2003 Mercedes-benz G Class Owners Manual

If the indicator lamps in the SOS button, in the Roadside Assistance button and/or in the Information button do not come on dur- ing the system self-check or if any of these indicators remain illuminated constantly in red and/or the message TELE AID - VIS- IT WORKSHOP is displayed in the multifunc- tion display after the system self-check, a malfunction in the system has been detect- ed.

If a malfunction is indicated as outlined above, the system may not operate as ex- pected. Have the system checked at the nearest Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center as soon as possible.

Controls in detail Useful features

The SOS button is located above the in- side rear view mirror. The Roadside Assistance button • and the Information button ¡ are located below the center armrest cov- er.

Shortly after the completion of your ac- quaintance call, you will receive a user ID and password via first call mail. By visiting www.mbusa.com and selecting “Tele Aid” (USA only), you will have access to account information, remote door unlock, profile and more.

The Tele Aid system utilizes the cellular network for communication and the GPS (Global Positioning System) satel- lites for vehicle location. If either of these signals are unavailable, the Tele Aid system may not function and if this occurs, assistance must be sum- moned by other means.

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Emergency calls An emergency call is initiated automatical- ly: 앫 following an accident in which the

emergency tensioning devices (ETDs) or airbags deploy

앫 if the anti-theft alarm or the tow-away

alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds. See anti-theft alarm sys- tem (컄 page 79) and tow-away alarm (컄 page 80)

An emergency call can also be initiated manually by opening the cover next to the inside rear view mirror labeled SOS, then briefly pressing the button located under the cover. See below for instructions on initiating an emergency call manually. Once the emergency call is in progress, the indicator lamp in the SOS button will begin to flash. The message EMERGENCY CALL – CONNECTING CALL appears in the multifunc- tion display. When the connection is estab- lished, the message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL CONNECTED appears in the

Controls in detail Useful features

multifunction display. All information rele- vant to the emergency, such as the loca- tion of the vehicle (determined by the GPS satellite location system), vehicle model, identification number and color are gener- ated. A voice connection between the Response Center and the occupants of the vehicle will be established automatically soon af- ter the emergency call has been initiated. When a voice connection is established the audio system mutes and the message TELE AID – EMERGENCY CALL ACTIVE ap- pears in the multifunction display. The Re- sponse Center will attempt to determine more precisely the nature of the accident provided they can speak to an occupant of the vehicle.

The Tele Aid system is available if: 앫 it has been activated and is operation- al. Activation requires a subscription for monitoring services, connection and cellular air time

앫 the relevant cellular phone network

and GPS signals are available and pass the information on to the response cen- ter

Location of the vehicle on a map is only possible if the vehicle is able to receive signals from the GPS satellite network and pass the information on to the re- sponse center.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Warning!

If the indicator lamp in the SOS button is il- luminated continuously and there was no voice connection to the Response Center established, then the Tele Aid system could not initiate an emergency call (e.g. the rele- vant cellular phone network is not available). The message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL FAILED appears in the multifunction display for approx. 10 seconds.

Should this occur, assistance must be sum- moned by other means.

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Initiating an emergency call manually

왘 Wait for a voice connection to the Re-

sponse Center.

왘 Close the cover 1 after the emergency

call is concluded.

Warning!

If you feel at any way in jeopardy when in the vehicle (e.g. smoke or fire in the vehicle, ve- hicle in a dangerous road location), please do not wait for voice contact after you have pressed the emergency button. Carefully leave the vehicle and move to a safe loca- tion. The Response Center will automatically contact local emergency officials with the vehicle’s approximate location if they re- ceive an automatic SOS signal and cannot make voice contact with the vehicle occu- pants.

1 Cover 2 SOS button 왘 Briefly press on cover 1.

The cover will open.

왘 Press SOS button 2 briefly.

The indicator lamp in SOS button 2 will flash until the emergency call is con- cluded.

Roadside Assistance button • Located below the center armrest cover is the Roadside Assistance button •. 왘 Press and hold the button (for longer

than 2 seconds). A call to a Mercedes-Benz Roadside As- sistance dispatcher will be initiated. The button will flash while the call is in progress. The message ROADSIDE AS- SISTANCE – CONNECTING CALL will ap- pear in the multifunction display.

When the connection is established, the message ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multifunc- tion display. The Tele Aid system will trans- mit data generating the vehicle identification number, model, color and lo- cation (subject to availability of cellular and GPS signals). A voice connection between the Roadside Assistance dispatcher and the occupants of the vehicle will be established. When a voice connection is established the audio

system mutes and the message TELE AID – ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE CALL ACTIVE ap- pears in the multifunction display. 왘 Describe the nature of the need for as-

sistance.

The Mercedes-Benz Roadside assistance dispatcher will either dispatch a qualified Mercedes-Benz technician or arrange to tow your vehicle to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. For services such as labor and/or towing, charges may apply. Refer to the Roadside Assistance manual for more information. These programs are only available in the USA: 앫 Sign and Drive services: Services such as jump start, a few gallons of fuel or the replacement of a flat tire with the vehicle spare tire are obtainable

앫 Remote Vehicle Diagnostics: This func- tion permits the Mercedes-Benz Road- side Assistance dispatcher to download malfunction codes and actu- al vehicle data.

Controls in detail Useful features

The indicator lamp in the Roadside As- sistance button • remains illumi- nated in red for approx. 10 seconds during the system self-check after turn- ing the key in the starter switch to position 2 (together with the SOS but- ton and the Information button ¡). See system self-check (컄 page 184) when the indicator lamp does not light up in red or stays on longer than ap- proximately 10 seconds. If the indicator lamp in the Roadside Assistance button • is illuminated continuously and there was no voice connection to the Response Center es- tablished, then the Tele Aid system could not initiate a Roadside Assis- tance call (e.g. the relevant cellular phone network was not available). The message ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE – CALL FAILED appears in the multifunc- tion display.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Roadside Assistance calls can be ter- minated using the ì button on the multifunction steering wheel.

