2012 Mercedes-benz CL Class Owners Manual

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 air bag 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, the 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 continue to perform their protective function for the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash.

Front air bags The front air bags increase protection for the driver's and front-passenger's head and chest.

: Driver's air bag ; Front-passenger front air bag = Knee bag Driver's air bag : deploys in front of the steering wheel; front-passenger front 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. In the first deployment stage, 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 front 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 are not deployed in situations where a low impact severity is predicted. You will then be protected by the fastened seat belt. The front-passenger front 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 air bag control unit predicts a high

impact severity.

Driver's knee bag Driver's knee bag =(Y page 44) provides additional protection for the driver against: Rknee injuries Rthigh injuries Rlower leg injuries Driver's knee bag =(Y page 44) deploys below the steering wheel. During a frontal impact, if the system determines that air bag deployment can offer additional protection to

that provided by the seat belt, driver's knee bag =(Y page 44) is deployed along with the driver's 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 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.

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

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45

Front side impact air bags : and rear side impact air bags ; deploy 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 ETDs 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. Side impact air bags will not deploy in side impacts which do not exceed the system's preset deployment thresholds for lateral acceleration/deceleration. You will then be protected by the fastened seat belt. If the OCS detects that the front-passenger seat is not occupied and the front-passenger seat belt is not fastened (the belt tongue is not engaged in the seat belt buckle), the side impact air bag on the front-passenger side will not deploy. The side impact air bag on the front-passenger side will deploy if the front- passenger seat belt is fastened, regardless of whether the front-passenger seat is occupied or not.

46 Occupant safety

Window curtain air bags 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 fastened seat belt.

Occupant Classification System (OCS) How the occupant classification system works 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 deactivated automatically for certain weight categories. The 42 indicator lamp shows you the current status. If the 42 indicator lamp is 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 fastened correctly Rin a position that is as upright as possible with their 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 safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use seat accessories which have been approved by Mercedes-Benz. Both the driver and the passenger should always use the 42 indicator lamp as an indication of whether or not the passenger is properly positioned. 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

Occupant safety

47

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 "Air bag display messages" (Y page 357). 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 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

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.

If the driver's air bag deploys, this does not mean that the front-passenger front air bag also has to deploy. The OCS may have detected that the seat: Rwas empty or occupied by a person with a weight of up to or less than that of a typical 12-month-old child seated in a standard child restraint

Rwas occupied by a small individual, such as

a young teenager or a small adult

Rwas occupied by a child in a child restraint system, whose weight is greater than that of a typical 12-month-old child.

These are examples of when the OCS deactivates the front-passenger front air bag. Deactivation takes place although the collision fulfills the criteria for deploying the driver's air bag.

48 Occupant safety

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

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.

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

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49

unoccupied, the 42 indicator lamp 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.

50 Occupant safety

Problems with the occupant classification system

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

Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display (Y page 357).

Problem The 42
indicator lamp illuminates and remains illuminated. The person on the front-passenger seat: Rhas the weight of a

typical adult

Rhas been determined by the system not to be 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 a

weight up to or less than a typical 12- month-old child in a standard child restraint system

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The 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 that no objects are applying additional weight onto

the seat.

X If the 42 indicator lamp does not illuminate, have

the OCS checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not transport a child on the front- passenger seat as long as the OCS is not functioning.

X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display (Y page 357).

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.

PRE-SAFE® (preventative occupant protection) 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 preemptive 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, BAS PLUS intervenes powerfully Rin critical driving situations, e.g. when

physical limits are exceed and the vehicle understeers or oversteers severely

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

an unfavorable position.

Rthe air pressure in the side bolsters of the seat cushion and seat backrest of the front active multicontour seats is increased.

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 during closing, the closing procedure is stopped. The obstructed sliding sunroof or side window 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.

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51

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 seat belts and infant and child restraint systems is required by law in all 50
states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces. Even where this is not the case, all vehicle occupants should have their seat belts fastened when the vehicle is in motion. i For further information on infants and children traveling in the vehicle and on infant and child restraint systems, see "Children in the vehicle" (Y page 55). 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 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.

