2010 Mercedes-benz CLS Class Owners Manual

The front passenger front air bag will only be deployed if Rthe system, based on OCS weight sensor readings, detects that the front passenger seat is occupied

Rthe 04 indicator lamp in the

center console is not lit (Y page 41)

Rthe impact exceeds a preset deployment

threshold

Knee bag Knee bag = is designed to provide increased protection for the driver against the risk of injuries to the knees, thighs and lower legs. Knee bag = is located on the driver side lower instrument panel. It is designed to operate together with the driver front air bag in certain frontal impacts if the system determines that air bag deployment can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt. Knee bag = operates best in

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conjunction with a properly positioned and fastened seat belt.

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability.

Side impact air bags G Observe Safety notes, see page 37.

Window curtain air bags G Observe Safety notes, see page 37.

Front side impact air bags : and rear side impact air bags ; are designed to provide increased protection for the thorax but not the head, neck and arms. The side impact air bags are deployed Ron the impacted side of the vehicle Rin instances with a high rate of lateral

vehicle deceleration or acceleration

Rregardless of whether the seat belts on the

impacted side of the vehicle are in use

Rindependently of the front air bags Rindependently of the ETDs The side impact air bags are not deployed in side impacts which do not exceed the system’s deployment threshold. The side impact air bags will not deploy in the event of a rollover unless the vehicle’s rate of lateral deceleration or acceleration exceeds the preset deployment threshold for the side impact air bags. G Warning! Only use seat covers which have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle model. Using other seat covers may interfere with or prevent the deployment of the front side impact air bags. Contact an

Window curtain air bags : are designed to provide increased protection for the head but not the chest or arms. Window curtain air bags : are deployed Ron the impacted side of the vehicle Rin instances with a high rate of lateral

vehicle deceleration or acceleration Rindependently of the front air bags Rregardless of whether the front passenger

seat is occupied

Rin certain vehicle rollovers, if the system determines that air bag deployment can offer additional protection to that provided by the seat belt

Window curtain air bags : are not deployed in impacts which do not exceed the system’s deployment threshold. Window curtain air bags : deploy in the area indicated by the arrows.

Occupant Classification System The Occupant Classification System (OCS) activates or deactivates the front passenger front air bag automatically. The respective status is based on the classified occupant

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42 Occupant safety

weight category determined by weight sensor readings from the front passenger seat. The system does not deactivate Rthe front passenger side impact air bag Rthe window curtain air bag Rthe Emergency Tensioning Devices (ETDs) To be classified correctly, the front passenger must sit Rwith the seat belt properly fastened Rin a position that is as upright as possible

with the back against the seat backrest

Rwith the feet on the floor If the occupant’s weight is transferred to another object in the vehicle (e.g. by leaning on armrests), the OCS may not be able to properly approximate the occupant’s weight category. Furthermore, the occupant weight may appear to increase or decrease due to the following: Robjects hanging on the seat Robjects lodged underneath the seat Robjects stuffed between the seat and

middle console

Robjects stuffed between the seat and door Rother passengers pushing on the seat Robjects applying pressure to the back of

the seat Always make sure the seat has clearance in all directions at all times.

If your seat, including the trim cover and cushion, needs to be serviced in any way, take the vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Only seat accessories approved by Mercedes-Benz may be used. Both the driver and the front passenger should always use the 04
indicator lamp as an indication of whether or not the front passenger is properly positioned.

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G Warning! If the 04 indicator lamp illuminates when an adult or someone larger than a small individual is in the front passenger seat, have the front passenger reposition himself or herself in the seat until the 04 indicator lamp goes out, or check whether objects are caught under or around the seat. In the event of a collision, the air bag control unit will not allow front passenger front air bag deployment when the OCS has classified the front passenger seat occupant as weighting as much as or less than a typical 12-month- old child in a standard child restraint or if the front passenger seat is classified as being empty. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as being up to or less than the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint, the 04 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and remain illuminated, indicating that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat is classified as being empty, the 04 indicator lamp will illuminate when the engine is started and remain illuminated, indicating that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as being heavier than the weight of a typical 12-month-old child seated in a standard child restraint or as being a small individual (such as a young teenager or a small adult), the 04 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately 6 seconds when the engine is started and then, depending on occupant weight sensor readings from the seat, remain illuminated or go out. With the 04 indicator lamp illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. With the 04

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indicator lamp out, the front passenger front air bag is activated. When the OCS senses that the front passenger seat occupant is classified as an adult or someone larger than a small individual, the 04 indicator lamp will illuminate for approximately 6 seconds when the engine is started and then go out, indicating that the front passenger front air bag is activated. If the 04 indicator lamp is illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is deactivated and will not be deployed. If the 04 indicator lamp is not illuminated, the front passenger front air bag is activated and will be deployed Rin the event of certain frontal impacts Rif impact exceeds a preset deployment

threshold

Rindependently of the side impact air bags If the front passenger front air bag is deployed, the rate of inflation will be influenced by Rthe rate of relevant vehicle deceleration as

assessed by the air bag control unit

Rthe front passenger’s weight category as

identified by the OCS

For more information on air bag display messages in the multifunction display, see (Y page 230). G Warning! According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seats whenever possible. Regardless of seating position, children 12 years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriate infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child.

