2008 Mercedes-benz CLK Class Coupe Owners Manual

control 5. This will increase the likeli- hood of the hand-held remote control sending a faster and more accurate sig- nal to the integrated remote control.

앫 While performing step 3, hold

hand-held remote control 5 at differ- ent lengths and angles from the signal transmitter button (2, 3 or 4) you are programming. Attempt varying an- gles at the distance of 2 to 5 in (5 to 12 cm) away or the same angle at varying distances.

306

앫 If another hand-held remote control is available for the same device, try the programming steps again using that other hand-held remote control. Make sure new batteries are in the hand-held remote control before beginning the procedure.

앫 Straighten the antenna wire from the

garage door opener assembly. This may help improve transmitting and/or receiving signals.

i Certain types of garage door openers are in- compatible with the integrated remote control. If you should experience further difficulties with programming the integrated remote control, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, or call Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA only) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.

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 interfer-

ence, 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.

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

Operation

The first 1000 miles (1500 km) Driving instructions At the gas station Engine compartment Tires and wheels Winter driving Maintenance Vehicle care

307

Operation The first 1000 miles (1500 km)

In the “Operation” section you will find detailed information on operating, maintaining and caring for your vehicle.

308

After 1000 miles (1500 km), you may gradually increase vehicle and engine speeds to the permissible maximum.

! Additional instructions for AMG vehicles: 앫 During the first 1000 miles (1500 km), do not exceed a speed of 85 mph (140 km/h).

앫 During this period, avoid engine speeds

above 4500 rpm in each gear. 앫 Shift gears at the correct time. All of the above instructions, as may apply to your vehicle type, also apply when driving the first 1000 miles (1500 km) after the engine or the rear differential has been replaced.

i Always obey applicable speed limits.

The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satis- fied you will be with its performance later on. 앫 Drive your vehicle during the first

1000 miles (1500 km) at varying but moderate vehicle and engine speeds. 앫 During this period, avoid heavy loads

(full throttle driving) and excessive engine speeds (no more than 2/3 of maximum rpm in each gear).

앫 Shift gears in a timely manner. 앫 Avoid accelerating by kickdown. 앫 Do not attempt to slow the vehicle

down by shifting to a lower gear using the gear selector lever.

앫 Select positions 3, 2 or 1 only when driving at moderate speeds (for hill driving).

앫 Select mode C as the preferred shift

program (컄 page 178) for the first 1000 miles (1500 km).

왔 Driving instructions Drive sensibly – save fuel

Fuel consumption, to a great extent, de- pends on driving habits and operating conditions. To save fuel you should: 앫 Keep tires at the recommended tire

inflation pressures.

앫 Remove unnecessary loads. 앫 Allow engine to warm up under low

load use.

앫 Avoid frequent acceleration and

deceleration.

앫 Have all maintenance work performed

at the intervals specified in the Maintenance Booklet and as required by the Maintenance System. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. 앫 CLK coupe: Remove roof rack when not

in use.

Fuel consumption is also increased by driving in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic, on short trips and in hilly area.

Operation Driving instructions

Drinking and driving

Pedals

Warning!

Warning!

Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and driving are very dangerous combina- tions. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect your reflexes, perceptions and judgment.

The possibility of a serious or even fatal ac- cident 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.

Make sure absolutely no objects are ob- structing the pedals’ range of movement. Keep the driver’s footwell clear of all obsta- cles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure the pedals still have sufficient clearance.

During sudden driving or braking maneu- vers, the objects could get caught between or beneath the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury.

309

Operation Driving instructions

Power assistance

Warning!

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 ve- hicle.

Brakes

Warning!

After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through wa- ter deep enough to wet brake components, the first braking action may be somewhat reduced and increased pedal pressure may be necessary to obtain expected braking ef- fect. Maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.

310

Resting your foot on the brake pedal will cause excessive and premature wear of the brake pads.

It can also result in the brakes overheating, thereby significantly reducing their effec- tiveness. It may not be possible to stop the vehicle in sufficient time to avoid an acci- dent.

! Because the ESP® operates automatically, the engine must be shut off (SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1 or KEYLESS-GO start/stop button* in position 0 or 1) when 앫 the parking brake is being tested on a brake

test dynamometer

앫 the vehicle is being towed with the front axle

raised

Active braking action through the ESP® may oth- erwise seriously damage the brake system.

To help prevent brake disk corrosion after driving on wet road surfaces (particularly salted roads), it is advisable to brake the vehicle with considerable force prior to parking. The heat generated serves to dry the brakes.

If your brake system is normally only sub- ject to moderate loads, you should occa- sionally test the effectiveness of the brakes by applying above-normal braking pressure at higher speeds. This will also enhance the grip of the brake pads.

Warning!

Make sure not to endanger any other road users when carrying out these braking maneuvers.

Refer to the description of the Brake Assist System (BAS) (컄 page 92). Brake pad wear or a leak in the system may be the reason for low brake fluid level in the reservoir. The brake fluid level in the reservoir may be too low if the brake warning lamp in the instrument cluster comes on and an acoustic warning sounds although the parking brake is released (컄 page 380).

Observe additional messages in the multi- function display that may appear (컄 page 404). Have the brake system inspected immediately. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. All checks and service work on the brake system should be carried out by qualified technicians only. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Only install brake pads and brake fluid rec- ommended by Mercedes-Benz.

Warning!

If other than recommended brake pads are installed, or other than recommended brake fluid is 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.

