2007 Mercedes-benz E Class Wagon Owners Manual

lustration purposes only. Seating data are specif- ic to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustrations below. Refer to placard on ve- hicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

1 Seating capacity information on the Tire and Loading Information placard

Operation Tires and wheels

Step 4
왘 The resulting figure equals the avail-

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

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

Step 5
왘 Determine the combined weight of

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

load from your trailer will be trans- ferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle (컄 page 339).

The following table shows examples on how to calculate total and cargo load capacities with varying seating configura- tions and number and size of occupants. The following examples use a load limit of 1500 lbs. This is for illustration purposes only. Make sure you are using the actual load limit for your vehicle stated on the vehicle’s placard (컄 page 336).

Steps for determining correct load limit The following steps have been developed as required of all manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”. Step 1
왘 Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.

Step 2
왘 Determine the combined weight of the

driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

Step 3
왘 Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilo- grams or XXX lbs.

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Operation Tires and wheels

Example Combined

weight limit of occu- pants and cargo from placard 1500 lbs

1500 lbs

1500 lbs

Number of occupants (driver and passengers)

Seating configura- tion

Occupants weight

Combined weight of all occupants

Available cargo/luggage and trailer tongue weight (total load limit from placard minus combined weight of all occupants)

front: 2

rear: 3

front: 1
rear: 2

front:1

Occupant 1: 150 lbs Occupant 2: 180 lbs Occupant 3: 160 lbs Occupant 4: 140 lbs Occupant 5: 120 lbs Occupant 1: 200 lbs Occupant 2: 190 lbs Occupant 3: 150 lbs Occupant 1: 150 lbs

750 lbs

1500 lbs - 750 lbs = 750 lbs

540 lbs

1500 lbs - 540 lbs = 960 lbs

150 lbs

1500 lbs - 150 lbs = 1350 lbs

The higher the weight of all occupants, the less cargo and luggage load capacity is available. For more information, see “Trailer tongue load” (컄 page 339).

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Operation Tires and wheels

Certification label Even after careful determination of the combined weight of all occupants, cargo and the trailer tongue load (if applicable) (컄 page 339) as to not exceed the permis- sible load limit, you must make sure that your vehicle never exceeds the Gross Vehi- cle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. You can obtain the GVWR and GAWR from the certification la- bel. The certification label can be found on the driver’s door B-pillar, see “Technical data” (컄 page 476).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the trailer tongue load (컄 page 339) must never exceed the GVWR. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The to- tal allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). To assure that your vehicle does not ex- ceed the maximum permissible weight limits (GVWR and GAWR for front and rear axle), have the loaded vehicle (including driver, passengers and all cargo and, if ap- plicable, trailer fully loaded) weighed on a suitable commercial scale.

Trailer tongue load The tongue load of any trailer is an impor- tant weight to measure because it affects the load you can carry in your vehicle. If a trailer is towed, the tongue load must be added to the weight of all occupants riding and any cargo you are carrying in the vehicle. The tongue load typically is 10 percent of the trailer weight and every- thing loaded in it. Your Mercedes-Benz has been designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. Mercedes-Benz does not recom- mend trailer towing with your vehicle.

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Operation Tires and wheels

Recommended tire inflation pressure

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

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

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

Your vehicle is equipped with the Tire and Loading Information placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 335).

The tire inflation pressure should be checked regularly and should only be ad- justed on cold tires. The tires can be con- sidered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). Follow recommended cold tire inflation pressures listed on placard. Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best handling, tread life and riding comfort. In addition to the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar, also consult the fuel filler flap for any additional information pertaining to special driving situations. For more information, see “Important notes on tire inflation pressure” (컄 page 341).

i Data shown on placard examples are for il- lustration purposes only. Tire data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustrations below. Refer to placard on vehi- cle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

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

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

Important notes on tire inflation pressure

Warning!

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

foreign objects.

앫 Check to see whether air is leaking from

the valves or from around the rim.

