2012 Mercedes-benz GL Class Owners Manual

Folding the cargo compartment floor up

X To open the side trim panel: turn rotary knob : 90° in the direction of the arrow and open side trim panel ;.

X Press release handle ; in the direction of

the arrow.

X Lift cargo compartment floor : up by

release handle ;.

Where will I find...?

315

A Fuse allocation chart B Folding wheel chock C Lug wrench

Vehicles with a "Minispare" emergency spare wheel X Lift the trunk floor up (Y page 314).

X Fold out hook = on the underside of the

cargo compartment floor.

X Attach hook = to upper seal ? in the

cargo compartment.

Vehicles with a TIREFIT kit X Lift the cargo compartment floor up

(Y page 314).

: Alignment bolt ; Towing eye = Lug wrench ? Ratchet wrench A Velcro fastener B Jack C Wheel bolts D Folding wheel chock E Fuse allocation chart F Stowage well

"Minispare" emergency spare wheel The "Minispare" emergency spare wheel can be found in the stowage well under the cargo compartment floor. X Lift the cargo compartment floor up

(Y page 314).

X Take out the jack.

: Jack ; Towing eye = Ratchet wrench ? Alignment bolt

316 Flat tire

X Switch on the hazard warning lamps. X Firmly depress the parking brake. X Bring the front wheels into the straight-

ahead position.

X Move the DIRECT SELECT lever to P. X Switch off the engine. X Vehicles without KEYLESS-GO: remove

the SmartKey from the ignition lock.

X Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: open the

driver's door. The on-board electronics have status 0, which is the same as the SmartKey having been removed.

X Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: remove the Start/Stop button from the ignition lock (Y page 149).

X All occupants must get out of the vehicle. Make sure that they are not endangered as they do so.

X Make sure that no one is near the danger

area while a wheel is being changed. Anyone who is not directly assisting in the wheel change should, for example, stand behind the barrier.

X Get out of the vehicle. Pay attention to

traffic conditions when doing so.

X Close the driver's door. i Only operate the tire inflation compressor

using the socket in the footwell of the second row of seats (Y page 286), even if the ignition is turned off. An emergency cut-off ensures that the on- board electrical system voltage does not drop too low. If the on-board electrical system voltage is too low, power to the sockets is automatically cut off. This ensures that there is sufficient power to start the engine.

X Turn emergency spare wheel retainer :

counter-clockwise and remove it.

X Remove insert =. X Remove "Minispare" emergency spare

wheel ;.

For further information on changing a wheel and mounting the spare wheel, see (Y page 316).

Flat tire Preparing the vehicle Your vehicle may be equipped with a "Minispare" emergency spare wheel or MOExtended tires (tires with run-flat properties) (Y page 325). i Vehicle preparation is not necessary on

vehicles with MOExtended tires.

i Vehicles equipped with MOExtended tires are not equipped with a TIREFIT kit at the factory. It is therefore recommended that you additionally equip your vehicle with a TIREFIT kit if you mount tires that do not feature run-flat properties, e.g. winter tires. A TIREFIT kit can be obtained from an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Make sure that highway level is

selected36(Y page 189).

X Stop the vehicle as far away as possible

from traffic on solid, non-slippery and level ground.

36 Vehicles with air suspension.

TIREFIT kit Using the TIREFIT kit You can use the TIREFIT kit to seal small punctures, particularly those in the tire tread. You can use TIREFIT at outside temperatures down to -4 ‡ (-20 †). G WARNING TIREFIT is a limited repair device. TIREFIT cannot be used for cuts or punctures larger than approximately 0.16 in (4 mm) and tire damage caused by driving with extremely low tire inflation pressure, or on a flat tire, or a damaged wheel. Do not drive the vehicle under such circumstances. Contact the nearest authorized Mercedes- Benz Center for assistance or call Roadside Assistance.

X Do not remove any foreign objects which have penetrated the tire, e.g. screws or nails.

X Remove the tire sealant bottle, the

accompanying "max. 80 km/h" sticker and the tire inflation compressor from the stowage well underneath the trunk floor (Y page 314).

Flat tire 317

G WARNING Take care not to allow the contents of TIREFIT to come in contact with hair, eyes or clothing. TIREFIT is harmful if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through the skin - causes skin, eye and respiratory irritation. Any contact with eyes or skin should be flushed immediately with plenty of water. If clothing comes in contact with TIREFIT, change clothing as soon as possible. In case of allergic reaction or rash, consult a physician immediately. G WARNING Keep TIREFIT away from children. If swallowed, rinse mouth immediately with plenty of water and drink plenty of water. Do not induce vomiting. Consult a doctor immediately. Keep away from open flame or heat source.

i If TIREFIT leaks out, allow it to dry. It can

then be removed like a layer of film. If you get TIREFIT on your clothing, have it cleaned as soon as possible with perchloroethylene.

Your vehicle is provided with one of two different tire inflation compressors: RVersion 1: the hose with the pressure gauge and the cable are behind a flap.

RVersion 2: the pressure gauge is in the tire

inflation compressor.

TIREFIT kit version 1

X Affix part : of the sticker within the

driver's field of vision.

X Affix part ; of the sticker near the valve

on the wheel with the defective tire.

318 Flat tire

X Open flap ;. X Pull connector A with the cable and hose

B out of the housing.

X Screw hose B onto flange C of tire

sealant bottle :.

X Insert tire sealant bottle : head

downwards into recess = of the tire inflation compressor.