! When driving down long and steep grades, relieve the load on the brakes by shifting into a lower gear to use the engine’s braking power. This helps prevent overheating of the brakes and reduces brake pad wear.

After hard braking, it is advisable to drive on for some time, rather than immediately park, so that the air stream can cool down the brakes faster.

Operation Driving instructions

High-performance brake system (CLK 63 AMG only) The high-performance brake system is designed to operate under the extremely high operating demands required to accommodate the performance capabili- ties of the vehicle. The brakes may produce a squeaking-type noise depending on the 앫 vehicle speed 앫 brake force applied 앫 ambient conditions, e.g. temperature

and humidity

As with any brake system, the wear of indi- vidual brake system components such as brake pads or discs strongly depends on your driving style and the conditions under which you operate the vehicle. Thus, a driv- ing style calling for high demand braking will cause your vehicle’s brakes to wear more quickly.

311

Operation Driving instructions

Warning!

Driving off

New vehicle brake pads and discs, and replacement brake pads and discs may take several hundred miles of driving until they provide optimum braking efficiency. Until that time, you may need to use increased brake pedal pressure while braking. Please be aware of this and adjust your driving and braking accordingly during this break-in period.

Excessive high demand braking will cause correspondingly high brake wear. Please be attentive to the brake warning lamp in the instrument cluster and brake condition mes- sages in the multifunction display. Especially for high performance driving, it is important to maintain and have the brake system checked regularly.

Apply the brakes to test them briefly after driving off. Perform this procedure only when the road is clear of other traffic. Warm up the engine gradually. Do not place full load on the engine until the oper- ating temperature has been reached.

! When driving off on a slippery surface, do not allow a drive wheel to spin for an extended period with the ESP® switched off. Doing so may cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

! Simultaneously depressing the accelerator pedal and applying the brakes reduces engine performance and causes premature brake wear and drivetrain wear.

Parking

Warning!

Do not park this vehicle in areas where com- bustible materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

To reduce the risk of personal injury, or damage to the vehicle or the vehicle drivetrain, as a result of vehicle movement, always do the following before turning off the engine and leaving the vehicle: 앫 Keep right foot firmly on brake pedal. 앫 Firmly depress parking brake pedal. 앫 Move the gear selector lever to

position P.

앫 Slowly release brake pedal. 앫 When parked on an incline, always turn the front wheels towards the road curb.

312

앫 Turn the SmartKey or the SmartKey with

Tires

KEYLESS-GO* to starter switch position 0 and remove, or press KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button.

앫 Take the SmartKey or the SmartKey with

KEYLESS-GO* with you and lock the vehicle when leaving.

Warning!

Operation Driving instructions

The treadwear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread.

Warning!

If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that possi- ble damage to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on the hazard warning flash- ers, carefully slow down, and drive with cau- tion to an area which is a safe distance from the road.

Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires appear unsafe, have the vehicle towed to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or tire dealer for repairs.

Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These indicators are located in six places on the tread circumference and be- come visible at a tread depth of approxi- mately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), at which point the tire is considered worn and should be replaced.

Although the applicable federal motor vehicle safety laws consider a tire to be worn when the treadwear indicators (TWI) become visible at approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), we recommend that you do not al- low your tires to wear down to that level. As tread depth approaches 1/8 in (3 mm), the adhesion properties on a wet road are sharply reduced.

Depending upon the weather and/or road surface (conditions), the tire traction varies widely.

Specified tire inflation pressures must be maintained. This applies particularly if the tires are subject to extreme operating conditions (e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, high ambient temperatures).

313

Operation Driving instructions

Warning!

Tire traction

The safe speed on a wet, snow covered or icy road is always lower than on a dry road. You should pay particular attention to the condition of the road whenever the outside temperatures are close to the freezing point.

Warning!

If ice has formed on the road, tire traction will be substantially reduced. Under such weather conditions, drive, steer and brake with extreme caution.

Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You may lose control of the vehicle. Continued driving with a flat tire or driving at high speed with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-up and possibly a fire.

For more information, see “Tires and wheels” (컄 page 331).

Hydroplaning

Depending on the depth of the water layer on the road, hydroplaning may occur, even at low speeds and with new tires. Reduce vehicle speed, avoid track grooves in the road and apply brakes cautiously in the rain.

314

Mercedes-Benz recommends winter tires (컄 page 362) with a minimum tread depth of approximately 1/6 in (4 mm) on all four wheels for the winter season to ensure normal balanced handling characteristics. On packed snow, they can reduce your stopping distance compared to summer tires. Stopping distance, however, is still considerably greater than when the road is not covered with snow or ice. Exercise appropriate caution.

! Avoid spinning of a drive wheel. This may cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Tire speed rating

Regardless of the tire speed rating, local speed limits should be obeyed. Use prudent driving speeds appropriate to prevailing conditions.

An electronic speed limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding a speed of 앫 CLK 350, CLK 550:

130 mph (210 km/h)

앫 CLK 63 AMG:

155 mph (250 km/h)

Warning!

앫 CLK 63 AMG with increased top

Even when permitted by law, never operate a vehicle at speeds greater than the maxi- mum speed rating of the tires.

Exceeding the maximum speed for which tires are rated can lead to sudden tire fail- ure, causing loss of vehicle control and pos- sibly resulting in an accident and/or personal injury and possible death, for you and for others.

speed*: 174 mph (280 km/h)

The factory equipped tires on your vehicle may have a tire speed rating above the maximum speed permitted by the electronic speed limiter. Make sure your tires have the required tire speed rating as specified for your vehicle in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 482), for example when purchasing new tires.

