2003 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

Many cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are poisonous, others are flammable. Always follow the instructions on the partic- ular container. Always open your vehicle’s doors or windows when cleaning the inside.

Never use fluids or solvents that are not de- signed for cleaning your vehicle.

While in operation, even while parked, your vehicle is subjected to varying external in- fluences which, if gone unchecked, can at- tack the paintwork as well as the underbody and cause lasting damage.

Such damage is caused not only by ex- treme and varying climatic conditions, but also by: ì•« Air pollution ì•« Road salt ì•« Tar, gravel and stone chipping To avoid paint damage, you should imme- diately remove: ì•« Grease and oil ì•« Fuel ì•« Coolant ì•« Brake fluid ì•« Bird droppings ì•« Insects ì•« Tree resins, etc.

Frequent washing reduces and/or elimi- nates the aggressiveness and potency of the above adverse influences. More frequent washings are necessary to deal with unfavorable conditions, for ex- ample: ì•« Near the ocean ì•« In industrial areas (smoke, exhaust

emissions)

ì•« During winter operation You should check your vehicle from time to time for stone chipping or other damage. Any damage should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent corrosion. In doing so, do not neglect the underbody of the vehicle. A prerequisite for a thor- ough check is a washing of the underbody followed by a thorough inspection. Dam- aged areas need to be re-undercoated.

217

Operation Vehicle care

Your vehicle has been treated at the facto- ry with a wax-base rustproofing in the body cavities which will last for the lifetime of the vehicle. Post-production treatment is neither necessary nor recommended by Mercedes-Benz because of the possibility of incompatibility between materials used in the production process and others ap- plied later. We have selected car-care products and compiled recommendations which are specially matched to our vehicles and which always reflect the latest technology. You can obtain Mercedes-Benz approved car-care products at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosion or damage due to negligent or incorrect care cannot always be removed or repaired with the car-care products recommended here. In such cases it is best to seek aid at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. The following topics deal with the cleaning and care of your vehicle and give important “how-to” information as well as references to Mercedes-Benz approved car-care prod- ucts. Additional information can be found in the booklet entitled “Vehicle Care Guide”.

Power washer When using a power washer for cleaning the vehicle, always observe manufactur- er’s operating instructions.

Never use a round nozzle to power wash tires. The intense jet of water can result in damage to the tire. Always replace a damaged tire. Always keep the jet of water moving across the surface. Do not aim directly at electrical parts, electrical connec- tors, seals, or other rubber parts.

Tar stains Quickly remove tar stains before they dry and become more difficult to remove. A tar remover is recommended.

218

Operation Vehicle care

Paintwork, painted body components Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Care should be applied when water drops on the paint surface do not “bead up”, normally every 3 to 5 months, depending on climate and washing detergent used. Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Cleaner should be applied if the paint surface shows signs of dirt embedding (i.e. loss of gloss). Do not apply any of these products or wax if your vehicle is parked in the sun or if the hood is still hot. Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up Stick for quick and provisional repairs of minor paint damage (i.e. chips from stones, vehi- cle doors, etc.).

Engine cleaning Prior to cleaning the engine compartment, make sure to protect electrical compo- nents and connectors from the intrusion of water and cleaning agents. Corrosion protection, such as MB Anticor- rosion Wax should be applied to the engine compartment after every engine cleaning. Before applying, all control linkage bush- ings and joints should be lubricated. The poly-V-belt and all pulleys should be pro- tected from any wax.

Vehicle washing Do not use hot water or wash your vehicle in direct sunlight. Use only a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz ap- proved Car Shampoo.

Thoroughly spray the vehicle with a dif- fused jet of water. Direct only a very weak spray towards the ventilation intake. Use plenty of water and rinse the sponge and chamois frequently. Rinse with clear water and thoroughly dry with a chamois. Do not allow cleaning agents to dry on the finish. Due to the width of the vehicle, fold in out- side mirrors prior to running the vehicle through an automatic car wash to prevent damage to the mirrors. In the winter, thoroughly remove all traces of road salt as soon as possible. When washing the underbody, do not for- get to clean the inner sides of the wheels.

219

Operation Vehicle care

Ornamental moldings For regular cleaning and care of very dirty chrome-plated parts, use a chrome clean- er.

Headlamps, tail lamps, turn signal lenses Use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo, with plenty of water. To prevent scratches, never apply strong force and use only a soft, non-scratchy cloth when cleaning the lenses. Do not at- tempt to wipe dirty lenses with a dry cloth or sponge.

220

Cleaning the Parktronic* system sensor

1 Parktronic system sensor Use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo, with plenty of water to clean the sensor 1. When using a steam cleaner or power washer, aim nozzle only briefly from a min- imum distance of 4 in. (10 cm) at sensors 1. To prevent scratches, never apply strong force and use only a soft, non-scratchy cloth when cleaning the sensor. Do not at- tempt to wipe dirty sensors with a dry cloth or sponge.

Wiper blades Clean the wiper blade inserts with a clean cloth and detergent solution.

For safety reasons, remove key from steering lock before cleaning the wiper blades, otherwise the wiper motor can suddenly turn on and cause injury.

Window cleaning Use a window cleaning solution on all glass surfaces. An automotive glass cleaner is recommended.

For safety reasons, switch off wipers and remove key from steering lock be- fore cleaning the windshield, otherwise the wiper motor can suddenly turn on and cause injury.

Light alloy wheels Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care should be used for regular cleaning of the light alloy wheels. If possible, clean wheels once a week with Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care, us- ing a soft bristle brush and a strong spray of water. Follow instructions on container.

