-

System: if you change the settings of the climate control system, the climate status display appears for approximately three seconds at the bottom of the screen in the COMAND display. See also the separate COMAND operating instructions. You will see the current settings of the various climate control functions.

136 Operating the climate control systems

Activating/deactivating cooling with air dehumidification Points to observe before use If you deactivate the "Cooling with air- dehumidification" function, the air inside the vehicle will not be cooled. The air inside the vehicle will also not be dehumidified. The windows can fog up more quickly. Therefore, deactivate the cooling with air- dehumidification function only briefly. The cooling with air dehumidification function is only available when the engine is running. The air inside the vehicle is cooled and dehumidified according to the temperature selected. Condensation may drip from the underside of the vehicle when it is in cooling mode. This is normal and not a sign that there is a malfunction.

Activating/deactivating X To activate: press the ¿ button.

The indicator lamp in the ¿ button lights up.

i When the "Cooling with air

dehumidification" function is activated, one of the indicator lamps on the auxiliary heating button will light up on vehicles with auxiliary heating.

X To deactivate: press the ¿ button.

The indicator lamp in the ¿ button goes out. The "Cooling with air dehumidification" function has a delayed switch-off feature.

Operating the climate control systems

137

Problems with the "Cooling with air dehumidification" function

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions Cooling with air dehumidification has been deactivated due to a malfunction. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

Problem The indicator lamp in the ¿ button flashes three times or remains off. The "Cooling with air dehumidification" function cannot be switched on.

Setting climate control to automatic Points to observe before use In automatic mode, the set temperature is maintained automatically at a constant level. The system automatically regulates the temperature of the dispensed air, the airflow and the air distribution. The automatic mode functions optimally when the "Cooling with air dehumidification" function is activated. If necessary, cooling with air dehumidification can be deactivated. If you deactivate the "Cooling with air- dehumidification" function, the air inside the vehicle will not be cooled. The air inside the vehicle will also not be dehumidified. The windows can fog up more quickly. Therefore, deactivate the cooling with air- dehumidification function only briefly.

Activating/switching X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147).

X Set the desired temperature. X To activate: press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button lights up. Automatic air distribution and airflow are activated.

i 3-zone automatic climate control: when

automatic mode is activated, you can select a climate mode (Y page 137).

X To switch to manual mode: press the

_ button.

or X Press the I or K button.

The indicator lamp in the à button goes out.

Adjusting the climate mode settings The "Set climate mode" function is only available with 3-zone automatic climate control. You can select the following climate mode settings in automatic mode: FOCUS

high airflow that is set slightly cooler

MEDIUM medium airflow, standard setting DIFFUSE low airflow that is set slightly

warmer and with less draft

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147).

X Press the à button. X Press the ñ button repeatedly until the

desired climate mode appears in the display.

138 Operating the climate control systems

Setting the temperature Dual-zone automatic climate control Different temperatures can be set for the driver's and front-passenger sides. X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147).

X To increase/reduce: turn temperature control : or B clockwise or counter- clockwise (Y page 131). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †).

3-zone automatic climate control

Automatic climate control zones You can select different temperature settings for the driver's and front-passenger sides as well as for the rear compartment. X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147).

X To increase/reduce the temperature in the front compartment: turn temperature control : or B clockwise or counter- clockwise (Y page 134). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †).

X To increase/reduce the temperature in the rear compartment using the front control panel: press the á button. The indicator lamp in the á button goes out.

X Turn temperature control : clockwise or

counter-clockwise (Y page 134).

Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †). The temperature setting for the driver's side is adopted for the rear compartment and the front-passenger side.

X To increase/reduce the temperature in

the rear compartment using the rear control panel: press the r or s button on the rear control panel. Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †).

Setting the air distribution Air distribution settings P Directs air through the center and side

air vents

O Directs air through the footwell air

vents

S Directs air through the center, side and

footwell vents

¯ Directs air through the defroster vents b Directs the airflow through the

defroster, center and side air vents (Canada only)

a Directs air through the defroster and

footwell vents

_ Directs the airflow through the

defroster, center and side air vents, as well as the footwell air vents (Canada only)

i Regardless of the air distribution setting, airflow is always directed through the side air vents. The side air vents can only be closed when the controls on the side air vents are turned downwards.

Setting the air distribution X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147).

X Press the _ button repeatedly until the

desired symbol appears in the display.

Operating the climate control systems

139

Setting the airflow X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147).

X To increase: press the K button. X To reduce: press the I button. i You can use 3-zone automatic climate

control to set the airflow in the rear compartment separately.

If the battery is not sufficiently charged, blower output may be reduced. As soon as the battery is sufficiently charged, full blower output will be available.

Switching the ZONE function on/off X To activate: press the á button.

