2007 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

앫 Drive next to the ruts rather than

through them if at all possible.

앫 If the ruts are too deep to drive in, drive

with one side of the vehicle on the grassy center strip if the route permits.

Returning from off-road driving

Warning!

If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that possi- ble damage to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on the hazard warning flash- ers, carefully slow down, and drive with cau- tion to an area which is a safe distance from the roadway.

Inspect the tires and under the vehicle for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires ap- pear unsafe, have it towed to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center or tire dealer for repairs.

Damage to the vehicle may influence driving comfort and pose the risk of accident to you and other drivers.

Operation Driving instructions

Off-road driving increases strain on the vehicle. We recommend that you inspect the vehi- cle for possible damage after each off-road trip. Recognizing any damage and a subse- quent timely repair reduces the chance of a possible breakdown or accident later on. Proceed as follows: 앫 Switch off the off-road driving program

(컄 page 268).

앫 Switch off the DSR (컄 page 265). 앫 Vehicles with air suspension package*:

Lower the vehicle back to a level suitable for road conditions, e.g. High- way/High-speed level (컄 page 270).

앫 Clean all exterior lamps and check for

possible damage.

앫 Clean the front and rear license plate.

341

Operation Driving instructions

앫 Remove excessive dirt from tires,

Trailer towing

Warning!

Failure to use proper equipment and driving technique can result in a loss of vehicle con- trol when towing a trailer.

Improper towing or failure to follow the in- structions in this manual can result in vehi- cle damage and/or serious personal injury. Follow the guidelines below carefully to as- sure safe trailer operation.

Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center should you require an explana- tion of information contained in this manual.

wheels, wheel housings, and under- body. For instance, after driving in mud, clean the radiator, chassis, engine, brakes, and wheels from extreme dirt using a strong jet of water.

앫 Check tires for possible damage. 앫 Inspect vehicle underbody, oil pan,

brake hoses, etc., as well as vehicle un- derbody for possible damage.

앫 Check for brush or branches caught in

the underbody.

! Brush or branches could increase the possi- bility of a fire, as well as cut fuel and/or brake lines, puncture rubber bellows of the axles or drive shafts. 앫 After continued operation in mud,

sand, water or other dirty conditions clean the brake discs, wheels, brake pads and check and clean axle joints.

앫 Conduct a brake test.

342

Trailer hitch* 앫 Only install a trailer hitch receiver ap-

proved for your vehicle. For information on availability and in- stallation, see an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

앫 The bumpers on your vehicle are not

designed for use with clamp-type hitch- es. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to them.

앫 To reduce the possibility of damage, re-

move the hitch ball adaptor from the receiver when not in use.

Electrical connections The vehicle is prewired to accept the seven-wire harness included in the Mercedes-Benz approved trailer hitch receiver kit.

i A four-pole conversion plug is available from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center as a spare part.

For further information, see an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Vehicle and trailer weights and ratings Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum permissible vehicle weight: ML 350, ML 500, ML 320 CDI: 6239 lbs (2830 kg) ML 63 AMG: 6393 lbs (2900 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): Comprises weight of vehicle including fuel, tools, spare wheel, installed accessories, passengers, cargo and trailer tongue. It must never exceed the GVWR.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the maximum permissible axle weight:

ML 350, ML 320 CDI

ML 500 ML 63

AMG

Front 2943 lbs (1335 kg) 3296 lbs (1495 kg)

Rear

2987 lbs (1355 kg) 3252 lbs (1475 kg)

3175 lbs (1440 kg) 3527 lbs (1600 kg)

The Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) is the weight of the trailer plus the weight of all cargo, equipment, luggage etc. loaded on the trailer. The maximum permissible gross trailer weight to be towed: 4982 lbs (2260 kg) Trailer Tongue Weight Rating (TWR) is the maximum permissible weight on the trailer tongue: 496 lbs (225 kg) limit for Mercedes-Benz approved hitch receiver.

Operation Driving instructions

Loading a trailer 앫 When loading a trailer, you should ob- serve that neither the permissible GTW, nor the GVWR are exceeded. Maximum permissible values are listed on the safety compliance certification labels for the vehicle and for the trailer to be towed. The lowest value listed must be select- ed when determining how the vehicle and trailer are loaded.

앫 The tongue weight at the hitch ball

must be added to the GVW to prevent exceeding your Mercedes-Benz tow vehicle’s rear GAWR.

i We recommend loading the trailer in such a manner that it has a Tongue Weight (TW) between 10% and 15% of the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW).

i Maximum trailer ratings are calculated as- suming a base vehicle, plus any options neces- sary to achieve the rating, plus driver. The weight of other equipment, passengers and cargo will reduce the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow.

343

Operation Driving instructions

Checking weights of vehicle and trailer 앫 To assure that the tow vehicle and trail- er are in compliance with the maximum permissible weight limits have the load- ed rig (tow vehicle including driver, pas- sengers and cargo, trailer fully loaded) weighed on a commercial scale.

앫 Check the vehicle’s front and rear

Gross Axle Weight (GAW), the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and Tongue Weight (TW). The values as measures must not exceed the weight limits listed under “Vehicle and trailer weight and ratings” (컄 page 343).

Attaching a trailer

Warning!

While you are coupling or decoupling a trail- er, make sure that you do not 앫 lock or unlock 앫 open or close a vehicle door or the tailgate. The vehicle’s level could change and you could endanger yourself and/or others as a result.

Make sure that you do not operate the ADS button* (컄 page 269) or the vehicle level control system* (컄 page 270) when cou- pling/decoupling the trailer.

Observe maximum permitted trailer dimensions (width and length). Most states and all Canadian provinces require 앫 safety chains between your tow vehicle

and the trailer. The chains should be criss-crossed under the trailer tongue. They must be attached to the hitch receiver, and not to the vehicle’s bumper or axle. Make sure to leave enough slack in the chains to permit turning corners.

