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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


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.


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179


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


in construction sites 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.


180 Driving systems


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 started. It may take up


to two minutes after pulling away before DISTRONIC PLUS is operational.


Rthe parking brake must not be applied. RESP® must be activated but not


intervening.


Rthe transmission must be in position D. Rthe hood must be closed. 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 no longer detected and shown, DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated and a warning tone sounds. X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards you ?, or briefly press up : or down ;. 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 Override message is shown 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 briefly press up : or down ;. 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


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181


instrument cluster should be activated (Y page 224).


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 183).


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 causes your vehicle to brake. This maintains the preset distance to the vehicle in front. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a faster-moving vehicle in front, it increases the driving speed of your vehicle, 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 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.


182 Driving systems


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.


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 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 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.


Sets 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 183). 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.


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183


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 You can select the distance display in the Assistance menu (Y page 224) of the on- board computer.


184 Driving systems


Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated X Select the Distance Display function using the on-board computer (Y page 224).


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 224).


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:


: 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. When 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 229).


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


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185


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


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


186 Driving systems


Vehicles traveling on a different line


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


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


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


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 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.


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187


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.


Ryou shift the transmission to 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.


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.


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.


188 Driving systems


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. i If the engine has been switched off, it cannot be started again until the HOLD function has been deactivated.


If there is a malfunction in the system or power supply while the HOLD function is activated, the Brake immediately message is shown in the multifunction display. Immediately depress the brake firmly until the warning message in the multifunction display goes out.


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.


Rthe steering wheel is in the straight-ahead


(Y page 67)


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 156) 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 157).


or X To confirm: pull the right steering wheel shift paddle (Y page 157). 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.


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189


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


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 190)


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.


190 Driving systems


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. 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 E 63 AMG model.


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191


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.


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.


192 Driving systems


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.


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.


: Sensors in the front bumper, left-hand


side (example)


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193


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 317).


! 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.


Side view, Sedan (example)


Corners


Minimum distance Center


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


Top view, Sedan (example) 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)


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.


194 Driving systems


Deactivating/activating PARKTRONIC


: To deactivate/activate PARKTRONIC ; Indicator lamp If indicator lamp ; lights up, PARKTRONIC is deactivated. i PARKTRONIC is automatically activated when you turn the SmartKey to position 2
in the ignition lock.


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 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 determines which warning display is active when the engine is running. Transmission position R or N


Warning display


Front area activated Rear and front areas activated 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.


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 317). 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.


Parking Guidance Important safety notes Parking Guidance 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. You receive steering instructions when parking. You may also use PARKTRONIC (Y page 192). G WARNING Parking Guidance is merely an aid and may display parking spaces that are not suitable for parking, for example: Rno-parking areas Rparking spaces with unsuitable surfaces


(road surface)


Rdriveways Rentrances and exits Parking Guidance detects and measures potential parking spaces while driving past. Changes to the parking space after this point are not taken into account, for example if the vehicle in front of or behind the parking space changes position or objects in the parking space are moved. Even when using Parking Guidance, you are still responsible for driving carefully. If you rely on Parking Guidance alone, you could cause an accident and injure yourself and others. Safety always remains your responsibility and you must continue paying careful attention to your immediate surroundings when parking and maneuvering.


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G WARNING Objects located above the height range of Parking Guidance will not be detected when the parking space is measured. These objects are not taken into account when the parking procedure is calculated, e.g. overhanging loads, tail sections or loading ramps of goods vehicles. Under some circumstances, Parking Guidance might therefore issue steering instructions too soon. This may lead to a collision. For this reason, you should avoid using Parking Guidance in such situations. G WARNING Make sure that no persons or animals are in the maneuvering range. Otherwise, they could be injured.


! Pay particular attention to low objects or


objects with flat surfaces, such as trailer drawbars, posts, cross beams and curbs. These types of objects cannot be detected by Parking Guidance and may damage the vehicle.


