2001 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

M-class

Operator’s Manual

ML 320
ML 430
ML 55 AMG

Our company and staff congratulate you on the purchase of your new Mercedes-Benz. Your selection of our product is a demonstration of your trust in our company name. Further, it exemplifies your desire to own an automobile that will be as easy as possible to operate and provide years of service. Your Mercedes-Benz represents the efforts of many skilled engineers and craftsmen. To ensure your pleasure of ownership, and for your safety and that of your passengers, we ask you to make a small investment of your time:

• Please read this manual carefully before putting it aside. Then return it to your vehicle where it will be handy for

your reference.

• Please abide by the recommendations contained in this manual. They are designed to acquaint you with the

operation of your Mercedes-Benz.

• Please abide by the warnings and cautions contained in this manual. They are designed to help improve the safety

of the vehicle operator and occupants.

We extend our best wishes for many miles of safe, pleasurable driving. DaimlerChrysler AG

Introduction

Product information .......................... 7
Roadside assistance ......................... 10
Where to find it ................................ 14
Reporting Safety Defects ................ 16

Instruments and controls

Instruments and controls ............... 18
Center console ..............................20
Overhead control panel ............... 21

Operation

Vehicle keys ......................................24
Start lock-out ....................................25
General notes on the

central locking system ...............26
Central locking system ...................26

Radio frequency remote control ..............................26
Unlocking the liftgate ..................28
Panic button ..................................28
Mechanical keys ...........................29

Doors ................................................. 30
Central locking switch .................... 32
Automatic central locking .......... 32

Emergency unlocking in case

of accident ................................... 33
Liftgate .............................................. 34
Antitheft alarm system ................... 35
Tow-away alarm and

glass breakage sensor ............... 36
Seats, front ....................................... 37
Manual seats ................................ 39
Power seats ................................... 40
Head restraint ...............................41
Heated seats ..................................... 44
Seat belts and integrated

restraint system .......................... 46
Seat belts .......................................... 46

Seat belt nonusage warning system ............................ 47

BabySmartTM airbag

deactivation system ................... 53
Self-test BabySmartTM without special child seat installed ................................ 53

Supplemental restraint

system (SRS) ................................54

Emergency tensioning

retractor (ETR) .............................55
Airbags ..............................................56

Safety guidelines for the seat belt, emergency tensioning retractor and airbag .....................................63
Infant and child restraint systems ..........................65
Adjustable steering wheel ..............70
Inside rear view mirror .................. 71
Antiglare night position .............. 71
Exterior rear view mirrors .............73

Exterior rear view mirror, electrically folding .......................75
Instrument cluster ........................... 76
Indicator lamps in the

instrument cluster ......................78
Trip computer ...................................83
Flexible service system (FSS) ........87
Engine oil level indicator ................89
Exterior lamp switch .......................90

Contents

Contents

Fog lamp switch

(except Canada) ...........................92

Fog lamp switch

(Canada only) ..............................93

Hazard warning flasher

switch ............................................94
Headlamp cleaning system ............94
Windshield wiper/washer

switch ............................................95
Rear window wiper/washer ...........96
Climate control .................................98
Basic setting – Heater ...............100
Basic setting – Air conditioner ...........................100
Special setting ............................ 101
Dust filter .................................... 102
Air recirculation .........................102
Rear window defroster .............. 103
Power windows ............................... 104
Rear quarter windows ................... 106
Sliding/pop-up roof .......................107
Skyview Top .................................... 109
Interior lighting ..............................110
Sun visors ........................................113

Illuminated vanity mirrors ........... 113
Interior .............................................114
Storage compartments,

armrest and cup holder ............114
Glove box ...................................... 115
Armrest in rear bench seat ...........117
Ashtrays ........................................... 118
Lighter .............................................. 119
Split rear seat bench ..................... 120
Easy entry/exit feature ............. 123
Rear seat head restraints ......... 124
Third row seats .............................. 126
Removable cargo floor plates ...... 129
Enlarged cargo area .......................131
Cargo tie-down rings .....................132
Hooks ...............................................133
Partition net ....................................133
Loading instructions ......................136
Cargo area cover blind ..................137
Telephone, general .........................139
Cellular telephone ..........................139
Garage door opener ....................... 140

Driving

Control and operation of

radio transmitters .....................146

The first 1 000 miles

(1 500 km) .................................147
Maintenance ...................................147
Tele Aid ........................................... 148
Catalytic converter ........................160
Emission control ............................ 161
Steering lock ...................................162
Starting and turning off

the engine .................................. 164
Automatic transmission ............... 165
Parking brake .................................173
Driving instructions ...................... 174
Drive sensibly – save fuel ......... 174
Drinking and driving ................. 174
Pedals ........................................... 174
Power assistance ........................175
Brakes ..........................................175
Driving off ................................... 176
Parking ........................................ 176
Tires .............................................177

Adjustable steering wheel – indicator lamp .............................222
AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp .............................222
Seat belt warning lamp .............223
Charge indicator lamp ...............223
Low engine oil level warning lamp ..............................224
Low engine coolant level warning ..............................224
Brake pad wear indicator lamp .............................225
FSS indicator ...............................225