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

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

Be sure to readjust the tire inflation pressure for normal driving speeds. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire inflation pressure. Some vehicles may have supplemental tire inflation pressure information for vehicle loads less than the maximum loaded vehi- cle condition. If such information is provid- ed, it can be found on the placard located on the inside of the fuel filler flap (컄 page 321). Tire inflation pressure changes by approxi- mately 1.5 psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air temperature change. Keep this in mind when checking tire inflation pressure where the temperature is different from the outside temperature.

Operation Tires and wheels

Checking tire inflation pressure

Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold. The tires can be considered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). If you check the tire inflation pressure when the tires are warm (the vehicle has been driven for several miles or sitting less than 3 hours), the reading will be approximately 4 psi (0.3 bar) higher than the cold reading. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the specified cold tire in- flation pressure. Otherwise, the tire will be underinflated.

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Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

Follow recommend tire inflation pressures.

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

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

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit or vehicle capacity weight as indicated on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout.

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

tire.

왘 Firmly press a tire gauge onto the

valve.

왘 Read tire inflation pressure on tire gauge and check against the recom- mended tire inflation pressure on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 335). If necessary, add air to achieve the recommended tire inflation pressure.

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

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

vehicle

앫 in winter road conditions prevail in

presence of ice and snow

앫 if you are driving on a loose surface

(e.g. sand or gravel)

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

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Warning!

Warning!

The Run Flat Indicator does not provide a warning for wrongly selected tire inflation pressures. Always adjust tire inflation pres- sure according to the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or fuel filler flap.

The Run Flat Indicator does not replace reg- ular checks of the tire inflation pressures since a gradual pressure loss in more than one tire cannot be detected by the Run Flat Indicator.

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

When the multifunction display shows the message Tire pressure Check tires, one or more of your tires is significantly un- derinflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper tire inflation pressure as indicat- ed on the vehicle’s tire information placard. Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability. Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when cold and set to the recommended tire inflation pressure as specified in the vehicle placard and owner’s manual.

i The recommended tire inflation pressures for your vehicle can be found on the tire placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 335). The tire inflation pressures are not listed in the owner’s manual.

Operation Tires and wheels

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

pressure

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

tires

왘 Using the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or, if available, the inside of the fuel filler flap, make sure the tire inflation pressure of all four tires is cor- rect.

Warning!

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

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

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Operation Tires and wheels

왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 37).

Make sure the standard display menu appears in the multifunction display (컄 page 155).

왘 Press button k or j repeatedly until the following message appears in the multifunction display: Run Flat Indicator active Menu: R-Button

왘 Press reset button (컄 page 27).

The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Restart Run Flat Indicator? Cancel Yes

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If you wish to confirm activation: 왘 Press button æ.

The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Run Flat Indicator restarted

After a certain “learning phase”, the Run Flat Indicator checks the set pressure val- ues for all four tires. If you wish to cancel activation: 왘 Press button ç. or 왘 Wait until the message

Checking tire inflation pressure elec- tronically with the Advanced Tire Pres- sure Monitoring System (Advanced TPMS)*, (Canada only) The TPMS only functions on wheels that are equipped with the proper electronic sensors. It monitors the tire inflation pres- sure, as selected by the driver, in all four tires. A warning is issued to alert you to a decrease in pressure in one or more of the tires. Tire pressure inquiries are made using the multifunction display. The present inflation pressures are displayed only after a few minutes’ travel time.

Restart Run Flat Indicator? Cancel Yes disappears.

i USA only: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interfer-

ence, and

(2) this device must accept any interference re-

ceived, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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

i Canada only: This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference re-

ceived, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

i Possible differences between the readings of a tire pressure gauge of an air hose, e.g. gas station equipment, and the vehicle’s control system can occur. Usually the readings issued by the control system are more precise. 왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 37). 왘 Press the j or k button until

the current inflation pressures for each tire appear in the multifunction display.

i When the message Tire pressure is only displayed after driving for a few minutes appears in the multifunction display, the individual inflation pressure values are matched with the tires. The individual values are displayed after a few minutes driving.

Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

It is the driver’s responsibility to calibrate the TPMS on the recommended cold infla- tion pressure. Underinflated tires affect the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You might lose control over the vehicle.

i With a spare wheel mounted, the system may still indicate the tire inflation pressure of the removed road wheel for some minutes. If this happens, keep in mind that the indicated value where the spare wheel is mounted does not re- flect the actual spare tire inflation pressure.

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Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

Warning!

The TPMS does not indicate a warning for wrongly selected inflation pressures. Always adjust tire inflation pressure according to the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or, if available, the supplemental tire pressure in- formation on the inside of the fuel filler flap.

The TPMS is not able to issue a warning due to a sudden dramatic loss of pressure (e.g. tire blowout caused by a foreign object). In this case bring the vehicle to a halt by care- fully applying the brakes and avoiding abrupt steering maneuvers.

Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recom- mended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or the tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or the tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire infla- tion pressure for those tires). As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitor- ing system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires are significantly underinflated. Accord- ingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illu- minates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible. Driving on a signif- icantly underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.

346

Underinflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may effect the vehi- cle’s handling and stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driv- er’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if underinflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.

i Operating radio transmission equipment (e.g. wireless headsets, two-way radios) in or near the vehicle could cause the TPMS to mal- function.

Reactivating Advanced TPMS* The TPMS must be reactivated when you have adjusted the tire inflation pressure to a new level (e.g. because of different load or driving conditions). The TPMS is then recalibrated to the current tire inflation pressures.

Warning!

It is the driver’s responsibility to calibrate the TPMS on the recommended cold infla- tion pressure. Underinflated tires affect the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You might lose control over the vehicle.

왘 Using the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 335) or, if avail- able, the supplemental tire pressure information on the inside of the fuel filler flap (컄 page 321), make sure the tire inflation pressure of all four tires is correct.

i Reactivate the TPMS after adjusting the tire inflation pressure to the inflation pressure rec- ommended for the vehicle operating condition. Tire pressure should only be adjusted on cold tires. Observe the recommended tire inflation pressure on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 335). Some vehicles may have supplemental tire pressure information for driv- ing at high speeds (컄 page 341) or for vehicle loads less than the maximum loaded vehicle con- dition (컄 page 341). If such information is pro- vided, it can be found on the inside of the fuel filler flap (컄 page 321). 왘 Press button è or ÿ on the mul-

tifunction steering wheel repeatedly until the standard display menu appears in the multifunction display (컄 page 155).

왘 Press the j or k button repeat- edly until you see the current inflation pressures for each tire appear in the display or the following message ap- pears in the display Tire pressure displayed after driving for a few minutes

Operation Tires and wheels

왘 Press the reset button (컄 page 27).

The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Restart tire pressure monitor?

왘 Press the æ button.

The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Tire pressure monitor restarted After a few minutes driving, the current tire inflation pressure values are ac- cepted as reference values and then monitored.

If you wish to cancel activation: 왘 Press the ç button.

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Overinflated tires Overinflated tires can: 앫 adversely affect handling

characteristics

앫 cause uneven tire wear 앫 be more prone to damage from road

hazards

앫 adversely affect ride comfort 앫 increase stopping distance

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

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

Operation Tires and wheels

Potential problems associated with underinflated and overinflated tires

Underinflated tires Underinflated tires can: 앫 cause excessive and uneven tire wear 앫 adversely affect fuel economy 앫 lead to tire failure from being

overheated

앫 adversely affect handling

characteristics

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

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

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Tire labeling

Besides tire name (sales designation) and manufacturer name, a number of markings can be found on a tire. Following are some explanations for the markings on your vehicle’s tires:

Operation Tires and wheels

1 Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards

(컄 page 356)

Tire size designation, load and speed rating

2 DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)

(컄 page 353)

3 Maximum tire load (컄 page 355) 4 Maximum tire inflation pressure

(컄 page 355) 5 Manufacturer 6 Tire ply material (컄 page 358) 7 Tire size designation, load and speed

rating (컄 page 349)

8 Load identification (컄 page 353) 9 Tire name

i For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration. For more information, see “Rims and tires” (컄 page 480).

