2013 Mercedes-benz G Class Owners Manual

Display messages Check Trailer Left Turn Signal or  Check Trailer Right Turn Signal Check Trailer Brake Lamp

Check Rear Left Turn Signal or  Check Rear Right Turn Signal Check Front Left Turn Signal or  Check Front Right Turn Signal Check Left Mirror Turn Signal or  Check Right Mirror Turn Signal Check Center Brake Lamp Check Left Brake LamporCheck Right Brake Lamp Check Left High BeamorCheck Right High Beam

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The left or right-hand trailer turn signal lamp is defective. X Check whether you are permitted to change the bulb yourself. or X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The trailer brake lamp is defective. X Check whether you are permitted to change the bulb yourself. or X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. The rear left-hand or rear right-hand turn signal is defective. X Check whether you are permitted to replace the bulb yourself

(Y page 109).

or X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The front left-hand or front right-hand turn signal is defective. X Check whether you are permitted to replace the bulb yourself

(Y page 109).

or X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. The turn signal in the left-hand or right-hand exterior mirror is defective. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The high-mounted brake lamp is faulty. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The left or right-hand brake lamp is defective. X Replace the bulb (Y page 108).

The left or right-hand high beam is defective. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

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233

Display messages License Plate Lamp

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions There is a short circuit in the LED lamps. The LEDs have been switched off. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

Check Left Fog LamporCheck Right Fog Lamp Rear Fog Lamp

Check Front Left Parking Lamp or  Check Front Right Parking Lamp Backup Light Check Front Left Sidemarker LamporCheck Front Right Sidemarker Lamp Check Left Tail LamporCheck Right Tail Lamp

The left-hand or right-hand front fog lamp is defective. X Replace the bulb (Y page 108).

The rear fog lamp is defective. X Check whether you are permitted to replace the bulb yourself

(Y page 109).

or X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The front left or front right parking or standing lamp is defective. X Check whether you are permitted to replace the bulb yourself

(Y page 109).

or X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The backup lamp is defective. X Replace the bulb (Y page 108).

The left or right front side marker lamp is defective. X Check whether you are permitted to replace the bulb yourself

(Y page 109).

or X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The left or right-hand tail lamp is defective. X Check whether you are permitted to replace the bulb yourself

(Y page 109).

or X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

234 Display messages

Display messages Check Left Daytime Running Light or  Check Right Daytime Running Light Malfunction See Operator's Manual Auto Lamp Function Inoperative Switch Off Lights

Engine Display messages Check Coolant Level See Operator's Manual

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The left or right-hand daytime running lamp is defective. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The exterior lighting is defective. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The light sensor is defective. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The lights are still switched on when you leave the vehicle. A warning tone also sounds. X Turn the light switch to Ã.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The coolant level is too low. X Add coolant, observing the warning notes before doing so

(Y page 291).

X Have the coolant system checked at a qualified specialist

workshop if the coolant needs topping up more often than usual.

? The fan motor is faulty.

X At coolant temperatures below 248 ‡ (120 †), drive to the next

qualified specialist workshop.

X Avoid heavy loads on the engine as you do so, e.g. driving in

mountainous terrain and stop-start traffic.

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235

Display messages Coolant Too Hot Stop Vehicle Turn Engine Off

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The coolant is too hot. A warning tone also sounds. G WARNING Do not drive when your engine is overheated. This can cause some fluids which may have leaked into the engine compartment to catch fire. Steam from the overheated engine can also cause serious burns which can occur just by opening the hood. There is a risk of injury. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely and switch off the engine,

paying attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 156). X Leave the vehicle and keep a safe distance from the vehicle until

the engine has cooled down.

X Make sure that the air supply to the engine radiator is not

blocked, e.g. by snow, slush or ice.

X Do not start the engine again until the display message goes out

and the coolant temperature is below 248 ‡ (120 †). Otherwise, the engine could be damaged.

X Pay attention to the coolant temperature display. X If the temperature increases again, visit a qualified specialist

workshop immediately.