Snow chains ................................179
Winter driving instructions ......180
Deep water .................................. 181
Passenger compartment ...........182
Traveling abroad ........................ 182
Off-Road driving ............................. 183
Trailer towing ................................. 190
Cruise control ................................. 196
Brake assist system (BAS) ............ 199
Antilock brake system (ABS) .......201
Four-wheel electronic

traction system (4-ETS+) ..........203

Electronic brake

proportioning (EBP) ..................204

Electronic stability program

(ESP) ...........................................205

Transmission control –

LOW RANGE mode ...................209

What you should know

at the gas station ....................... 212

Check regularly and

before a long trip ....................... 215

Instrument cluster display

Malfunction and indicator

lamps in the instrument cluster .....................218
On-board diagnostic system – Check engine malfunction indicator lamp .............................218
Brake warning lamp ...................219
Supplemental restraint system (SRS) indicator lamp ..................219
Fuel reserve warning ................ 220
Electronic stability program (ESP) / Electronic traction system (ETS) – warning lamp ............................. 221
BAS/ESP malfunction indicator lamp ............................ 221
4-ETS malfunction indicator lamp ............................ 221
LOW RANGE indicator lamp ............................ 221
ABS malfunction indicator lamp ............................ 222

Contents

Contents

Practical hints

First aid kit .....................................228
Fuses ................................................228
Electrical outlet ..............................230
Stowing things in the vehicle ......230
Hood .................................................231
Checking engine oil level .............233
Automatic transmission

fluid level ...................................234
Engine oil consumption ................234
Coolant level ...................................234
Adding coolant ...........................235

Windshield washer/headlamp

cleaning system .........................236
Windshield and headlamp washer fluid mixing ratio ................................237

Vehicle jack, wheel bolt

wrench and screwdriver ......... 237
Air pump ......................................... 239
Wheels ............................................ 240
Tire replacement ....................... 240
Rotating wheels ......................... 241
Spare wheel .................................... 242
Changing wheels ........................... 245
Tire inflation pressure ................. 250
Battery ............................................. 251
Jump starting ................................. 253
Towing the vehicle ........................ 255

Transmission selector lever, manually unlocking .................. 259
Stranded vehicle ............................ 259

Exterior lamps ................................260
Headlamp assembly ...................261
Taillamp assemblies ..................265
Adjusting headlamp aim ...............268
Remote control

battery replacement .................270
Synchronizing remote control ............................271

Emergency operation of

sliding/pop-up roof ...................272

Emergency operation of

Skyview Top ...............................273

Manual release for

fuel filler flap ............................. 274
Replacing wiper blades .................275
Roof rack ......................................... 276

Vehicle care

Cleaning and care

of the vehicle .............................278
Power washer ..............................279
Tar stains .....................................279
Paintwork, painted body components .................................279
Engine cleaning ..........................280
Vehicle washing .........................280
Ornamental moldings ................280
Headlamps, taillamps, turn signal lenses ......................280
Window cleaning ........................281
Wiper blades ...............................281
Light alloy wheels ......................281
Instrument cluster .....................281
Steering wheel and gear selector lever ......................281

Cup holder .................................. 282
Seat belts ..................................... 282
Headliner .................................... 282
Upholstery .................................. 282
Hard plastic trim items ............. 282
Plastic and rubber parts ........... 282

Brake fluid ......................................294
Premium unleaded gasoline ........295
Fuel requirements .........................295
Gasoline additives .........................296
Coolants ...........................................296
Consumer information ..................298

Technical data

Index

Index ................................................300

Spare parts service ....................... 284
Warranty coverage ........................ 284
Identification labels ...................... 285
Layout of poly-V-belt drive ........... 286
Technical data ................................ 287
Fuels, coolants, lubricants

etc. – capacities ........................ 292
Engine oils ...................................... 294
Engine oil additives ...................... 294
Air conditioner refrigerant .......... 294

Contents

Product information

Kindly observe the following in your own best interest: We recommend using Mercedes-Benz original parts as well as conversion parts and accessories explicitly approved by us for your vehicle model. We have tested these parts to determine their reliability, safety and their special suitability for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. We are unable to make an assessment for other products and therefore cannot be held responsible for them, even if in individual cases an official approval or authorization by governmental or other agencies should exist. Use of such parts and accessories could adversely affect the safety, performance or reliability of your vehicle. Please do not use them. Mercedes-Benz original parts as well as conversion parts and accessories approved by us are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center where you will receive comprehensive information, also on permissible technical modifications, and where proper installation will be performed.

Introduction

Introduction

Operator’s manual This Operator’s Manual contains a great deal of useful information. We urge you to read it carefully and familiarize yourself with the vehicle before driving. For your own safety and longer service life of the vehicle, we urge you to follow the instructions and warnings contained in this manual. Ignoring them could result in damage to the vehicle or personal injury to you or others. Vehicle damage caused by failure to follow instructions is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Your vehicle may have some or all of the equipment described in this manual. Therefore, you may find explanations for optional equipment not installed in your vehicle. If you have any questions about the operation of any equipment, your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center will be glad to demonstrate the proper procedures.

