2014 Mercedes-benz GLK Class Owners Manual

If the lanes are narrow, vehicles driving in the lane beyond the lane next to your vehicle may be indicated, especially if the vehicles are not driving in the middle of their lane. This may be the case if there are vehicles driving at the inner edge of their lanes. Due to the nature of the system: Rwarnings may be issued in error when

driving close to crash barriers or similar solid lane borders.

Rthe warning is canceled when driving for an extended period next to long vehicles, such as trucks.

The two radar sensors for Blind Spot Assist are integrated into the sides of the rear bumper. Make sure that the bumper is free of dirt, ice or slush in the vicinity of the sensors. The sensors must not be covered, for example by cycle racks or overhanging loads. Following a severe impact or in the event of damage to the bumpers, have the function of the sensors checked at a qualified specialist workshop. Blind Spot Assist may otherwise not work properly. Indicator and warning display Blind Spot Assist is not active at speeds below approximately 20 mph (30 km/h). Vehicles in the monitoring range are then not indicated.

Blind Spot Assist monitors the area up to 10 ft (3 m) behind your vehicle and directly next to your vehicle, as shown in the diagram.

: Yellow indicator lamp/red warning lamp When Blind Spot Assist is activated, indicator lamp : in the exterior mirrors lights up yellow at speeds of up to 20 mph (30 km/h). At speeds above 20 mph (30 km/h), the

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indicator lamp goes out and Blind Spot Assist is operational. If a vehicle is detected within the blind spot monitoring range at speeds above 20 mph (30 km/h), warning lamp : on the corresponding side lights up red. This warning is always emitted when a vehicle enters the blind spot monitoring range from behind or from the side. When you overtake a vehicle, the warning only occurs if the difference in speed is less than 7 mph (12 km/h). The yellow indicator lamp goes out if reverse gear is engaged. In this event, Blind Spot Assist is no longer active. The brightness of the indicator/warning lamps is adjusted automatically according to the ambient light. Collision warning If a vehicle is detected in the monitoring range of Blind Spot Assist and you switch on the corresponding turn signal, a double warning tone sounds. Red warning lamp : flashes. If the turn signal remains on, vehicles detected are indicated by the flashing of red warning lamp :. There are no further warning tones. Switching on Blind Spot Assist X Make sure that Blind Spot Assist

(Y page 229) is activated in the on-board computer.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock. Warning lamps : in the exterior mirrors light up red for approximately 1.5 seconds and then turn yellow.

Towing a trailer When you attach a trailer, make sure you have correctly established the electrical connection. This can be accomplished by checking the trailer lighting. In this event, Blind Spot Assist is deactivated. The indicator lamp lights up yellow in the exterior mirrors and the Blind Spot Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual

message appears in the multifunction display. i You can deactivate the indicator lamps in

the exterior mirrors. To do so, switch off Blind Spot Assist when: Rthe SmartKey is in position 2 in the

ignition lock

Rthe engine is not running Rthe electrical connection to the trailer

has been established

Lane Keeping Assist General notes Lane Keeping Assist monitors the area in front of your vehicle with camera :, which is mounted at the top of the windshield. Lane Keeping Assist detects lane markings on the road and warns you before you leave your lane unintentionally.

: Active Lane Keeping Assist camera If you select km on the on-board computer in the Display Unit Speed-/Odometer function (Y page 230), Lane Keeping Assist is active starting at a speed of 60 km/h. If the miles display unit is selected, the assistance range begins at 40 mph. A warning may be given if a front wheel passes over a lane marking. It will warn you by means of intermittent vibration in the steering wheel for up to 1.5 seconds.

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Important safety notes If you fail to adapt your driving style, Lane Keeping Assist can neither reduce the risk of an accident nor override the laws of physics. Lane Keeping Assist cannot take into account the road, traffic and weather conditions. Lane Keeping Assist is merely an aid. You are responsible for the distance to the vehicle in front, for vehicle speed, for braking in good time and for staying in your lane. G WARNING Lane Keeping Assist may not always clearly recognize lane markings. In this case, Lane Keeping Assist may: Rgive an unnecessary warning Rnot give a warning There is a risk of an accident. Always pay particular attention to the traffic situation and stay in lane, in particular if warned by Lane Keeping Assist. G WARNING The Lane Keeping Assist warning does not return the vehicle to the original lane. There is a risk of an accident. You should always steer, brake or accelerate yourself, in particular if warned by Lane Keeping Assist.

The Lane Keeping Assist does not keep the vehicle in the lane. The system may be impaired or may not function if: Rthere is poor visibility, e.g. due to

insufficient illumination of the road, or due to snow, rain, fog or spray

Rthere is glare, e.g. from oncoming traffic, the sun or reflections (e.g. when the road surface is wet)

Rthe windshield is dirty, fogged up, damaged or covered, for instance by a sticker, in the vicinity of the camera

Rthere are no, several or unclear lane

markings for a lane, e.g. in areas with road construction work

Rthe lane markings are worn away, dark or

covered up, e.g. by dirt or snow

Rthe distance to the vehicle in front is too

small and the lane markings thus cannot be detected

Rthe lane markings change quickly, e.g. lanes branch off, cross one another or merge

Rthe road is narrow and winding Rthere are strong shadows cast on the lane Switching on Lane Keeping Assist X Switch on Active Lane Keeping Assist using the on-board computer; to do so, select Standard or Adaptive(Y page 229). If you drive at speeds above 40 mph (60 km/h) and lane markings are detected, the lines in the assistance graphics display (Y page 228) are shown in green. Lane Keeping Assist is ready for use.