1 Tire width 2 Aspect ratio in % 3 Radial tire code 4 Rim diameter 5 Tire load rating 6 Tire speed rating

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

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Operation Tires and wheels

General: Depending on the design standards used, the tire size molded into the sidewall may have no letter or a letter preceding the tire size designation. No letter preceding the size designation (as illustrated above): Passenger car tire based on European design standards. Letter “P” preceding the size designation: Passenger car tire based on U.S. design standards. Letter “LT” preceding the size designation: Light Truck tire based on U.S. design standards. Letter “T” preceding the size designation: Temporary spare tires which are high pressure compact spares designed for temporary emergency use only.

350

Rim diameter The rim diameter 4 (컄 page 349) is the diameter of the bead seat, not the diameter of the rim edge. Rim diameter is indicated in inches (in).

Tire load rating The tire load rating 5 (컄 page 349) is a numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can support. For example, a load rating of 91 corre- sponds to a maximum load of 1356 lb (615 kg) the tire is designed to support. See also “Maximum tire load” (컄 page 355) where the maximum load as- sociated with the load index is indicated in kilograms and lb.

Tire width The tire width 1 (컄 page 349) indicates the nominal tire width in mm.

Aspect ratio The aspect ratio 2 (컄 page 349) is the dimensional relationship between tire section height and section width and is expressed in percentage. The aspect ratio is arrived at by dividing section height by section width.

Tire code The tire code 3 (컄 page 349) indicates the tire construction type. The “R” stands for radial tire type. Letter “D” means diagonal or bias ply construction; letter “B” means belted-bias ply construction. At the tire manufacturer’s option, any tire with a speed capability above 149 mph (240 km/h) can include a “ZR” in the size designation (for example: 245/40 ZR 18). For additional information, see “Tire speed rating” (컄 page 351).

Warning!

i Tire load rating 5 (컄 page 349) and Tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 349) are also referred to as “service description”.

The tire load rating must always be at least half of the GAWR (컄 page 359) of your vehi- cle. Otherwise, tire failure may be the result which may cause an accident and/or serious injury to you or others.

Always replace rims and tires with the same designation, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part.

Tire speed rating The tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 349) indicates the approved maximum speed for the tire.

Warning!

Warning!

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

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

For additional information on tire load rating, see “Load identification” (컄 page 353).

Exceeding the maximum speed for which tires are rated can lead to sudden tire failure, causing loss of vehicle control and possibly resulting in an accident and/or serious injury and possible death, for you and for others.

i Tire load rating 5 (컄 page 349) and Tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 349) are also referred to as “service description”.

Operation Tires and wheels

Summer tires

Index (Y) ZR

Speed rating up to 100 mph (160 km/h) up to 106 mph (170 km/h) up to 112 mph (180 km/h) up to 118 mph (190 km/h) up to 130 mph (210 km/h) up to 149 mph (240 km/h) up to 168 mph (270 km/h) up to 186 mph (300 km/h) above 186 mph (300 km/h) above 149 mph (240 km/h)

앫 At the tire manufacturer’s option, any

tire with a speed capability above 149 mph (240 km/h) can include a “ZR” in the size designation (for exam- ple: 245/40 ZR18). To determine the maximum speed capability of the tire, the service description for the tire must be referred to. The service description

351

앫 Any tire with a speed capability above 186 mph (300 km/h) must include a “ZR” in the size designation AND the service description must be placed in parenthesis. Example: 275/40 ZR 18 (99Y). The “(Y)” speed rating in paren- thesis designates the maximum speed capability of the tire as being above 186 mph (300 km/h). Consult the tire manufacturer for the actual maximum permissible speed of the tire.