앫 a separate brake system at various

trailer weights.

앫 a break-away switch on trailers with a

separate brake system. Check with your local state laws for specific requirements. The switch activates the trailer brakes in the possible event that the trailer might separate from the tow vehicle.

344

! Do not connect a trailer brake system (if trailer is so equipped) directly to the vehicle’s hydraulic brake system, as your vehicle is equipped with antilock brakes. If you do, neither the vehicle’s brakes nor the trailer’s brakes will function properly.

i The provided vehicle electrical wiring harness for trailer towing has a brake signal wire for hook-up to a brake controller. You should consider using a trailer sway control system. For further information, see an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. 왘 Make sure the automatic transmission

is set to P (컄 page 187).

왘 Set the parking brake for the vehicle

(컄 page 65).

왘 Start the engine (컄 page 54). 왘 Vehicles with air suspension package*:

Set the vehicle level to Highway (컄 page 270).

왘 Vehicles with air suspension package*:

Set the ADS* to AUTO or COMFORT (컄 page 269).

왘 Turn off the engine (컄 page 66). 왘 Close all doors and the tailgate. 왘 Attach the trailer. 왘 Plug in all electrical connectors.

i Vehicles with air suspension package*: When you are towing a trailer, the vehicle level always remains in the Highway setting. The following applies additionally when towing a trailer: 앫 The vehicle is lowered to the highway level when it reaches a speed of 5 mph (8 km/h) if not set to highway level.

앫 The high-speed level is not available. The restrictions that apply to towing also apply when using accessories that are connected to the trailer power socket, such as a bicycle rack.

Operation Driving instructions

Towing a trailer There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailer towing. Make sure your rig will be le- gal, not only for where you reside, but also for where you will be driving. A good source for this information can be the po- lice or local authorities. Note the following points, when driving with the trailer: 앫 In order to gain skill and an under-

standing of the vehicle’s behavior, you should practice turning, stopping and backing up in an area which is free from traffic.

앫 Before you start driving check the

앫 trailer hitch 앫 break-away switch 앫 safety chains 앫 electrical connections 앫 lighting and tires

345

Operation Driving instructions

앫 Adjust the mirrors (컄 page 49) to

permit unobstructed view beyond rear of trailer.

앫 If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving slowly, and then apply only the trailer brake controller by hand to make sure the brakes are working properly.

앫 Always secure items in the trailer to

prevent load shifts while driving.

앫 When towing a trailer, check occasion-

ally to make sure the load is secure, and that lighting and trailer brakes (if so equipped) are functioning properly. 앫 Take into consideration that when tow- ing a trailer, the handling characteris- tics are different and less stable from those when operating the vehicle with- out a trailer. It is important to avoid sudden maneu- vers.

앫 The vehicle and trailer combination is heavier, and therefore is limited in ac- celeration and climbing ability, and re- quires longer stopping distances. It is more prone to reacting to cross wind gusts, and requires more sensi- tive steering input.

앫 If possible, do not brake abruptly, but rather engage the brake slightly at first to permit the trailer to activate its brake. Then increase the braking force.

! If the trailer should begin to sway, reduce the vehicle’s speed immediately. In no case attempt to straighten out the tow vehicle and trailer by increasing the speed. 앫 If the transmission repeatedly shifts between gears on inclines, manually shift to a lower gear (select 4, 3, 2 or 1) (컄 page 193). A lower gear and reduction of speed re- duces the chance of engine overload- ing and/or overheating.

앫 On very steep inclines, not manageable

with automatic transmission in 1, switch on off-road driving program (컄 page 268).

앫 When going down a long hill, shift into a lower gear and use the engine’s brak- ing effect. Avoid riding the brakes, thus overheat- ing the vehicle and trailer brakes.

앫 If the engine coolant rises to an ex-

tremely high temperature (coolant tem- perature needle approaching the red zone) when the air conditioning is on, turn off the air conditioning system. Engine coolant heat can be additionally vented by opening the windows, switching the climate control fan speed to high and setting the temperature control to the maximum hot position.

346

앫 Extreme care must be exercised since your vehicle with a trailer will require additional passing distance ahead than when driving without a trailer. Because your vehicle and trailer is longer than your vehicle alone, you will also need to go much farther ahead of the passed vehicle before you can re- turn to your lane.

Operation Driving instructions

Uncoupling the trailer

Warning!

왘 Start the engine (컄 page 54). 왘 Close all doors and the tailgate. 왘 Set the parking brake for the trailer.

Vehicles with air suspension package*:

While you are coupling or decoupling a trail- er, make sure that you do not 앫 lock or unlock 앫 open or close a vehicle door or the tailgate. The vehicle’s level could change and you could endanger yourself and/or others as a result.

Make sure that you do not operate the ADS button* (컄 page 269) or the vehicle level control system* (컄 page 270) when cou- pling/decoupling the trailer.

왘 Make sure the automatic transmission

is set to P (컄 page 187).

왘 Set the parking brake for the vehicle

(컄 page 65).

Warning!

Vehicles with air suspension package*:

As soon as you disconnect the electrical connection between the trailer and the vehicle, the vehicle will lower. To help avoid personal injury, make sure no one is near the wheel housing or underneath the vehicle before the electrical connection is discon- nected.

When you uncouple the trailer, the vehicle is temporarily raised because the springs are relieved of load. Be especially careful during this process, as you could otherwise injure yourself and/or others. Make sure that any persons remaining in the vehicle do not press the switches for vehicle level control or the ADS*.

347

Operation Driving instructions

왘 Disconnect all electrical plug connec-

tors.

왘 Uncouple the trailer. 왘 Make sure that the trailer coupling is

free of load.

왘 Turn off the engine (컄 page 66).