Under normal operating conditions and with the specified coolant level, the coolant temperature may rise to 248 ‡ (120 †). The poly-V-belt may have torn. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely and switch off the engine,

paying attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Check the poly-V-belt. If the poly-V-belt is torn: ! Do not continue driving. The engine could otherwise overheat. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. If the poly-V-belt is not damaged: X Wait until the display message disappears before restarting the

engine. Otherwise, the engine could be damaged. X Pay attention to the coolant temperature display. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

236 Display messages

Display messages # The battery is not being charged.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

A warning tone also sounds. Possible causes are: Ra defective alternator Ra torn poly-V-belt Ra malfunction in the electronics X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely and switch off the engine,

paying attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Open the hood. X Check whether the poly-V-belt is torn. If the poly-V-belt is torn: ! Do not continue driving. The engine could otherwise overheat. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. If the poly-V-belt is not damaged: X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

Check Engine Oil At Next Refueling

The engine oil level has dropped to the minimum level. A warning tone also sounds. X Check the oil level when next refueling, at the latest

(Y page 289).

X If necessary, add engine oil (Y page 291). X Have the engine checked at a qualified specialist workshop if

engine oil needs to be added more often than usual.

! Avoid long journeys with too little engine oil. The engine will

otherwise be damaged.

Information on approved engine oils can be obtained from any qualified specialist workshop or on the Internet at http:// www.mbusa.com (USA only).

Engine Oil Level Low Stop Vehicle Turn Engine Off

The engine oil level is too low. There is a risk of engine damage. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely and switch off the engine,

paying attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Add engine oil (Y page 291) and check the oil level

(Y page 289).

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Display messages Check Engine Oil Level (Add 1 quart)

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions AMG vehicles: the engine oil level is too low. X Check the oil level when next refueling, at the latest

(Y page 289).

X If necessary, add engine oil (Y page 291). X Have the engine checked at a qualified specialist workshop if

engine oil needs to be added more often than usual.

! Avoid long journeys with too little engine oil. The engine will

otherwise be damaged.

Information on approved engine oils can be obtained from any qualified specialist workshop or on the Internet at http:// www.mbusa.com (USA only). The measuring system is malfunctioning. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

Engine Oil Level Cannot Be Measured Fuel Level Low C There is only a very small amount of fuel in the fuel tank.

The fuel level has dropped into the reserve range. X Refuel at the nearest gas station.

Gas Cap Loose

X Refuel at the nearest gas station without fail. The fuel system pressure is too low. The fuel filler cap is not closed correctly or the fuel system is leaking. X Check that the fuel filler cap is correctly closed. If the fuel filler cap is not correctly closed: X Close the fuel filler cap. If the fuel filler cap is correctly closed: X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

238 Display messages

Driving systems Display messages TC Shift Conditions Not Fulfilled Apply Brake/ Parking Brake

TC Malfunction Visit WorkshopTo park, apply the parking brake

TC Shift Canceled Please Reactivate

TC Shift Condition Not Fulfilled Drive at Max. 25 mph TC Shift Condition Not Fulfilled Shift to NEUTRAL TC shift condition not fulfilled Drive at Max. 40 mph LOW RANGE On HIGH RANGE On

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The parking brake has not been applied and the brake pedal has not been depressed. The transfer case has canceled the gear change process and is in Neutral. There is no connection between the engine and the drive wheels. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Depress the brake pedal and apply the parking brake. X Shift the automatic transmission to neutral position N. X Make sure all conditions for changing gears are met

(Y page 199).

X Repeat the gearshift process. There is a malfunction in the transfer case. X Do not shift the transfer case. X When parking, secure the vehicle against rolling away

(Y page 156).

X Have the vehicle checked at a qualified specialist workshop. The transfer case has not performed the gear change process. X Repeat the gearshift process. X Make sure all conditions for changing gears are met

(Y page 199).

You have exceeded the maximum speed for the gearshift process. X Drive more slowly. X Repeat the gearshift process.

You have not met one or more shift conditions. X Shift the automatic transmission to neutral position N. X Repeat the gearshift process. You have exceeded the maximum speed for the gearshift process. X Drive more slowly. X Repeat the gearshift process.

The transfer case is in the LOW RANGE off-road position.

The transfer case is in the HIGH RANGE on-road position.

