2012 Mercedes-benz CL Class Owners Manual

period, e.g. driving at full throttle.

RChange gear in good time, at the latest

when the tachometer needle is 2/3 of the way to the red area in the tachometer display.

RDo not manually shift to a lower gear to

brake the vehicle.

RIf possible, do not depress the accelerator

pedal past the point of resistance (kickdown).

ROnly select shift ranges 3, 2 or 1 when

driving slowly, e.g. in mountainous terrain. RIf possible, drive in drive program E (in AMG

vehicles in drive program C) for the first 1000 miles (1500 km).

After 1000 miles (1500 km), you can increase the engine speed gradually and bring the vehicle up to full speed.

Additional breaking-in notes for AMG vehicles: Rdo not drive faster than 85 mph

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

Ronly allow the engine to reach a maximum

engine speed of 4500 rpm briefly.

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

i Always observe the respective speed

restrictions.

Driving Important safety notes G WARNING Make sure absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure the pedals still have sufficient clearance. During sudden driving or braking maneuvers the objects could get caught between the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury. G WARNING On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control. G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You

Driving 267

could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.

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

! CL 63 AMG: at low engine oil

temperatures below 68 ‡ (+20 †), the maximum engine speed is restricted in order to protect the engine. To protect the engine and maintain smooth engine operation, avoid driving at full throttle when the engine is cold.

SmartKey positions SmartKey

SmartKey for the vehicle. The ignition is not switched on. The engine cannot be started.

KEYLESS-GO General information Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO are equipped with a SmartKey featuring an integrated KEYLESS- GO function and a detachable Start/Stop button. The Start/Stop button must be inserted into the ignition lock and the SmartKey must be in the vehicle. Pressing the Start/Stop button several times in succession corresponds to the different SmartKey positions in the ignition lock. This is only the case if you are not depressing the brake pedal. If you depress the brake pedal and press the Start/Stop button, the engine starts immediately. The Start/Stop button can be removed from the ignition lock. Then, you can insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock. i You do not have to remove the Start/Stop

button from the ignition lock when you leave the vehicle. However, you should always take the SmartKey with you when leaving the vehicle. The vehicle can be started with the Start/Stop button and the electrical equipment can be operated while the SmartKey is in the vehicle.

g To remove the SmartKey 1 Power supply for some consumers, such

as the windshield wipers

2 Ignition (power supply for all consumers)

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

ignition lock even if it is not the correct

: Start/Stop button ; Ignition lock

268 Driving

X Insert Start/Stop button : into ignition

lock ;.

i When you insert Start/Stop button :

into ignition lock ;, the system requires a detection time of approximately two seconds before you can use Start/Stop button :.

Start/Stop button = USA only ? Canada only X Position 0: if Start/Stop button : has not yet been pressed, this corresponds to the SmartKey being removed from the ignition.

X Position 1: press Start/Stop button :.

You can now activate the windshield wipers, for example.

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

this position, the power supply is deactivated.

X Position 2 (ignition): press Start/Stop

button : twice.

i If you press Start/Stop button : once when in this position and the driver's door is open, the power supply is deactivated again.

As soon as the ignition is switched on, all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster light up. If an indicator lamp does not go out after the engine is started or if it lights up while the vehicle is in motion, see (Y page 379).

Starting the engine Important safety notes G WARNING Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause unconsciousness and possible death. Do not run the engine in confined areas (such as a garage) which are not properly ventilated. If you think that exhaust gas fumes are entering the vehicle while driving, have the cause determined and corrected immediately. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with at least one window fully open at all times.

! Do not depress the accelerator pedal

when starting the engine.

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

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

Automatic transmission X Shift the transmission to position P.

The transmission position display in the multifunction display shows P.

i You can also start the engine when the

transmission is in position N.

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

X Turn the SmartKey to position 3 in the

ignition lock (Y page 267) and release it as soon as the engine is running.

Using KEYLESS-GO to start the engine G WARNING As long as the SmartKey is in your vehicle, the vehicle can be started. Therefore, never leave children unattended in the vehicle, as they could otherwise accidentally start the engine. When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, 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.

i The Start/Stop button can be used to

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

X Depress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

X Press the Start/Stop button (Y page 267)

once. The engine starts.