Passenger compartment

The rear cargo compartment is the preferred place to carry objects. Always use tie down rings, and if so equipped, always use parti- tion net* when transporting cargo. The par- tition net* cannot secure hard or heavy objects. Always fasten items being carried as securely as possible using the cargo tie-down rings in the cargo floor area and fastening materials.

Warning!

Driving abroad

Always fasten items being carried as secure- ly as possible.

In an accident, during hard braking or sud- den maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle, and cause injury to vehicle occupants unless the items are securely fastened in the vehicle.

Abroad, there is an extensive Mercedes-Benz service network at your disposal. If you plan to drive into areas which are not listed in the index of your Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center directory, you should request pertinent information from an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Control and operation of radio transmitters

COMAND system, radio and telephone*

Warning!

Do not forget that your primary responsibili- ty is to drive the vehicle. Only operate the COMAND system, radio or telephone1 if road, weather and traffic conditions permit.

Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of 44 feet (approximate- ly 14 m) every second.

1 Observe all legal requirements.

348

Telephones and two-way radios

Catalytic converter (gasoline engine)

Warning!

Never operate radio transmitters equipped with a built-in or attached antenna (i.e. with- out being connected to an external antenna) from inside the vehicle while the engine is running. Doing so could lead to a malfunc- tion of the vehicle’s electronic system, possibly resulting in an accident and/or personal injury.

Radio transmitters, such as a portable telephone or a citizens band unit should only be used inside the vehicle if they are connected to an antenna that is installed on the outside of the vehicle. Refer to the radio transmitter operation instructions regarding use of an external antenna.

Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with monolithic-type catalytic converters, an important element in conjunction with the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial con- trol of the pollutants in the exhaust emis- sions. Keep your vehicle in proper operating condition by following our rec- ommended maintenance instructions as outlined in your Maintenance Booklet.

! To prevent damage to the catalytic convert- ers, use only premium unleaded gasoline in this vehicle. Any noticeable irregularities in engine operation should be repaired promptly. Otherwise, exces- sive unburned fuel may reach the catalytic con- verter, causing it to overheat and potentially start a fire.

Operation Driving instructions

Warning!

As with any vehicle, do not idle, park or op- erate this vehicle in areas where combusti- ble materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

Oxidation catalyst (diesel engine)

Your vehicle is equipped with an oxidation catalyst, an important element in conjunc- tion with the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial control of the pollutants in the exhaust emissions. Keep your vehicle in proper operating condition by following our recommended maintenance instruc- tions as outlined in your Maintenance Booklet.

349

Coolant temperature

During severe operating conditions, e.g. stop-and-go traffic, the coolant tem- perature may rise close to approximately 248°F (120°C). The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature above 248°F (120°C). Doing so may cause serious en- gine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Operation Driving instructions

Warning!

As with any vehicle, do not idle, park or op- erate this vehicle in areas where combusti- ble materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

Emission control

Certain engine systems serve to keep the toxic components of the exhaust gases within permissible limits required by law. These systems, of course, will function properly only when maintained strictly ac- cording to factory specifications. Any ad- justments on the engine should, therefore, be carried out only by qualified Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center autho- rized technicians.

Engine adjustments should not be altered in any way. Moreover, the specified service jobs must be carried out regularly accord- ing to Mercedes-Benz servicing require- ments. For details refer to the Maintenance Booklet.

Warning!

Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause un- consciousness and possible death.

Do not run the engine in confined areas (such as a garage) which are not properly ventilated. If you think that exhaust gas fumes are entering the vehicle while driving, have the cause determined and corrected immediately. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with at least one win- dow fully open at all times.

350

Warning!

앫 Driving when your engine is overheated can cause some fluids, which may have leaked into the engine compartment to catch fire. You could be seriously burned.

앫 Steam from an overheated engine can cause serious burns which 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 the engine has cooled down.

Operation Driving instructions

351

Operation At the gas station

Refueling

Warning!

Gasoline and diesel fuels are highly flamma- ble and poisonous. They burn violently and can cause serious injury.

Never allow sparks, flame or smoking mate- rials near gasoline or diesel fuel!

Turn off the engine before refueling.

Whenever you are around gasoline or diesel fuel, avoid inhaling fumes and skin or cloth- ing contact, extinguish all smoking materi- als.

Direct skin contact with gasoline or diesel fuels and the inhalation of gasoline or diesel fuel vapors can damage your health.

352

Warning!

Do not fill diesel tanks with gasoline. Do not mix diesel fuel with gasoline. Otherwise the fuel system and engine could be damaged. In addition, the vehicle could catch fire.

! Damage resulting from mixing gasoline with diesel is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

The fuel filler flap is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle towards the rear. Locking/unlocking the vehicle with the SmartKey or the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* automatically locks/unlocks the fuel filler flap.

! Diesel engine: When filling the diesel fuel tank using fuel containers, place a filling filter, a suede cloth or a clean flannel cloth as a filter. Otherwise, particles from the fuel container could clog the fuel lines and/or the diesel injec- tion system.

왘 Turn off the engine

앫 by turning the SmartKey to

position 0 (컄 page 40). Remove the SmartKey from the starter switch.

앫 by pressing the KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button (컄 page 41). Open the driver’s door (with the driver’s door open, starter switch is now in position 0, same as SmartKey removed from starter switch).

왘 Briefly push on fuel filler flap at the po-

sition indicated by the arrow. The fuel filler flap opens slightly.

Operation At the gas station

왘 Open the fuel filler flap completely. 왘 Turn the fuel cap to the left and hold on to it until possible pressure is released.

왘 Replace the fuel cap by turning it clockwise until it audibly engages.

왘 Close the fuel filler flap.

왘 Take off the fuel cap.

You should hear the latch close shut.

! The fuel filler cap is tethered to the fuel filler neck. Do not drop the cap. It could damage the vehicle paint finish. 왘 To prevent fuel vapors from escaping into open air, fully insert filler nozzle unit.