Service and warranty information The Service and Warranty Information Booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering your Mercedes-Benz, including: • New Light Truck Limited Warranty, • Emission System Warranty, • Emission Performance Warranty, • California, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont Emission Control System Warranty

(California, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont only),

• State Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon Laws).

Important notice for California retail buyers of Mercedes-Benz automobiles Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, if Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC or its authorized Mercedes-Benz Center fails to conform the vehicle to its express warranties after a reasonable number of repair attempts during the period of one year or 12 000 miles from original delivery of the vehicle. A reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed for a retail buyer (1) if the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of substantial nonconformities for a cumulative total of more than 30 calendar days or (2) the same substantial non-conformity has been subject to repair four or more times and you have at least once directly notified us in writing of the need to repair the non-conformity and have given us an opportunity to perform the repair ourselves. Notifications should be sent to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Regional Office listed in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet.

Maintenance The Service Booklet describes all the necessary maintenance work which should be performed at regular intervals. Always have the Service Booklet with you when you take the vehicle to your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center for service. The service advisor will record each service in the booklet for you.

Introduction

Introduction

10

Roadside assistance The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program provides factory trained technical help in the event of a breakdown. Calls to the toll-free Roadside Assistance number:

1-800-FOR-MERCedes (in the USA) 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada)

will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Client Assistance Representatives 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Roadside assistance will be provided in accordance with standard program guidelines which include providing service to the vehicle up to a reasonable distance from a paved roadway. We will make every effort to assist in a breakdown situation, however, the accessibility of your vehicle will be determined by our authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center technician or the tow service provider on a case by case basis and may be a factor in our ability to respond. Additional charges may be applicable for a breakdown location determined not to be a reasonably accessible roadside location as determined by our authorized technician and tow service provider. For additional information refer to the Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program brochure in your glove box.

Change of address or ownership If you change your address, be sure to send in the “Change of Address Notice” found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or simply call the Mercedes-Benz Client Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100. It is in your own interest that we can contact you should the need arise. If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all literature with the vehicle to make it available to the next operator. If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in the “Notice of Purchase of Used Car” found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or call the Mercedes-Benz Client Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.

Operating your vehicle outside the USA or Canada If you plan to operate your vehicle in foreign countries, please be aware that: • Service facilities or replacement parts may not be readily available, • unleaded gasoline for vehicles with catalytic converters may not be available; the use of leaded fuels will damage

the catalysts,

• gasoline may have a considerably lower octane rating, and improper fuel can cause engine damage.

Introduction

11

Introduction

12

We continuously strive to improve our product, and ask for your understanding that we reserve the right to make changes in design and equipment. Therefore, information, illustrations and descriptions in this Operator’s Manual might differ from your vehicle. Optional equipment is also described in this manual, including operating instructions wherever necessary. Since they are special-order items, the descriptions and illustrations herein may vary slightly from the actual equipment of your vehicle. If there are any equipment details that are not shown or described in this Operator’s Manual, your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center will be glad to inform you of correct care and operating procedures. The Operator’s Manual and Service Booklet are important documents and should be kept with the vehicle.

Warning! This Sport Utility Vehicle is designed for both on-road and off-road use. It can go places and perform tasks for which conventional 2-wheel drive passenger cars were not intended. This vehicle will handle and maneuver differently from conventional passenger cars in driving conditions which may occur on streets, highways and off-road use. This vehicle has a higher ground clearance and a higher center of gravity than many passenger cars. As with other vehicles of this type, if you make sharp turns at excessive speeds or abrupt maneuvers, the vehicle may roll over or may go out of control and crash. Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. Failure to operate this vehicle safely may result in an accident, rollover of the vehicle, and severe or fatal injury. Before you start to drive this vehicle, read the Operator’s Manual. Take time to become familiar with the driving characteristics of this vehicle. Be sure you are familiar with all vehicle controls. Learn how your vehicle handles on different road surfaces. Do not attempt sharp turns at excessive speeds or abrupt maneuvers or other unsafe driving actions that can cause loss of vehicle control. When driving off-road or working the vehicle, do not overload it. And, always wear your seat belts at all times. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.

Introduction

13

Introduction

14

Where to find it

The Operator’s Manual is divided into eight sections: • Instruments and controls: An overview of all the controls that can be operated from the driver’s seat. • Operation: Information on the vehicle’s equipment and its operation. • Driving: Important information on driving. • Instrument cluster display: Indicator lamps on the instrument cluster with brief instructions. • Practical hints: Assistance and instructions in the event of an emergency. • Car care: Instructions on caring for your vehicle. • Technical data: All the important technical data for your vehicle as well as consumer information such as fuels,

coolants, lubricants etc. is contained here.

• Index: Key terms to help you find a topic quickly.

Other documents may also be supplied, depending on your vehicle’s equipment.

Explanation of color used:

Warning notices for the protection of yourself and others appear on red background.