Pulling away Automatic transmission G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.

i It is only possible to shift the transmission

from position P to the desired position if

Driving 269

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

X Depress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

X Shift the transmission to position D or R. X Release the brake pedal. X Carefully depress the accelerator pedal.

The electric parking brake (Y page 284) is automatically released. The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

i The vehicle locks centrally once you have pulled away. The locking knobs in the doors drop down. You can open the doors from the inside at any time. You can also deactivate the automatic locking feature (Y page 234).

i Upshifts take place at higher engine

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

Hill start assist Hill start assist helps you when pulling away forwards or in reverse on an uphill gradient. It holds the vehicle for a short time after you have removed your foot from the brake pedal. This gives you enough time to move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal and depress it before the vehicle begins to roll. G WARNING Never leave the vehicle when it is held by hill start assist. After approximately one second, hill start assist will no longer brake your vehicle and it could roll away.

270 Driving

X Take your foot off the brake pedal. i Once you have taken your foot off the

brake pedal, the vehicle is held for around one second.

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

downhill gradient.

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

ECO start/stop function General information The ECO start/stop function is only available for the CL 63 AMG. The ECO start/stop function is only available in drive program C. The ECO start/stop function switches the engine off automatically when the vehicle stops moving. The engine starts automatically when the driver wants to pull away again. The ECO start/stop function thereby helps you to reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of your vehicle. The ECO start/stop function is activated each time the engine is switched on. If all the requirements are fulfilled for automatic engine switch-off (Y page 270), the green ¤ ECO symbol is shown in the multifunction display and Stop/Start active appears. If not all of the requirements are fulfilled, the ¤ ECO symbol is shown in yellow and Stop/Start inactive appears. If the ECO start/stop function is deactivated (Y page 271), the ¤ symbol is not shown. G WARNING If the engine is switched off and the ECO symbol is shown in green in the multifunction display, the engine has been switched off

automatically. All of the vehicle's systems remain active. If you open the door, unfasten your seat belt or remove your foot from the brake pedal, the engine will automatically start. The vehicle may begin moving. You could suffer serious or even fatal injury or cause an accident resulting in injury or death. Never leave the vehicle while the ECO symbol in the multifunction display is shown in green or yellow. Always secure the vehicle against rolling away before leaving it.

! Always switch the ignition off and take the

key with you when leaving the vehicle.

Automatic engine switch-off The ECO start/stop function switches the engine off automatically if the vehicle is braked to a standstill and the brake remains depressed with the transmission in position D or N. i You can still activate the HOLD function when the vehicle is stationary, even if the engine has been switched off automatically. It is then not necessary to continue applying the brakes during the automatic stop phase. When you depress the accelerator pedal, the engine starts automatically and the braking effect of the HOLD function is deactivated. Depress the accelerator pedal carefully, as the engine must be started first.

The engine is only switched off if: Rthe outside temperature is within the range

which is suitable for the system. Rthe engine is at normal operating

temperature.

Rthe set temperature for the vehicle interior

has been reached.

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

Rthe hood is closed.

Rno engine-relevant diagnostics are active. Rthe driver's door is closed and the seat belt

is fastened.

Automatic engine start The engine is started automatically if you: Rrelease the brake pedal when HOLD is not

activated and the transmission is in position D or N

Rshift the transmission to position R Rdepress the accelerator pedal Rswitch off the ECO start/stop function or

switch to drive program S or M

Runfasten your seat belt or open the driver's

door

The engine is also started automatically if: Rthe vehicle starts to roll. Rthe brake system requires this. Rthe system detects moisture on the windshield when the air-conditioning system is switched on.

Rthe temperature in the vehicle interior

deviates from the set range.

Rthe charge level of the battery is too low.

Deactivating/activating the ECO start/ stop function General information You can deactivate and activate the ECO start/stop function using COMAND (Y page 231). i You can also use the programmable button (Y page 109) to activate and deactivate the ECO start/stop function if you have assigned this function to the button.

Deactivating X Deactivate the ECO start/stop function

using COMAND (Y page 231): The ¤ ECO symbol goes out and the Stop/Start deactivated display

Driving 271

message is shown in the multifunction display.

i If drive program S or M has been selected,

the ECO start/stop function is always deactivated.

