2011 Mercedes-benz CL Class Owners Manual

the vehicle, we urge you to follow the instructions and warnings contained in this Operator's Manual. Ignoring them could result in damage to the vehicle or personal injury to you or others. Vehicle damage caused by failure to follow instructions is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Vehicle equipment This manual describes all the standard and optional equipment of your vehicle available at the time of publication of the Operator's Manual. Country-specific differences are possible. Note that your vehicle may not be equipped with all functions described. This also refers to safety-related systems and functions. The equipment in your vehicle may therefore differ from that shown in the descriptions and illustrations. All the systems found in your vehicle are listed in the original purchase agreement of your vehicle. Should you have any questions concerning equipment and operation, please consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. The Operating Instructions and the Maintenance Booklet are important documents and should be kept in the vehicle.

Service and vehicle operation Service and Literature The Service and Warranty Information booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering your vehicle. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will replace and repair any factory-fitted parts based on the terms and conditions of the following warranties: RNew Vehicle Limited Warranty REmission System Warranty REmission Performance Warranty RCalifornia, Connecticut, Maine,

Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont

RState Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon

Laws)

24

Introduction

Information for customers in California Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price or lease price, if after a reasonable number of repair attempts Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC and/or its authorized repair or service facilities fail to fix one or more substantial defects or malfunctions in the vehicle that are covered by its express warranty. During the period of 18 months from original delivery of the vehicle or the accumulation of 18 000 miles (approximately 29 000 km) on the odometer of the vehicle, whichever occurs first, a reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed for a retail buyer or lessee if one or more of the following occurs: (1) the same substantial defect or

malfunction results in a condition that is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle is driven, that defect or malfunction has been subject to repair two or more times, and you have directly notified Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC in writing of the need for its repair.

(2) the same substantial defect or

malfunction of a less serious nature than category (1) has been subject to repair four or more times and you have directly notified Mercedes-Benz in writing of the need for its repair.

(3) the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of the same or different substantial defects or malfunctions for a cumulative total of more than 30 calendar days.

Please send your written notice to: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC Customer Assistance Center One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350

Maintenance The Service and Warranty Information Booklet describes all necessary maintenance work that should be performed at regular intervals. Always have the Service and Warranty Information Booklet with you when you bring the vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. The service advisor will record each service in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet for you.

Roadside Assistance The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program provides factory-trained technical help in the event of a breakdown. Calls to the toll-free Roadside Assistance number will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Representatives 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 1-800-FOR-MERCedes(1-800-367-6372) (USA) 1-800-387-0100 (Canada) For additional information refer to the Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program brochure (in the USA) or the Roadside Assistance section of the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (in Canada) You will find both in your vehicle literature portfolio.

Change of address or ownership In the event of a change of address, be sure to send in the "Change of Address Notice" found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or simply call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100. This will assist us in contacting you in a timely manner should the need arise.

Introduction

25

If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all literature with the vehicle to make it available to the next operator. If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in the "Notice of Purchase of Used Car" found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or call the Mercedes- Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.

Vehicle operation outside the USA and Canada If you plan to operate your vehicle in foreign countries, please be aware that: RService facilities or replacement parts may

not be readily available.

RUnleaded gasoline for vehicles with

catalytic converters may not be available. The use of leaded fuels can damage the catalytic converter.

RGasoline may have a considerably lower octane rating. Improper fuel can cause engine damage.

Certain Mercedes-Benz models are available for delivery in Europe under our European Delivery Program. For details, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or write to one of the following addresses:

In the USA Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC European Delivery Department One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350

In Canada Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. European Delivery Department 98 Vanderhoof Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4G 4C9

Operating safety Safety notes G Warning Work improperly carried out on electronic components and associated software could cause them to cease functioning. Because the vehicle's electronic components are interconnected, any modifications made may produce an undesired effect on other systems. Electronic malfunctions could seriously impair the operating safety of your vehicle. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for repairs or modifications to electronic components. Other improper work or modifications on the vehicle could also have a negative impact on the operating safety of the vehicle. Some safety systems only function when the engine is running. You should therefore never turn off the engine while driving. G Warning Heavy blows against the vehicle underbody or tires/wheels may cause serious damage and impair the operating safety of your vehicle. Such blows can be caused, for example, by running over an obstacle, road debris or a pothole. If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that damage to your vehicle has occurred: Rturn on your hazard warning flashers. Rslow down carefully. Rdrive with caution to an area which is a safe

distance from the road.