Problems with your vehicle If you should experience a problem with your vehicle, particularly one that you believe may affect its safe operation, we urge you to immediately contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center to have the problem diagnosed and corrected if required. If the matter is not handled to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem with the Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center management, or if necessary contact us at the following addresses:

In the USA:

In Canada:

Client Assistance Center Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350 Customer Relations Department Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. 849 Eglinton Avenue East Toronto, Ontario, M4G 2L5

Introduction

15

Introduction

16

For the USA only: The following text is published as required of manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”.

Reporting Safety Defects If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your retailer, or Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

Instruments and controls

Instruments and controls ............... 18
Center console ..............................20
Overhead control panel ............... 21

Contents - Instruments and controls

17

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

18

Instruments and controls

For more detailed descriptions see index on page 300. For adjustment of air outlets, refer to climate control, see page 98.

1 Cup holder, see page 114
2 Parking brake release, see page 173
3 Parking brake pedal, see page 173
4 Steering wheel adjustment lever, see page 70
5 Headlamp washer switch, see page 94
6 Exterior lamp switch, see page 90
7 Cruise control switch, see page 196
8 Instrument cluster, see page 76
9 Hazard warning flasher switch, see page 94
10 Horn (with key in steering lock position 1 or 2),

Driver airbag, see page 56

11 Steering lock with ignition/starter switch, see

page 162

12 Switch for exterior rear view mirrors, electrically

folding, see page 75

13 Windshield wiper/washer switch, see page 95

14 Transmission control – LOW RANGE mode, see

page 209

15 Indicator lamp for antitheft alarm system 16 Auxiliary front fog lamp/rear fog lamp switch, see

page 92

17 MCS (Optional Modular Control System), see

separate operator’s manual

18 Front passenger airbag, see page 56
19 Glove box (illuminated with key in steering lock

position 1 or 2)

20 Cup holder, see page 114
21 Storage compartment 22 Air recirculation switch, see page 98
23 Air conditioner on/off switch, see page 98
24 Air volume control switch 25 Temperature selector switch 26 Air distribution switch 27 Electrical outlet, see page 230

Instruments and controls

19

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Center console

20

1 Left front seat heater switch, see page 44
2 Switch for rear quarter window, left, see page 106
3 Switch for rear window washer/wiper, see page 96
4 ESP control switch, see page 207
5 Switch for rear quarter window, right, see page 106
6 Right front seat heater switch, see page 44
7 Storage compartment 8 Selector lever, see page 165
9 Ashtray with lighter, see page 118
10 Power window switch, left front door, see page 104
11 Central locking switch, see page 32
12 Rear window defroster switch, see page 103
13 Power window switch, right front door, see page 104
14 Power window switch, left rear door, see page 104
15 Mirror adjustment switch, see page 73
16 Power window safety switch, rear doors, see

page 104

17 Power window switch, right rear door, see page 104

Overhead control panel

1 Interior lighting, see page 110
2 Garage door opener, see page 140
3 Hands-free microphone for Tele Aid, telephone and

voice recognition system

4 Tele Aid (emergency call system), see page 148
5 Sliding/pop-up roof, see page 107

Skyview Top, see page 109

6 Rear view mirror, see page 71

Reading lamps inside rear view mirror, see page 110

Instruments and controls

21

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Contents - Operation

Operation

Vehicle keys ......................................24
Start lock-out ....................................25
General notes on the

central locking system ...............26
Central locking system ...................26

Radio frequency remote control ..............................26
Unlocking the liftgate ..................28
Panic button ..................................28
Mechanical keys ...........................29
Doors ..................................................30
Central locking switch ....................32
Automatic central locking ..........32

Emergency unlocking in case

of accident ....................................33
Liftgate ...............................................34
Antitheft alarm system ...................35
Tow-away alarm and

glass breakage sensor ................36
Seats, front ........................................37
Manual seats .................................39
Power seats ...................................40

22

Head restraint ...............................41
Heated seats ..................................... 44
Seat belts and integrated

restraint system .......................... 46
Seat belts .......................................... 46

Seat belt nonusage warning system ............................ 47

BabySmartTM airbag

deactivation system ................... 53
Self-test BabySmartTM without special child seat installed ................................ 53

Supplemental restraint

system (SRS) ............................... 54

Emergency tensioning

retractor (ETR) ............................ 55
Airbags .............................................. 56

Safety guidelines for the seat belt, emergency tensioning retractor and airbag ..................................... 63
Infant and child restraint systems ......................... 65
Adjustable steering wheel .............. 70
Inside rear view mirror ...................71

Antiglare night position .............. 71
Exterior rear view mirrors .............73

Exterior rear view mirror, electrically folding .......................75
Instrument cluster ........................... 76
Indicator lamps in the

instrument cluster ......................78
Trip computer ...................................83
Flexible service system (FSS) ........87
Engine oil level indicator ................89
Exterior lamp switch .......................90
Fog lamp switch