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239

Display messages Differential Locks Available Only in LOW RANGE

TC-NEUTRAL On

Differential Lock Preselected ESP Not Available

Differential Locks Active ABS and ESP Not Available

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The LOW RANGE button has been pressed. The transfer case is in the LOW RANGE off-road driving position and a differential lock is engaged. X Disengage the differential locks (Y page 201). X Repeat the gearshift process. The transfer case is in the Neutral neutral position. A warning tone will also sound when the driver's door is opened and the brake pedal is not depressed. X Close the driver's door. X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 156). X Shift the transfer case according to driving conditions

(Y page 198).

A differential lock has been engaged. The differential gear has not yet locked the respective differential. The activation indicator lamp (yellow) (Y page 201) of the switch lights up. ESP is unavailable. ABS is still available. A differential lock was engaged and the differential gear has locked the respective differential. The activation indicator lamp (yellow) and function indicator lamp (red) (Y page 201) on the switch light up. ABS and ESP are unavailable.

240 Display messages

Display messages Blind Spot Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manualor Active Blind Spot Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual

Blind Spot Assist Inoperativeor Active Blind Spot Assist Inoperative DISTRONIC PLUS Off DISTRONIC PLUS Now Available

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions Blind Spot Assist or Active Blind Spot Assist is temporarily inoperative. Possible causes are: Ryou have established the electrical connection between the

trailer and your vehicle.

Rthe sensors are dirty. Rfunction is impaired due to heavy rain or snow. Rthe radar sensor system is outside the operating temperature

range.

Rthe radar sensor system is temporarily inoperative, e.g. due to

electromagnetic radiation emitted by nearby TV or radio stations or other sources of electromagnetic radiation.

The yellow 9 indicator lamps also light up in the exterior mirrors. X When towing a trailer, confirm the display message with a. If you are driving without a trailer and the display message does not disappear: X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Apply the parking brake. X Clean the sensors (Y page 297). X Restart the engine. If the system detects that the sensors are fully operational, the display message disappears. Blind Spot Assist or Active Blind Spot Assist is operational again.

Blind Spot Assist or Active Blind Spot Assist is defective. The yellow 9 indicator lamps also light up in the exterior mirrors. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. DISTRONIC PLUS has been deactivated (Y page 177). If it was deactivated automatically, a warning tone also sounds.

DISTRONIC PLUS is operational again after having been temporarily unavailable. You can now reactivate DISTRONIC PLUS (Y page 177).

Display messages DISTRONIC PLUS Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual

DISTRONIC PLUS Inoperative

DISTRONIC PLUS Passive

DISTRONIC PLUS --- mph

DISTRONIC PLUS and SPEEDTRONIC Inoperative

Display messages

241

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions DISTRONIC is deactivated and temporarily inoperative. Possible causes are: Rthe DISTRONIC PLUS cover in the radiator trim is dirty Rfunction is impaired due to heavy rain or snow. Rthe sensors in the bumpers are dirty. Rthe radar sensor system is temporarily inoperative, e.g. due to

electromagnetic radiation emitted by nearby TV or radio stations or other sources of electromagnetic radiation. Rthe system is outside the operating temperature range. Rthe transfer case is in the LOW RANGE transmission position. Rthe vehicle is on an uphill or downhill gradient of greater than

22%-25%.

Rthe on-board voltage is too low. A warning tone also sounds. If the display message does not disappear: X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Apply the parking brake. X Clean the DISTRONIC PLUS cover in the radiator trim and the

bumper (Y page 297).

X Restart the engine. If the system detects that the sensors are fully operational, the display message disappears. DISTRONIC is operational again. DISTRONIC PLUS is defective. BAS (Brake Assist) may also have failed. A warning tone also sounds. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. You have depressed the accelerator pedal. DISTRONIC PLUS is no longer controlling the speed of the vehicle. X Remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. An activation condition for DISTRONIC PLUS is not fulfilled. X Check the activation conditions for DISTRONIC PLUS

(Y page 177).