Operation Driving instructions

For Information on how to identify the tire speed rating on a tire’s sidewall, see “Tire size designation, load and speed rating” (컄 page 349). If you are uncertain about the correct read- ing of the information given on a tire’s side- wall, any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to assist you.

i For information on tire speed rating for win- ter tires, see “Winter tires” (컄 page 362). For additional general information on tire speed markings on tire sidewall, see “Tire speed rating” (컄 page 351).

315

Operation Driving instructions

Winter driving instructions

The most important rule for slippery or icy roads is to drive sensibly and to avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and steering maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control system under such conditions. When the vehicle is in danger of skidding, move gear selector lever to position N. Try to keep the vehicle under control by cor- rective steering action.

i For information on driving with snow chains, see “Snow chains” (컄 page 363).

Road salts and chemicals can adversely af- fect braking efficiency. Increased pedal force may become necessary to produce the normal braking effect. Depressing the brake pedal periodically when traveling at length on salt-strewn roads can bring road-salt-impaired braking efficiency back to normal. If the vehicle is parked after being driven on salt-treated roads, the braking efficien- cy should be tested as soon as possible af- ter driving is resumed.

Warning!

If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow, make sure snow is kept clear of the exhaust pipe and from around the vehicle with the engine running. Otherwise, deadly carbon monox- ide (CO) gases may enter vehicle interior re- sulting in unconsciousness and death.

To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, open a window slightly on the side of the ve- hicle not facing the wind.

Warning!

Warning!

Warning!

On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehi- cle control. Your vehicle’s ABS will not pre- vent this type of control loss.

Make sure not to endanger any other road users when carrying out these braking ma- neuvers.

The outside temperature indicator is not de- signed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. In- dicated temperatures just above the freez- ing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice.

For more information, see “Winter driving” (컄 page 362).

316

Standing water

Passenger compartment

! Do not drive through flooded areas or water of unknown depth. Before driving through water, determine its depth. Never accelerate before driving into water. The bow wave could force wa- ter into the engine and auxiliary equipment, thus damaging them. If you must drive through standing water, drive slowly to prevent water from entering the pas- senger compartment or the engine compart- ment. Water in these areas could cause damage to electrical components or wiring of the engine or transmission, or could result in water being in- gested by the engine through the air intake, causing severe internal engine damage. Any such damage is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Warning!

Always fasten items being carried as securely as possible.

In an accident, during hard braking or sud- den maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle, and cause injury to vehicle occupants unless the items are securely fastened in the vehicle.

The trunk is the preferred place to carry objects.

Driving abroad

Abroad, there is an extensive Mercedes-Benz service network at your disposal. If you plan to drive into areas which are not listed in the index of your Mercedes-Benz Center directory, you should request pertinent information from an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Operation Driving instructions

Control and operation of radio trans- mitters

COMAND*, radio and telephone*

Warning!

Please do not forget that your primary re- sponsibility is to drive the vehicle safely. Only operate the COMAND (Cockpit Man- agement and Data System), radio or tele- phone1 if road, weather and traffic conditions permit.

Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of 44 feet (approximately 14 m) every second.

1 Observe all legal requirements.

317

Operation Driving instructions

Telephones* and two-way radios

Catalytic converter

Warning!

Never operate radio transmitters equipped with a built-in or attached antenna (i.e. with- out being connected to an external antenna) from inside the vehicle while the engine is running. Doing so could lead to a malfunc- tion of the vehicle’s electronic system, pos- sibly resulting in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Radio transmitters, such as a mobile phone or a citizens band unit should only be used inside the vehicle if they are con- nected to an antenna that is installed on the outside of the vehicle. Refer to the radio transmitter operation in- structions regarding use of an external antenna.

Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with monolithic-type catalytic converters, an important element in conjunction with the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial con- trol of the pollutants in the exhaust emis- sions. Keep your vehicle in proper operating condition by following our recommended maintenance instructions as outlined in your Maintenance Booklet.

! To prevent damage to the catalytic converters, only use premium unleaded gasoline in this vehicle. Any noticeable irregularities in engine operation should be repaired promptly. Otherwise, exces- sive unburned fuel may reach the catalytic con- verter, causing it to overheat and potentially start a fire.

Warning!

As with any vehicle, do not idle, park or op- erate this vehicle in areas where combusti- ble materials such as grass, hay, or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

Emission control

Certain systems of the engine serve to keep the toxic components of the exhaust gases within permissible limits required by law. These systems, of course, will function properly only when maintained strictly ac- cording to factory specifications. Any ad- justments to the engine should therefore be carried out only by qualified Mercedes-Benz Center authorized techni- cians.

318

Coolant temperature

During severe operating conditions and stop-and-go city traffic, the coolant temperature may rise close to approximately 248°F (120°C). The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature over 248°F (120°C). Doing so may cause serious engine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Operation Driving instructions

Warning!

앫 Driving when your engine is overheated can cause some fluids, which may have leaked into the engine compartment, to catch fire. You could be seriously burned.

앫 Steam from an overheated engine can cause serious burns which can occur just by opening the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it.

Turn off the engine, get out of the vehicle and do not stand near the vehicle until the engine has cooled down.

Engine adjustments should not be altered in any way. Moreover, the specified service jobs must be carried out regularly accord- ing to Mercedes-Benz servicing require- ments. For details refer to the Maintenance Booklet.

Warning!

Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause un- consciousness and lead to 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 with at least one window fully open at all times.