The infant or child restraint must be properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, the seat belt and top tether strap, or lower anchors and top tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. Occupants, especially children, should always sit as upright as possible, wear the seat belt properly and use an appropriately sized infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. Children can be killed or seriously injured by an inflating air bag. Note the following important information when circumstances require you to place a child in the front passenger seat: RYour vehicle is equipped with air bag

technology designed to deactivate the front passenger front air bag in your vehicle when the system senses the weight of a typical 12-month-old child or less along with the weight of a standard appropriate child restraint on the front passenger seat. RA child in a rear-facing child restraint on the

front passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the front passenger front air bag inflates in a collision which could occur under some circumstances, even with the air bag technology installed in your vehicle. The only means to completely eliminate this risk is to never place a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the front seat. We therefore strongly recommend that you always place a child in a rear-facing child restraint in a backseat.

RIf you must install a rear-facing child restraint on the front passenger seat because circumstances require you to do so, make sure the 04
indicator lamp is illuminated, indicating that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. Should the 04
indicator lamp not illuminate or go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. Periodically check the

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04 indicator lamp while driving to make sure the 04
indicator lamp is illuminated. If the 04 indicator lamp goes out or remains out, do not transport a child on the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired. A child in a rear-facing child restraint on the front passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the front passenger front air bag inflates.

RIf you have to place a child in a forward-

facing child restraint on the front passenger seat, move the seat as far back as possible, use the proper child restraint recommended for the age, size and weight of the child, and secure child restraint with the vehicle’s seat belt according to the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. For children larger than the typical 12-month- old child, the front passenger front air bag may or may not be activated.

Deployment of the driver front air bag does not mean that the front passenger front air bag also should have deployed. The OCS may have determined Rthat the seat was empty or occupied by the weight up to or less than that of a typical 12-month-old child seated in a standard child restraint – both of which are instances where the system suppresses deployment of the front passenger front air bag even though the impact met the criteria and was of sufficient severity to deploy the driver front air bag

Rthat the seat was occupied by a small

individual (such as a young teenager or a small adult) or a child who weighs more than the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint – both of which are instances where the system may suppress deployment of the front passenger front air bag even though the impact met the criteria and was of

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sufficient severity to deploy the driver front air bag

04 indicator lamp : will be illuminated, except with the SmartKey removed from the starter switch or with the starter switch in position 0. G Warning! If the red SRS indicator lamp + in the instrument cluster and the 04
indicator lamp are lit at the same time, there is a malfunction in the OCS. The front passenger front air bag will be deactivated in this case. Have the system checked by qualified technicians as soon as possible. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Only have the seat repaired or replaced at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. In order to ensure proper operation of the air bag system and OCS: RDo not place more than 4.4 lb (2 kg) into the storage bag on the back of the front passenger seat. Otherwise, the OCS may not be able to properly approximate the occupant weight category.

RDo not place objects under and/or around

the front passenger seat.

RDo not hang anything from or attach any

items to the seats.

RDo not stuff objects such as books between

the front passenger seat and the center console or front passenger door.

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RDo not move the front passenger seat

backwards against stiff objects.

RSit with the seat belt properly fastened in a position that is as upright as possible with your back against the seat backrest. RWhile seated, an occupant should not

position him/herself in such a way as to cause the occupant’s weight to be lifted from the seat bottom as this may result in the OCS being unable to correctly approximate the occupant’s weight category.

RRead and observe all warnings in this

chapter.

OCS Self-test After turning the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 1 or 2 or pressing the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button once or twice, the 04 indicator lamp illuminates. If an adult occupant is properly sitting on the front passenger seat and the system classifies the occupant as an adult, the 04 indicator lamp will illuminate and go out after approximately 6 seconds. If the seat is not occupied and the system classifies the front passenger seat as being empty, the 04 indicator lamp will illuminate and not go out. G Warning! If the 04 indicator lamp does not illuminate, the system is not functioning. You must contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center before seating any child on the front passenger seat. For more information, see the “Practical hints” section (Y page 260). G Warning! Never place anything between seat cushion and child seat (e.g. pillow), since it reduces the effectiveness of the OCS. The bottom and back of the child seat must make full contact

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with the passenger seat cushion and backrest. If necessary, adjust the tilt of the passenger seat backrest. An incorrectly mounted child seat could cause injuries to the child in case of an accident, instead of increasing protection for the child. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation of child seats.