DISTRONIC PLUS and SPEEDTRONIC are faulty. A warning tone also sounds. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

242 Display messages

Display messages Cruise Control and SPEEDTRONIC Inoperative Limit --- mph Cruise Control --- mph

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions Cruise control and SPEEDTRONIC are malfunctioning. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

While depressing the accelerator pedal beyond the pressure point (kickdown), SPEEDTRONIC cannot be activated.

A condition for activating cruise control has not been fulfilled. You have tried to store a speed below 20 mph (30 km/h), for example. X If conditions permit, drive faster than 20 mph (30 km/h) and

store the speed.

X Check the activation conditions for cruise control

(Y page 169).

Tires Display messages Tire pressure will be displayed after driving a few minutes Tire Press. Monitor Inoperative Tire Pressure Monitor Inoperative No Wheel Sensors

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The tire pressure monitor is measuring the tire pressure. X Drive on.

The tire pressures appear in the multifunction display after you have been driving for a few minutes.

The tire pressure monitor is faulty. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

The wheels mounted do not have a suitable tire pressure sensor. The tire pressure monitor is deactivated. X Mount wheels with suitable tire pressure sensors.

The tire pressure monitor is activated automatically after driving for a few minutes.

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243

Display messages Check Tires

Warning Tire Malfunction

Correct Tire Pressure

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped significantly. The wheel position is displayed in the multifunction display. A warning tone also sounds. G WARNING With tire pressures which are too low, there is a risk of the following hazards: Rthey may burst, especially as the load and vehicle speed

increase.

Rthey may wear excessively and/or unevenly, which may greatly

impair tire traction.

Rthe driving characteristics, as well as steering and braking, may

be greatly impaired.

There is a risk of an accident. X Stop the vehicle without making any sudden steering or braking maneuvers. Pay attention to the traffic conditions as you do so.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 156). X If there is a flat tire, inspect the tires (Y page 304). X Check the tire pressure (Y page 325). X If necessary, correct the tire pressure. The tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped suddenly. The wheel position is shown in the multifunction display. G WARNING If you drive with a flat tire, there is a risk of the following hazards: RA flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. RYou could lose control of the vehicle. RContinued driving with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-

up and possibly a fire.

There is a risk of an accident. X Stop the vehicle without making any sudden steering or braking maneuvers. Pay attention to the traffic conditions as you do so.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 156). X If there is a flat tire, inspect the tires (Y page 304). The tire pressure is too low in at least one of the tires, or the tire pressure difference between the wheels is too great. X Check the tire pressures at the next opportunity (Y page 325). X If necessary, correct the tire pressure. X Restart the tire pressure monitor (Y page 327).

244 Display messages

Display messages TirePress. Sensor(s) Missing

Tire Press. Monitor Currently Unavailable

Tire Pressure Warning Tire Failure

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions There is no signal from the tire pressure sensor of one or several wheels. The pressure of the affected tire is not displayed in the multifunction display. X Have the faulty tire pressure sensor replaced at a qualified

specialist workshop.

Due to a source of radio interference, no signals can be received from the wheel sensors. The tire pressure monitor is temporarily malfunctioning. X Drive on.

The tire pressure monitor restarts automatically as soon as the problem has been solved.

The tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped suddenly. A warning tone also sounds. G WARNING If you drive with a flat tire, there is a risk of the following hazards: RA flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. RYou could lose control of the vehicle. RContinued driving with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-

up and possibly a fire. There is a risk of an accident.

X Stop the vehicle without making any sudden steering or braking maneuvers. Pay attention to the traffic conditions as you do so.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 156). X If there is a flat tire, inspect the tires (Y page 304).

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245

Display messages Check Tire Pressure

Correct Tire Pressure

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped significantly. G WARNING With tire pressures which are too low, there is a risk of the following hazards: Rthey may burst, especially as the load and vehicle speed

increase.

Rthey may wear excessively and/or unevenly, which may greatly

impair tire traction.

Rthe driving characteristics, as well as steering and braking, may

be greatly impaired. There is a risk of an accident.

