2012 Mercedes-benz CLS Class Owners Manual

G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS is a convenience system. Its speed adjustment reduction capability is intended to make cruise control more effective and usable when traffic speeds vary. It is not however, intended to, nor does it, replace the need for extreme care. The responsibility for the vehicle's speed, distance to the preceding vehicle and, most importantly, brake operation to ensure a safe stopping distance, always remains with the driver. The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take street and traffic conditions into account. Complex driving situations are not always fully recognized by the DISTRONIC PLUS. This could result in wrong or missing distance warnings.

If you want DISTRONIC PLUS to assist you, the radar sensor system must be activated (Y page 211) and operational. If there is no vehicle driving in front of you, DISTRONIC PLUS functions like cruise control at a speed range between 20 mph (Canada: 30 km/h) and 120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). If a vehicle is driving in front of you, it functions at a speed range between 0 mph (0 km/h) and 120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). Do not use DISTRONIC PLUS while driving on roads with steep gradients. As DISTRONIC PLUS transmits radar waves, it can resemble the radar detectors of the responsible authorities. You can refer to the applicable section in the Operator's Manual if there are any questions concerning this. i USA only:

This device has been approved by the FCC as a “Vehicular Radar System”. The radar sensor is intended for use in an automotive radar system only. Removal, tampering, or altering of the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted by the FCC. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control is not a substitute for active driving involvement. It does not react to pedestrians or on stationary objects, nor does it recognize or predict the curvature and lane layout or the movement of preceding vehicles. The DISTRONIC PLUS can only apply a maximum of 40% of the vehicle's braking power. The DISTRONIC PLUS may not detect narrow vehicles possibly driving in front of you, such as motorcycles and vehicles driving in an offset formation. It is the driver's responsibility at all times to be attentive to the road, weather and traffic

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conditions. Additionally, the driver must provide the steering, braking and other driving inputs necessary to remain in control of the vehicle. High-frequency sources such as toll stations, speed measuring systems etc. can cause the DISTRONIC PLUS system to temporarily cease functioning. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take road and traffic conditions into account. Only use the DISTRONIC PLUS if the road, weather and traffic conditions make it advisable to travel at a constant speed. G WARNING Use of the DISTRONIC PLUS can be dangerous on slippery roads. Rapid changes in tire traction can result in wheel spin and loss of control. The DISTRONIC PLUS does not function in adverse sight and distance conditions. Do not use the DISTRONIC PLUS during conditions of fog, heavy rain, snow or sleet. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take weather conditions into account. Switch off the DISTRONIC PLUS or do not switch it on if: Rroads are slippery or covered with snow or

ice. The wheels could lose traction while braking or accelerating, and the vehicle could skid.

Rthe DISTRONIC PLUS system sensor covers

are dirty or visibility is diminished due to snow, rain or fog, for example. The distance control system functionality could be impaired.

Always pay attention to surrounding traffic conditions even while the DISTRONIC PLUS is switched on. Otherwise, you may not be able to recognize dangerous situations until it is too late. This could cause an accident in which you and/or others could be injured.

G WARNING The "Resume" function should only be operated if the driver is fully aware of the previously set speed and wishes to resume this particular preset speed. G WARNING Your undivided attention to street and traffic conditions is necessary at all times whether DISTRONIC PLUS is active or not. The use of DISTRONIC PLUS can be dangerous on winding roads or in heavy traffic because conditions do not allow safe driving at a constant speed. DISTRONIC PLUS does not react to stationary objects on the road (for example, a vehicle stopped in traffic or an abandoned vehicle). DISTRONIC PLUS likewise does not react to oncoming vehicles. Deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS: Rwhen changing to the right lane, if the

vehicles in the left lane are driving slower

Rwhen driving into a filter lane or an

expressway exit

Rin complex driving situations, for example

at roadworks on an expressway

In these situations DISTRONIC PLUS will maintain the set speed if it is not deactivated. DISTRONIC PLUS is intended only for maintaining a set speed and a set distance from the objects moving in front of the vehicle. G WARNING An intermittent warning sounds and the distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster is illuminated if the DISTRONIC PLUS system calculates that the distance to the vehicle ahead and your vehicle's current speed indicate that the DISTRONIC PLUS will not be capable of slowing the vehicle sufficiently to maintain the preset following distance, which creates a danger of a collision.

Immediately brake the vehicle to increase your distance to the preceding vehicle. The warning sound is intended as a final caution in which you should intercede with your own braking inputs to avoid a potentially dangerous situation. Do not wait for the operation of the warning signal to intercede with your own braking. This will result in potentially dangerous emergency braking which will not always result in an impact being avoided. Tailgating increases the risk of an accident. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS brakes your vehicle with a maximum deceleration of 13 ft/s2(4 m/s2). This is equivalent to approximately 40 % of your vehicle's maximum possible deceleration. You need to brake yourself to prevent a collision. DISTRONIC PLUS brakes the vehicle to restore the set distance from the vehicle ahead or the set speed. G WARNING If you do not receive visual or acoustic warning signals during a critical traffic situation, DISTRONIC PLUS has either not recognized the collision risk, has been deactivated or is malfunctioning. Remember, whether or not DISTRONIC PLUS is operating, it is ultimately always the drivers responsibility to apply the brakes in order to control the vehicle and avoid a collision.