Standard If Standard is selected, no warning vibration occurs if: Ryou switch on the turn signals. In this event, the warnings are suppressed for a certain period of time.

Ra driving safety system intervenes, such as

ABS, BAS or ESP®. Adaptive When Adaptive is selected, no warning vibration occurs if: Ryou switch on the turn signals. In this event, the warnings are suppressed for a certain period of time.

Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g.

ABS, BAS or ESP®.

Ryou accelerate hard, e.g. kickdown. Ryou brake hard.

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Ryou steer actively, e.g. swerve to avoid an

obstacle or change lanes quickly.

Ryou cut the corner on a sharp bend. In order that you are warned only when necessary and in good time if you cross the lane marking, the system recognizes certain conditions and warns you accordingly. The warning vibration occurs earlier if: Ryou approach the outer lane marking on a

bend.

Rthe road has very wide lanes, e.g. a

highway.

Rthe system recognizes solid lane markings. The warning vibration occurs later if: Rthe road has narrow lanes. Ryou cut the corner on a bend. Towing a trailer When you attach a trailer, make sure you have correctly established the electrical connection. This can be accomplished by checking the trailer lighting.

Active Driving Assistance package General notes The Active Driving Assistance package consists of DISTRONIC PLUS (Y page 175), Active Blind Spot Assist (Y page 206) and Active Lane Keeping Assist (Y page 209).

Active Blind Spot Assist General notes Active Blind Spot Assist uses a radar sensor system to monitor the side areas of your vehicle which are behind the driver. A warning display in the exterior mirrors draws your attention to vehicles detected in the monitored area. If you then switch on the corresponding turn signal to change lane, you will also receive an optical and audible warning. If a risk of lateral collision is detected, corrective braking may help you avoid a collision. To support the course-

correcting brake application, Active Blind Spot Assist uses the forward-facing radar sensor system. The free space is then evaluated in the direction of travel and to the side before a course-correcting brake application is initiated. Active Blind Spot Assist supports you from a speed of approximately 20 mph (30 km/h). For Active Blind Spot Assist to assist you when driving, the radar sensor system must be operational. Important safety notes Active Blind Spot Assist is only an aid. It does not detect all traffic situations and road users and is no substitute for attentive driving. Always ensure that there is sufficient distance to the side for other road users and obstacles. G WARNING Active Blind Spot Assist does not react to: Rvehicles overtaken too closely on the side,

placing them in the blind spot area

Rvehicles which approach with a large speed

differential and overtake your vehicle As a result, Active Blind Spot Assist may neither give warnings nor intervene in such situations. There is a risk of an accident. Always observe the traffic conditions carefully, and maintain a safe lateral distance.

i USA only:

This device has been approved by the FCC as a "Vehicular Radar System". The radar sensor is intended for use in an automotive radar system only. Removing, tampering with, or altering the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted by the FCC. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

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i Canada only: This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Removal, tampering, or altering of the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Monitoring range of the sensors G WARNING Active Blind Spot Assist does not detect all traffic situations and road users. There is a risk of an accident. Always make sure that there is sufficient distance on the side for other traffic or obstacles.

In particular, the detection of obstacles can be impaired if: Rdirt on the sensors or anything else

covering the sensors

Rpoor visibility, e.g. due to rain, snow or

spray

Vehicles in the monitoring range are then not indicated. Active Blind Spot Assist may not detect narrow vehicles, such as motorcycles or bicycles, or may only detect them too late.

Active Blind Spot Assist monitors the area up to 10 ft (3 m) behind your vehicle and directly next to your vehicle, as shown in the diagram. For this purpose, Active Blind Spot Assist uses radar sensors in the rear bumper. If the lanes are narrow, vehicles driving in the lane beyond the lane next to your vehicle may be indicated, especially if the vehicles are not driving in the middle of their lane. This may be the case if there are vehicles driving at the inner edge of their lanes. Due to the nature of the system: Rwarnings may be issued in error when

driving close to crash barriers or similar solid lane borders.

Rthe warning is canceled when driving for an extended period next to long vehicles, such as trucks.

Two Active Blind Spot Assist radar sensors are integrated into the front and rear bumpers respectively. An additional radar sensor is located behind the cover in the radiator grill. Make sure that the sensors and areas around them are free of dirt, ice or slush. The rear sensors must not be covered, for example by cycle racks or overhanging cargo. Following a severe impact or in the event of damage to the bumpers, have the function of the sensors checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

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a double warning tone and red warning lamp : flashes. If the turn signal remains on, detected vehicles are indicated by the flashing of red warning lamp :. There are no further warning tones. Course-correcting brake application G WARNING A course-correcting brake application cannot always prevent a collision. There is a risk of an accident. Always steer, brake or accelerate yourself, especially if Active Blind Spot Assist warns you or makes a course-correcting brake application. Always maintain a safe distance at the sides.