Seat belts Safety notes The use of seat belts and infant and child restraint systems is required by law in all 50
states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces. Even where this is not the case, all vehicle occupants should have their seat belts fastened whenever the vehicle is in motion. i See “Children in the vehicle” (Y page 52) for information on Rinfants and children traveling with you in

the vehicle

Rrestraint systems for infants and children G Warning! Always fasten your seat belt before driving off. Always make sure all of your passengers are properly restrained. You and your passengers should always wear seat belts. Failure to wear and properly fasten and position your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident. If you are ever in an accident, your injuries can be considerably more severe without your seat belt properly buckled. Without your seat belt buckled, you are much more likely to hit the interior of the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, the possibility of injury or death is lessened if you are properly wearing

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your seat belt. The air bags can only protect as intended if the occupants are properly wearing their seat belts. G Warning! Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat backrest in an excessively reclined position as this can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the seat belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The seat backrest and seat belt provide the best restraint when the wearer is in a position that is as upright as possible and the seat belt is properly positioned on the body. G Warning! Never let more people ride in the vehicle than there are seat belts available. Make sure everyone riding in the vehicle is correctly restrained with a separate seat belt. Never use a seat belt for more than one person at a time. G Warning! Damaged seat belts or seat belts that have been subjected to stress in an accident must be replaced. Also, the seat belt anchoring points must be checked. Only use seat belts which have been approved by Mercedes-Benz. Do not make any modifications to the seat belts. This can lead to unintended activation of the ETDs or to their failure to activate when necessary. Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be able to provide adequate protection. Have all work carried out only by qualified technicians. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

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Proper use of seat belts G Warning! USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY RSeat belts can only protect when used

properly. Never wear seat belts in any other way than as described in this section, as that could result in serious injuries in case of an accident.

REach occupant should wear their seat belt at all times, because seat belts help reduce the likelihood of and potential severity of injuries in accidents, including rollovers. The integrated restraint system includes SRS (driver front air bag, driver side knee bag, front passenger front air bag, side impact air bags, window curtain air bags for door windows), Emergency Tensioning Devices (ETDs), seat belt force limiters, and front seat knee bolsters. The system is designed to enhance the protection offered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal (front air bags, driver’s side knee bag, and ETDs) and side (side impact air bags, window curtain air bags, and ETDs) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds and in certain rollovers (window curtain air bags and ETDs).

RNever wear the shoulder belt under your

arm, against your neck or off your shoulder. In a frontal crash, your body would move too far forward. That would increase the chance of head and neck injuries. The seat belt would also apply too much force to the ribs or abdomen, which could severely injure internal organs such as your liver or spleen. Adjust the seat belt so that the shoulder section is located as close as possible to the middle of the shoulder. It should not touch the neck. Never pass the shoulder portion of the seat belt under your arm. For this purpose, you can adjust the height of the seat belt outlet.

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RPosition the lap belt as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdomen. If the lap belt is positioned across your abdomen, it could cause serious injuries in a crash.

RNever wear seat belts over rigid or

breakable objects in or on your clothing, such as eyeglasses, pens, keys etc., as these might cause injuries.

RMake sure the seat belt is always fitted snugly. Take special care of this when wearing loose clothing.

RNever use a seat belt for more than one

person at a time. Do not fasten a seat belt around a person and another person or other objects at the same time.

RSeat belts should not be worn twisted. In a crash, you would not have the full width of the seat belt to distribute impact forces. The twisted seat belt against your body could cause injuries.

RPregnant women should also always use a

lap/shoulder belt. The lap belt portion should be positioned as low as possible on the hips to avoid any possible pressure on the abdomen.

RPlace the seat backrest in a position that is

as upright as possible.

RCheck your seat belt during travel to make

sure it is properly positioned.

RNever place your feet on the instrument panel, dashboard, or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat.

RWhen using a seat belt to secure infant

restraints, toddler restraints, or children in booster seats, always follow the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. G Warning! Do not pass seat belts over sharp edges. They could tear.

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Do not allow the seat belt to get caught in the door or in the seat adjustment mechanism. This could damage the seat belt. Never attempt to make modifications to seat belts. This could impair the effectiveness of the seat belts.

Fastening the seat belts G Warning! According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seats whenever possible. Regardless of seating position, children 12 years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriately sized infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. For additional information, see “Children in the vehicle”. A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and/ or the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

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X With a smooth motion, pull the seat belt out

of seat belt outlet :.

X Place the shoulder portion of the seat belt across the top of your shoulder and the lap portion across your hips.

X Push latch plate ; into buckle = until it

clicks.

X If necessary, adjust the seat belt to the

correct height (Y page 48).

X If necessary, tighten the lap portion to a snug fit by pulling shoulder portion up.

All lap/shoulder belts except the driver’s seat belt have special seat belt retractors to secure child restraints properly. For more information on special seat belt retractors, see “Infant and child restraint systems” (Y page 53). To release the seat belt with seat belt release button ?, see (Y page 48).