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Cruise control lever

: To store the current speed or a higher

speed

; To store the current speed or a lower

speed

= To deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS ? To store the current speed or to call up

the last stored speed

A To set the specified minimum distance

Switching on DISTRONIC PLUS, storing the current speed and maintaining it Important safety notes G WARNING The vehicle can be braked when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated. For this reason, deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS if the vehicle is to be set in motion by other means (e.g. in a car wash or by towing).

In order to activate DISTRONIC PLUS, the following conditions must be fulfilled: Rthe engine must be running. It may take up

to two minutes of driving before DISTRONIC PLUS is ready for use.

Rthe parking brake must not be applied. Ryour vehicle must not be secured by the

electric parking brake.

RESP® must be activated. Rthe transmission must be in position D. Rthe hood must be closed.

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Rthe driver's door must be closed when you shift from P to D or your seat belt must be fastened.

Rthe front-passenger door and rear doors

must be closed.

Rthe vehicle must not skid. Activating while driving When driving at speeds below 20 mph (30 km/h), you can only activate DISTRONIC PLUS if the vehicle in front has been detected and is shown in the multifunction display. If the vehicle in front is not shown in the multifunction display and is no longer being detected, because it has changed lanes, for example, DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated and a tone sounds. X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards you ? or press it up : or down ; to the pressure point. DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.

X Keep the cruise control lever pressed

up : or down ; until the desired speed is set.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal. Your vehicle adapts its speed to that of the vehicle in front, but only up to the desired stored speed. i If you do not fully release the accelerator pedal, the DISTRONIC PLUS suspended message appears in the multifunction display. The set distance to a slower- moving vehicle in front will then not be maintained. You will be driving at the speed you determine by the position of the accelerator pedal.

Activating when driving towards a stationary vehicle If the vehicle in front of you is stationary, you can only activate DISTRONIC PLUS once your vehicle is stationary as well.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards you ? or press it up : or down ; to the pressure point. DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.

i DISTRONIC PLUS can only be activated at under 20 mph (30 km/h) if a vehicle in front has been detected. Therefore, the DISTRONIC PLUS distance display in the instrument cluster should be activated (Y page 206).

X Keep the cruise control lever pressed

up : or down ; until the desired speed is set.

i You can use the cruise control lever to set

the stored speed and the control on the cruise control lever to set the specified minimum distance (Y page 162).

Pulling away X If the vehicle in front pulls away: remove

your foot from the brake pedal.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ?.

or X Accelerate briefly.

Your vehicle pulls away and adapts its speed to that of the vehicle in front.

Driving If there is no vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS operates in the same way as cruise control. If a slower-moving vehicle is detected in front, DISTRONIC PLUS causes your vehicle to brake and maintain a preset distance to the vehicle in front. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a faster-moving vehicle in front, it increases the driving speed, but only up to the desired speed you have stored. G WARNING If you depress the brake, DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated unless your vehicle is stationary. DISTRONIC PLUS then no longer brakes your

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vehicle. In such cases, control the distance from vehicles travelling in front with the brake alone. You could otherwise cause an accident and thereby injure yourself and others. The driver remains fully responsible for the vehicle's distance from other vehicles, the speed being driven and for braking in good time.

Changing lanes If you wish to change to the passing lane (in left-hand-drive vehicles, the passing lane is the left-hand lane), DISTRONIC PLUS supports you if: Ryou are driving faster than 40 mph

(60 km/h).

RDISTRONIC PLUS is maintaining the

distance to a vehicle in front.

Ryou switch on the appropriate turn signals. RDISTRONIC PLUS does not detect a danger

of collision.

If these conditions are met, your vehicle is accelerated. Acceleration will be interrupted if changing lanes takes too long or if the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front becomes too small. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS and Active Blind Spot Assist are only aids designed to assist driving. They do not relieve you of the responsibility of paying attention. The driver remains fully responsible for the vehicle's distance from other vehicles, the vehicle's speed and for braking in good time. Always pay attention to traffic conditions and your surroundings. Otherwise, you may fail to recognize dangers in time, cause an accident and injure yourself and others.

Stopping G WARNING Never get out of the vehicle when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated.

DISTRONIC PLUS must also never be operated, activated or deactivated by a passenger or from outside the vehicle. DISTRONIC PLUS does not replace the parking brake and must not be used for parking. The DISTRONIC PLUS braking effect is canceled and the vehicle can start moving if: RDISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated using the

cruise control lever.

Ryou accelerate. Rthere is a malfunction in the system or an

interruption in the power supply, e.g. battery failure.

Rthe electrical system in the engine

compartment, the battery or the fuses are tampered with.

Rthe battery is disconnected. If you wish to leave the vehicle or park it, deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS and secure the vehicle against rolling away.

If DISTRONIC PLUS detects that the vehicle in front is stopping, it brakes your vehicle until it is stationary. Once your vehicle is stationary, it remains stationary and you do not need to depress the brake. i Depending on the specified minimum

distance, your vehicle will come to a standstill at a sufficient distance behind the vehicle in front. The specified minimum distance is set using the control on the cruise control lever.

When DISTRONIC PLUS is activated, the transmission is shifted automatically to position P if: Rthe driver's door is open and the driver's

seat belt is unfastened.