Information button ¡ Located below the center armrest cover is the Information button ¡. 왘 Press and hold the button (for longer

than 2 seconds). A call to the Customer Assistance Cen- ter will be initiated. The button will flash while the call is in progress. The message INFO – CONNECTING CALL will appear in the multifunction display.

When the connection is established, the message INFO – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multifunction display. The Tele Aid system will transmit data generating the vehicle identification number, model, color and location (subject to availability of cel- lular and GPS signals).

188

See system self-check (컄 page 184) when the indicator lamp does not light up in red or stays on longer than ap- proximately 10 seconds. If the indicator lamp in the Information button ¡ is illuminated continuous- ly and there was no voice connection to the Response Center established, then the Tele Aid system could not initiate an Information call (e.g. the relevant cellular phone network is not avail- able). The message INFO – CALL FAILED appears in the multifunc- tion display. Information calls can be terminated us- ing the ì button on the multifunc- tion steering wheel.

A voice connection between the Customer Assistance Center representative and the occupants of the vehicle will be estab- lished. When a voice connection is estab- lished the audio system mutes and the message TELE AID – INFO CALL ACTIVE appears in the multifunction display. Infor- mation regarding the operation of your ve- hicle, the nearest Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center or Mercedes-Benz USA prod- ucts and services is available to you. For more details concerning the Tele Aid system, please visit www.mbusa.com and use your ID and password (sent to you sep- arately) to learn more (USA only).

The indicator lamp in the Information button ¡ remains illuminated in red for approx. 10 seconds during the sys- tem self-check after turning key in the starter switch to position 2 (together with the SOS button and the Roadside Assistance button •).

! If the indicator lamps do not start flash- ing after pressing one of the buttons or remains illuminated (in red) at any time, the Tele Aid system has detected a fault or the service is not currently ac- tive, and may not initiate a call. Visit your Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Cen- ter and have the system checked or contact the Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada) as soon as possible.

Upgrade Signals The Tele Aid system processes calls using the following priority. 앫 Automatic emergency – First priority 앫 Manual emergency – Second priority 앫 Roadside assistance – Third priority 앫 Information – Fourth priority Should a higher priority call be initiated while you are connected, an upgrade (al- ternating) tone will be heard and the ap- propriate indicator lamp will flash. If certain information such as vehicle identi- fication number or customer information is not available, the operator may need to re- transmit. During this time you will hear a beep and voice contact will be interrupted. Voice contact will resume once the retransmis- sion is completed. Once a call is conclud- ed, a beep will be heard and the appropriate indicator lamp will stop flash- ing. The COMAND system operation will resume.

Controls in detail Useful features

If the indicator lamp continues to flash or the system does not reset, contact the Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada), or Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) in the USA or Cus- tomer Service at 1-800-387-0100 in Canada.

The indicator lamp in the respective button flashes until the call is conclud- ed. Calls can only be terminated by a Response Center or Customer Assis- tance Center representative, except Roadside Assistance and Information calls, which can also be terminated by pressing button ì on the multifunc- tion steering wheel.

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Controls in detail Useful features

When a Tele Aid call has been initiated, the COMAND system audio is muted and the selected mode (radio, tape or CD) pauses. The optional cellular phone (if installed) switches off. If you must use this phone, the vehicle must be parked. Disconnect the coiled cord and place the call. The navigation sys- tem (if engaged) will continue to run. The display in the instrument cluster is available for use and spoken com- mands are only available by pressing the RPT button on the COMAND unit. A pop-up window will appear in the CO- MAND display to indicate that a Tele Aid call is in progress.

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Remote door unlock In case you have locked your vehicle unin- tentionally (e.g. key inside vehicle), and the reserve key is not handy: 왘 Contact the Mercedes-Benz Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada). You will be asked to provide your pass- word which you provided when you completed the subscriber agreement. 왘 Then return to your vehicle and press

the tailgate lock for minimum of 20 seconds until the SOS button is flashing. The message EMERGENCY CALL – CALL CONNECTED appears in the multi- function display.

As an alternative, you may unlock the vehi- cle via Internet using the ID and password sent to you shortly after the completion of your acquaintance call.

The Response Center will then unlock your vehicle with the remote door unlocking feature.

The remote door unlock feature is avail- able if the relevant cellular phone net- work is available. The SOS button will flash and the mes- sage EMERGENCY CALL – CALL CONNECTED will appear in the mul- tifunction display to indicate receipt of the door unlock command. Once the vehicle is unlocked, a Re- sponse Center specialist will attempt to establish voice contact with the ve- hicle occupants. If the tailgate lock was pressed for more than 20 seconds before door un- lock authorization was received by the Response Center, you must wait 15 minutes before pressing the tailgate lock again.

Stolen vehicle tracking services In the event your vehicle was stolen: 왘 Report the incident to the police.

The police will issue a numbered inci- dent report.

왘 Pass this number on to the

Mercedes-Benz Response Center along with your password issued to you when you subscribed to the service. The Response Center will then attempt to covertly contact the vehicle’s Tele Aid system. Once the vehicle is lo- cated, the Response Center will con- tact the local law enforcement and you. The vehicle’s location will only be pro- vided to law enforcement.

Garage door opener

The built-in remote control is capable of operating up to three separately controlled objects.

2, 3, 4

Indicator lamp Signal transmitter key Hand-held remote control trans- mitter

Controls in detail Useful features

Warning!

When programming a garage door opener, the door moves up or down.

When programming or operating the remote control make sure there is no possibility of anyone being injured by the moving door.

Certain types of garage door openers are incompatible with the integrated opener. If you should experience diffi- culties with programming the transmit- ter, contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, or call Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA only) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.

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Controls in detail Useful features

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

interference, and

(2) this device must accept any inter-

ference received, including interfer- ence that may cause undesired operation.

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

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Programming or reprogramming the in- tegrated remote control 왘 Turn key in the starter switch to

왘 When the indicator lamp flashes rapid-

ly, release both buttons.