All-season and winter tires

Speed rating Index Q M+S1
up to 100 mph (160 km/h) T M+S1 up to 118 mph (190 km/h) H M+S1 up to 130 mph (210 km/h) V M+S1 up to 149 mph (240 km/h) 1 or M+S.for winter tires

i Not all M+S rated tires provide special win- ter performance. Make sure the tires you use show M+S and the mountain/snow- flake.marking on the tire sidewall. These tires meet specific snow traction performance requirements of the Rubber Manufacturers As- sociation (RMA) and the Rubber Association of Canada (RAC) and have been designed specifi- cally for use in snow conditions.

Operation Tires and wheels

is comprised of the tire load rating 5 (컄 page 349) and the tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 349). If your tire includes “ZR” in the size designation and no service description 5 and 6 (컄 page 349) is given, the tire manufacturer must be consulted for the maximum speed ca- pability. If a service description 5 and 6 (컄 page 349) is given, the speed capa- bility is limited by the speed symbol in the service description. Example: 245/40 ZR18 97Y. In this example, “97Y” is the service description. The letter “Y” designates the speed rating and the speed capabil- ity of the tire is limited to 186 mph (300 km/h).

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Load identification

1 Load identification

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

Operation Tires and wheels

In addition to tire load rating, special load identification 1 may be molded into the tire sidewall following the letter designat- ing the tire speed rating 6 (컄 page 349). No specification given: absence of any text (like in above example) indicates a standard load (SL) tire. XL or Extra Load: designates an extra load (or reinforced) tire. Light Load: designates a light load tire. C, D, E: designates load range associated with the maximum load a tire can carry at a specified pressure.

DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)

U.S. tire regulations require each new tire manufacturer or tire retreader to mold a TIN into or onto a sidewall of each tire produced. The TIN is a unique identifier which facili- tates efforts by tire manufactures to notify purchasers in recall situations or other safety matters concerning tires and gives purchasers the means to easily identify such tires. The TIN is comprised of “Manufacturer’s identification mark”, “Tire size”, “Tire type code” and “Date of manufacture”.

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Operation Tires and wheels

1 DOT 2 Manufacturer’s identification mark 3 Tire size 4 Tire type code (at the option of the tire

manufacturer)

5 Date of manufacture

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

354

DOT (Department of Transportation) A tire branding symbol 1 (컄 page 354) which denotes the tire meets require- ments of the U.S. Department of Transpor- tation.

Tire type code The code 4 (컄 page 354) may, at the option of the manufacturer, be used as a descriptive code for identifying significant characteristics of the tire.

Manufacturer’s identification mark The manufacturer’s identification mark 2 (컄 page 354) denotes the tire manufacturer. New tires have a mark with two symbols. Retreaded tires have a mark with four sym- bols. For more information on retreaded tires, see (컄 page 332).

Tire size The code 3 (컄 page 354) indicates the tire size.

Date of manufacture The date of manufacture 5 (컄 page 354) identifies the week and year of manufac- ture. The first two figures identify the week, starting with “01” to represent the first full week of the calendar year. The second two figures represent the year. For example, “3202” represents the 32nd week of 2002.

Maximum tire load

Warning!

Maximum tire inflation pressure

Operation Tires and wheels

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

For more information on tire load rating (컄 page 350). For information on calculating total and cargo load capacities (컄 page 337).

1 Maximum tire load rating

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

The maximum tire load is the maximum weight the tires are designed to support.

1 Maximum permissible tire inflation

pressure

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

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

355

Operation Tires and wheels

Always follow the recommended tire inflation pressure (컄 page 340) 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.

356

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

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

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

1 Treadwear 2 Traction 3 Temperature resistance

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

from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

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.

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.

Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

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.

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Operation Tires and wheels

Tire ply material

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 bar.

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

1 Plies in sidewall 2 Plies under tread

i For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires are 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.