X Remove the cap from valve E on the faulty

tire.

X Press on/off switch ? on the tire inflation

compressor to I. The tire inflation compressor is switched on. The tire is inflated.

i First, TIREFIT is pumped into the tire. The pressure can briefly rise to approximately 500 kPa (5 bar/73 psi). Do not switch off the tire inflation compressor during this phase.

X Allow the tire inflation compressor to run for five minutes. The tire should then have attained a pressure of at least 180 kPa (1.8 bar/26 psi).

! Do not operate the tire inflation

compressor for longer than eight minutes at a time without a break. It may otherwise overheat. The tire inflation compressor can be operated again once it has cooled down.

If a pressure of 180 kPa (1.8 bar/26 psi) has been achieved after five minutes, see (Y page 320). If a pressure of 180 kPa (1.8 bar/26 psi) has not been achieved after five minutes, see (Y page 319).

TIREFIT kit version 2

X Make sure pressure release screw F on

pressure gauge G is fully closed. X Screw filler hose D onto valve E. X Insert connector A into the socket in the

footwell of the second row of seats (Y page 286).

! None of the other sockets or cigarette

lighters are designed for operating the tire inflation compressor.

X Turn the SmartKey to position

1(Y page 149) in the ignition lock.

X Pull connector ? with the cable and hose

A out of the housing.

X Screw hose A onto flange B of tire

sealant bottle :.

X Insert tire sealant bottle : head

downwards into recess ; of the tire inflation compressor.

X Remove the cap from valve C on the faulty

tire.

X Screw filler hose D onto valve C. X Insert connector ? into the socket in the

footwell of the second row of seats (Y page 286).

! None of the other sockets or cigarette

lighters are designed for operating the tire inflation compressor.

X Turn the SmartKey to position

1 (Y page 149) in the ignition lock.

X Press on/off switch = on the tire inflation

compressor to I. The tire inflation compressor is switched on. The tire is inflated.

i First, TIREFIT is pumped into the tire. The pressure can briefly rise to approximately 500 kPa (5 bar/73 psi). Do not switch off the tire inflation compressor during this phase.

X Allow the tire inflation compressor to run for five minutes. The tire should then have attained a pressure of at least 180 kPa (1.8 bar/26 psi).

Flat tire 319

! Do not operate the tire inflation

compressor for longer than eight minutes at a time without a break. It may otherwise overheat. The tire inflation compressor can be operated again once it has cooled down.

If a pressure of 180 kPa (1.8 bar/26 psi) has been achieved after five minutes, see (Y page 320). If a pressure of 180 kPa (1.8 bar/26 psi) has not been achieved after five minutes, see (Y page 319).

Tire pressure of at least 180 kPa (1.8 bar/26 psi) is not reached If, after five minutes, a pressure of 180 kPa (1.8 bar/26 psi) has not been achieved: X Press the on/off switch on the tire inflation

compressor to 0. The tire inflation compressor is switched off.

X Unscrew the filler hose from the valve of

the faulty tire.

X Very slowly drive forwards or reverse

approximately 30 ft (10 m).

X Pump up the tire again. G WARNING If after five minutes a pressure of 180 kPa (1.8 bar/26 psi) cannot be achieved, the tire is too badly damaged to be repaired reliably using TIREFIT. In this case TIREFIT cannot seal the tire properly. Do not drive any further. Contact the nearest authorized Mercedes- Benz Center for assistance or call Roadside Assistance.

320 Flat tire

Tire pressure of 180 kPa (1.8 bar/ 26 psi) is reached X Press the on/off switch on the tire inflation

compressor to 0. The tire inflation compressor is switched off.

X Unscrew the filler hose from the valve of

the faulty tire.

! After use, excess TIREFIT may run out of

the filler hose. This could cause stains. Therefore, place the filler hose in the plastic bag which contained the TIREFIT kit.

X Stow the tire sealant bottle and the tire

inflation compressor.

X Pull away immediately. G WARNING Do not exceed a vehicle speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). A TIREFIT repair is not designed to operate at higher speeds. The sticker must be attached on the instrument cluster where it will be easily seen by the driver. Vehicle handling characteristics of a TIREFIT repaired tire may change. Adapt your driving accordingly.

B-pillar or the tire pressure table inside the fuel filler flap).

X To increase the tire pressure: switch on

the tire inflation compressor.

TIREFIT kit version 1
X To reduce the tire pressure (version 1):

open pressure release screw F on pressure gauge G.

X Stop after driving for approximately ten minutes and check the tire pressure with the tire inflation compressor. G WARNING If tire inflation pressure has fallen below 130 kPa (1.3 bar/26 psi) do not continue to drive the vehicle. Park your vehicle safely away from the roadway and contact the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or Roadside Assistance. Have the damaged tire replaced.

X Correct the tire pressure if it is at least

130 kPa (1.3 bar/20 psi) (for the required values, see the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver's side

TIREFIT kit version 2
E Pressure release button F Pressure gauge X To reduce the tire pressure (version 2):

press pressure release button E on the filler hose.

X Stow the tire sealant bottle and the tire

inflation compressor.

X Drive to the nearest workshop and have the

tire changed there.

X Have the tire sealant bottle replaced as soon as possible at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center.

H Environmental note Have the used tire sealant bottle disposed of professionally, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Have the tire sealant bottle replaced every

four years at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center.

