2002 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

M-Class

Operator’s Manual

ML 320
ML 500
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 ...............25
Central locking system ...................26

Radio frequency remote control ..............................26
Unlocking the liftgate ..................27
Panic button ..................................28
Mechanical keys ...........................29

Doors ................................................. 30
Central locking switch .................... 32
Automatic central locking .............. 33
Emergency unlocking

in case of accident ...................... 33
Liftgate .............................................. 34
Antitheft alarm system ................... 36
Tow-away alarm and

glass breakage sensor ............... 37
Seats, front ....................................... 38
Manual seats ................................ 40
Power seats ....................................41
Head restraint .............................. 42
Memory function ......................... 43
Heated seats ..................................... 46
Seat belts and

integrated restraint system ....... 48
Seat belts .......................................... 48

Seat belt nonusage warning system ............................ 49

BabySmartTM airbag

deactivation system ................... 55
Self-test BabySmartTM without special child seat installed ......... 55

Contents

Supplemental restraint

system (SRS) ................................56

Emergency tensioning

retractor (ETR) .............................57
Airbags ..............................................58

Safety guidelines for the seat belt, emergency tensioning retractor and airbag .....................................66
Infant and child restraint systems ................68
Adjustable steering wheel .............. 74
Inside rear view mirror ..................75
Antiglare night position ..............75
Exterior rear view mirrors .............77

Exterior rear view mirror, electrically folding .......................79
Instrument cluster ...........................82
Indicator lamps in

the instrument cluster ...............84
Trip computer ...................................89
Flexible service system

(FSS) ..............................................94
Engine oil level indicator ................96
Exterior lamp switch .......................97

Contents

Headlamp mode ...............................99
Night security illumination ......... 101
Locator lighting ..........................102
Fog lamp switch ............................103
Hazard warning flasher

switch .......................................... 104
Headlamp cleaning system .......... 104
Windshield wiper/washer

switch .......................................... 105
Rear window wiper/washer .........106
Automatic climate control ............ 108
Dust filter .....................................111
Basic setting – automatic mode .......................... 112
Programming the basic temperature setting ....................113
Special settings ...........................114
Air volume, manual ....................114
Air distribution, manual ............114
Defroster/Windows fogged up on the inside ......................................115
Air recirculation ..........................116
Economy mode ............................117

Residual engine heat utilization ............................ 117
Switching the automatic climate control on and off ..................................... 118
Switching off the rear passenger compartment ventilation and the rear control panel ....................... 118

Rear passenger compartment

climate control .......................... 119
Manual setting of air volume and air distribution in the rear passenger compartment ............ 119

Rear passenger compartment

adjustable air outlets ............... 120
Rear window defroster ..................121
Power windows .............................. 122
Rear quarter windows .................. 125
Sliding/pop-up roof ....................... 126
Interior lighting ............................. 128
Sun visors ........................................131
Illuminated vanity mirrors ...........131
Interior .............................................132

Storage compartments,

armrest and cup holder ........... 132
Glove box ..................................... 133
Armrest in rear bench seat .......... 136
Ashtrays .......................................... 137
Lighter ............................................. 138
Split rear seat bench ..................... 139
Easy entry/exit feature ............. 142
Rear seat head restraints ..........143
Third row seats ..............................144
Removable cargo floor plates ....... 147
Enlarged cargo area .......................149
Cargo tie-down rings ..................... 150
Hooks ............................................... 151
Partition net .................................... 151
Loading instructions ..................... 154
Cargo area cover blind .................. 155
Telephone, general ........................ 157
Cellular telephone ......................... 157
Garage door opener ....................... 158

Driving

Control and operation of

radio transmitters ..................... 164

The first 1 000 miles

(1 500 km) ................................. 165
Maintenance ................................... 165
Tele Aid ........................................... 166
Catalytic converter ........................ 178
Emission control ............................179
Steering lock ...................................180
Starting and turning off

the engine ..................................182
Automatic transmission ...............183
Parking brake ................................. 191

Driving instructions .......................192
Drive sensibly – save fuel .........192
Drinking and driving .................192
Pedals ...........................................192
Power assistance .........................193
Brakes ...........................................193
Driving off ....................................194
Parking .........................................195
Tires ..............................................195
Snow chains ................................199
Winter driving instructions ......199
Deep water .................................. 201
Passenger compartment ........... 201
Traveling abroad ........................ 201
Off-Road driving ............................ 202
Trailer towing ................................ 209
Cruise control .................................214