(except Canada) ..........................92

Fog lamp switch

(Canada only) ..............................93

Hazard warning flasher

switch ............................................94
Headlamp cleaning system ............94
Windshield wiper/washer

switch ............................................95
Rear window wiper/washer ...........96
Climate control .................................98
Basic setting – Heater ............... 100

Basic setting – Air conditioner ...........................100
Special setting ............................ 101
Dust filter .................................... 102
Air recirculation .........................102
Rear window defroster .............. 103
Power windows ............................... 104
Rear quarter windows ................... 106
Sliding/pop-up roof .......................107
Skyview Top .................................... 109
Interior lighting ..............................110
Sun visors ........................................113

Illuminated vanity mirrors ........... 113
Interior .............................................114
Storage compartments,

armrest and cup holder ............114
Glove box ...................................... 115
Armrest in rear bench seat ...........117
Ashtrays ........................................... 118
Lighter .............................................. 119
Split rear seat bench ..................... 120
Easy entry/exit feature ............. 123
Rear seat head restraints ......... 124
Third row seats .............................. 126

Removable cargo floor plates .......129
Enlarged cargo area ....................... 131
Cargo tie-down rings .....................132
Hooks ...............................................133
Partition net .................................... 133
Loading instructions .....................136
Cargo area cover blind ..................137
Telephone, general ........................139
Cellular telephone .........................139
Garage door opener .......................140

Contents - Operation

23

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Central locking system

24

Vehicle keys Included with your vehicle are: • 2 remote controls with folding master keys, • 1 reserve key,

Warning! When leaving the vehicle always remove the key from the steering lock, and lock your vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

Remote control with folding master key

The remote control operates all locks on the vehicle. To release the key, press button (1). The key unfolds from the holder by itself. The transmitter for the remote control is located in the key holder.

Reserve key

The reserve key fits all locks on the vehicle. For notes on the mechanical keys refer to page 29.

Note: We recommend that you carry the reserve key with you and keep it in a safe place (e.g. your wallet) so that it is always handy. Never leave the reserve key in the vehicle.

Obtaining replacement keys Your vehicle is equipped with a theft deterrent locking system requiring a special key manufacturing process. For security reasons, replacement keys can only be obtained from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Start lock-out

Important! Removing the key from the steering lock activates the start lock-out. The engine cannot be started. Turning the key in the steering lock to position 2 deactivates the start lock-out.

Note: In case the engine cannot be started and the messages Á and î are shown in the odometer display field, the system is not operational. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center or call 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (in the USA), or 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada).

Central locking system

25

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Central locking system

26

General notes on the central locking system If the key in the steering lock is in position 1 or 2, the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked with the remote control. If the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked: • Check the batteries of the remote control, see

page 270.

• Synchronize the remote control, see page 271.

Central locking system

(Radio frequency remote control) The master key has an integrated radio frequency remote control. Due to the extended operational range of the remote control, it could be possible to unintentionally lock or unlock the vehicle by pressing the transmit button. The vehicle doors, liftgate and fuel filler flap can be centrally locked and unlocked via remote control. With vehicle centrally locked, the liftgate can also be unlocked by using the remote control. If the key in the steering lock is in position 1 or 2, the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked with the remote control.

Locking and unlocking with remote control

Unlocking: Press transmit button Œ once. All turn signal lamps blink once to indicate that the driver’s door and fuel filler flap are unlocked. The antitheft alarm system is also deactivated. Press transmit button Œ a second time to unlock remaining doors and liftgate.

Notes: If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, see page 274. If within 40 seconds of unlocking with the remote control, neither door nor liftgate is opened or the key is not inserted in the steering lock, the vehicle will automatically lock and reactivate the antitheft alarm system.

1 Transmit button

‹ Locking Œ Unlocking Š Unlocking liftgate

2 PANIC button 3 Release button for master key

Central locking system

27

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Central locking system

Locking: Press transmit button ‹ once. All turn signal lamps blink three times to indicate that the vehicle is locked and the antitheft alarm is activated.

Notes: If the turn signal lamps do not blink three times when locking the vehicle, a door, the liftgate, or the hood is not properly closed. Close the respective element and lock the vehicle again with the remote control. If the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked by pressing the transmit button, then it may be necessary to change the batteries in the remote control or to synchronize the remote control, see page 270 and page 271.

Unlocking the liftgate Press transmit button Š to unlock the liftgate. This also deactivates the antitheft alarm.

Important! A minimum height clearance of 7 ft. (2.15 m) is required to open the liftgate.

28

Panic button

To activate press and hold button (1) for at least one second. An audible alarm and blinking turn signal lamps will operate for approximately 3 minutes. Additionally the interior lights switch on automatically for approximately 3 minutes. To deactivate press button (1) again, or press transmit button ‹, Œ or Š on the remote control, or turn key in steering lock to position 1.

Note: For operation in the USA only: This device complies with Part 15, Subpart C, Section 209 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. WARNING: Changes or modification not expressly approved by party responsible for compliance could void the users’s authority to operate the equipment.

Mechanical keys The mechanical keys fit all locks on the vehicle.