Changing a wheel and mounting the spare wheel Preparing the vehicle G WARNING The wheel and tire size of the emergency spare wheel/spare wheel may differ to that of the damaged wheel. When using an emergency spare wheel/spare wheel the handling characteristics of the vehicle may change. Adapt your style of driving accordingly. Never operate the vehicle with more than one emergency spare wheel/spare wheel that differs in size. Only use an emergency spare wheel/spare wheel of a differing size briefly and do not switch off ESP®. When using an emergency spare wheel, you must not exceed the maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). G WARNING Have the emergency spare wheel/spare wheel replaced with a new wheel as soon as possible at a qualified specialist workshop which has the necessary specialist knowledge and tools to carry out the work required. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for this purpose. In particular, work relevant to safety or on safety-related systems must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop.

37 Vehicles with an emergency spare wheel.

Flat tire 321

i Vehicles without a spare wheel/

emergency spare wheel are not equipped with a tire-change tool kit at the factory. For more information on which tools are required to perform a wheel change on your vehicle, e.g. wheel chock, lug wrench or alignment bolt, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Prepare the vehicle as described

X If a trailer is coupled to the vehicle,

(Y page 316).

uncouple it.

X Remove the following items (depending on the vehicle's equipment) from the stowage well under the trunk floor: Rthe emergency spare wheel37
Rthe lug wrench Rthe folding wheel chock Rthe jack Rthe ratchet wrench Rthe alignment bolt Rthe wheel bolts for the emergency spare

wheel

X Secure the vehicle to prevent it from rolling

away.

Securing the vehicle to prevent it from rolling away G WARNING Only jack up the vehicle on level ground or on slight inclines/declines. The vehicle could otherwise fall off the jack and injure you or others.

If your vehicle is equipped with a wheel chock, it can be found in the vehicle tool kit (Y page 314). The folding wheel chock is an additional securing measure to prevent the vehicle from rolling away, for example when changing a wheel.

322 Flat tire

X Fold both plates upwards :. X Fold out lower plate ;. X Guide the lugs on the lower plate fully into

the openings in base plate =.

Securing the vehicle on level ground X On level ground: place chocks or other suitable items under the front and rear of the wheel that is diagonally opposite the wheel you wish to change.

Securing the vehicle on slight downhill gradients X On downhill gradients: place chocks or other suitable items in front of the wheels of the front and rear axle.

Raising the vehicle G WARNING When jacking up the vehicle, only use the jack which has been specifically approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle. The jack is designed exclusively for jacking up the vehicle at the jacking points built into both sides of the vehicle. The jack saddle must be placed centrally under the jacking point. The jack must always be vertical when in use, especially on inclines or declines. The jack is intended only for lifting the vehicle briefly for wheel changes. It is not suited for performing maintenance work under the vehicle. To help avoid personal injury, use the jack only to lift the vehicle during a wheel change. Never get beneath the vehicle while it is supported by the jack. Keep hands and feet away from the area under the lifted vehicle. Always lower the vehicle onto sufficient capacity jackstands before working under the vehicle. Always firmly engage the parking brake and block the wheels with wheel chocks or other sizable objects before raising the vehicle with the jack. Do not disengage the parking brake while the vehicle is raised. Make sure that the ground on which the vehicle is standing and where you place the jack is solid, level and not slippery. If necessary, use a large underlay. On slippery surfaces, such as tiled floors, you should use a non-slip underlay, for example a rubber mat. Do not use wooden blocks or similar objects as a jack underlay. Otherwise, the jack may not be able to achieve its load-bearing capacity if it is not at its full height. Never start the engine when the vehicle is raised. Also observe the notes on the jack.

Flat tire 323

X Position jack = at jacking point ;.

X Using lug wrench :, loosen the bolts on the wheel you wish to change by about one full turn. Do not unscrew the bolts completely.

The jacking points for the jack are located behind the wheel housings of the front wheels and in front of the wheel housings of the rear wheels (arrows).

G WARNING The jack is designed exclusively for jacking up the vehicle at the jacking points. The jack saddle must be placed centrally under the jacking point. If you do not position the jack correctly in the jacking point, the vehicle can fall off the jack and seriously or fatally injure you or others.

! The jack is designed exclusively for

jacking up the vehicle at the jacking points. Otherwise, your vehicle could be damaged. X Take ratchet wrench out of the vehicle tool kit and place it on the hexagon nut of the jack so that the letters AUF are visible.

X Make sure that the base of the jack is

positioned directly under the jacking point. X Turn ratchet wrench ? until jack = sits completely on jacking point ; and the base of the jack lies evenly on the ground.

X Turn ratchet wrench ? until the tire is

raised a maximum of 1.2 inches (3 cm) off the ground.

Removing a wheel

324 Flat tire

X Unscrew the uppermost wheel bolt

completely.

X Screw alignment bolt : into the thread

instead of the wheel bolt.

X Unscrew the remaining wheel bolts fully. ! Do not place wheel bolts in sand or on a

dirty surface. The bolt and wheel hub threads could otherwise be damaged when you screw them in. X Remove the wheel.

Mounting a new wheel G WARNING Always replace wheel bolts that are damaged or rusted. Never apply oil or grease to wheel bolts. Damaged wheel hub threads should be repaired immediately. Do not continue to drive under these circumstances! Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call Roadside Assistance. Incorrect wheel bolts or improperly tightened wheel bolts can cause the wheel to come off. This could cause an accident. Make sure to use the correct wheel bolts. G WARNING Only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts. Other wheel bolts may come loose. Do not tighten the wheel bolts when the vehicle is raised. Otherwise, the vehicle could fall off the jack.