In very rare cases, the system may make an inappropriate brake application. An inappropriate brake application may be interrupted at any time if you steer slightly in the opposite direction or accelerate. If Active Blind Spot Assist detects a risk of a lateral collision in the monitoring range, a course-correcting brake application is carried out. This is meant to assist you in avoiding a collision. The course-correcting brake application is available in the speed range between 20 mph (30 km/h) and 120 mph (200 km/h). If a course-correcting brake application occurs, red warning lamp : flashes in the exterior mirror and the following is shown in the multifunction display, for example:

Blind Spot Assist may otherwise not work properly. Indicator and warning display Active Blind Spot Assist is not active at speeds below approximately 20 mph (30 km/h). Vehicles in the monitoring range are then not indicated.

: Yellow indicator lamp/red warning lamp When Active Blind Spot Assist is activated, indicator lamp : in the exterior mirrors lights up yellow at speeds of up to 20 mph (30 km/h). At speeds above 20 mph (30 km/h), the indicator lamp goes out and Active Blind Spot Assist is operational. If a vehicle is detected within the blind spot monitoring range at speeds above 20 mph (30 km/h), warning lamp : on the corresponding side lights up red. This warning is always emitted when a vehicle enters the blind spot monitoring range from behind or from the side. When you overtake a vehicle, the warning only occurs if the difference in speed is less than 7 mph (12 km/h). The yellow indicator lamp goes out if reverse gear is engaged. In this event, Active Blind Spot Assist is no longer active. The brightness of the indicator/warning lamps is adjusted automatically according to the ambient light. Visual and acoustic collision warning When you switch on the turn signals to change lanes and a vehicle is detected in the side monitoring range, you receive a visual and acoustic collision warning. You then hear

Either a very slight course-correcting brake application, or none at all, may occur if: Rthere are vehicles or obstacles, e.g. crash

barriers, located on both sides of your vehicle.

Ra vehicle approaches you too closely at the

side.

Ryou have adopted a sporty driving style with

high cornering speeds.

Ryou clearly brake or accelerate. Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g.

ESP® or PRE-SAFE® Brake.

RESP® is switched off. Rthe off-road program is activated. Ra loss of tire pressure or a defective tire is

detected.

Switching on Active Blind Spot Assist X Make sure that Active Blind Spot Assist (Y page 229) is activated in the on-board computer.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock. Warning lamps : in the exterior mirrors light up red for approximately 1.5 seconds and then turn yellow.

Towing a trailer When you attach a trailer, make sure you have correctly established the electrical connection. This can be accomplished by checking the trailer lighting. Active Blind Spot Assist is then deactivated. The indicator lamp lights up yellow in the exterior mirrors and the Active Blind Spot Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual message appears in the multifunction display.

Active Lane Keeping Assist General notes Active Lane Keeping Assist monitors the area in front of your vehicle by means of a camera : mounted at the top of the windshield. Active Lane Keeping Assist

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detects lane markings on the road and warns you before you leave your lane unintentionally. If you do not react to the warning, a lane-correcting application of the brakes can bring the vehicle back into the original lane.

: Active Lane Keeping Assist camera If you select km on the on-board computer in the Display Unit Speed-/Odometer function (Y page 230), Active Lane Keeping Assist is activated starting at a speed of 60 km/h. If the miles display unit is selected, the assistance range begins at 40 mph. Important safety notes If you fail to adapt your driving style, Active Lane Keeping Assist can neither reduce the risk of accident nor override the laws of physics. Lane Keeping Assist cannot take into account the road, traffic and weather conditions. Lane Keeping Assist is merely an aid. You are responsible for the distance to the vehicle in front, for vehicle speed, for braking in good time and for staying in your lane. Active Lane Keeping Assist cannot continuously keep your vehicle in its lane. G WARNING Active Lane Keeping Assist cannot always clearly detect lane markings.

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In such cases, Active Lane Keeping Assist can: Rgive an unnecessary warning and then

make a course-correcting brake application to the vehicle

Rnot give a warning or intervene There is a risk of an accident. Always pay particular attention to the traffic situation and keep within the lane, especially if Active Lane Keeping Assist alerts you. Terminate the intervention in a non-critical driving situation.

The system may be impaired or may not function if: Rthere is poor visibility, e.g. due to

insufficient illumination of the road, or due to snow, rain, fog or spray

Rthere is glare, e.g. from oncoming traffic, the sun or reflections (e.g. when the road surface is wet)

Rthe windshield is dirty, fogged up, damaged or covered, for instance by a sticker, in the vicinity of the camera

Rthere are no, several or unclear lane

markings for a lane, e.g. in areas with road construction work

Rthe lane markings are worn away, dark or

covered up, e.g. by dirt or snow

Rthe distance to the vehicle in front is too

small and the lane markings thus cannot be detected

Rthe lane markings change quickly, e.g. lanes branch off, cross one another or merge

Rthe road is narrow and winding Rthere are highly variable shade conditions

on the roadway

Rno vehicle is detected in the adjacent lane

and there are broken lane markings

Warning vibration in the steering wheel A warning may be given if a front wheel passes over a lane marking. It will warn you

by means of intermittent vibration in the steering wheel for up to 1.5 seconds. In order that you are warned only when necessary and in good time if you cross the lane marking, the system recognizes certain conditions and warns you accordingly. The warning vibration occurs earlier if: Ryou approach the outer lane marking on a

bend.