Notes: Use of the key does not operate the central locking system or arm or disarm the antitheft alarm system. The alarm sounds when unlocking the door. Cancel alarm by turning key in steering lock to position 1, or with the remote control by pressing button Œ.

Central locking system

29

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

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Car care

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data

Index

Central locking system

Doors

30

1 Opening – pull handle 2 Unlocking driver’s door lock 3 Locking driver’s door lock 4 Individual door from inside:

Push lock button down to lock. Pull lock button up to unlock.

P72.10-2103-26

5 Front door from inside: Pull handle to unlock.

Important! The mechanical key does not operate the central locking system or arm or disarm the antitheft alarm system.

When you lock the driver’s door with the mechanical key, the door lock button should move down.

Each individual door and the liftgate must be locked with the respective door lock button – the driver’s door can only be locked when it is closed.

Notes: The alarm sounds when unlocking the driver’s door. Cancel alarm by turning key in steering lock to position 1, or with the remote control by pressing button Œ. If the vehicle has previously been locked from the outside, only the door being opened from the inside will unlock, and the alarm will come on. The remaining doors, the liftgate and fuel filler flap remain locked. In case of a malfunction in the central locking system the doors can be locked and unlocked individually.

To lock, push down lock buttons and turn mechanical key in driver’s door lock to position 3. In addition lock the liftgate. To unlock, pull inside door handles and turn mechanical key in driver’s door lock to position 2. Rear doors, previously centrally locked, can be opened from inside by first unlocking the vehicle with the central locking switch, see page 32, or by first pulling up the door lock button. If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, see page 274.

Central locking system

31

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Central locking system

32

Central locking switch

1 Locking 2 Unlocking The central locking switch is located on the center console. The doors and trunk can only be locked with the central locking switch, if the front doors are closed. If the vehicle was previously locked with the remote control, the doors and liftgate cannot be unlocked with the central locking switch.

Automatic central locking The central locking switch also operates the automatic central locking. With the automatic central locking system activated and the engine running, the doors and trunk are locked at vehicle speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or more.

To activate: With key in steering lock position 2 hold upper portion of switch (1) for a minimum of 5 seconds.

To deactivate: With key in steering lock position 2 hold lower portion of switch (2) for a minimum of 5 seconds.

Emergency unlocking in case of accident The doors unlock automatically a short time after an accident in which an airbag or emergency tensioning retractor deploys (this is intended to aid rescue and exit). However, the key must still be in the steering lock position 1 or 2. Additionally the hazard warning flashers turn on automatically and the interior lights switch on for approximately 30 minutes.

Notes: If doors are unlocked with the central locking switch after activating the automatic central locking, and neither door is opened, then the doors remain unlocked even at vehicle speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or more. If a door is opened from the inside at speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or less with the automatic central locking activated, the door will again be automatically locked at speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or more.

Important! When towing the vehicle, or with the vehicle on a dynamometer test stand, please, note the following: With the engine running, the vehicle doors will lock if the left front wheel spins at vehicle speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or more. To prevent vehicle door locks from locking, deactivate the automatic central locking.

Central locking system

33

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Central locking system

Liftgate

34

1 Grip molding 2 Handle, outside 3 Recessed grip

1 Handle, inside 2 Locking 3 Unlocking

To open: From outside of vehicle, pull on handle (2). To close: Pull down on recessed grip (3), and close by using the grip molding (1).

Important! In case of danger, the unlocked liftgate can be opened with the inside or outside handle. Only drive with the liftgate closed as otherwise exhaust fumes may enter the vehicle interior.

Antitheft alarm system The indicator lamp is located in the center console. The antitheft alarm is automatically armed or disarmed with the remote control by locking or unlocking the vehicle. The antitheft alarm is armed within approximately 15 seconds after locking the vehicle with the remote control. A blinking lamp in the center console indicates that the alarm is armed.

Notes: Use of the key in the front door locks does not arm or disarm the antitheft alarm system. The alarm sounds when unlocking the driver’s door with the mechanical key. Cancel alarm by turning key in steering lock to position 1, or with the remote control by pressing button Œ. If the vehicle battery voltage falls below 10 volts, the alarm is automatically canceled and the antitheft alarm system is disarmed. When the voltage is above this value again, the antitheft alarm system is armed again.

Operation: Once the alarm system has been armed, the turn signal lamps will flash rapidly (approximately 3 minutes) and the horn will sound intermittently (approximately 30 seconds) when someone: • opens a door, • opens the liftgate, • opens the hood, • breaks a window, • attempts to raise the vehicle. The alarm will stay on even if the activating element (a door, for example) is immediately closed. If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically. See Tele Aid on page 148.

Note: The alarm system will cycle three times when triggered. The interior lights are automatically switched on when the alarm comes on and go out when canceling the alarm.

Antitheft alarm system

35

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

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Car care

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data

Index

Tow-away protection

36

Tow-away alarm and glass breakage sensor

The switch is located in the overhead console. The tow-away alarm and glass breakage sensor are part of the antitheft alarm system. Once the alarm system has been armed, the turn signal lamps will flash rapidly and the horn will sound when someone attempts to raise the vehicle, or breaks a window and reaches into the passenger compartment.