Rthe engine is switched off. Rthe hood is opened. Ra system malfunction occurs. Rthe power supply is not sufficient.

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legal speed limits permit. Possible acceleration or deceleration differences arising from returning to the preset speed could cause an accident and/or serious injury to you and others.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ?.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal. DISTRONIC PLUS is activated. The first time it is activated, the current speed is stored. Otherwise, it sets the vehicle cruise speed to the previously stored value.

Setting the specified minimum distance You can set the specified minimum distance for DISTRONIC PLUS by varying the time span between one and two seconds. With this function, you can set the minimum distance that DISTRONIC PLUS keeps to the vehicle in front, dependent on vehicle speed. You can see this distance in the multifunction display (Y page 163). G WARNING It is up to the driver to exercise discretion to select the appropriate setting given road conditions, traffic, driver's preferred driving style and applicable laws and driving recommendations for safe following distance.

Setting a speed G WARNING Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has made the necessary adjustments. Increase or decrease the set vehicle speed to a value that the prevailing road conditions and legal speed limits permit. Otherwise, sudden and unexpected acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle could cause an accident and/ or serious injury to you and others.

X Press the cruise control lever to the

pressure point, up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed.

X Keep the cruise control lever pressed until

the desired speed is reached.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The new speed is stored. DISTRONIC PLUS is activated and adjusts the vehicle's speed to the new speed stored.

Making adjustments in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments X Briefly press the cruise control lever to the pressure point, up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed. The last speed stored is increased or reduced.

Making adjustments in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments X Briefly press the cruise control lever

beyond the pressure point, up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed. The last speed stored is increased or reduced.

Storing the current speed or calling up a stored speed G WARNING The set speed stored in memory should only be set again if prevailing road conditions and

X To increase: turn control ; in direction

=. DISTRONIC PLUS then maintains a greater distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front.

X To decrease: turn control ; in

direction :. DISTRONIC PLUS then maintains a shorter distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front.

i Make sure that you maintain a sufficient and safe distance from the vehicle in front. Adjust the distance to the vehicle in front if necessary.

DISTRONIC PLUS displays in the speedometer

When DISTRONIC PLUS is activated, one or two segments ; in the set speed range light up. i For design reasons, the speed displayed in the speedometer may differ slightly from the speed set for DISTRONIC PLUS.

If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a vehicle in front, segments ; between speed of the vehicle in front : and stored speed = light up.

DISTRONIC PLUS displays in the multifunction display General notes In the Assistance menu (Y page 206) of the on-board computer, you can select the

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163

distance display and activate or deactivate the PRE-SAFE® Brake. Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated X Select the Distance Display function using the on-board computer (Y page 206).

When DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated, you will see the following in the multifunction display:

: Symbol for activated PRE-SAFE® Brake ; Vehicle in front, if detected = Distance indicator, current distance to

the vehicle in front

? Specified minimum distance to the

vehicle in front, adjustable

A Own vehicle Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated X Select the Distance display function using the on-board computer (Y page 206).

You will see the stored speed for about five seconds when you activate DISTRONIC PLUS. After this time, you will see the following in the multifunction display while DISTRONIC PLUS is activated:

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: DISTRONIC PLUS activated ; Own vehicle = Specified minimum distance to the

vehicle in front, adjustable ? Vehicle in front, if detected

Deactivating DISTRONIC PLUS

There are several ways to deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS: X Briefly press the cruise control lever

forwards :.

or X Brake, unless the vehicle is stationary. If you deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS, the DISTRONIC PLUS Off message is shown in the multifunction display for approximately five seconds. i The last speed stored remains stored until

you switch off the engine.

i DISTRONIC PLUS is not deactivated if you

depress the accelerator pedal. If you accelerate to overtake, DISTRONIC PLUS adjusts the vehicle's speed to the last

speed stored after you have finished overtaking.

DISTRONIC PLUS is automatically deactivated if: Ryou apply the parking brake. Ryou are driving slower than

15 mph (25 km/h) and there is no vehicle in front, or if the vehicle in front is no longer detected.

RESP® intervenes or you deactivate ESP®. Rthe transmission is in the P, R or N position. Ryou switch off the radar sensor system

(Y page 211).

Ryou pull the cruise control lever towards you in order to pull away and the front- passenger door or one of the rear doors is open.

Rthe vehicle has skidded. If DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated, you will hear a warning tone. The DISTRONIC PLUS Off message is shown in the multifunction display for approximately five seconds. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS switches off and releases the brakes when the vehicle decelerates below the minimum speed of 20 mph (30 km/h) by operation of the system unless the DISTRONIC PLUS detects a vehicle directly ahead of you. At that time the driver must apply the brakes in order to reduce vehicle speed further or bring it to a stop.

Tips for driving with DISTRONIC PLUS Important safety notes The following contains descriptions of certain road and traffic conditions in which you must be particularly attentive. In such situations, brake if necessary. DISTRONIC PLUS is then deactivated. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS works to maintain the speed selected by the driver unless a moving obstacle proceeding directly ahead of it in the

same travel direction is detected (e.g. following another vehicle ahead of you at your set distance). This means that: RYour vehicle can pass another vehicle after

you have changed lanes.