When PARKTRONIC is deactivated, Parking Guidance is also unavailable. Use Parking Guidance 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, i.e. not on the pavement, for example. Parking Guidance may not detect flat curbs


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 193) warning messages during the parking procedure.


Rwhen transporting a load which protrudes from your vehicle, you must not use Parking Guidance.


Rnever use Parking Guidance with snow


chains or an emergency spare wheel installed.


Rmake sure that the tire pressures are


always correct. This has a direct effect on the steering instructions.


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, Parking Guidance may guide you too far or not far enough into a parking space. In some cases, it may also lead you across or onto the curb. If necessary, cancel the parking procedure with Parking Guidance.


! 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


Example : Detected parking space on the left ; Parking symbol = Detected parking space on the right Parking Guidance is automatically activated when you drive 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 parking symbol ; as a status indicator in the instrument cluster. When a parking space has been detected, an arrow towards the right = or the left : also appears. Parking Guidance only displays parking spaces on the front-passenger side as standard. Parking spaces on the driver's side are displayed as soon as the turn signal on the driver's side is activated. To park on the driver's side, you must leave the driver's side turn signal switched on until you have engaged reverse gear. Parking Guidance will only detect parking spaces: Rthat are parallel to the direction of travel Rthat are at least 5 ft (1.5 m) wide Rthat are at least 4.3 ft (1.3 m) longer than


your vehicle


A parking space is displayed while you are driving past it, and until you are approximately 50 ft (15 m) away from it.


Parking G WARNING The Parking Guidance is only an aid and may not detect all obstacles. The Parking Guidance does not relieve you of the responsibility to pay attention. You are always responsible for safety and must continue to pay attention to your immediate surroundings when parking and maneuvering. Otherwise, you could 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 following message appears in the multifunction display: Check vehicle surroundings Confirm with OK. X Press the a button on the multifunction


steering wheel to confirm. The multifunction display switches to Parking Guidance.


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197


Depending on your distance from the parking space, the Please drive backwards message appears in the multifunction display.


X If necessary, reverse towards the parking


space. This is indicated by an arrow pointing backwards. Continue backing up until you hear a tone. Stop – the parking position has been reached. The arrow is white. The Please steer to the right or Please steer to the left message appears in the multifunction display.


X While the vehicle is stationary, turn the steering wheel in the specified direction until the arrow is white and a warning tone sounds.


X To reverse into the parking space: maintain the steering wheel angle and reverse carefully.


X Stop as soon as you hear a warning tone,


The vehicle has reached the position in which you need to countersteer. The Please steer to the left or Please steer to the right message appears in the multifunction display. X Countersteering: while the vehicle is


stationary, turn the steering wheel in the specified direction until the arrow is white and a warning tone sounds.


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X To reverse into the parking space: maintain the steering wheel angle and reverse carefully.


X Stop as soon as you hear a warning tone, at the latest when PARKTRONIC sounds the continuous warning tone. The Parking Guidance finished message appears in the multifunction display and a warning tone sounds. You may be asked to steer in a different direction and then change gear. In this case, further displays in the multifunction display will direct you to the final position.


X Maneuver if necessary. X Always observe the warning messages


displayed by PARKTRONIC (Y page 193).


Canceling Parking Guidance X Press the PARKTRONIC button on the


center console (Y page 194). Parking Guidance is canceled immediately and PARKTRONIC is deactivated.


Parking Guidance is canceled automatically if it is no longer possible to guide you into the parking space, or if a malfunction occurs. The parking space symbol goes out and a warning tone sounds. The Parking Guidance Canceled message appears in the multifunction display.


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/tailgate.