왘 To program the remaining two buttons,

position 1 or 2.

repeat the above steps.

If, after several attempts, you do not successfully program the integrated re- mote control device to learn the signal of the hand-held transmitter, the ga- rage door opener could be equipped with the “rolling code feature”.

왘 Hold the end of the hand-held transmit-

ter of the device you wish to train approximately 2 to 5 inches (5 cm to 12 cm) away from the surface of the in- tegrated remote control located on the inside rear view mirror, keeping the in- dicator lamp in view.

왘 Using both hands, simultaneously push the hand-held transmitter button and the desired integrated remote control button. Do not release the buttons until completing next step.

왘 The indicator lamp on the integrated remote control will flash, first slowly and then rapidly. The rapid flashing lamp indicates successful program- ming of the new frequency signal.

Controls in detail Useful features

You have 30 seconds time to initiate the following step. 왘 Firmly press and release the pro-

grammed integrated remote control transmit button.

왘 Press and release same button a sec- ond time to complete the training pro- cess.

Some garage door openers may require you to do this procedure a third time to complete the training. 왘 Confirm the garage door operation by pressing the programmed button on the integrated remote control transmit- ter.

Canadian programming During programming, your hand-held transmitter may automatically stop trans- mitting. 왘 Continue to press and hold the inte-

grated remote control transmitter but- ton (refer to steps two through four in the “Programming” portion) while you press and re-press (“cycle”) your hand-held transmitter every two sec- onds until the frequency signal has been learned. Upon successful training, the indicator lamp will flash slowly and then rapidly after several seconds.

Rolling code programming To train a garage door opener (or other roll- ing code devices) with the rolling code fea- ture, follow these instructions after completing the “Programming” portion of this text. (A second person may make the following training procedures quicker and easier.) 왘 Locate training button on the garage

door opener motor head unit. Exact location and color of the button may vary by garage door opener brand. If there is difficulty locating the trans- mitting button, reference to garage door opener operator’s manual.

왘 Press “training” button on the garage

door opener motor head unit. The “training light” is activated.

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Controls in detail Useful features

Operation of remote control 왘 Turn key in starter switch to position 1

or 2.

왘 Select and press the appropriate but- ton to activate the remote controlled device. The integrated remote control trans- mitter continues to send the signal as long as the button is pressed – up to 20 seconds.

Erasing the remote control memory 왘 Turn key in starter switch to position 1

or 2.

왘 Simultaneously hold down the left and

right side buttons for approximately 20 seconds, or until the indicator lamp blinks rapidly. The codes of all three channels are erased.

If you sell your vehicle, erase the codes of all three channels.

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Heated steering wheel

The steering wheel heater warms up the leather area of the steering wheel. The lever is on the lower left-hand side of the steering wheel.

1 Switching on 2 Switching off 3 Indicator lamp

Switching on 왘 Turn key in the starter switch to

position 1 or 2.

왘 Turn lever in direction of arrow 1.

The steering wheel is heated. Indicator lamp 3 lights up.

Switching off 왘 Turn the lever in direction of arrow 2. The steering wheel heater is turned off. Indicator lamp 3 goes out.

The steering wheel heater does not turn off automatically.

Operation The first 1000 miles (1500 km)

Driving instructions

At the gas station

Engine compartment

Battery

Tires and wheels

Winter driving

Maintenance

Vehicle care

195

Operation The first 1000 miles (1500 km)

In the “Operation” section you will find de- tailed information on operating, maintain- ing and caring for your vehicle.

196

The first 1000 miles (1500 km) The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satis- fied you will be with its performance later on. 앫 Drive your vehicle during the first

1000 miles (1500 km) at varying but moderate vehicle and engine speeds. 앫 During this period, avoid heavy loads (full throttle driving) and excessive en- gine speeds (no more than 2/3 of maxi- mum rpm in each gear).

앫 Avoid accelerating by kick-down. 앫 Do not attempt to slow the vehicle

down by shifting to a lower gear using the selector lever.

앫 Select positions 3, 2 or 1 only when driving at moderate speeds (for hill driving).

After 1000 miles (1500 km) you may grad- ually increase vehicle and engine speeds to the permissible maximum.

Additional instructions for AMG vehi- cles: 앫 During the first 1000 miles

(500 km) do not exceed a speed of 85 mph (140 km/h).

앫 During this period, avoid engine speeds above 4500 rpm in each gear.

All of the above instructions, as may apply to your vehicle type, also apply when driv- ing the first 1000 miles (1500 km) after the engine, the transfer case, the front differ- ential or the rear differential has been re- placed.

Always obey applicable speed limits.

Operation Driving instructions

Drinking and driving

Pedals

Warning!

Warning!

Keep driver’s foot area clear at all times. Ob- jects stored in this area may impair pedal movement.

Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and driving are a very dangerous combina- tion. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect your reflexes, perceptions and judgement.

The possibility of a serious or even fatal ac- cident is sharply increased when you drink or take drugs and drive.

Don’t drink or take drugs and drive or allow anyone to drive after drinking or taking drugs.

Driving instructions Drive sensibly – save fuel

Fuel consumption, to a great extent, de- pends on driving habits and operating con- ditions. To save fuel you should: 앫 Keep tires at the recommended infla-

tion pressures

앫 Remove unnecessary loads 앫 Allow engine to warm up under low

load use

앫 Avoid frequent acceleration and decel-

eration

앫 Have all maintenance work performed

at regular intervals by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center

Fuel consumption is also increased by driv- ing in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic, on short trips and in hilly country.

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Operation Driving instructions

Power assistance

Warning!

When the engine is not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to stop or steer the vehi- cle.

Brakes

Warning!

After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through wa- ter deep enough to wet brake components or salty road conditions, the first braking ac- tion may be somewhat reduced and in- creased pedal pressure may be necessary to obtain expected braking effect. Maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.

198

Resting your foot on the brake pedal will cause excessive and premature wear of the brake pads.

It can also result in the brakes overheating, thereby significantly reducing their effec- tiveness. It may not be possible to stop the vehicle in sufficient time to avoid an acci- dent.

