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Tires and wheels


Maximum tire inflation pressure


1 Maximum permissible tire inflation


pressure


For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.


This is the maximum permissible tire inflation pressure for the tire.


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Always follow the recommended tire inflation pressure (컄 page 320) for proper tire inflation.


Warning!


Never exceed the max. tire inflation pressure. Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.


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


Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride com- fort, wear unevenly, increase stopping dis- tance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road de- bris, potholes etc.


Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards (U.S. vehicles)


Tire manufacturers are required to grade tires based on three performance factors: treadwear, traction and temperature resistance.


1 Treadwear 2 Traction 3 Temperature resistance


For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.


Quality grades can be found, where appli- cable, on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:


Treadwear Traction Temperature 200


AA


All passenger car tires must conform to federal safety requirements in addition to these grades.


Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rat- ing based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For ex- ample, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.


Operation Tires and wheels


Traction The traction grades, from highest to low- est, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades rep- resent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction perfor- mance.


Warning!


The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.


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Operation Tires and wheels


Temperature The temperature grades are A (the high- est), B, and C, representing the tire’s resis- tance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high tem- perature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and ex- cessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Mo- tor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.


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Warning!


Tire ply material


The temperature grade for this tire is estab- lished for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underin- flation, or excessive loading, either sepa- rately or in combination, can cause excessive heat build-up and possible tire failure.


1 Plies in sidewall 2 Plies under tread


For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration.


This marking tells you about the type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread.


Tire and loading terminology


Accessory weight The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory-installed equipment (whether installed or not).


Air pressure The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in pounds per square inch (psi), or kilopascal (kPa) or bars.


Aspect ratio Dimensional relationship between tire section height and section width expressed in percentage.


Bar Another metric unit for air pressure. There are 14.5038 pounds per square inch (psi) to 1 bar; there are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to 1 bar.


Bead The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.


Cold tire inflation pressure Tire inflation pressure when your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than one mile (1.6 km).


Curb weight The weight of a motor vehicle with stan- dard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, and, if so equipped, air conditioning and additional optional equipment, but without passen- gers and cargo.


Operation Tires and wheels


DOT (Department of Transportation) A tire branding symbol which denotes the tire meets requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation.


GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) The GAWR is the maximum permissible axle weight. The gross vehicle weight on each axle must never exceed the GAWR for the front and rear axle indicated on the certification label located on the driver's door B-pillar.


GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) The GVW comprises the weight of the vehicle including fuel, tools, spare wheel, installed accessories, passengers and cargo and, if applicable, trailer tongue load. The GWV must never exceed the GWVR indicated on the certification label located on the driver's door B-pillar.


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Operation Tires and wheels


GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) This is the maximum permissible vehicle weight of the fully loaded vehicle (weight of the vehicle including all options, passen- gers, fuel, and cargo and, if applicable, trailer tongue load). It is indicated on certification label located on the driver's door B-pillar.


Kilopascal (kPa) The metric unit for air pressure. There are 6.9 kPa to one psi; another metric unit for air pressure is bars. There are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to one bar.


Maximum load rating The maximum load in kilograms and pounds that can be carried by the tire.


Maximum loaded vehicle weight The sum of curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight and production options weight.


Maximum tire inflation pressure This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire under normal driving conditions.


Normal occupant weight The number of occupants the vehicle is designed to seat, multiplied by 68 kilograms (150 lbs).


Occupant distribution The distribution of occupants in a vehicle at their designated seating positions.


Production options weight The combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over 5 lbs (2.3 kilograms) in excess of those standard items which they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy duty brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special trim.


PSI (Pounds per square inch) A standard unit of measure for air pressure -> bar, kilopascal (kPa).


Recommended tire inflation pressure Recommended tire inflation pressure listed on placard located on driver's door B-pillar for normal driving conditions. Provides best handling, tread life and riding comfort.


Rim A metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads are seated.


Sidewall The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead.


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Operation Tires and wheels


TIN (Tire Identification Number) Unique identifier which facilitates efforts by tire manufacturers to notify purchasers in recall situations or other safety matters concerning tires and gives purchases the means to easily identify such tires. The TIN is comprised of “Manufacturer's identifica- tion mark”, “Tire size”, “Tire type code” and “Date of manufacture”.


Tire load rating Numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can support.


Tire ply composition and material used This indicates the number of plies or the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and sidewall. Tire manufac- turers also must indicate the ply materials in the tire and sidewall, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.


Tire speed rating Part of tire designation; indicates the speed range for which a tire is approved.


Traction Force exerted by the vehicle on the road via the tires. The amount of grip provided.


Tread The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road.


Treadwear indicators Narrow bands, sometimes called “wear bars” that show across the tread of a tire when only 1/6 in (1.6 mm) of tread remains.


Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards A tire information system that provides consumers with ratings for a tire's traction, temperature and treadwear. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using government testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the sidewall of the tire.


Vehicle capacity weight Rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kilograms (150 lbs) times the vehicle's designated seating capacity.


Vehicle maximum load on the tire Load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and dividing it by two.


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Operation Tires and wheels


Rotating tires


Warning!


Rotate front and rear wheels only if they are of the same size. If your vehicle is equipped with mixed-size tires (different tire dimensions front vs. rear), tire rotation is not possible.


