2012 Mercedes-benz GL Class Owners Manual

wiper arm :.

X Hold wiper arm : and press wiper

blade ; in the direction of the arrow until it releases.

X Remove wiper blade ;.

Installing the wiper blade X Place new wiper blade ; onto wiper

arm :.

X Hold wiper arm : and press wiper

blade ; in the opposite direction to the arrow until it engages.

X Make sure that wiper blade ; is seated

correctly.

X Position wiper blade ; parallel to wiper

arm :.

X Fold wiper arm : back onto the rear

window.

Problems with the windshield wipers The windshield wipers are obstructed Leaves or snow, for example, may be obstructing the windshield wiper movement. The wiper motor has been deactivated. X For safety reasons, you should remove the

SmartKey from the ignition lock.

or X Switch off the engine using the Start/Stop

button and open the driver's door.

X Remove the cause of the obstruction. X Switch the windshield wipers back on.

The windshield wipers are inoperative The windshield wiper drive is malfunctioning. X Select another wiper speed on the

combination switch.

X Have the windshield wipers checked at a

qualified specialist workshop.

Windshield wipers

131

The spray nozzles are misaligned The windshield washer fluid from the spray nozzles no longer hits the center of the windshield. The spray nozzles are misaligned. X Have the spray nozzles adjusted at a

qualified specialist workshop.

132

Useful information ............................ 134
Overview of climate control sys- tems ................................................... 134
Operating the climate control sys- tem ..................................................... 138
Setting the air vents ......................... 145

133

134 Overview of climate control systems

i Ventilate the vehicle for a brief period

during warm weather, e.g. using the convenience opening feature (Y page 91). This will speed up the cooling process and the desired vehicle interior temperature will be reached more quickly.

i The integrated filter can filter out most

particles of dust and completely filters out pollen. A clogged filter reduces the amount of air supplied to the vehicle interior. For this reason, you should always observe the interval for replacing the filter, which is specified in the Service Booklet. As it depends on environmental conditions, e.g. heavy air pollution, the interval may be shorter than stated in the Service Booklet.

Useful information

i This Operator's Manual describes all models and all standard and optional equipment of your vehicle available at the time of publication of the Operator's Manual. Country-specific differences are possible. Please note that your vehicle may not be equipped with all features described. This also applies to safety- related systems and functions.

i Please read the information on qualified

specialist workshops (Y page 24).

Overview of climate control systems Important safety notes G WARNING Severe conditions (e.g. strong air pollution) may require replacement of the filter before its scheduled replacement interval. A clogged filter will reduce the air volume to the interior and the windows could fog up, impairing visibility and endangering you and others. Have a blocked filter replaced at a Mercedes- Benz Center as soon as possible. G WARNING Follow the recommended settings for heating and cooling given on the following pages. Otherwise, the windows could fog up, impairing visibility and endangering you and others.

The automatic climate control13 adjusts the temperature and the humidity of the vehicle interior and filters undesired substances from the air. The automatic climate control13 is only operational when the engine is running.14
Optimum operation is only achieved when you drive with the side windows and the sliding sunroof closed.

13 Canada only. 14 The residual heat function can only be activated/deactivated when the ignition is switched off.

Overview of climate control systems

135

Control panel for dual-zone automatic climate control

: To set the temperature, left (Y page 141) ; To set climate control to automatic (Y page 140) = To defrost the windshield (Y page 142) ? To increase the airflow (Y page 142) A To direct the airflow through the defroster vents (Y page 142) B To activate/deactivate cooling with air dehumidification (Y page 139) C To set the temperature, right (Y page 141) D To switch rear-compartment climate control on/off (Y page 138) E To direct the airflow through the center and side air vents (Y page 142) F To direct the airflow to the footwells and side air vents (Y page 142) G To display the airflow level H To reduce the airflow (Y page 142) I To switch the rear window defroster on/off (Y page 143) J To activate/deactivate air-recirculation mode (Y page 144) K Interior temperature sensor L To switch climate control on/off (Y page 138)

Notes on using dual-zone automatic climate control The following contains notes and recommendations on optimum use of dual- zone automatic climate control. RActivate climate control using the à and

Á buttons. The indicator lamps in the à and Á buttons light up.

RSet the temperature to 72 ‡ (22 †). ROnly use the "defrosting" function briefly

until the windshield is clear again.

ROnly use "air-recirculation" mode briefly, e.g. if there are unpleasant outside odors

or when in a tunnel. The windows could otherwise fog up as, in air-recirculation mode, no fresh air is drawn into the vehicle. RUse the residual heat function if you want

to heat or ventilate the vehicle interior when the ignition is switched off. The "residual heat" function can only be activated or deactivated with the ignition switched off.