Seat belt outlet height adjustment

X Raising: Slide the seat belt outlet height

adjuster upward. The seat belt outlet height adjuster engages in different positions.

X Lowering: Press and hold release

button :.

X Slide the seat belt outlet height adjuster

downward.

X Release release button : and make sure the seat belt outlet height adjuster engages into place.

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Releasing the seat belts X Press seat belt release button ?

(Y page 47). Allow the retractor to completely rewind the seat belt by guiding latch plate ; (Y page 47).

! Make sure the seat belt retracts

completely. Otherwise the seat belt and/or latch plate could get caught or pinched in the door or in the seat mechanism. This can damage the seat belt and impair its effectiveness, and/or cause damage to the door and/or door trim panel. Such damage is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Damaged seat belts must be replaced. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Enhanced seat belt reminder system When the engine is started, the seat belt telltale 7 will always illuminate for 6 seconds to remind you and your passengers to fasten your seat belts. If the driver’s seat belt is not fastened when the engine is started, an additional warning chime will sound. The warning chime goes out after approximately 6 seconds or once the driver’s seat belt is fastened. If after these 6 seconds the driver’s or the front passenger’s seat belt (with the front passenger seat occupied) is not fastened with front doors closed, Rthe seat belt telltale 7 remains

illuminated for as long as either the driver’s or front passenger’s seat belt is not fastened.

Rand if the vehicle speed once exceeds

15 mph (25 km/h), the seat belt telltale 7 starts flashing and a warning chime sounds with increasing intensity for a maximum of 60 seconds or until the driver’s and front passenger’s seat belt are fastened.

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If you and/or your passenger release the seat belt during driving, the seat belt telltale 7 starts flashing and the warning chime sounds as described before. If the driver’s or the front passenger’s seat belt remains unfastened after 60 seconds, the warning chime stops sounding, the seat belt telltale 7 stops flashing but continues to be illuminated. After a vehicle standstill, the warning chime is reactivated and the seat belt telltale 7 is flashing again if the vehicle speed once exceeds 15 mph (25 km/h).

The seat belt telltale 7 will only go out if both the driver’s and the front passenger’s seat belt (with the front passenger seat occupied) are fastened, or the vehicle is standing still and a front door is opened. For more information, see “Practical hints” (Y page 253).

Emergency Tensioning Device (ETD), seat belt force limiter The seat belts for the front seats and rear outer seats are equipped with ETDs and seat belt force limiters. The ETDs are designed to activate in the following cases: Rin frontal or rear-end impacts exceeding

the system’s preset deployment threshold

Rin side impacts exceeding the system’s preset deployment threshold on the far side of the impact

Rin certain vehicle rollovers Rif the restraint systems are operational and

functioning correctly, see “SRS indicator lamp” (Y page 36)

The ETDs for the front seats will only activate if the front seat belts are fastened (latch plate properly inserted into buckle). The ETDs for the rear outer seats will activate with or without the respective seat belts fastened.

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In an impact, the ETDs remove slack from the seat belts in such a way that the seat belts fit more snugly against the body. Seat belt force limiters, when activated, are employed to help reduce the peak force exerted by the seat belts on occupants during a crash. i The ETDs do not correct an incorrect seat

position or incorrectly worn seat belts. The ETDs do not pull occupants back toward the seat backrest. G Warning! Pyrotechnic ETDs that were activated must be replaced. For your safety, when disposing of the pyrotechnic ETDs always follow our safety instructions. These are available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Automatic comfort-fit feature seat belt An automatic comfort-fit feature for the front seats reduces the retracting force of the seat belts when they are in normal use.

Preventive occupant safety (PRE- SAFE®) G Warning! The PRE-SAFE® system is intended to reduce the effects of an accident on vehicle occupants who are wearing their seat belt properly. Despite your vehicle being equipped with the PRE-SAFE® system, the possibility of personal injuries occurring as a result of an accident cannot be eliminated. Therefore, always drive carefully and adjust your driving to the prevailing road, weather, and traffic conditions.

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The PRE-SAFE® system takes preventive measures to better protect the occupants from the possibility of personal injuries in the following hazardous situations: Remergency braking situations, e.g. if the Brake Assist System (BAS) (Y page 59) is activated

Rcritical dynamic driving situations, e.g. when the vehicle has been caused to understeer or oversteer because it has exceeded its physical limitations or in case of evasive steering maneuvers at speeds above approximately 85 mph (140 km/h) The PRE-SAFE® system takes the following measures when it is activated: RThe front seat belts are pre-tensioned

automatically.

RIf the front passenger seat is in an

unfavorable position, the seat will be adjusted to a position that seeks to better protect the occupant.

RIf the vehicle is in a critical dynamic driving

situation, the door windows and the tilt/ sliding sunroof also closes, except for a minimal gap that remains open.