Rthe road has very wide lanes, e.g. a

highway.

Rthe system recognizes solid lane markings. The warning vibration occurs later if: Rthe road has narrow lanes. Ryou cut the corner on a bend. Lane-correcting brake application G WARNING A lane-correcting brake application cannot always bring the vehicle back into the original lane. There is a risk of an accident. Always steer, brake or accelerate yourself, especially if Active Lane Keeping Assist warns you or makes a lane-correcting brake application. G WARNING Active Lane Keeping Assist does not detect traffic conditions or road users. In very rare cases, the system may make an inappropriate brake application, e.g. after intentionally driving over a solid lane marking. There is a risk of an accident. An inappropriate brake application may be interrupted at any time if you steer slightly in the opposite direction. Always make sure that there is sufficient distance on the side for other traffic or obstacles.

If you leave your lane, under certain circumstances the vehicle will brake briefly on one side. This is meant to assist you in bringing the vehicle back to the original lane.

This function is available in the range between 40 mph and 120 mph (60 km/h and 200 km/h). A lane-correcting brake application can only be made after driving over a solid, recognizable lane marking. Before this, a warning must be given by means of intermittent vibration in the steering wheel. In addition, a lane with lane markings on both sides must be recognized. The brake application also slightly reduces vehicle speed. If a lane-correcting brake application occurs, the following, for example, appears in the multifunction display:

i A further lane-correcting brake

application can only occur after your vehicle has returned to the original lane. No lane-correcting brake application occurs if: Ryou clearly and actively steer, brake or

accelerate.

Ryou cut the corner on a sharp bend. Ryou switch on the turn signals. Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g. ESP®, PRE-SAFE® Brake or Active Blind Spot Assist.

Ryou have adopted a sporty driving style with

high cornering speeds or high rates of acceleration.

Ron vehicles with a trailer tow hitch, the

electrical connection to the trailer has been correctly established. RESP® is switched off.

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Rthe transmission is not in position D. Rthe off-road program is activated. Ra loss of tire pressure or a defective tire has

been detected and displayed.

Active Lane Keeping Assist does not detect traffic situations or road users. An inappropriate brake application may be interrupted at any time if you: Rsteer slightly in the opposite direction Ruse a turn signal Rclearly brake or accelerate A lane-correcting brake application is interrupted automatically if: Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g. ESP®, PRE-SAFE® Brake or Active Blind Spot Assist.

Rlane markings can no longer be recognized. Switching on Active Lane Keeping Assist X Switch on Active Lane Keeping Assist using the on-board computer; to do so, select Standard or Adaptive(Y page 229). If you drive at speeds above 40 mph (60 km/h) and lane markings are detected, the lines in the assistance graphics display (Y page 228) are shown in green. Lane Keeping Assist is ready for use. If Standard is selected, no warning vibration occurs if: Ryou have switched on the turn signals. In this event, the warnings are suppressed for a certain period of time.

Ra driving safety system intervenes, such as ABS, BAS or ESP®. When Adaptive is selected, no warning vibration occurs if: Ryou have switched on the turn signals. In this event, the warnings are suppressed for a certain period of time.

Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g.

ABS, BAS or ESP®.

Ryou accelerate hard, e.g. kickdown. Ryou brake hard.

212 Towing a trailer

Ryou steer actively, e.g. swerve to avoid

an obstacle or change lanes quickly. Ryou cut the corner on a sharp bend.

Towing a trailer When you attach a trailer, make sure you have correctly established the electrical connection. This can be accomplished by checking the trailer lighting.

Towing a trailer Notes on towing a trailer Important safety notes G WARNING If you rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving, the braking system can overheat. This increases the stopping distance and can even cause the braking system to fail. There is a risk of an accident. Never use the brake pedal as a footrest. Never depress the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal at the same time. G WARNING When the vehicle/trailer combination begins to lurch, you could lose control of it. The vehicle/trailer combination could even rollover. There is a risk of an accident. On no account should you attempt to straighten up the vehicle/trailer combination by increasing the speed. Reduce vehicle speed and do not countersteer. Apply the brake as necessary.

! Depressing the brake pedal constantly

results in excessive and premature wear to the brake pads.

Please observe the manufacturer's operating instructions for the trailer coupling if a detachable trailer coupling is used. Couple and uncouple the trailer carefully. If you do not couple the trailer to the towing

vehicle correctly, the trailer could become detached. Make sure that the following values are not exceeded: Rthe permissible trailer drawbar noseweight Rthe permissible trailer load Rthe permissible rear axle load of the towing

vehicle

Rthe maximum permissible gross vehicle

weight of both the towing vehicle and the trailer

The applicable permissible values, which must not be exceeded, can be found: Rin the vehicle documents Ron the identification plates of the trailer tow

hitch, the trailer and the vehicle

If the values differ, the lowest value applies. You will find the values approved by the manufacturer on the vehicle identification plates and those for the towing vehicle under "Technical data" (Y page 376). When towing a trailer, your vehicle's handling characteristics will be different in comparison with when driving without a trailer. The vehicle/trailer combination: Ris heavier Ris restricted in its acceleration and

gradient-climbing capability

Rhas an increased braking distance Ris affected more by strong crosswinds Rdemands more sensitive steering Rhas a larger turning radius This could impair the handling characteristics. When towing a trailer, always adjust your speed to the current road and weather conditions. Do not exceed the maximum permissible speed for your vehicle/trailer combination.