136 Overview of climate control systems

Control panel for 3-zone automatic climate control

Canada only

Front control panel

: To set the temperature, left (Y page 141) ; To set climate control to automatic (Y page 140) = To direct the airflow through the defroster vents, left (Y page 142) ? To defrost the windshield (Y page 142) A To increase the airflow (Y page 142) B To switch the rear window defroster on/off (Y page 143) C To direct the airflow through the defroster vents, right (Y page 142) D To operate the rear-compartment climate control via the front control panel

(Y page 138)

E To set the temperature, right (Y page 141) F To switch climate control on/off (Y page 138) G To direct the airflow to the footwells and side air vents, right (Y page 142) H To direct the airflow through the center and side air vents, right (Y page 142) I To activate/deactivate cooling with air dehumidification (Y page 139)

To activate/deactivate the residual heat function (Y page 144)

J Display K To reduce the airflow (Y page 142) L To activate/deactivate air-recirculation mode (Y page 144) M To direct the airflow through the center and side air vents, left (Y page 142) N To direct the airflow to the footwells and side air vents, left (Y page 142) O Interior temperature sensor

Overview of climate control systems

137

P To switch the MONO function on/off (Y page 142)

Rear control panel

Q To increase the airflow (Y page 142) R To set the temperature (Y page 141) S To set the rear-compartment climate control to automatic (Y page 140) T To direct the airflow through the rear air vents (Y page 142) U To direct the airflow through the footwell vents(Y page 142) V To switch rear-compartment climate control on/off (Y page 138) W To reduce the airflow (Y page 142)

USA only

Front control panel

: To set the temperature, left (Y page 141) ; To set climate control to automatic (Y page 140) = To defrost the windshield (Y page 142) ? To increase the airflow (Y page 142) A To direct the airflow through the defroster vents (Y page 142) B To activate/deactivate cooling with air dehumidification (Y page 139)

To activate/deactivate the residual heat function (Y page 144)

C To set the temperature, right (Y page 141) D To switch rear-compartment climate control on/off (Y page 138) E To direct the airflow through the center and side air vents (Y page 142) F To direct the airflow to the footwells and side air vents (Y page 142) G To display the airflow level

138 Operating the climate control system

H To reduce the airflow (Y page 142) I To switch the rear window defroster on/off (Y page 143) J To activate/deactivate air-recirculation mode (Y page 144) K Interior temperature sensor L To switch climate control on/off (Y page 138)

Rear control panel

M To increase the airflow (Y page 142) N To set the temperature (Y page 141) O To set the rear-compartment climate control to automatic (Y page 140) P To direct the airflow through the rear air vents (Y page 142) Q To direct the airflow through the footwell vents (Y page 142) R To switch rear-compartment climate control on/off (Y page 138) S To reduce the airflow (Y page 142)

Operating the climate control system Activating/deactivating climate control Important information G WARNING When the climate control system is deactivated, the outside air supply and circulation are also deactivated. Only choose this setting for a short time. Otherwise the windows could fog up, impairing visibility and endangering you and others.

i Switch on climate control primarily using

the à button (Y page 140).

Notes on using 3-zone automatic climate control The following contains instructions and recommendations to enable you to get the most out of your automatic climate control. RActivate climate control using the à and

Á buttons. The indicator lamps in the à and Á buttons light up.

RSet the temperature to 72 ‡ (22 †). ROnly use the "defrosting" function briefly

until the windshield is clear again.

ROnly use "air-recirculation" mode briefly, e.g. if there are unpleasant outside odors or when in a tunnel. The windows could otherwise fog up as, in air-recirculation mode, no fresh air is drawn into the vehicle.

RUse the MONO function if you want to

adopt the temperature and air distribution settings from the driver's side for all climate zones. The indicator lamp in the º button lights up.

RUse the residual heat function if you want

to heat or ventilate the vehicle interior when the ignition is switched off. The "residual heat" function can only be activated or deactivated with the ignition switched off.

Operating the climate control system 139

Switching the front climate control on/ off using the front control panel X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To switch on: press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button lights up. Airflow and air distribution are set to automatic mode.

or X Press the ^ button.

The indicator lamp in the ^ button goes out. The previously selected settings come into effect again.

X To switch off: press the ^ button.

The indicator lamp in the ^ button lights up.