To help prevent brake disk corrosion after driving on wet road surfaces (particularly salted roads), it is advisable to brake the vehicle with considerable force prior to parking. The heat generated serves to dry the brakes. If your brake system is normally only sub- jected to moderate loads, you should occa- sionally test the effectiveness of the brakes by applying above-normal braking pressure at higher speeds. This will also enhance the grip of the brake pads.

Be very careful not to endanger other road users when you apply the brakes. Refer to the description of the Brake Assist System (BAS) (컄 page 73).

If the parking brake is released and the brake warning lamp in the instrument clus- ter stays on and there is no audible warn- ing (EBB), the brake fluid level in the reservoir is too low. Brake pad wear or a leak in the system may be the reason for low brake fluid in the res- ervoir. Have the brake system inspected at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Cen- ter immediately. All checks and service work on the brake system should be carried out by an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. Install only brake pads and brake fluid recommended by Mercedes-Benz.

Warning!

If other than recommended brake pads are installed, or other than recommended brake fluid is used, the braking properties of the vehicle can be degraded to an extent that safe braking is substantially impaired. This could result in an accident.

When driving down long and steep grades, relieve the load on the brakes by selecting gear range 3, 2 or 1 on the automatic transmission to use the en- gine’s braking power (컄 page 137). This helps prevent overheating of the brakes and reduces brake pad wear.

Operation Driving instructions

After hard braking, it is advisable to drive on for some time, rather than immediately parking, so the air stream will cool down the brakes faster.

Parking

Warning!

Driving off

Apply the brakes to test them briefly after driving off. Perform this procedure only when the road is clear of other traffic. Warm up the engine smoothly. Do not place full load on the engine until the oper- ating temperature has been reached. When starting off on a slippery surface, do not allow one drive wheel to spin for an ex- tended period with the ESP switched off. Doing so may cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. To ensure sufficient traction during off-road driving, activate differential locks as needed (컄 page 145).

Do not park this vehicle in areas where com- bustible materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

To reduce the risk of personal injury as a re- sult of vehicle movement, before turning off the engine and leaving the vehicle always: 앫 Keep right foot on brake pedal. 앫 Pull the parking brake lever up as many

notches as possible.

앫 Move the selector lever to position P. 앫 Slowly release brake pedal. 앫 When parked on an incline, turn front

wheel towards the road curb.

앫 Turn the key to starter switch position 0

and remove.

앫 Take the key and lock vehicle when leav-

ing.

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Operation Driving instructions

Set the parking brake whenever park- ing or leaving the vehicle. In addition, move selector lever to position P. In ad- dition, when parking on hills, always set the parking brake and turn front wheel towards the curb.

Tires

Warning!

Tread wear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These indicators are located in six places on the tread circumference and be- come visible at a tread depth of approxi- mately 1⁄16 in (1.5 mm), at which point the tire is considered worn and should be re- placed. The tread wear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread.

Warning!

Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You may lose control of the vehicle. Continued driving with a flat tire or driving at high speed with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-up and possibly a fire.

Warning!

Hydroplaning

Depending on the depth of the water layer on the road, hydroplaning may occur even at low speeds and with new tires. Reduce vehicle speed, avoid track grooves in the road and apply brakes cautiously in the rain.

If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that possi- ble damage to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on the hazard warning flash- ers, carefully slow down, and drive with cau- tion to an area which is a safe distance from the road.

Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires appear unsafe, have it towed to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center or tire dealer for repairs.

Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. As tread depth approaches 1⁄16 in (1.5 mm), the adhesion properties on a wet road are sharply reduced.

Depending upon the weather and/or road surface (conditions), the tire traction varies widely.

Specified tire pressures must be main- tained. This applies particularly if the tires are subject to high loads (e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, high ambient temperatures).

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Operation Driving instructions

Tire traction

The safe speed on a wet, snow covered or icy road is always lower than on a dry road. You should pay particular attention to the condition of the road whenever the outside temperatures are close to the freezing point.

Warning!

If ice has formed on the road, tire traction will be substantially reduced. Under such weather conditions, drive, steer and brake with extreme caution.

Mercedes-Benz recommends M+S rated radial-ply tires with a minimum tread depth of approximately 1⁄8 in (4 mm) for the win- ter season for all four wheels to insure nor- mal balanced handling characteristics. On packed snow, they can reduce your stop- ping distance as compared with summer tires.

Stopping distance, however, is still consid- erably greater than when the road is not covered with snow or ice. Exercise appro- priate caution.

Avoid spinning of one drive wheel. This may cause serious damage to the drive train which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

An electronic speed limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding the speed rating. Despite of the tire speed rating, local speed limits should be obeyed. Use pru- dent driving speeds appropriate to prevail- ing conditions.

Warning!

Tire speed rating

Additional information on winter tires can be found under “Winter tires” (컄 page 228).

G 500, G 55 AMG Your vehicle is factory equipped with “V”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of 150 mph (240 km/h).

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

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

201

Operation Driving instructions

Winter driving instructions

The most important rule for slippery or icy roads is to drive sensibly and to avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and steering maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control system under such conditions. When the vehicle is in danger of skidding, move selector lever to position N. Try to keep the vehicle under control by correc- tive steering action.

Information on driving with snow chains (컄 page 229).

Warning!

On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehi- cle control. Your vehicle’s ABS will not pre- vent this type of control loss.

Do not engage the transfer case in position LOW when driving on ice or packed snow. At speeds below 18 mph (30 km/h) vehicle steering is adversely affected by the LOW RANGE – ABS (컄 page 72).

Road salts and chemicals can adversely af- fect braking efficiency. Increased pedal force may become necessary to produce the normal brake effect. We therefore recommend depressing the brake pedal periodically when traveling at length on salt-strewn roads. This can bring road salt impaired braking efficiency back to normal. Be very careful that you carry out these braking maneu- vers without endangering any other road users. If the vehicle is parked after being driven on salt-treated roads, the braking efficien- cy should be tested as soon as possible af- ter driving is resumed while observing the safety rules in the previous paragraph.