X Stop the vehicle without making any sudden steering or braking maneuvers. Pay attention to the traffic conditions as you do so.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 156). X If there is a flat tire, inspect the tires (Y page 304). X Check the tire pressure (Y page 325). X If necessary, correct the tire pressure. The tire pressure is too low in at least one of the tires, or the tire pressure difference between the wheels is too great. X Check the tire pressures at the next opportunity (Y page 325). X If necessary, correct the tire pressure.

Vehicle Display messages Shift to 'P' or 'N' to Start Engine You have attempted to start the engine with the transmission in

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

position R or D. X Shift the transmission to position P or N.

Auxiliary Battery Malfunction

The auxiliary battery for the automatic transmission is no longer being charged. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop at the next opportunity. X Until then, set the automatic transmission to position P before

you switch off the engine.

X Before leaving the vehicle, apply the parking brake.

246 Display messages

Display messages A The rear door is open.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

G WARNING When the engine is running, exhaust gases can enter the vehicle interior if the rear door is open. There is a risk of poisoning. X Close the rear door.

? The hood is open. G WARNING The open hood may block your view when the vehicle is in motion. There is a risk of an accident. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 156). X Close the hood.

C At least one door is open.

A warning tone also sounds. X Close all the doors.

Power Steering Malfunction See Operator's Manual

The power steering is malfunctioning. A warning tone also sounds. G WARNING You will need to use more force to steer. There is a risk of an accident. X Check whether you are able to apply the extra force required. X If you are able to steer safely: carefully drive on to a qualified

specialist workshop.

X If you are unable to steer safely: do not drive on. Contact the

nearest qualified specialist workshop.

Phone No Service

Your vehicle is outside the network provider's transmitter/ receiver range. X Wait until the mobile phone operational readiness symbol

appears in the multifunction display.

¥ Check Washer Fluid

The washer fluid level in the washer fluid reservoir has dropped below the minimum. X Add washer fluid (Y page 292).

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247

SmartKey Display messages  Key Does Not Belong to Vehicle  Take Your Key from Ignition  Obtain a New Key

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions You have put the wrong SmartKey in the ignition lock. X Use the correct SmartKey.

The SmartKey is in the ignition lock. X Remove the SmartKey.

The SmartKey needs to be replaced. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster Overview of warning and indicator lamps

Low-beam headlamps(Y page 99)

#! Turn signals (Y page 103)

High-beam headlamps (Y page 103) Fog lamps (Y page 101) Rear fog lamp (Y page 101) Seat belts (Y page 248) Brakes (Y page 249)

ü $ (USA) J (Canada) Brakes (yellow)

÷ å ·

(Y page 249) ABS (Y page 250) ESP®(Y page 252) ESP® OFF (Y page 252) SRS (Y page 255) Check Engine (Y page 256) Reserve fuel (Y page 256) Coolant (Y page 256) Distance warning signal (Y page 258) Tire pressure monitor (Y page 259)

248 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Safety Seat belts

Problem

ü After starting the engine, the red seat belt warning lamp lights up for six seconds.

ü After starting the engine, the red seat belt warning lamp lights up. In addition, a warning tone sounds for up to six seconds.

ü The red seat belt warning lamp lights up after the engine starts, as soon as the driver's or the front-passenger door is closed.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The seat belt warning lamp reminds the driver and front passenger to fasten their seat belts. X Fasten your seat belt (Y page 50).

The driver's seat belt is not fastened. X Fasten your seat belt (Y page 50).

The warning tone ceases.

The driver or front passenger has not fastened their seat belt. X Fasten your seat belt (Y page 50).

The warning lamp goes out.

There are objects on the front-passenger seat. X Remove the objects from the front-passenger seat and stow

them in a secure place. The warning lamp goes out.

ü The red seat belt warning lamp flashes and an intermittent audible warning sounds.

The driver or front passenger has not fastened their seat belt. In addition, you are driving faster than 15 mph (25 km/h) or you have briefly driven faster than 15 mph (25 km/h). X Fasten your seat belt (Y page 50).

The warning lamp goes out and the intermittent warning tone ceases.

There are objects on the front-passenger seat. In addition, you are driving faster than 15 mph (25 km/h) or you have briefly driven faster than 15 mph (25 km/h). X Remove the objects from the front-passenger seat and stow

them in a secure place. The warning lamp goes out and the intermittent warning tone ceases.