Tire rotation can be performed on vehicles with tires of the same dimension all around. If your vehicle is equipped with tires of the same dimension all around, tires can be rotated, observing a front-to-rear rotation pattern that will maintain the intended rotation (spinning) direction of the tire (컄 page 314). In some cases, such as when your vehicle is equipped with mixed-size tires (different tire dimension front vs. rear), tire rotation is not possible.


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If applicable to your vehicle's tire configu- ration, tires can be rotated according to the tire manufacturer's recommended in- tervals in the tire manufacturer's warranty pamphlet located in your vehicle literature portfolio. If none is available, tires should be rotated every 3000 to 6 000 miles (5000 to 10 000 km), or sooner if neces- sary, according to the degree of tire wear. The same rotation (spinning) direction must be maintained (컄 page 314). Rotate tires before the characteristic tire wear pattern becomes visible (shoulder wear on front tires and tread center wear on rear tires). Thoroughly clean the mounting face of wheels and brake disks, i.e. the inner side of the wheels/tires, during each rotation. Check for and ensure proper tire inflation pressure, activating the tire pressure mon- itoring system* if necessary.


If your vehicle is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system*, there are electronic components built into the wheel. Do not use mounting tools in the area of the valve as they could damage the electronic components. To prevent damage or incorrect instal- lation, have the tires changed at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


Warning!


Have the tightening torque checked after changing a wheel. Wheels could become loose if not tightened with a torque of 96 lb-ft (130 Nm).


Only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for your vehicle's rims.


For information on wheel change, see the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 407) and (컄 page 425).


왔 Winter driving Before the onset of winter, have your vehi- cle winterized at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. This service in- cludes: 앫 Check of anticorrosion and antifreeze


concentration


앫 Addition of cleaning concentrate to the water of the windshield and headlamp cleaning system Add MB Concentrate “S” to a premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze which is formulated for temperatures below freezing point (컄 page 467).


앫 Battery test


Battery capacity drops with decreasing ambient temperature. A well charged battery helps to make sure that the en- gine can be started and the SBC brake system will be fully operational, even at low ambient temperatures.


앫 Tire change


Mercedes-Benz recommends M+S rat- ed radial-ply tires with a minimum tread depth of approximately 1/6 in (4 mm) on all four wheels for the winter sea- son.


Winter tires


Always use winter tires at temperatures below 45°F (7°C) and whenever wintry road conditions prevail. Use of winter tires is the only way to achieve the maximum ef- fectiveness of the ABS, ESP and 4MATIC in winter operation. For safe handling, make sure that all mounted winter tires are of the same make and have the same tread design.


Warning!


Winter tires with a tread depth of less than 1/6 in (4 mm) must be replaced. They are no longer suitable for winter operation.


Operation Winter driving


Always observe the speed rating of the winter tires installed on your vehicle. If the maximum speed for which your tires are rated is below the speed rating of your ve- hicle, you must place a notice to this effect where it will be seen by the driver. Such no- tices are available at your tire dealer or any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


Warning!


If you use your spare tire when winter tires are fitted on the other wheels, be aware that the difference in tire characteristics may very well impair turning stability and that overall driving stability may be reduced. Adapt your driving style accordingly.


Have the spare tire replaced with a winter tire at the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


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! Even on vehicles with all-wheel-drive, use snow chains on rear tires only. Use of snow chains is not permissible with tire sizes: 앫 265/35 ZR18
앫 T 155/70 R17 110M 앫 T 175/55-18 95P


Operation Winter driving


Block heater* (Canada only)


The engine is equipped with a block heat- er. The electrical cable may be installed at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


When driving with snow chains, you may wish to deactivate the ESP (컄 page 89) before setting the vehicle in motion. This will improve the vehi- cle’s traction.


Snow chains


When driving with snow chains, always select the raised level of the level con- trol system Airmatic* (컄 page 248). Other settings may result in damage to your vehicle.


Snow chains should only be driven on snow-covered roads at speeds not to ex- ceed 30 mph (50 km/h). Remove chains as soon as possible when driving on roads without snow.


Please observe the following guidelines when using snow chains: 앫 Use of snow chains is not permissible


with all wheel/tire combinations.


앫 Snow chains should only be used on the rear wheels. Follow the manufac- turer's mounting instructions.


앫 Only use snow chains that are ap-


proved by Mercedes-Benz. Your autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to advise you on this subject.


앫 Use of snow chains may be prohibited depending on location. Always check local and state laws before installing snow chains.


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Operation Maintenance


Service A in XXXX miles (km) Service A in XX days Service A in X day Service A due now!


The maintenance services will be indicated by showing a service type A through type H in the multifunction display. Types A through H are classified based on estimat- ed time needed to perform the mainte- nance service, ranging: from


Service A


(approx. one hour)


to


Service H


(approx. eight hours)


When the service type appears, you can use the vehicle’s control system to view a list of the service items (1-14) that need to be performed at the called for service type (컄 page 347).


The additional + after the type of ser- vice indicates the degree of wear of the brake pads. The brake pads may reach their wear limit in the time period up to the next service interval. Have the brake pads checked and, if necessary, replaced by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center during your next service appointment.