Warning!

If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow, make sure that snow is kept clear of the exhaust pipe and from around the vehicle with the engine running. Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle in- terior resulting in unconsciousness and death.

To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, open a window slightly on the side of the ve- hicle not facing the wind.

Warning!

The outside temperature indicator is not de- signed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. In- dicated temperatures just above the freez- ing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice.

For more information on winter driving (컄 page 228).

202

Operation Driving instructions

Standing water

Passenger compartment

Off-road driving

Do not drive through flooded areas or water of unknown depth. Before driving through water, determine its depth. It should not be deeper than approxi- mately 19 inches (48 cm). If you must drive through standing wa- ter, drive slowly to prevent water from entering the passenger compartment or the engine compartment. Water in these areas could cause damage to electrical components or wiring of the engine or transmission, or could result in water being ingested by the engine through the air intake causing severe internal engine damage. Any such dam- age is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Warning!

Warning!

Always fasten items being carried as secure- ly as possible.

In an accident, during hard braking or sud- den maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle, and cause injury to vehicle occupants unless the items are securely fastened in the vehicle.

The rear cargo compartment is the preferred place to carry objects. Always use partition net when transporting cargo. Partition net cannot secure hard or heavy objects. Al- ways fasten items being carried as securely as possible using the cargo tie-down rings in the cargo area floor and fastening material.

Do not load items on the roof. It may cause instability during some maneuvers which could result in an accident. This vehicle is not intended to carry items on its roof. Thus roof rails and roof mounted ski or bike hold- ers must not be used.

Do not load items on the roof. It may cause instability during some maneuvers which could result in an accident.

Warning!

Drive slowly in unknown terrain. This will make it easier to recognize unexpected ob- stacles and avoid damage to the vehicle.

To help avoid the vehicle rolling over, never turn it around on steep inclines. If the vehi- cle cannot complete the attempted climb, back it down in reverse gear.

Do not drive along the side of a slope (dan- ger of vehicle rollover). If in doing so the ve- hicle begins to show a tendency to roll, immediately steer into a line of gravity (straight up or downhill).

컄컄

203

Operation Driving instructions

Never let the vehicle roll backwards in idle. You may lose control of the vehicle if you use only the service brake.

Sand, dirt, mud and other material having friction property can cause exceptional wear and tear as well as brake failure.

Have the brakes checked for dirt build-up and cleaned. There is otherwise a risk that full braking power may not be available in an emergency.

Read this chapter carefully before you be- gin off-road travel. Familiarize yourself with the vehicle char- acteristics and gear changing before you attempt any difficult terrain off-road driv- ing. We recommend that you start out with easy off-road travel.

204

Special driving features for off-road driving The following driving features are available for specific kind of operation: 앫 ABS (컄 page 71) 앫 ESP (컄 page 75) 앫 4-ETS (컄 page 74) 앫 Differential lock (컄 page 145) 앫 Transfer case (컄 page 141)

Off-road driving rules 왘 Engage the transfer case in position

LOW before driving under off-road con- ditions (컄 page 141).

왘 If necessary activate differential locks

(컄 page 145). The ABS, BAS and ESP are switched off automatically when the differential locks are activated.

왘 Fasten items being carried as securely

as possible (컄 page 173).

Whenever driving in off-road mode, we recommend: 앫 Keeping doors, tailgate, windows

and sliding/pop-up roof closed.

앫 Switching cruise control off.

Observe the following during off-road driving: 앫 Adjust vehicle speed to condition of terrain. The more uneven, rutty and steeper the terrain, the lower the speed should be. Drive through wa- ter slowly at an even speed, avoid- ing a bow wave.

앫 Be especially careful when driving in unknown territory. It may be nec- essary to get out of the vehicle and scout the path you intend to take. 앫 Watch out for obstacles, such as rocks, holes, tree stumps and ruts.

Checklist before off-road driving

Engine oil level 앫 Check the engine oil level

(컄 page 218). The display ENGINE OIL LEVEL - O.K. must appear in the mul- tifunction display. Only then can the vehicle obtain a trou- ble-free oil supply, even on steep gradi- ents.

Tires 앫 Check the tread depth and maintain specified tire pressure (see tire pres- sure label inside the fuel filler flap).

앫 Check tires for possible damage and

remove foreign objects.

앫 Replace missing valve caps.

앫 Avoid excessive engine

speeds – drive at moderate engine speeds (max. 3000 RPM).

앫 Before driving through water, deter-

mine its depth.

앫 Do not stop vehicle immersed in water, and do not shut off the en- gine.

앫 Maintaining continuous and rea-

sonably vigorous accelerator appli- cation when driving in sandy soil will help overcome the vehicle roll- ing resistance, and help to prevent the vehicle from sinking into the ground.

앫 Do not initiate jumps with the vehi-

cle. It interrupts the forward mo- mentum of the vehicle.

앫 Always drive on slopes with the en-

gine running and the vehicle in gear.

앫 Inspect the vehicle for possible damage after each off-road trip.

Operation Driving instructions

Rims 앫 Dented or bent rims can cause tire pressure loss and damage the tire beads. For this reason, check and, if necessary, change rims before driving off-road.

Vehicle tool kit 앫 Check if the vehicle jack is functional. 앫 In all cases take the vehicle tool kit, a strong tow rope, a shovel and a small plank (to put under the vehicle jack on sandy soil) with you.

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Operation Driving instructions

Driving in steep terrain

Slope angle 1 27° 2 36° 앫 Comply with the warnings

(컄 page 203) and rules for off-road driving (컄 page 204).

앫 Driving on embankments, slopes and

other steep inclines should only be done straight up or downhill, i.e. in the line of gravity. Maximum vehicle climb- ing ability is a 80% grade.

앫 Select gear range 2 or 1 on the auto-

matic transmission (컄 page 137).