The indicator lamp above the á button lights up. Dual-zone automatic climate control: the temperature setting for the driver's side is not adopted for the front-passenger side. 3-zone automatic climate control: the temperature setting for the driver's side is not adopted for the front-passenger side and the rear compartment.

X To deactivate: press the á button.

The indicator lamp above the á button goes out. Dual-zone automatic climate control: the temperature setting for the driver's side is adopted for the front-passenger side. 3-zone automatic climate control: the temperature setting for the driver's side is adopted for the front-passenger side and the rear compartment.

Defrosting the windshield You can use this function to defrost the windshield or to defrost the inside of the windshield and the side windows.

Switch off the "Windshield defrosting" function as soon as the windshield is clear again. X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147).

X To activate: press the ¬ button.

The indicator lamp in the ¬ button lights up. The climate control system switches to the following functions: Rhigh airflow Rhigh temperature Rair distribution to the windshield and

front side windows

Rair-recirculation mode off

If the battery is not sufficiently charged, blower output may be reduced. Once the battery is sufficiently charged again, full blower output will be available again. X To deactivate: press the ¬ button.

The indicator lamp in the ¬ button goes out. The previously selected settings are restored. Air-recirculation mode remains deactivated.

or X Press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the ¬ button goes out. Airflow and air distribution are set to automatic mode.

or X Dual-zone automatic climate control: turn temperature controls : or B clockwise or counter-clockwise (Y page 131). 3-zone automatic climate control: turn temperature controls : or B clockwise or counter-clockwise (Y page 134).

or X Press the K or I button.

MAX COOL maximum cooling The MAX COOL function is only available in vehicles for the USA.

140 Operating the climate control systems

the rear window defroster switches off automatically after several minutes. If the battery voltage is too low, the rear window defroster may switch off. X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147).

X Press the ¤ button.

The indicator lamp in the ¤ button lights up or goes out.

MAX COOL is only operational when the engine is running. X To activate: press the Ù button.

The indicator lamp in the button lights up. X To activate: press off-road button Ù

again. The indicator lamp goes out. The previously selected settings are restored.

When you activate MAX COOL, climate control switches to the following functions: Rmaximum cooling Rmaximum airflow Rair-recirculation mode on

Defrosting the windows Windows fogged up on the inside X Activate the ¿ cooling with air

dehumidification function.

X Activate automatic mode Ã. X Adjust the side air vents so that the warmed

air is directed to the side windows.

X If the windows continue to fog up, activate

the "windshield defrosting" function (Y page 139).

i You should only select this setting until

the windshield is clear again.

Windows fogged up on the outside X Press the _ button repeatedly until the

P or O symbol appears in the display.

X Adjust the side air vents so that no air is

directed to the side windows.

Rear window defroster Activating/deactivating The rear window defroster has a high current draw. You should therefore switch it off as soon as the rear window is clear. Otherwise,

Operating the climate control systems

141

Problems with the rear window defroster

Problem The rear window defroster has deactivated prematurely or cannot be activated.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The battery has not been sufficiently charged. X Switch off any consumers that are not required, e.g. reading

lamps, interior lighting or the seat heating. When the battery is sufficiently charged, the rear window defroster can be activated again.

Activating/deactivating air- recirculation mode Points to observe before use You can deactivate the flow of fresh air if unpleasant odors are entering the vehicle from outside. The air already inside the vehicle will then be recirculated. If you switch on air-recirculation mode, the windows can fog up more quickly, in particular at low temperatures. Only use air- recirculation mode briefly to prevent the windows from fogging up. The operation of air-recirculation mode is the same for all control panels.

Activating/deactivating X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147).

X To activate: press the g button.

The indicator lamp in the g button lights up.

i Dual-zone automatic climate control: air-

recirculation mode is automatically activated at high outside temperatures. 3-zone automatic climate control: air- recirculation mode is automatically activated at high levels of pollution or at high outside temperatures. When air-recirculation mode is activated automatically, the indicator lamp above the

g button does not light up. Outside air is added after about 30 minutes.

X To deactivate: press the g button.

The indicator lamp in the g button goes out.

i Air-recirculation mode deactivates

automatically: Rafter approximately five minutes at

outside temperatures below approximately 41 ‡ (5 †)

Rafter approximately five minutes if cooling with air dehumidification is deactivated

Rafter approximately 30 minutes at

outside temperatures above approximately 41 ‡(5 †) if the "Cooling with air dehumidification" function is activated

Activating/deactivating the residual heat function The residual heat function is only available in vehicles for Canada with 3-zone automatic climate control. It is possible to make use of the residual heat of the engine to continue heating the vehicle for approximately 30 minutes after the engine has been switched off. The heating time depends on the temperature that has been set.

142 Setting the air vents

X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the ignition lock or remove it (Y page 147).

X To activate: press the Ì button.

The indicator lamp in the Ì button lights up.

i If the residual heat function is activated,

the windows may fog up on the inside.

i The blower will run at a low speed

regardless of the airflow setting.

i If you activate the residual heat function at high temperatures, only the ventilation will be activated. The blower runs at medium speed.

X To deactivate: press the Ì button.

The indicator lamp in the Ì button goes out.

Residual heat is deactivated automatically: Rafter approximately 30 minutes Rwhen the ignition is switched on Rif the battery voltage drops

Setting the air vents Important safety notes G WARNING Very hot or very cold air can flow from the air vents. This could result in burns or frostbite in the immediate vicinity of the air vents. There is a risk of injury. Make sure that all vehicle occupants always maintain a sufficient distance to the air outlets. If necessary, redirect the airflow to another area of the vehicle interior.

In order to ensure the direct flow of fresh air through the air vents into the vehicle interior, please observe the following notes: Rkeep the air inlet between the windshield and the hood free of blockages, such as ice, snow or leaves.

Rnever cover the air vents or air intake grilles

in the vehicle interior.

Setting the center air vents

: Center air vent, left ; Center air vent, right = Center vent thumbwheel, right ? Center vent thumbwheel, left X To open/close: turn thumbwheels =

and ? up or down.

Setting the side air vents

: Defroster vent ; Side air vent = Control for side air vent X To open/close: turn thumbwheel = up or

down.

Setting the glove box air vent ! Close the air vent when heating the

vehicle. At high outside temperatures, open the air vent and activate the "cooling with air

dehumidification" function. Otherwise, temperature-sensitive items stored in the glove box could be damaged.

Setting the air vents

143

= Rear control panel, only for Canada with

3-zone automatic climate control

? Rear-compartment air vent, left X To open/close: turn thumbwheel : up or

down.

: Air vent thumbwheel ; Air vent When automatic climate control is activated, the glove box can be ventilated, for instance to cool its contents. The level of airflow depends on the airflow and air distribution settings. X To open/close: turn thumbwheel :

clockwise or counter-clockwise.

Setting the rear-compartment air vents Setting the center vents in the rear compartment

: Rear-compartment air vent thumbwheel ; Rear-compartment air vent, right

144

Useful information ............................ 146
Notes on breaking-in a new vehicle 146
Driving ............................................... 146
Automatic transmission ................... 155
Refueling ............................................ 164
Parking ............................................... 167
Driving tips ........................................ 169
Driving systems ................................ 175

145

146 Driving

Useful information

i This Operator's Manual describes all models and all standard and optional equipment of your vehicle available at the time of publication of the Operator's Manual. Country-specific differences are possible. Please note that your vehicle may not be equipped with all features described. This also applies to safety- related systems and functions.

i Read the information on qualified specialist workshops: (Y page 26).

Notes on breaking-in a new vehicle Important safety notes New and replaced brake pads and discs only reach their optimum braking effect after several hundred kilometers of driving. Compensate for this by applying greater force to the brake pedal.

The first 1000miles (1500 km) The more you look after the engine when it is new, the more satisfied you will be with its performance in the future. RYou should therefore drive at varying vehicle and engine speeds for the first 1000 miles (1500 km).

RAvoid heavy loads, e.g. driving at full

throttle, during this period.

RChange gear in good time, before the

tachometer needle is Ô of the way to the red area of the tachometer.

RDo not manually shift to a lower gear to

brake the vehicle.

RIf possible, do not depress the accelerator

pedal past the point of resistance (kickdown).

ROnly select shift ranges 3, 2 or 1 when

driving slowly, e.g. in mountainous terrain.

After 1000 miles (1500 km), you can increase the engine speed gradually and accelerate the vehicle to full speed. Additional breaking-in notes for AMG vehicles: RDo not drive faster than 85 mph

(140 km/h) for the first 1000 miles (1500 km).

ROnly allow the engine to reach a maximum

engine speed of 4500 rpm briefly.

RChange gear in good time. i You should also observe these notes on breaking in if the engine or parts of the drive train on your vehicle have been replaced.

i Always observe the respective speed

limits.

AMG vehicles with self-locking rear axle differential Your vehicle is equipped with a self-locking differential on the rear axle. To protect the differential on the rear axle, carry out an oil change after a breaking-in phase of 2000 miles (3000 km). This oil change prolongs the service life of the differential. Have the oil change carried out at a qualified specialist workshop.

Driving Important safety notes G WARNING Objects in the driver's footwell can restrict the pedal travel or obstruct a depressed pedal. The operating and road safety of the vehicle is jeopardized. There is a risk of an accident. Make sure that all objects in the vehicle are stowed correctly, and that they cannot enter the driver's footwell. Install the floormats securely and as specified in order to ensure sufficient clearance for the pedals. Do not use loose floormats.

G WARNING Unsuitable footwear can hinder correct usage of the pedals, e.g.: Rshoes with thick soles Rshoes with high heels Rslippers There is a risk of an accident. Wear suitable footwear to ensure correct usage of the pedals. G WARNING If you switch off the ignition while driving, safety-relevant functions are only available with limitations, or not at all. This could affect, for example, the power steering and the brake boosting effect. You will require considerably more effort to steer and brake. There is a risk of an accident. Do not switch off the ignition while driving. G WARNING If the parking brake has not been fully released when driving, the parking brake can: Roverheat and cause a fire Rlose its hold function. There is a risk of fire and an accident. Release the parking brake fully before driving off.

! Warm up the engine quickly. Do not use the engine's full performance until it has reached operating temperature. Only shift the automatic transmission to the desired drive position when the vehicle is stationary. Where possible, avoid spinning the drive wheels when pulling away on slippery roads. You could otherwise damage the drive train.

! AMG vehicles: at low engine oil

temperatures below 68 ‡ (+20 †), the maximum engine speed is restricted in order to protect the engine. To protect the engine and maintain smooth engine

Driving 147

operation, avoid driving at full throttle when the engine is cold.

Key positions SmartKey

g To remove the SmartKey

(shift the transmission to position P)

1 Power supply for some consumers, such

as the windshield wipers

2 Ignition (power supply for all consumers)

and drive position 3 To start the engine i The SmartKey can be turned in the

ignition lock even if it is not the correct SmartKey for the vehicle. The ignition is not switched on. The engine cannot be started.

KEYLESS-GO General notes RDo not store the KEYLESS-GO key together

with: - electronic devices, e.g. a mobile phone

or another SmartKey

- metallic objects, e.g. coins or metal film RDo not keep the KEYLESS-GO key in metal

objects, e.g. metal cases. This can affect the functionality of KEYLESS-GO.

Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO are equipped with keys featuring the integrated KEYLESS-GO function and a detachable Start/Stop button.

148 Driving

The Start/Stop button must be inserted in the ignition lock and the SmartKey must be in the vehicle. Pressing the Start/Stop button several times in succession corresponds to the different key positions in the ignition lock. This is only the case if you are not depressing the brake pedal. If you depress the brake pedal and press the Start/Stop button, the engine starts immediately. The Start/Stop button can be removed from the ignition lock. Then, you can insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock. i You do not have to remove the Start/Stop

button from the ignition lock when you leave the vehicle. You should, however, always take the SmartKey with you when leaving the vehicle. As long as the SmartKey is in the vehicle: Rthe vehicle can be started using the

Start/Stop button and

Relectrically powered equipment can be

operated.

Key positions with KEYLESS-GO

X Insert Start/Stop button : into ignition

lock ;.

i When you insert Start/Stop button : into ignition lock ;, the system needs approximately two seconds recognition time. You can then use Start/Stop button :.

Activating power supply X Position 0: if Start/Stop button : has not yet been pressed, this corresponds to the SmartKey being removed from the ignition.

X Position 1: press Start/Stop button :.

The power supply is switched on. You can now activate the windshield wipers, for example.

i If you then open the driver's door when in

this position, the power supply is deactivated.

Switching on the ignition X Position 2 (ignition): press Start/Stop

button : twice. The ignition is switched on.

i The ignition is switched off when: Rthe driver's door is opened and Ryou press Start/Stop button : once

when in this position.

As soon as the ignition is switched on, all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster light up. If an indicator lamp does not go out after starting the engine or lights up while driving, see (Y page 266).

Start/Stop button = USA only ? Canada only

Driving 149

Starting the engine Important safety notes G WARNING If children are left unsupervised in the vehicle, they could: Ropen the doors, thus endangering other

people or road users.

Rget out and disrupt traffic. Roperate the vehicle's equipment. Additionally, children could set the vehicle in motion if, for example, they: Rrelease the parking brake. Rshift the automatic transmission out of

parking position P. Rstarting the engine. There is a risk of an accident and injury. When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Never leave children or animals unattended in the vehicle. Always keep the SmartKey out of reach of children. G WARNING Combustion engines emit poisonous exhaust gases such as carbon monoxide. Inhaling these exhaust gases leads to poisoning. There is a risk of fatal injury. Therefore never leave the engine running in enclosed spaces without sufficient ventilation. G WARNING Flammable materials introduced through environmental influence or by animals can ignite if in contact with the exhaust system or parts of the engine that heat up. There is a risk of fire. Carry out regular checks to make sure that there are no flammable foreign materials in the engine compartment or in the exhaust system.

! Do not depress the accelerator pedal

when starting the engine.

General notes i The catalytic converter is preheated for up to 30 seconds after a cold start. The sound of the engine may change during this time.

Automatic transmission X Shift the transmission to position P.