왔 Maintenance We strongly recommend that you have your vehicle serviced by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, in accordance with the Maintenance Booklet at the times called for by the maintenance service indi- cator display. Failure to have the vehicle maintained in accordance with the Maintenance Booklet and maintenance service indicator at the designated times/mileage will result in ve- hicle damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. The maintenance service indicator will no- tify you when your next maintenance ser- vice is due. Starting approximately one month before maintenance service is due, one of the fol- lowing messages will appear in the multi- function display while you are driving or when you switch on the ignition (example service A):


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Operation Maintenance


Vehicles equipped with FSS PLUS (Flexible Service System PLUS) only (Canada vehicles): The interval be- tween maintenance services depends on your driving habits. A gentle driving style, moderate engine speeds and the avoidance of short-distance trips will lengthen the interval between services.


Clearing the maintenance service indicator


You can clear the maintenance service in- dicator.


왘 Press the reset button 1 on the left


side of the instrument cluster. The maintenance service indicator is cleared and the standard display ap- pears in the multifunction display.


Maintenance service term exceeded


If you have exceeded the suggested main- tenance service term, you will see the fol- lowing message in the multifunction display:


Service A exceeded by XXXXX miles (km) Service A exceeded by XXX days Service A exceeded by X day


In addition, a signal sounds when the mes- sage appears. Any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will reset the maintenance service indicator following a completed maintenance service.


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Calling up the maintenance service indicator


Resetting the maintenance service indicator


In the event that the maintenance service on your vehicle is not carried out by an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center, you can have the maintenance service indicator re- set. The automotive maintenance facility carrying out the maintenance service will find the information for resetting the main- tenance service indicator in the mainte- nance-relevant information for your vehicle. Such information is available from either your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or directly from Mercedes-Benz.


왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 33).


The standard display of the control sys- tem appears (컄 page 145).


왘 Press button k or j on the mul-


tifunction steering wheel until the maintenance service indicator with the service symbol 9 or ´ and the service deadline appears in the multi- function display.


If the battery is disconnected, the days of disconnection will not be included in the count shown by the maintenance service indicator. To arrive at the true maintenance service deadline, you will need to subtract these days from the days shown in the maintenance service indicator. Do not confuse the maintenance ser- vice indicator with the engine oil level indicator :.


Operation Maintenance


If the maintenance service indicator was inadvertently reset, have an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center correct it. Only reset if the proper maintenance service has been performed. Resetting the system without performing the proper service as called for by the maintenance service indicator will re- sult in engine damage and/or other ve- hicle damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.


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Operation Maintenance


Setting the date for special works


You can enter appointments for exhaust gas analysis and general inspection using the maintenance system. 왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 33).


The standard display of the control sys- tem appears (컄 page 145).


왘 Press button k or j on the mul-


tifunction steering wheel until the maintenance indicator appears in the multifunction display.


왘 Press the reset button (컄 page 24) for


about five seconds. The Service menu appears in the multi- function display.


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왘 Select the Addit. Work menu with the


+ or - button. 왘 Press the ÿ button.


The service indicator now displays the Addit. Work menu.


왘 Press the ÿ button.


The service indicator now displays the Next due date menu.


왘 Select the Month and Year with the


+ or - button.


왘 Select the Exh.-gas analysis or


왘 Press button k or j on the mul-


General inspection menu with the + or - button.


tifunction steering wheel to set the month and year.


왘 Select Confirm with the + or -


button.


왘 Press the ÿ button.


The new date is set.


Calling up the service item menu 왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 33).


The standard display of the control sys- tem appears (컄 page 145).


왘 Press button k or j on the mul-


tifunction steering wheel until the maintenance service indicator appears in the multifunction display.


왘 Press the reset button (컄 page 24) for


about five seconds. The Service menu appears in the multi- function display (컄 page 145).


왘 Select the Items menu with the +


or - button.


왘 Press the ÿ button.


왘 Press the è button on the multi-


function steering wheel until the stan- dard display appears in the multifunction display.


The maintenance service system now re- calculates the values. You cannot call up the maintenance service display or the ser- vice menu during this time.


Calling up the maintenance service data information


The maintenance service indicator shows the maintenance service type (letters A-H) in the multifunction display approximately one month before the service appointment is due in miles (distance criterion) or in days (time criterion). This maintenance service type is based on the service items to be carried out. The service items are described in the Mainte- nance Booklet. The service items to be carried out under the corresponding service type can be dis- played in the multifunction display.


Operation Maintenance


The service indicator now displays the Items menu.


The maintenance service items to be carried out are shown in this menu. Please refer to the Maintenance Book- let for a description of each mainte- nance service item.


왘 Press button è on the multifunction


steering wheel until the standard display appears in the multifunction display.


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Operation Vehicle care


Cleaning and care of vehicle


Warning!


Many cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are poisonous, others are flammable. Always follow the instructions on the partic- ular container. Always open your vehicle’s doors or windows when cleaning the inside.


Never use fluids or solvents that are not de- signed for cleaning your vehicle.


While in operation, even while parked, your vehicle is subjected to varying external in- fluences which, if gone unchecked, can at- tack the paintwork as well as the underbody and cause lasting damage.


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Such damage is caused not only by ex- treme and varying climatic conditions, but also by: 앫 Air pollution 앫 Road salt 앫 Tar 앫 Gravel and stone chipping To avoid paint damage, you should imme- diately remove: 앫 Grease and oil 앫 Fuel 앫 Coolant 앫 Brake fluid 앫 Bird droppings 앫 Insects 앫 Tree resins etc. Frequent washing reduces and/or elimi- nates the aggressiveness and potency of the above adverse influences.