1 Wheel bolts for 19", 20" and 21" wheels 2 Wheel bolts for the "Minispare"

emergency spare wheel

! Always use wheel bolts ; to mount the "Minispare" emergency spare wheel. Using other wheel bolts to mount the "Minispare" emergency spare wheel could damage the brake system. G WARNING Make sure to use the original length wheel bolts when remounting the original wheel after it has been repaired.

X Clean the wheel and wheel hub contact

surfaces.

! To prevent damage to the paintwork, hold the wheel securely against the wheel hub while screwing in the first wheel bolt.

X Slide the emergency spare wheel onto the

alignment bolt and push it on.

X Tighten the wheel bolts until they are

finger-tight.

X Unscrew the alignment bolt. X Tighten the last wheel bolt until it is finger-

tight.

Lowering the vehicle X Place the ratchet wrench onto the hexagon

nut of the jack so that the letters AB are visible.

X Turn the ratchet wrench until the vehicle is once again standing firmly on the ground.

X Place the jack to one side.

X Tighten the wheel bolts evenly in a crosswise pattern in the sequence indicated (: to A ). The tightening torque must be 110 lb-ft (150 Nm). G WARNING Have the tightening torque checked immediately after a wheel is changed. The wheels could come loose if they are not tightened to a torque of 110 lb/ft (150 Nm).

X Turn the jack back to its initial position and store it together with the rest of the vehicle tool kit in the cargo compartment.

Vehicles with an emergency spare wheel: X Wrap the defective wheel in the protective

film included with the emergency spare

Flat tire 325

wheel and transport the wheel in the cargo compartment.

or X Depending on the size of the wheel, you may also be able to secure the defective wheel in the emergency spare wheel well. In this case, you must remove the stowage tray from the emergency spare wheel well and store it securely in the cargo compartment.

i When you are driving with the collapsible

spare wheel mounted, the tire pressure loss warning system or the tire pressure monitoring system cannot function reliably. Only restart the tire pressure loss warning system/tire pressure monitoring system when the defective wheel has been replaced with a new wheel. Vehicles with tire pressure monitoring system: all mounted wheels must be equipped with functioning sensors and the defective wheel should no longer be in the vehicle.

MOExtended tires (tires with run-flat properties) MOExtended tires (tires with run-flat properties) allow you to continue driving your vehicle even if one or more tires are entirely deflated. MOExtended tires may only be used in conjunction with the activated tire pressure loss warning system or with the activated tire pressure monitoring system. The maximum permissible distance which can be driven in run-flat mode depends on the load in the vehicle. You can drive 50 miles (80 km) if the vehicle is partially laden and 18 miles (30 km) if it is fully laden. The maximum permissible distance which can be driven in run-flat mode is counted from the moment the tire pressure loss warning appears in the multifunction display.

326 Battery

You must not exceed a maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). G WARNING The handling characteristics of your vehicle deteriorate in run-flat mode, for example: Rwhen cornering Rwhen braking Rwhen accelerating rapidly Adapt your driving style accordingly and avoid sudden changes in direction and sudden acceleration, as well as driving over obstacles (i.e. curbs, potholes), and driving off-road. This is particularly the case when the vehicle is heavily laden. The maximum permissible distance that can be driven in run-flat mode depends to a large extent on the loads placed on the vehicle. It can be shorter due to high speeds, a heavy load, sudden changes in direction, the road surface condition, outside temperature, etc., or further if you drive carefully and conservatively. Do not continue to drive in run-flat mode if: Ryou hear banging noises. Rthe vehicle starts to shake. Ryou see smoke and smell rubber. RESP® is intervening constantly. Rthere are tears in the sidewalls of the tire. After driving in run-flat mode, you must have the wheel(s) checked for damage at a qualified specialist workshop which has the necessary specialist knowledge and tools to carry out the work required. The defective tire must be replaced in every case. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for this purpose. In particular, work relevant to safety or on safety-related systems must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop.

i When replacing one or all tires, make sure

that you only use tires marked MOExtended and of the specified size for the vehicle.

i Vehicles equipped with MOExtended tires are not equipped with a TIREFIT kit at the factory. It is therefore recommended that you additionally equip your vehicle with a TIREFIT kit if you mount tires that do not feature run-flat properties, e.g. winter tires. A TIREFIT kit can be obtained from an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Battery Important safety notes In order for the battery to achieve the maximum possible service life, it must always be sufficiently charged. ! Have the battery checked regularly at a qualified specialist workshop, such as an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Adhere to the service intervals indicated in the service booklet or ask a qualified specialist workshop, such as an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Have the battery charge checked more frequently if you use the vehicle mainly for short trips or if you leave it standing idle for a lengthy period. Only replace a battery with a battery that has been recommended by Mercedes-Benz. Consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center if you wish to leave your vehicle parked for a long period of time. G WARNING Comply with safety precautions and take protective measures when handling batteries.

Risk of explosion

Fire, naked flames and smoking are prohibited when handling the battery. Avoid creating sparks.

Battery acid is caustic. Avoid contact with the skin, eyes or clothing. Wear suitable protective clothing, in particular gloves, an apron and a face mask. Immediately rinse acid splashes off with clean water. Consult a doctor if necessary. Wear eye protection.

Keep children away.