319

Operation At the gas station

Refueling

Warning!

i In cases where the central locking system is not releasing the fuel filler flap, or the opening mechanism is clamping, notify Roadside Assis- tance or an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Gasoline is highly flammable and poisonous. It burns violently and can cause serious per- sonal injury.

Never allow sparks, flame or smoking mate- rials near gasoline!

Turn off the engine before refueling.

Whenever you are around gasoline, avoid in- haling fumes and skin or clothing contact, extinguish all smoking materials.

Direct skin contact with fuels and the inha- lation of fuel vapors can damage to your health.

The fuel filler flap is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle towards the rear. Locking/unlocking the vehicle with the SmartKey or the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* automatically locks/un- locks the fuel filler flap.

320

1 To open the fuel filler flap 2 To insert the fuel filler cap

왘 Turn off the engine 왘 Vehicles with SmartKey: Remove the

SmartKey from the starter switch. Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO*: Open the driver’s door (with driver’s door open, starter switch is now in position 0, same as with SmartKey removed from starter switch). The driver’s door then can be closed again.

왘 Open the fuel filler flap by pushing at

the point indicated by arrow 1. The fuel filler flap springs open.

왘 Turn the fuel cap counterclockwise and hold on to it until possible pressure is released.

왘 Take off the fuel cap and set it in the di- rection of arrow 2 in the recess on the fuel filler flap. To prevent fuel vapors from escaping into open air, fully insert the filler noz- zle unit.

왘 Only fill your tank until the filler nozzle

unit cuts out – do not top off or overfill.

Operation At the gas station

Warning!

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

왘 Replace the fuel cap by turning it clockwise until it audibly engages.

i Make sure to close the fuel filler flap before locking your vehicle as the flap locking pin prevents closing after you have locked the vehicle. 왘 Close the fuel filler flap.

i Only use premium unleaded gasoline with a minimum Posted Octane Rating of 91 (average of 96 RON/86 MON). Information on gasoline quality can normally be found on the fuel pump. Please contact gas sta- tion personnel in case labels on the pump cannot be found. For more information on gasoline, see “Premium unleaded gasoline” (컄 page 492), or the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet (USA only), or contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

i Leaving the engine running and the fuel cap open can cause the ú malfunction indicator lamp (USA only) or the ± malfunction indica- tor lamp (Canada only) to illuminate. More information can be found in the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 381).

321

Operation At the gas station

Check regularly and before a long trip

Coolant For normal replenishing, use water (pota- ble water quality). For more information, see “Coolant” (컄 page 328) and see “Fu- els, coolants, lubricants, etc.” (컄 page 489).

Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning system* For more information on filling up the washer reservoir, see “Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system*” (컄 page 330).

Brake fluid Removing fuse box cover, see (컄 page 473).

Engine oil level For more information on engine oil, see “Engine oil” (컄 page 325).

Engine compartment (CLK 550, example) 1 Coolant level 2 Brake fluid (fuse box cover removed) 3 Windshield washer and headlamp

cleaning system*

i Opening the hood, see (컄 page 323).

! If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness and leaks immediately. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately. Do not add brake fluid as this will not solve the problem. For more information, see also “Practi- cal hints” (컄 page 380).

Vehicle lighting Check function and cleanliness. For more information on replacing light bulbs, see “Replacing bulbs” (컄 page 443). For more information, see “Exterior lamp switch” (컄 page 55).

Tire inflation pressure For more information, see “Checking tire inflation pressure” (컄 page 341).

322

왔 Engine compartment Hood

Warning!

Opening

Warning!

Do not pull the release lever while the vehi- cle is in motion. Otherwise the hood could be forced open by passing air flow.

This could cause the hood to come loose and injure you and/or others.

If you see flames or smoke coming from the engine compartment, or if the coolant tem- perature indicator indicates that the engine is overheated, do not open the hood. Move away from vehicle and do not open the hood until the engine has cooled. If necessary, call the fire department.

Warning!

You could be injured when the hood is open - even when the engine is turned off.

Parts of the engine can become very hot. To prevent burns, let the engine cool off com- pletely before touching any components on the vehicle. Comply with all relevant safety precautions.

Operation Engine compartment

Warning!

To help prevent personal injury, stay clear of moving parts when the hood is open and the engine is running.

The radiator fan may continue to run for approximately 30 seconds or even restart after the engine has been turned off. Stay clear of fan blades.

Warning!

The engine is equipped with a transistorized ignition system. Because of the high voltage it is dangerous to touch any components (ignition coils, spark plug sockets, diagnos- tic socket) of the ignition system 앫 with the engine running 앫 while starting the engine 앫 if the ignition is “on” and the engine is

turned manually.

323

Operation Engine compartment

The hood lock release lever is located to the left of the steering wheel under the dashboard.

2 Lever for opening the hood 왘 Push lever 2 under the hood upwards. 왘 Pull up on the hood and then release it.

The hood will be automatically held open at shoulder height by gas-filled struts.

1 Hood lock release lever 왘 Pull lever 1 downwards.

The hood is unlocked.

! To avoid damage to the windshield wipers or hood, never open the hood if the wiper arms are folded forward away from the windshield.

324

Closing

Warning!

When closing the hood, use extreme caution not to catch hands or fingers.

Be careful that you do not close the hood on anyone.

Make sure the hood is securely engaged be- fore driving off. Do not continue driving if the hood can no longer engage after an acci- dent, for example. The hood could otherwise come loose while the vehicle is in motion and injure you and/or others.