왘 Only fill your tank until the filler nozzle unit cuts out – do not top up or over- fill.

Warning!

Overfilling of the fuel tank may create pres- sure in the system which could cause a gas discharge. This could cause the gas to spray back out when removing the fuel pump noz- zle, which could cause personal injury.

i Leaving the engine running and the fuel cap open can cause the yellow fuel tank reserve warning lamp to flash and the ? malfunction indicator lamp (USA only) or the ± malfunc- tion indicator lamp (Canada only) comes on. For more information, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 417).

i Gasoline engine: Only use premium unlead- ed gasoline with a minimum Posted Octane Rat- ing of 91 (average of 96 RON/86 MON). Information on gasoline quality can normally be found on the fuel pump. For more information on gasoline, see “Premium unleaded gasoline (gasoline engine)” (컄 page 547), see “Fuel requirements” (컄 page 548), and the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet.

i Diesel engine: Only use commercially avail- able vehicular diesel fuels No. 2 or No. 1 (ASTM D975 No. 2-D or No. 1-D). Information on diesel quality can normally be found on the fuel pump. The sulfur content in diesel fuel should not exceed 50 parts per million (ppm). When using diesel fuel with a sulfur content of above 300 ppm, the engine oil interval should be shortened. For more information on diesel fuels, refer to the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet or contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

! Diesel engine: The engine is more susceptible to wear and damage if you use 앫 marine diesel fuel 앫 heating oil 앫 additives The use of such non-approved fuels and/or special additives is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

353

Operation At the gas station

Low outside temperatures (diesel engine) To prevent malfunctions, diesel fuel with improved cold flow characteristics is of- fered in the winter months. Check with your fuel retailer.

! Do not fill the tank with gasoline. Do not blend diesel fuel with gasoline or kerosine. The fuel system and engine will otherwise be dam- aged, which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

354

Check regularly and before a long trip

Brake fluid

! 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 immediately. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center immediately. Do not add brake fluid as this will not solve the problem. For more information, see “Brake fluid” (컄 page 546).

Coolant For normal replenishing, use water (pota- ble water quality). For more information, see “Coolant level” (컄 page 362) and see “Fuels, coolants, lu- bricants” (컄 page 543).

왘 Open the hood (컄 page 356).

Example ML 500
1 Brake fluid 2 Coolant level 3 Windshield washer system and

headlamp cleaning system*

Engine oil level For more information on engine oil, see “Engine oil” (컄 page 358).

Windshield/rear window washer system and headlamp cleaning system* For more information on refilling the wash- er reservoir, see “Windshield/rear window washer system and headlamp cleaning system*” (컄 page 363).

Vehicle lighting Check function and cleanliness. For infor- mation on replacing light bulbs, see “Re- placing bulbs” (컄 page 482). For more information, see “Exterior lamp switch” (컄 page 136).

Tire inflation pressure For more information, see “Checking tire inflation pressure” (컄 page 375).

Operation At the gas station

355

Operation Engine compartment

Hood

Warning!

Do not pull the release lever while the vehi- cle is in motion. Otherwise the hood could be forced open by passing air flow.

This could cause the hood to come loose and injure you and/or others.

Opening

Warning!

If you see flames or smoke coming from the engine compartment, or if the coolant tem- perature gauge indicates that the engine is overheated, do not open the hood. Move away from vehicle and do not open the hood until the engine has cooled. If necessary, call the fire department.

356

Warning!

Warning!

Vehicles with gasoline engine: The engine is equipped with a transistorized ignition system. Because of the high voltage it is dangerous to touch any components (ignition coils, spark plug sockets, diagnos- tic socket) of the ignition system 앫 with the engine running 앫 while starting the engine 앫 if ignition is “on” and the engine is

turned manually

You could be injured when the hood is open – even when the engine is turned off.

Parts of the engine can become very hot. To prevent burns, only touch owner serviceable components described in the Operator’s Manual and comply with all relevant safety precautions.

Warning!

To help prevent personal injury, stay clear of moving parts when the hood is open and the engine is running.

The radiator fan may continue to run for ap- proximately 30 seconds or even restart af- ter the engine has been turned off. Stay clear of fan blades.

Warning!

The hood lock release lever is located in the driver’s footwell.

Operation Engine compartment

Vehicles with diesel engine: The engine is equipped with a high-voltage electronic control unit for the injection system. Because of the high voltage it is dangerous to touch any components of the injection system (injectors, electrical wires) 앫 with the engine running 앫 while starting the engine 앫 when the ignition is switched on

1 Release lever 왘 Pull release lever 1 downwards.

The hood is unlocked. Handle 2 pro- trudes slightly from the radiator grille. If not, lift the hood slightly.

! To avoid damage to the windshield wipers or hood, never open the hood if the wiper arms are folded forward away from the windshield.

2 Handle for opening the hood 왘 Press and hold handle 2.

The hood is unlocked.

왘 Pull up on the hood in direction of ar-

row and then release it. The hood will be automatically held open at shoulder height by gas-filled struts.

357

Operation Engine compartment

Closing

Warning!

When closing the hood, use extreme caution not to catch hands or fingers. Be careful that you do not close the hood on anyone.

Make sure that the hood is securely en- gaged before driving off. Do not continue driving if the hood can no longer engage af- ter an accident, for example. The hood could otherwise come loose while the vehicle is in motion and injure you and/or others.

왘 Let the hood drop from a height of

approximately 1 ft (30 cm). The hood will lock audibly.

왘 Check to make sure the hood is fully

closed. If you can raise the hood at a point above the headlamps, then it is not properly closed. Open it again and let it drop with somewhat greater force.