Switching the rear-compartment climate control on/off using the front control panel 2-zone automatic climate control X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To switch on/off: press the ± button. The indicator lamp in the ± button lights up or goes out.

3-zone automatic climate control USA only: X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To switch on/off: press the ± button. The indicator lamp in the ± button lights up or goes out.

Canada only: X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock. X To switch on: press the Y button. ON and MODE are shown in the automatic climate control display behind the Y symbol. The MODE display goes out after three seconds. The display switches back to the standard display.

X To switch off: press the Y button. MODE is shown in the display behind the Y symbol. X Press button ^. OFF is shown in the display behind the Y symbol.

Switching the rear-compartment climate control on/off using the rear control panel 3-zone automatic climate control X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Switch on automatic climate control using

the front control panel.

X To switch on: press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button lights up.

X To switch off: press the ^ button.

The indicator lamp in the ^ button lights up.

Activating/deactivating cooling with air dehumidification Important information The cooling with air dehumidification function is only available when the engine is running. The air inside the vehicle is cooled and dehumidified according to the temperature selected. G WARNING If you switch off the cooling function, the vehicle will not be cooled when weather conditions are warm. The windows can fog up more quickly. Window fogging may impair visibility and endanger you and others.

Condensation may drip from the underside of the vehicle when it is in cooling mode. This is normal and not a sign that there is a malfunction.

140 Operating the climate control system

i The cooling with air dehumidification function uses refrigerant R134a. This coolant does not contain chlorofluorocarbons, and therefore does not damage the ozone layer.

Activating/deactivating ! If the cooling with air dehumidification does not switch on, it is possible that the climate control system has lost coolant. Have the cooling with air dehumidification checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

X To activate: press the Á button.

The indicator lamp in the Á button lights up.

X To switch off: press the Á button.

The indicator lamp in the Á button goes out. The cooling with air dehumidification function has a delayed switch-off feature.

Problems with the cooling with air dehumidification function If the indicator lamp in the Á button does not go out when the function is activated, the cooling with air dehumidification function is deactivated due to a malfunction. You can no longer switch on the cooling with air dehumidification function. X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

Setting climate control to automatic G WARNING If you switch off the cooling function, the vehicle will not be cooled when weather conditions are warm. The windows can fog up more quickly. Window fogging may impair visibility and endanger you and others.

In automatic mode, the set temperature is maintained automatically at a constant level. The system automatically regulates the temperature of the dispensed air, the airflow and the air distribution.

Automatic mode will achieve optimal operation if cooling with air dehumidification is also activated. If desired, cooling with air dehumidification can be deactivated.

Controlling the front climate control using the front control panel X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Set the desired temperature. X To activate: press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button lights up. Automatic air distribution and airflow are activated.

X To deactivate: press the K or I

button. The indicator lamp in the à button goes out. Automatic airflow is deactivated and the airflow is controlled according to the level set. Automatic air distribution remains activated.

or X Press the Z, M, ¯, \, P,

c or O button. The indicator lamp in the à button goes out. Automatic air distribution is deactivated. Air distribution is controlled according to the position set. Automatic airflow remains activated.

Controlling the rear-compartment climate control automatically using the rear control panel X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Switch on automatic climate control using

the front control panel.

X Set the desired temperature. X To activate: press the à button.

The indicator lamp in the à button lights up. Automatic air distribution and airflow are activated.

Operating the climate control system 141

X To deactivate: press the K or I

button. Automatic airflow is deactivated and the airflow is controlled according to the level set. Automatic air distribution remains activated.

or X Press one of the M or O buttons. Automatic air distribution is deactivated. Air distribution is controlled according to the position set. Automatic airflow remains activated.

Setting the temperature 2-zone automatic climate control Different temperatures can be set for the driver's and front-passenger sides. X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To increase/reduce: turn controls : and

C clockwise or counter-clockwise (Y page 135). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †).

3-zone automatic climate control

X To increase/reduce the front-

compartment temperature using the front control unit: turn the SmartKey in the ignition lock to position 2.

X Turn controls : andC15/E16 clockwise

or counter-clockwise (Y page 136). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †).

USA only: X To increase/reduce the rear-

compartment temperature using the front control unit: turn the SmartKey in the ignition lock to position 2.

X Press the ± button. X Turn control C clockwise or counter-

clockwise (Y page 136). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †).

Canada only: X To increase/reduce the rear-

compartment temperature using the front control unit: turn the SmartKey in the ignition lock to position 2.

X Press the Y button.

The display changes to rear-compartment climate control.

X Turn control E clockwise or counter-

clockwise (Y page 136). Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †). i To return to the standard display, press

the Y button.