Activating X Activate the ECO start/stop function using COMAND (Y page 231). The ¤ ECO symbol and the Stop/ Start active display message are shown in the multifunction display. If not all conditions for automatic engine switch-off are fulfilled (Y page 270), the Stop/Start inactive message appears. i If you activate the ECO start/stop

function in drive program S or M, drive program C is selected automatically.

272 Driving

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

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

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

X Try to start the engine again (Y page 268). Avoid excessively

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

If the engine does not start after several attempts: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

The on-board voltage is too low because the battery is too weak or discharged. X Jump-start the vehicle (Y page 433). If the engine does not start despite attempts to jump-start it: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

The starter motor was exposed to a thermal load that was too high. X Allow the starter motor to cool down for approximately two

minutes.

X Try to start the engine again. If the engine still does not start: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

Automatic transmission 273

Problem The engine is not running smoothly and is misfiring.

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

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions There is a malfunction in the engine electronics or a mechanical component of the engine management system. X Only depress the accelerator pedal slightly. X Have the cause rectified immediately at a qualified specialist

workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Otherwise, non-combusted fuel may get into the catalytic converter and damage it.

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

to cool down.

X Check the coolant level (Y page 411). Observe the warning

notes as you do so and add coolant if necessary.

Automatic transmission Important safety notes G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal. G WARNING Keep in mind that turning off the engine alone only will shift the automatic transmission into neutral position N automatically. Always shift the automatic transmission into park position P before turning off the engine. Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

DIRECT SELECT lever Overview of transmission positions The DIRECT SELECT lever is on the right of the steering column.

P Park position with parking lock R Reverse gear N Neutral D Drive i The DIRECT SELECT lever always returns

to its original position. The current transmission position P, R, N or D appears in the transmission position display (Y page 275) in the multifunction display.

274 Automatic transmission

Engaging park position P X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever in the

direction of arrow P.

i The automatic transmission shifts

automatically into park position P if you open the driver's door when the vehicle is stationary or driving at very low speed, and the transmission is in position D or R. ! If the engine speed is too high or the

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

Engaging reverse gear R ! Only shift the automatic transmission to

R when the vehicle is stationary.

i The ECO start/stop function is not

available when reverse gear is engaged. For further information on the ECO start/ stop function, see (Y page 270).

X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up past the

first point of resistance.

Neutral N with ECO start/stop function activated The ECO start/stop function switches the engine off automatically if the vehicle is braked to a standstill when in neutral N and the brake is still depressed. For further information on the ECO start/stop function (Y page 270).

Shifting to neutral N X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up or down

to the first point of resistance.

If the engine has been switched off, the automatic transmission automatically switches to N. Remaining in neutral N If the automatic transmission is to remain in neutral N, e.g. for washing the vehicle in car washes with a towing device, please observe the following instructions: G WARNING When leaving the SmartKey in the starter switch, do not leave children unattended in the vehicle. It is possible for children to switch on the ignition which could result in unsupervised use of vehicle equipment. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Using the SmartKey: Rmake sure that the ignition is switched on. Rwhen the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal and keep it depressed.

Rshift to neutral N. Rrelease the brake pedal. Rif applied, release the electric parking

brake.

Rswitch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the ignition lock.

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

brake pedal and keep it depressed.

Rengage park position P. Rrelease the brake pedal. Rremove the Start/Stop button from the

ignition lock.

Rinsert the SmartKey into the ignition lock. Rswitch on the ignition. Rdepress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

Rshift to neutral N. Rrelease the brake pedal.

Automatic transmission 275

Rif applied, release the electric parking

brake.

Rswitch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the ignition lock.

engaged. Ideally, you should select transmission position D and drive program E (drive program C on AMG vehicles) or S. Do not restrict the shift range.

Transmission position D with ECO start/stop function activated The ECO start/stop function switches the engine off automatically if the vehicle is braked to a standstill when in transmission position D and the brake is still depressed. For further information on the ECO start/stop function (Y page 270).

Shifting to transmission position D X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever down past

the first point of resistance.

Transmission position display The current transmission position is shown in the multifunction display.

Transmission positions B Park position

Do not shift the transmission into position P unless the vehicle is stationary. The parking lock should not be used as a brake when parking. In addition to engaging the parking lock, you must always apply the electric parking brake to secure the vehicle. If the vehicle electronics are malfunctioning, the transmission may be locked in position P. Have the vehicle electronics checked at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, immediately. C Reverse gear

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

: Transmission position i The arrows in the transmission position

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

! If the transmission position display in the

multifunction display is not working, you should pull away carefully to check whether the desired transmission position is

276 Automatic transmission

A Neutral

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

the drive train.