206

Driving across a hilltop Decelerate just ahead of a hilltop (do not select gear range N), to prevent the vehi- cle from speeding up too much after climb- ing a hill. Use the momentum of the vehicle to drive across the hilltop. After climbing a hill, driving in this manner prevents the vehicle from: 앫 jumping across the hilltop 앫 loosing its forward momentum. 앫 speeding up too much after climbing

the hill.

앫 Drive slowly. 앫 Utilize the engine’s braking power

when descending a slope, observe the engine speed (do not overrev the en- gine). Apply the service brake as need- ed.

앫 Check the brakes after a lengthy down-

grade drive.

Traction in steep terrain Be easy on the accelerator and watch for continuous wheel traction when driving in steep terrain.

The 4-ETS helps greatly when starting out on a steep incline when the front wheels have then the tendency to slip due to the weight shifting away the front axle.The 4-ETS recognizes the sit- uation and limits the torque for the front wheels by braking them. Simulta- neously the torque for the rear wheels is provided.

Driving downhill 앫 Select gear range 1 on the automatic

transmission (컄 page 137).

앫 Drive downhill observing the same rules as driving uphill (컄 page 206).

Only apply the service brake if the vehi- cle travels straight downhill, i.e. in the line of gravity.

The special LOW RANGE – ABS setting allows for precise and brief (cyclical) blocking of the front wheels, permitting them to dig into loose ground. Remember that, when stopped, the front wheels slide across a surface and thus lose their ability to steer the vehi- cle.

Driving through water

1 19 in (48 cm) 앫 Before driving through water, deter-

mine its depth. It should not be deeper than approxi- mately 19 in (48 cm).

앫 Comply with the warnings

(컄 page 203) and rules for off-road driving (컄 page 204).

앫 Switch off the exterior lamps as well as

the climate control.

앫 Select gear range 2 or 1 on the auto-

matic transmission (컄 page 137).

Operation Driving instructions

앫 Enter the water only at a shallow spot,

driving at walking speed.

Never accelerate before driving into the water. The bow wave could force water into the engine and auxiliary equipment, thus damaging them.

앫 Do not stop vehicle immersed in water,

and do not shut off the engine. There is a very high level of driving re- sistance in water. The surface is slip- pery and may not be firm, making pulling away in water difficult and dan- gerous.

앫 Clean mud off the tire tread after driv-

ing through water.

앫 To dry the brakes, apply pressure to the brake pedal several times after leaving the water.

207

Operation Driving instructions

Crossing obstacles

208

Obstacles can damage the vehicle un- dercarriage or suspension compo- nents. If possible use the assistance of a second person. After off-road driving or crossing obsta- cles, inspect vehicle for any damage, especially vehicle undercarriage and suspension components. Failure to do so can adversely affect the vehicle's fu- ture performance, including increased chance of an accident.

앫 Check the vehicle clearance before

crossing obstacles.

앫 Comply with the warnings

(컄 page 203) and rules for off-road driving (컄 page 204).

앫 Select gear range 1 on the automatic

transmission (컄 page 137).

앫 Cross obstacles (e.g. tree stumps or

big rocks) very slowly by aiming one of the front wheels at the center of the ob- stacle, and repeat same with the rear wheel.

Special attention is needed when you cross obstacles on a steep incline. The vehicle could slide sideways as a result of its possible slanted position.

Ruts

앫 Check the vehicle clearance before

Returning from off-road driving

Operation Driving instructions

driving in ruts.

앫 Comply with the warnings

(컄 page 203) and rules for off-road driving (컄 page 204).

앫 Select gear range 1 on the automatic

transmission (컄 page 137).

앫 Drive slowly next to the ruts rather than

through them if at all possible.

A number of off-road tracks or other by- roads have deep ruts. If the vehicle does not have enough ground clear- ance: 앫 it could be damaged 앫 the underside of the vehicle may come down on a surface and re- main stuck

After off-road driving or crossing obsta- cles, inspect vehicle for any damage, especially vehicle undercarriage and suspension components. Failure to do so can adversely affect the vehicle's fu- ture performance, including increased chance of an accident.

Warning!

Never drive on pavement with activated dif- ferential locks. Engaged front axle differen- tial locks limits ability to move around curves.

If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that possi- ble damage to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on the hazard warning flash- ers, carefully slow down, and drive with cau- tion to an area which is a safe distance from the roadway.

Inspect the tires and under the vehicle for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires ap- pear unsafe, have it towed to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center or tire dealer for repairs.

Damage to the vehicle negatively influences driving comfort and poses the risk of acci- dent to you and other drivers.

209

앫 Check tires for possible damage and remove foreign objects. Clean all exte- rior lamps and conduct a brake test. 앫 Clean all exterior lamps and check

them for possible damage.

앫 Check for brush or branches caught in

the undercarriage. They could increase the possibility of a fire, as well as cut fuel and/or brake lines, puncture rubber bellows of the axles or drive shafts.

앫 After continued operation in mud,

sand, water or other dirty conditions, clean the brake discs, wheels, brake pads and check and clean axle joints.

앫 Conduct a brake test.

Control and operation of radio trans- mitters

COMAND, radio and telephone*

Warning!

Do not forget that your primary responsibili- ty is to drive the vehicle safely. Only operate the COMAND, radio or telephone1 if road, traffic and weather conditions permit.

Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of approximately 50 feet (approximately 14 m) every second.

1 Observe all legal requirements.

Operation Driving instructions

Off-road driving increases strain on the ve- hicle. We recommend that you inspect the vehi- cle for possible damage after each off-road trip. Recognizing any damage and a subse- quent timely repair reduces the chance of a possible breakdown or accident later on. Proceed as follows: 앫 Switch the transfer case in position

HIGH (컄 page 141).

앫 Disengage differential locks

(컄 page 146).

앫 Remove excessive dirt from tires,

wheels, wheel housings, and under- body. For instance, after driving in mud, clean the radiator, chassis, engine, brakes, and wheels from extreme dirt using a strong jet of water.