Automatic climate control climate zones You can select different temperature settings for the driver's and front-passenger sides as well as for the rear compartment.

15 USA only. 16 Canada only.

i The rear display changes to the standard display automatically after three seconds. X To increase/reduce the temperature in

the rear compartment using the rear control panel: turn the SmartKey in the ignition lock to position 2.

X Turn control N15/R16 clockwise or

counter-clockwise (Y page 136).

142 Operating the climate control system

Setting the airflow X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

X To increase/reduce: press the K or

ignition lock.

I button.

Vehicles with Voice Control System: when the Voice Control System is switched on, the airflow is restricted to 50%. When command input is complete, the airflow is adjusted back to the previous setting.

Activating/deactivating the MONO function The MONO function is only available with automatic climate control.18
You can use the MONO function to adopt the settings configured for temperature, air distribution and airflow on the driver's side for the front-passenger side and the rear compartment. X Press the º button.

The indicator lamp in the º button lights up or goes out.

Defrosting the windshield You can use this function to defrost the windshield or to defrost the inside of the windshield and the side windows. i You should only select the defrosting

function until the windshield is clear again.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To activate: press the ¦ button.

The indicator lamp in the ¦ button lights up.

Only change the temperature setting in small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †).

Setting the air distribution Air distribution settings Automatic climate control: the air distribution can be set individually for the driver's and front-passenger sides.17
Front control unit: Z Directs the airflow through the

defroster vents

M Directs the airflow through the

defroster vents

¯ Directs the airflow through the

defroster vents

c Directs the airflow through the

footwell and side air vents

O Directs the airflow through the

footwell and side air vents

\ Directs the airflow through the center

and side air vents

P Directs the airflow through the center

and side air vents

Rear control panel: M Directs the airflow through the rear-

compartment air vents

O Directs the airflow through the

footwell air vents

Adjusting X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Press the Z, M, ¯, c, O,

\ or P button.

17 Canada only. 18 Canada only.

Operating the climate control system 143

The climate control system switches to the following functions: Rcooling with air dehumidification on Rhigh airflow19
Rhigh temperature19
Rair distribution to the windshield and

front side windows

Rair-recirculation mode off

X To switch off: press the ¦ button.

The indicator lamp in the ¦ button goes out. The previously selected settings come into effect again. The cooling with air dehumidification function remains on. Air- recirculation mode remains deactivated.

or X Press the ^ button. or X Press the à button. or X Turn the temperature control clockwise or

counter-clockwise.

or X Press the K or I button.

Defrosting the windows Windows fogged up on the inside X Activate the cooling with air

dehumidification function Á. X Activate automatic mode Ã. X If the windows continue to fog up, activate

the defrosting function (Y page 142).

i You should only select this setting until

the windshield is clear again.

19 Depending on the outside temperature. 20 Canada only.

Windows fogged up on the outside X Switch on the windshield wipers. X Press the P/\20 or O/c20

air distribution button.

i You should only select this setting until

the windshield is clear again.

Rear window defroster Activating/deactivating G WARNING Any accumulation of snow and ice should be removed from the rear window before driving. Visibility could otherwise be impaired, endangering you and others.

The rear window defroster has a high current draw. You should therefore switch it off as soon as the window is clear as it only switches off automatically after several minutes. If the battery voltage is too low, the rear window defroster may switch off. X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Press the ª button.

The indicator lamp in the ª button lights up or goes out.

Problems with the rear window defroster If the indicator lamp in the ª rear window defroster button flashes, the on-board voltage is too low or the roof is open. The rear window defroster has deactivated itself prematurely or cannot be activated. X Switch off any consumers that are not required, e.g. reading lamps or interior lighting. When the battery is sufficiently charged, the rear window defroster is activated again automatically.

144 Operating the climate control system

Activating/deactivating air- recirculation mode You can deactivate the flow of fresh air if unpleasant odors are entering the vehicle from outside. The air already inside the vehicle will then be recirculated. The operation of air-recirculation mode is the same for all control panels. G WARNING Fogged windows impair visibility, endangering you and others. If the windows begin to fog on the inside, switching off the air recirculation mode immediately should clear interior window fogging. If interior window fogging persists, make sure the air conditioning is activated, or press the ¬ button.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X To activate: press the d button.

The indicator lamp in the d button lights up.

i Air-recirculation mode is activated

automatically at high outside temperatures. When air-recirculation mode is activated automatically, the indicator lamp in the d button is not lit. Outside air is added after about 30
minutes.