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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 3 hours or driv- en no more than 1 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 GVW must never exceed the GVWR indicated on the certification label located on the driver’s door B-pillar.

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 1 psi; another metric unit for air pressure is bar. There are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to 1 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, total load limit, 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 lb).

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 lb (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.

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Operation Tires and wheels

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 Tire and Loading Information 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.

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.

Total load limit Rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kilograms (150 lb) times the vehicle’s designated seating capacity.

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 1/16 in (1.6 mm) of tread remains.

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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 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.

Rotating tires

Warning!

Rotate front and rear wheels only if the tires are of the same dimension.

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 335). 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.

Operation Tires and wheels

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 6000 miles (5000 to 10000 km), or sooner if neces- sary, according to the degree of tire wear. The same rotation (spinning) direction must be maintained (컄 page 335). 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.

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Operation Tires and wheels

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 433) and (컄 page 456).

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왔 Winter driving Before the onset of winter, have your vehicle winterized at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. This service includes: 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 494). 앫 Battery test. Battery capacity drops

with decreasing ambient temperature. A well charged battery helps to make sure that the engine can be started even at low ambient temperatures.

앫 Tire change.

Winter tires

Always use winter tires at temperatures below 45°F (7°C) and whenever wintry road conditions prevail. Not all M+S rated tires provide special winter performance. Make sure the tires you use show the mountain/snowflake.marking on the tire sidewall. These tires meet specific snow traction performance requirements of the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) and the Rubber Association of Can- ada (RAC) and have been designed specif- ically for use in snow conditions. Use of winter tires is the only way to achieve the maximum effectiveness 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.

Operation Winter driving

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.

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.

컄컄

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Operation Winter driving

컄컄

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

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.

Snow chains

! When driving with snow chains, always se- lect the raised level of the level control system Airmatic (컄 page 262). Other settings may result in damage to your vehicle.

! Even on vehicles with all-wheel-drive, use snow chains on rear tires only. Some tire sizes do not leave adequate clearance for snow chains. To help avoid serious damage to your vehicle or tires, make sure that the use of snow chains is permissible as specified in the “Technical data” section of this Operator’s Man- ual, see “Rims and tires” (컄 page 480).

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

앫 Do not use snow chains on the spare

wheel (컄 page 483).

i When driving with snow chains, you may wish to switch off the ESP® (컄 page 102) before setting the vehicle in motion. This will improve the vehicle’s traction.

i E 63 AMG: Do not switch off the ESP® when driving in snow or with snow chains mounted.

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 (컄 page 480).

앫 Use snow chains in pairs and on rear wheels only. Follow the manufacturer’s mounting instructions.

! If snow chains are mounted to the front wheels, they may scrape against the body or axle components. The tires or the vehicle could be damaged as a result. 앫 Only use snow chains that are ap-

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

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.

Maintenance service indicator message

The maintenance service indicator will no- tify you when the next maintenance ser- vice is due. Starting approximately 1 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):

Service A in XXXX miles (Km) Service A in XXX 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:

Operation Maintenance

from

to

Service A (approximately 1 hour)

Service H (approximately 8 hours)

Refer to Maintenance Booklet for a listing of maintenance services and intervals they need to be performed at.

i Vehicles equipped with Maintenance Sys- tem only (U.S. vehicles. Canada vehicles, de- pending on vehicle production date): The Maintenance System in your vehicle tracks distance driven and the time elapsed since the last maintenance service and calculates other maintenance service work required.

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Operation Maintenance

i Vehicles equipped with FSS PLUS (Flexible Service System PLUS) only (Canada vehicles, de- pending on vehicle production date): 앫 FSS PLUS evaluates engine temperature, oil level, vehicle speed, engine speed, distance driven and the time elapsed since the last service and calculates other maintenance service work required.

앫 The interval between maintenance services depends on your driving habits. A gentle driv- ing style, moderate engine speeds and the avoidance of short-distance trips will length- en the interval between services.