Inspect the vehicle underbody and tires/ wheels for possible damage. If the vehicle appears unsafe, have it towed to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or other qualified maintenance or repair facility for further inspection or repairs.

26

Introduction

Proper use of the vehicle To ensure proper use of the vehicle, you must familiarize yourself with the following information and rules: Rsafety notes in this Operator's Manual Rtechnical data in this Operator's Manual Rtraffic rules and regulations Rlaws and safety standards pertaining to

motor vehicles G Warning! Various warning labels are attached to your vehicle. These warning labels are intended to make you and others aware of various risks. Do not remove any of these warning labels unless explicitly instructed to do so by information on the label itself. Removing warning labels may cause you and others to be unaware of certain risks which may result in an accident and/or personal injury.

Problems with your vehicle If you should experience a problem with your vehicle, particularly one that you believe may affect its safe operation, we urge you to contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the problem diagnosed and rectified. If the problem is not resolved to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem with the Mercedes-Benz Center again or, if necessary, contact us at one of the following addresses.

In the USA Customer Assistance Center Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350

In Canada Customer Relations Department Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. 98 Vanderhoof Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4G 4C9

Reporting malfunctions relevant to safety For the USA only: The following text is reproduced as required of all manufacturers according to Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575
pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966.

Reporting safety defects If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to: http://www.safercar.gov; or write to: Administrator, NHTSA Headquarters, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, West Building, Washington, DC 20590. You can also obtain additional information about vehicle safety from: http://www.safercar.gov.

Introduction

27

Limited Warranty ! Follow the instructions in this manual

about the proper operation of your vehicle as well as about possible vehicle damage. Damage to your vehicle that arises from culpable contraventions against these instructions are not covered either by Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty or by the New or Used-Vehicle Warranty of Daimler AG.

Data stored in the vehicle Information regarding electronic recording devices (Including California Code Supplement § 9951) Please note that your vehicle is equipped with devices that can record vehicle systems data. If your vehicle is equipped with mbrace2 data is transmitted in the event of an accident. This information serves, for example, to test vehicle systems after an accident and to continually improve vehicle safety. Daimler AG can access this data and submit it: Rfor safety research or vehicle diagnosis

purposes

Rwith the consent of the vehicle owner or

lessee

Rin response to an official request by law

enforcement or other government agency

Rfor use in arbitration of disputes that

involve Daimler AG, its subsidiaries or its sales and service organizations

Ras otherwise required or permitted by law Please observe the mbrace2 order agreement regarding further details on data that this system records and transmits.

2 The system is called TELEAID in Canada.

28

Exterior view ....................................... 30
Cockpit ................................................. 31
Instrument cluster .............................. 32
On-board computer and COMAND ..... 34
Center console .................................... 35
Overhead control panel ...................... 36
Door control panel .............................. 37

29

30

Exterior view

Exterior view

Function : Trunk lid

Vehicle tool kit

; Lights = Rear window defroster ? Fuel filler flap A Exterior mirrors B Sliding sunroof C Defrosting the windshield

Cleaning the windows

Page 81
420
250
261
281
100
88
260
413

Function

D Windshield wipers E Opens the hood

Engine oil Coolant F Towing G Tires and wheels

Flat tire

Page 251
404
405
407
430
438
421

Cockpit

Cockpit

31

Function

Page

Function

: Steering wheel paddle

shifters

; Combination switch = Cruise control lever ? Horn A Instrument cluster B DIRECT SELECT lever C Control panel for:

Vehicle level Suspension tuning PARKTRONIC Swivelling the COMAND display COMAND display brightness Instrument lighting