Use only acid-free cleaning materials. The acid could lead to corrosion.

Instrument cluster Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe with a cloth moist- ened in lukewarm solution. Do not use scouring agents.

Operation Vehicle care

Steering wheel and gear selector lever Wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care.

Hard plastic trim items Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto soft lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure.

Cup holder Use a gentle dishwashing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe with a cloth moist- ened in lukewarm solution. Do not use scouring agents.

Headliner Clean with soft bristle brush, or use a dry-shampoo cleaner in case of excessive dirt.

Seat belts The webbing must not be treated with chemical cleaning agents. Use only clear, lukewarm water and soap. Do not dry the webbing at temperatures above 176°F (80°C) or in direct sunlight.

Warning!

Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be able to provide adequate protection.

221

MB Tex upholstery Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto soft lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure.

Plastic and rubber parts Do not use oil or wax on these parts.

Operation Vehicle care

Upholstery Using aftermarket seat covers or wearing clothing that have the tendency to give off coloring (e.g. when wet etc.) may cause the upholstery to become permanently dis- colored. By lining the seats with a proper intermediate cover, contact-discoloration will be prevented.

Leather upholstery Wipe leather upholstery with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care. Exercise particular care when cleaning per- forated leather as its underside should not become wet.

222

Practical hints What to do if …

Where will I find ...?

Unlocking/locking in an emergency

Opening/closing in an emergency

Replacing bulbs

Replacing wiper blades

Flat tire

Battery

Jump starting

Towing the vehicle

Fuses

223

Practical hints What to do if … What to do if … Lamps in instrument cluster

General information: If a bulb in the instrument cluster fails to light up during the bulb self-check when

turning the key in steering lock to position 2, have it checked and replaced if necessary.

Problem v The yellow 4-ETS/ESP warning

lamp lights up while driving.

Possible cause The ESP is deactivated. Risk of accident! Adapt your speed and driving to the prevail- ing road conditions.

v The yellow 4-ETS/ESP warning

lamp flashes while driving.

The ESP or 4-ETS has come into operation because of detected traction loss in at least one tire.

Suggested solution 왘 Turn the ESP back on (컄 page 77). If the ESP cannot be turned back on, have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possi- ble. 왘 During take-off apply as little throttle

as possible.

왘 While driving ease up on the accelera-

tor.

왘 Adapt your speed and driving to the

prevailing road and weather condi- tions.

왘 Do not deactivate the ESP (excep-

tions: (컄 page 76).

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of accidents.

224

Problem - The yellow ABS malfunction indi- cator lamp comes on while driv- ing.

Possible cause ABS has detected a malfunction and has switched off. The BAS, ESP, 4-ETS and EBP are also switched off. The brake system is still functioning normally but without ABS available.

The charging voltage has fallen below 10 volts. The ABS has switched off.

¿ The yellow malfunction indicator

lamp comes on while driving.

The ESP is no longer synchronized following a voltage supply interuption (e.g. battery dis- connected or discharged).

The charging voltage has fallen below 10 volts. The BAS and ESP have switched off.

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution 왘 Continue driving with added caution. Wheels will lock during hard braking reducing steering capability.

왘 Have the system checked at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Cen- ter as soon as possible.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of an accident. When the voltage is above this value again, the ABS is operational again. 왘 If necessary, have the generator and

the battery checked.

Synchronize the ESP: 왘 Turn the steering wheel from stop lim-

it to stop limit. The indicator lamp goes out.

When the voltage is above this value again, the BAS and ESP are operational again. 왘 If necessary, have the generator and

the battery checked.

225

Practical hints What to do if …

Problem ¿ The yellow malfunction indicator

lamp comes on while driving.

{ The yellow malfunction indicator

lamp comes on while driving.

ê The yellow LOW RANGE indicator

lamp blinks after one or more switching conditions.

Possible cause The BAS or ESP is malfunctioning. It is possible that the engine output will be re- duced. 4-ETS has switched off to prevent overheat- ing of the brakes. Also see 4-ETS/ESP warn- ing lamp (컄 page 224).

Suggested solution 왘 Have the BAS/ESP checked at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center as soon as possible.

As soon as the brakes have cooled off, 4-ETS switches on again. The indicator lamp goes out.

4-ETS is malfunctioning and has switched off. 왘 Have the 4-ETS checked at your au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center as soon as possible.

The gear selection conditions have not been adhered to.

왘 Repeat the gear selection process

(컄 page 118).

ê The yellow LOW RANGE indicator

LOW RANGE mode is malfunctioning.

lamp blinks after switching the ignition on.

Have the LOW RANGE mode checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

226

Problem 1 The red SRS indicator lamp lights

up while driving.

Possible cause There is a malfunction in the restraint sys- tems. The airbags or emergency tensioning device (ETDs) could deploy unexpectedly or fail to activate in an accident.

Suggested solution 왘 Drive with added caution to the near- est authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Practical hints What to do if …

Warning!

In the event a malfunction of the SRS is indi- cated as outlined above, the SRS may not be operational. For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the system checked, otherwise the SRS may not be activated when needed in an acci- dent, which could result in serious or fatal injury, or it might deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could result in an acci- dent and/or injury to you or to others.

227

Practical hints What to do if …

Problem É The red brake warning lamp

lights up while driving and you hear a warning sound.

Possible cause You are driving with the parking brake set.

Suggested solution 왘 Release the parking brake

(컄 page 45).

É The red brake warning lamp

lights up while driving.

There is insufficient brake fluid in the reser- voir.