More frequent washings are necessary to deal with unfavorable conditions: 앫 near the ocean 앫 in industrial areas (smoke, exhaust


emissions)


앫 during winter operation You should check your vehicle from time to time for stone chipping or other damage. Any damage should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent corrosion. In doing so, do not neglect the underbody of the vehicle. A prerequisite for a thor- ough check is a washing of the underbody followed by a thorough inspection. Dam- aged areas need to be re-undercoated. Your vehicle has been treated at the facto- ry with a wax-base rustproofing in the body cavities which will last for the lifetime of the vehicle. Post-production treatment is neither necessary nor recommended by Mercedes-Benz because of the possibility of incompatibility between materials used in the production process and others ap- plied later.


Operation Vehicle care


We have selected car-care products and compiled recommendations which are specially matched to our vehicles and which always reflect the latest technology. You can obtain Mercedes-Benz approved car-care products at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosion or damage due to negligent or incorrect care cannot always be removed or repaired with the car-care products recommended here. In such cases it is best to seek aid at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center. The following topics deal with the cleaning and care of your vehicle and give important “how-to” information as well as references to Mercedes-Benz approved car-care prod- ucts.


Power washer When using a power wash for cleaning the vehicle, always observe the manufactur- er’s operating instructions.


Tar stains Quickly remove tar stains before they dry and become more difficult to remove. A tar remover is recommended.


Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO*: If a door handle is hit by a strong jet of water, and a SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* is in close proximity, i.e. within approximately 3 ft (approxi- mately 1 m), the vehicle could be inad- vertently locked or unlocked.


Never use a round nozzle to power-wash tires. The intense jet of water can result in damage to the tire. Always replace a damaged tire. Always keep the jet of water moving across the surface. Do not aim directly at electrical parts, electrical connec- tors, seals, or other rubber parts.


Paintwork, painted body components Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Care should be applied when water drops on the paint surface do not“bead up”, normally every three to five months, depending on climate and washing detergent used. Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Cleaner should be applied if the paint surface shows signs of embedded dirt (i.e. loss of gloss). Do not apply any of these products or wax if your vehicle is parked in the sun or if the hood is still hot. Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up Stick for quick and provisional repairs of minor paint damage (i.e. chips from stones, vehi- cle doors, etc.).


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Operation Vehicle care


Engine cleaning Prior to cleaning the engine compartment, make sure to protect electrical compo- nents and connectors from contact with water and cleaning agents. Corrosion protection, such as MB Anticor- rosion Wax should be applied to the engine compartment after every engine cleaning. Before applying, all control linkage bush- ings and joints should be lubricated. The poly-V-belt and all pulleys should be pro- tected from any wax.


Vehicle washing Do not use hot water or wash your vehicle in direct sunlight. Only use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz ap- proved Car Shampoo. Thoroughly spray the vehicle with a dif- fused jet of water. Direct only a very weak spray towards the ventilation intake. Use plenty of water and rinse the sponge and chamois frequently.


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Rinse with clear water and thoroughly dry with a chamois. Do not allow cleaning agents to dry on the finish. Due to the width of the vehicle, fold in exterior rear view mirrors prior to running the vehicle through an automatic car wash to prevent damage to the mirrors. In the winter, thoroughly remove all traces of road salt as soon as possible. When washing the underbody, do not for- get to clean the inner sides of the wheels.


Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO*: If a door handle is hit by a strong jet of water, and a SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* is in close proximity, i.e. within approximately 3 ft (approxi- mately 1 m), the vehicle could be inad- vertently locked or unlocked.


Ornamental moldings For regular cleaning and care of very dirty chrome-plated parts, use a chrome clean- er.


Headlamps, tail lamps, side markers, turn signal lenses Use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo, with plenty of water. To prevent scratches, never apply strong force and only use a soft, non-scratchy cloth when cleaning the lenses. Do not at- tempt to wipe dirty lenses with a dry cloth or sponge.


Cleaning the Distronic* system sensor cover


Cleaning the Parktronic system* sensors


1 Distronic system sensor cover Use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo, with plenty of water to clean sensor cover 1. To prevent scratches, never apply strong force and use only a soft, non-scratchy cloth when cleaning the sensor cover. Do not attempt to wipe dirty sensors with a dry cloth or sponge.


1 Parktronic system* sensors 왘 Clean the sensors 1 on the bumpers using a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Sham- poo, with plenty of water and a soft, non-scratchy cloth.


When using a steam cleaner or power washer, aim nozzle only briefly from a min- imum distance of 12 in (30 cm) at sensors 1. Do not apply strong pressure to the sensor cover, applying strong pressure may dam- age the sensor cover.


Operation Vehicle care


To prevent scratches, never apply strong force and use only a soft, non-scratchy cloth when cleaning the sensor. Do not at- tempt to wipe dirty sensors with a dry cloth or sponge.


Wiper blades


The windshield wipers must be in a ver- tical position before folding them away from the windshield. They could other- wise damage the hood.


왘 Turn on the wipers and place it in a ver-


tical position.


For information on placing the wipers in a vertical position, see “Replacing wiper blades” (컄 page 423).


컄컄


351


Use a window cleaning solution on all glass surfaces. An automotive glass cleaner is recommended.


Fold the windshield wiper arms back onto the windshield before turning the SmartKey in the starter switch. Hold on to the wiper when folding the wiper arm back. If released, the force of the impact from the tensioning spring could crack the windshield.