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249

Safety systems

Problem $ (USA only) J (Canada only) USA only: the red brake system warning lamp is lit while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds. Canada only: the yellow brake system warning lamp is lit while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds.

$ (USA only) J (Canada only) USA only: the red brake system warning lamp is lit while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds. Canada only: the yellow brake system warning lamp is lit while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions G WARNING The brake boosting effect is malfunctioning and the braking characteristics may be affected. There is a risk of an accident. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying attention to road and traffic conditions. Do not continue driving under any circumstances.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 156). X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

There is not enough brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir. G WARNING The braking effect may be impaired. There is a risk of an accident. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying attention to road and traffic conditions. Do not continue driving under any circumstances.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 156). X Do not add brake fluid. Topping up will not remedy the

malfunction.

X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

250 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Problem

The yellow ABS warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) is deactivated due to a malfunction. BAS (Brake Assist), ESP® (Electronic Stability Program), the HOLD function, hill start assist, the adaptive brake lights and ESP® trailer stabilization, for example, are therefore also deactivated. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The wheels could therefore lock if you brake hard, for example. The steerability and braking characteristics may be severely affected. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. If the ABS control unit is faulty, there is also a possibility that other systems, such as the navigation system or the automatic transmission, will not be available.

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251

Problem

The yellow ABS warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions ABS is temporarily unavailable. BAS, ESP®, EBD (electronic brake force distribution), the HOLD function, hill start assist, ESP® trailer stabilization and the adaptive brake lights, for example, are therefore also deactivated. Possible causes are: RSelf-diagnosis is not yet complete. RThe on-board voltage may be insufficient. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The front and rear wheels could therefore lock if you brake hard, for example. The steerability and braking characteristics may be severely affected. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is a risk of an accident. X Carefully drive a suitable distance making slight steering

movements at a speed above 12 mph (20 km/h). The functions mentioned above are available again when the warning lamp goes out.

If the warning lamp is still on: X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

252 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Problem

The yellow ABS warning lamp is lit while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds.

The yellow ABS warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

$ (USA only) J (Canada only) ÷å! The yellow brake warning lamp, the yellow ESP® and ESP® OFF warning lamps and the yellow ABS warning lamp are lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions EBD is malfunctioning. Therefore, ABS, BAS, ESP®, the HOLD function, hill start assist, the adaptive brake lights and ESP® trailer stabilization are also not available, for example. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The front and rear wheels could therefore lock if you brake hard, for example. The steerability and braking characteristics may be severely affected. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. You have engaged the differential locks. ABS is deactivated. X Disengage the differential locks. Subsequently ABS is reactivated.

ABS and ESP® are malfunctioning. Therefore, BAS, EBD, the HOLD function, hill start assist, the adaptive brake lights and ESP® trailer stabilization, for example, are also not available. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The front and rear wheels could therefore lock if you brake hard, for example. The steerability and braking characteristics may be severely affected. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

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253

Problem

÷ The yellow ESP® warning lamp flashes while the vehicle is in motion.

å The yellow ESP® OFF warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

÷å The yellow ESP® and ESP® OFF warning lamps are lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions ESP® or traction control has intervened because there is a risk of skidding or at least one wheel has started to spin. Cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated. X When pulling away, only depress the accelerator pedal as far as

necessary.

X Ease off the accelerator pedal while the vehicle is in motion. X Adapt your driving style to suit the road and weather conditions. X Do not deactivate ESP®.

For exceptions, see: (Y page 62).

ESP® is deactivated. G WARNING If ESP® is switched off, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Reactivate ESP®.

For exceptions, see: (Y page 62).

X Adapt your driving style to suit the road and weather conditions. If ESP® cannot be activated: X Have ESP® checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

ESP®, BAS, the HOLD function, hill start assist, the adaptive brake lights and ESP® trailer stabilization are not available due to a malfunction. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can thus increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

254 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Problem

÷å The yellow ESP® and ESP® OFF warning lamps are lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions ESP®, BAS, the HOLD function, hill start assist and ESP® trailer stabilization are temporarily unavailable. BAS and the adaptive brake lights may also have failed. Self-diagnosis is not yet complete. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can thus increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Carefully drive a suitable distance making slight steering

movements at a speed above 12 mph (20 km/h). The functions mentioned above are available again when the warning lamp goes out.