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213

General notes RDo not exceed the legally prescribed

maximum speed for vehicle/trailer combinations in the relevant country. This lowers the risk of an accident.

ROnly install an approved trailer coupling on

your vehicle. Further information on availability and on installation is available from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

RThe bumpers of your vehicle are not

suitable for installing detachable trailer couplings.

RDo not install hired trailer couplings or

other detachable trailer couplings on the bumpers of your vehicle.

RTo reduce the risk of damage to the ball

coupling, remove it from the ball coupling recess when not in use.

i When towing a trailer, set the tire

pressure on the rear axle of the towing vehicle for a maximum load; see the tire pressure table in the fuel filler flap (Y page 351).

Please note that when towing a trailer, PARKTRONIC (Y page 185) is only available with limitations or not at all. i On vehicles without level control, the

height of the ball coupling will alter according to the load placed on the vehicle. If necessary, use a trailer with a height- adjustable drawbar.

You will find installing dimensions and loads under "Technical data" (Y page 376).

Driving tips i Observe the notes on ESP® trailer

stabilization (Y page 71).

The maximum permissible speed for vehicle/ trailer combinations depends on the type of trailer. Before beginning the journey, check the trailer's documents to see what the maximum permissible speed is. Observe the

legally prescribed maximum speed in the relevant country. For certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the maximum permissible rear axle load is increased when towing a trailer. Refer to the "Technical data" section to find out whether this applies to your vehicle. If you utilize any of the added maximum rear axle load when towing a trailer, the vehicle/ trailer combination may not exceed a maximum speed of 60 mph (100 km/h) for reasons concerning the operating permit. This also applies in countries in which the permissible maximum speed for vehicle/ trailer combinations is above 60 mph (100 km/h). When towing a trailer, your vehicle's handling characteristics will be different in comparison with when driving without a trailer. Use the left-hand paddle shifter to shift into a lower gear in good time on long and steep downhill gradients. i This also applies if you have activated

cruise control.

This will use the braking effect of the engine, so that less braking will be required to maintain the speed. This relieves the load on the brake system and prevents the brakes from overheating and wearing too quickly. If you need additional braking, depress the brake pedal repeatedly rather than continuously.

Driving tips RMaintain a greater distance from the

vehicle in front than when driving without a trailer.

RAvoid braking abruptly. If possible, brake gently at first to allow the trailer to run on. Then, increase the braking force rapidly.

RThe values given for gradient-climbing

capabilities from a standstill refer to sea level. When driving in mountainous areas, note that the power output of the engine and, consequently, the vehicle's gradient-

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climbing capability, decreases with increasing altitude.

If the trailer swings from side to side: X Do not accelerate. X Do not counter-steer. X Brake if necessary.

Installing the ball coupling G WARNING If the ball coupling is not installed and secured correctly the trailer may come loose. There is a risk of an accident. Install and secure the ball coupling as described in the ball coupling installation instructions. Make sure that the ball coupling is installed and secured correctly before every journey.

! Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use ball couplings that have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz. This helps to avoid damage to the vehicle.

Cover cap X Pull protective cap : in the direction of the

arrow, out of ball coupling recess ;.

X Store protective cap : in a safe place. X Observe the manufacturer's installation

instructions. G WARNING If the ball coupling is not installed and secured correctly it can become detached while the

vehicle is in motion and fall onto the road. There is a risk of an accident and injury. Install and secure the ball coupling as described in the ball coupling installation instructions. Make sure that the ball coupling is installed and secured correctly before every journey.

Coupling up a trailer Observe the maximum permissible trailer dimensions (width and length). Most U.S. states and all Canadian provinces require by law: Rsafety chains between the towing vehicle and the trailer. The chains should be cross- wound under the trailer drawbar. They must be fastened to the vehicle's trailer coupling, not to the bumper or the axle. Leave enough play in the chains to make tight cornering possible.

Ra separate brake system for certain types

of trailer.

Ra safety switch for braked trailers. Check the specific legal requirements applicable to your state. If the trailer detaches from the towing vehicle, the safety switch applies the trailer's brakes.

! Do not connect the trailer's brake system (if featured) to the hydraulic brake system of the towing vehicle, as the latter is equipped with an anti-lock brake system. Doing so will result in a loss of function of the brake systems of both the vehicle and the trailer.

i The vehicle's wiring harness features a connection to the brake indicator lamp.

X Make sure that the automatic transmission

is set to position P.

X Apply the vehicle's parking brake. X Close all doors and the tailgate.

X Couple up the trailer. X Establish all electrical connections.