X To switch off: press the d button.

The indicator lamp in the d button goes out.

i Air-recirculation mode deactivates

automatically: Rafter approximately five minutes if

outside temperatures are less than about 41 ‡ (5 †)

Rafter approximately five minutes if cooling with air dehumidification is deactivated

Rafter approximately 30 minutes if outside

temperatures are over about 41 ‡ (5 †)

i The air-recirculation mode is not

deactivated automatically at outside temperatures above 79 ‡ (26 †). After approximately 30 minutes, outside air is added.21

Activating/deactivating the residual heat function It is possible to make use of the residual heat of the engine to continue heating the stationary vehicle for up to 30 minutes after the engine has been switched off. The heating time depends on the temperature that has been set. i The blower will run at a low speed

regardless of the airflow setting.

i If you activate the residual heat function at high temperatures, only the ventilation will be activated. The blower runs at medium speed.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the

ignition lock or remove it.

X To activate: press the Á button.

The indicator lamp in the Á button lights up.

X To switch off: press the Á button.

The indicator lamp in the Á button goes out.

21 Vehicles with automatic climate control

i Residual heat is deactivated

automatically: Rafter about 30 minutes Rwhen the ignition is switched on Rif the battery voltage drops Rif the coolant temperature is too low

Setting the air vents Important safety notes G WARNING When operating the climate control, the air that enters the passenger compartment through the air vents can be very hot or very cold (depending on the set temperature). This could cause burns or frostbite to unprotected skin in the immediate area of the air vents. Always keep sufficient distance between unprotected parts of the body and the air vents. If necessary, use the air distribution adjustment to direct the air to air vents in the vehicle interior that are not in the immediate area of unprotected skin.

In order to ensure the direct flow of fresh air through the air vents into the vehicle interior, please observe the following notes: Rkeep the air intake grille on the hood free of blockages, such as ice, snow or leaves Rnever cover the air vents or air intake grille

in the vehicle interior.

i For virtually draft-free ventilation, adjust

the sliders of the air vents to the center position.

Setting the air vents

145

Setting the center air vents

: Center air vent, left ; Center air vent, right = Center vent thumbwheel, right ? Center vent thumbwheel, left X To open/close: turn thumbwheels =

and ? to the right or left.

Setting the side air vents

X To open/close: turn thumbwheel = to the

left or right.

i Side window defroster vent : is never completely shut, even if side air vent ; is shut.

146 Setting the air vents

Setting the rear-compartment air vents Setting the center vents in the rear compartment

Setting the B-pillar air vents

: B-pillar air vent ; B-pillar air vent = Thumbwheel for B-pillar air vent, rear ? Thumbwheel for B-pillar air vent, front X To open/close: turn thumbwheel =

or ? up or down.

: Rear-compartment air vent, left ; Rear-compartment air vent, right = Rear control panel22
When the climate control panel is switched on/off, the air supply through the rear- compartment air vents is also switched on/ off.

Center vents in the rear compartment (3rd row of seats) : Rear-compartment air vent, left ; Rear-compartment air vent, right = Rear-compartment air vent thumbwheel,

right

? Rear-compartment air vent thumbwheel,

left

X To open/close: turn thumbwheel =

or ? up or down.

22 Vehicles with automatic climate control.

Useful information ............................ 148
Breaking-in notes .............................. 148
Driving ............................................... 148
Automatic transmission ................... 154
Refueling ............................................ 159
Parking ............................................... 166
Driving tips ........................................ 168
Driving systems ................................ 179
Off-road driving systems .................. 203
Trailer towing .................................... 210

147

148 Driving

Useful information

i This Operator's Manual describes all models and all standard and optional equipment of your vehicle available at the time of publication of the Operator's Manual. Country-specific differences are possible. Please note that your vehicle may not be equipped with all features described. This also applies to safety- related systems and functions.

i Please read the information on qualified

specialist workshops (Y page 24).

Breaking-in notes The first 1000 miles (1500 km) The more you look after the engine when it is new, the more satisfied you will be with its performance in the future. RDrive at varying vehicle speeds and engine speeds for the first 1000 miles (1500 km) for this reason.

RAvoid overstraining the vehicle during this

period, e.g. driving at full throttle.

RChange gear in good time, at the latest

when the tachometer needle is 2/3 of the way to the red area in the tachometer display.

RDo not manually shift to a lower gear to

brake the vehicle.

RIf possible, do not depress the accelerator

pedal past the point of resistance (kickdown).