Observe this Operator's Manual.

H Environmental note

Batteries contain dangerous substances. It is against the law to dispose of them with the household rubbish. They must be collected separately and recycled to protect the environment. Dispose of batteries in an environmentally friendly manner. Return discharged batteries to a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, or to a special collection point for old batteries.

G WARNING Failure to follow these instructions can result in severe injury or death. Never lean over batteries while connecting. You might get injured.

Battery

327

Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow this fluid to come in contact with eyes, skin or clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with water and seek medical help if necessary. A battery will also produce hydrogen gas, which is flammable and explosive. Keep flames or sparks away from battery, avoid improper connection of jumper cables, smoking etc. G WARNING Do not place any metal objects on the battery as this could result in a short circuit. Use leak-proof batteries only to avoid the risk of acid burns in the event of an accident. Take care that you do not become statically charged, e.g. by wearing synthetic clothing or rubbing against textiles. For this reason, you also should not pull or push the battery over carpets or other synthetic materials. Never touch the battery first. First, touch the outside body of the vehicle in order to release any possible electrostatic charges. Do not rub the battery with rags or cloths. The battery could explode if touched due to electrostatic charge or due to spark formation.

! Before working on the battery, e.g.

loosening the battery terminals, switch off the engine and remove the SmartKey from the ignition. On vehicles with KEYLESS-GO, make sure that the ignition is switched off. Check that all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster are off. You may otherwise destroy electronic components, such as the alternator.

! Like other batteries, the vehicle battery may discharge over time if you do not use the vehicle. In this case have the battery checked at a qualified specialist workshop, such as an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. You can also charge the battery with a charger recommended by Mercedes-

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further information and availability. Charge the battery in accordance with the separate instructions for the battery charger. G WARNING There is a risk of acid burns during the charging process due to the gases which escape from the battery. Do not lean over the battery during the charging process. G WARNING Battery acid is caustic. Avoid contact with the skin, eyes or clothing.

! Only charge the installed battery with a battery charger which has been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz. These battery chargers allow the battery to be charged while still installed.

! Only use battery chargers with a

maximum charging voltage of 14.8 V.

! Only charge the battery using the jump-

starting connection point.

The jump-starting connection point is in the engine compartment (Y page 329). X Open the hood (Y page 300). X Connect the battery charger to the positive terminal and earth point in the same order as when connecting the donor battery in the jump-starting procedure (Y page 329).

X Read the battery charger's operating

instructions before charging the battery.

328 Battery

Benz. Contact an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center for more information. The battery and the cover of the positive terminal clamp must be installed securely during operation.

i Remove the SmartKey if you park the vehicle and do not require any electrical consumers. The vehicle will then use very little energy, thus conserving battery power.

Mercedes-Benz recommends that you do not carry out work on batteries yourself, e.g. removing or charging. Always have this work performed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. i If the power supply has been interrupted,

e.g. if the battery has been reconnected, you must carry out the following tasks: Rset the clock (Y page 224).

On vehicles with COMAND and a navigation system, the clock is set automatically.

Rreset the sliding sunroof (Y page 94). Rreset the function for automatically

folding the exterior mirrors in/out by folding the mirrors out once (Y page 113).

Rreset the side windows (Y page 92).

Charging the battery G WARNING Never charge a battery still installed in the vehicle unless a battery charger unit approved by Mercedes-Benz is being used. Gases may escape during charging and cause explosions that may result in paint damage, corrosion or personal injury. A battery charger unit specially adapted for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz is available as an accessory. It permits the charging of the battery in its installed position. Contact an

Jump-starting 329

Jump-starting

G WARNING Failure to follow these directions will cause damage to the electronic components, and can lead to a battery explosion and severe injury or death. Never lean over batteries while connecting or jump starting. You might get injured. Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow this fluid to come in contact with eyes, skin or clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with water, and seek medical help if necessary. A battery will also produce hydrogen gas, which is flammable and explosive. Keep flames or sparks away from battery, avoid improper connection of jumper cables, smoking, etc. Attempting to jump start a frozen battery can result in it exploding, causing personal injury. Read all instructions before proceeding.

! Avoid repeated and lengthy starting attempts. Otherwise, non-combusted fuel may

damage the catalytic converter38 and create a risk of fire. Do not use a rapid-charging device to start the engine. Make sure the jumper cables are not damaged. Make sure the jumper cables are not touching any other metal objects when they are connected to the battery.

If your vehicle's battery is discharged, the engine can be jump-started from another vehicle or from a second battery using jumper cables. Observe the following points: X The battery is not accessible in all vehicles. If the other vehicle's battery is not accessible,

jump-start the vehicle using a second battery or a jump-starting device.

X Only jump-start the vehicle when the engine is cold and the catalytic converter system has

cooled down39.

X Do not start the engine if the battery is frozen. Let the battery thaw first. X Jump-starting may only be performed from batteries with a nominal voltage of 12 V. X Only use jumper cables which have a sufficient cross-section and insulated terminal clamps. X Make sure that the jumper cables cannot come into contact with parts, such as the pulley

or the fan. These parts move when the engine is started and while it is running.

X If the battery is fully discharged, leave the battery that is being used to jump-start connected

for a few minutes before attempting to start. This charges the empty battery a little.

i Jumper cables and further information about jump-starting can be obtained from any

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, for example. X Make sure that the two vehicles do not touch. X Apply the parking brake firmly. X Shift the transmission to position P.