278
246
292

32
274

304
304
309

114

114
114

D Overhead control panel E Automatic climate control F Ignition lock

Start/Stop button

G Adjusts the steering wheel

Steering wheel heating H Electric parking brake I On-board diagnostics

connection

J Opens the hood K Night View Assist Plus L Light switch

Page 36
256
267
267
98
99
285

404
316
244

32

Instrument cluster

Instrument cluster Overview

Function

: Coolant temperature gauge ; Fuel gauge = Front area warning display

for PARKTRONIC

? Multifunction display

Speedometer

A Transmission position B Tachometer C Drive program D Parking Guidance display

Page 328

310
330

276
329
277
310

Function

Page

E Display unit of the

speedometer

F Outside temperature

display

G Additional speedometer H HOLD function

Ä PRE-SAFE® Brake

I Adaptive Highbeam Assist Active Lane Keeping Assist ATTENTION ASSIST

329
341
303
65
247
323
315

Warning and indicator lamps

Instrument cluster

33

Function : Turn signal ; Electric parking brake, red

Page 246
375

Function

C Brakes (USA only)

J Brakes (Canada only)

! Electric parking brake, red (Canada only)

= Electric parking brake,

yellow ! Electric parking brake, yellow (Canada only)

? Seat belt A ESP® B Distance warning

375

375

375
376
378
381

D ESP® OFF E Tire pressure monitor F Engine diagnostics G ABS H SRS I High-beam headlamps J Reserve fuel

Page 375
375
378
381
380
377
379
246
380

34 On-board computer and COMAND

On-board computer and COMAND

Function

Page

Function

Page

A ? Switches on the Voice

Control System; see the separate operating instructions

B Swivels the COMAND

display Adjusts the brightness of the instrument lighting and the COMAND display

C COMAND display D CD and DVD player/

changer

E COMAND controller and

COMAND function buttons

114

114
111

204
108, 109

: % Back or deactivates the Voice Control System ; =; Selects a menu

9: Selects a function or scrolls through lists a Confirms selection or fades out display messages

= Multifunction display

? ~

Rejects or ends a call Makes or accepts a call Switches to the redial memory WX Adjusts the volume or operates RACETIMER on AMG vehicles 8 Mute

331

331

330
338
338

336

Center console

Center console

35

Function

Page

Function

: Function button for the radio and CD/DVD/SD card

; Back button = Hazard warning lamps ? Lumbar support

Multicontour seat

A Function button for the

telephone and navigation system

B Switches COMAND on/off

109
109
248
237
238

137
123

C Adjusts the volume D Programmable button E Telephone keypad F Rear window roller sunblind G Retracts the rear seat head

restraints

H Selects the drive program I COMAND controller

Page 124
109
110
389

95
277
108

36 Overhead control panel

Overhead control panel

Function

: Eyeglasses compartment ; p Switches the left-

hand reading lamp on/off

= v Switches the rear interior lighting on/off

? c Switches the front

interior lighting on/off A 3 Opens/closes the

sliding sunroof

B G SOS button (mbrace

system)

C | Switches the

automatic interior lighting control on/off

Page

249

398

Function

D p Switches the right- hand reading lamp on/off

E Rear-view mirror F Buttons for the garage door

opener

G Microphone for mbrace (emergency call system), telephone and Voice Control System3

Page 385

249

250

250

89

392

249

3 Observe the additional operating instructions.

Door control panel

Door control panel

37

Function

Page

D n Activates/

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

E p Opens/closes the

trunk lid

60

82

Function

: Opens the door ; &% Locks/unlocks the vehicle from the inside = Adjusts the seat electrically

? r45=

Memory function w Adjusts the front- passenger seat from the driver’s seat

A c Seat heating

s Seat ventilation

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

C W Opens/closes the

side windows

Page 79

79
94

102

94
97
98

100

85

38

Vehicle equipment .............................. 40
Occupant safety .................................. 40
Children in the vehicle ........................ 56
Panic alarm .......................................... 60
Driving safety systems ....................... 61
Anti-theft systems .............................. 68

39

40 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 RPRE-SAFE® 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 BabySmart™ 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 56) 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 goes out while the engine is running.