왘 Risk of accident! Carefully stop the

vehicle and notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. Do not add brake fluid! This will not solve the problem.

If you find that the brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum mark or below, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness and leaks.

Warning!

Driving with the brake warning lamp illumi- nated can result in an accident. Have your brake system checked immediately if the brake warning lamp stays on. Don’t add brake fluid before checking the brake sys- tem. Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the brake fluid catching fire. You can be seriously burned.

228

Practical hints What to do if …

Possible cause

Suggested solution

Problem É - The red brake warning lamp

lights up in addition to the yellow ABS malfunction lamp and you hear a warning sound.

There is a malfunction in the Electronic Brake Proportioning (EBP) system. The enhanced braking effect is not available.

: The yellow warning lamp blinks after starting the engine or while driving.

The engine oil level has sunk to the minimum level. If the engine oil level continues to sink, the warning lamp will light up.

_ The red indicator lamp does not go out after starting the engine. ‡ The green front fog lamp indica- tor lamp lights up when ignition is turned on.

The adjustable telescoping steering column is not properly locked. The front fog lamps are switched on.

왘 Have the system checked immediate-

ly at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of accidents. 왘 Add approved oil at the next gas sta-

tion (컄 page 286).

왘 If oil loss is visible on the engine, have the malfunction corrected as soon as possible at a Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

왘 Lock the adjustable steering column

(컄 page 37).

왘 Fog lamps (컄 page 105).

229

Practical hints What to do if …

Problem / The yellow coolant warning lamp lights up when the engine is run- ning.

Possible cause The coolant is to hot. The coolant level is too low.

If the warning lamp lights up frequently, there is a leak in the cooling system.

The coolant temperature gauge is above 248°F (120°C).

The coolant level is too low.

If the coolant level is correct, the electrical radiator fan may be broken.

Suggested solution 왘 Stop as soon as possible and allow the engine and coolant to cool down.

왘 Check the coolant level and add

coolant if necessary (컄 page 206).

왘 Have the cooling system checked by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

왘 Stop as soon as possible and allow the engine and coolant to cool down. 왘 Add coolant to prevent engine from

overheating (컄 page 206).

왘 If the coolant temperature is below the red zone, drive on to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. Avoid high engine loads (e.g. driving uphill) and stop-and-go driving.

230

! Do not ignore the coolant warning lamps. Extended driving with the sym- bol displayed may cause serious engine damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Do not drive without sufficient amount of coolant. The engine will overheat, causing major engine damage.

Warning!

Driving when your engine is badly overheat- ed can cause some fluids which may have leaked into the engine compartment to catch fire. You could be seriously burned.

Steam from an overheated engine can cause serious burns and can occur just by opening the engine hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it.

Turn off the engine, get out of the vehicle and do not stand near the vehicle until it cools down.

Warning!

Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which may burn if it comes into contact with hot engine parts. You can be seriously burned.

Practical hints What to do if …

231

Practical hints What to do if …

Problem ? The yellow “CHECK ENGINE”

malfunction indicator lamp comes on while driving.

7 The indicator lamp lights up.

232

Possible cause There is a malfunction of: ì•« The fuel management system ì•« The ignition system ì•« The emission control system ì•« Systems which affect emissions Such malfunctions may result in excessive emissions values and may switch the engine to its limp-home (emergency operation) mode.

The fuel cap is not closed tightly. Your fuel tank is empty.

Suggested solution 왘 Have the vehicle checked as soon as

possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. An on-board diagnostic connector is used by the service station to link the vehicle to the shop diagnostics sys- tem. It allows the accurate identifica- tion of system malfunctions through the readout of diagnostic trouble codes. It is located in the front left area of the footwell next to the park- ing brake pedal.

Check the fuel cap (컄 page 200). 왘 After refuelling start the engine three

or four times in succession.

The limp-home mode is canceled. You do not need to have your vehicle checked.

A BabySmartTM child seat is installed on the front passenger seat. The front passenger airbag is therefore switched off. The system is malfunctioning when there is no BabySmartTM child seat installed on the front passenger seat.

왘 Have the system checked as soon as

possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Problem 7 The indicator lamp does not light

up with a BabySmartTM child seat properly installed on the front passenger seat.

Possible cause The system is malfunctioning.

Practical hints What to do if …

Suggested solution 왘 Make sure that there is nothing be-

tween seat cushion and child seat and check installation of the child seat (컄 page 63).

왘 If the light remains out, have the sys- tem checked as soon as possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. Do not use the BabySmartTM restraint to transport children on the front pas- senger seat until the system has been repaired.

The yellow fuel tank reserve warning lamp lights up while driving.

# The red charge indicator lamp

lights up when the engine is run- ning.

The fuel level has gone below the reserve mark.

왘 Refuel at the next gas station

(컄 page 200).

The battery is no longer charging. Possible causes: ì•« alternator malfunctioning ì•« broken poly-V-belt

왘 Stop immediately and check the

poly-V-belt.

If it is broken 왘 Do not continue to drive, before the

poly-V-belt is replaced. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

233

Practical hints What to do if …

Problem < The red seat belt warning lamp

blinks for a brief period after starting the engine.

W The yellow low washer system fluid level lamp lights up after starting the engine or while driv- ing.

Possible cause The warning lamp reminds you to fasten seat belts.

Suggested solution 왘 Fasten your seat belt (컄 page 60).

There is approximately 1.3 US qt. (1.25 l) of washer fluid remaining in the reservoir.

왘 Add washer fluid (컄 page 208).