Towing a trailer There are numerous legal requirements concerning the towing of a trailer, e.g. speed restrictions. Make sure that your car/trailer combination complies with the local regulations: Rin your place of residence Rin the location to which you are driving The police and local authorities can provide reliable information. Observe the following when towing a trailer: RTo gain driving experience and to become

accustomed to the new handling characteristics, you should practice the following in a traffic-free location: - cornering - stopping - backing up

RBefore driving, check: the trailer tow hitch the safety switch for braked trailers the safety chains

- electrical connections

the lights the wheels

RAdjust the exterior mirrors to provide an

unobstructed view of the rear section of the trailer.

RIf the trailer has electronically controlled

brakes, pull away carefully. Brake manually using the brake controller and check whether the brakes function correctly.

RSecure any objects on the trailer to prevent the cargo from slipping when the vehicle is in motion.

RWhen you couple up a trailer, check at regular intervals that the load is firmly secured. If the trailer is equipped with

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trailer lights and brakes, check the trailer to ensure that these are working.

RBear in mind that the handling will be less

stable when towing a trailer than when driving without one. Avoid sudden steering movements.

RThe vehicle/trailer combination is heavier, accelerates more slowly, has a decreased gradient climbing capability and a longer braking distance. It is more susceptible to side winds and requires more careful steering.

RIf possible, avoid abrupt braking. Depress the brake pedal moderately at first, so that the trailer can activate its own brakes. Then increase the pressure on the brake pedal. RIf the automatic transmission repeatedly shifts between gears on uphill or downhill gradients, shift to a lower gear using the left-hand steering wheel paddle shifter. A lower gear and lower speed reduce the risk of engine failure.

RWhen driving downhill, shift to a lower gear

to utilize the engine's braking effect. Avoid continuous brake application as this may overheat the vehicle brakes and, if installed, the trailer brakes.

RIf the coolant temperature increases

dramatically while the air-conditioning system is switched on, switch off the air- conditioning system. Coolant heat can additionally be dissipated by opening the windows and by setting the blower fan and the interior temperature to maximum.

RWhen overtaking, pay particular attention

to the extended length of your vehicle/ trailer combination. Due to the length of the vehicle/trailer combination, you require additional road space in relation to the vehicle you are overtaking, before you can change back to the original lane.

216 Towing a trailer

Decoupling a trailer G WARNING If you uncouple a trailer with the overrun brake engaged, you could trap your hand between the vehicle and the trailer drawbar. There is a risk of injury. Do not uncouple a trailer if the overrun brake is engaged.

! Do not disconnect a trailer with an

engaged overrun brake. Otherwise, your vehicle could be damaged by the rebounding of the overrun brake.

X Make sure that the automatic transmission

is set to position P.

X Apply the vehicle's parking brake. X Close all doors and the tailgate. X Apply the trailer's parking brake. X Remove the trailer cable and decouple the

trailer.

Permissible trailer loads and drawbar loads Weight specifications The gross trailer weight is calculated by adding the weight of the trailer to the weight of the load and equipment on the trailer. You will find installing dimensions and loads under "Technical data" (Y page 376).

Loading a trailer RWhen loading the trailer, make sure that

neither the permissible gross weight of the trailer nor the gross vehicle weight is exceeded. The permissible gross vehicle weight is indicated on the identification plate on the B-pillar on the driver's side of the vehicle. You can find the maximum permissible values on the type plates of your vehicle and the trailer. When calculating how much weight the vehicle and trailer may carry,

pay attention to the respective lowest values.

RThe trailer drawbar load on the ball coupling must be added to the rear axle load to avoid exceeding the permissible gross axle weight. The permissible gross vehicle weight is indicated on the identification plate on the B-pillar on the driver's side of the vehicle.

i Mercedes-Benz recommends a trailer

load where the trailer drawbar noseweight accounts for 8% to 15% of the trailer's permissible gross weight.

i The weight of other accessories,

passengers and loads reduces: Rthe permissible trailer load Rthe permissible noseweight that your

vehicle can tow

Checking the vehicle and trailer weight RTo ensure compliance of the weight of the

towing vehicle and the trailer with the maximum permissible values, have the vehicle/trailer combination (towing vehicle including driver, passenger, load and fully laden trailer) weighed on a calibrated weighbridge.

RCheck the gross axle weight rating of the front and rear axles, the gross weight of the trailer and trailer drawbar load.

Removing the ball coupling X Observe the manufacturer's installation

instructions.

X Press the protective cap into the ball

coupling recess.

X Make sure that the protective cap is firmly

in place.

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217

Storing the ball coupling G WARNING Do not carry the ball coupling in the vehicle interior if it is not secured. Otherwise, you and others could be injured by the ball coupling being thrown around if you: Rbrake sharply Rchange direction suddenly Rare involved in an accident

X Observe the manufacturer's installation

instructions.

Trailer power supply The trailer socket of your vehicle is equipped at the factory with a permanent power supply. The permanent power supply is supplied via trailer socket pin 4. ! You can connect accessories with a

maximum power consumption of 240 W to the permanent power supply. You must not charge a trailer battery using the power supply.

The trailer's permanent power supply is switched off in the event of low vehicle supply voltage and after six hours at the latest. A qualified specialist workshop can provide more information about installing the trailer electrics.