38 Only vehicles with a gasoline engine. 39 Only vehicles with a gasoline engine.

330

Jump-starting

X Switch off all electrical consumers (e.g. radio, blower, etc.). X Open the hood (Y page 300).

Position number C identifies the charged battery of the other vehicle or an equivalent jump- starting device. X Lift up cover : of positive terminal ; in the direction of the arrow. X Connect positive terminal ; on your vehicle to positive terminal = of donor battery C

using the jumper cable, beginning with your own battery.

X Start the engine of the donor vehicle and run it at idling speed. X Remove cover A from earth point B. X Connect negative terminal ? of donor battery C to earth point B of your vehicle using

the jumper cable, connecting the jumper cable to donor battery C first.

X Start the engine. X Allow the engine to run for a few minutes before disconnecting the jumper cable. X First, remove the jumper cable from earth point B and negative terminal ?, then from positive terminal ; and positive terminal =, each time disconnecting from the contacts on your own vehicle first.

X Have the battery checked at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center. The jump-starting procedure is not a standard operating state; therefore, have the battery checked.

Towing and tow-starting Important safety notes G WARNING If you tow the vehicle, you must use a rigid towing bar if: Rthe engine is not running. Rthere is a brake system malfunction. Rthere is a malfunction in the power supply

or the vehicle's electrical system.

The power assistance for the steering and the brake force booster do not work when the engine is not running. You will need more force to steer and brake, you may have to depress the brake pedal with maximum force. Before towing away, make sure that the steering can be moved and is not locked. If you tow or tow-start another vehicle, its weight must not exceed the maximum permissible gross vehicle weight of your vehicle.

It is better to have the vehicle transported than to have it towed. ! You may only tow the vehicle a maximum

distance of 30 miles (50 km). A towing speed of 30 mph (50 km/h) must not be exceeded. For towing distances over 30 miles (50 km), the vehicle must loaded onto a transporter.

! Only secure the tow rope or tow bar at the towing eyes. Otherwise, the vehicle could be damaged.

! Do not use the towing eye for recovery,

as this could damage the vehicle. If in doubt, recover the vehicle with a crane.

! When towing, pull away slowly and

smoothly. If the tractive power is too high, the vehicles could be damaged.

! Do not tow with sling-type equipment.

This could damage the vehicle.

Towing and tow-starting 331

! When towing vehicles with KEYLESS-GO,

use the key instead of the Start/Stop button. Otherwise, the automatic transmission may shift to position P when the driver's or front-passenger door are opened, which could lead to damage to the transmission.

! Vehicles with differential locks: make

sure that the differential locks are in automatic mode. When towing, the differential locks must not be switched on by hand. This could otherwise damage the transmission.

! Vehicles with 4MATIC must not be towed with either the front or the rear axle raised, as doing so will damage the transmission.

If the vehicle has suffered transmission damage, have it transported on a transporter or trailer. The automatic transmission must be in position N when the vehicle is being towed. The battery must be connected and charged. Otherwise, you: Rcannot turn the SmartKey to position 2 in

the ignition lock

Rcannot shift the automatic transmission to

position N

i Before the vehicle is towed, switch off the

automatic locking feature (Y page 226). You could otherwise be locked out when pushing or towing the vehicle.

Installing/removing the towing eye Installing the towing eye Vehicles with a trailer tow hitch: if possible secure the towing device on the trailer tow hitch (Y page 210). X Remove the towing eye from the vehicle

tool kit (Y page 314).

332 Towing and tow-starting

G WARNING The exhaust tail pipe may be hot. You could burn yourself if you touch the tail pipe. Be particularly careful when removing the rear cover.

The mountings for the removable towing eyes are located in the bumpers. They are at the front and at the rear, under the covers.

X Press the mark on cover : inwards in the

direction of the arrow.

X Take cover : off the opening. X Screw the towing eye in clockwise to the

stop and tighten it.

Removing the towing eye X Loosen the towing eye and unscrew it. X Attach cover : to the bumper and press

until it engages.

X Place the towing eye in the vehicle tool kit.

Towing a vehicle with both axles on the ground When having your vehicle towed, observe the important safety notes (Y page 331).

G WARNING The power assistance for the steering and the brake force booster do not work when the engine is not running. You will then need much more effort to brake and steer the vehicle. Adapt your style of driving accordingly.

The automatic transmission automatically shifts to position P when you open the driver's or front-passenger door or when you remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock. In order to ensure that the automatic transmission stays in position N when towing the vehicle, you must observe the following points: X Make sure that the vehicle is stationary and

the SmartKey in the ignition lock is in position 0.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock. On vehicles with KEYLESS-GO, use the key instead of the Start/Stop button (Y page 149).

X Depress and hold the brake pedal. X Shift the automatic transmission to

position N.

X Release the brake pedal. X Release the parking brake. X Leave the SmartKey in position 2 in the

ignition lock.

Transporting the vehicle The towing eyes or trailer tow hitch can be used to pull the vehicle onto a trailer or transporter if you wish to transport it. X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock.

X Shift the automatic transmission to

position N.

As soon as the vehicle is loaded: X Prevent the vehicle from rolling away by

applying the parking brake.

X Shift the automatic transmission to

position P.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the ignition lock and remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock.

X Secure the vehicle. ! Only lash the vehicle down by the wheels or wheel rims, not by parts of the vehicle such as axle or steering components. Otherwise, the vehicle could be damaged.