RWhile in a sharp turn or if the preceding vehicle is in a sharp turn, the DISTRONIC PLUS could lose sight of the preceding vehicle. Your vehicle could then accelerate to the previously selected speed.

The DISTRONIC PLUS regulates only the distance between your vehicle and those directly ahead of it. It may not register stationary objects in the road, e.g.: Ra stopped vehicle in a traffic jam Ra disabled vehicle Ran oncoming vehicle The driver must always be alert, observe all traffic and intercede as required by means of steering or braking the vehicle. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS should not be used in snowy or icy road conditions.

Cornering, going into and coming out of a bend

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Vehicles traveling on a different line

DISTRONIC PLUS may not detect vehicles traveling on a different line. The distance to the vehicle in front will be too short. Other vehicles changing lane

DISTRONIC PLUS has not detected the vehicle cutting in yet. The distance to this vehicle will be too short. Narrow vehicles

The ability of DISTRONIC PLUS to detect vehicles when cornering is limited. Your vehicle may brake unexpectedly or late.

DISTRONIC PLUS has not yet detected the vehicle in front on the edge of the road,

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because of its narrow width. The distance to the vehicle in front will be too short. Obstructions and stationary vehicles

DISTRONIC PLUS does not brake for obstacles or stationary vehicles. If, for example, the detected vehicle turns a corner and reveals an obstacle or stationary vehicle, DISTRONIC PLUS will not brake for these. Crossing vehicles

DISTRONIC PLUS may mistakenly detect vehicles that are crossing your lane. Activating DISTRONIC PLUS at traffic lights with crossing traffic, for example, could cause your vehicle to pull away unintentionally.

HOLD function General notes The HOLD function can assist the driver in the following situations: Rwhen pulling away, especially on steep

slopes

Rwhen maneuvering on steep slopes Rwhen waiting in traffic The vehicle is kept stationary without the driver having to depress the brake pedal. The braking effect is canceled and the HOLD function deactivated when you depress the accelerator pedal to pull away.

Activation conditions You can activate the HOLD function if: Rthe vehicle is stationary. Rthe engine is running. Rthe driver's door is closed or if your seat

belt is fastened.

Rthe parking brake is not applied. Rthe hood is closed. Rthe transmission is in position D, R or N. RDISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated.

Activating the HOLD function X Make sure that the activation conditions

are met.

X Depress the brake pedal.

X Quickly depress the brake pedal further until HOLD display : appears in the multifunction display. The HOLD function is activated. You can release the brake pedal.

i If depressing the brake pedal the first

time does not activate the HOLD function, wait briefly and then try again. G WARNING The vehicle's brakes are applied when the HOLD function is activated. For this reason, deactivate the HOLD function if the vehicle is to be set in motion by other means (e.g. in a car wash or by towing).

Deactivating the HOLD function The HOLD function is deactivated automatically if: Ryou accelerate and the transmission is in

position D or R.

Rthe transmission is in position P. Ryou apply the brakes again with a certain amount of pressure until HOLD disappears from the multifunction display. Ryou activate DISTRONIC PLUS. G WARNING Never get out of the vehicle when the HOLD function is activated. The HOLD function must never be operated or deactivated by a passenger or from outside the vehicle. The HOLD function does not replace the parking brake and must not be used for parking. The braking effect of the HOLD function is canceled and the vehicle could roll away if: Rthe HOLD function is deactivated by

depressing the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal.

Rthere is a malfunction in the system or an

interruption in the power supply, e.g. battery failure.

Rthe electrical system in the engine

compartment, the battery or the fuses are tampered with.

Rthe battery is disconnected.

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If you leave the vehicle or park it, deactivate the HOLD function and secure the vehicle against rolling away.

When the HOLD function is activated, the transmission is shifted automatically to position P if: Rthe driver's door is open and the driver's

seat belt is unfastened.

Rthe engine is switched off. Rthe hood is opened. Ra system malfunction occurs. Rthe power supply is not sufficient.

RACE START Important safety notes i RACE START is only available in AMG

vehicles.

RACE START enables optimal acceleration from a standing start. The precondition for this is a suitable high-grip road surface. G WARNING RACE START is only available when SPORT handling mode is activated. SPORT handling mode only stabilizes the vehicle to a limited extent in the event of swerving or wheelspin. RACE START should only be used on specially designated roads. Always adapt your speed and driving style to the prevailing road and weather conditions.

Conditions for activation RACE START can be activated when: Rthe doors are closed. Rthe engine is running and it has reached an

operating temperature of approximately 176 ‡ (80 †). This is the case when the engine oil temperature in the multifunction display stops flashing.

RSPORT handling mode is activated.

(Y page 65)

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Rthe steering wheel is in the straight-ahead

position.

Rthe vehicle is stationary and the brake

pedal is depressed (left foot).

Rthe transmission is in position D.

Activating RACE START X Depress the brake pedal with your left foot,

and keep it depressed.

X Turn the drive program selector clockwise (Y page 143) until the RS lamp lights up. The multifunction display shows the RACE START Confirm: Paddle UP Cancel: Paddle DOWN message. i If the conditions for activation are no longer fulfilled, RACE START is canceled. The multifunction display shows the RACE START canceled message. X To cancel: pull the left steering wheel shift

paddle (Y page 144).

or X To confirm: pull the right steering wheel shift paddle (Y page 144). The multifunction display shows the RACE START available Depress accelerator message. i If you do not depress the accelerator pedal fully within two seconds, RACE START is canceled. The multifunction display shows the RACE START not possible See Operator's Manual message.

X Depress the accelerator pedal fully.

The engine speed increases to approximately 4000 rpm. The multifunction display shows the RACE START Release brake to start message.

i If you do not release the brake pedal within seven seconds, RACE START is

canceled. The multifunction display shows the RACE START canceled message. X Take your foot off the brake, but keep the

accelerator pedal depressed. The vehicle pulls away at maximum acceleration. The multifunction display shows the RACE START active message. RACE START is deactivated when a speed of approximately 30 mph (Canada: 50 km/h) is reached. Drive program S+ is activated. SPORT handling mode remains activated. RACE START is deactivated immediately if you release the accelerator pedal during RACE START or if any of the activation conditions are no longer fulfilled. The multifunction display shows the RACE START not possible See Operator's Manual message. i If RACE START is used repeatedly within a short period of time, it is only available again after the vehicle has been driven a certain distance.

AIRMATIC Vehicle level Important safety notes Your vehicle regulates its height automatically. All-round self-leveling ensures the best possible suspension and constant ground clearance, even with a laden vehicle. When you drive fast, the vehicle is lowered automatically to improve driving safety and to reduce fuel consumption. The following vehicle levels are possible: Rnormal Rraised: the vehicle is raised by about 0.80 in (20 mm) when compared with the normal level

Rlowered: the vehicle is lowered by about 0.40 in (10 mm) when compared with the normal level

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i These changes in level are so slight that

you are hardly aware of them.

The "Normal" and "Raised" vehicle levels can be set manually. The "Lowered” vehicle level is set automatically: Rat speeds above 70 mph (113 km/h) Rif you have selected "Sports tuning"

(Y page 169)

Setting the vehicle level Select the "Normal" setting for normal road surfaces and "Raised" for driving with snow chains or on particularly poor road surfaces. Your selection remains stored even if you remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock. G WARNING To help avoid personal injury, keep hands and feet away from wheel housing area, and stay away from under the vehicle when lowering the vehicle chassis.

Setting raised level X Start the engine. If indicator lamp ; is not lit: X Press button :.

Indicator lamp ; lights up. The vehicle height is adjusted to raised level. The Vehicle rising message appears in the display.

The "Raised level" setting is canceled if you: Rdrive at speeds above approximately

75 mph (120 km/h)

Rdrive about 3 minutes at speeds above

50 mph (80 km/h)

The "Raised level" remains active when you are not driving within these speed ranges. Setting the normal level X Start the engine. If indicator lamp ; is lit: X Press button :.

Indicator lamp ; goes out. The vehicle is adjusted to normal level.

Suspension tuning General notes The electronically controlled damping system works continuously. This improves driving safety and ride comfort. The damping is tuned individually to each wheel and depends on: Ryour driving style, e.g. sporty Rthe road surface condition, e.g. bumps Ryour individual selection, i.e. sports or

comfort

Your selection remains stored even if you remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock.

Sports tuning The firmer suspension tuning in Sport mode ensures even better contact with the road.

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Select this mode when employing a sporty driving style, e.g. on winding country roads. X Press button :.

Indicator lamp ; lights up. Sports suspension tuning is selected. The AIRMATIC SPORT message appears in the multifunction display.

Comfort tuning In Comfort mode, the driving characteristics of your vehicle are more comfortable. Select this mode if you prefer a more comfortable driving style, but also when driving fast on straight roads, e.g. highways. X Press button :.

Indicator lamp = lights up. Comfort tuning is selected. The AIRMATIC COMFORT message appears in the multifunction display.

AMG adaptive sport suspension system General notes i AMG adaptive sport suspension system is

available for the CLS 63 AMG model.

Rear axle level control The vehicle automatically sets the vehicle level at the rear axle. Rear axle level control ensures the best possible suspension and that the ground clearance remains constant even when the vehicle is loaded. This improves driving safety and fuel consumption.

Suspension tuning General notes The electronically controlled damping system works continuously. This improves driving safety and ride comfort.

The damping is tuned individually to each wheel and depends on: Ryour driving style, e.g. sporty Rthe road surface condition, e.g. bumps Ryour individual selection of Sport, Sport +

or Comfort

If you select Sport or Sport + mode and restart the engine, the suspension setting reverts to Comfort mode.

Sport mode The firmer suspension tuning in Sport mode ensures even better contact with the road. Select this mode when employing a sporty driving style, e.g. on winding country roads. X Press button : once.

Indicator lamp ? lights up. You have selected Sport mode. The AMG Suspension System SPORT message appears in the multifunction display.

Sport + mode The very firm setting of the suspension tuning in Sport + mode ensures the best possible contact with the road. Select this mode only when driving on race circuits. If indicator lamps = and ? are off: X Press button : twice.

Indicator lamps = and ? light up. You have selected Sport + mode. The AMG Suspension System SPORT + message appears in the multifunction display.

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If indicator lamp ? lights up: X Press button : once.

The second indicator lamp = lights up. You have selected Sport + mode. The AMG Suspension System SPORT + message appears in the multifunction display.

Comfort mode In Comfort mode, the driving characteristics of your vehicle are more comfortable. Select this mode if you prefer a more comfortable driving style, but also when driving fast on straight roads, e.g. highways. X Press button : repeatedly until indicator

lamps = and ? go out. You have selected Comfort mode. The AMG Suspension System COMFORT message appears in the multifunction display.

Storing and calling up settings Once the suspension tuning and drive program have been selected, you can store and call up your settings using AMG button ;. X To store: press AMG button ; until you

hear a tone.

X To call up: press AMG button ;.

The stored suspension tuning and drive program are selected.

X To display: briefly press AMG button ;. Your selection appears in the multifunction display.

4MATIC (permanent four-wheel drive) 4MATIC ensures that all four wheels are permanently driven. Together with ESP®, it improves the traction of your vehicle whenever a drive wheel spins due to insufficient grip.

G WARNING If a drive wheel is spinning due to insufficient traction: RWhile 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 4MATIC cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed.

! Never tow the vehicle with one axle

raised. This may damage the transfer case. Damage of this sort is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. All wheels must remain either on the ground or be fully raised. Observe the instructions for towing the vehicle with all wheels in full contact with the ground.

i In wintry driving conditions, the maximum

effect of 4MATIC can only be achieved if you use winter tires (M+S tires), with snow chains if necessary.

PARKTRONIC Important safety notes G WARNING The PARKTRONIC is a supplemental system. It is not intended to, nor does it replace, the need for extreme care. The responsibility during parking and other critical maneuvers always remains with the driver. G WARNING Make sure no persons or animals are in or near the area in which you are parking/ maneuvering. Otherwise, they could be injured.

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PARKTRONIC is an electronic parking aid with ultrasonic sensors. It indicates visually and audibly the distance between your vehicle and an object. PARKTRONIC is activated automatically when you: Rswitch on the ignition Rshift the transmission to position D, R or N Rrelease the parking brake PARKTRONIC is deactivated at speeds above 11 mph (18 km/h). It is reactivated at lower speeds. PARKTRONIC monitors the area around your vehicle using six sensors in the front bumper and four sensors in the rear bumper.

Side view

: Sensors in the front bumper, left-hand

side (example)

Range of the sensors General notes The sensors must be free of dirt, ice and slush; otherwise they may not function correctly. Clean the sensors regularly, taking care not to scratch or damage them (Y page 289).

Top view Front sensors Center

Corners

Rear sensors Center

Corners

Approximately 40 in (approximately 100 cm) Approximately 24 in (approximately 60 cm)

Approximately 48 in (approximately 120 cm) Approximately 32 in (approximately 80 cm)

! When parking, pay particular attention to objects above or below the sensors, such as flower pots or trailer drawbars. PARKTRONIC does not detect such objects when they are in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle. You could damage the vehicle or the objects. The sensors may not detect snow and other objects that absorb ultrasonic waves.

Ultrasonic sources such as an automatic car wash, the compressed-air brakes on a truck or a pneumatic drill could cause PARKTRONIC to malfunction. PARKTRONIC may not function correctly on uneven terrain.

Minimum distance Center

Corners

Approximately 8 in (approximately 20 cm) Approximately 6 in (approximately 15 cm)

If there is an obstacle within this range, the relevant warning displays light up and a warning tone sounds. If the distance falls below the minimum, the distance may no longer be shown.

Warning displays The warning displays show the distance between the sensors and the obstacle. The warning display for the front area is located on the dashboard above the center air vents. The warning display for the rear area is located on the headliner in the rear compartment.

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The warning display for each side of the vehicle is divided into five yellow and two red segments. PARKTRONIC is operational if yellow segments showing operational readiness = light up. The selected transmission position and the direction in which the vehicle is rolling determine which warning display is active when the engine is running. Transmission position R, N or the vehicle is rolling backwards

Front area activated Rear and front areas activated

Warning display

No areas activated

One or more segments light up as the vehicle approaches an obstacle, depending on the vehicle's distance from the obstacle. From the: Rsixth segment onwards, you will hear an

intermittent warning tone for approximately two seconds.

Rseventh segment onwards, you will hear a

warning tone for approximately two seconds. This indicates that you have now reached the minimum distance.

Deactivating/activating PARKTRONIC

Warning display for the front area : Segments on the left-hand side of the

vehicle

; Segments on the right-hand side of the

vehicle

= Segments showing operational readiness

: Indicator lamp ; To deactivate/activate PARKTRONIC

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If indicator lamp : lights up, PARKTRONIC is deactivated. Active Park Assist is then also deactivated. i PARKTRONIC is automatically activated when you turn the SmartKey to position 2
in the ignition lock.

Problems with PARKTRONIC

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Problem Only the red segments in the PARKTRONIC warning displays are lit. You also hear a warning tone for approximately two seconds. PARKTRONIC is deactivated after approximately 20 seconds, and the indicator lamp in the PARKTRONIC button lights up.

Only the red segments in the PARKTRONIC warning displays are lit. PARKTRONIC is deactivated after approximately 20
seconds.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions PARKTRONIC has malfunctioned and has switched off. X If problems persist, have PARKTRONIC checked at a qualified

specialist workshop.

The PARKTRONIC sensors are dirty or there is interference. X Clean the PARKTRONIC sensors (Y page 289). X Switch the ignition back on. The problem may be caused by an external source of radio or ultrasound waves. X See if PARKTRONIC functions in a different location.

Active Parking Assist Important safety notes Active Parking Assist is an electronic parking aid with ultrasound. Ultrasound is used to measure the road on both sides of the vehicle. A suitable parking space is indicated by the parking symbol. Active steering intervention can assist you during parking. You may also use PARKTRONIC (Y page 171). When PARKTRONIC is switched off, Active Parking Assist is also unavailable. G WARNING Active Parking Assist is merely an aid and may sometimes recommend parking spaces that are not suitable for parking. For example, these might be spaces where parking is prohibited, driveways, unsuitable surfaces, etc.

Active Parking Assist measures the parking space as you drive past it. Any later changes to the parking space are not taken into account. For instance, this may be the case when the vehicle parked in front of or behind the space changes its position or when an obstacle is moved into the parking space. Active Parking Assist does not relieve you of the responsibility of paying attention. If you rely solely on Active Parking Assist, you could cause an accident and injure yourself and others. You are always responsible for safety and must continue to pay attention to your immediate surroundings when parking and maneuvering.

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G WARNING Objects located above the height range of Active Parking Assist will not be detected when the parking space is measured. These are not taken into account when the parking procedure is calculated, e.g. overhanging loads, tail sections or loading ramps of goods vehicles. In some circumstances, Active Parking Assist may therefore guide you into the parking space too early. This may lead to a collision. For this reason, you should avoid using Active Parking Assist in such situations. G WARNING The front of the vehicle will veer out in the direction of the oncoming traffic during the parking operation. In some cases, the vehicle will also take you onto sections of the oncoming lane during the parking procedure. You are responsible for safety at all times and must pay attention to any road users approaching or passing. Stop the vehicle if necessary or cancel the Active Parking Assist parking procedure. G WARNING Make sure no persons or animals are in or near the area in which you are parking/ maneuvering. Otherwise, they could be injured.

Use Active Parking Assist for parking spaces: Rthat are parallel to the direction of travel Rthat are on straight roads, not bends Rthat are on the same level as the road, e.g.

not on the pavement

Parking tips: Ron narrow roads, drive past the parking

space as close as possible.

Rparking spaces that are littered, overgrown

or partially occupied by trailer drawbars might be identified incorrectly or not at all. Rsnowfall or heavy rain may lead to a parking

space being measured inaccurately.

Rpay attention to the PARKTRONIC

(Y page 173) warning messages during the parking procedure.

Ryou can intervene in the steering procedure

to correct it at any time. Active Parking Assist will then be canceled.

Rwhen transporting a load which protrudes

from your vehicle, you should not use Active Parking Assist.

Rnever use Active Parking Assist when snow

chains or an emergency spare wheel are mounted.

Rmake sure that the tire pressures are

always correct. This has a direct influence on the parking characteristics of the vehicle.

Rthe way your vehicle is positioned in the parking space after parking is dependent on various factors. These include the position and shape of the vehicles parked in front and behind it and the conditions of the location. In some cases, Active Parking Assist may guide you too far into a parking space, or not far enough into it. In some cases, it may also lead you across or onto the curb. If necessary, you should abort the parking procedure with Active Parking Assist.

Ryou can also engage forward gear

prematurely. The vehicle redirects and does not drive as far into the parking space. Should the gear change occur too soon to achieve a sensible parking position, the parking procedure will be aborted.

! If unavoidable, you should drive over

obstacles such as curbs slowly and not at a sharp angle. Otherwise, you may damage the wheels or tires.

Detecting a parking space Active Parking Assist is switched on automatically when driving forwards. The system is operational at speeds of up to approximately 22 mph (35 km/h). While in operation, the system independently locates

and measures parking spaces on both sides of the vehicle. When driving at speeds below 19 mph (30 km/h), you will see the parking symbol as a status indicator in the instrument cluster. By default, Active Parking Assist only displays parking spaces on the front- passenger side. Parking spaces on the driver's side are displayed as soon as the turn signal on the driver's side is activated. If you wish to park in a space on the driver's side, the indicator on the driver's side must remain on. This must remain switched on until you acknowledge the use of Active Parking Assist by pressing the a button on the multifunction steering wheel. When a parking space has been detected, an arrow towards the right or the left also appears.

Detected parking space (example) : Detected parking space on the left ; Parking symbol = Detected parking space on the right Active Parking Assist will only detect parking spaces: Rthat are parallel to the direction of travel Rat least 59 in (1.5 m) wide Rat least 51 in (1.3 m) longer than your

vehicle

A parking space will be displayed to you as you drive by until you are approximately 50 ft (15 m) away from it.

Parking G WARNING PARKTRONIC and Active Parking Assist are merely parking aids and may not detect all

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obstacles. They do not relieve you of the responsibility of paying attention. You are always responsible for safety and must continue to pay attention to your immediate surroundings when parking and maneuvering. You could otherwise endanger yourself and others.

X Stop the vehicle when the parking space

symbol shows the desired parking space in the instrument cluster. X Shift the transmission to position R. The Start Park Assist? Yes: OK No: % message appears in the multifunction display.

X To cancel the procedure: press the

% button on the multifunction steering wheel or pull away.

or X To park using Active Parking Assist:

press the a button on the multifunction steering wheel. The Park Assist Active Accelerate and Brake Observe Surroundings message appears in the multifunction display. G WARNING When parking, you need to make sure that no obstacles are located in the vicinity of the vehicle during the entire operation. Active Parking Assist does not relieve you of the responsibility of paying attention. It merely aids you by intervening actively in the steering. To stop the vehicle or to avoid an accident, you need to apply the brakes yourself.

X Let go of the multifunction steering wheel. X Back up the vehicle, being ready to brake

at all times. Do not exceed a speed of approximately 5 mph (10 km/h) while backing up; Active Parking Assist will otherwise be canceled.

i In tight parking spaces, you will achieve the best parking results by backing up as

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far as possible. When doing so, also observe the PARKTRONIC messages.

X Stop as soon as PARKTRONIC sounds the

continuous warning tone, if not before. Maneuvering may be required in tight parking spaces. The Park Assist Active Select D Observe Surroundings message appears in the multifunction display. X Shift the transmission to position D while

the vehicle is stationary. Active Parking Assist immediately steers in the other direction. The Park Assist Active Accelerate and Brake Observe Surroundings message appears in the multifunction display.

i You will achieve the best parking results

by waiting for the steering procedure to complete before moving forwards.

X Drive forwards and be ready to brake at all

times.

X Stop as soon as PARKTRONIC sounds the continuous warning tone, if not before. The Park Assist Active Select R Observe Surroundings message appears in the multifunction display. X Further transmission shifts may be

necessary. As soon as the parking procedure is complete, the Park Assist Disabled message appears in the multifunction display. PARKTRONIC continues to be available. X Maneuver if necessary. X Always observe the warning messages

displayed by PARKTRONIC (Y page 173).

Canceling Active Parking Assist You can cancel Active Parking Assist at any time.

X Stop the movement of the multifunction

steering wheel or steer yourself. Active Parking Assist will be canceled at once. The Park Assist Canceled message appears in the multifunction display.

or X Press the PARKTRONIC button on the

center console (Y page 173). PARKTRONIC is switched off and Active Parking Assist is immediately canceled. The Park Assist Canceled message appears in the multifunction display.

Active Parking Assist is canceled automatically if: Rthe transmission is shifted too early. Rparking using Active Parking Assist is no

longer possible.

Ryou are driving faster than 6 mph

(10 km/h).

Ra wheel spins, ESP® intervenes or fails. The

ä warning lamp lights up in the instrument cluster. A warning tone sounds. The parking space symbol disappears and the Park Assist Canceled message appears in the multifunction display. When Active Parking Assist is canceled, you must steer again yourself.

Rear view camera Important safety notes The rear view camera is an optical parking aid. It shows the area behind your vehicle in the COMAND display. G WARNING Make sure that no persons or animals are in the maneuvering range. Otherwise, they could be injured.

The rear view camera is located in the handle strip of the trunk lid.

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The rear view camera is located in the handle strip of the trunk lid.

: Rear view camera

View through the camera The area behind the vehicle is displayed as a mirror image, as in the rear-view mirror. G WARNING The rear view camera is only an aid and may display obstacles Rfrom a distorted perspective Rinaccurately Rmay not display obstacles at all The rear view camera does not relieve you of the responsibility to be cautious. Take care and pay careful attention. The rear view camera may not show objects which are Rvery close to the rear bumper Runder the rear bumper Rabove the trunk handle You are responsible for safety at all times and must continue to pay attention to the immediate surroundings when parking and maneuvering. This includes the area behind, in front of, and beside the vehicle. Otherwise you could endanger yourself and/or others. G WARNING The rear view camera will not function or will not fully function if:

Rthe trunk lid is open Rit is raining or snowing strongly or if it is

foggy

Rit is night or if you are parking/

maneuvering your vehicle in a very dark area

Ra very bright white light is affecting the

camera

Rthe immediate vicinity is illuminated with

fluorescent light (the display of the COMAND system can flicker)

Rtemperature changes abruptly, for example

if you drive out of the cold into a heated garage (condensation on the lens) Rthe camera lens is dirty or covered Rthe rear of your vehicle is damaged

In this case, have the position and the setting of the camera checked at a specialist workshop. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you consult a Mercedes- Benz Center for this purpose.

Do not use the rear view camera in these situations. You could otherwise injure yourself and other people and/or cause damage - including damage to your vehicle - while parking/maneuvering.

Activating the rear view camera X Make sure that the SmartKey is in position

2 in the ignition lock.

X Make sure that the "rear view camera"

function is selected in COMAND (see the separate operating instructions for COMAND).

X Engage reverse gear.

The area behind the vehicle is shown in the COMAND display.

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ATTENTION ASSIST Important safety notes ATTENTION ASSIST helps you during long, monotonous journeys such as on freeways and interstate highways. It is active in the range between 50 mph (80 km/h) and 112 mph (180 km/h). If ATTENTION ASSIST detects typical indicators of fatigue or increasing lapses in concentration on the part of the driver, it suggests you take a break.