The washer fluid may have frozen

왘 Move the vehicle to a warmer environ-

ment so that the washer fluid will thaw.

왘 Correct the concentration level after

the washer fluid in the reservoir thaws.

왘 Have the system checked at an autho-

rized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

2 The yellow brake indicator lamp lights up during braking or after starting the engine.

The brake pads are worn down.

Brake pad thickness must be visually checked by a qualified technician at the intervals specified in the Service book- let.

234

Practical hints What to do if …

Additional indicators in the speedome- ter display

Display

´

Á î The StArt message lights up in addition to the Error message.

Possible cause Perform minor service (A) (컄 page 215).

Suggested solution 왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center to perform service.

Perform major service (B) (컄 page 215).

왘 Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center to perform service.

The immobilizer is not operational.

왘 Contact an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center or call 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (in the USA), or 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada).

235

Practical hints Where will I find ...? Where will I find ...? First aid kit

Check expiration dates and contents for completeness at least once a year and replace missing/expired items.

ML 320, ML 350, ML 500
The first aid kit is stored in the liftgate.

ML 55 AMG The first aid kit is stored inside the spare wheel cover located in the rear cargo com- partment.

1 Cargo area cover blind 2 Clamp 3 Cover 왘 Remove the cargo area cover blind 1

(컄 page 143).

왘 Open the clamps 2 and remove the

왘 Open and fold down panel 1.

The first aid kit can be removed.

cover 3.

236

1 Fixing strap 2 First aid kit 왘 Release the fixing strap 1.

The first aid kit 2 can be removed.

Vehicle tool kit

The vehicle tool kit is stored in the cargo area behind the right trim panel.

왘 Turn handles 1 90° in direction of ar-

rows.

왘 Fold down the panel 2.

Practical hints Where will I find ...?

1 Vehicle jack 2 Wheel bolt wrench 3 Screwdriver 4 Interchangeable slot Screwdriver 3 is placed inside the wheel- bolt wrench handle.

3 Screw 4 Vehicle jack with tool kit 왘 Turn screw 3 counterclockwise. 왘 Remove vehicle jack.

Vehicles with CD-changer* (컄 page 238).

The jack is exclusively designed for lifting the vehicle during a wheel change. Always lower the vehicle on sufficient capacity jackstands before working under the vehi- cle.

237

Practical hints Where will I find ...?

Vehicle jack Please also observe the safety guidelines in the “Flat tire” section (컄 page 255) when using the jack.

Make sure that the jack arm is fully seated in the jack take-up bracket. Always lower the vehicle onto sufficient capacity jack- stands before working under the vehicle.

Warning!

The jack is designed exclusively for jacking up the vehicle at the jack take-up brackets built into both sides of the vehicle. To help avoid personal injury, use the jack only to lift the vehicle during a wheel change. Never get beneath the vehicle while it is supported by the jack. Keep hands and feet away from the area under the lifted vehicle. Always firmly set parking brake and block wheels before raising vehicle with jack.

Do not disengage parking brake while the vehicle is raised. Be certain that the jack is always vertical (plumb line) when in use, es- pecially on hills. Always try to use the jack on level surface.

238

Vehicle with CD-changer* To access the vehicle tool kit, swing the CD-changer out of the panel.

1 Screw 2 CD-changer 왘 Turn screw 1 counterclockwise. 왘 Swing the CD-changer 2 out of the pan-

el.

Electric air pump (ML 55 AMG)

The electric air pump is located behind the spare wheel. 왘 Remove the spare wheel (컄 page 240).

1 Electric air pump 왘 Open the strap and remove the electric

air pump.

Spare wheel (space-saver tire)

Use the spare wheel only temporarily, while observing the following restrictions: ì•« Do not exceed vehicle speed of

50 mph (80 km/h).

ì•« Drive to the nearest repair facility to have the flat tire repaired or replaced as appropriate.

ì•« Do not operate vehicle with more than

one spare wheel mounted.

Warning!

The dimensions of the spare wheel are dif- ferent from those of the road wheels. As a result, the vehicle handling characteristics change when driving with a mounted spare wheel.

Please comply with the instructions for “Mounting the spare wheel” (컄 page 255).

Removing spare wheel (except ML 55 AMG)

Warning!

Exercise care when removing or installing spare wheel to prevent personal injury.

The spare wheel is located behind the rear bumper.

1 Cover 왘 Hold left and right side of cover 1 and

pull away from bumper.

Practical hints Where will I find ...?

2 Screw 3 Spare wheel carrier 4 Lever 왘 Turn screw 2 counterclockwise using

the wrench (컄 page 237). Screw 2 remains in spare wheel carrier 3.

왘 Lift spare wheel carrier slightly and

push lever 4 to the right using screw- driver (컄 page 237).

왘 Swing spare wheel carrier down and

pull it out from under the bumper.

239

Practical hints Where will I find ...?

5 Bayonet lock 왘 Turn the bayonet lock 90° to the left. 왘 Pull off bayonet lock 5. 왘 Remove the spare wheel cover and the

spare wheel.

왘 Store bayonet lock 5 and spare wheel

cover in cargo area.

왘 Replace the spare wheel carrier and se-

cure it in place.

왘 Fasten handle 1 to the bumper.

240

When storing the space-saver spare wheel in its holder, secure it using the bayonet lock.

Removing spare wheel with collapsible tire (ML 55 AMG) The spare wheel is located on the left side in the rear cargo compartment.

1 Cargo area cover blind 2 Clamp 3 Cover 왘 Remove the cargo area cover blind 1

(컄 page 143).