Clearing the maintenance service indicator message The maintenance service indicator mes- sage is automatically cleared 앫 after approximately 10 seconds, when

you switch on the ignition or when reaching the service threshold while driving

앫 after approximately 30 seconds, once

the suggested maintenance service term has passed

You can also clear it yourself:

왘 Press the reset button 1 on the left

side of the instrument cluster. The maintenance service indicator message is cleared and the standard display appears in the multifunction display (컄 page 155).

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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i 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 message or maintenance service indicator dis- play. Do not confuse the maintenance service indica- tor with the engine oil level indicator :.

Calling up the maintenance service indicator display

You can call up the maintenance service indicator display at any time to check when the next maintenance service is due. 왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 38). 왘 Press button è or ÿ on the mul- tifunction steering repeatedly until the standard display appears in the multi- function display (컄 page 155).

왘 Press button k or j until the

maintenance service indicator display with the service symbol 9 and the service deadline appears in the multi- function display.

Operation Maintenance

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.

i If the maintenance service indicator was in- advertently reset, have an authorized 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 result in engine damage and/or other vehicle damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

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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.

Always lock away cleaning products and keep them out of reach of children.

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 vehicle 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

! Follow the instructions provided by the pow- er washer manufacturer on maintaining a dis- tance between the vehicle and the nozzle of the power washer. 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 connectors, seals, or other rubber parts.

i 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 prox- imity, i.e. within approximately 3 ft (approxi- mately 1 m), the vehicle could be inadvertently locked or unlocked.

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

Paintwork, painted body components

! Affixing stickers, magnets, adhesive tape or similar materials to painted body components may damage the paintwork.

Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Care should be applied when water drops on the paint surface do not “bead up”. This should normally be done every 3 to 5 months, de- pending on the climate and washing deter- gent 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. 왘 Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up

Stick for quick and provisional repairs of minor paint damage (i.e. chips from stones, vehicle 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 In the winter, thoroughly remove all traces of road salt as soon as possible. When washing the vehicle underbody, do not forget to clean the inner sides of the wheels.

i 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 prox- imity, i.e. within approximately 3 ft (approxi- mately 1 m), the vehicle could be inadvertently locked or unlocked.

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Hand-wash Do not use hot water or wash your vehicle in direct sunlight. 왘 Only use a mild car wash detergent,

such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo.

왘 Thoroughly spray the vehicle with a dif-

fused jet of water. Direct only a very weak spray towards the ventilation intake.

왘 Use plenty of water and rinse the sponge and chamois frequently.

왘 Rinse with clean water and thoroughly

dry with a chamois. Do not allow cleaning agents to dry on the finish.

! Do not use scouring agents on these parts. Never apply strong force and only use a soft, non-scratching cloth when cleaning the vehicle. Do not attempt to wipe the surface with a dry cloth or sponge. Otherwise you may scratch or damage the paint.

Automatic car wash You can have your car washed in an auto- matic car wash from the start. Automatic car washes without brushes are prefera- ble. 왘 To protect the filter system, switch the automatic climate control to air recir- culation mode (컄 page 216) or (컄 page 233).

! Do not clean your vehicle in an automatic touchless car wash which uses caustic spray. Otherwise the caustic spray will damage the paint or ornamental moldings.

If the vehicle is very dirty, prewash it be- fore running it through the automatic car wash.

Operation Vehicle care

! Make sure that the windshield wiper switch is set to M (컄 page 58). Otherwise, e.g. the rain sensor could activate and cause the wipers to move unintentionally. This may lead to vehicle damage. 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 dam- age to the mirrors.

i After running the vehicle through an auto- matic car wash, wipe any wax off of the wind- shield (컄 page 372) and the wiper blade inserts (컄 page 372). This will prevent smears and re- duce wiping noise which can be caused by resid- ual wax on the windshield. When leaving the car wash, make sure that the mirrors are folded out. Otherwise they may vibrate.