Brake assist system

(BAS) ........................................... 217

Antilock brake system

(ABS) ........................................... 219

Four-wheel electronic

traction system (4-ETS+) ..........221

Electronic brake proportioning

(EBP) ...........................................222

Electronic stability program

(ESP) ...........................................223

Transmission control –

LOW RANGE mode ...................227

Parking assist

(Parktronic) ..............................230

What you should know

at the gas station .......................235

Check regularly and

before a long trip ......................238

Contents

Contents

Instrument cluster display

Malfunction and

indicator lamps in the instrument cluster .............240
On-board diagnostic system – Check engine malfunction indicator lamp .............................240
Brake warning lamp .................. 241
Supplemental restraint system (SRS) indicator lamp ..................242
Fuel reserve warning .................242

Electronic stability program (ESP) / Electronic traction system (ETS) – warning lamp .. 243
BAS/ESP malfunction indicator lamp ............................ 243
4-ETS malfunction indicator lamp ............................ 243
LOW RANGE indicator lamp ............................ 243
ABS malfunction indicator lamp ............................ 244
Adjustable steering wheel – indicator lamp ............................ 244
AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp ............................ 244

Seat belt warning lamp .............245
Charge indicator lamp ...............245
Low engine oil level warning lamp ..............................246
Low engine coolant level warning ........................................246
Low windshield and headlamp washer system fluid level warning lamp ....................247
Brake pad wear i ndicator lamp ..............................247
FSS indicator ...............................247

Practical hints

First aid kit .....................................250
Fuses ................................................250
Electrical outlet ..............................252
Stowing items in the vehicle ........252
Hood .................................................253
Checking engine oil level .............255
Automatic transmission

fluid level ...................................256
Engine oil consumption ................256
Coolant level ...................................256
Adding coolant ...........................257

Windshield washer/headlamp

cleaning system .........................258
Windshield and headlamp washer fluid mixing ratio .........259

Vehicle jack,

wheel bolt wrench and screwdriver ............................... 259
Air pump ......................................... 261
Wheels ............................................ 262
Tire replacement ....................... 262
Rotating wheels ......................... 263
Spare wheel .................................... 264
Changing wheels ........................... 267
Tire inflation pressure ................. 272
Battery ............................................. 273
Jump starting ................................. 275
Towing the vehicle ........................ 277

Transmission selector lever, manually unlocking .................. 281
Stranded vehicle ............................ 281

Exterior lamps ................................282
Headlamp assembly ...................283
Taillamp assemblies ..................287
Adjusting headlamp aim ...............290
Remote control battery

replacement ...............................292
Synchronizing remote control ............................293

Emergency operation of

sliding/pop-up roof ...................294

Manual release for

fuel filler flap .............................295
Replacing wiper blades .................295
Roof rack .........................................296

Contents

Index

Index ................................................322

Contents

Vehicle care

Cleaning and care of the vehicle .298
Power washer ..............................299
Tar stains .....................................299
Paintwork, painted body components .................................299
Engine cleaning ..........................300
Vehicle washing .........................300
Ornamental moldings ................300
Headlamps, taillamps, turn signal lenses ...........................................300
Cleaning the parktronic system sensors .........................................301
Window cleaning ........................301
Wiper blades ...............................301
Light alloy wheels ......................302
Instrument cluster .....................302
Steering wheel and gear selector lever ..............................................302
Cup holder ...................................302
Seat belts .....................................302
Headliner .....................................302
Upholstery ...................................303

Hard plastic trim items ............. 303
Plastic and rubber parts ........... 303

Technical data

Spare parts service ....................... 306
Warranty coverage ........................ 306
Identification labels ...................... 307
Layout of poly-V-belt drive ........... 308
Technical data ................................ 309
Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. –

capacities ....................................314
Engine oils .......................................316
Engine oil additives .......................316
Air conditioner refrigerant ...........316
Brake fluid .......................................316
Premium unleaded gasoline .........317
Fuel requirements .........................317
Gasoline additives ..........................318
Coolants ...........................................318
Consumer information ................. 320

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 or lease price, if Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC and/or its authorized repair or service facilities fail to fix one ore more substantial defects or malfunctions in the vehicle that are covered by its express warranty after a reasonable number of repair attempts. During the period of 18 months from original delivery of the vehicle or the accumulation of 18 000 miles on the odometer of the vehicle, whichever occurs first, a reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed for a retail buyer or lessee if one or more of the following occurs: (1) the same substantial defect or malfunction results in a condition that is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle is driven, that defect or malfunction has been subject to repair two or more times, and you have directly notified Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC in writing of the need for its repair and have given us a direct opportunity to perform a repair ourselves, (2) the same substantial defect or malfunction of a less serious nature than category (1) has been subject to repair four or more times and you have directly notified us of the need for its repair and given us the opportunity to repair ourselves, or (3) the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of the same or different substantial defects or malfunctions for a cumulative total of more than 30 calender days. Written notification should be sent to us, not a dealer, at Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC, Customer Assistance Center, One Mercedes Drive, Montvale, NJ 07645-0350.