The transmission position display in the multifunction display shows P.

i You can also start the engine when the

transmission is in position N.

Starting procedure with the SmartKey i To start the engine using the SmartKey instead of KEYLESS-GO, pull the Start/ Stop button out of the ignition lock.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 3 in the

ignition lock (Y page 147) and release it as soon as the engine is running.

Using KEYLESS-GO to start the engine i The Start/Stop button can be used to

start the vehicle manually without inserting the SmartKey into the ignition lock. The Start/Stop button must be inserted in the ignition lock and the SmartKey must be in the vehicle. This mode for starting the engine operates independently of the ECO start/stop automatic engine start function.

X Depress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

X Press the Start/Stop button once

(Y page 147). The engine starts.

150 Driving

Pulling away Automatic transmission G WARNING If the engine speed is above the idling speed and you engage transmission position D or R, the vehicle could pull away suddenly. There is a risk of an accident. When engaging transmission position D or R, always firmly depress the brake pedal and do not simultaneously accelerate.

! If a warning tone sounds and the Release Park. Brake message appears in the multifunction display, the parking brake is still applied. Release the parking brake.

X Depress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

X Shift the transmission to position D or R. X Release the parking brake (Y page 169). X Release the brake pedal. X Carefully depress the accelerator pedal. i It is only possible to shift the transmission

from position P to the desired position if you depress the brake pedal. Only then is the parking lock released. If you do not depress the brake pedal, you can move the DIRECT SELECT lever but the parking lock remains engaged.

i The vehicle locks centrally once you have pulled away. The locking knobs in the doors drop down. You can open the doors from the inside at any time. You can also deactivate the automatic locking feature (Y page 232).

i Upshifts take place at higher engine

speeds after a cold start. This helps the catalytic converter to reach its operating temperature more quickly.

Hill start assist G WARNING After a short time, hill start assist will no longer brake your vehicle and it could roll away. There is a risk of an accident and injury. Therefore, quickly move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal. Never leave the vehicle when it is held by hill start assist.

Hill start assist helps you when pulling away forwards or in reverse on an uphill gradient. It holds the vehicle for a short time after you have removed your foot from the brake pedal. This gives you enough time to move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal and to depress it before the vehicle begins to roll. X Take your foot off the brake pedal.

The vehicle is then held for about a second.

X Pull away. Hill start assist will not function if: Ryou are pulling away on a level road or on

a downhill gradient.

Rthe transmission is in position N. Rthe parking brake is applied. RESP® is malfunctioning.

ECO start/stop function Introduction The ECO start/stop function switches the engine off automatically if the vehicle is stopped under certain conditions. The engine starts automatically when the driver wants to pull away again. The ECO start/stop function thereby helps you to reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of your vehicle.

Driving 151

Important safety notes G WARNING If the engine is switched off automatically and you exit the vehicle, the engine is restarted automatically. The vehicle may begin moving. There is a risk of accident and injury. If you wish to exit the vehicle, always turn off the ignition and secure the vehicle against rolling away.

General notes

: ECO start/stop display If the ¤ symbol is shown in green in the multifunction display, the ECO start/stop function switches the engine off automatically if the vehicle stops moving. Every time you switch on the engine using the SmartKey or the Start/Stop button, the ECO start/stop function is activated. If the ECO start/stop function has been manually deactivated (Y page 152) or a malfunction has caused the system to be deactivated, the ¤ symbol is not displayed. AMG vehicles: the Stop/Start active or Stop/Start inactive message in the AMG menu in the multifunction display goes out. AMG vehicles: the ECO start/stop function is only available in drive program C. For further information on automatic engine switch-off (Y page 151) and automatic engine start (Y page 152).

Automatic engine switch-off General notes If the vehicle is braked to a standstill in D or N, the ECO start/stop function switches off the engine automatically. The ECO start/stop function is operational and the ¤ symbol is displayed in green in the multifunction display, if: Rthe indicator lamp in the ECO button is lit

green.

Rthe outside temperature is within the

comfort range.

Rthe engine is at normal operating

temperature.

Rthe set temperature for the vehicle interior

has been reached.

Rthe battery is sufficiently charged. Rthe system detects that the windshield is not fogged up when the air-conditioning system is switched on.

Rthe hood is closed. Rthe driver's door is closed and the driver's

seat belt is fastened.

If conditions for automatic engine switch-off have not been fulfilled, the ¤ symbol will be shown in yellow. AMG vehicles: the AMG menu in the multifunction display also shows the Stop/ Start inactive message. i If you shift the transmission from R to D,

the ECO start/stop function is available again once the ¤ symbol reappears in green in the multifunction display.

i All of the vehicle's systems remain active

when the engine has been stopped automatically.

i All vehicles (apart from AMG

vehicles): automatic engine switch-off can take place a maximum of four times consecutively (initial stop then repeated three times). The ¤ symbol is shown in yellow in the multifunction display after the engine has been started automatically for

152 Driving

the fourth time. When the ¤ symbol is shown in green in the multifunction display, automatic engine switch-off is again possible.

i AMG vehicles: times which the engine

can be automatically switched off.

i The HOLD function can also be activated

if the engine has been switched off automatically. It is then not necessary to continue applying the brakes during the automatic stop phase. When you depress the accelerator pedal, the engine starts automatically and the braking effect of the HOLD function is deactivated.

Automatic engine start The engine starts automatically if: Ryou switch off the ECO start/stop function

by pressing the ECO button.

Ryou release the brakes when in

transmission position D or N and when the HOLD function is not active.

Ryou depress the accelerator pedal. Ryou engage reverse gear R. Ryou move the transmission out of position

P.

Ryou switch to drive program S, S+ or M

(AMG vehicles).

Ryou unfasten your seat belt or open the

driver's door.

Rthe vehicle starts to roll. Rthe brake system requires this. Rthe temperature in the vehicle interior

deviates from the set range.

Rthe system detects moisture on the windshield when the air-conditioning system is switched on.

Rthe charge level of the battery is too low. i Shifting the transmission to position P

does not start the engine.

i If you shift the transmission from R to D,

the ECO start/stop function is available

again once the ¤ symbol reappears in green in the multifunction display.

Deactivating/activating the ECO start/ stop function

ECO button X To switch off (except AMG vehicles):

press button :. Indicator lamp ; and the ¤ symbol in the multifunction display go out.

X To switch on (except AMG vehicles):

press button :. Indicator lamp ; lights up. If all conditions for automatic engine switch-off (Y page 151) are fulfilled, the ¤ symbol is shown in green in the multifunction display. If not all conditions for automatic engine switch-off (Y page 151) are fulfilled, the ¤ symbol is shown in yellow in the multifunction display. If this is the case, the ECO start/stop function is not available.

X To switch off (AMG vehicles): press

button : in drive program C.

or X Switch to drive program S, S+ or M

(Y page 159). Indicator lamp ; and the ¤ symbol in the multifunction display go out. The Stop/Start active or Stop/Start inactive message in the AMG menu in the multifunction display goes out.

Driving 153

X To switch on (AMG vehicles): press

button :. Indicator lamp ; lights up. If drive program S, S+ or M is active, the automatic transmission switches to drive program C. If all conditions for automatic engine switch-off (Y page 151) are fulfilled, the ¤ symbol is shown in green in the multifunction display. In addition, the Stop/Start active message is shown in the AMG menu in the multifunction display. If conditions for automatic engine switch- off (Y page 151) have not been fulfilled, the ¤ symbol will be shown in yellow. If this is the case, the ECO start/stop function is not available. In addition, the Stop/Start inactive message is shown in the AMG menu in the multifunction display.

i If indicator lamp ; is off, the ECO start/

stop function has been deactivated manually or as the result of a malfunction. The engine will then not be switched off automatically when the vehicle stops.

154 Driving

Problems with the engine Problem The engine does not start. The starter motor can be heard.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions RThere is a malfunction in the engine electronics. RThere is a malfunction in the fuel supply. X Before attempting to start the engine again, turn the SmartKey in the ignition back to position 0 or press the Start/Stop button repeatedly until all indicator lamps in the instrument cluster go out.

X Try to start the engine again (Y page 149). Avoid excessively

long and frequent attempts to start the engine as these will drain the battery.

If the engine does not start after several attempts: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. The on-board voltage is too low because the battery is too weak or discharged. X Jump-start the vehicle (Y page 326). If the engine does not start despite attempts to jump-start it: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. The starter motor was exposed to a thermal load that was too high. X Allow the starter motor to cool down for approximately two

minutes.

X Try to start the engine again. If the engine still does not start: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. There is a malfunction in the engine electronics or in a mechanical component of the engine management system. X Only depress the accelerator pedal slightly. X Have the cause rectified immediately at a qualified specialist

workshop. Otherwise, non-combusted fuel may get into the catalytic converter and damage it.

The coolant level is too low. The coolant is too hot and the engine is no longer being cooled sufficiently. X Stop as soon as possible and allow the engine and the coolant

to cool down.

X Check the coolant level (Y page 308). Observe the warning

notes as you do so and add coolant if necessary.

The engine does not start. You cannot hear the starter motor.

The engine is not running smoothly and is misfiring.

The coolant temperature gauge shows a value above 248 ‡ (120 †).

Automatic transmission 155

Automatic transmission Important safety notes G WARNING If the engine speed is above the idling speed and you engage transmission position D or R, the vehicle could pull away suddenly. There is a risk of an accident. When engaging transmission position D or R, always firmly depress the brake pedal and do not simultaneously accelerate. G WARNING The automatic transmission switches to neutral position N when you switch off the engine. The vehicle may roll away. There is a risk of an accident. After switching off the engine, always switch to parking position P. Prevent the parked vehicle from rolling away by applying the parking brake.