왘 Let the hood drop from a height of

approximately 1 ft (30 cm). The hood will lock audibly.

왘 Check to make sure the hood is fully

closed. If you can raise the hood at a point above the headlamps, then it is not properly closed. Open it again and let it drop with somewhat greater force.

Checking engine oil level When checking the oil level 앫 the vehicle must be parked on level

ground.

앫 with the engine at operating tempera- ture yet, the vehicle must have been stationary for at least 5 minutes with the engine turned off.

앫 with the engine not at operating tem- perature, the vehicle must have been stationary for at least 30 minutes with the engine turned off.

Engine oil

The amount of oil your engine needs will depend on a number of factors, including driving style. Higher oil consumption can occur when 앫 the vehicle is new 앫 the vehicle is driven frequently at

higher engine speeds

Engine oil consumption checks should only be made after the vehicle break-in period.

! Do not use any special lubricant additives, as these may damage the drive assemblies. Us- ing special additives not approved by Mercedes-Benz may cause damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. More information on this subject is available at any Mercedes-Benz Center.

Operation Engine compartment

CLK 350 / CLK 550
1 Oil dipstick 2 Upper (max) mark 3 Lower (min) mark

컄컄

325

Operation Engine compartment

컄컄

CLK 63 AMG 1 Oil dipstick 2 Upper (max) mark 3 Lower (min) mark

326

To check the engine oil level with the oil dipstick, do the following: 왘 Open the hood (컄 page 323). 왘 Pull out oil dipstick 1. 왘 Wipe oil dipstick 1 clean. 왘 Fully insert oil dipstick 1 into the

dipstick guide tube.

왘 Pull out oil dipstick 1 again after

approximately 3 seconds to obtain ac- curate reading. The oil level is correct when it is be- tween the lower (min) mark 3 and upper (max) mark 2 of oil dipstick 1.

i CLK 350: The filling quantity between the upper and lower marks on the oil dipstick is approximately 2.1 US qt. (2.0 l). CLK 550 / CLK 63 AMG: The filling quantity between the upper and lower marks on the oil dipstick is approximately 1.6 US qt. (1.5 l). 왘 If necessary, add engine oil.

For adding engine oil, see “Adding en- gine oil” (컄 page 327).

For more information on engine oil, see “Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.” (컄 page 489). For more information on messages in the multifunction display concerning engine oil, see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 409).

Adding engine oil

! Only use approved engine oils and oil filters required for vehicles with Maintenance System. For a listing of approved engine oils and oil fil- ters, refer to the Factory Approved Service Prod- ucts pamphlet (USA only) in your vehicle literature portfolio, or contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Using engine oils and oil filters of specification other than those expressly required for the Maintenance System, or changing of oil and oil filter at change intervals longer than those called for by the Maintenance System will result in engine or emission control system damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

CLK 350 / CLK 550
1 Filler cap

CLK 63 AMG 1 Filler cap

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Unscrew filler cap 1 from filler neck. 왘 Add engine oil as required. Be careful

not to overfill with oil.

Be careful not to spill any oil when adding. Avoid environmental damage caused by oil entering the ground or water.

! Excess oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and emis- sion control system not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. 왘 Screw filler cap 1 back on filler neck. More information on engine oil can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 489) and (컄 page 491).

Transmission fluid level

The transmission fluid level does not need to be checked. If you notice transmission fluid loss or gear shifting malfunctions, have an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center check the automatic transmission.

327

Operation Engine compartment

Coolant

The engine coolant is a mixture of water and anticorrosion/antifreeze. When checking the coolant level, 앫 the vehicle must be parked on level

ground

앫 the coolant temperature must be be-

low 158°F (70°C)

앫 Using a rag, slowly open the cap approx- imately 1/2 turn to relieve excess pres- sure. If opened immediately, scalding hot fluid and steam will be blown out un- der pressure.

앫 Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine

parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene gly- col which may burn if it comes into con- tact with hot engine parts.

Warning!

The coolant expansion tank is located on the passenger side of the engine compartment.

In order to avoid potentially serious burns: 앫 Use extreme caution when opening the hood if there are any signs of steam or coolant leaking from the cooling system, or if the coolant temperature indicator indicates that the coolant is overheated. 앫 Do not remove pressure cap on coolant reservoir if the coolant temperature is above 158°F (70°C). Allow the coolant to cool down before removing cap. The coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is under pressure.

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1 Coolant expansion tank 2 Cap

왘 Using a rag, turn cap 2 slowly

approximately one half turn counter- clockwise to release any excess pressure.

왘 Continue turning the cap 2 counter-

clockwise and remove it.

The coolant level is correct if the level 앫 for cold coolant: reaches the marking

(plastic bridge) inside the reservoir 앫 for warm coolant: is approximately

0.6 in (1.5 cm) higher

왘 Add coolant as required. 왘 Replace and tighten cap 2. More information on coolant can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 494).

Battery

Your vehicle’s battery is located in the engine compartment on the right-hand side (컄 page 464). The battery should always be sufficiently charged in order to achieve its rated service life. Refer to Maintenance Booklet for battery maintenance intervals. If you use your vehicle mostly for short-distance trips, you will need to have the battery charge checked more frequently. When replacing the battery, always use batteries approved by Mercedes-Benz. If you do not intend to operate your vehicle for an extended period of time, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center about steps you need to observe.

Warning!

Observe all safety instructions and precau- tions when handling automotive batteries.

Risk of explosion.

Fire, open flames and smoking are prohibited when handling batteries. Avoid creating sparks.

Battery acid is caustic. Do not allow it to come into contact with skin, eyes or clothing.

Wear suitable protective cloth- ing, especially gloves, apron and faceguard.

Operation Engine compartment

Wear eye protection.

Rinse any acid spills immediate- ly with clear water. Contact a physician if necessary.

Keep children away.

Follow the instructions in this Operator’s Manual.

Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Recycling of batteries is the preferred method of disposal. Many states require sellers of batteries to accept old batteries for recycling.

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! Only use washer fluid which is suitable for plastic lenses. Improper washer fluid can dam- age the plastic lenses of the headlamps.

For more information, see “Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system*” (컄 page 496).

Operation Engine compartment

Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system*

The windshield washer reservoir is located in the engine compartment.

During all seasons, add MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “MB SummerFit” to water. Premix the windshield washer fluid in a suitable container.

Warning!

Washer solvent/antifreeze is highly flam- mable. Do not spill washer solvent/antifreeze on hot engine parts, because it may ignite and burn. You could be seriously burned.

왘 Refill the reservoir with MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “MB SummerFit” and water (or commercially available premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze, depending on am- bient temperatures).

! Always use washer solvent/antifreeze where temperatures may fall below the freezing point. Failure to do so could result in damage to the washer system/reservoir.

1 Washer fluid reservoir cap Fluid for the windshield washer system and the headlamp cleaning system* is supplied from the windshield washer reservoir. It has a capacity of: 앫 3.2 US qt (3.0 l) in vehicles with wind-

shield washer system

앫 6.4 US qt (6.0 l) in vehicles with heated windshield washer system* and head- lamp cleaning system*.

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왔 Tires and wheels Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for information on tested and recommended rims and tires for summer and winter operation. They can also offer advice concerning tire service and purchase.

Warning!

Replace rims or tires with the same designa- tion, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further informa- tion. If incorrectly sized rims and tires are mounted: 앫 The wheel brakes or suspension

components can be damaged.

앫 The operating clearance of the wheels and the tires may no longer be correct.

Warning!

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

When replacing rims, only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the particular rim type. Failure to do so can result in the bolts loosening and possibly an accident.

Retreaded tires are not tested or recom- mended by Mercedes-Benz, since previous damage cannot always be recognized on re- treads. The operating safety of the vehicle cannot be assured when such tires are used.

Operation Tires and wheels

Important guidelines

앫 Only use sets of tires and rims of the

same type and make.

앫 Tires must be of the correct size for the

rim.

앫 Break in new tires for approximately

60 miles (100 km) at moderate speeds.

앫 Regularly check the tires and rims for

damage. Dented or bent rims can cause tire inflation pressure loss and damage to the tire beads.

앫 If vehicle is heavily loaded, check tire

inflation pressure and correct as required.

앫 Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths of less than 1/8 in (3 mm).

앫 When replacing individual tires, you should mount new tires on the front wheels first (on vehicles with same-sized wheels all around).

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Tire inspection Every time you check your tire inflation pressure, you should also inspect your tires for the following: 앫 excessive treadwear (컄 page 333) 앫 cord or fabric showing through the

tire’s rubber

Life of tire The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying factors including but not limited to: 앫 Driving style 앫 Tire inflation pressure 앫 Distance driven

앫 bumps, bulges, cuts, cracks or splits in

the tread or side of the tire

Warning!

Tires and spare tire should be replaced after 6 years, regardless of the remaining tread.

Replace the tire if you find any of the above conditions. Make sure you also inspect the spare tire periodically for condition and inflation. Spare tires will age and become worn over time even if never used, and thus should be inspected and replaced when necessary.

Operation Tires and wheels

Tire care and maintenance

Warning!

Regularly check the tires for damage. Dam- aged tires can cause tire inflation pressure loss. As a result, you could lose control of your vehicle.

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. For more informa- tion on checking tire inflation pressure see “Recommended tire inflation pressure” (컄 page 339).

332

Tread depth Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths of less than 1/8 in (3 mm). Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These indicators are located in six places on the tread circumference and become visible at a tread depth of approx- imately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), at which point the tire is considered worn and should be replaced. Recommended minimum tire tread depth: 앫 Summer tires 1/8 in (3 mm) 앫 Winter tires 1/6 in (4 mm)

Warning!

Although the applicable federal motor safety laws consider a tire to be worn when the treadwear indicators (TWI) become visible at approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), we recom- mend that you do not allow your tires

to wear down to that level. As tread depth approaches 1/8 in (3 mm), the adhesion properties on a wet road are sharply reduced.

Depending upon the weather and/or road surface (conditions), the tire traction varies widely.

Operation Tires and wheels

Storing tires

! Keep unmounted tires in a cool, dry place with as little exposure to light as possible. Pro- tect tires from contact with oil, grease and gasoline.

Cleaning tires

! Never use a round nozzle to power wash tires. The intense jet of water can result in damage to the tire. Always replace a damaged tire.

1 TWI (Tread Wear Indicator) The treadwear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread.

333

Operation Tires and wheels

Direction of rotation

Loading the vehicle

Unidirectional tires offer added advan- tages, such as better hydroplaning perfor- mance. To benefit, however, you must make sure the tires rotate in the direction specified. An arrow on the sidewall indicates the intended direction of rotation (spinning) of the tire.

i Spare wheels may be mounted against the direction of rotation (spinning) even with a unidi- rectional tire for temporary use only until the reg- ular drive wheel has been repaired or replaced. Always observe and follow applicable temporary use restrictions and speed limitations indicated on the spare wheel.

Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry. 1) The Tire and Loading Information

placard can be found on the driver’s door B-pillar. This Tire and Loading Information placard tells you important information about the number of peo- ple that can be in the vehicle and the total weight that can be carried in the vehicle. It also contains information on the proper size and recommended tire inflation pressures for the original equipment tires on your vehicle.

2) The certification label, also found on

the driver’s door B-pillar tells you about the gross weight capacity of your vehi- cle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. The certification label also tells you about the front and rear axle weight capacity, called the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). The GAWR

334

is the total allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). Never exceed the GVWR or GAWR for either the front axle or rear axle.

1 Driver’s door B-pillar Following is a discussion on how to work with the information contained on the Tire and Loading Information placard with regards to loading your vehicle.

Tire and Loading Information

Tire and Loading Information placard

i Data shown on Tire and Loading Information placard example are for illustration purposes only. Load limit data is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustration below. Refer to Tire and Loading Information placard on vehicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

Warning!

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

1 Load limit information on the Tire and

Loading Information placard

The Tire and Loading Information placard showing the load limit information is located on the driver’s door B-pillar.

Operation Tires and wheels

왘 Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kilograms or XXX lbs.” on the Tire and Loading Information placard. The combined weight of all occupants, cargo/luggage and trailer tongue load (if applicable) should never exceed the weight referenced in that statement.

Seating capacity The seating capacity gives you important information on the number of occupants that can be in the vehicle. Observe front and rear seating capacity. The Tire and Loading Information placard showing the seating capacity is located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 334).

335

Operation Tires and wheels

i Data shown on Tire and Loading Information placard example are for illustration purposes only. Seating data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustration below. Refer to Tire and Loading Information placard on vehicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

Step 1
왘 Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s Tire and Loading Information placard.

Step 5
왘 Determine the combined weight of

luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4.

Step 2
왘 Determine the combined weight of the

Step 6 (if applicable) 왘 If your vehicle will be towing a trailer,

driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

Step 3
왘 Subtract the combined weight of the

driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX lbs.

Step 4
왘 The resulting figure equals the avail-

able amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be five 150 lbs passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs (1400-750 (5 x150) = 650 lbs).

load from your trailer will be trans- ferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle (컄 page 338).

The following table shows examples on how to calculate total and cargo load capacities with varying seating configura- tions and number and size of occupants. The following examples use a load limit of 1500 lbs. This is for illustration purposes only. Make sure you are using the actual load limit for your vehicle stated on the vehicle’s Tire and Loading Information placard (컄 page 335).

1 Seating capacity information on the Tire and Loading Information placard.

Steps for determining correct load limit The following steps have been developed as required of all manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”.

336

Example Combined weight limit of occupants and cargo from Tire and Loading Information placard

Number of occupants (driver and passengers)

Seating configu- ration

Occupants weight

Combined weight of all occupants

630 lbs

1500 lbs

1500 lbs

1500 lbs

front: 2

rear: 2

front: 1
rear: 2

front:1

Occupant 1: 150 lbs Occupant 2: 180 lbs Occupant 3: 160 lbs Occupant 4: 140 lbs Occupant 1: 200 lbs Occupant 2: 190 lbs Occupant 3: 150 lbs Occupant 1: 150 lbs

The higher the weight of all occupants, the less cargo and luggage load capacity is available. For more information, see “Trailer tongue load” (컄 page 338).

Operation Tires and wheels

Available cargo/luggage and trailer tongue weight (total load limit weight from Tire and Loading Information placard minus combined weight of all occupants) 1500 lbs - 630 lbs = 870 lbs

540 lbs

1500 lbs - 540 lbs = 960 lbs

150 lbs

1500 lbs - 150 lbs = 1350 lbs

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Operation Tires and wheels

Certification label Even after careful determination of the combined weight of all occupants, cargo and the trailer tongue load (if applicable) (컄 page 338) as to not exceed the permis- sible load limit, you must make sure your vehicle never exceeds the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. You can obtain the GVWR and GAWR from the certification label. The cer- tification label can be found on the driver’s door B-pillar, see “Technical data” (컄 page 478).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the trailer tongue load (컄 page 338) must never exceed the GVWR. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The to- tal allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). To assure that your vehicle does not ex- ceed the maximum permissible weight limits (GVWR and GAWR for front and rear axle), have the loaded vehicle (including driver, passengers and all cargo and, if applicable, trailer fully loaded) weighed on a suitable commercial scale.

Trailer tongue load The tongue load of any trailer is an impor- tant weight to measure because it affects the load you can carry in your vehicle. If a trailer is towed, the tongue load must be added to the weight of all occupants riding and any cargo you are carrying in the vehicle. The tongue load typically is ten percent of the trailer weight and every- thing loaded in it. Your Mercedes-Benz has been designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. Mercedes-Benz does not recom- mend trailer towing with your vehicle.

338

Recommended tire inflation pressure

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being over- heated.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

Your vehicle is equipped with a Tire and Loading Information placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 334). The tire inflation pressure should be checked regularly and should only be ad- justed on cold tires. The tires can be con- sidered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). Follow recommended cold tire inflation pressures listed on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver’s door B-pillar.

Operation Tires and wheels

Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best handling, tread life and riding comfort. In addition to the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver’s door B-pillar, also consult the tire inflation pressure label (if available) on the fuel filler flap (컄 page 320) for any additional infor- mation pertaining to special driving situa- tions. For more information, see “Important notes on tire inflation pressure” (컄 page 340).

i Data shown on Tire and Loading Information placard example are for illustration purposes only. Tire data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustration below. Refer to Tire and Loading Information placard on vehicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

339

Operation Tires and wheels

1 Tire and Loading Information placard with recommended cold tire inflation pressures

The Tire and Loading Information placard lists the recommended cold tire inflation pressures for maximum loaded vehicle weight. The tire inflation pressures listed apply to the tires installed as original equipment.

340

Important notes on tire inflation pressure

Warning!

If the tire inflation pressure drops repeatedly: 앫 Check the tires for punctures from

foreign objects.

앫 Check to see whether air is leaking from

the valves or from around the rim.

Tire temperature and tire inflation pressure are also increased while driving, depending on the driving speed and the tire load. If you will be driving your vehicle at high speeds of 100 mph (160 km/h) or higher, where it is legal and conditions allow, consult the tire inflation pressure label on the inside of the fuel filler flap (if available) on how to adjust the cold tire inflation pressure. If you do not adjust the tire infla- tion pressure, excessive heat can build up and result in sudden tire failure.

If your vehicle is not equipped with the tire inflation pressure label on the inside of the fuel filler flap, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for proper tire infla- tion pressure.

i Driving comfort may be reduced when the tire inflation pressure is adjusted to the value for speeds above 100 mph (160 km/h) as specified on the tire inflation pressure label (if available) located on the inside of the fuel filler flap.

Be sure to readjust the tire inflation pressure for normal driving speeds. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire inflation pressure. Some vehicles may have supplemental tire inflation pressure information for vehicle loads less than the maximum loaded vehi- cle condition. If such information is provid- ed, it can be found on the tire inflation pressure label (if available) located on the inside of the fuel filler flap. Tire inflation pressure changes by approxi- mately 1.5 psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air temperature change. Keep this in mind

when checking tire inflation pressure where the temperature is different from the outside temperature.

Checking tire inflation pressure

Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold. The tires can be considered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than one mile (1.6 km). If you check the tire inflation pressure when the tires are warm (the vehicle has been driven for several miles or sitting less than three hours), the reading will be approximately 4 psi (0.3 bar) higher than the cold reading. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the specified cold tire in- flation pressure. Otherwise, the tire will be underinflated.

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being over- heated.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

Operation Tires and wheels

Checking tire inflation pressure manually Follow the steps below to achieve correct tire inflation pressure: 왘 Remove the cap from the valve on one

tire.

왘 Firmly press a tire gauge onto the

valve.

왘 Read tire inflation pressure on tire gauge and check against the recom- mended tire inflation pressure on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 334). If necessary, add air to achieve the recommended tire inflation pressure.

i If you have overfilled the tire, release tire in- flation pressure by pushing the metal stem of the valve with e.g. a tip of a pen. Then recheck the tire inflation pressure with the tire gauge. 왘 Install the valve cap. 왘 Repeat this procedure for each tire.

341

Operation Tires and wheels

Run Flat Indicator (Canada only) While the vehicle is being driven, the Run Flat Indicator monitors the set tire inflation pressures by evaluating each wheel’s rota- tional speed. This allows the system to de- tect a significant loss of pressure in a tire. If a wheel’s rotational speed changes due to falling tire inflation pressure, you will see a corresponding warning message in the multifunction display. The Run Flat Indicator may function in a re- stricted manner or with a delay 앫 if snow chains are mounted to the

vehicle

앫 in presence of ice and snow 앫 if you are driving on a loose surface

(e.g. sand or gravel)

앫 if you are driving in a very sporty man- ner (involving rapid acceleration or high speeds in curves)

앫 if you are driving with the roof loaded

(CLK coupe) or very heavy cargo

342

Warning!

Warning!

When the multifunction display shows the message Tire Pressure Check Tires, one or more of your tires is significantly un- derinflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper tire inflation pressure as indicat- ed on the vehicle’s Tire and Loading Information placard or, if available, on the tire inflation pressure label. Driving on a sig- nificantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Un- derinflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability. Each tire, in- cluding the spare, should be checked monthly when cold and set to the recom- mended tire inflation pressure as specified on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 334) or, if available, on the tire inflation pressure la- bel located on the inside of the fuel filler flap (컄 page 320).

The Run Flat Indicator does not provide a warning for wrongly selected tire inflation pressures. Always adjust tire inflation pres- sure according to the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 334) or, if available, on the tire inflation pressure label located on the inside of the fuel filler flap (컄 page 320). The Run Flat Indicator does not replace regular checks of the tire inflation pressures since a gradual pressure loss in more than one tire cannot be detected by the Run Flat Indicator.

The Run Flat Indicator is not able to issue a warning due to a sudden dramatic loss of tire inflation pressure (e.g. tire blowout caused by a foreign object). In this case bring the vehicle to a halt by carefully apply- ing the brakes and avoiding abrupt steering maneuvers.

Restarting the Run Flat Indicator The tire inflation pressure monitor must be restarted in the following situations: 앫 If you have changed the tire inflation

pressure

앫 If you have replaced the wheels or tires 앫 If you have installed new wheels or

tires

왘 Using the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or, if available, the tire inflation pressure label on the inside of the fuel filler flap, make sure the tire inflation pressure of all four tires is correct.

Warning!

The Run Flat Indicator can only warn you in a reliable manner if you have set the correct tire inflation pressures for each tire.

If an incorrect tire inflation pressure was set, the system will monitor the pressure according to the incorrect value.