The alarm will last approximately 3 minutes in the form of rapidly flashing turn signal lamps. At the same time the horn will sound for approximately 30 seconds. The alarm will stay on even if the vehicle is immediately lowered. If the alarm stays on for more than 20 seconds, an emergency call is initiated automatically. See Tele Aid on page 148. To prevent triggering the tow-away alarm feature, switch off the tow-away alarm and glass breakage sensor before towing the vehicle, or when parking on a surface subject to movement, such as a ferry or auto train. To do so, turn key in steering lock to position 1, then return it to position 0 and remove key from steering lock. Within 30 seconds, push left or right button. (On vehicles equipped with optional trip computer, push RESET or MODE button, display shows OFF.) Exit vehicle, and lock vehicle with remote control. The tow-away alarm and glass breakage sensor remain switched off until the key is inserted in steering lock and turned to position 1.

Seats, front

Warning! Do not adjust the driver’s seat while driving. Adjusting the seat while driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Never ride in a moving vehicle with the backrest reclined. Sitting in an excessively reclined position can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The backrest and seat belt provide the best restraint when the wearer is in an upright position and the belt is properly positioned on the body. Never place hands under seat or near any moving parts while a seat is being adjusted.

Warning! When leaving the vehicle always remove the key from the steering lock, and lock your vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

Caution! Do not remove head restraints except when mounting seat covers. For removal see page 43. Whenever head restraints have been removed be sure to reinstall them before driving.

Seats

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

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data

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37

Instruments and controls

Seats

Operation

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38

Important! Prior to operating the vehicle, the driver should adjust the seat height for proper vision as well as fore/aft placement and backrest angle to insure adequate control, reach, operation, and comfort. The head restraint should also be adjusted for proper height. See also airbag section on page 56 for proper seat positioning. In addition, also adjust the steering wheel to ensure adequate control, reach, operation, and comfort. Both the inside and outside rear view mirrors should be adjusted for adequate rearward vision. Fasten seat belts. Infants and small children should be seated in a properly secured restraint system that complies with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. All seat, head restraint, steering wheel, and rear view mirror adjustments as well as fastening of seat belts should be done before the vehicle is put into motion.

Warning! Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury can result. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in the back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

Manual seats (ML 320)

We recommend to adjust the manual seat in the following order:

1 Seat, fore/aft

Lift handle (1), slide seat to desired position and allow handle to reengage. Check for proper engagement before driving. The position should be as far rearward as possible, consistent with ability to properly operate controls.

2 Seat cushion inclination adjustment

Raise lever (2), move seat cushion to desired position. Release lever. 3 Backrest adjustment

Turn handwheel (3).

4 Head restraint height

Raising: Pull up on head restraint. Lowering: Push button (4), located at top of seat back, and push down on head restraint. Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level. The head restraint angle can also be adjusted manually. See page 43 for removing head restraints.

Seats

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

39

Instruments and controls

Seats

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

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40

Power seats (standard; optional on model ML 320)

We recommend to adjust the power seat in the following order:

1 Seat, up/down

Press the switch (up/down direction) until comfortable seating position with still sufficient headroom is reached.

2 Seat adjustment, fore/aft

Press the switch (fore/aft direction) until a comfortable seating position is reached that still allows you to reach the accelerator/brake pedal safely. The position should be as far rearward as possible, consistent with ability to properly operate controls.

3 Seat cushion tilt

Press the switch in the direction of the arrow until your legs are lightly supported.

4 Backrest tilt

Press the switch in the direction of the arrow until your arms are slightly angled when holding the steering wheel.

The slide switches are located on the entry side of each front seat base. Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2 (with the driver’s or passenger’s door open, the power seats can also be operated with the key removed or in steering lock position 0).

Only minor personal adjustments, as described below, should then be required. For exterior rear view mirrors, see page 73; inside rear view mirror, see page 71; steering wheel adjustment, see page 70.

Note: See page 42 for instructions on storing and recalling the seat position.

Warning! When leaving the vehicle always remove the key from the steering lock, and lock your vehicle. The power seats can also be operated with the driver’s or passenger door open. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

Head restraint

Raising: Pull up on head restraint. Lowering: Push button, located at top of seat back, and push down on head restraint, see also page 43. Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level. The head restraint angle can also be adjusted manually. See page 43 for removing head restraints.

41

Seats

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Seats

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

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Car care

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data

Index

Memory storing and recalling (optional on model ML 320 and ML 430)

5 Memory button 6 Position buttons

42

Storing Three sets of seat positions may be programmed into memory. After the seat is positioned, push memory button (5), release, and within 3 seconds push position button “1”. A second and third set of positions for the same seat can be programmed into memory by pushing first memory button (5) and then position button “2”, respectively “3”.

Recalling To recall a seat position, push and hold one of the position buttons “1”, “2” or “3” until seat movement has stopped. The seat movement stops when the respective position button is released.

Caution! Do not operate the power seats using the memory button if the seat backrest is in an excessively reclined position. Doing so could cause damage to front or rear seats. First move the backrest to an upright position.