앫 Inspect frame, oil pan, brake hoses, etc., as well as vehicle underbody for possible damage.

210

Telephones and two-way radios

Driving abroad

Warning!

Never operate radio transmitters equipped with a built-in or attached antenna (i.e. with- out being connected to an external antenna) from inside the vehicle while the engine is running. Doing so could lead to a malfunc- tion of the vehicle’s electronic system, pos- sibly resulting in an accident and/or personal injury.

Radio transmitters, such as a portable tele- phone or a citizens band unit should only be used inside the vehicle if they are con- nected to an antenna that is installed on the outside of the vehicle. Refer to the radio transmitter operation in- structions regarding use of an external an- tenna.

Abroad, there is a widely-spread Mercedes-Benz service network at your disposal. If you plan to drive into areas which are not listed in the index of your Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center directo- ry, you should request pertinent informa- tion from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Catalytic converter

Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with monolithic type catalytic converters, an important element in conjunction with the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial con- trol of the pollutants in the exhaust emis- sions. Keep your vehicle in proper operating condition by following our rec- ommended maintenance instructions as outlined in your Service Booklet.

Operation Driving instructions

To prevent damage to the catalytic con- verters, use only premium unleaded gasoline in this vehicle. Any noticeable irregularities in engine operation should be repaired promptly. Otherwise, excessive unburned fuel may reach the catalytic converter, causing it to overheat and start a fire.

Warning!

As with any vehicle, do not idle, park or op- erate this vehicle in areas where combusti- ble materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

211

Warning!

Coolant temperature

Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, and inhaling it can cause uncon- sciousness and lead to death.

Do not run the engine in confined areas (such as a garage) which are not properly ventilated. If you think that exhaust gas fumes are entering the vehicle while driving, have the cause determined and corrected immediately. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with at least one win- dow fully open at all times.

During severe operating conditions and stop-and-go city traffic, the coolant tem- perature may rise to approx. 248°F (120°C). The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature above 248°F (120°C). Doing so may cause serious en- gine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Excessive coolant temperatures trigger a warning message in the multifunction display (컄 page 252).

Operation Driving instructions

Emission control

Certain engine systems serve to keep the toxic components of the exhaust gases within permissible legal limits. These systems, of course, will function properly only when maintained strictly ac- cording to factory specifications. Any ad- justments on the engine should, therefore, be carried out only by qualified Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center autho- rized technicians. Engine adjustments should not be altered in any way. More- over, the specified service jobs must be carried out regularly according to Mercedes-Benz servicing requirements. For details refer to the Service Booklet.

212

Warning!

앫 Driving when your engine is badly over-

heated can cause some fluids which may have leaked into the engine com- partment to catch fire. You could be se- riously burned

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

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

Operation Driving instructions

213

Operation At the gas station At the gas station

Warning!

Gasoline is highly flammable and poisonous. It burns violently and can cause serious inju- ry. Whenever you are around gasoline, avoid inhaling fumes and skin contact, extinguish all smoking materials. Never allow sparks, flame or smoking materials near gasoline!

Failure to remove the fuel cap slowly could result in personal injury.

The fuel filler flap is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle towards the rear. Locking/unlocking the vehicle with the remote control automatically locks/unlocks the fuel filler flap.

214

Warning!

Overfilling of the fuel tank may create pres- sure in the system which could cause a gas discharge. This could cause the gas to spray back out when removing the fuel pump noz- zle, which could cause personal injury.

왘 Replace the fuel cap by turning it to the

right. You should hear the fuel filler cap en- gage.

왘 Close the fuel filler flap.

The fuel filler cap is tethered to the fuel filler neck. Do not drop the cap. It could damage the vehicle paint finish. When refueling the vehicle, make cer- tain that no gasoline comes into con- tact with plastic tail lamp to prevent damaging the lens.

왘 Turn off the engine. 왘 Remove the key from the starter

switch.

왘 Open the fuel filler flap by pushing at

the point indicated by the arrow.

왘 Turn the fuel cap to the left and hold on to it until possible pressure is released. 왘 Take off the cap and set it in the recess

on the fuel filler flap.

왘 To prevent fuel vapors from escaping into open air, fully insert filler nozzle unit.

왘 Only fill your tank until the filler nozzle unit cuts out – do not top up or overfill.

i Use only premium unleaded gasoline with a minimum Posted Octane Rating of 91 (average of 96 RON/86 MON). Information on gasoline quality can normally be found on the fuel pump. More information on gasoline can be found in the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet.

Leaving the engine running and the fuel cap open can cause the ? lamp to illuminate. See also “Practical hints” section (컄 page 243).

Check regularly and before a long trip

1 Coolant 2 Brake fluid

Coolant For normal replenishing, use water (pota- ble water quality). For more information on coolant level see (컄 page 220) and the “Technical data” section (컄 page 316).

Brake fluid More information on brake fluid can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 316).

Operation At the gas station

Windshield/rear window washer sys- tem and headlamp cleaning system For more information on refilling the reser- voir, see (컄 page 222).

Engine oil level For more information on engine oil, see (컄 page 218).

Opening the hood, see (컄 page 216).

Vehicle lighting Check function and cleanliness. More in- formation on replacing light bulbs can be found in the “Practical hints” section (컄 page 279). Exterior lamp switch (컄 page 100).

Tire inflation pressure For more information on tire inflation pres- sure, see (컄 page 225).

215

Operation Engine compartment Engine compartment Hood

Warning!

Do not pull the release lever while the vehi- cle is in motion. Otherwise the hood could be forced open by passing air flow.

Opening The pull release lever is under the driver’s side of the instrument panel.

1 Release lever

216

왘 Pull release lever 1 upward.

The hood is unlocked.

Warning!

To avoid damage to the windshield wip- ers or hood, open the hood only with wipers in parked position.

2 Safety hook 왘 Lift hood up slightly. 왘 Pull safety hook 2 in direction of arrow

and open hood.