If the warning lamp is still on: X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

å The yellow ESP® OFF warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

You have engaged the differential locks. ABS, ESP®, 4ETS and BAS have been deactivated. X Disengage the differential locks.

ESP®, 4ETS and BAS are subsequently reactivated.

X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

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255

Problem (Canada only) (USA only) The red parking brake warning lamp comes on while the vehicle is moving. A warning tone also sounds.

The red SRS warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions You are driving with the parking brake applied. X Release the parking brake.

The warning lamp goes out and the warning tone ceases.

There is a malfunction in the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System). G WARNING The air bags or Emergency Tensioning Devices may either be triggered unintentionally or, in the event of an accident, may not be triggered. There is an increased risk of injury. X Drive on carefully. X Have SRS checked at a qualified specialist workshop

immediately.

For further information about SRS, see (Y page 39).

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Engine Problem

The yellow Check Engine warning lamp lights up while the engine is running.

The yellow reserve fuel warning lamp lights up while the engine is running.

The yellow reserve fuel warning lamp flashes while the vehicle is in motion. In addition, the ; Check Engine warning lamp may light up.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions There may be a malfunction, for example: Rin the engine management Rin the fuel injection system Rin the exhaust system Rin the ignition system Rin the fuel system The emission limit values may be exceeded and the engine may be running in emergency mode. X Have the vehicle checked as soon as possible at a qualified

specialist workshop.

i In some states, you must immediately visit a qualified

specialist workshop as soon as the yellow Check Engine warning lamp lights up. This is due to the legal requirements in effect in these states. If in doubt, check whether such legal regulations apply in the state in which you are currently driving.

The fuel level has dropped into the reserve range. X Refuel at the nearest gas station.

The fuel system pressure is too low. The fuel filler cap is not closed correctly or the fuel system is leaking. X Check that the fuel filler cap is correctly closed. X If the fuel filler cap is not correctly closed: close the fuel filler

X If the fuel filler cap is closed: visit a qualified specialist

cap.

workshop.

The red coolant warning lamp lights up while the engine is running and the coolant temperature gauge is at the start of the scale.

The temperature sensor for the coolant temperature gauge is defective. The coolant temperature is no longer being monitored. There is a risk of engine damage if the coolant temperature is too high. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely and switch off the engine, paying attention to road and traffic conditions. Do not continue driving under any circumstances.

X Apply the parking brake. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

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257

Problem

The red coolant warning lamp comes on while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The coolant level is too low. ! Avoid making long journeys with too little coolant in the engine

cooling system. The engine will otherwise be damaged.

If the coolant level is correct, the airflow to the engine radiator may be blocked or the electric engine radiator fan may be malfunctioning. The coolant is too hot and the engine is no longer being cooled sufficiently. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely and switch off the engine,

paying attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Apply the parking brake. X Leave the vehicle and keep a safe distance from the vehicle until

the engine has cooled down.

X Check the coolant level and add coolant, observing the warning

notes (Y page 291).

X If you need to add coolant more often than usual, have the

engine coolant system checked.

The red coolant warning lamp comes on while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds.

X Make sure that the air supply to the engine radiator is not

blocked, e.g. by snow, slush or ice.

X Do not start the engine again until the coolant temperature is below 248 ‡ (120 †). Otherwise, the engine could be damaged.

X Drive to the nearest qualified specialist workshop. X Avoid subjecting the engine to heavy loads, e.g. driving in

mountainous terrain, and stop-start driving.

The coolant temperature has exceeded 248 ‡ (120 †). The airflow to the engine radiator may be blocked or the coolant level may be too low. G WARNING The engine is not being cooled sufficiently and may be damaged. Do not drive when your engine is overheated. This can cause some fluids which may have leaked into the engine compartment to catch fire. Steam from the overheated engine can also cause serious burns which can occur just by opening the hood. There is a risk of injury.

258 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster