2012 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

If the engine does not start despite attempts to jump-start it:

X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

The starter motor was exposed to a thermal load that was too high.

X Allow the starter motor to cool down for approximately two

minutes.

X Try to start the engine again.

If the engine still does not start:

X Consult a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized

Mercedes-Benz Center.

There is a malfunction in the engine electronics or a mechanical component of the engine management system.

X Only depress the accelerator pedal slightly.

X Have the cause rectified immediately at a qualified specialist

workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Otherwise, non-combusted fuel may get into the catalytic converter and damage it.

The engine is not running smoothly and is misfiring.

The coolant temperature gauge shows a value above 248 ‡ (120 †).

The coolant level is too low. The coolant is too hot and the engine is no longer being cooled sufficiently.

X Stop as soon as possible and allow the engine and the coolant

to cool down.

X Check the coolant level (Y page 315). Observe the warning

notes as you do so and add coolant if necessary.

144 Automatic transmission

Automatic transmission

Important safety notes

G WARNING It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of parking position P or neutral position N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.

G WARNING Keep in mind that turning off the engine alone only will shift the automatic transmission into neutral position N automatically.

Always shift the automatic transmission into park position P before turning off the engine.

Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

DIRECT SELECT lever

Overview of transmission positions

The DIRECT SELECT lever is on the right of the steering column.

P Park position with parking lock R Reverse gear N Neutral D Drive

i The DIRECT SELECT lever always returns

to its original position. The current transmission position P, R, N or D appears in the transmission position display (Y page 145) in the multifunction display.

Engaging park position P

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever in the

direction of arrow P.

i The automatic transmission shifts

automatically into park position P if you open the driver's door when the vehicle is stationary or driving at very low speed, and the transmission is in position D or R.

! If the engine speed is too high or the

vehicle is moving, do not shift the automatic transmission directly from D to R, from R to D or directly to P. The automatic transmission could otherwise be damaged.

Engaging park position P automatically

Park position P is automatically engaged if:

Ryou switch off the engine using the

SmartKey and remove the SmartKey, or if you switch off the engine using the Start/ Stop button and open one of the front doors.

Rthe HOLD function (Y page 179) or

DISTRONIC PLUS (Y page 169) brakes your vehicle until it is stationary and at least one of the following conditions is fulfilled:

there is a system malfunction.

there is a severe uphill or downhill slope. The electric parking brake is then also applied.

Engaging reverse gear R

! Only shift the automatic transmission to

R when the vehicle is stationary.

Automatic transmission 145

X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

Rrelease the brake pedal.

brake pedal.

Rremove the Start/Stop button from the

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up past the

ignition lock.

first point of resistance.

Shifting to neutral N

Rinsert the SmartKey into the ignition lock.

Rswitch on the ignition.

Rdepress the brake pedal and keep it

X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

depressed.

Rshift to neutral N.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever up or down

Rrelease the brake pedal.

to the first point of resistance.

Rif applied, release the electric parking

If the engine has been switched off, the automatic transmission automatically switches to N.

brake.

Rswitch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the ignition lock.

Remaining in neutral N

If the automatic transmission is to remain in neutral N, e.g. for washing the vehicle in car washes with a towing device, please observe the following instructions:

G WARNING When leaving the SmartKey in the starter switch, do not leave children unattended in the vehicle. It is possible for children to switch on the ignition which could result in unsupervised use of vehicle equipment. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Using the SmartKey:

Rmake sure that the ignition is switched on.

Rwhen the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal and keep it depressed.

Rshift to neutral N.

Rrelease the brake pedal.

Rif applied, release the electric parking

brake.

Rswitch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the ignition lock.

Using KEYLESS-GO:

Rmake sure that the ignition is switched on.

Rwhen the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal and keep it depressed.

Rengage park position P.

Shifting to transmission position D

X When the vehicle is stationary, depress the

brake pedal.

X Push the DIRECT SELECT lever down past

the first point of resistance.