52 Occupant safety

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 belts 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. Do not allow the seat belt to get caught in the door or in the seat adjustment mechanism. This could damage the seat belt.

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53

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

an almost vertical position (Y page 92). X Pull the seat belt smoothly through belt

sash guide :.

X Without twisting it, guide the shoulder

section of the seat belt across the middle of your shoulder and the lap section across your hips.

X Engage belt tongue ; in buckle =. X If necessary, pull upwards on the shoulder section of the seat belt to tighten the belt across your body.

All seat belts except the driver's seat belt are equipped with a special seat belt retractor to securely fasten child restraint systems in the vehicle. For further information on special seat belt retractors, see (Y page 57). For more information about releasing the seat belt with release button ?, see "Releasing seat belts" (Y page 54).

Releasing seat belts X Press release button ?(Y page 53) and guide belt tongue ; back towards belt sash guide :.

! Make sure that the seat belt is fully rolled up. Otherwise, the seat belt or belt tongue will be trapped in the door or in the seat mechanism. This could damage the door, the door trim panel and the seat belt. Damaged seat belts can no longer fulfill their protective function and must be replaced. Consult an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center.

Belt warning for the driver and front passenger Regardless of whether the driver and front passenger have fastened their seat belts already, the 7 seat belt warning lamp lights up for 6 seconds after every engine start. It then goes out if the driver and the front passenger have fastened their seat belts.

If the driver's seat belt is not fastened after the engine is started, an additional warning tone will sound. The warning tone goes out after approximately six seconds or once the driver's seat belt is fastened. If the driver or front passenger have not fastened their seat belt after 6 seconds and the doors are closed, the 7 seat belt warning lamp lights up. Runtil the driver or the front passenger have

fastened their seat belts

Rif a vehicle speed of 15 mph(25 km/h) is

exceeded once, a warning tone with increasing intensity sounds additionally for a maximum of 60 seconds or until the driver or front passenger have fastened their seat belts.

If the driver or front passenger undo their seat belts during the journey, the 7 seat belt warning lamp lights up and the warning tone sounds again. The warning tone ceases even if the driver or front passenger have still not fastened their seat belt after 60 seconds. The 7 seat belt warning lamp stops flashing but continues to be lit. Once the vehicle is stationary, the warning tone is reactivated and the 7 seat belt warning lamp starts to flash again if the vehicle speed exceeds 15 mph(25 km/h) once. The 7 seat belt warning lamp only goes out if: Rboth the driver and the front passenger

have fastened their seat belts.

or Rthe vehicle is stationary and a door is open. i For more information on the 7 seat

belt warning lamp, see "Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster, seat belt" (Y page 378).

Emergency Tensioning Device and seat belt force limiters The seat belts are equipped with ETDs and seat belt force limiters. The ETDs tighten the seat belts in an accident, pulling them close against the body. The ETDs do not correct incorrect seat positions or incorrectly fastened seat belts. The ETDs do not pull vehicle occupants back towards the backrest. Seat belt force limiters, when triggered, help to reduce the peak force exerted by the seat belt on the vehicle occupant. The seat belt force limiters for the front seats are synchronized with the front air bags. These take on a part of the deceleration force. Thus, the force exerted on the occupant is distributed over a greater area. The ETDs can only be activated when: Rthe ignition is switched on. Rthe restraint systems are operational; see

"SRS warning lamp" (Y page 40).

Rthe belt tongue is engaged in the buckle on each of the lap-shoulder belts in the front. Rthe front-passenger seat is occupied and the belt tongue is engaged in the buckle on the front-passenger side.