왘 Open the clamps 2 and remove the

cover 3.

컄컄

4 Wheel bolt 5 Spare wheel 왘 Unscrew the three wheel bolts using

the wrench (컄 page 237). 왘 Take out the spare wheel. 왘 Remove the electric air pump from its

holder (컄 page 238).

Practical hints Where will I find ...?

After using the spare wheel, have it de- flate at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. Store the deflated spare wheel in its holder and tighten the three wheel bolts with a tightening torque of 37 ft.lb. (50 Nm).

241

i Unlocking and opening the driver’s door with the mechanical key will trig- ger the anti-theft alarm system. To can- cel the alarm, do one of the following: 앫 Press button Œ or ‹ on the

remote control.

ì•« Insert the key in the steering lock.

Practical hints Unlocking/locking in an emergency Unlocking/locking in an emergency Unlocking the vehicle

Unlocking the driver’s door If you are unable to unlock the driver’s door using the remote control, open the door using the key.

3 Unlocking 4 Locking 왘 Remove the protective cap from the

door lock.

왘 Unlock the door with the mechanical

key. To do so, push the mechanical key in the lock until it stops and turn it to the left.

1 Release button 왘 Press release button 1 on the remote

control. The key folds out.

242

Practical hints Unlocking/locking in an emergency

Locking the vehicle

Changing batteries

If you are unable to lock the vehicle with the remote control, lock it with the me- chanical key as follows: 왘 Close the passenger doors and the lift-

gate.

왘 Press the upper part of the central

locking button in the cockpit (컄 page 89).

왘 Check to see whether the locking

knobs on the passenger doors are still visible. If necessary push them down manually.

왘 Lock the liftgate if necessary from in-

side (컄 page 87).

왘 Lock the driver’s door with the me-

chanical key.

If the batteries in the remote control are discharged, the vehicle can no longer be locked or unlocked. It is recommended to have the batteries replaced at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Warning!

Keep the batteries out of reach of children.

If a battery is swallowed, seek medical help immediately.

Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Recycling of batteries is the preferred method of disposal. Many states require sellers of batteries to accept old batteries for recycling.

When changing batteries, always re- place both batteries. The required replacement batteries are available at any Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

1 Release button 2 Battery cover Replacement batteries: Lithium, type CR 2025 or equivalent. 왘 Unfold the key by pressing release

button 1.

컄컄

243

Practical hints Unlocking/locking in an emergency

왘 Pull off battery cover 2 in direction of

arrow.

왘 Remove the batteries.

왘 Using a lint-free cloth, insert new bat- teries under the contact spring with the plus (+) side facing up.

왘 Press battery cover onto housing until

locked in place.

왘 Push each button to assure proper op-

eration of the remote control. If remote control does not function cor- rectly after replacing the batteries, the system may have to be resynchronized.

244

Synchronizing remote control 왘 Turn key in steering lock to position 2,

then to position 0 and remove.

왘 Within 10 seconds, push and hold

button ‹ while pushing button Œ five times.

왘 Release the button, and press ‹,

Œ or Š once. The remote control is resynchronized. 왘 Recheck all of the remote control func-

tions.

If it is not possible to resynchronize the remote control, have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Fuel filler flap

1 Cover 2 Lock rod 왘 Open cover 1 in cargo area behind the

left trim panel.

ML 55 AMG: First remove the spare wheel from its holder (컄 page 240).

왘 Turn lock rod 2 clockwise (arrow) to

the end stop.

왘 Open the fuel filler flap.

Practical hints Unlocking/locking in an emergency

Manually unlocking the transmission selector lever

In the case of power failure the transmis- sion selector lever can be manually un- locked, e.g. to tow the vehicle.

왘 Insert a pin 1, e.g. pencil, into the cov- ered opening below the position D of the shift pattern.

왘 Push the pin down. 왘 Move selector lever from position P. 왘 Remove the pin from the opening.

The cover returns to its closed position after moving the selector lever to position D.

The selector lever is locked again when moving it to position P.

1 Pencil

245

Practical hints Opening/closing in an emergency Opening/closing in an emergency Sliding/pop-up roof*

The sliding/pop-up roof drive is located behind the cover between the front interior lamps. You can open or close the sliding/pop-up roof manually should an electrical malfunc- tion occur.

1 Hexagon drive hole 2 Crank 3 Cover

246

왘 Pry off cover 3 using a flat blade srew-

driver.

왘 Obtain crank 2 (supplied with vehicle)

and insert in hexagon drive 1

Push crank 2 upward while turning it, to disengage the electric motor.

왘 Turn crank 2 clockwise to:

ì•« slide roof closed ì•« raise roof at the rear

왘 Turn crank 2 counterclockwise to:

ì•« slide roof open ì•« lower roof at the rear

The sliding/pop-up roof must be synchro- nized if it has been operated manually (컄 page 138).

Bulbs

Replacing bulbs Safe vehicle operation depends on proper exterior lighting and signaling. It is there- fore essential that all bulbs and lamp as- semblies are in good working order at all times. Correct headlamp adjustment is extremely important. Have headlamps checked and readjusted at regular intervals and when a bulb has been replaced. See your autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center for headlamp adjustment.

If the headlamps are fogged up on the inside as a result of high humidity, driv- ing the vehicle a distance should clear out the fogging.

Practical hints Replacing bulbs

Type H8 35 W H7 (55 W) H7 (55 W) Xenon* D2S-35 W 1157 NA (32/3 cp bulb)

Front lamps

Lamp

1 Fog lamp 2 High beam 3 Low beam

4 Turn signal,

parking, stand- ing and side marker lamp

5 Additional turn

LED

signal

247

Practical hints Replacing bulbs

Rear lamps

Notes on bulb replacement

Type 1073
(32 cp bulb) 1073
(32 cp bulb) PY 21 W P 21/4 W

Lamp

6 Brake lamp

7 Backup lamp

8 Turn signal lamp 9 Tail, parking and

standing lamp Rear fog lamp, driv- er’s side

10 Side marker lamp 11 High mounted brake

lamp

W 5 W 1073
(32 cp bulb)

12 License plate lamps C 5 W

Warning!

Keep bulbs out of reach of children.

Bulbs and bulb sockets can be very hot. Al- low the lamp to cool down before changing a bulb.

Halogen lamps contain pressurized gas. A bulb can explode if you: ì•« touch or move it when hot ì•« drop the bulb ì•« scratch the bulb Wear eye and hand protection.

Because of high voltage in xenon lamps, it is dangerous to replace the bulb or repair the lamp and its components. We recommend that you have such work done by a qualified technician.

ì•« Use only 12-volt bulbs of the same type

and with the specified watt rating.

ì•« Switch lights off before changing a bulb

to prevent short circuits.

ì•« Always use a clean lint-free cloth when

handling bulbs.

ì•« Your hands should be dry and free of oil

and grease.

ì•« If the newly installed bulb does not light up, visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

ì•« Have the LEDs and bulbs for the follow-

ing lamps replaced by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center: ì•« Additional turn signals in the exteri-

or rear view mirrors

ì•« Bi-Xenon lamps* ì•« Front fog lamps (vehicles with sport

package)*

248

Replacing bulbs for front lamps

Replacing low beam bulbs

2 Electrical connector

Bi-Xenon* headlamp

1 Low beam halogen or Bi-Xenon* head-

lamp cover with locking tab

Warning!

Do not remove the cover 1 for the Bi-Xenon headlamp. Because of high voltage in xenon lamps, it is dangerous to replace the bulb or repair the lamp and its components. We rec- ommend that you have such work done by a qualified technician.

Practical hints Replacing bulbs

Halogen headlamp 왘 Switch off the lights. 왘 Open the hood (컄 page 202). 왘 Push down tab at top end of cover 1

and remove.

왘 Pull electrical connector 2 off. 왘 Unclip the retainer springs and take out

the bulb.

왘 Insert the new bulb so that the base lo-

cates in the recess on the holder.

왘 Clip the retainer springs. 왘 Plug the connector 2 onto the bulb. 왘 Align headlamp cover and click into

place.

249

Practical hints Replacing bulbs

High beam bulbs

Turn signal, parking, standing and side marker lamp bulbs

1 High beam headlamp cover with lock-

ing tab

왘 Switch off the lights. 왘 Open the hood (컄 page 202). 왘 Twist cover 1 counterclockwise and re-

move.

2 Electrical connector 왘 Pull electrical connector 2 off. 왘 Unclip the retainer springs and take out

the bulb.

왘 Insert the new bulb so that the base lo-

cates in the recess on the holder.

왘 Clip the retainer springs. 왘 Plug the connector 2 onto the bulb. 왘 Align headlamp cover and click into

place.

1 Bulb socket 왘 Switch off the lights. 왘 Open the hood (컄 page 202). 왘 Twist bulb socket 1 counterclockwise

and pull out.

왘 Push bulb into socket, turn counter-

clockwise and remove.

왘 Insert new bulb in socket, push in and

twist clockwise.

왘 Reinstall the bulb socket.

컄컄

250

Practical hints Replacing bulbs

왘 Align headlamp cover and click into

Replacing bulbs for rear lamps

place.

Fog lamp bulbs

Tail lamp assemblies 왘 Switch off the lights. 왘 Open liftgate.

1 Fog lamp 왘 Switch off the lights. 왘 Use a suitable object (e.g. screwdriver) to press on the release lever behind the front panel. Front fog lamp 1 releases.

왘 Remove fog lamp out of bumper.

2 Bulb socket 3 Tabs 왘 Twist bulb socket 2 counterclockwise

to its end stop and pull out.

왘 Pull bulb out of the bulb socket. 왘 Insert new bulb in socket. 왘 Reinstall bulb socket 2. 왘 Twist bulb socket 2 clockwise to its

end stop.

왘 Reinstall fog lamp into the bumper.

Make sure that tabs 3 firmly seat into the slots of holder.

1 Screws 2 Tail, parking and standing lamp

Fog lamp, driver’s side

3 Side marker lamp 4 Turn signal lamp 5 Backup lamp 6 Brake lamp 왘 Remove screws 1. 왘 Remove tail lamp.

컄컄

251

Practical hints Replacing bulbs

License plate lamp

High mounted brake lamp

7 Tabs 왘 Squeeze tabs 7 together and remove

bulb holder.

왘 Gently push bulb into socket, turn

counterclockwise and remove.

왘 Insert new bulb in socket, push in and

turn clockwise.

왘 Reinstall bulb holder. You should hear

it engage.

왘 Insert the tail lamp in the body, lower edge first. Make sure that it engages.

왘 Retighten screws with washers on

them.

252

1 License plate lamp 2 Screws 왘 Switch off the lights. 왘 Loosen both screws 1 and remove

lamp.

1 Cover 2 Tab 왘 Switch off the lights. 왘 Squeeze both sides of cover 1, fold it

forward and remove.

왘 Replace the tubular lamp and reinstall

왘 Press tab 2 on reflector and remove re-

lamp.

왘 Retighten the screws.

flector.

왘 Gently push bulb into socket, turn

counterclockwise and remove.

왘 Insert new bulb in socket, push in and

turn clockwise.

컄컄

왘 Insert reflector from the left so that it

engages on the right.

왘 Position tabs of cover in slots and rein-

stall cover until properly seated.

Adjusting headlamp aim

Correct headlamp adjustment is extremely important. To check and readjust a head- lamp, follow the steps described: 왘 Park the vehicle on a level surface 25 feet (7.6 m) from a vertical test screen or wall.

왘 Switch the headlamps on

(컄 page 102).

If the beam does not show a beam pattern as indicated in the figure left, then follow the steps below: 왘 Open hood (컄 page 202).

Practical hints Replacing bulbs

왘 Always turn adjustment screws 2

and 3 simultaneously for vertical ad- justment until the headlamp is adjust- ed as shown 1. Turn clockwise for upward movement and counterclock- wise for downward movement. Graduations: screw 2: 0.50° pitch screw 3: 0.67° pitch

The left and right headlamps must be ad- justed individually.

If it is not possible to obtain a proper headlamp adjustment, have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

V Vertical centerline H Headlamp mounting high, measured

from the center

High beam adjustments simultaneous- ly aim the low beam. Vehicle should have a normal trunk load.

2 Headlamp vertical adjustment screw 3 Headlamp vertical adjustment screw

253

Practical hints Replacing wiper blades Replacing wiper blades

Warning!

For safety reasons, remove key from steer- ing lock before replacing a wiper blade, oth- erwise the motor could suddenly turn on and cause injury.

254

Removal

Installation

왘 Fold the wiper arm forward. 왘 Turn wiper blade at a right angle to wip-

왘 Slide wiper blade into end of wiper arm

until it locks in place.

er arm.

1 Wiper blade 2 Safety tab 왘 Press safety tab down 2. 왘 Push wiper blade downward 1 and re-

move.

Never open the hood when the wiper arm is folded forward. Do not allow the wiper arms to contact the windshield glass without a wiper blade inserted. Make certain that the wiper blades are properly installed. Improperly installed wiper blades may cause windshield damage. For your convenience, we recommend that you have this work carried out by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Practical hints Flat tire

Preparing the vehicle 왘 Park the vehicle as far as possible from

moving traffic on a hard surface.

왘 Turn on the hazard warning flashers. 왘 Engage the steering wheel lock in the

straight ahead position and set the parking brake.

왘 Move the selector lever to P. 왘 Have any passenger exit the vehicle at

a safe distance from the roadway.

왘 Take the spare wheel out of its carrier

(컄 page 239). ML 55 AMG: (컄 page 240).

Lifting the vehicle 왘 Prevent the vehicle from rolling away by blocking wheels with wheel chocks (not included) or other sizable objects. When changing wheel on a level surface: 왘 Place one chock in front of and one be- hind the wheel that is diagonally oppo- site to the wheel being changed.

When changing wheel on a hill: 왘 Place chocks on the downhill side

blocking both wheels of the other axle. 왘 Take the two-piece wheel wrench and the jack out of the rear compartment area (컄 page 237). Assemble wheel wrench.

Flat tire Mounting the spare wheel

Warning!

The dimensions of the spare wheel are dif- ferent from those of the road wheels. As a result, the vehicle handling characteristics change when driving with a mounted spare wheel. Adapt your driving style accordingly.

The spare wheel is for temporary use only. When driving with spare wheel mounted, en- sure proper tire pressure and do not exceed vehicle speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).

Drive to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center as soon as possible to have the spare wheel replaced with a regular road wheel.

Never operate the vehicle with more than one spare wheel mounted.

255

Practical hints Flat tire

Warning!

The jack is designed exclusively for jacking up the vehicle at the jack take-up brackets built into both sides of the vehicle. To help avoid personal injury, use the jack only to lift the vehicle during a wheel change. Never get beneath the vehicle while it is supported by the jack. Keep hands and feet away from the area under the lifted vehicle. Always firmly set parking brake and block wheels before raising vehicle with jack.

Do not disengage parking brake while the vehicle is raised. Be certain that the jack is always vertical (plumb line) when in use, es- pecially on hills. Always try to use the jack on level surface. Make sure that the jack arm is fully seated in the jack take-up brack- et. Always lower the vehicle onto sufficient capacity jackstands before working under the vehicle.

256

왘 On wheel to be changed, loosen but do

not yet remove the wheel bolts (ap- proximately one full turn with wrench).

The jack take-up brackets are located di- rectly behind the front wheel housings and in front of the rear wheel housings.

Do not position the jack on the body of the vehicle, as this may cause damage to the vehicle.

1 Take-up bracket 2 Jack 왘 Place jack on firm ground. 왘 Position jack 2 under the take-up

bracket 1 so that it is always vertical (plumb-line) as seen from the side, even if the vehicle is parked on an in- cline.

왘 Jack up the vehicle until the wheel is a

maximum of 1.2 in (3 cm) from the ground. Never start engine while vehi- cle is raised.

Practical hints Flat tire

Warning!

Warning!

ML 55 AMG: Inflate the spare wheel with collapsible tire only after the wheel is properly mounted.

Inflate the spare wheel tire using the electric air pump (컄 page 259) before lowering the vehicle.

To avoid paint damage, place wheel flat against hub and hold it there while in- stalling first wheel bolt.

Always replace wheel bolts that are dam- aged or rusted.