Transmission position display

The current transmission position is shown in the multifunction display.

: Transmission position

The arrows in the transmission position display show how and into which transmission positions you can change using the DIRECT SELECT lever.

! If the transmission position display in the

multifunction display is not working, you should pull away carefully to check whether the desired transmission position is engaged. Select transmission position D. Do not restrict the shift range.

146 Automatic transmission

Transmission positions

A Neutral

B Park position

Do not shift the transmission into position P(Y page 155) unless the vehicle is stationary. The parking lock should not be used as a brake when parking. In addition to engaging the parking lock, you must always apply the electric parking brake to secure the vehicle.

If the vehicle electronics are malfunctioning, the transmission may be locked in position P. Have the vehicle electronics checked at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, immediately.

The automatic transmission shifts to P automatically if you:

Rremove the SmartKey

Rswitch off the engine when in R or D and open one of the front doors

Do not shift the transmission to N while driving. Otherwise, the automatic transmission could be damaged.

No power is transmitted from the engine to the drive wheels.

Releasing the brakes will allow you to move the vehicle freely, e.g. to push it or tow it.

If ESP® is deactivated or faulty: only shift the transmission to position N if the vehicle is in danger of skidding, e.g. on icy roads.

If you switch off the engine using the SmartKey or the Start/Stop button, the automatic transmission shifts to neutral N automatically.

! Rolling in neutral N can damage

the drive train.

7 Drive

The automatic transmission changes gear automatically. All forward gears are available.

C Reverse gear

Only shift the transmission to R when the vehicle is stationary.

Changing gear

The automatic transmission shifts to the individual gears automatically when it is in transmission position D. This automatic gearshifting behavior is determined by:

Ra possible limitation of the shift range

Rthe position of the accelerator pedal

Rthe road speed

Driving tips

Kickdown

Use kickdown for maximum acceleration.

X Vehicles for USA: fully depress the

accelerator pedal. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

X Vehicles for Canada: depress the

accelerator pedal beyond the pressure point. The transmission shifts to a lower gear depending on the engine speed.

Rocking the vehicle free

Rocking the vehicle free by shifting back and forth between transmission positions D and R can help to free a vehicle that has become stuck in mud or snow. The engine management system of the vehicle limits shifting back and forth between transmission positions D and R to a maximum speed of 5 mph (9 km/h). To shift back and forth between transmission positions D and R, move the selector lever up and down beyond the pressure point.

Working on the vehicle

G WARNING When working on the vehicle, engage the electronic parking brake and shift the automatic transmission into park position P. Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Trailer towing

X Drive in the middle of the engine speed

range on uphill gradients.

X Depending on the uphill or downhill

gradient, shift down into shift range 3 or 2(Y page 147), even if cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS are switched on.

Automatic transmission 147

Steering wheel paddle shifters

You can restrict or derestrict the shift range by using the steering wheel paddle shifters : and ;(Y page 147).

i You can only change gear with the

steering wheel paddle shifters when the transmission is in position D.

Shift ranges

Introduction

In transmission position D, you can use the steering wheel paddle shifter to restrict or derestrict the shift range for the automatic transmission (Y page 147).

The shift range selected is shown in the multifunction display. The automatic transmission shifts only as far as the selected gear.

Driving situations

= You can use the engine's braking

effect.

X Use the DIRECT SELECT lever to shift the

transmission to position D. The automatic transmission shifts from the current shift range directly to D.

Selecting the ideal shift range

X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter and hold it in position. The automatic transmission shifts to the gear which allows optimum acceleration and deceleration. To do this, the automatic transmission shifts down one or more gears.

148 Automatic transmission

5 To use the braking effect of the

engine on downhill gradients and for driving:

Ron steep mountain roads

Rin mountainous terrain

Rin arduous conditions

4 To use the braking effect of the

engine on extremely steep downhill gradients and on long downhill stretches

Restricting the shift range

X Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The automatic transmission shifts down one gear and restricts the shift range to the relevant gear.

i If the engine exceeds the maximum engine speed when shifting down, the automatic transmission protects against engine damage by not shifting down.

i If the maximum engine speed for the shift

range is reached and you continue to accelerate, the automatic transmission shifts up, even if the shift range is restricted. This prevents the engine from overrevving.