Notes for 4MATIC vehicles ! Vehicles with 4MATIC must not be towed with either the front or the rear axle raised, as doing so will damage the transmission.

If the vehicle has transmission damage or damage to the front or rear axle, have it transported on a transporter or trailer. In the event of damage to the electrical system If the battery is defective, the automatic transmission will be locked in position P. To shift the automatic transmission to position N, you must provide power to the vehicle's electrical system in the same way as when jump-starting (Y page 329). Have the vehicle transported on a transporter or trailer.

Recovering a vehicle that has become stuck ! Pull away smoothly, slowly, and in a

straight line when pulling out a vehicle that has become stuck. Excessive tractive power could damage the vehicles.

If the drive wheels have become stuck in loose or muddy ground, pull the vehicle out with extreme caution, particularly if it is laden.

Fuses

333

Never attempt to recover a stuck vehicle with a trailer attached. Pull out the vehicle backwards, if possible using the tracks it made when it became stuck.

Tow-starting (emergency engine starting) ! Vehicles with automatic transmission

must not be started by tow-starting. This could otherwise damage the transmission.

Fuses Important safety notes The fuses in your vehicle serve to close down faulty circuits. If a fuse blows, all the components on the circuit and their functions stop operating. G WARNING Only use fuses approved by Mercedes-Benz with the specified amperage for the system in question and do not attempt to repair or bridge a blown fuse. Using other than approved fuses or using repaired or bridged fuses may cause an overload leading to a fire, and/or cause damage to electrical components and/or systems. Have the cause determined and remedied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Blown fuses must be replaced with fuses of the same rating, which you can recognize by the color and value. The fuse ratings are listed in the fuse allocation chart. An authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be happy to advise you. i If a fuse has blown, contact a breakdown

service or an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If the newly inserted fuse also blows, have the cause traced and rectified at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

334 Fuses

! Only use fuses that have been approved

for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and which have the correct fuse rating for the system concerned. Otherwise, components or systems could be damaged.

X To open: pull cover : outwards in the

direction of the arrow and remove it.

X To close: clip in cover : at the front of the

dashboard.

X Fold cover : inwards until it engages.

Before changing a fuse X Park the vehicle and apply the parking

brake.

X Switch off all electrical consumers. X Remove the SmartKey from the ignition

lock.

The fuses are located in various fuse boxes: Rfuse box on the front-passenger side of the

dashboard

Rfuse box in the engine compartment on the right-hand side of the vehicle, when viewed in the direction of travel

Rfuse box in the cargo compartment on the right-hand side of the vehicle, when viewed in the direction of travel

The fuse allocation chart is located in the vehicle tool kit (Y page 314) in the stowage compartment under the trunk floor.

Dashboard fuse box ! Do not use a pointed object such as a

screwdriver to open the cover in the dashboard. You could damage the dashboard or the cover.

Fuse box in the engine compartment X Open the hood (Y page 300).

Illustrated: GL 450 (GL 350 BlueTEC, GL 550 are similar) X Remove any existing moisture from the

fuse box using a dry cloth. X To open: open clamps ;. X Fold up cover : and remove it towards the

front of the vehicle.

! Make sure that no moisture can enter the

fuse box when the cover is open.

X To close: check whether the seal is lying

correctly in cover :.

X Insert cover : into the retainer at the rear

of the fuse box.

X Fold down cover : and close clamps ;. ! The cover must be positioned properly.

Moisture or dirt could otherwise impair the operation of the fuses.

X Close the hood (Y page 301).

Fuse box in the cargo compartment X Open the tailgate.

X To open: insert a suitable object, e.g. a

coin, into the slot of release button : on the cover.

X Turn release button : 90° in the direction

of the arrow.

X Open cover ; downwards.

Engine emergency off If the engine cannot be switched off as described, observe the following procedure: X Take the fuse allocation chart out of the

vehicle tool kit (Y page 314).

X Search for fuse 120 in the fuse allocation

chart.

X Open the fuse box in the engine

compartment (Y page 334).

X Remove fuse 120.

Fuses

335

336

Useful information ............................ 338
Important safety notes .................... 338
Operation ........................................... 338
Winter operation ............................... 340
Tire pressure ..................................... 341
Loading the vehicle .......................... 349
Maximum load rating ....................... 353
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards .......................................... 354
Tire labeling ....................................... 355
Definition of terms for tires and loading ............................................... 359
Changing a wheel ............................. 362
Wheel and tire combinations ........... 363

337

338 Operation

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).

Important safety notes

Consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center if you require information on approved and recommended tires and wheels for summer and winter operation. Advice on purchasing and caring for tires is also available there. G WARNING Replace rims or tires with the same designation, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part. For further information contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. If incorrectly sized rims and tires are mounted, the wheel brakes or suspension components can be damaged. Also, the operating clearance of the wheels and the tires may no longer be correct. G WARNING Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is worn to minimum tread depth, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them. When replacing rims, only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the particular rim type. Failure to do so can result in the bolts loosening and possibly an accident. Retreaded tires are not tested or recommended by Mercedes-Benz, since previous damage cannot always be

recognized on retreads. The operating safety of the vehicle cannot be assured when such tires are used. G WARNING If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that possible damage to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on the hazard warning flashers, carefully slow down, and drive with caution to an area which is a safe distance from the road. Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody for possible damage. If the vehicle appears unsafe, have the vehicle towed to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or tire dealer for repairs. G WARNING Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You might 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.

i Further information about Tires and

wheels can be obtained from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Operation Notes on driving RIf the vehicle is heavily laden, check the tire pressures and correct them if necessary. RWhen parking your vehicle, make sure that the tires do not get deformed by the curb or other obstacles. If it is necessary to drive over curbs, speed humps or similar elevations, try to do so slowly and at an obtuse angle. Otherwise, the tires, particularly the sidewalls, can get damaged.