358

Engine oil

The amount of oil your engine needs will depend on a number of factors, including driving style. Increased oil consumption can occur when 앫 the vehicle is new 앫 the vehicle is driven frequently at

higher engine speeds

Engine oil consumption checks should only be made after the vehicle break-in period.

i Do not use any special lubricant additives, as these may damage the drive assemblies. Using special additives not approved by Mercedes-Benz may cause damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. More information on this subject is available at any Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Checking engine oil level with the control system (ML 500 only) When checking the oil level 앫 the vehicle must be parked on level

ground

앫 with the engine at operating tempera-

ture, the vehicle must have been stationary for at least 5 minutes with the engine turned off

앫 with the engine not at operating tem- perature yet, the vehicle must have been stationary for at least 30 minutes with the engine turned off

To check the engine oil level via the multifunction display, do the following: 왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 40). The standard display (컄 page 154) should appear in the multifunction display.

왘 Press button k or j on the

multifunction steering wheel until the following message appears in the mul- tifunction display:

One of the following messages will subsequently appear in the multifunction display: 앫 Engine oil level OK 앫 Add 1.0 qt. to reach max. oil

level (Canada: 1.0 liter)

앫 Add 1.5 qts. to reach max. oil

level (Canada: 1.5 liters)

앫 Add 2.0 qts. to reach max. oil

level (Canada: 2.0 liters)

i If you want to interrupt the checking proce- dure, press the k orj button on the multifunction steering wheel. 왘 If necessary, add engine oil

(컄 page 361).

For information on adding engine oil, see (컄 page 361). For more information on engine oil, see “Technical data” section (컄 page 543) and (컄 page 546).

Other display messages If the SmartKey or KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button is not in position 2, the following message will appear:

Switch ignition on to check engine oil level 왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 40). If you see the message:

Observe waiting period

Operation Engine compartment

왘 If the engine is at operating

temperature, wait 5 minutes before repeating check procedure.

왘 If the engine is not at operating temper- ature, wait 30 minutes before repeat- ing check procedure. If you see the message:

Engine oil level Not when engine on 왘 Turn off the engine. 왘 If the engine is at operating tempera- ture, wait 5 minutes before checking oil.

왘 If the engine is not at operating temper-

ature yet, you must wait 30 minutes before checking oil.

If there is excess engine oil with the engine at operating temperature, the following message will appear:

Engine oil level Reduce oil level

359

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Have excess oil siphoned or drained

off. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

! Excess oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and/or catalytic converter (gasoline engine) or the oxi- dation catalyst (diesel engine) not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

For more information on messages in the multifunction display concerning engine oil, see “Practical hints” (컄 page 413).

Checking engine oil level with the oil dipstick (except ML 500) When checking the oil level 앫 the vehicle must be parked on level

ground

앫 the vehicle must have been stationary for at least 5 minutes with the engine turned off

360

왘 Pull out oil dipstick 1 again after approximately 3 seconds to obtain accurate reading. The oil level is correct when it is be- tween lower mark 3 (min.) and upper mark 2 (max.) of the oil dipstick.

i All models (except ML 63 AMG): The filling quantity between the upper and lower marks on the oil dipstick is approximately 2.1 US qt. (2.0 l). ML 63 AMG: The filling quantity between the upper and lower marks on the oil dipstick is approximately 1.6 US qt. (1.5 l). 왘 If necessary, add engine oil

(컄 page 361).

For more information on engine oil, see “Technical data” section (컄 page 543) and (컄 page 546).

1 Oil dipstick 2 Upper mark 3 Lower mark 왘 Open the hood (컄 page 356). 왘 Pull out oil dipstick 1. 왘 Wipe oil dipstick 1 clean. 왘 Fully insert oil dipstick 1 into the

dipstick guide tube.

Adding engine oil

! Only use approved engine oils and oil filters required for vehicles with Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) or FSS PLUS (Canada vehicles). For a listing of approved engine oils and oil filters, refer to the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet in your vehicle literature portfolio, or contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. Using engine oils and oil filters of specification other than those expressly required for the Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) or FSS PLUS (Canada vehicles), or changing of oil and oil filter at change intervals longer than those called for by the Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) or FSS PLUS (Canada vehicles) will result in engine or emission control system damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Example ML 350 (ML 320 CDI similar) 1 Filler cap

Example ML 500 (ML 63 AMG similar) 1 Filler cap

Operation Engine compartment

왘 Unscrew filler cap 1 from filler neck. 왘 Add engine oil as required. Never over-

fill with oil.

Be careful not to spill any oil when adding. Avoid environmental damage caused by oil entering the ground or water.

! Excess oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and/or catalytic converter (gasoline engine) or the oxi- dation catalyst (diesel engine) not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. 왘 Screw filler cap 1 back on filler neck. For more information on engine oil, see “Technical data” section (컄 page 543) and (컄 page 546).

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Operation Engine compartment

Transmission fluid level

The transmission fluid level does not need to be checked. If you notice transmission fluid loss or gear shifting malfunctions, have an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center check the automatic trans- mission.

Coolant level

The engine coolant is a mixture of water and anticorrosion/antifreeze. To check the coolant level, the vehicle must be parked on level ground.

Warning!

In order to avoid potentially serious burns: 앫 Use extreme caution when opening the hood if there are any signs of steam or coolant leaking from the cooling system, or if the coolant temperature gauge indi- cates that the coolant is overheated.

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앫 Do not remove pressure cap on coolant

reservoir if coolant temperature is above 158°F (70°C). Allow engine to cool down before removing cap. The coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is under pressure.

앫 Using a rag, slowly open the cap approx- imately 1/2 turn to relieve excess pres- sure. If opened immediately, scalding hot fluid and steam will be blown out un- der pressure.

앫 Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine

parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene gly- col which may burn if it comes into con- tact with hot engine parts.

The coolant expansion tank is located on the driver’s side of the engine compart- ment.

1 Cap 2 Coolant expansion tank 3 Indicator wall 4 Coolant level 왘 Using a rag, turn cap 1 slowly approx- imately one half turn counterclockwise to release any excess pressure.