Operation Vehicle care


컄컄


Warning!


Window cleaning


For safety reasons, switch off wipers and re- move SmartKey from starter switch (vehi- cles with KEYLESS-GO*: Make sure the vehicle's on-board electronics have status 0) before cleaning the wiper blades. Other- wise, the wiper motor could suddenly turn on and cause injury.


왘 Clean the wiper blade inserts with a


clean cloth and detergent solution.


Fold the windshield wiper arms back onto the windshield before turning the SmartKey in the starter switch. Hold on to the wiper when folding the wiper arm back. If released, the force of the impact from the tensioning spring could crack the windshield.


The windshield wipers must be in a ver- tical position before folding them away from the windshield. They could other- wise damage the hood.


왘 Turn on the wipers and place it in a ver-


tical position.


For information on placing the wipers in a vertical position, see “Replacing wiper blades” (컄 page 423).


Warning!


For safety reasons, switch off wipers and re- move SmartKey from starter switch (vehi- cles with KEYLESS-GO*: Make sure the vehicle's on-board electronics have status 0) before cleaning the windshield. Other- wise, the wiper motor could suddenly turn on and cause injury.


352


Light alloy wheels Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care should be used for regular cleaning of the light alloy wheels. If possible, clean wheels once a week with Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care, us- ing a soft bristle brush and a strong spray of water. Follow the instructions on the container.


Only use acid-free cleaning materials. Acid could lead to corrosion.


Instrument cluster Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe with a cloth moist- ened in a lukewarm solution. Do not use scouring agents.


Steering wheel and gear selector lever Wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care.


Cup holder Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe with a cloth moist- ened in lukewarm solution. Do not use scouring agents.


Hard plastic trim items Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto a soft, lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure.


Headliner and shelf below rear window Clean with a soft bristle brush, or use a dry-shampoo cleaner in case of excessive dirt.


Operation Vehicle care


Seat belts The webbing must not be treated with chemical cleaning agents. Use only clear, lukewarm water and soap. Do not dry the webbing at temperatures above 176°F (80°C) or in direct sunlight.


Warning!


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.


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Operation Vehicle care


Leather upholstery Using aftermarket seat covers or wearing clothing that has the tendency to give off coloring (e.g. when wet, etc.) may cause the upholstery to become permanently dis- colored. By lining the seats with a proper intermediate cover, contact-discoloration will be prevented. Wipe leather upholstery with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care. Exercise particular care when cleaning per- forated leather as its underside should not become wet.


Nubuck leather upholstery (E 55 AMG) The nubuck leather upholstery is treated with a protective coating. Wipe nubuck leather upholstery with damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and other light stains. Carefully dab nubuck leather upholstery with a dry microfiber cloth to remove oil stains.


Do not use Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care or any solvents to clean nubuck leather upholstery. Avoid hard scrubbing on nubuck leath- er upholstery.


MB Tex upholstery Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto a soft, lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure.


Plastic and rubber parts Do not use oil or wax on these parts.


Wood trims Dampen cloth using water and use damp cloth to clean wood trims in your vehicle. Do not use solvents like tar remover or wheel cleaner nor polishes or waxes as these may be abrasive.


354


Practical hints What to do if …


Where will I find ...?


Unlocking/locking in an emergency


Opening/closing in an emergency


Replacing SmartKey batteries


Replacing bulbs


Replacing wiper blades


Flat tire


Bleeding the fuel system (Diesel engine only)


Batteries


Jump starting


Towing the vehicle


Fuses


355


Practical hints What to do if …


Lamps in instrument cluster


Problem - The yellow ABS malfunction indi- cator lamp comes on while driv- ing.


356


General information: If any of the following lamps in the instru- ment cluster fails to come on during the


bulb self-check when switching on the igni- tion, have the respective bulb checked and replaced if necessary.


Possible cause The ABS has detected a malfunction and has switched off. The BAS and the ESP are also switched off (see messages in display). The SBC brake system is still functioning nor- mally but without the ABS available. If the ABS control unit is malfunctioning, oth- er systems such as the Parktronic system*, Distronic*, or the automatic transmission may also be malfunctioning.


The charging voltage has fallen below 10 volts. The ABS has switched off. The battery may not be sufficiently charged.


Suggested solution 왘 Continue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability.


왘 Read and observe messages in the


display (컄 page 367).


왘 Have the system checked at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.


Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of an accident. 왘 Switch off electrical consumers that


are currently not needed, e.g. seat heating.


왘 If necessary, have the generator and


battery checked.


When the voltage is above this value again, the ABS is operational again.


Problem v The yellow ABS/ESP warning lamp comes on while driving.


v The yellow ABS/ESP warning


lamp flashes while driving.


Possible cause The ESP is deactivated. Risk of accident! Adapt your speed and driving to the prevail- ing road, weather, and traffic conditions.


The ABS, ESP or traction control has come into operation because of detected traction loss in at least one tire. Distronic* is deactivated.


Practical hints What to do if …


Suggested solution 왘 Switch the ESP back on (컄 page 90). If the ESP cannot be switched back on, have the system checked at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. 왘 When driving off, apply as little throt-


tle as possible.


왘 While driving, ease up on the acceler-


ator.


왘 Adapt your speed and driving to the


prevailing road and weather condi- tions.


왘 Do not deactivate the ESP.


Exceptions: (컄 page 90).


Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of accidents.


357


Practical hints What to do if …


Problem ; (USA only) 3 (Canada only)


The red brake warning lamp comes on while driving and you hear a warning sound.


Possible cause You are driving with the parking brake set.


Suggested solution 왘 Release the parking brake. 왘 Observe the additional message in


the display.


; (USA only) 3 (Canada only)


The red brake warning lamp comes on while driving.


앫 There is a malfunction in the SBC brake


왘 Risk of accident! Do not drive any fur-


system.


앫 There is insufficient brake fluid in the res-


ervoir.


ther. Consult a Mercedes-Benz Service Center. Under no circum- stances should you top up the brake fluid. This will not solve the problem.


Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can re- sult in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the brake fluid catching fire. You can be seriously burned.


If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness and leaks.


Warning!


Driving with the brake warning lamp illumi- nated can result in an accident. Have your brake system checked immediately if the brake warning lamp stays on. Do not add brake fluid before checking the brake system.


358


Problem ±


(USA only) (Canada only) The yellow engine malfunction indicator lamp comes on while driving.


Possible cause There is a malfunction in: 앫 The fuel management system 앫 The ignition system (Gasoline engine) 앫 The emission control system 앫 Systems which affect emissions Such malfunctions may result in excessive emissions values and may switch the engine to its limp-home (emergency operation) mode. A loss of pressure has been detected in the fuel system. The fuel cap may not be closed properly or the fuel system may be leaky.


Practical hints What to do if …


Suggested solution 왘 Have the vehicle checked as soon as


possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. An on-board diagnostic connector is used by the service station to link the vehicle to the shop diagnostics system. It allows the accurate identification of system malfunctions through the read- out of diagnostic trouble codes. It is lo- cated in the front left area of the footwell next to the parking brake.


왘 Check the fuel cap. If it is not closed properly: 왘 Close the fuel cap. If it is closed properly: 왘 Have the fuel system checked by an au-


thorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


359


Practical hints What to do if …


Possible cause Your fuel tank is empty.


Problem ±


(USA only) (Canada only) The yellow engine malfunction indicator lamp comes on while driving.


Diesel engine: The fuel tank is empty. The en- gine is running in emergency operation mode.


Diesel engine: The diesel engine electronics are malfunctioning. Full engine performance is not available.


Suggested solution 왘 After refuelling start, turn off and re-


start the engine three or four times in succession.


The limp-home mode is canceled. You do not need to have your vehicle checked.


왘 Bleed the fuel system (컄 page 432). The limp-home mode is canceled. You do not need to have your vehicle checked. 왘 Have the fuel system checked by an au-


thorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


360


Practical hints What to do if …


Problem D The red coolant warning lamp comes on when the engine is running.


D The red coolant warning lamp comes on while driving and you hear a warning sound.


l The red DTR warning lamp


comes on while driving.


Possible cause There is insufficient coolant in the reservoir.


Suggested solution 왘 Immediately add coolant to prevent


If this warning lamp comes on frequently, there is a leak in the cooling system. If the coolant level is correct, the electric ra- diator fan may be broken.


The coolant temperature has exceeded 257°F (125°C).


engine from overheating (컄 page 308).


왘 Have the cooling system checked. 왘 If the coolant temperature is below


257°F (125°C), you can continue driving to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


왘 Avoid high engine loads (e.g. driving


uphill) and stop-and-go driving.


왘 Stop as soon as possible and allow the engine and coolant to cool down.


You are too close to the vehicle in front of you to maintain selected speed.


왘 Apply the brakes immediately to in-


crease the following distance.


Warning!


catch fire. You could be seriously burned.


Driving when your engine is badly overheat- ed can cause some fluids which may have leaked into the engine compartment to


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


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


361


Practical hints What to do if …


Problem l The red DTR warning lamp


Possible cause 앫 You are gaining too rapidly on the vehicle


Suggested solution 왘 Apply the brakes immediately.


comes on while driving and you hear a warning chime sound.


W The yellow fuel tank reserve warning lamp comes on while driving.


< The red seat belt telltale comes on after starting the engine with all doors closed. The red seat belt telltale flashes and you additionally hear an in- termittent warning signal with in- creasing intensity for a maximum of 60 seconds when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 15 mph (25 km/h).


ahead of you.


앫 The distance warning system has recog- nized a stationary obstacle on your prob- able line of travel.


왘 Carefully observe the traffic situation. You may need to brake or maneuver to avoid hitting an obstacle.


The fuel level has gone below the reserve mark.


왘 Refuel at the next gas station


(컄 page 299).


The seat belt telltale reminds you and your front passenger to fasten your seat belts be- fore driving off. You and/or your front passenger have for- gotten to fasten your seat belts. There are items placed on the front passen- ger seat and therefore the system senses the front passenger seat as being occupied.


왘 Fasten your seat belts.


왘 Fasten your seat belts.


왘 Remove the items from the front pas-


senger seat and put them in a safe place.


362


Problem H The yellow warning lamp for the tire pressure monitoring system comes on.


Possible cause The tire pressure monitoring system de- tects a loss of pressure in at least one tire.


Warning!


When the tire pressure monitoring system warning light is lit, one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possi- ble, and inflate them to the proper pressure as indicated on the vehicle’s tire information placard. Driving on a significantly under-in- flated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.


Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehi- cle’s handling and stopping ability. Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when cold and set to the recom- mended inflation pressure as specified in the vehicle placard and owner’s manual.


Practical hints What to do if …


Suggested solution 왘 Bring the vehicle to a halt, avoiding


abrupt steering and braking maneuvers. Observe the traffic situation around you. 왘 Take note of the messages in the multi-


function display.


The warning lamp goes out once the tire pressure monitoring system has been reac- tivated after the tire inflation pressures have been corrected.


The recommended tire inflation pres- sures for your vehicle can be found on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or the inside of the fuel filler flap, not in the owner’s manual.


363


Practical hints What to do if …


Problem 1 The red SRS indicator lamp


comes on while driving.


Possible cause There is a malfunction in the restraint sys- tems. The air bags or emergency tensioning devices (ETDs) could deploy unexpectedly or fail to activate in an accident.


Suggested solution 왘 Drive with added caution to the near-


est authorized Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter.


Warning!


In the event a malfunction of the SRS is indi- cated as outlined above, the SRS may not be operational. For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the system checked; otherwise the SRS may not be activated when needed in an acci- dent, which could result in serious or fatal injury, or it might deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could also result in an accident and/or injury to you or to others.


364


Possible cause The system is malfunctioning.


Lamp in center console


Problem 75


The indicator lamp illuminates and remains illuminated with the weight of a typical adult or someone larger than a small individual on the front passenger seat.


Warning!


If the 75 indicator lamp illumi- nates and remains illuminated with the weight of a typical adult or someone larger than a small individual on the front passen- ger seat, do not have any passenger use the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.


Practical hints What to do if …


Suggested solution 왘 Have the system checked as soon as


possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


왘 Also note any messages in the


multifunction display and follow cor- rective steps (컄 page 374).


365


Practical hints What to do if …


Problem 75


The indicator lamp does not illuminate and/or does not remain illuminated with the weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint or less on the front passenger seat.


Possible cause The system is malfunctioning. 왘 Make sure that there is nothing between seat cush- ion and child seat and check installation of the child seat.


Suggested solution


왘 Make sure that no objects applying supplemental


weight onto the seat are present.


왘 Make sure that no objects which apply forces to the seat are present (e.g. objects such as books, brief- cases etc. lodged behind or around the seat, head restraints pushing against roof etc.). The system may recognize such forces as supplemental weight. 왘 If the light remains out, have the system checked as soon as possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not transport a child on the front passen- ger seat until the system has been repaired.


왘 Also note any messages in the multifunction display


and follow corrective steps (컄 page 374).


Warning!


If the 75 indicator lamp does not illuminate or remains out with the


weight of a typical 12-month-old child in a standard child restraint or less on the front passenger seat, do not transport a child on the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.


366


Vehicle status messages in the multi- function display


Warning and malfunction messages ap- pear in the multifunction display located in the instrument cluster. Certain warning and malfunction messag- es are accompanied by an audible signal. Address these messages accordingly and follow the additional instructions given in this Operator’s Manual. Selecting the vehicle status message memory menu in the control system (컄 page 145) displays both cleared and uncleared messages. High-priority messages appear in the mul- tifunction display in red color.


Certain messages of high priority cannot be cleared from the multifunction display using the reset button (컄 page 24) or button j, k, è or ÿ on the multifunction steering wheel. Other messages of high priority and mes- sages of less immediate priority can be cleared from the multifunction display us- ing the reset button or button j, k, è or ÿ on the multifunction steer- ing wheel. They are then stored in the vehi- cle status message memory (컄 page 153). Remember that clearing a message will only make the message disappear. Clear- ing a message will not correct the condi- tion that caused the message to appear.


Practical hints What to do if …


Warning!


All categories of messages contain impor- tant information which should be taken note of and, where a malfunction is indicated, ad- dressed as soon as possible at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center.


Failure to repair condition noted may cause damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty, or result in property dam- age or personal injury.


Warning!


No messages will be displayed if either the instrument cluster or the multifunction dis- play is inoperative.


Contact the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


367


Practical hints What to do if …


Switching on the ignition causes all in- strument cluster lamps (except low beam headlamp indicator lamp, high beam headlamp indicator lamp, and turn signal indicator lamps unless acti- vated) as well as the multifunction dis- play to come on. Make sure the lamps and multifunction display are in work- ing order before starting your journey.


On the pages that follow, you will find a compilation of the most important warning and malfunction messages that may ap- pear in the multifunction display. For your convenience the messages are di- vided into two sections: 앫 Text messages (컄 page 369) 앫 Symbol messages (컄 page 378)


368


Text messages


Display ABS


Display message Malfunction Visit workshop


Display malfunction Visit workshop


Practical hints What to do if …


Possible cause The ABS has detected a malfunction and has switched off. The ESP and the BAS are also deac- tivated. The SBC brake system is still func- tioning normally but without the ABS available. The ABS or the ABS display is mal- functioning.


Possible solution 왘 Continue driving with added caution.


Wheels will lock during hard braking, reduc- ing steering capability.


왘 Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident. 왘 Continue driving with added caution.


Wheels will lock during hard braking, reduc- ing steering capability.


왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center


as soon as possible.


Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident.


369


Practical hints What to do if …


Display Low Battery


Display message Conven. functions temporarily unavailable


Please note:


Cruise control


Conven. functions available again Drive to workshop


Possible cause The battery has insufficient voltage and can no longer supply conve- nience functions such as the rear window defroster. On-board voltage is sufficient; the consumers will switch on again. Cruise control or Distronic* is mal- functioning.