Never apply oil or grease to wheel bolts.

Damaged wheel hub threads should be re- paired immediately. Do not continue to drive under these circumstances! Contact an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center or call Roadside Assistance.

Incorrect mounting bolts or improperly tightened mounting bolts can cause the wheel to come off. This could cause an acci- dent. Be sure to use the correct mounting bolts.

Removing the wheel 왘 Unscrew and remove all wheel bolts. 왘 Remove the remaining bolts.

Do not place wheel bolts in sand or dirt. This could result in damage to the bolt and wheel hub threads.

왘 Grip the wheel from the sides and re-

move it.

Mounting the new wheel 왘 Clean contact surfaces of wheel and

wheel hub.

왘 Install spare wheel on wheel hub. 왘 Insert wheel bolts and tighten them

slightly.

왘 ML 55 AMG:

Inflate the spare wheel with collapsible tire using the electric air pump (컄 page 259).

257

Practical hints Flat tire

Warning!

Use only genuine equipment Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts. They are identi- fied by the Mercedes star. Other wheel bolts may come loose.

Do not tighten the wheel bolts when the ve- hicle is raised. Otherwise the vehicle could tip over.

Lowering the vehicle 왘 Lower vehicle by turning crank coun-

terclockwise until vehicle is resting ful- ly on its own weight.

왘 Remove the jack.

258

Warning!

Have the tightening torque checked after changing a wheel. The wheels could come loose if they are not tightened to a torque of 110 ft lb (150 Nm).

왘 Store jack and tool kit.

The removed road wheel cannot be stored in the spare wheel carrier or in- side the storage compartment in the rear cargo area (ML 55 AMG), but should be transported in the rear cargo compartment wrapped in a protective cover supplied with the vehicle. The protective cover is located in the rear cargo compartment behind the cover in the right side trim panel.

1 - 5 Wheel bolts 왘 Tighten the five wheel bolts evenly, fol- lowing the diagonal sequence illustrat- ed (1 to 5), until all bolts are tight. Observe a tightening torque of 110 ft lb (150 Nm).

Inflating the spare wheel with collapsible tire 왘 Take the electric air pump out of the

rear cargo compartment (컄 page 238).

Warning!

Observe instructions on air pump label.

1 Union nut 2 Electrical plug 3 Air hose with pressure gauge 4 Vent screw

왘 Open flap on air pump. 왘 Pull out electrical plug 2 and air hose

with the pressure gauge 3.

왘 Close the vent screw 4. 왘 Remove the valve cap from the spare

wheel tire valve.

왘 Screw the union nut 1 with air hose 3

on to the tire valve.

왘 Insert electrical plug 2 into the electri- cal outlet in the front passenger foot- well or rear cargo compartment (컄 page 158).

왘 Start the engine. 왘 Switch on the air pump. 왘 Operate air pump until the pressure

gauge displays 61 psi (4.2 bar) This takes about eight minutes for the collapsible tire. The air hose 3 and the union nut 1 can become hot during in- flation. Please exercise appropriate caution.

Practical hints Flat tire

Do not operate the electric air pump longer than eight minutes without in- terruption. Otherwise it may overheat. You may operate the air pump again af- ter it has cooled off.

왘 Switch off the air pump. 왘 Turn off the engine. 왘 If the tire pressure is above 61 psi

(4.2 bar), release excess tire pressure using the vent screw 4.

259

왘 Detach the electric air pump. 왘 Reinstall tire valve cap. 왘 Store the electrical plug and the air

hose behind the flap and place the air pump back in the rear cargo compart- ment.

Practical hints Flat tire

Warning!

Follow recommended inflation pressures.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can result in sudden deflation (blowout) be- cause they are more likely to become punc- tured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified vehicle capacity weight (as indicat- ed by the label on the driver’s door latch post). Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout.

260

Battery The battery is located in the engine com- partment on the right-hand side.

Warning!

Failure to follow these instructions can re- sult in severe injury or death.

Never lean over batteries while connecting, you might get injured.

Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow this fluid to come in contact with eyes, skin or clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with water and seek medical help if necessary.

A battery will also produce hydrogen gas, which is flammable and explosive. Keep flames or sparks away from battery, avoid improper connection of jumper cables, smoking etc.

Never loosen or detach battery termi- nal clamps while the engine is running or the key is in the steering lock. Other- wise the alternator and other electronic components could be severely dam- aged. Have the battery checked regularly by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. Refer to Service Booklet for mainte- nance intervals or contact your autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center for further information.

Warning!

Do not place metal objects on the battery as this could result in a short circuit.

Use leak-proof battery only to avoid the risk of acid burns in the event of an accident.

Practical hints Battery

Warning!

With a disconnected battery ì•« you will no longer be able to turn the key

in the steering lock

ì•« the selector lever will remain locked in

position P

Disconnecting the battery

왘 Turn off all electrical consumers. 왘 Open the hood (컄 page 202). 왘 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 왘 Remove the cover from the positive ter-

minal.

왘 Disconnect the battery positive lead.

261

Practical hints Battery

Removing the batteries

Reconnecting the batteries

왘 Remove the screw securing the bat-

tery.

왘 Remove the battery support and brack-

et. Take out the battery.

왘 Turn off all electrical consumers. 왘 Connect the positive lead and fasten its

cover.

왘 Connect the negative lead.

Never invert the terminal connections!

The battery, its filler caps and the vent tube must always be securely installed when the vehicle is in operation.

Charging and reinstalling batteries

왘 Charge battery in accordance with the

instructions of the battery charger manufacturer.