If the closing procedure of any of these elements is blocked, it will stop and open slightly. Once the hazardous situation no longer exists and an accident has been avoided, the seat belt pre-tensioning is deactivated. All of the PRE-SAFE® system settings can be re- adjusted following the critical driving event. If the seat belts do not release: X Adjust the seat backrest or seat slightly to

the rear until the seat belt tension is reduced. The locking mechanism releases.

! When moving the seats, make sure there are no items in the footwell or behind the seats. Otherwise, you could damage the seats and/or the items.

NECK-PRO active front head restraints The NECK-PRO active front head restraints are intended to offer the driver and front passenger increased protection from whiplash-type injuries. In the event of a rear- end collision, the NECK-PRO active front head restraints on the front seats are designed to move forward in the direction of travel. They thus provide the head with increased support earlier on in the collision sequence. The NECK-PRO active front head restraints will move forward whether the seats are occupied or not. G Warning! Do not attach any objects (e.g. hangers) to the head restraint posts. Otherwise, the NECK- PRO active front head restraints may not be able to function properly or offer the intended degree of protection they were designed for in the event of a rear-end collision. G Warning! Only use seat or head restraint covers which have been tested and approved by Mercedes- Benz for your vehicle model. Using other seat or head restraint covers may interfere with or prevent the activation of the NECK-PRO active front head restraints and/ or the deployment of the front side impact air bags. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability. When the NECK-PRO active front head restraints have been triggered in an accident, the NECK-PRO active front head restraints must be reset. Otherwise, the NECK-PRO active front head restraints cannot offer any additional protection in the event of another rear-end collision. For information on resetting the activated NECK-PRO active front head restraints, see “Resetting activated head restraints” (Y page 264).

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You cannot remove the NECK-PRO active front head restraints. G Warning! For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints. Adjust the head restraint so that it is as close to the head as possible and the center of the head restraint supports the back of the head at eye level. This will reduce the potential for injury to the head and neck in the event of an accident or similar situation. For information on head restraint adjustment, see “Head restraint height” (Y page 79), or see “Head restraint fore and aft adjustment” (Y page 79).

Correct driver seat adjustment G Warning! In order to avoid possible loss of vehicle control the following must be done before the vehicle is put into motion: Rseat adjustment Rhead restraint adjustment Rsteering wheel adjustment Rrear view mirror adjustment Rfastening of seat belts

Steering wheel G Observe Safety notes, see page 82. X Position steering wheel : properly

(Y page 82).

Make sure: RYou can reach the steering wheel with your

arms slightly bent at the elbows.

RYou can move your legs freely. RAll displays (including malfunction and

indicator lamps) on the instrument cluster are clearly visible.

Seat belt G Observe Safety notes, see page 45. X Fasten and position your seat belt ;

correctly (Y page 47).

Make sure: RThe seat belt is always fitted snugly. RAdjust the seat belt so that the shoulder section is located as close as possible to the middle of the shoulder.

RPlace the lap portion of the seat belt as low

as possible on your hips.

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Seat and head restraint G Observe Safety notes, see page 77. X Position seat = and head restraint

properly. See (Y page 78) for seat and head restraint adjustment. Observe the following points: RAlways be in a properly seated position. RThe position should be as far rearward from

the front air bag in the steering wheel as possible, while still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls.

RAdjust the seat to a comfortable seating position that still allows you to reach the accelerator/brake pedal safely.

RThe seat must be adjusted so that you can correctly fasten and position your seat belt. RThe seat backrest must be in a position that

is as nearly upright as possible.

RAdjust the seat cushion so that the front edge of the seat cushion lightly supports your legs.

RAdjust the head restraint so that it is as

close to the head as possible and the center of the head restraint supports the back of the head at eye level.

RNever place hands under the seat or near any moving parts while the seat is being adjusted.

Children in the vehicle Safety notes If an infant or child is traveling with you in the vehicle: X Secure the child using an infant or child

restraint appropriate to the age and size of the child.

X Make sure the infant or child is properly secured at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

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

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

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

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

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Infant and child restraint systems G Observe Safety notes, see page 52. We recommend all infants and children be properly restrained at all times while the vehicle is in motion. All lap/shoulder belts except the driver’s seat belt have special seat belt retractors for secure fastening of child restraints. To fasten a child restraint, follow the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions for mounting. To activate the special seat belt retractor: X Pull the shoulder belt out completely and

let it retract. During seat belt retraction, a ratcheting sound can be heard to indicate that the special seat belt retractor is activated. The seat belt is now locked.

X Push down on child restraint to take up any

slack.

To deactivate the special seat belt retractor: X Release the seat belt buckle and let the

seat belt retract completely. The seat belt can then again be used in the usual manner. G Warning! Never release the seat belt buckle while the vehicle is in motion, since the special seat belt retractor will be deactivated.

i Information on child seats with mounting

fittings for tether anchorages (Y page 54). For information on LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child seat anchors (Y page 55).

The use of infant or child restraints is required by law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories and all Canadian provinces. Infants and small children should be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system. They must be properly secured in accordance with the manufacturer’s

Occupant safety

53

instructions for the child restraint. All infant or child restraint systems must comply with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213 and 225 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards 213 and 210.2. A statement by the child restraint manufacturer of compliance with these standards can be found on the instruction label on the restraint and in the instruction manual provided with the restraint. When using any infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat, make sure to carefully read and follow all manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use. Please read and observe warning labels affixed to the inside of the vehicle and to infant or child restraints. G Warning! According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating position. Thus, we strongly recommend that children be placed in the rear seats whenever possible. Regardless of seating position, children 12 years old and under must be seated and properly secured in an appropriate infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child. The infant or child restraint must be properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, the seat belt and top tether strap, or lower anchors and top tether strap, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. Occupants, especially children, should always sit as upright as possible, wear the seat belt properly and use an appropriately sized infant restraint, toddler restraint, or booster seat recommended for the size and weight of the child.

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Children can be killed or seriously injured by an inflating air bag. Note the following important information when circumstances require you to place a child in the front passenger seat: RYour vehicle is equipped with air bag

technology designed to deactivate the front passenger front air bag in your vehicle when the system senses the weight of a typical 12-month-old child or less along with the weight of a standard appropriate child restraint on the front passenger seat. RA child in a rear-facing child restraint on the

front passenger seat will be seriously injured or even killed if the front passenger front air bag inflates in a collision which could occur under some circumstances, even with the air bag technology installed in your vehicle. The only means to completely eliminate this risk is to never place a child in a rear-facing child restraint in the front seat. We therefore strongly recommend that you always place a child in a rear-facing child restraint in a backseat.

RIf you must install a rear-facing child restraint on the front passenger seat because circumstances require you to do so, make sure the 04
indicator lamp is illuminated, indicating that the front passenger front air bag is deactivated. Should the 04
indicator lamp not illuminate or go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. Periodically check the 04 indicator lamp while driving to make sure the 04
indicator lamp is illuminated. If the 04 indicator lamp goes out or remains out, do not transport a child on the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired. A child in a rear-facing child restraint on the front passenger seat will be seriously

injured or even killed if the front passenger front air bag inflates.

RIf you have to place a child in a forward-

facing child restraint on the front passenger seat, move the seat as far back as possible, use the proper child restraint recommended for the age, size and weight of the child, and secure child restraint with the vehicle’s seat belt according to the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. For children larger than the typical 12-month- old child, the front passenger front air bag may or may not be activated. G Warning! Infants and small children should never share a seat belt with another occupant. During an accident, they could be crushed between the occupant and seat belt. A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and/ or the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. Children too big for a toddler restraint must ride in seats using regular seat belts. Position shoulder belt across chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper seat belt positioning for children over 41 lb (18 kg) until they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without a booster. When the child restraint is not in use, remove it from the vehicle or secure it with the seat belt to prevent the child restraint from becoming a projectile in the event of an accident.

Installation of infant and child restraint systems G Observe Safety notes, see page 52. This vehicle is equipped with tether anchorages for a top tether strap at each of the rear seating positions.

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Top tether straps enable an additional connection to be made between child restraint systems secured with LATCH-type (ISOFIX) anchors and rear seats. This can further reduce the risk of injury.

X Remove anchorage ring cover : from the anchorage ring of the seat on which a child seat is to be installed.

X Store anchorage ring cover : in a convenient place (e.g. glove box).

X Guide top tether strap ? between the

head restraint and top of the seat backrest. The head restraint must be positioned such that top tether strap ? can pass freely between the head restraint and top of the seat backrest.

X Make sure top tether strap ? is not

twisted.

X Securely fasten hook =, which is part of top tether strap ?, to anchorage ring ;. X For safety, make sure hook = is attached

to anchorage ring ; beyond the safety catch, as illustrated.

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55

Once hook = is attached, the child restraint itself can be secured. X Install the child restraint system and

tighten top tether strap ? according to the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions. After removing the child restraint system and top tether strap ?: X Reinstall anchorage ring cover :.

Child seat anchors – LATCH-type (ISOFIX) G Observe Safety notes, see page 52. G Warning! Children too big for a toddler restraint must ride in seats using regular seat belts. Position shoulder belt across chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper seat belt positioning for children over 41 lb (18 kg) until they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without a booster. Install child seat according to manufacturer’s instructions. The child seat must be firmly attached to both anchors. An incorrectly mounted child seat may come loose during an accident which could result in serious injury or death to the child. Damaged or impact damaged child seats or child seat mounting fittings must be replaced. Each rear seat has two LATCH-type (ISOFIX) anchors for the installation of a LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child seat with matching mounting fittings. Non-LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child seats may also be used and can be installed using the vehicle’s seat belt system. Install child seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The LATCH-type (ISOFIX) anchors are covered with upholstery blends.