To help prevent personal injury, stay clear of moving parts when the hood is open and the engine is running. Make sure the hood is properly closed before driving. When closing the hood, use extreme caution not to catch hands or fingers. The radiator fan may continue to run for ap- proximately 30 seconds or even restart af- ter the engine has been turned off. Stay clear of fan blades.

Warning!

If you see flames or smoke coming from the engine compartment, or if the coolant tem- perature display indicates that the engine is overheated, do not open the hood. Move away from vehicle and do not open the hood until the engine has cooled. If necessary, call the fire department.

Warning!

Closing

The engine is equipped with a transistorized ignition system. Because of the high voltage, it is dangerous to touch any components (ig- nition coils, spark plug sockets, diagnostic socket) of the ignition system 앫 with the engine running 앫 while starting the engine 앫 if ignition is “on” and the engine is

turned manually

Warning!

Be careful that you do not close the hood on anyone.

왘 Lower hood and let it drop into lock from a height of approximately 0.7 ft (20 cm). The hood will lock audibly.

왘 Check to make sure that the hood is

fully closed. If you can raise the hood at a point above the headlamps, then it is not properly closed. Open it again and let it drop with somewhat greater force.

Do not push the hood closed manually, as this could damage it.

Operation Engine compartment

Engine oil

The amount of oil your engine needs will depend on a number of factors, including driving style. Higher oil consumption can occur when 앫 the vehicle is new 앫 the vehicle is driven frequently at high-

er engine speeds.

Engine oil consumption checks should only be made after the vehicle break-in period.

Do not use any special lubricant addi- tives, as these may damage the drive assemblies. Using special additives not approved by Mercedes-Benz will re- strict your warranty entitlement. More information on this subject is available at any Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

217

Operation Engine compartment

Checking engine oil level When checking the oil level the vehicle must 앫 be parked on level ground 앫 be at normal operating temperature 앫 have been stationary for at least five

minutes with the engine turned off

With the operating system You can check the engine oil level on the multifunction display. 왘 Turn the key in the starter switch to

position 2.

The standard display (컄 page 111) should appear in the multifunction display. 왘 Press button k or j on the

steering wheel until the following mes- sage is seen in the multifunction dis- play: ENGINE OIL LEVEL - MEASUREMENT IN PROCESS! MEASUREMENT CORRECT ONLY IF VEH. LEVEL

218

After about three seconds, this mes- sage is displayed: ENGINE OIL LEVEL – MEASURING NOW!

One of the following messages will sub- sequently appear in the indicator: 앫 ENGINE OIL LEVEL – OK 앫 ENGINE OIL LEVEL – ADD 1.0 QUART

(1.0 LITER)!

앫 ENGINE OIL LEVEL – ADD 1.5 QUART

(1.5 LITER)!

앫 ENGINE OIL LEVEL – ADD 2.0 QUART

(2.0 LITER)!

If you want to cancel the measuring process, press the k or j but- tons on the multifunction steering wheel.

Other display messages If there is excessive engine oil with the en- gine at normal operating temperature, the following message will appear: ENGINE OIL LEVEL – REDUCE OIL LEVEL! 왘 Have excess oil siphoned.

Excessive oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. The oil dipstick tube allows for draining of oil by using a suction device (컄 page 219).

If the key is not turned to position 2 in the starter switch: ENGINE OIL LEVEL – SWITCH ON IGNITION! 왘 Switch on the ignition.

If you see the message OBSERVE WAITING PERIOD 왘 If engine is at normal operating temper- ature, wait five minutes before repeat- ing check procedure.

왘 If the engine is not yet at normal oper- ating temperature, wait 30 minutes be- fore repeating check procedure.

If you see the message: ENGINE OIL LEVEL – NOT WHEN ENGINE ON 왘 Turn off the engine. If engine is at nor- mal operating temperature, wait five minutes before checking oil. If the en- gine is not yet at normal operating tem- perature, you must wait 30 minutes before checking oil.

More information on engine oil can be found in the “Technical data” section (컄 page 316).

Operation Engine compartment

With the dipstick

1 Oil dipstick 2 Oil filler cap 왘 Remove oil dipstick 1. 왘 Wipe oil dipstick 1 clean. 왘 Fully insert oil dipstick 1 in tube, and remove after three seconds to obtain accurate reading.

Oil dipstick 왘 The oil level is correct when it is be-

tween the lower (min) and upper (max) mark of the dipstick.

왘 Add engine oil if necessary.

Fill quantity between upper and lower dipstick marking, the level is approxi- mately 2.1 US qt (2.0 l).

219

Operation Engine compartment

Adding engine oil 왘 Unscrew cap 2 from the filler neck. 왘 Add oil. Be careful not to overfill with

oil.

Be careful not to spill any oil when adding. Avoid environmental damage caused by oil coming into contact with the ground or wa- ter.

Excessive oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. The oil dipstick 1 tube allows for drain- ing of oil by using a suction device.

왘 Screw cap 2 back on the filler neck.

220

Transmission fluid level

The transmission fluid level does not need to be checked. The transmission has a per- manent supply of automatic transmission fluid. If you notice transmission fluid loss or gear shifting malfunctions, have an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center check the automatic transmission.

Coolant level

The engine coolant is a mixture of water and anticorrosion/antifreeze. When checking the coolant level 앫 the vehicle must be parked on level

ground

앫 the engine must be cool. The coolant level should reach the COLD LEVEL mark in the reservoir.

Warning!

In order to avoid any possibly serious burns: 앫 Use extreme caution when opening the hood if there are any signs of steam or coolant leaking from the cooling system, or if the coolant temperature display in- dicates that the coolant is overheated. 앫 Do not remove pressure cap on coolant reservoir if engine temperature is above 194°F (90°C). Allow engine to cool down before removing cap. The coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is under pressure.

앫 Using a rag, slowly open the cap approx- imately 1⁄2 turn to relieve excess pres- sure. If opened immediately, scalding hot fluid and steam will be blown out un- der pressure.

앫 Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine

parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene gly- col which may burn if it comes into con- tact with hot engine parts.