218

Useful information ............................ 220
Important safety notes .................... 220
Displays and operation .................... 220
Menus and submenus ...................... 223
Display messages ............................. 235
Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster ............................ 261

219

220 Displays and 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 Read the information on qualified specialist workshops: (Y page 27).

Important safety notes

G WARNING If you operate information systems and communication equipment integrated in the vehicle while driving, you will be distracted from traffic conditions. You could also lose control of the vehicle. There is a risk of an accident. Only operate the equipment when the traffic situation permits. If you are not sure that this is possible, park the vehicle paying attention to traffic conditions and operate the equipment when the vehicle is stationary. G WARNING If the instrument cluster has failed or malfunctioned, you may not recognize function restrictions in systems relevant to safety. The operating safety of your vehicle may be impaired. There is a risk of an accident. Drive on carefully. Have the vehicle checked at a qualified specialist workshop immediately.

You must observe the legal requirements for the country in which you are currently driving when operating the on-board computer. The on-board computer only shows messages or warnings from certain systems in the

multifunction display. You should therefore make sure your vehicle is operating safely at all times. Otherwise, a vehicle that is not operating safely may cause an accident. For an overview, see the instrument panel illustration (Y page 33).

Displays and operation Coolant temperature display G WARNING Opening the hood when the engine is overheated or when there is a fire in the engine compartment could expose you to hot gases or other service products. There is a risk of injury. Let an overheated engine cool down before opening the hood. If there is a fire in the engine compartment, keep the hood closed and contact the fire department.

The coolant temperature gauge is in the instrument cluster on the left-hand side. Under normal operating conditions and with the specified coolant level, the coolant temperature may rise to 248 ‡ (120 †). ! A display message is shown if the coolant

temperature is too high. If the coolant temperature is over 248 ‡(120 †), do not continue driving. The engine will otherwise be damaged.

Tachometer The red band in the tachometer indicates the engine's overrevving range. ! Do not drive in the overrevving range, as

this could damage the engine.

The fuel supply is interrupted to protect the engine when the red band is reached.

Displays and operation 221

Outside temperature display You should pay special attention to road conditions when temperatures are around freezing point. The outside temperature display is in the multifunction display (Y page 222). Changes in the outside temperature are displayed after a short delay.

Speedometer with segments The segments in the speedometer indicate which speed range is available. RCruise control activated (Y page 173): The segments light up from the stored speed to the maximum speed.

RDISTRONIC PLUS activated (Y page 175):

One or two segments in the set speed range light up.

RDISTRONIC PLUS detects a vehicle in front:

The segments between the speed of the vehicle in front and the stored speed light up.

: Multifunction display ; Switches on the Voice Control System; see the separate operating instructions

= Right control panel ? Left control panel A Back button

Left control panel

Operating the on-board computer Overview The on-board computer is activated as soon as you turn the SmartKey to position 1 in the ignition lock. You can control the multifunction display and the settings in the on-board computer using the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel.

RCalls up the menu and menu bar

Press briefly: RScrolls in lists RSelects a submenu or function RIn the Audio menu: selects a stored station, an audio track or a video scene RIn the Tel (telephone) menu: switches to the phone book and selects a name or telephone number

222 Displays and operation

Press and hold: RIn the Audio menu: selects the previous/next station or selects an audio track or a video scene using rapid scrolling RIn the Tel (Telephone) menu: starts rapid scrolling of the phone book if it is open

a RConfirms a selection/display message RIn the Tel (Telephone) menu: switches to the telephone book and starts dialing the selected number RIn the Audio menu: stops the station search function at the desired station

Right control panel

~ RRejects or ends a call

RExits phone book/redial

memory

6 RMakes or accepts a call

RSwitches to the redial memory RAdjusts the volume

8 RMute

Back button

% Press briefly:

RBack RSwitches off the Voice Control

System; see the separate operating instructions RHides display messages/calls up the last Trip menu function used

RExits the telephone book/redial

memory

% Press and hold: RCalls up the standard display in the Trip menu

Multifunction display Values and settings as well as display messages are shown in the multifunction display.

: Text field ; Menu bar = Drive program (Y page 153) ? Transmission position (Y page 153) A Time B Permanent display: outside temperature

or speed (Y page 231)

X To show menu bar;: press the = or ; button on the steering wheel.

Menu bar ; disappears after a few seconds.

Menus and submenus

223

Text field : shows the selected menu or submenu as well as display messages. i You can set the time using the audio system or COMAND, see the separate operating instructions.

Trip menu Standard display

The following messages may appear in the multifunction display:

Shift recommendation (Y page 156)

CRUISE Cruise control (Y page 173) _ Adaptive Highbeam Assist

¤ ECO start/stop function

(Y page 116)

(Y page 148)

ë HOLD function (Y page 183)

Menus and submenus Menu overview Operating the on-board computer (Y page 221). Depending on the equipment installed in the vehicle, you can call up the following menus: RTrip menu (Y page 223) RNavi menu (navigation instructions) (Y page 225) RAudio menu (Y page 226) RTel menu (telephone) (Y page 227) RDriveAssist menu (assistance) (Y page 228) RServ menu (Y page 230) RSett. menu (settings) (Y page 230) The Audio, Navi and Tel menus differ slightly in vehicles with an audio system and in vehicles with COMAND. The examples given in this Operator's Manual apply to vehicles equipped with COMAND.