Ornamental moldings For regular cleaning and care of ornamen- tal moldings, use a damp cloth.

Headlamps, tail lamps, side markers, turn signal lenses 왘 Use a mild car wash detergent, such as

! Do not use chrome cleaner on ornamental moldings. Although ornamental moldings may have chrome appearance, they could be made of anodized aluminum that will be damaged when cleaned with chrome cleaner. Instead, use a damp cloth to clean those ornamental moldings. For very dirty ornamental moldings of which you are sure are chrome-plated, use a chrome clean- er. If in doubt whether an ornamental molding is chrome-plated, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Mercedes-Benz approved Car Sham- poo, with plenty of water.

! Only use window cleaning solutions that are suitable for plastic lamp lenses. Window clean- ing solutions which are not suitable may damage the plastic lamp lenses of the headlamps. There- fore, do not use abrasives, solvents or cleaners that contain solvents. Never apply strong force and only use a soft, non-scratching cloth when cleaning the lenses. Do not attempt to wipe dirty lenses with a dry cloth or sponge. Otherwise you may scratch or damage the lens surface.

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Operation Vehicle care

Cleaning the Distronic* system sensor cover

왘 Restart the engine after cleaning sen-

sor cover 1.

Warning!

Cleaning the windows and the wiper blades

! The windshield wipers must be in a vertical position before folding them away from the wind- shield. They could otherwise damage the hood. Never open the hood when the wiper arms are folded forward. 왘 Make sure the hood is fully closed. 왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 38). 왘 Turn combination switch to wiper

setting u (컄 page 58).

왘 With wiper arms in vertical position,

switch off the ignition (컄 page 63).

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 and/or the wiper blades. Otherwise, the wiper motor could suddenly turn on and cause injury.

! Do not pull on the wiper blade inserts. They could tear. 왘 Fold the wiper arms forward until they

snap into place.

왘 Clean the wiper blade inserts with a

clean cloth and detergent solution.

왘 Use a soft, clean cloth and a mild win-

dow cleaning solution on all outside and inside glass surfaces. An automotive glass cleaner is recom- mended.

1 Distronic system sensor cover 왘 Switch off the ignition (컄 page 38). 왘 Use a mild car wash detergent, such as

Mercedes-Benz approved Car Sham- poo, with plenty of water and a non-scratching cloth to clean sensor cover 1.

! To prevent scratches or damage, never ap- ply strong force and only use a soft, non-scratch- ing cloth when cleaning the sensor cover 1. Do not attempt to wipe dirty sensors with a dry cloth or sponge.

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! Fold the windshield wiper arms back onto the windshield before turning the SmartKey in the starter switch or pressing the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button (vehicles with KEYLESS-GO*). 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.

! To clean the window interior, do not use a dry cloth, abrasives, solvents or cleaners con- taining solvents. Do not touch the inside of the front, rear or side windows with hard objects such as an ice scraper or ring. Doing so may damage the windows.

Light alloy wheels If possible, clean wheels once a week. 왘 Use Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care, a soft bristle brush and a strong spray of water for cleaning the light al- loy wheels.

! Only use acid-free cleaning materials. Acid may cause corrosion or damage the clear coat.

! The vehicle should not be parked for an ex- tended period of time immediately after it has been cleaned, especially not after the wheel rims have been cleaned with wheel rim cleaner. Wheel rim cleaners can lead to increased corro- sion of the brake disks and brake pads. Non-ap- proved wheel cleaners may also damage the wheel paint if the car is not driven after cleaning. Therefore, the vehicle’s brake system should al- ways be warmed-up before it is parked after cleaning. To do so, please drive your vehicle for several minutes to allow the brakes to dry. When applying Mercedes-Benz approved Tire Care and Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care products, take care not to spray them on the brake disks.

Operation Vehicle care

Plastic and rubber parts 왘 Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution.

왘 Wipe with a cloth moistened in a luke-

warm solution. The surface may temporarily change color. If this is the case, wait for it to dry.

Warning!