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X Securing: Press the lever up in direction of

arrow :.

X Check to make sure the child safety locks

are working properly.

X Releasing: Press the lever down in

direction of arrow ;.

Override switch G Observe Safety notes, see page 52. You can disable the rear door window operation and the 12V power outlet in the rear center console for added safety. This can be useful, for instance, when you have children riding in the rear passenger compartment. G Warning! Activate the override switch when children are riding in the back seats of the vehicle. The children may otherwise injure themselves, e.g. by becoming trapped in the rear door window opening.

Information sign : indicates the position of anchor ;. X Fold the upholstery blend upward to access

anchors ;.

X Install a LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child seat

according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A rigid connection between the child seat and the body of the vehicle is established.

Child safety Child safety locks G Observe Safety notes, see page 52. G Warning! Children could open a rear door from the inside. This may cause serious personal injury or an accident. Therefore, secure the rear doors with the child safety locks whenever children are riding in the back seats of the vehicle. The child safety locks on the rear doors enable you to secure each rear door individually. You cannot open a secured rear door from the inside. You can open the rear door from the outside when the vehicle is unlocked.

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X Activating: Press override switch :.

Indicator lamp ; comes on. The functions in the rear are disabled.

You can still operate the rear door windows using the switches located on the door control panel of the driver’s door. X Deactivating: Press override switch :

again. Indicator lamp ; goes out. The functions in the rear are enabled again. For more information on power windows, see the “Controls in detail” section (Y page 94).

Panic alarm

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

2.

interference, and 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 this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

2.

Example illustration: SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO X Activating: Press and hold ! button : for at least 1 second. An audible alarm and flashing exterior lamps will operate.

X Deactivating: Press ! button : again. or X Insert the SmartKey into the starter switch. or X Press the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button. The SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO must be inside the vehicle.

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

Driving safety systems Introduction This section contains information about the following driving safety systems: RABS (Antilock Brake System) RAdaptive Brake RBAS (Brake Assist System) REBP (Electronic Brake Proportioning) RESP® (Electronic Stability Program) i In winter operation, the maximum effectiveness of most of the driving systems described in this section is only

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58 Driving safety systems

achieved with winter tires, or snow chains as required.

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

ABS G Observe Safety notes, see page 58. G Warning! Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pumping the brake pedal defeats the purpose of the ABS

and significantly reduces braking effectiveness. The Antilock Brake System (ABS) regulates the brake pressure so that the wheels do not lock during braking. This allows you to maintain the ability to steer your vehicle. The ABS is functional above a speed of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) independent of road surface conditions. On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will respond even to light brake pressure. The ABS indicator lamp ! in the instrument cluster comes on when you switch on the ignition. It goes out when the engine is running.

Braking At the instant one of the wheels is about to lock up, a slight pulsation can be felt in the brake pedal. The pulsation indicates that the ABS is in the regulating mode. X Keep firm and steady pressure on the brake

pedal while you feel the pulsation.

Continuous, steady brake pedal pressure yields the advantages provided by the ABS, namely braking power and the ability to steer the vehicle. The pulsating brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra care while driving.

Emergency brake maneuver X Keep continuous full pressure on the brake

pedal. G Warning! If the ABS malfunctions, other driving safety systems such as the BAS or the ESP® are also switched off. Observe indicator and warning lamps that may come on as well as messages in the multifunction display that may appear.

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If the ABS malfunctions, the wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability and extending the braking distance.

BAS G Observe Safety notes, see page 58. The Brake Assist System (BAS) operates in emergency situations. If you apply the brakes very quickly, the BAS provides full brake boost automatically, thereby potentially reducing the braking distance. X Apply continuous full braking pressure until

the emergency braking situation is over. The ABS will prevent the wheels from locking.

When you release the brake pedal, the brakes function again as normal. The BAS is then deactivated. G Warning! If the BAS malfunctions, the brake system still functions, but without the additional brake boost available that the BAS would normally provide in an emergency braking maneuver. Therefore, the braking distance may increase.

Adaptive Brake Adaptive Brake provides a high level of braking safety as well as increased braking comfort. Adaptive Brake takes driver and vehicle characteristics into consideration, thus achieving an optimal braking effect. For more information on the brake system, see (Y page 210).

EBP G Observe Safety notes, see page 58. The Electronic Brake Proportioning (EBP) enhances braking effectiveness by allowing the rear brakes to supply a greater proportion

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59

of the braking effort in straight-line braking without a loss of vehicle stability. G Warning! If the EBP malfunctions, the brake system will still function with full brake boost. However, the rear wheels could lock up during emergency braking situations, for example. You could lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident. Adapt your driving style to the changed driving characteristics.

ESP® G Observe Safety notes, see page 58. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) is operational as soon as the engine is running. It monitors the vehicle’s traction (force of adhesive friction between the tires and the road surface) and handling. The ESP® recognizes that the vehicle deviates from the direction of travel as intended by the driver. By applying brakes to individual wheels and by limiting the engine output, the ESP® works to stabilize the vehicle. The ESP® is especially useful while driving off and on wet or slippery road surfaces. The ESP® also stabilizes the vehicle during braking and steering maneuvers. The ESP® warning lamp d in the instrument cluster comes on when you switch on the ignition. It goes out when the engine is running. The ESP® warning lamp d in the instrument cluster flashes when the ESP® is engaged.

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conditions by applying the brakes to a spinning wheel. Except CLS 63 AMG: When you switch off the ESP®, the ETS is still enabled.

Switching off the ESP®

60 Driving safety systems

G Warning! Never switch off the ESP® when you see the ESP® warning lamp d flashing in the instrument cluster. In this case proceed as follows: RWhen driving off, apply as little throttle as

possible.

RWhile driving, ease up on the accelerator

pedal.

RAdapt your speed and driving style to the

prevailing road conditions.

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

! Because the ESP® operates

automatically, the engine and ignition must be shut off (SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1 or KEYLESS-GO start/stop button in position 0 or 1) when the parking brake is being tested on a brake test dynamometer or when the vehicle is being towed with the front axle raised. Active braking action through the ESP® may otherwise seriously damage the brake system which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

! The ESP® will only function properly if you use wheels of the recommended tire size as specified in the “Technical data” section of this Operator’s Manual.

i The Distronic system and cruise control

switch off automatically when the ESP® engages.

Electronic Traction System (ETS) G Observe Safety notes, see page 58. The ETS (Electronic Traction System) is a component of the ESP®. The ETS improves the vehicle’s ability to utilize available traction, especially under slippery road

Switching off the ESP® (except CLS 63 AMG) G Warning! The ESP® should not be switched off during normal driving other than in the circumstances described below. Disabling the system will reduce vehicle stability in driving maneuvers. Do not switch off the ESP® when a spare wheel is mounted. To improve the vehicle’s traction, switch off the ESP®. This allows the drive wheels to spin and thus cut into surfaces for better grip, for example Rwhen driving with snow chains Rin deep snow Rin sand or gravel G Warning! Switch on the ESP® immediately if the aforementioned circumstances do not apply anymore. Otherwise the ESP® will not stabilize the vehicle when it is starting to skid or a wheel is spinning.

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When you switch off the ESP®, Rthe ESP® does not stabilize the vehicle Rthe engine output is not limited, which

allows the drive wheels to spin and thus cut into surfaces for better grip

Rthe ETS will still apply the brakes to a

spinning wheel

Rthe ESP® continues to operate when you

are braking

Rthe cruise control or the Distronic system

cannot be activated

Rthe cruise control or the Distronic system

switch off if activated

i When the ESP® is switched off and one or more drive wheels are spinning, the ESP® warning lamp d in the instrument cluster flashes. However, the ESP® will then not stabilize the vehicle.

X With the engine running, press ESP®

switch : until the ESP® warning lamp d in the instrument cluster comes on. The ESP® is switched off. G Warning! When the ESP® warning lamp d is illuminated continuously, the ESP® is switched off or is not operational due to a malfunction. Vehicle stability in standard driving maneuvers is reduced. Adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing road conditions and to the non-operating status of the ESP®.

! Avoid spinning of a drive wheel for an extended period with the ESP® switched off. This may cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Switching off the ESP® (CLS 63 AMG only) G Warning! The ESP® should not be switched off during normal driving. Disabling of the system will result in the following: Rno restriction to engine torque Rloss of system-supported traction control “ESP® OFF” is designed for driving on closed tracks when the vehicle’s natural oversteer and understeer characteristics are desired and requires a highly skilled and experienced driver able to handle these critical driving situations. You could lose control of your vehicle and cause an accident. Please be aware of these limits when you switch off the ESP®. Do not switch off the ESP® when a spare wheel is mounted.

When you switch off the ESP®, Rthe ESP® does not stabilize the vehicle Rthe engine output is not limited, which

allows the drive wheels to spin

Rthe ETS will still apply the brakes to a

spinning wheel

Rthe ESP® operates while you are braking Rthe cruise control or the Distronic system

cannot be activated

Rthe cruise control or the Distronic system

switch off if currently activated

i When the ESP® is switched off and one or more drive wheels are spinning, the ESP® warning lamp d in the instrument cluster flashes. However, the ESP® will then not stabilize the vehicle.

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Anti-theft systems

X With the engine running, press ESP®

switch : until the ESP® warning lamp d in the instrument cluster comes on. The ESP® is switched off. G Warning! When the ESP® warning lamp d is illuminated continuously, the ESP® is switched off or is not operational due to a