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 Customer 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 Customer 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 Customer 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:

Customer 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 1-888-327-4236 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

Instruments and controls

18

18

24

25

26

28

27

29

30

23

19

20

21

22

P68.10-2563-29

1 Cup holder, see page 132
2 Parking brake release, see page 191
3 Parking brake pedal, see page 191
4 Steering wheel adjustment lever, see page 74
5 Headlamp washer switch, see page 104
6 Exterior lamp switch, see page 97
7 Cruise control switch, see page 214
8 Instrument cluster, see page 82
9 Hazard warning flasher switch, see page 104
10 Horn (with key in steering lock position 1 or 2),

Driver airbag, see page 58

11 Steering lock with ignition/starter switch, see

page 180

12 Windshield wiper/washer switch, see page 105
13 Voice recognition system switch (optional only for

Canada), see separate operating instructions

14 Parking assist warning indicators, see page 230
15 Transmission control switch– LOW RANGE mode,

see page 227

16 Indicator lamp for antitheft alarm system 17 Front fog lamp/rear fog lamp switch, see page 103
18 MCS (Optional Modular Control System), see

separate operator’s manual

19 Front passenger airbag, see page 58
20 Glove box (illuminated with key in steering lock

position 1 or 2)

21 Cup holder, see page 132
22 Storage compartment 23 Electrical outlet, see page 252
24 Automatic climate control switch, see page 108

Rear window defroster switch, see page 121

25 Left front seat heater switch, see page 46
26 Switch for rear quarter window, left, see page 125
27 Switch for rear window washer/wiper, see page 106
28 ESP control switch, see page 225
29 Switch for rear quarter window, right, see page 125
30 Right front seat heater switch, see page 46

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 Ashtray with lighter, see page 137
2 Selector lever, see page 183
3 Power window switch, left front door, see page 122
4 Power window safety switch, rear doors,

see page 122

5 Power window switch, left rear door, see page 122
6 Central locking switch, see page 32
7 Storage compartment, see page 133
8 Exterior mirror adjustment switch, see page 77

Exterior mirrors, electrically folding, see page 79

9 Parking assist (parktronic) deactivation switch

(optional), see page 230

10 Power window switch, right rear door, see page 122
11 Power window switch, right front door, see page 122

P68.20-2472-27

1 Interior lighting, see page 128
2 Garage door opener, see page 158
3 Hands-free microphone for Tele Aid, telephone and

voice recognition system

4 Tele Aid (emergency call system), see page 166
5 Sliding/pop-up roof, see page 126
6 Rear view mirror, see page 75

Reading lamps inside rear view mirror, see page 128

Overhead control panel

27

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 ...............25
Central locking system ...................26

Radio frequency remote control ..............................26
Unlocking the liftgate ..................27
Panic button ..................................28
Mechanical keys ...........................29
Doors ..................................................30
Central locking switch ....................32
Automatic central locking ..............33
Emergency unlocking

in case of accident ......................33
Liftgate ...............................................34
Antitheft alarm system ...................36
Tow-away alarm and

glass breakage sensor ................37
Seats, front ........................................38
Manual seats .................................40
Power seats ................................... 41

22

Head restraint .............................. 42
Memory function ......................... 43
Heated seats ..................................... 46
Seat belts and

integrated restraint system ....... 48
Seat belts .......................................... 48

Seat belt nonusage warning system ............................ 49

BabySmartTM airbag

deactivation system ................... 55
Self-test BabySmartTM without special child seat installed ......... 55

Supplemental restraint

system (SRS) ............................... 56

Emergency tensioning

retractor (ETR) ............................ 57
Airbags .............................................. 58

Safety guidelines for the seat belt, emergency tensioning retractor and airbag ..................................... 66
Infant and child restraint systems ............... 68
Adjustable steering wheel ...............74
Inside rear view mirror .................. 75

Antiglare night position ..............75
Exterior rear view mirrors .............77

Exterior rear view mirror, electrically folding .......................79
Instrument cluster ...........................82
Indicator lamps in

the instrument cluster ...............84
Trip computer ...................................89
Flexible service system

(FSS) ..............................................94
Engine oil level indicator ................96
Exterior lamp switch .......................97
Headlamp mode ...............................99
Night security illumination ......... 101
Locator lighting .......................... 102
Fog lamp switch ............................ 103
Hazard warning flasher

switch ..........................................104
Headlamp cleaning system ..........104
Windshield wiper/washer

switch ..........................................105
Rear window wiper/washer ......... 106
Automatic climate control ............108
Dust filter .....................................111