ROnly select shift ranges 3, 2 or 1 when

driving slowly, e.g. in mountainous terrain. After 1000 miles (1500 km), you can increase the engine speed gradually and bring the vehicle up to full speed. i You should also observe these notes on running in if the engine or parts of the drive train on your vehicle have been replaced.

i Always observe the respective speed

restrictions.

Driving Important safety notes G WARNING Make sure absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure the pedals still have sufficient clearance. During sudden driving or braking maneuvers the objects could get caught between the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury. G WARNING On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control. G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.

! Warm up the engine quickly. Do not use the engine's full performance until it has reached operating temperature. Only shift the automatic transmission to the desired drive position when the vehicle is stationary.

Driving 149

Where possible, avoid spinning the drive wheels when pulling away on slippery roads. You could otherwise damage the drive train.

SmartKey positions SmartKey

If you depress the brake pedal and press the Start/Stop button, the engine starts immediately. The Start/Stop button can be removed from the ignition lock. Then, you can insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock. i You do not have to remove the Start/Stop

button from the ignition lock when you leave the vehicle. However, you should always take the SmartKey with you when leaving the vehicle. The vehicle can be started with the Start/Stop button and the electrical equipment can be operated while the SmartKey is in the vehicle.

g To remove the SmartKey 1 Power supply for some consumers, such

as the windshield wipers

2 Ignition (power supply for all consumers)

and drive position 3 To start the engine i The SmartKey can be turned in the

ignition lock even if it is not the correct SmartKey for the vehicle. The ignition is not switched on. The engine cannot be started.

KEYLESS-GO General information Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO are equipped with a SmartKey featuring an integrated KEYLESS- GO function and a detachable Start/Stop button. The Start/Stop button must be inserted into the ignition lock and the SmartKey must be in the vehicle. Pressing the Start/Stop button several times in succession corresponds to the different SmartKey positions in the ignition lock. This is only the case if you are not depressing the brake pedal.

: Start/Stop button ; Ignition lock X Insert Start/Stop button : into ignition

lock ;.

i When you insert Start/Stop button :

into ignition lock ;, the system requires a detection time of approximately two seconds before you can use Start/Stop button :.

150 Driving

Start/Stop button = USA only ? Canada only X Position 0: if Start/Stop button : has not yet been pressed, this corresponds to the SmartKey being removed from the ignition.

X Position 1: press Start/Stop button :.

You can now activate the windshield wipers, for example.

i If you then open the driver's door when in

this position, the power supply is deactivated.

X Position 2 (ignition): press Start/Stop

button : twice.

i If you press Start/Stop button : once when in this position and the driver's door is open, the power supply is deactivated again.

As soon as the ignition is switched on, all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster light up. If an indicator lamp does not go out after the engine is started or if it lights up while the vehicle is in motion, see (Y page 259).

Starting the engine Important safety notes G WARNING Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause unconsciousness and possible 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 window fully open at all times.

! Do not depress the accelerator pedal

when starting the engine.

i Vehicles with a gasoline engine: the catalytic converter is preheated for up to 30 seconds after a cold start. During this time, the engine sound may be different.

Automatic transmission X Shift the transmission to position P.

The transmission position display in the multifunction display shows P.

i You can also start the engine when the

transmission is in position N.

Starting procedure with the SmartKey i To start the engine using the SmartKey instead of KEYLESS-GO, pull the Start/ Stop button out of the ignition lock. X To start a gasoline engine: turn the

SmartKey to position 3 in the ignition lock (Y page 149) and release it as soon as the engine is running.

X To start a diesel engine: turn the

SmartKey to position 2 in the ignition lock (Y page 149). The % preglow indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up.

X When the % preglow indicator lamp

goes out, turn the SmartKey to position 3 (Y page 149) and release it as soon as the engine is running.

i You can start the engine without preglow

if the engine is warm.

Using KEYLESS-GO to start the engine G WARNING As long as the SmartKey is in your vehicle, the vehicle can be started. Therefore, never leave children unattended in the vehicle, as they could otherwise accidentally start the engine. When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. A child's unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

i The Start/Stop button can be used to

start the vehicle without inserting the SmartKey into the ignition lock. The Start/ Stop button must be inserted into the ignition lock and the SmartKey must be in the vehicle.

X Depress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

X To start a gasoline engine: press the Start/Stop button (Y page 149) once. The engine starts.

X To start a diesel engine: press the Start/

Stop button (Y page 149) once. Preglow is activated and the engine starts. i If the engine is warm, the preglow time is

shortened.