Distronic


External interference Reactivate Drive to workshop


The Distronic* is switched off and is temporarily unavailable. The Distronic* is malfunctioning or the display is malfunctioning.


Possible solution As soon as the on-board voltage is sufficient, the consumers will switch on again.


왘 Have the cruise control or Distronic*


checked by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


왘 Try activating the Distronic* again later.


왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center


as soon as possible.


370


Display Distronic


Display message Currently unavailable See Operator’s Manual


Possible cause DISTRONIC* is switched off if: 앫 the DISTRONIC cover in the area


of the radiator grille is dirty


앫 the functionality is impaired by


heavy rain or thick fog


Practical hints What to do if …


Possible solution 왘 If necessary, clean the DISTRONIC cover in


the area of the radiator grille.


왘 Restart the vehicle. or DISTRONIC* becomes operational again with- out the engine being restarted when: 앫 dirt on the grille falls off while driving (e.g.


slush or snow)


앫 the system recognizes full sensor availabili- ty (due to lessening rain or the road surface drying)


앫 the message in the multifunction display


disappears


앫 the speed last stored flashes in the display


for five seconds.


You can operate DISTRONIC* as usual again.


371


Practical hints What to do if …


Display ESP


Display message Malfunction Visit workshop


unavailable See Operator’s Manual


Possible cause The ESP has detected a malfunction and switched off. The ABS may not be operational. The SBC brake system is still func- tioning normally but without the ESP available. The ESP is deactivated because the power supply was interrupted. The SBC brake system is still func- tioning normally but without the ESP available.


Possible solution 왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident.


왘 Synchronize the ESP. With the vehicle sta- tionary, turn the steering wheel completely to the left and then to the right to synchro- nize the ESP. If the ESP message does not go out: 왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident.


When synchronizing the ESP, make sure you can turn the steering wheel in


both directions as far as it will go with- out the wheels hitting any objects, e.g. a road curb.


372


Practical hints What to do if …


Possible solution 왘 Continue driving with added caution. 왘 Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident. 왘 Place the gear selector lever in position P.


Display ESP


Display message Display malfunction Visit workshop


Possible cause The ESP or the ESP display is mal- functioning.


Gear selector lever in Park


You have attempted to turn off the engine with the KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button with the gear se- lector lever not in P. You have opened the driver's door with the gear selector lever not in P.


P/N


Shift to Neutral or Park You have attempted to start the en-


왘 Place the gear selector lever in position P


gine with the KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button while the gear se- lector lever was in position R or D.


or N. Make sure the brake pedal is de- pressed.


373


Practical hints What to do if …


Display symbol


Display messages Front passenger airbag activated See Operator’s Manual


374


Possible cause Air bag is activated while driving even though a child, small individual, or object below the system's weight threshold is on the front passenger seat, or the front passenger seat is empty. Objects on the seat or forces acting on the seat may make the system sense supplemental weight.


Possible solution Stop the vehicle in a safe location as soon as possible and check the following: 왘 Make sure that there is nothing between seat cush- ion and child seat and check installation of the child seat.


왘 Make sure that no objects applying supplemental


weight onto the seat are present.


왘 Make sure that no objects which apply forces to the seat are present (e.g. objects such as books, brief- cases etc. lodged behind or around the seat, head restraints pushing against roof etc.). The system may recognize such forces as supplemental weight and sense that an occupant on the front passenger seat is of a heavier weight than actually present. (Continued on next page)


Display symbol


Display messages Front passenger airbag activated See Operator’s Manual


Possible cause


Practical hints What to do if …


Possible solution If performing any of the above corrective steps is suc- cessful, the message Front passenger airbag deacti- vated will appear in the multifunction display, confirming the situation has been remedied. Note that after performing the corrective steps, it may take up to 60 seconds for the message Front passenger airbag deactivated to appear. If the message Front passenger airbag activated remains on in the multifunction display and/or the 75 indicator lamp remains out even after per- forming the above corrective steps, have the system checked as soon as possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.


Warning!


If the message Front passenger airbag activated remains on in the multifunction display and/or the 75 indicator lamp remains out even after performing the above corrective steps, do not have any


children12 years old and under and other small individuals use the front passenger seat until the system has been repaired.


375


Practical hints What to do if …


Display symbol


Display messages Front passenger airbag deactivated See Operator’s Manual


376


Possible cause Air bag is deactivated while driving even though an adult or someone larger than a small individual is occupying the front pas- senger seat. Forces acting on the seat may make the system sense a decrease in weight.


Possible solution Stop the vehicle in a safe location as soon as possible and check the following: 왘 Do not lean on armrests or lift yourself up using han-


dle over the door.


왘 Adjust the seat in a height position (컄 page 38). 왘 Make sure that no objects which apply forces to the seat are present (e.g. objects such as books, brief- cases etc. lodged underneath, behind or around the seat). Such forces may cause the system to sense that an occupant of a lesser weight than actually present is on the front passenger seat.


왘 Re-position yourself. 왘 Sit properly belted in a nearly upright position with


your back against the seat backrest.


If performing any of the above corrective steps is successful, the message Front passenger airbag activated will appear in the multifunction display, confirming the situation has been remedied. (Continued on next page)


Display symbol


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