Windshield/rear window washer system and headlamp cleaning system*

The windshield washer reservoir is located in the engine compartment.

왘 Continue turning cap 1 counterclock-

wise and remove it. Coolant level 4 is correct if the level: 앫 for cold coolant: reaches the top of indicator wall 3 visible through the filling opening

앫 for warm coolant: is approximately

0.6 in (1.5 cm) higher 왘 Add coolant as required. 왘 Replace and tighten cap 1. For more information on coolant, see “Coolants” (컄 page 549).

1 Cap for windshield washer fluid

reservoir

Fluid for the windshield washer system and the headlamp cleaning system* is supplied from the windshield washer reservoir. It has a capacity of 8.1 US qt (7.7 l).

Operation Engine compartment

During all seasons, add MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “MB SummerFit” to water. Premix the windshield washer fluid in a suitable container.

Warning!

Washer solvent/antifreeze is highly flamma- ble. Do not spill washer solvent/antifreeze on hot engine parts, because it may ignite and burn. You could be seriously burned.

왘 Use the tab to pull cap 1 upwards.

컄컄

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Operation Engine compartment

컄컄

왘 Refill the reservoir with MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “MB SummerFit” and water (or commercially available premixed windshield washer sol- vent/antifreeze, depending on ambient temperatures).

! Always use washer solvent/antifreeze where temperatures may fall below freezing point. Failure to do so could result in damage to the washer system/reservoir.

! Only use washer fluid which is suitable for plastic lenses. Improper washer fluid can damage the plastic lenses of the headlamps.

For more information, see “Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning* system” (컄 page 551).

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왔 Tires and wheels See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center for information on tested and recommended rims and tires for summer and winter operation. They can also offer advice concerning tire service and purchase.

Warning!

Replace rims or tires with the same designa- tion, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center for fur- ther information. If incorrectly sized rims and tires are mounted: 앫 The wheel brakes or suspension

components can be damaged.

앫 The operating clearance of the wheels and the tires may no longer be correct.

Warning!

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

When replacing rims, only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the particular rim type. Failure to do so can result in the bolts loosening and possibly an accident.

Retreaded tires are not tested or recom- mended by Mercedes-Benz, since previous damage cannot always be recognized on re- treads. The operating safety of the vehicle cannot be assured when such tires are used.

Operation Tires and wheels

Important guidelines

앫 Only use sets of tires and rims of the

same type and make.

앫 Tires must be of the correct size for the

rim.

앫 Break in new tires for approximately

60 miles (100 km) at moderate speeds.

앫 Regularly check the tires and rims for

damage. Dented or bent rims can cause tire inflation pressure loss or damage to the tire beads.

앫 If vehicle is heavily loaded, check tire

inflation pressure and correct as required.

앫 Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths under 1/8 in (3 mm).

앫 When replacing individual tires, you should mount new tires on the front wheels first (on vehicles with same-sized wheels all around).

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Tire inspection Every time you check your tire inflation pressure, you should also inspect your tires for the following: 앫 excessive treadwear (컄 page 367) 앫 cord or fabric showing through the

tire’s rubber

Life of tire The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying factors including but not limited to: 앫 Driving style 앫 Tire inflation pressure 앫 Distance driven

앫 bumps, bulges, cuts, cracks or splits in

the tread or side of the tire

Warning!

Tires and spare tire should be replaced after 6 years, regardless of the remaining tread.

Replace the tire if you find any of the above conditions. Make sure you also inspect the spare tire periodically for condition and inflation. Spare tires will age and become worn over time even if never used, and thus should be inspected and replaced when necessary.

Operation Tires and wheels

Tire care and maintenance

Warning!

Regularly check the tires for damage. Dam- aged tires can cause tire inflation pressure loss. As a result, you could lose control of your vehicle.

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.

Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. For more informa- tion on checking tire inflation pressure, see “Recommended tire inflation pres- sure” (컄 page 374).

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Tread depth Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths under 1/8 in (3 mm). Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These indicators are located in six places on the tread circumference and become visible at a tread depth of approx- imately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), at which point the tire is considered worn and should be re- placed. Recommended minimum tire tread depth: 앫 Summer tires 1/8 in (3 mm) 앫 Winter tires 1/6 in (4 mm)

Warning!

Although the applicable federal motor safety laws consider a tire to be worn when the treadwear indicators (TWI) become visible at approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), we recom- mend that you do not allow your tires

to wear down to that level. As tread depth approaches 1/8 in (3 mm), the adhesion properties on a wet road are sharply re- duced.

Depending upon the weather and/or road surface (conditions), the tire traction varies widely.

Operation Tires and wheels

Storing tires

! Keep unmounted tires in a cool, dry place with as little exposure to light as possible. Protect tires from contact with oil, grease and gasoline.

Cleaning tires

! 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.

1 TWI (Tread Wear Indicator) The treadwear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread.

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Operation Tires and wheels

Direction of rotation

Loading the vehicle

앫 The certification label found on the

Unidirectional tires offer added advantag- es, such as better hydroplaning perfor- mance. To benefit, however, you must make sure the tires rotate in the direction specified. An arrow on the sidewall indicates the intended direction of rotation (spinning) of the tire.

i Spare wheels may be mounted against the direction of rotation (spinning) even with a unidi- rectional tire for temporary use only until the reg- ular drive wheel has been repaired or replaced. Always observe and follow applicable temporary use restrictions and speed limitations indicated on the spare wheel.

Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry. 앫 The Tire and Loading Information

placard can be found on the driver’s door B-pillar. This placard tells you im- portant information about the number of people that can be in the vehicle and the total weight that can be carried in the vehicle. It also contains information on the proper size and recommended tire inflation pressures for the original equipment tires on your vehicle.

driver’s door B-pillar tells you about the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. The certification label also tells you about the front and rear axle weight capacity, called the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). The GAWR is the total allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). Never exceed the GVWR or GAWR for either the front axle or rear axle.