Pulling away Automatic transmission G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear

Driving 151

when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.

i It is only possible to shift the transmission

from position P to the desired position if you depress the brake pedal. Only then is the parking lock released. If you do not depress the brake pedal, you can move the DIRECT SELECT lever but the parking lock remains engaged.

X Depress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

X Shift the transmission to position D or R. X Release the parking brake (Y page 167). X Release the brake pedal. X Carefully depress the accelerator pedal. ! If a warning tone sounds and the Release Park. Brake message appears in the multifunction display, the parking brake is still applied. Release the parking brake.

i The vehicle locks centrally once you have pulled away. The locking knobs in the doors drop down. You can open the doors from the inside at any time. You can also deactivate the automatic locking feature .

i Upshifts take place at higher engine

speeds after a cold start. This helps the catalytic converter to reach its operating temperature more quickly.

Hill start assist Hill start assist helps you when pulling away forwards or in reverse on an uphill gradient. It holds the vehicle for a short time after you have removed your foot from the brake pedal. This gives you enough time to move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal and depress it before the vehicle begins to roll.

152 Driving

G WARNING Never leave the vehicle when it is held by hill start assist. After approximately one second, hill start assist will no longer brake your vehicle and it could roll away.

X Take your foot off the brake pedal. i Once you have taken your foot off the

brake pedal, the vehicle is held for around one second.

X Pull away. Hill start assist will not function if: Ryou are pulling away on a level road or a

downhill gradient.

Rthe transmission is in position N. Rthe parking brake is applied. RESP® is malfunctioning.

Driving 153

Problems with the engine Problem The engine does not start. The starter motor can be heard.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions RThere is a malfunction in the engine electronics. RThere is a malfunction in the fuel supply. X Before attempting to start the engine again, turn the SmartKey in the ignition back to position 0 or press the Start/Stop button repeatedly until all indicator lamps in the instrument cluster go out.

The engine does not start. You cannot hear the starter motor.

X Try to start the engine again (Y page 150). Avoid excessively

long and frequent attempts to start the engine as these will drain the battery.

If the engine does not start after several attempts: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

The on-board voltage is too low because the battery is too weak or discharged. X Jump-start the vehicle (Y page 329). If the engine does not start despite attempts to jump-start it: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

The starter motor was exposed to a thermal load that was too high. X Allow the starter motor to cool down for approximately two

minutes.

X Try to start the engine again. If the engine still does not start: X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

154 Automatic transmission

Problem Vehicles with a gasoline engine: The engine is not running smoothly and is misfiring.

The coolant temperature gauge shows a value above 248 ‡ (120 †).

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions There is a malfunction in the engine electronics or a mechanical component of the engine management system. X Only depress the accelerator pedal slightly. X Have the cause rectified immediately at a qualified specialist

workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Otherwise, non-combusted fuel may get into the catalytic converter and damage it.

The coolant level is too low. The coolant is too hot and the engine is no longer being cooled sufficiently. X Stop as soon as possible and allow the engine and the coolant

to cool down.

X Check the coolant level (Y page 303). Observe the warning

notes as you do so and add coolant if necessary.

Automatic transmission Important safety notes G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal. G WARNING Keep in mind that turning off the engine alone only will shift the automatic transmission into neutral position N automatically. Always shift the automatic transmission into park position P before turning off the engine. Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

DIRECT SELECT lever Overview of transmission positions The DIRECT SELECT lever is on the right of the steering column.

P Park position with parking lock R Reverse gear N Neutral D Drive i The DIRECT SELECT lever always returns

to its original position. The current transmission position P, R, N or D appears in the transmission position display (Y page 155) in the multifunction display.

Automatic transmission 155

Engaging park position P X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever in the

direction of arrow P.

Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

i The automatic transmission shifts

automatically into park position P if you open the driver's door when the vehicle is stationary or driving at very low speed, and the transmission is in position D or R. ! If the engine speed is too high or the

vehicle is moving, do not shift the automatic transmission directly from D to R, from R to D or directly to P. The automatic transmission could otherwise be damaged.

Engaging reverse gear R ! Only shift the automatic transmission to

R when the vehicle is stationary.

X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up past the

first point of resistance.

Shifting to neutral N X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up or down

to the first point of resistance.

If the engine has been switched off, the automatic transmission automatically switches to N. Remaining in neutral N If the automatic transmission is to remain in neutral N, e.g. for washing the vehicle in car washes with a towing device, please observe the following instructions: G WARNING When leaving the SmartKey in the starter switch, do not leave children unattended in the vehicle. It is possible for children to switch on the ignition which could result in unsupervised use of vehicle equipment.