Selector lever Overview of transmission positions

Transmission position and drive program display ! If the transmission position display in the

multifunction display is not working, you should pull away carefully to check whether the desired transmission position is engaged. Ideally, you should select transmission position D and drive program C. Do not restrict the shift range.

: Transmission position display ; Drive program display The current position of the selector lever is shown by the indicators next to the selector lever. The indicators light up when the SmartKey is inserted into the ignition lock. The indicators go out when the SmartKey is removed from the ignition lock.

DIRECT SELECT lever Overview of transmission positions

Selector lever in AMG vehicles with P button j Park position with parking lock k Reverse gear i Neutral h Drive

j Park position with parking lock k Reverse gear i Neutral h Drive

156 Automatic transmission

The DIRECT SELECT lever is on the right of the steering column. i The DIRECT SELECT lever always returns

to its original position. The current transmission position P, R, N or D appears in the transmission position display (Y page 155) in the multifunction display.

Transmission position and drive program display ! If the transmission position display in the

multifunction display is not working, you should pull away carefully to check whether the desired transmission position is engaged. Ideally, you should select transmission position D and drive program E or S. Do not restrict the shift range.

: Transmission position display ; Drive program display The current transmission position and drive program appear in the multifunction display. i The arrows in the transmission position

display show how and into which transmission positions you can change using the DIRECT SELECT lever.

Engaging park position P ! If the engine speed is too high or the

vehicle is moving, do not shift the automatic transmission directly from D to R, from R to D or directly to P. The automatic transmission could otherwise be damaged.

j Park position with parking lock k Reverse gear i Neutral h Drive X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever in the

direction of arrow P.

i The automatic transmission shifts into

park position P automatically: Rif you open the driver's door while the

vehicle is stationary in transmission position D or R

Rif you open the door while traveling at

very low speeds in transmission position D or R

HOLD function or DISTRONIC PLUS: if the vehicle is braked using the HOLD function or DISTRONIC PLUS, the automatic transmission shifts automatically to transmission position P. In addition, at least one of the following conditions must be fulfilled: Rthe engine is switched off. Rthe driver's door is open and the seat belt

is not in the buckle.

Automatic transmission 157

Engaging park position P in AMG vehicles

vehicle. Always keep the SmartKey out of reach of children.

X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up or down

to the first point of resistance.

X When the vehicle is stationary, press P

button :.

Engaging reverse gear R ! Only shift the automatic transmission to

R when the vehicle is stationary.

X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up past the

first point of resistance.

Shifting to neutral N G WARNING If children are left unsupervised in the vehicle, they could: Ropen the doors, thus endangering other

people or road users.

Rget out and disrupt traffic. Roperate the vehicle's equipment. Additionally, children could set the vehicle in motion if, for example, they: Rrelease the parking brake. Rshift the automatic transmission out of

parking position P. Rstarting the engine. There is a risk of an accident and injury. When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Never leave children or animals unattended in the

If the engine has been switched off, the automatic transmission automatically shifts to N. If the automatic transmission is to remain in neutral N, e.g. for washing the vehicle in car washes with a towing device, please observe the following instructions: Using the SmartKey: RMake sure that the ignition is switched on. RWhen the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal and keep it depressed.

RShift to neutral N. RRelease the brake pedal. RIf the parking brake is engaged, release it. RSwitch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the ignition lock.

Using KEYLESS-GO: RMake sure that the ignition is switched on. RWhen the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal and keep it depressed.

REngage park position P. RRelease the brake pedal. RRemove the Start/Stop button from the

ignition lock.

RInsert the SmartKey into the ignition lock. RSwitch on the ignition. RDepress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

RShift to neutral N. RRelease the brake pedal. RIf the parking brake is engaged, release it. RSwitch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the ignition lock.

158 Automatic transmission

Engaging drive position D X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever down past

the first point of resistance.

Transmission positions B Park position

Do not shift the transmission into position P(Y page 167) unless the vehicle is stationary. The parking lock should not be used as a brake when parking. In addition to engaging the parking lock, you must always apply the parking brake to secure the vehicle. If the vehicle electronics are malfunctioning, the transmission may be locked in position P. Have the vehicle electronics checked immediately at a qualified specialist workshop.

C Reverse gear

Only shift the transmission to R when the vehicle is stationary.

A Neutral

Do not shift the transmission to N while driving. The transmission could otherwise be damaged. No power is transmitted from the engine to the drive wheels. Releasing the brakes will allow you to move the vehicle freely, e.g. to push it or tow it. If ESP® is deactivated or faulty: only shift the transmission to position N if the vehicle is in danger of skidding, e.g. on icy roads. ! Rolling in neutral N can damage

the drive train.