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Tire and Loading Information

Tire and Loading Information placard

Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit indicated on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

Your vehicle is equipped with a Tire and Loading Information placard.

i Data shown on placard example are for illustration purposes only. Load limit data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustration below. Refer to placard on vehicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

1 Load limit information on the Tire and

Loading Information placard

The placard showing the load limit informa- tion is located on the driver’s door B-pillar. 왘 Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kilograms or XXX lbs.” on this placard. The combined weight of all occupants, cargo/luggage and trailer tongue load (if applicable) should never exceed the weight referenced in that statement.

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1 Driver’s door B-pillar Following is a discussion on how to work with the information contained on the placard with regards to loading your vehicle.

Operation Tires and wheels

Seating capacity The seating capacity gives you important information on the number of occupants that can be in the vehicle. Observe front and rear seating capacity. The placard showing the seating capacity is located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 369).

i Data shown on placard example are for illustration purposes only. Seating data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustration below. Refer to placard on vehicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

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Step 1
왘 Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.

Step 2
왘 Determine the combined weight of the

driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

Step 3
왘 Subtract the combined weight of the

driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX lbs.

1 Seating capacity information on the Tire and Loading Information placard.

Steps for determining correct load limit The following steps have been developed as required of all manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”.

Step 4
왘 The resulting figure equals the avail-

Step 6 (if applicable) 왘 If your vehicle will be towing a trailer,

able amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be five 150 lbs passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs (1400-750 (5 x150) = 650 lbs).

Step 5
왘 Determine the combined weight of

luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4.

load from your trailer will be trans- ferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle (컄 page 373).

The following table shows examples on how to calculate total and cargo load capacities with varying seating configura- tions and number and size of occupants. The following examples use a load limit of 1500 lbs. This is for illustration purposes only. Make sure you are using the actual load limit for your vehicle stated on the vehicle’s placard (컄 page 369).

Operation Tires and wheels

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Operation Tires and wheels

Example Combined

weight limit of occu- pants and cargo from placard 1500 lbs

1500 lbs

1500 lbs

Number of occupants (driver and passengers)

Seating configura- tion

Occupants weight

Combined weight of all occupants

Available cargo/luggage and trailer tongue weight (total load limit from placard minus combined weight of all occupants)

front: 2

rear: 3

front: 1
rear: 2

front:1

Occupant 1: 150 lbs Occupant 2: 180 lbs Occupant 3: 160 lbs Occupant 4: 140 lbs Occupant 5: 120 lbs Occupant 1: 200 lbs Occupant 2: 190 lbs Occupant 3: 150 lbs Occupant 1: 150 lbs

750 lbs

1500 lbs - 750 lbs = 750 lbs

540 lbs

1500 lbs - 540 lbs = 960 lbs

150 lbs

1500 lbs - 150 lbs = 1350 lbs

The higher the weight of all occupants, the less cargo and luggage load capacity is available. For more information, see “Trailer tongue load” (컄 page 373).

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Certification label Even after careful determination of the combined weight of all occupants, cargo and the trailer tongue load (if applicable) (컄 page 373) as to not exceed the permis- sible load limit, you must make sure that your vehicle never exceeds the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for ei- ther the front or rear axle. You can obtain the GVWR and GAWR from the certification label. The certification label can be found on the driver’s door B-pillar, see “Technical data” (컄 page 527).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The total weight of the vehicle, all occupants, all cargo, and the trailer tongue load (컄 page 373) must never exceed the GVWR. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): The to- tal allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). To assure that your vehicle does not ex- ceed the maximum permissible weight limits (GVWR and GAWR for front and rear axle), have the loaded vehicle (including driver, passengers and all cargo and, if ap- plicable, trailer fully loaded) weighed on a suitable commercial scale.

Operation Tires and wheels

Trailer tongue load The tongue load of any trailer is an impor- tant weight to measure because it affects the load you can carry in your vehicle. If a trailer is towed, the tongue load must be added to the weight of all occupants riding and any cargo you are carrying in the vehicle. The tongue load typically is between 10% and 15% of the trailer weight and everything loaded in it. For more information on trailer tongue load, see “Loading a trailer” (컄 page 343).

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Operation Tires and wheels

Recommended tire inflation pressure

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being over- heated.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

374

Your vehicle is equipped with the Tire and Loading Information placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 369). The tire inflation pressure should be checked regularly and should only be ad- justed on cold tires. The tires can be con- sidered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). Follow recommended cold tire inflation pressures listed on placard. Keeping the tires properly inflated provides the best handling, tread life and riding comfort. In addition to the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar, also consult the fuel filler flap for any additional information pertaining to special driving situations. For more information, see “Important notes on tire inflation pressure” (컄 page 375).

i Data shown on placard example are for illustration purposes only. Tire data are specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in the illustration below. Refer to placard on vehicle for actual data specific to your vehicle.

1 Tire and Loading Information placard with recommended cold tire inflation pressures

The Tire and Loading Information placard lists the recommended cold tire inflation pressures for maximum loaded vehicle weight. The tire inflation pressures listed apply to the tires installed as original equipment.

Important notes on tire inflation pressure

Warning!

If the tire inflation pressure repeatedly drops: 앫 Check the tires for punctures from

foreign objects.

앫 Check to see whether air is leaking from

the valves or from around the rim.

Tire temperature and tire inflation pressure are also increased while driving, depending on the driving speed and the tire load. If you will be driving your vehicle at high speeds of 100 mph (160 km/h) or higher, where it is legal and conditions allow, consult the placard on the inside of the fuel filler flap on how to adjust the cold tire in- flation pressure. If you do not adjust the tire inflation pressure, excessive heat can build up and result in sudden tire failure.