7 Drive

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

Changing gear The automatic transmission shifts to the individual gears automatically when it is in transmission position D. This automatic gearshifting behavior is determined by: Ra shift range restriction, if selected Rthe selected drive program E/S or, for AMG vehicles, C/S/M(Y page 277)

Rthe position of the accelerator pedal Rthe road speed

Driving tips Kickdown Use kickdown for maximum acceleration. X Vehicles for USA except AMG vehicles:

fully depress the accelerator pedal. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

X Vehicles for Canada except AMG

vehicles: depress the accelerator pedal beyond the pressure point. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

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

Working on the vehicle G WARNING When working on the vehicle, engage the electronic parking brake and shift the automatic transmission into park position P. Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Automatic transmission 277

Program selector button General information The program selector button influences: Rthe drive program Rthe AIRMATIC (Y page 303) or ABC (Y page 305) suspension settings

Rthe engine management

AMG vehicles: only change from automatic drive program C or S to manual drive program M when the vehicle is stationary. X Press program selector button :

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

i When the engine is started, the automatic transmission always switches to automatic drive program E (drive program C in AMG vehicles).

Steering wheel paddle shifters

Program selector button

Program selector button on AMG vehicles In AMG vehicles, drive program E is called drive program C. E Economy C Controlled Efficiency S Sport M Manual

Sporty driving style Manual gearshifting

Comfortable, economical driving

i For further information on the automatic

drive program, see (Y page 277).

: Left-hand steering wheel paddle shifter ; Right-hand steering wheel paddle shifter You can restrict or derestrict the shift range by using the steering wheel paddle shifters. You can change gear yourself by using the steering wheel paddle shifters in the manual drive program.

Automatic drive program Drive program E (drive program C on AMG vehicles) is characterized by the following: Rthe vehicle pulling away more gently in forward and reverse gears, unless the accelerator pedal is depressed fully

Rincreased sensitivity. This improves driving

stability on slippery road surfaces, for example

Rthe automatic transmission shifting up sooner. This results in the vehicle being

278 Automatic transmission

driven at lower engine speeds and the wheels being less likely to spin

Drive program S is characterized by the following: Rsporty engine settings Rthe vehicle pulling away in first gear Rthe automatic transmission shifting up

later

Rthe fuel consumption possibly being higher

as a result of the later automatic transmission shift points

Shift ranges Introduction When the automatic transmission is in position D, it is possible to restrict or derestrict the shift range (Y page 278). The shift range selected is shown in the multifunction display. The automatic transmission shifts only as far as the selected gear. Shift range = You can use the engine's braking

effect.

5 To use the braking effect of the

engine on downhill gradients and for driving: Ron steep mountain roads Rin mountainous terrain Rin arduous conditions

4 To use the braking effect of the

engine on extremely steep downhill gradients and on long downhill stretches

Restricting the shift range X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The automatic transmission shifts down one gear and restricts the shift range to the relevant gear.

i If the engine exceeds the maximum engine speed when shifting down, the automatic transmission protects against engine damage by not shifting down.

i If the maximum engine speed for the shift

range is reached and you continue to accelerate, the automatic transmission shifts up in order to prevent the engine from overrevving, even if the shift range is restricted.

Derestricting the shift range X Pull the right-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The shift range is derestricted.

Clearing the shift range restriction X Pull and hold the right-hand steering wheel paddle shifter until D is shown again in the multifunction display. The automatic transmission shifts from the current shift range directly to D.

Selecting the ideal shift range X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter and hold it in position. The automatic transmission shifts to the gear which allows optimum acceleration and deceleration. To do this, the automatic transmission shifts down one or more gears.

Automatic transmission 279

Manual drive program Switching on the manual drive program The manual drive program is only available for AMG vehicles. Manual drive program M is different from drive program S with regard to spontaneity, responsiveness and smoothness of gear changes. Manual drive program M can be selected using the program selector button. In manual drive program M, you can change gear yourself using the steering wheel paddle shifters if the transmission is in position D. The gear currently selected and engaged is shown in the multifunction display. X Press the program selector button

(Y page 277) repeatedly until M appears in the multifunction display.

Upshifting ! In manual drive program M, the automatic

transmission does not shift up automatically even when the engine limiting speed for the current gear is reached. When the engine limiting speed is reached, the fuel supply is cut to prevent the engine from overrevving. Always make sure that the engine speed does not reach the red area of the tachometer. There is otherwise a risk of engine damage.

X Pull the right-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter (Y page 277). The automatic transmission shifts up to the next gear.

Before the engine speed reaches the red area, an upshift indicator appears in the multifunction display.

: Gear indicator ; Upshift indicator

Downshifting X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter (Y page 277). The automatic transmission shifts down to the next gear.

i If you brake the vehicle or stop without shifting down, the automatic transmission will shift down to a gear that will allow the vehicle to accelerate or pull away again. i For maximum acceleration, pull the left- hand steering wheel paddle shifter until the transmission selects the optimum gear for the current speed.

Kickdown i Kickdown is not possible in manual drive

program M.

Switching off the manual drive program X Press the program selector button (Y page 277) repeatedly until C or S appears in the multifunction display.

280 Refueling

Problems with the transmission Problem The transmission has problems shifting gear.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The transmission is losing oil. X Have the transmission checked at a qualified specialist

workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, immediately.

The acceleration ability is deteriorating. The transmission no longer changes gear.

The transmission is in emergency mode. It is only possible to shift into second gear and reverse gear. X Stop the vehicle. X Shift the transmission to position P. X Switch off the engine. X Wait at least 10 seconds before restarting the engine. X Shift the transmission to position D or R.

If D is selected, the transmission shifts into second gear; if R is selected, the transmission shifts into reverse gear.

X Have the transmission checked at a qualified specialist

workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, immediately.

Transfer case This section is only valid for vehicles with 4- wheel drive (4MATIC). Power is always transmitted to both axles. ! Performance tests may only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. The brake system or transfer case could otherwise be damaged. Contact a qualified specialist workshop for a performance test. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for this purpose.

! To prevent ESP® from intervening, the

ignition must be switched off (SmartKey or the Start/Stop button in position 0 or 1) if: Rthe electric parking brake is being tested

on a brake dynamometer.

Rthe vehicle is being towed with only one

axle raised (not permitted for vehicles with 4MATIC).

The brake system could otherwise be damaged.

Refueling Important safety notes G WARNING Gasoline is highly flammable and poisonous. It burns violently and can cause serious personal injury. Never allow sparks, flames or smoking materials near gasoline. Turn off the engine before refueling. Whenever you are around gasoline, avoid inhaling fumes and any skin or clothing contact. Direct skin contact with fuels and the inhalation of fuel vapors are damaging to your health.

Refueling 281

G WARNING Overfilling of the fuel tank may create pressure in the system which could cause a gas discharge. This could cause the gasoline to spray back out when removing the fuel pump nozzle, which could cause personal injury.

! Do not use diesel to refuel vehicles with a gasoline engine. Even small amounts of the wrong fuel result in damage to the fuel system and engine.

! Do not switch on the ignition if you

accidentally refuel with the wrong fuel. Otherwise, the fuel will enter the fuel lines. Notify a qualified specialist workshop and have the fuel tank and fuel lines drained completely.

Gasoline Fuel grade ! You should only refuel with unleaded premium-grade gasoline as this avoids damaging the catalytic converter. If engine running problems are apparent, have the cause checked immediately and repaired. Excess unburned fuel can otherwise enter the catalytic converter, leading to overheating and possibly causing a fire.

! Use a filter when refueling from a fuel can. Otherwise, the fuel lines and/or injection system could be blocked by particles from the fuel can.

i Only refuel with premium-grade unleaded gasoline with a specified minimum octane number of 91 (average value of 96 RON/ 86 MON). You will usually find information about the fuel grade on the pump. If you cannot find the label on the pump, ask the staff for assistance.

You can find more information under "Fuel" (Y page 477), or by contacting an authorized Mercedes-Benz Service Center or visiting http://www.mbusa.com (USA only).

Refueling Fuel filler flap The fuel filler flap is unlocked or locked automatically when you open or close the vehicle with the SmartKey or using KEYLESS- GO. The position of the fuel filler cap is displayed in the instrument cluster 8. The arrow next to the filling pump indicates the side of the vehicle.

: To open the fuel filler flap ; To insert the fuel filler cap = Tire pressure table ? Fuel type

Opening X Switch off the engine. X Remove the SmartKey from the ignition

lock. KEYLESS-GO: open the driver’s door. This switches the ignition to position 0, which corresponds to having removed the

282 Refueling

SmartKey. The driver’s door can be closed again.

X Press the fuel filler flap in the direction of

arrow :. The fuel filler flap opens slightly.

X Open the fuel filler flap. X Turn the fuel filler cap counter-clockwise

and remove it.

X Insert the fuel filler cap into the holder bracket on the inside of filler flap ;.

X Completely insert the pump nozzle into the

filler neck and refuel.

X Only fill the tank until the pump nozzle

switches off.

! Overfilling the fuel tank could damage the

fuel system.

Closing X Replace the fuel filler cap and turn it clockwise. The fuel filler cap audibly engages.

X Close the fuel filler flap. i If you drive with the fuel filler cap open, the reserve fuel warning lamp flashes. In addition, the ; Check Engine warning lamp may light up. A message appears in the multifunction display (Y page 365). For further information on warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster, see (Y page 384).

i Close the fuel filler flap before locking the vehicle. A locking pin otherwise prevents the fuel filler flap from closing after the vehicle has been locked.

Parking 283

Problems with fuel and the fuel tank Problem Fuel is leaking from the vehicle.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions G Risk of explosion or fire The fuel line or the fuel tank is defective. X Turn the SmartKey to position 0(Y page 267) in the ignition lock

immediately and remove it.

The fuel filler flap cannot be opened.

X Do not restart the engine under any circumstances. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. The fuel filler flap is not unlocked. or The SmartKey battery is discharged. X Unlock the vehicle (Y page 72). or X Unlock the vehicle using the mechanical key (Y page 75). The fuel filler flap is unlocked, but the opening mechanism is jammed. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

Parking Important safety notes G WARNING Do not park this vehicle in areas where combustible materials can come into contact with the hot exhaust system. Combustible materials, such as grass, hay or leaves could be ignited by the hot exhaust system and cause a vehicle fire. Do not park the vehicle on dry grassland or harvested grain fields. Unintended vehicle movement can cause serious personal injury or damage to the vehicle or the vehicle drivetrain. To reduce such risks, always do the following before turning off the engine and leaving the vehicle: Rkeep your right foot on the brake pedal. Rengage the electric parking brake. Rshift the automatic transmission into park

position P.

Rslowly release the brake pedal.

Rwhen parked on an incline, always turn the

front wheels towards the road curb.

Rturn the SmartKey in the ignition lock to

position 0 and remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock, or press the KEYLESS-GO Start/Stop button.

Rtake the SmartKey with you and lock the

vehicle when leaving.

Switching off the engine Important safety notes G WARNING Do not turn off the engine before the vehicle has come to a complete stop. With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle.

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G WARNING Keep in mind that turning off the engine alone only will shift the automatic transmission into neutral position N automatically. Always shift the automatic transmission into park position P before turning off the engine. Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

i If you cannot turn off the engine as

described here, see "Engine emergency stop" (Y page 439).

Vehicles with automatic transmission X Apply the electric parking brake. X Shift the transmission to position P. Using the SmartKey X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the

ignition lock and remove it. The immobilizer is activated.

i If you turn off the engine with the

SmartKey and then remove it from the ignition lock or open a front door, the automatic transmission shifts to P automatically.

Using KEYLESS-GO X Press the Start/Stop button (Y page 267).

The engine stops and all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster go out. i When the driver's door is closed, this

corresponds to SmartKey position 1. When the driver's door is open, it corresponds to SmartKey position 0 or "SmartKey removed".

i If you use the Start/Stop button to switch off the engine, the automatic transmission shifts to N automatically. If you then open the driver's or front-passenger door, the automatic transmission shifts to P.

i In an emergency, the engine can be

turned off while the vehicle is in motion by

pressing and holding the Start/Stop button for three seconds. This function operates independently from the ECO start/stop automatic engine switch-off function.

Electric parking brake General information G WARNING When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Children could release the parking brake and/or shift the automatic transmission out of park position P, either of which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Applying/releasing manually X To apply: press handle :.

The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up.

i The electric parking brake can also be applied when the SmartKey is removed.

X To release: switch on the ignition. X Pull handle :.

The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

i The electric parking brake cannot be

released unless the SmartKey is in position

1 in the ignition lock or if the ignition has been switched on using the Start/Stop button.

Engaging the electric parking brake automatically The electric parking brake is automatically applied if HOLD or DISTRONIC PLUS brakes the vehicle until it is stationary and at least one of the following conditions is fulfilled: Rthe engine is switched off. Rthe driver's door is open and the seat belt

is not fastened.

Rthe hood is released. Rthe trunk lid is opened while the automatic

transmission is in position R.

Rthe vehicle is stationary for a lengthy

period.

The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up. i In addition to the electric parking brake,

P may also be engaged automatically.

Releasing the electric parking brake automatically The electric parking brake is released automatically when the following conditions are simultaneously fulfilled: Rthe engine is running. Rthe automatic transmission is in position

D or R.

Rthe hood is closed. Ryour seat belt is fastened. Ryou depress the accelerator pedal. If the automatic transmission is in position R, the trunk lid must be closed.

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If your seat belt is not fastened, the following conditions must be fulfilled to automatically release the electric parking brake: Rthe driver's door is closed. Ryou shift out of P or you have previously

driven faster than 3 km/h.

Ryou have shifted out of P or you have previously driven faster than 2 mph (3 km/h).

Emergency braking The vehicle can also be braked during an emergency using the electric parking brake. X While driving, push handle : of the electric

parking brake (Y page 284).

i The vehicle is braked as long as you keep

the handle of the electric parking brake pressed. The longer the electric parking brake handle is depressed, the greater the braking force. During braking: Ra warning tone sounds. Rthe Please Release Parking Brake message appears.

Rthe red F (USA only) or ! (Canada

only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up.

When the vehicle has been braked to a standstill, the electric parking brake is engaged.

Parking the vehicle for a long period If you leave the vehicle parked for longer than four weeks, the battery may be damaged by exhaustive discharge. X Connect a trickle charger. i You can obtain information about trickle

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

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If you leave the vehicle parked for longer than six weeks, the vehicle may suffer damage as a result of lack of use. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop and

seek advice.

Driving tips General driving tips Important safety notes G WARNING Always remember that you must concentrate primarily on driving the vehicle. The driver's concentration must always be directed primarily at road traffic. For your own safety and that of others, we recommend that you stop the vehicle at a safe place and in accordance with the traffic conditions before making or accepting a phone call. Comply with all legal requirements if you use the telephone while driving. Use the hands- free system and only use the telephone when road, weather and traffic conditions permit. In some jurisdictions, it is forbidden for drivers to use mobile phones while driving. Only operate COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data System) in compliance with all legal requirements and when the road, weather and traffic conditions permit. You may otherwise not be able to observe the traffic conditions, endangering yourself and others. Remember that your vehicle covers a distance of 44 feet (approximately 14 m) a second when it is traveling at only 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h).

Drive sensibly – save fuel Observe the following tips to save fuel: X The tires should always be inflated to the

recommended tire pressure. X Remove unnecessary loads. X Remove roof racks when they are not

needed.

X Warm up the engine at low engine speeds. X Avoid frequent acceleration or braking. X Have all maintenance work carried out as

indicated by the service intervals in the Service Booklet or by the service interval display.

Fuel consumption also increases when driving in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic and in mountainous terrain.

Drinking and driving G WARNING Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and driving are very dangerous combinations. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect your reflexes, perceptions and judgment. The possibility of a serious or even fatal accident are greatly increased when you drink or take drugs and drive. Do not drink or take drugs and drive or allow anyone to drive who has been drinking or taking drugs.

Pedals G WARNING Make sure absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure that the pedals still have sufficient clearance. During sudden driving or braking maneuvers, the objects could get caught between the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury.

Rolling with the engine switched off G WARNING There is no power assistance for the steering and the brake when the engine is not running.

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287

Steering and braking requires significantly more effort and you could lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident as a result. Do not turn off the engine while the vehicle is in motion.

Exhaust check G WARNING Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause unconsciousness and possible death. Do not run the engine in confined areas (such as a garage) which are not properly ventilated. If you think that exhaust gas fumes are entering the vehicle while driving, have the cause determined and corrected immediately. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with at least one window fully open at all times.

Certain engine systems are designed to keep the level of poisonous components in exhaust fumes within legal limits. These systems only work at peak efficiency when they are maintained exactly in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. For this reason, all work on the engine must be carried out only by qualified and authorized Mercedes-Benz technicians. The engine settings must not be changed in any circumstances. Furthermore, all specific service work must be carried out at regular intervals and in accordance with the Mercedes-Benz service requirements. Details can be found in the Service Booklet.

Brakes Important safety notes G WARNING On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle

control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control. G WARNING Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

Downhill gradients ! On long and steep gradients, you must reduce the load on the brakes by shifting early to a lower gear. This allows you to take advantage of the engine braking effect and helps avoid overheating and excessive wear of the brakes. When you take advantage of the engine braking effect, a drive wheel may not turn for some time, e.g. on a slippery road surface. This could cause damage to the drive train. This type of damage is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz warranty.

Heavy and light loads G WARNING Depressing the brake pedal constantly results in excessive and premature wear to the brake pads. It may also cause the brakes to overheat, seriously impairing their effectiveness. It may then not be possible to stop the vehicle in sufficient time to avoid an accident.

If the brakes have been subjected to a heavy load, do not stop the vehicle immediately, but drive on for a short while. This allows the airflow to cool the brakes more quickly.

Wet roads G WARNING After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through water deep enough to wet brake components, the first braking action may be somewhat reduced. You have to depress the brake pedal

288 Driving tips

more firmly. Maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.

After driving on a wet road or having the vehicle washed, brake firmly while paying attention to the traffic conditions. This will warm up the brake discs, thereby drying them more quickly and protecting them against corrosion.

Limited braking performance on salt treated roads G WARNING The layer of salt on the brake discs and the brake pads/linings may cause a delay in the braking effect, resulting in a significantly longer braking distance, which could lead to an accident. To avoid this danger, you should: Roccasionally brake carefully, without

putting other road users at risk, when you are driving on salted roads. This helps to remove any salt that may have started to build up on the brake discs and the brake pads/linings.

Rmaintain a greater distance to the vehicle

ahead and drive with particular care.

Rcarefully apply the brakes at the end of a trip and immediately after commencing a new trip, so that salt residues are removed from the brake discs.

Servicing the brakes ! If the red brake warning lamp lights up in

the instrument cluster and you hear a warning tone while the engine is running, the brake fluid level may be too low. Observe additional warning messages in the multifunction display. The brake fluid level may be too low due to brake pad wear or leaking brake lines. Have the brake system checked immediately. This work should be carried out at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

All checks and maintenance work on the brake system must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop. This work should be carried out at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Have the brake pads replaced and the brake fluid renewed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. G WARNING If brake pads or brake fluid other than those recommended are used, the braking properties of the vehicle can be degraded to an extent that safe braking is substantially impaired. This could result in an accident.

! Vehicles with 4MATIC: function or

performance tests may only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. If you are planning to have the vehicle tested on such a dynamometer, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center to obtain further information first. Otherwise, you could damage the drive train or the brake system.

! Vehicles with 4MATIC: as the ESP®

system operates automatically, the engine and the ignition must be switched off (SmartKey in position 0 or 1 in the ignition lock or Start/Stop button in position 0 or 1) when the electric parking brake is being tested on a brake dynamometer. Braking maneuvers triggered automatically by ESP® may seriously damage the brake system.

! Vehicles with 4MATIC: as the ESP®

system operates automatically, the engine and the ignition system must be switched off (SmartKey in position 0 or 1 in the ignition lock or Start/Stop button in position 0 or 1) when: Rtesting the electric parking brake on a

brake dynamometer.

Ryou intend to have the vehicle towed with

one of the axles raised.

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289

Braking maneuvers triggered automatically by ESP® may seriously damage the brake system.

If your brake system is subject only to moderate loads, you should test the functionality of your brakes at regular intervals by pressing firmly on the brake pedal at high speeds. This improves the grip of the brake pads. G WARNING Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

You can find a description of Brake Assist (BAS) on (Y page 62) or of BAS PLUS on (Y page 62).

High-performance brake system for AMG vehicles The high-performance brake system is installed only on the CL 63 AMG and CL 65 AMG. G WARNING