7 Drive

The automatic transmission changes gear automatically. All forward gears are available.

Changing gear The automatic transmission shifts to the individual gears automatically when it is in transmission position D. This automatic gearshifting behavior is determined by: Ra shift range restriction, if selected Rthe selected drive program (Y page 159) Rthe position of the accelerator pedal Rthe road speed

Driving tips AMG vehicles When shifting down, the double-clutch function is active regardless of the currently selected drive program. The double-clutch function reduces load change reactions and is conducive to a sporty driving style. The sound generated by the double-clutch function depends on the drive program selected.

Kickdown Use kickdown for maximum acceleration. X Depress the accelerator pedal beyond the

pressure point. The automatic transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

X Ease off the accelerator pedal once the

desired speed is reached. The automatic transmission shifts back up.

Rocking the vehicle free Rocking the vehicle free by shifting back and forth between transmission positions D and R can help to free a vehicle that has become stuck in mud or snow. The vehicle's engine management restricts repeated shifting between gears D and R up to a maximum speed of up to 5 mph (9 km/h). To shift back and forth between transmission positions D and R, move the selector lever up and down beyond the pressure point.

Program selector button General notes

All vehicles (except AMG vehicles and vehicles with the Sports package AMG) X Press program selector button :

repeatedly until the letter for the desired gearshift program appears in the multifunction display.

Automatic transmission 159

Vehicles with the Sports package AMG X Press program selector button :

repeatedly until the letter for the desired drive program appears in the multifunction display.

The program selector button allows you to choose between different driving characteristics. E Economy

Comfortable, economical driving Sporty driving style Manual gear shifting

S Sport M Manual

i For further information on the automatic

drive program, see (Y page 160).

i The automatic transmission shifts to

automatic drive program E each time the engine is started.

AMG vehicles

Drive program selector with manual drive program

160 Automatic transmission

X Turn drive program selector : until the

desired drive program appears in the multifunction display in the speedometer. The drive program indicator on drive program selector : lights up in red. C Controlled Efficiency S Sport S+ SportPlus

Comfortable, economical driving Sporty driving style Extremely sporty driving style Manual gear shifting Optimal vehicle acceleration from a standstill

M Manual RS RACE START

i For further information on the automatic

drive program, see (Y page 160).

Only change from automatic drive program C, S or S+ to manual drive program M when the vehicle is stationary. i The automatic transmission shifts to

automatic drive program C each time the engine is started.

i RS cannot be selected during normal driving. For further information on RACE START, see (Y page 188).

Steering wheel paddle shifters

: Left-hand steering wheel paddle shifter ; Right-hand steering wheel paddle shifter

In the automatic drive program, you can restrict or derestrict the shift range by using the steering wheel paddle shifters (Y page 162). i You can only change gear with the

steering wheel paddle shifters when the transmission is in position D.

Automatic drive program Automatic drive programs E and S Drive program E (drive program C on MAG vehicles) is characterized by the following: Rcomfort-oriented engine and automatic

transmission settings

Roptimal fuel consumption resulting from the automatic transmission shifting up sooner

Rthe vehicle pulling away more gently in forward and reverse gears, unless the accelerator pedal is depressed fully

Rincreased sensitivity. This improves driving

stability on slippery road surfaces, for example

Rthe automatic transmission shifting up sooner. This results in the vehicle being driven at lower engine speeds and the wheels being less likely to spin

Drive program S (or, in the case of AMG vehicles, drive programs S and S+) is characterized by the following: Rsporty engine and automatic transmission

settings

Rthe vehicle pulling away in first gear Rthe automatic transmission shifting up

later

Rthe fuel consumption possibly being higher

as a result of the later automatic transmission shift points

Manual drive program M General notes You can activate manual drive program M in the E and S automatic drive programs. In manual drive program M, you can briefly change gear yourself by using the steering wheel paddle shifters. The transmission must be in position D. Activating X Shift the transmission to position D. X Pull the left or right steering wheel paddle

shifter (Y page 160). Manual drive program M is temporarily activated. The selected gear and M appear in the multifunction display.

Shifting gears If you pull on the left or right steering wheel paddle shifter, the automatic transmission switches to manual drive program M for a limited amount of time. Depending on which paddle shifter is pulled, the automatic transmission immediately shifts into the next gear down or up, if permitted. X To shift up: pull the right-hand steering

wheel paddle shifter (Y page 160). The automatic transmission shifts up to the next gear.

i If the maximum engine speed on the

currently engaged gear is reached and you continue to accelerate, the automatic transmission automatically shifts up in order to prevent engine damage.

X To shift down: pull on the left-hand

steering wheel paddle shifter (Y page 160).