Be sure to readjust the tire inflation pressure for normal driving speeds. You should wait until the tires are cold before adjusting the tire inflation pressure.

i Driving comfort may be reduced when the tire inflation pressure is adjusted to the value for speeds above 100 mph (160 km/h) as specified on the placard located on the inside of the fuel filler flap.

Some vehicles may have supplemental tire inflation pressure information for vehicle loads less than the maximum loaded vehi- cle condition. If such information is provid- ed, it can be found on the placard located on the inside of the fuel filler flap. Tire inflation pressure changes by approxi- mately 1.5 psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air temperature change. Keep this in mind when checking tire inflation pressure where the temperature is different from the outside temperature.

Operation Tires and wheels

Checking tire inflation pressure

Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold. The tires can be considered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km). If you check the tire inflation pressure when the tires are warm (the vehicle has been driven for several miles or sitting less than 3 hours), the reading will be approximately 4 psi (0.3 bar) higher than the cold reading. This is normal. Do not let air out to match the specified cold tire inflation pressure. Otherwise, the tire will be underinflated.

375

i If you have overfilled the tire, release tire in- flation pressure by pushing the metal stem of the valve with e.g. a tip of a pen. Then recheck the tire inflation pressure with the tire gauge. 왘 Install the valve cap. 왘 Repeat this procedure for each tire.

Checking tire inflation pressure manually Follow the steps below to achieve correct tire inflation pressure: 왘 Remove the cap from the valve on one

tire.

왘 Firmly press a tire gauge onto the

valve.

왘 Read tire inflation pressure on tire gauge and check against the recom- mended tire inflation pressure on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar (컄 page 369) or, if available, the inside of the fuel filler flap. If necessary, add air to achieve the recommended tire in- flation pressure.

Operation Tires and wheels

Warning!

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.

Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being over- heated.

Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit as indicated on the plac- ard on the driver’s door B-pillar. Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly caus- ing a blowout. Overloading the tires can also result in handling or steering problems, or brake failure.

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Operation Tires and wheels

Run Flat Indicator (Canada only) While the vehicle is being driven, the Run Flat Indicator monitors the set tire inflation pressures by evaluating each wheel’s rota- tional speed. This allows the system to de- tect a significant loss of pressure in a tire. If a wheel’s rotational speed changes due to falling tire inflation pressure, you will see a corresponding warning message in the multifunction display. The Run Flat Indicator may function in a restricted manner or with a delay 앫 if snow chains are mounted to the

vehicle

앫 in presence of ice and snow 앫 if you are driving on a loose surface

(e.g. sand or gravel)

앫 if you are driving in a very sporty man- ner (involving rapid acceleration or high speeds in curves)

Warning!

Warning!

When the multifunction display shows the message Tire pressure Check tires, one or more of your tires is significantly un- derinflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper tire inflation pressure as indicat- ed on the vehicle’s tire information placard. Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability. Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when cold and set to the recommended tire inflation pressure as specified on the Tire and Loading Informa- tion placard (컄 page 369) or on the tire inflation pressure label (컄 page 369).

The Run Flat Indicator does not provide a warning for wrongly selected tire inflation pressures. Always adjust tire inflation pres- sure according to the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or fuel filler flap.

The Run Flat Indicator does not replace reg- ular checks of the tire inflation pressures since a gradual pressure loss in all four tires cannot be detected by the Run Flat Indicator.

The Run Flat Indicator is not able to issue a warning due to a sudden dramatic loss of tire inflation pressure (e.g. tire blowout caused by a foreign object). In this case bring the vehicle to a halt by carefully apply- ing the brakes and avoiding abrupt steering maneuvers.

377

Operation Tires and wheels

Reactivating the Run Flat Indicator The tire inflation pressure monitor must be reactivated in the following situations: 앫 If you have changed the tire inflation

pressure

앫 If you have replaced the wheels or tires 앫 If you have installed new wheels or

tires

왘 Using the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or, if available, the inside of the fuel filler flap, make sure the tire inflation pressure of all four tires is cor- rect.

Warning!

The Run Flat Indicator can only warn you in a reliable manner if you have set the correct tire inflation pressures for each tire.

If an incorrect tire inflation pressure was set, the system will monitor the pressure ac- cording to the incorrect value.

378

왘 Switch on the ignition (컄 page 40).

Make sure the standard display menu appears in the multifunction display (컄 page 147).

왘 Press button k or j repeatedly until the following message appears in the multifunction display:

왘 Press the reset button on the instru-

ment cluster (컄 page 145). The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Restart Run Flat Indicator? Yes Cancel

If you wish to confirm activation: 왘 Press button æ.

The following message will appear in the multifunction display: Run Flat Indicator restarted

After a certain “learning phase”, the Run Flat Indicator checks the set pressure val- ues for all four tires. If you wish to cancel activation: 왘 Press button ç. or 왘 Wait until the message

Restart Run Flat Indicator? Yes Cancel disappears.

Checking tire pressure electronically with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), (USA only)

i The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is equipped with a combination low tire pressure/TPMS malfunction telltale in the instrument cluster (컄 page 27). Depending on how the telltale illuminates, it indicates a low tire pressure condition or a malfunction in the TPMS system itself: 앫 If the telltale illuminates continuously, one or more of your tires is significantly underin- flated. There is no malfunction in the TPMS.

앫 If the telltale flashes for 60 seconds and then stays illuminated, the TPMS system itself is not operating properly.

The TPMS only functions on wheels that are equipped with the proper electronic sensors. It monitors the tire inflation pres- sure, as selected by the driver, in all four tires. A warning is issued to alert you to a decrease in pressure in one or more of the tires.

Warning!

The TPMS does not indicate a warning for wrongly selected inflation pressures. Always adjust tire inflation pressure according to the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or, if available, the supplemental tire pressure in- formation on the inside of the fuel filler flap.

The TPMS is not able to issue a warning due