The ETDs on the seats in the rear compartment are triggered independently of the lock status of the seat belts. The ETDs are triggered depending on the type and severity of an accident: Rif, in the event of a head-on or rear-end

collision, the vehicle decelerates or accelerates rapidly in a longitudinal direction during the initial stages of the impact

Rif, in the event of a side impact, on the side

opposite the impact the vehicle decelerates or accelerates rapidly in a lateral direction

Rif, in certain situations where the vehicle overturns, the system determines that it can provide additional protection

Children in the vehicle

55

If the air bags are deployed, you will hear a bang, and a small amount of powder may also be released. Only in rare cases will the bang affect your hearing. The powder that is released generally does not constitute a health hazard. The 6 SRS warning lamp lights up. G WARNING Pyrotechnic ETDs that were activated must be replaced. For your safety, when disposing of the pyrotechnic ETDs always follow our safety instructions. These are available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

! If the front-passenger seat is not

occupied, do not engage the seat belt tongue in the buckle on the front- passenger seat. Otherwise, the Emergency Tensioning Device could be triggered in the event of an accident.

Automatic comfort-install feature The front seat belts have an automatic comfort-install feature. The automatic comfort-install feature reduces the retraction force of the seat belts. This results in increased seat belt comfort.

Children in the vehicle Child restraint systems Important safety notes We recommend that all infants and children be properly secured in an infant or child restraint system at all times while the vehicle is in motion. The use of seat belts and infant and child restraint systems is required by law in all 50
states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces. Infants and children must always be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system recommended for the size and weight of the

56

Children in the vehicle

child. The infant or child restraint system must be properly secured in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. All infant or child restraint systems must meet U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213
and 225 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213 and 210.2. An information label on the child restraint system indicates whether it meets these standards. This information is also provided in the installation instructions supplied with the child restraint system. Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using an infant or child restraint system or booster seat. Observe all warning signs in the vehicle interior and on the infant or child restraint. 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 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. G WARNING Infants and small children should never share a seat belt with another occupant. During an accident, they could be crushed between the occupant and seat belt. A child's risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and/ or the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. Children too big for a toddler restraint must ride in seats using regular seat belts. Position the shoulder belt across the chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper seat belt positioning for children over 41 lb (18 kg) until they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without a booster. When the child restraint is not in use, remove it from the vehicle or secure it with the seat belt to prevent the child restraint from becoming a projectile in the event of an accident.

If an infant or child is traveling in the vehicle: X Secure the infant or child with an

appropriate infant or child restraint recommended for the child's age and weight.

X Make sure that the infant or child is

properly secured at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

Children in the vehicle

57

G WARNING When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock. Always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, even if they are secured in a child restraint system, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. A child's unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury. The children could: Rinjure themselves on parts of the vehicle Rbe seriously or fatally injured through

excessive exposure to extreme heat or cold Rinjure themselves or cause an accident with

vehicle equipment that can be operated even if the SmartKey is removed from the ignition lock or removed from the vehicle, such as seat adjustment, steering wheel adjustment, or the memory function

If children open a door, they could injure other persons or get out of the vehicle and injure themselves or be injured by following traffic. Do not expose the child restraint system to direct sunlight. The child restraint system's metal parts, for example, could become very hot, and the child could be burned on these parts. G WARNING Do not carry heavy or hard objects in the passenger compartment or trunk unless they are firmly secured in place. Unsecured or improperly positioned cargo increases a child's risk of injury in the event of Rstrong braking maneuvers Rsudden changes of direction Ran accident

Special seat belt retractor All seat belts except the driver's seat belt are equipped with a special seat belt retractor. When activated, the special seat belt

58

Children in the vehicle

retractor ensures the seat belt will not slacken once the child restraint system has been secured. Installing a child restraint system: X Always comply with the manufacturer's

installation instructions.

X Pull the seat belt smoothly from the inertia

reel.

X Engage the seat belt tongue in the belt

buckle.

Activating the special seat belt retractor: X Pull the seat belt out fully and let the inertia

reel retract it again. While the seat belt is retracting, you should hear a ratcheting sound. The special seat belt retractor is enabled.

X Push down on the child restraint system to

take up any slack.