Example: Sedan : Rear view camera


View through the camera The area behind the vehicle is displayed in a mirror-inverted manner, as in the rear-view mirror. G WARNING The rear view camera is only an aid and the obstacle display may: Rshow a distorted perspective Rbe inaccurate Rnot show obstacles at all The rear view camera does not mean that you are no longer responsible for driving carefully. Be careful and be particularly alert. The rear view camera may not show objects that are: Rvery close to the rear bumper Runderneath the rear bumper Rabove the trunk handle/tailgate handle Safety always remains your responsibility, and you must continue paying careful attention to your immediate surroundings when parking and maneuvering. This includes the area behind, in front of and beside the vehicle. You could otherwise endanger yourself or others. G WARNING The rear view camera will not function or will not fully function if:


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199


Rthe trunk lid/the tailgate 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.


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. G WARNING ATTENTION ASSIST is only an aid and may detect your tiredness or lapses in concentration too late or not at all. It is not a substitute for a well-rested and attentive driver. Fatigue may cause you to recognize hazardous situations too late, misjudge a situation or react more slowly. For this reason, make sure you feel rested before you begin driving and during your journey. Make sure that you take regular breaks in time, particularly on long journeys. Otherwise, you may fail to recognize dangers in time, cause an accident and injure yourself and others.


ATTENTION ASSIST assesses your level of fatigue or lapses in concentration by taking the following criteria into account: Ryour personal driving style, e.g. steering


characteristics


Rdriving conditions, e.g. time, driving time The functionality of ATTENTION ASSIST is restricted and warnings may be delayed or not occur at all: Rif the road condition is poor, e.g. if the


surface is uneven or if there are potholes


Rif there is a strong side wind Rif you have adopted a sporty driving style with high cornering speeds or high rates of acceleration


Rif you predominantly drive at speeds under


50 mph (80 km/h) or over 112 mph (180 km/h)


Rif you are currently using COMAND or


making a telephone call with it


200 Driving systems


Rif the time has been set incorrectly Rin active driving situations, such as when you change lanes or change your speed


Warning and display messages in the multifunction display


X Activate ATTENTION ASSIST using the on-


board computer (Y page 225). Symbol : appears in the multifunction display.


If ATTENTION ASSIST is active, you will be warned no sooner than 20 minutes after your journey has begun. You will then hear an intermittent warning tone twice, and the Attention Assist: Time for a rest? message appears in the multifunction display. X If necessary, take a break. X Press a to confirm the message. On long journeys, take regular breaks in good time to allow yourself to rest properly. If you do not take a break and ATTENTION ASSIST still detects typical indicators of fatigue or increasing lapses in concentration, you will be warned again after 15 minutes at the earliest. ATTENTION ASSIST is reset when you continue your journey and starts assessing your tiredness again if: Ryou switch off the engine. Ryou take off your seat belt and open the


driver's door, e.g. for a change of drivers or to take a break.


Night View Assist Plus Important safety notes In addition to the illumination provided by the normal headlamps, Night View Assist Plus uses infrared light to illuminate the road. The Night View Assist Plus camera picks up the infrared light and displays a grayscale image in the COMAND display. The image displayed in COMAND corresponds to a road lit up by high-beam headlamps. This enables you to see the road's course and any obstacles in good time. If pedestrian recognition is activated, pedestrians recognized by the system are highlighted in the Night View Assist Plus display. G WARNING Night View Assist Plus is only an aid designed to assist driving. It is not a substitute for attentive driving. Do not rely solely on the Night View Assist Plus display. Continue to look through the windshield. You are responsible for safety and must drive in accordance with traffic conditions. You could otherwise put yourself and others in danger. The system may be impaired or unavailable if: Rthere is poor visibility, e.g. due to snow,


rain, fog or heavy spray.


Rthe windshield is dirty, fogged up or


covered, for instance by a sticker, in the vicinity of the camera.


Ryou are driving on bends, uphill gradients


or downhill gradients.


Light from the headlamps of oncoming vehicles does not affect the Night View Assist Plus display in the multifunction display. This is also the case if you cannot switch on the high-beam headlamps due to oncoming traffic. G WARNING The Night View Assist Plus cannot record objects immediately in front of or next to the vehicle. When maneuvering, continue to look through the windshield. Make sure no


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