Using the SmartKey: Rmake sure that the ignition is switched on. Rwhen the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal and keep it depressed.

Rshift to neutral N. Rrelease the brake pedal. Rif applied, release the parking brake. Rswitch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the ignition lock.

Using KEYLESS-GO: Rmake sure that the ignition is switched on. Rwhen the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal and keep it depressed.

Rengage park position P. Rrelease the brake pedal. Rremove the Start/Stop button from the

ignition lock.

Rinsert the SmartKey into the ignition lock. Rswitch on the ignition. Rdepress the brake pedal and keep it

depressed.

Rshift to neutral N. Rrelease the brake pedal. Rif applied, release the parking brake. Rswitch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the ignition lock.

Shifting to transmission position D X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever down past

the first point of resistance.

Transmission position display The current transmission position is shown in the multifunction display.

A Neutral

Do not shift the transmission to N while driving. The transmission could otherwise be damaged. No power is transmitted from the engine to the drive wheels. Releasing the brakes will allow you to move the vehicle freely, e.g. to push it or tow it. If ESP® is deactivated or faulty: only shift the transmission to position N if the vehicle is in danger of skidding, e.g. on icy roads. ! Rolling in neutral N can damage

the drive train.

7 Drive

The automatic transmission changes gear automatically. All forward gears are available.

Changing gear The automatic transmission shifts to the individual gears automatically when it is in transmission position D. This automatic gearshifting behavior is determined by: Ra shift range restriction, if selected Rthe position of the accelerator pedal Rthe road speed

156 Automatic transmission

: Transmission position i The arrows in the transmission position

display show how and into which transmission positions you can change using the DIRECT SELECT lever.

! If the transmission position display in the

multifunction display is not working, you should pull away carefully to check whether the desired transmission position is engaged. Select transmission position D. Do not restrict the shift range.

Transmission positions B Park position

Do not shift the transmission into position P(Y page 166) unless the vehicle is stationary. The parking lock should not be used as a brake when parking. In addition to engaging the parking lock, you must always apply the parking brake to secure the vehicle. If the vehicle electronics are malfunctioning, the transmission may be locked in position P. Have the vehicle electronics checked at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, immediately. C Reverse gear

Only shift the transmission to R when the vehicle is stationary.

Driving tips Kickdown Use kickdown for maximum acceleration. X Vehicles for USA: fully depress the

accelerator pedal. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

X Vehicles for Canada: depress the

accelerator pedal beyond the pressure point. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

Rocking the vehicle free Rocking the vehicle free by shifting back and forth between transmission positions D and R can help to free a vehicle that has become stuck in mud or snow. The engine management system of the vehicle limits shifting back and forth between transmission positions D and R to a maximum speed of 5 mph (9 km/h). To shift back and forth between transmission positions D and R, move the selector lever up and down beyond the pressure point.

Working on the vehicle G WARNING When working on the vehicle, engage the parking brake and shift the automatic transmission into park position P. Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Trailer towing X When towing a trailer and driving downhill,

shift to the lower gear if the automatic transmission constantly shifts between two gears.

X Engaging a lower gear and reducing the

speed reduces the risk of the engine overheating.

Automatic transmission 157

Steering wheel paddle shifters

: Left-hand steering wheel paddle shifter ; Right-hand steering wheel paddle shifter You can restrict or derestrict the shift range by using the steering wheel paddle shifters.

Shift ranges Introduction When the automatic transmission is in position D, it is possible to restrict or derestrict the shift range (Y page 157). The shift range selected is shown in the multifunction display. The automatic transmission shifts only as far as the selected gear. Driving situations = You can use the engine's braking

effect.

5 To use the braking effect of the

engine on downhill gradients and for driving: Ron steep mountain roads Rin mountainous terrain Rin arduous conditions

4 To use the braking effect of the

engine on extremely steep downhill gradients and on long downhill stretches

158 Automatic transmission

Restricting the shift range X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The automatic transmission shifts down one gear and restricts the shift range to the relevant gear.

i If the engine exceeds the maximum engine speed when shifting down, the automatic transmission protects against engine damage by not shifting down.

i If the maximum engine speed for the shift

range is reached and you continue to accelerate, the automatic transmission shifts up in order to prevent the engine from overrevving, even if the shift range is restricted.

Derestricting the shift range X Pull the right-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The shift range is derestricted.

Clearing the shift range restriction X Pull and hold the right-hand steering wheel paddle shifter until D is shown again in the multifunction display. The automatic transmission shifts from the current shift range directly to D.