Removing a child restraint system/ deactivating the special seat belt retractor: X Always comply with the manufacturer's

installation instructions.

X Press the seat belt release button and guide the belt tongue to the belt outlet. The special seat belt retractor is deactivated. G WARNING Never release the seat belt buckle while the vehicle is in motion, since the special seat belt retractor will be deactivated.

LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child seat anchors in the rear G WARNING Children that are too large for a child restraint must travel in seats using normal seat belts. Position shoulder belt across the chest and shoulder, not face or neck. In order to attain the correct seating position for children weighing over 41 lb (18 kg), it may be necessary to use a booster seat until they reach a height where a normal lap/shoulder

seat belt lies properly across their bodies without the need for a booster seat. Install the child restraint system according to the manufacturer's instructions. The child restraint system must be installed firmly on both brackets. An incorrectly installed child restraint system can come loose in the event of an accident, causing the child to be severely or fatally injured. Child restraint systems/child restraint retaining brackets that are damaged or have suffered damage due to an impact must be replaced.

LATCH-type (ISOFIX) is a standardized securing system for specially designed child restraint systems on the rear seats. Securing rings for two LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child restraint systems are installed on the left and right of the rear seats. Secure non LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child restraint systems using the vehicle's seat belt system. Always install child restraint systems according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Installation instructions : indicate the installation location of securing rings 2.

X Fold upholstery cover = and the Velcro

fastener upwards.

X Turn installation aid ? to a vertical position to prevent upholstery cover = from folding down.

X Install the LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child

restraint systems on both securing rings ;. Comply with the manufacturer's instructions when installing the LATCH- type (ISOFIX) child restraint system.

Top Tether Top Tether provides an additional connection between the child restraint system secured with ISOFIX and the rear seat. It helps reduce the risk of injury even further. The Top Tether anchorage points are located in the rear compartment behind the head restraints.

Children in the vehicle

59

X Move the head restraint upwards. X Route Top Tether belt ? under the head restraint between the two head restraint bars.

X Hook Top Tether hook = of Top Tether belt ? into Top Tether anchorage ;. Ensure that: RTop Tether hook = is hooked into Top

Tether anchorage ; as shown. RTop Tether belt ? is not twisted. RTop Tether belt ? can move freely

between the rear seat backrest and the head restraint.

X Install the LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child

restraint system with Top Tether. Comply with the manufacturer's installation instructions when doing so. Make sure that Top Tether belt ? is tight.

The child restraint system with Top Tether belt ? has been removed: X Slide covering cap : onto Top Tether

anchorage ;.

X Remove respective covering cap : of the

Top Tether anchorage.

X Place covering cap : in a suitable place

(e.g. in the glove box).

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Panic alarm

Child-proof locks Important safety notes G WARNING When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock. Always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, even if they are secured in a child restraint system, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. A child's unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury. The children could: Rinjure themselves on parts of the vehicle Rbe seriously or fatally injured through

excessive exposure to extreme heat or cold Rinjure themselves or cause an accident with

vehicle equipment that can be operated even if the SmartKey is removed from the ignition lock or removed from the vehicle, such as seat adjustment, steering wheel adjustment, or the memory function

If children open a door, they could injure other persons or get out of the vehicle and injure themselves or be injured by following traffic. Do not expose the child restraint system to direct sunlight. The child restraint system's metal parts, for example, could become very hot, and the child could be burned on these parts.

Override feature for the rear side windows G WARNING When children ride on the vehicle's rear seats, activate the override switch. Otherwise the children could be injured, e.g. by trapping themselves in the rear side window.

X To activate/deactivate: press button :. If indicator lamp ; is lit, operation of the rear side windows is deactivated. Operation is only possible using the switches in the driver's door. If indicator lamp ; is off, operation is possible using the switches in the rear compartment.

Panic alarm

X To activate: press ! button : for at

least one second. An alarm sounds and the exterior lighting flashes.

X To deactivate: press ! button :

again.

or X Insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock. or X Press the KEYLESS-GO Start/Stop button.

The KEYLESS-GO key must be in the vehicle.

Driving safety systems

61

i USA only:

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. The product label with FCC ID and IC certification number can be found in the battery case of the SmartKey.

i Canada only:

This device complies with RSS-Gen of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference, and 2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. The product label with FCC ID and IC certification number can be found in the battery case of the SmartKey.

Driving safety systems Driving safety systems overview In this section, you will find information about the following driving safety systems: RABS (Anti-lock Braking System) RBAS (Brake Assist System) RBAS PLUS (Brake Assist System Plus*) RESP® (Electronic Stability Program) REBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) RADAPTIVE BRAKE RPRE-SAFE® Brake

Important safety notes G WARNING The following factors increase the risk of accidents: RExcessive speed, especially in turns RWet and slippery road surfaces RFollowing another vehicle too closely The driving safety systems described in this section cannot reduce these risks or prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle. They cannot increase braking or steering efficiency beyond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of a vehicle equipped with the driving safety systems described in this section must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user's safety or the safety of others. Always adjust your driving style to the prevailing road and weather conditions and keep a safe distance to other road users and objects on the street. If a driving system malfunctions, other driving safety systems may also switch off. Observe indicator and warning lamps that may come on as well as messages in the multifunction display that may appear.

i Please note that the driving safety

systems described only work as effectively as possible when there is adequate contact between the tires and the road surface. Pay particular attention to the information regarding tires, recommended minimum tire tread depths etc. in the "Wheels and tires" section (Y page 442). In wintry driving conditions, always use winter tires (M+S tires) and if necessary, snow chains. Only in this way will the driving safety systems described in this section work as effectively as possible.

62 Driving safety systems

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Important safety notes i Observe the "Important safety notes"

section (Y page 61).

ABS regulates brake pressure in such a way that the wheels do not lock when you brake. This allows you to continue steering the vehicle when braking. ABS works from a speed of about 5 mph(8 km/h) upwards, regardless of road- surface conditions. ABS works on slippery surfaces, even when you only brake gently. G WARNING If the ABS malfunctions, other driving systems such as the BAS or the ESP® are also switched off. Observe indicator and warning lamps that may come on as well as messages in the multifunction display that may appear. If the ABS malfunctions, the wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing the steering capability and extending the braking distance.

The ! warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up when the ignition is switched on. It goes out when the engine is running.

Braking If ABS intervenes when braking, you will feel a pulsing in the brake pedal. X If ABS intervenes: continue to depress the

brake pedal with force until the braking situation is over.

X To make a full brake application:

depress the brake pedal with full force.

The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions, and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving. G WARNING Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pumping the brake pedal defeats the purpose of the ABS

and significantly reduces braking effectiveness.

BAS (Brake Assist System) i Observe the "Important safety notes"

section (Y page 61).

BAS operates in emergency braking situations. If you depress the brake pedal quickly, BAS automatically boosts the braking force, thus shortening the stopping distance. X Keep the brake pedal firmly depressed until

the emergency braking situation is over. ABS prevents the wheels from locking. The brakes will function as usual once you release the brake pedal. BAS is deactivated. G WARNING If the BAS malfunctions, the brake system still functions, but without the additional brake boost available that the BAS would normally provide in an emergency braking maneuver. Therefore, the braking distance may increase.

BAS PLUS (Brake Assist System Plus) BAS PLUS is only available in vehicles equipped with DISTRONIC PLUS. i Observe the "Important safety notes"

section (Y page 61).

At speeds above approximately 4 mph (7 km/h), BAS PLUS assists you when braking in hazardous situations and uses the radar sensor system to evaluate the traffic conditions. i This device has been approved by the FCC as a "Vehicular Radar System". The radar sensor system is intended for use in an automotive radar system only. Removing, altering or tampering with the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted by the FCC. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way.

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

With the help of the radar sensor system, BAS PLUS can detect obstacles that are in the path of your vehicle for an extended period of time. At speeds up to approximately 40 mph (70 km/h), BAS PLUS can also detect stationary obstacles, for example stopped or parked vehicles. Should you approach an obstacle and BAS PLUS has detected a risk of collision, BAS PLUS calculates the braking force necessary to avoid a rear-end collision. RAt speeds up to approximately

20 mph(30 km/h): should you apply the brakes forcefully, BAS PLUS will automatically increase the braking force to a level suitable for the traffic conditions.

RAt speeds up to approximately

20 mph(30 km/h): should you apply the brakes, BAS PLUS is activated. Braking is performed as late as possible.

If BAS PLUS demands particularly high braking force, preventative passenger protection measures (PRE-SAFE®) are activated simultaneously. X Keep the brake pedal depressed until the

emergency braking situation is over. ABS prevents the wheels from locking.

The brakes will work normally again if: Ryou release the brake pedal. Rthere is no longer any danger of a rear-end

collision.

Rno obstacle is detected in front of your

vehicle.

BAS PLUS is then deactivated. For BAS PLUS to assist you when driving, the radar sensor system must be switched on and operational, see "Radar sensor system" in the index.

Driving safety systems

63

G WARNING BAS PLUS cannot always clearly identify objects and complex traffic situations. BAS PLUS cannot intervene in these cases. There is a risk of an accident. Always pay careful attention to the traffic situation and be ready to brake.

In particular, the detection of obstacles can be impaired if there is: Rdirt on the sensors or anything else

covering the sensors

Rsnow or heavy rain Rinterference by other radar sources Rthe possibility of strong radar reflections,

for example in parking garages

Ra narrow vehicle traveling in front, e.g. a

motorbike

Ra vehicle traveling in front on a different line G WARNING BAS PLUS does not react: Rto people or animals Rto oncoming vehicles Rto crossing traffic Rin curves As a result, BAS PLUS cannot intervene in critical situations. There is a risk of an accident. Always pay careful attention to the traffic situation and be ready to brake.

Following damage to the front end of the vehicle, have the configuration and operation of the radar sensors checked at a qualified specialist workshop. This also applies to collisions at low speeds where there is no visible damage to the front of the vehicle. If BAS PLUS is not available due to a malfunction in the radar sensor system, the brake system remains available with full brake boosting effect and BAS.

64 Driving safety systems

ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) Important safety notes i See the "Important safety notes" section

(Y page 61).

If ESP® detects that the vehicle is deviating from the direction desired by the driver, one or more wheels are braked to stabilize the vehicle. If necessary, the engine output is also modified to keep the vehicle on the desired course within physical limits. ESP® assists the driver when pulling away on wet or slippery roads. ESP® can also stabilize the vehicle during braking. If ESP® intervenes, the ÷ ESP® warning lamp flashes in the instrument cluster. G WARNING Under no circumstances should you deactivate ESP® when the ÷ ESP® warning lamp in the instrument cluster flashes. Proceed as follows: Rwhen driving off, apply as little throttle as

possible.

Rwhile driving, ease up on the accelerator

pedal.

Radapt your speed to suit the prevailing road

and weather conditions.

Failure to observe these guidelines could cause the vehicle to skid. ESP® cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed.

! The ignition must be switched off if the

vehicle is being towed with the front or rear axle raised. Otherwise, ESP® may intervene and damage the brake system.

! Do not tow vehicles with 4MATIC with the

front or rear axle raised.

i Only use wheels with the recommended

tire sizes. Only then will ESP® function properly.

ETS/4ETS (Electronic Traction System) G WARNING Observe "Important safety notes" (Y page 61).

Traction control is part of ESP®. Traction control brakes the drive wheels individually if they spin. This enables you to pull away and accelerate on slippery surfaces, for example if the road surface is slippery on one side. On vehicles with 4MATIC, more drive torque is also transferred to the wheel or wheels with traction. Traction control remains active if you deactivate ESP®.

Deactivating/activating ESP® i Observe the "Important safety notes"

section (Y page 61). G WARNING ESP® should not be deactivated during normal driving other than in the circumstances described below. Disabling the system will reduce vehicle stability in driving maneuvers. Do not deactivate ESP® when the emergency or spare wheel is mounted. G WARNING CL 63 AMG: ESP® should not be deactivated during normal driving. Deactivating the system results in the following: Rno restriction to the engine torque Rloss of system-supported traction control "ESP OFF" is designed for driving on closed tracks when the vehicle's own oversteering and understeering characteristics are desired and requires an extremely qualified and experienced driver who is able to handle these critical driving situations. You could lose control of your vehicle and cause an accident.

Driving safety systems

65

Beware of these limits if you deactivate ESP®. Do not deactivate ESP® when the emergency or spare wheel is mounted.

ESP® is activated automatically when the engine is started. i Vehicles with ECO start/stop function: the ECO start/stop function switches the engine off automatically when the vehicle comes to a stop. The engine starts automatically when the driver wants to pull away again. ESP® remains in its previously selected status. Example: if ESP® was deactivated before the engine was switched off, ESP® remains deactivated when the engine is switched on again. It may be best to deactivate ESP® in the following situations: Rwhen using snow chains Rin deep snow Ron sand or gravel G WARNING Switch on ESP® immediately if one of the previously stated conditions is no longer met. Otherwise, ESP® cannot stabilize the vehicle if it begins to lurch or when a wheel spins.

When you deactivate ESP®: RESP® no longer improves driving stability. Rthe engine's torque is no longer limited and the drive wheels can spin. The spinning of the wheels results in a cutting action, which provides better grip.

Rtraction control is still activated. RESP® still provides support when you

brake.

If ESP® is deactivated and one or more wheels start to spin, the ÷ ESP® warning lamp in the instrument cluster flashes. In such situations, ESP® will not stabilize the vehicle.

X To deactivate:(Y page 342).

The å ESP® OFF warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up. G WARNING When the å ESP® OFF warning lamp is lit, ESP® is deactivated. If the ÷ ESP® warning lamp and the å ESP® OFF warning lamp remain lit, ESP® is not available due to a malfunction. When ESP® is deactivated or not operational, vehicle stability in standard driving maneuvers is reduced. Adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing road conditions and to the non-operating status of the ESP®.

! Avoid spinning the driven wheels for an extended period with ESP® deactivated. You could otherwise damage the drivetrain.

X To activate:(Y page 342).

The å ESP® OFF warning lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

EBD (electronic brake force distribution) i Observe the "Important safety notes"

section (Y page 61).

EBD monitors and controls the brake pressure on the rear wheels to improve driving stability while braking. G WARNING If EBD has malfunctioned, the braking system remains available with full brake boosting effect. However, the rear wheels can still lock, e.g. under full braking. This could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and cause an accident. You should therefore adapt your driving style to the different handling characteristics.

66 Driving safety systems

X Observe the notes on warning and indicator

lamps (Y page 380) as well as display messages (Y page 349).

ADAPTIVE BRAKE ADAPTIVE BRAKE enhances braking safety and offers increased braking comfort. In addition to the braking function, ADAPTIVE BRAKE also has the HOLD function (Y page 302) and hill start assist (Y page 269). For further information, see Driving tips (Y page 287).

PRE-SAFE® Brake PRE-SAFE® Brake is only available in vehicles with DISTRONIC PLUS. i Observe the "Important safety notes"

section (Y page 61).

PRE-SAFE® Brake can help you to minimize the risk of a frontal collision with a vehicle ahead or reduce the effects of such a collision. If PRE-SAFE® Brake has detected a risk of collision, you will be warned visually and acoustically as well as by automatic braking. PRE-SAFE® Brake cannot prevent a collision without your intervention. At speeds above approximately 4 mph (7 km/h), this function warns you when you are rapidly approaching the vehicle in front. An intermittent warning tone will then sound and the · distance warning lamp in the instrument cluster will light up. X Brake immediately in order to increase the

distance from the vehicle in front.

or X Take evasive action provided it is safe to do

so.

If the driver and front passenger have their seat belt fastened, PRE-SAFE® Brake can also brake the vehicle automatically at speeds from approximately 4 mph (7 km/h) to approximately 124 mph (200 km/h).

Due to the nature of the system, particularly complicated driving conditions may cause unnecessary warnings or the unnecessary intervention of PRE-SAFE® Brake. To stop the braking action, you can either depress the accelerator pedal further, activate kickdown or release the brake pedal. The braking action of PRE-SAFE® Brake is ended automatically if: Ryou maneuver to avoid the obstacle. Rthere is no longer any danger of a rear-end

collision.

Rthere is no longer an obstacle detected in

front of your vehicle.

i USA only: this device has been approved by the FCC as a "Vehicular Radar System". The radar sensor system is intended for use in an automotive radar system only. Removing, altering or tampering with the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted by the FCC. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

i Canada only: this device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference, and 2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Removal, tampering, or altering of the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

With the help of the radar sensor system, PRE-SAFE® Brake can detect obstacles that are in front of your vehicle for an extended period of time.

At speeds up to approximately 40 mph (70 km/h), PRE-SAFE® Brake can also react to stationary obstacles, for example stopped or parked vehicles. If you approach an obstacle and PRE-SAFE® Brake detects a risk of collision, the system will initially alert you both visually and acoustically. If you do not brake or take evasive action, the system will warn you by automatically braking the vehicle gently. If there is an increased risk of collision, preventative passenger protection measures (PRE-SAFE®) are activated (Y page 51). If the risk of collision remains at speeds of over 20 mph(30 km/h) and you do not brake, take evasive action or accelerate significantly, the vehicle may perform automatic braking up to emergency braking. Automatic emergency braking is not performed until immediately prior to an accident that can no longer be avoided. G WARNING Even if PRE-SAFE® Brake slows the vehicle before an imminent rear-end collision, the system cannot avert a collision without the intervention of the driver. There is a risk of an accident. Brake according to the situation or take evasive action. Delayed intervention by the driver can lead to an accident. G WARNING PRE-SAFE® Brake cannot always detect complex traffic situations properly. In these cases, PRE-SAFE(R) Brake may: Rgive an unnecessary warning and then

brake the vehicle

Rneither give a warning nor intervene There is a risk of an accident. Always pay particular attention to the traffic situation and be ready to brake, especially if PRE-SAFE(R) Brake warns you. Terminate the intervention in a non-critical driving situation.

Driving safety systems

67

In particular, the detection of obstacles can be impaired if there is: Rdirt on the sensors or anything else

covering the sensors

Rsnow or heavy rain Rinterference by other radar sources Rthe possibility of strong radar reflections,

for example in parking garages

Ra narrow vehicle traveling in front, e.g. a

motorbike

Ra vehicle traveling in front on a different line G WARNING PRE-SAFE® Brake does not react: Rto people or animals Rto oncoming vehicles Rto crossing traffic Rin curves As a result, PRE-SAFE® Brake cannot intervene in critical situations. There is a risk of an accident. Always pay careful attention to the traffic situation and be ready to brake.

In order to maintain the appropriate distance to the vehicle in front and thus prevent a collision, you must apply the brakes yourself. X To activate/deactivate: activate or

deactivate PRE-SAFE® Brake in the on- board computer (Y page 342). After activation, the Ä symbol is displayed on the left in the instrument cluster.

For PRE-SAFE® Brake to assist you when driving, the radar sensor system must be switched on (Y page 344) and operational. Following damage to the front end of the vehicle, have the configuration and operation of the radar sensors checked at a qualified specialist workshop. This also applies to collisions at low speeds where there is no visible damage to the front of the vehicle.

68

Theft deterrent locking systems