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 the seat belt, the Emergency Tensioning Device (ETD) and the air bag 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

41

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. PRE- SAFE® has electrically operated reversible belt tensioners in addition to the pyrotechnic ETDs.

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. to the: - padded steering wheel boss - knee bag covers - outer side of front seat bolsters - side trim next to the rear seat backrest

front-passenger air bag cover

roof lining trim

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.

42 Occupant safety

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 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 and

window curtain air bags)

Rrollover (window curtain 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 or the rear side trim panel where the side 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.

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. There is a possibility for a side impact air bag- related injury 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)

Occupants, especially children, should never place their bodies or lean their heads in the area of the door where the side impact air bag inflates. This could result in serious injuries or death should

Occupant safety

43

the side impact air bag be deployed. 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. and for children 12 years old and under, use an appropriately sized infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. Always wear seat belts properly.

(2)

(3)

If you believe that, even with the use of these guidelines, it would be safer for your rear seat occupants to have the rear mounted side impact air bags deactivated, then deactivation can be carried out upon your written request at an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center at an additional cost. Please contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call the Customer Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372), or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100 for details.

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 provide additional protection; they are not, however, a substitute for seat belts. All vehicle occupants must fasten their seat

44 Occupant safety

belts regardless of whether your vehicle is equipped with air bags 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 will continue to provide supplemental crash protection for occupants.

Front air bags G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 42). The front air bags increase protection for the driver's and front-passenger's head and chest.

: Driver's air bag ; Front-passenger air bag = Knee bag 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. The deployment of the front-passenger air bag is also influenced by the weight category of the front passenger, which is determined by the Occupant Classification System (OCS) (Y page 46). The lighter the passenger side occupant, the higher the vehicle deceleration rate required (predicted at the start of the impact) for second stage inflation of the front-passenger front air bag. In the second stage, the front air bags are inflated with the maximum amount of propellant gas available. The front air bags will not deploy in impacts with vehicle deceleration or acceleration 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. 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.

Rthe 42 indicator lamp in the

center console is not lit, (Y page 46).

Rthe impact exceeds a preset deployment

threshold.

Driver's knee bag G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 42).

Driver's knee bag = (Y page 44) increases protection for the driver against the risk of: Rknee injuries Rthigh injuries Rlower leg injuries Driver's knee bag = (Y page 44) inflates beneath the steering column. If the system determines that deployment of driver's knee bag = (Y page 44) 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 = (Y page 44) operates best in conjunction with a properly positioned and fastened seat belt.

Side impact air bags G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 42). 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 other seat covers may interfere with or prevent the deployment of the side impact air bags. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability.

Occupant safety

45

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

Front side impact air bags : and rear side impact air bags ; are deployed next to the outer seat cushions. The 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 belt tensioners If the vehicle overturns, the side impact air bags are generally not deployed. They are deployed if the system detects high vehicle deceleration or acceleration in a lateral direction and determines that side impact air bag deployment can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt. The side impact 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. If the OCS detects that the front-passenger seat is not occupied and the front-passenger

46 Occupant safety

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 whether the front-passenger seat is occupied or not.

Window curtain air bags G Warning Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 42). 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 sidewall (C-pillar).

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 Rif the vehicle overturns and the system determines that window curtain air bag

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

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) Operating principles of the Occupant Classification System 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 42 indicator lamp. With the 42 indicator lamp illuminated, the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated. The system does not deactivate: Rthe side impact 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

Occupant safety

47

accessories that have been approved by Mercedes-Benz. Both the driver and the front passenger should observe the 42 indicator lamp to determine whether or not the front passenger is positioned correctly. G Warning If the 42 indicator lamp lights up 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 42
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 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint, the 42 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and remain illuminated, indicating that the front- passenger front air bag is deactivated. When the OCS senses that the front- passenger seat is classified as being empty, the 42 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and remain illuminated, indicating 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 42 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately 6 seconds when the engine is started and then, depending on occupant weight sensor readings from the front- passenger seat, remain illuminated or go out.

With the 42 indicator lamp illuminated, the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated. With the 42
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 42 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately 6 seconds when the engine is started and then go out, indicating that the front-passenger front air bag is activated. If the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated, the front-passenger front air bag is deactivated and will not be deployed. If the 42 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 impact exceeds a preset deployment

threshold

Rindependently of the side impact air bags 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 OCS

For further information, see the section regarding air bag display messages (Y page 348). 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 appropriately sized child restraint system or booster seat

48 Occupant safety

recommended for the size and weight of the child. The infant or child restraint system 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 appropriate 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 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 42 indicator lamp is illuminated, indicating that the front- passenger front air bag is deactivated. Should the 42 indicator lamp not illuminate or go out while the restraint

is installed, please check installation. Periodically check the 42
indicator lamp while driving to make sure the 42 indicator lamp is illuminated. If the 42 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 a typical 12-month- old child, the front-passenger front air bag can be activated or deactivated.

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.

Occupant safety

49

System self-test The 42 indicator lamp illuminates when you: Rturn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the

ignition lock

Rpress the KEYLESS-GO Start/Stop button

once or twice

If an adult occupant is properly sitting on the passenger seat and the OCS classifies the occupant as an adult, the 42
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 4 indicator lamp2 will illuminate and not go out. G Warning! If the 4 2 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 50). 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.

If the SmartKey has been removed from the ignition lock or is in position 0, indicator lamp 42: does not light up. G Warning If the red SRS 6 indicator lamp in the instrument cluster and the 42
indicator lamp are lit at the same time, there is a malfunction in the OCS. 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. 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.

50 Occupant safety

Problems with the occupant classification system

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 348).

Problem The 42
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 42 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, the system then determines the occupant cannot be a child. Do not allow any occupant to use the passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

Problem The 42
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 42 indicator lamp does not illuminate, 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 348).

G Warning If the 42 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.

Occupant safety

51

PRE-SAFE® system G Warning The PRE-SAFE® system reduces the impact of an accident on vehicle occupants, as long as their seat belts have been fastened correctly. Although your vehicle is equipped with a PRE- SAFE® system, the possibility of injury in the event of an accident cannot be ruled out. You should therefore always drive carefully and adapt your driving style to the prevailing road, weather and traffic conditions.

PRE-SAFE® takes pre-emptive measures to protect occupants in certain hazardous situations. PRE-SAFE® intervenes: Rin emergency braking situations, e.g. if BAS is activated or, in vehicles with DISTRONIC PLUS, where BAS PLUS intervenes powerfully

Rin critical driving situations, e.g. when physical limits are exceeded and the vehicle understeers or oversteers severely or when having to swerve to avoid an obstacle at a speed

PRE-SAFE® takes the following measures depending on the hazardous situation detected: Rthe front-passenger seat is adjusted if it is

in an unfavorable position.

Rit increases the air pressure in the side

bolsters of the seat cushion and seat backrest of the active multicontour seats in the front.

Rif the vehicle skids, the side windows and sliding sunroof are closed so that only a small gap remains.

If the sliding sunroof or a side window is obstructed when closing, the closing procedure is stopped. The obstructed sliding sunroof or side window then opens again slightly. If the hazardous situation passes without resulting in an accident, all settings made by

PRE-SAFE® can be reversed. The air pressure in the side bolsters on the active multicontour seat is reduced again. If the seat belts are not released: X Move the backrest back slightly, but only

when the vehicle is stationary. The belt pretensioning is reduced and the locking mechanism is released. G Warning Make sure that nobody can become trapped as you adjust the seat.

! Make sure that there are no objects in the footwell or behind the seats when resetting the seats. There is a risk that the seats and/or the objects could be damaged.

Seat belts Important safety notes The use of infant or 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 56) 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 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

52 Occupant safety

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. 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, 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, window curtain air bags, and ETDs) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds and in certain rollovers (window curtain air bags and ETDs).

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 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. For this purpose, you can adjust the height of the seat belt outlet.

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.

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53

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.

54 Occupant safety

X Adjust the seat and move the backrest to