Partition net .................................... 151
Loading instructions ..................... 154
Cargo area cover blind .................. 155
Telephone, general ........................ 157
Cellular telephone ......................... 157
Garage door opener ....................... 158

Basic setting – automatic mode .......................... 112
Programming the basic temperature setting ....................113
Special settings ...........................114
Air volume, manual ....................114
Air distribution, manual ............114
Defroster/Windows fogged up on the inside ......................................115
Air recirculation ..........................116
Economy mode ............................117
Residual engine heat utilization ............................117
Switching the automatic climate control on and off .....................................118
Switching off the rear passenger compartment ventilation and the rear control panel .......................118

Rear passenger compartment

climate control ..........................119
Manual setting of air volume and air distribution in the rear passenger compartment ............119

Rear passenger compartment

adjustable air outlets ............... 120
Rear window defroster ..................121
Power windows .............................. 122
Rear quarter windows .................. 125
Sliding/pop-up roof ....................... 126
Interior lighting ............................. 128
Sun visors ........................................131
Illuminated vanity mirrors ...........131
Interior .............................................132
Storage compartments,

armrest and cup holder ............132
Glove box ......................................133
Armrest in rear bench seat ...........136
Ashtrays ...........................................137
Lighter ..............................................138
Split rear seat bench ......................139
Easy entry/exit feature ............. 142
Rear seat head restraints ......... 143
Third row seats .............................. 144
Removable cargo floor plates ...... 147
Enlarged cargo area ...................... 149
Cargo tie-down rings .....................150
Hooks ...............................................151

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.

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.

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 292.

• Synchronize the remote control, see page 293.

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

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.

1 Transmit button

‹ Locking Œ Unlocking Š Unlocking liftgate

2 PANIC button 3 Release button for master key

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 295. 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.

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 292 and page 293.

Unlocking the liftgate Press transmit button Š to unlock only 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.

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

Panic button

28

Note: For operation in the USA only: This device complies with Part 15 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. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void to the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

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.

Mechanical keys The mechanical keys fit all locks on the vehicle. Remove the protective cap from the door lock before inserting the mechanical key into the lock.

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 or ‹.

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

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

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 or ‹. 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 295.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

P72.10-2307-26

1 Grip molding 2 Handle, outside 3 Recessed grip

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.

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.

1 Handle, inside 2 Locking 3 Unlocking

Central locking 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

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Antitheft alarm system

36

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 mechanical 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 or ‹. 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 166.

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 the alarm is cancelled.

Tow-away alarm and glass breakage sensor

The switch (1) 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 166. 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 and press the OFF button on switch (1), then return key to position 0 and remove it from steering lock. Within 30 seconds, push left or right button on switch 1. (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.

Tow-away protection

37

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Instruments and controls

Seats

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

38

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 45. Whenever head restraints have been removed be sure to reinstall them before driving.

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 58 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.

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

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

40

Manual seats (ML 320)

2 Seat cushion tilt

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

3 Backrest tilt

Turn handwheel (3) until your arms are slightly angled when holding the steering wheel.

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 45 for removing head restraints.

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.

Power seats (standard; optional on 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. The power seats are always in operational readiness.

Seats

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

41

Instruments and controls

Seats

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Only minor personal adjustments, as described below, should then be required. For exterior rear view mirrors, see page 77; inside rear view mirror, see page 75; steering wheel adjustment, see page 74.

Note: See page 43 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.

42

Head restraint

Raising: Pull up on head restraint. Lowering: Push button (1) and push down on head restraint, see also page 45. 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 45 for removing head restraints.

Memory function (optional; Canada only: standard on ML 500; USA: standard on ML 55 AMG)

The memory and stored position buttons are located on the entry side of each front seat base.

5 Memory button 6 Position buttons

Warning! Do not activate the memory function while driving. Activating the memory function while driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Storing positions into memory Three sets of seat and exterior rear view mirror positions may be programmed into memory. Together with the driver’s seat you can store the exterior rear view mirrors. Adjust the seat and exterior rear view mirror to the desired position. See page 41 for seat and page 77 for exterior rear view mirror adjustment. For the front passenger seat you can store the seat position. 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”.

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

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

44

Recalling positions from memory To recall a seat and exterior rear view mirror 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

45

Instruments and controls

Seats

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

46

Heated seats (optional on ML 320)

Press switch to turn on seat heater:

P54.25-2036-26

The seat heater switches are located on the center console. The 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

Technical

data

Index

47

Instruments and controls

Operation

Driving

Instrument cluster display

Practical hints

Car care

Technical

data

Index

Restraint systems

48

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 302.

Seat belt nonusage warning system After starting the engine, a warning sounds and the seat belt warning lamp < remains illuminated for approximately 6 seconds 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.