Head restraint removal

Ensure proper head restraint positioning, see above.

Warning! For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints. Adjust head restraint to support the back of the head approximately at ear level. Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head restraints. Head restraints are intended to help reduce injuries during an accident.

Removal: Pull head restraint to its highest position. Push lock button (arrow) and pull out head restraint completely with both hands.

Installation: Insert the head restraint and push it down to the stop. Push lock button (arrow) and adjust head restraint down to the desired position.

Seats

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

43

Instruments and controls

Seats

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

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Car care

Technical

data

Index

44

Heated seats (front, optional on ML 320)

Press switch to turn on seat heater:

P54.25-2036-26

The front seat heater switches are located on the center console. The front seat heaters can be switched on with the engine running.

1 Normal seat heating mode. One indicator lamp in

the switch lights up.

2 Rapid seat heating mode. Both indicator lamps in

the switch light up. After approximately 5 minutes in the rapid seat heating mode, the seat heater automatically switches to normal operation and only one indicator lamp will stay on.

Turning off seat heater: If one indicator lamp is on, press upper half of switch. If both indicator lamps are on, press lower half of switch. If left on, the seat heater automatically turns off after approximately 20 minutes of operation.

Notes: When in operation, the seat heater consumes a large amount of electrical power. It is not advisable to use the seat heater longer than necessary. The seat heaters may automatically switch off if too many power consumers are switched on at the same time, or if the battery charge is low. When this occurs, the indicator lamps in the switch will blink for approximately 30 seconds. Within this time the seat heaters will switch on again automatically as soon as sufficient voltage is available. After approximately 30 seconds without sufficient voltage the seat heaters switch off (indicator lamps go out).

Seats

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

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data

Index

45

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

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data

Index

Restraint systems

46

Seat belts and integrated restraint system Your vehicle is equipped with seat belts for all seats, emergency tensioning retractors for front and second row outboard seat belts, dual front airbags and door mounted side impact airbags. Their protective functions are designed to complement one another.

Seat belts

Important! Laws in most states and all Canadian provinces require seat belt use. All states and provinces require use of child restraints that comply with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap belt portion of a lap- shoulder belt. For your safety and that of your passengers we strongly recommend their use.

Warning! Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions. Infants and small children must ride in back seats and be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, fully in accordance with the child seat manufacturer’s instructions. A child’s risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

Warning! Never ride in a moving vehicle with the backrest reclined. Sitting in an excessively reclined position can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The backrest and seat belt provide the best restraint when the wearer is in an upright position and the belt is properly positioned on the body.

Note: For cleaning and care of the seat belts, see page 282.

Seat belt nonusage warning system After starting the engine, a warning sounds and the seat belt warning lamp < remains illuminated for a short time if the driver’s seat belt is not fastened.

Warning! Failure to wear and properly fasten and position your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident. You and your passengers should always wear seat belts. If you are ever in an accident, your injuries can be considerably more severe without your seat belt properly buckled. Without your seat belt buckled, you are much more likely to hit the interior of the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, the possibility for injury or death is lessened if you are wearing your seat belt.

Warning! Never let more people ride in the vehicle than there are seat belts available. Be sure everyone riding in the vehicle is correctly restrained with a separate seat belt.

Restraint systems

47

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

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Car care

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data

Index

Restraint systems

48

Fastening of seat belts

Push latch plate (1) into buckle (2) until it clicks. Do not twist the belt. A twisted seat belt may cause injury. To help avoid severe or fatal injuries, the lap belt must be positioned as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdomen.

Warning! Always fasten your seat belt before driving off. Always make sure your passengers are properly restrained – even those sitting in the rear.

1 Latch plate 2 Buckle 3 Release button

Tighten the lap portion to a snug fit by pulling shoulder portion up. The shoulder portion of the seat belt must be pulled snug and checked for snugness immediately after engaging it. Adjust seat belt so that shoulder portion is located as close as possible to the middle of your shoulder (it should not touch the neck). For this purpose, you can adjust the height of the belt outlet. Three positions are available.

4 Button for belt outlet height adjustment

To raise, slide belt height adjustment upward. To lower, press button (4) and slide belt outlet downward.

Caution! For safety reasons, avoid adjusting the seat or backrest into positions which could affect the correct seat belt positioning.

Restraint systems

49

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

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Car care

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data

Index

Instruments and controls

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Restraint systems

50

Warning! USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY.

• Seat belts can only work when used properly. Never wear seat belts in any other way than as described in this section, as that could result in serious injuries in case of an accident.

• Each occupant should wear their seat belt at all

times, because seat belts help reduce the likelihood of and potential severity of injuries in accidents, including rollovers. The integrated restraint system includes “SRS” (driver airbag, front passenger airbag, front and rear door mounted side impact airbags), “ETR” (seat belt emergency tensioning retractors for the outboard passenger seats [except in the optional 3rd row seats]), and front seat knee bolsters. The system is designed to enhance the protection offered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal (front airbags) and side (side impact airbags) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds.

Operation