X Press and hold the % button on the steering wheel until the Trip menu with trip odometer : and odometer ; is shown.

Trip computer "From Start" or "From Reset"

Example: trip computer "From Start" : Distance ; Time = Average speed ? Average fuel consumption X Press the = or ; button on the steering wheel to select the Trip menu. X Press the 9 or : button to select From Start or From Reset. The values in the From Start submenu are calculated from the start of a journey, whereas the values in the From Reset submenu are calculated from the last time the submenu was reset (Y page 224). The From Start trip computer is automatically reset if: Rthe ignition has been switched off for more

than four hours.

R999 hours have been exceeded. R9,999 miles have been exceeded.

224 Menus and submenus The From Reset trip computer is automatically reset if the value exceeds 9,999 hours or 99,999 miles.

Displaying the range and current fuel consumption

X Press the = or ; button on the steering wheel to select the Trip menu. X Press the 9 or : button to select the current fuel consumption and approximate range.

The approximate range that can be covered depends on the fuel level and your current driving style. If there is only a small amount of fuel left in the fuel tank, the display shows a vehicle being refueled C instead of the range.

ECO display

Example: ECO display X Press the = or ; button on the steering wheel to select the Trip menu. X Press the 9 or : button to select ECO DISPLAY. If the ignition remains switched off for longer than four hours, the ECO display will be automatically reset. Further information on the ECO display (Y page 167).

Digital speedometer

: Shift recommendation (Y page 156) ; Digital speedometer X Press the = or ; button on the steering wheel to select the Trip menu. X Press the 9 or : button to select the

digital speedometer.

Resetting values

Example: resetting the trip computer "From Start" X Press the = or ; button on the steering wheel to select the Trip menu. X Press the 9 or : button to select the

function that you wish to reset. X Press the a button. X Press the : button to select Yes and press the a button to confirm.

You can reset the values of the following functions: RTrip odometer R"From Start" trip computer R"From Reset" trip computer RECO display i When you reset the values in the "ECO display", the values in the trip computer "From Start" are likewise reset. When you reset the values in the trip computer "From Start", the values in the "ECO display"are likewise reset.

Menus and submenus

225

Navigation system menu Displaying navigation instructions In the Navi menu, the multifunction display shows navigation instructions. For more information, see the separate operating instructions. X Switch on the audio system with Becker® MAP PILOT or COMAND; see the separate operating instructions. X Press the = or ; button on the steering wheel to select the Navi menu.

Route guidance not active

: Direction of travel ; Current road

Route guidance active No change of direction announced

: Distance to the destination ; Distance to the next change of direction = Current road ? "Follow the road's course" symbol

Change of direction announced without a lane recommendation

: Road into which the change of direction

leads

; Distance to change of direction and visual

distance display

= Change-of-direction symbol When a change of direction is announced, you will see symbol = for the change of direction and distance graphic ;. The distance indicator shortens towards the top of the display as you approach the point of the announced change of direction. Change of direction announced with a lane recommendation

: Road into which the change of direction

leads

; Distance to change of direction and visual

distance display

= New lane during a change of direction ? Uninterrupted lane A Lane recommendation B Change-of-direction symbol On multilane roads, the system can display lane recommendation A for the next change of direction. During the change of direction, additional lanes may be displayed. Lane recommendations are only displayed if the relevant data is available on the digital map.

226 Menus and submenus

Other status indicators of the navigation system RO: you have reached the destination or an intermediate destination. RNew Route... or Calculating Route: calculating a new route ROff Map or Off Mapped Road: the vehicle position is outside the area of the digital map (off-map position). RNo Route: no route could be calculated to the selected destination.

i SIRIUS XM satellite radio functions like a

normal radio. For more information on satellite radio operation, see the separate operating instructions.

i For information on switching waveband

and storing stations; see the separate operating instructions.

Operating an audio player or audio media

Audio menu Selecting a radio station

: Waveband ; Station frequency with memory position i Station ; is displayed with the station frequency or station name. The memory position is only displayed along with station ; if this has been stored.

X Switch on the audio system or COMAND

and select Radio (see the separate operating instructions). X Press the = or ; button on the steering wheel to select the Audio menu. X To select a stored station: briefly press

the 9 or : button.

X To select a station from the station

list: press and briefly hold the 9
or : button.

If no station list is received: X To select a station using the station search: press and briefly hold the 9
or : button.

Example: CD/DVD changer display : Current title Audio data from various audio devices or media can be played, depending on the equipment installed in the vehicle. X Switch on the audio system or COMAND

and select the audio player or medium, see the separate operating instructions. X Press the = or ; button on the steering wheel to select the Audio menu. X To select the next/previous track: briefly press the 9 or : button. X To select a track from the track list

(rapid scrolling): press and hold the 9 or : button until desired track has been reached.

If you press and hold 9 or :, the rapid scrolling speed is increased. Not all audio drives or data carriers support this function. If track information is stored on the audio device or medium, the multifunction display