Notes on regularly inspecting wheels and tires G WARNING Regularly check the tires for damage. Damaged tires can cause tire inflation pressure loss. As a result, you could lose control of your vehicle. Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is worn to minimum tread depth, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

RRegularly check the wheels and tires of

your vehicle for damage (e.g. cuts, punctures, tears, bulges on tires and deformation or cracks or severe corrosion on wheels) at least once a month, as well as after driving off-road or on rough roads. Damaged wheels can cause a loss of tire pressure.

RRegularly check the tire tread depth and

the condition of the tread across the whole width of the tire (Y page 339). If necessary, turn the front wheels to full lock in order to inspect the inner side of the tire surface.

RAll wheels must have a valve cap to protect the valve against dirt and moisture. Do not mount anything onto the valve (such as tire pressure monitoring systems) other than the standard valve cap or other valve caps approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle.

RRegularly check the pressure of all the tires including the emergency spare wheel or the spare wheel, particularly prior to long trips, and correct the pressure as necessary (Y page 341).

Tire tread G WARNING Although the applicable federal motor vehicle safety laws consider a tire to be worn when the tread wear indicators (TWI) become visible at approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), we

Operation 339

recommend that you do not allow your tires to wear down to that level. As tread depth approaches 1/8 in (3 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.

Do not use tires that are excessively worn as the tire traction on wet road surfaces decreases significantly when the tread depth is less than 1/8 inch (3 mm). Tread wear indicators (TWI) are required by law. Six indicators are positioned over the tire tread. They are visible as soon as a tread depth of approx. 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) is reached. If this is the case, the tire is so worn that it must be replaced. The recommended tread depth for summer tires is at least 1/8 inch (3 mm). The recommended tread depth for winter tires is at least 1/6 inch (4 mm).

Bar marking : for tread wear is integrated into the tire tread.

Notes on selecting, mounting and replacing tires ROnly mount tires and wheels of the same

type and make.

ROnly mount tires of the correct size onto

the wheels.

RAfter mounting new tires, run them in at

moderate speeds for the first 60 miles

340 Winter operation

(100 km) as they only reach their full performance after this distance.

RDo not use tires that are excessively worn

as the tire traction on wet road surfaces decreases significantly when the tread depth is less than 1/8 inch (3 mm).

RReplace the tires after six years at the

latest, regardless of wear. This also applies to the emergency spare wheel/spare wheel.

The service life of tires depends on the following factors amongst other things: Rdriving style Rtire pressure Rmileage

MOExtended tires (tires with run-flat properties) MOExtended tires (tires with run-flat properties) allow you to continue driving your vehicle even if one or more tires are entirely deflated. MOExtended tires may be used only in conjunction with the activated tire pressure loss warning system or the activated tire pressure monitoring system and only on wheels specifically tested by Mercedes-Benz. i Vehicles equipped with MOExtended tires are not equipped with a TIREFIT kit at the factory. It is therefore recommended that you additionally equip your vehicle with a TIREFIT kit if you mount tires that do not feature run-flat properties, e.g. winter tires. A TIREFIT kit can be obtained from an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

You will find notes on driving with a flat tire in the "Breakdown assistance" section (Y page 325).

Winter operation Please bear the following in mind At the onset of winter, have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center. Observe the notes in the "Changing a wheel" section (Y page 362).

Driving with summer tires At temperatures below 45 ‡ (+7 †), the elasticity of summer tires and therefore also traction and braking capability are reduced considerably — equip your vehicle with M+S tires. Using summer tires at very cold temperatures could cause tears to form, thereby damaging the tires permanently. Mercedes-Benz cannot accept responsibility for this type of damage.

M+S tires At temperatures below 45 ‡(+7 †), use winter tires or all-season tires. Both types of tire are identified by the M+S marking. Only winter tires bearing the i snowflake symbol in addition to the M+S marking provide the best possible grip in wintry road conditions. Only these tires will allow driving safety systems such as ABS and ESP® to function optimally in winter, as these tires have been designed specifically for driving on snow. Use M+S tires of the same make and tread on all wheels to maintain safe handling characteristics. G WARNING M+S tires with a tread depth of less than 1/6
inch (4 mm) must be replaced immediately. They are no longer suitable for use in winter.

Always observe the maximum permissible speed specified for the M+S tires you have mounted. Once you have mounted the winter tires: X Check the tire pressures (Y page 345). X Restart the tire pressure monitor

(Y page 347). G WARNING If you use your spare wheel when M+S tires are mounted on the other wheels, be aware that the difference in tire characteristics impairs cornering ability and reduces driving stability. Adapt your driving style accordingly. Have the spare wheel replaced by a normal wheel with an M+S tire at the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center.

Snow chains For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use snow chains which have been specially approved for your vehicle by Mercedes-Benz, or are of a corresponding standard of quality. ! Vehicles with the Adaptive Damping

System (ADS): do not drive in ADS SPORT mode if snow chains have been mounted. The vehicle may otherwise be damaged.