Derestricting the shift range

X Pull the right-hand steering wheel paddle

shifter. The shift range is derestricted.

Clearing the shift range restriction

X Pull and hold the right-hand steering wheel paddle shifter until D is shown again in the multifunction display. The automatic transmission shifts from the current shift range directly to D.

or

Refueling 149

Problems with the transmission

Problem

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

The transmission has problems shifting gear.

The transmission is losing oil.

X Have the transmission checked at a qualified specialist

workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, immediately.

The acceleration ability is deteriorating.

The transmission no longer changes gear.

The transmission is in emergency mode.

It is only possible to shift into second gear and reverse gear.

X Stop the vehicle.

X Shift the transmission to position P.

X Switch off the engine.

X Wait at least 10 seconds before restarting the engine.

X Shift the transmission to position D or R.

If D is selected, the transmission shifts into second gear; if R is selected, the transmission shifts into reverse gear.

X Have the transmission checked at a qualified specialist

workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, immediately.

Refueling

Important safety notes

G WARNING Gasoline and diesel fuels are highly flammable and poisonous. They burn violently and can cause serious injury.

Never allow sparks, flames or smoking materials near gasoline or diesel fuel!

Turn off the engine before refueling.

Whenever you are around gasoline or diesel fuel, avoid inhaling fumes and any skin or clothing contact. Extinguish all smoking materials.

Direct skin contact with fuels and the inhalation of fuel vapors are damaging your health.

G WARNING Overfilling of the fuel tank may create pressure in the system which could cause a gas discharge. This could cause the gasoline

to spray back out when removing the fuel pump nozzle, which could cause personal injury.

G 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.

! Do not use gasoline to refuel vehicles with a diesel engine. Do not use diesel to refuel vehicles with a gasoline engine. Even a small quantity of the wrong fuel will damage the fuel system and engine.

! Do not switch on the ignition if you

accidentally refuel with the wrong fuel. Otherwise, the fuel will enter the fuel lines. Notify a qualified specialist workshop and have the fuel tank and fuel lines drained completely.

150 Refueling

Gasoline

Fuel grade

! You should only refuel with premium- grade unleaded gasoline, as this avoids damaging the catalytic converter.

Flexible fuel vehicles, identifiable from the label inside the fuel filler flap, can be refueled with E85. For further information on flexible fuel, see "Fuel".

If engine running problems are apparent, have the cause checked immediately and repaired. Excess unburned fuel can otherwise enter the catalytic converter, leading to overheating and possibly causing a fire.

! Use a filter when refueling from a fuel can. Otherwise, the fuel lines and/or injection system could be blocked by particles from the fuel can.

i Only refuel with premium-grade unleaded gasoline with a specified minimum octane number of 91 (average value of 96 RON/ 86 MON).

You will usually find information about the fuel grade on the pump. If you cannot find the label on the pump, ask the staff for assistance.

You can find more information under "Fuel" (Y page 385), or by contacting an authorized Mercedes-Benz Service Center or visiting http://www.mbusa.com (USA only).

Diesel

Fuel grade

! Only refuel with ULTRA-LOW SULFUR DIESEL FUEL (ULSD, 15 ppm SULFUR MAXIMUM). Using other diesel fuels could result in increased wear and damage to the engine and/or exhaust system.

Never refuel with marine diesel or heating oil.

Do not mix these fuels with diesel fuels and do not use any special additives, as this may result in damage.

! Use a filter when adding fuel from a fuel can. Otherwise, the fuel lines and/or the fuel injection system could be blocked by particles from the fuel can.

i Usually, you will find information about the fuel grade on the pump. If you cannot find the label on the gasoline pump, ask the gas station staff.

You can find more information under “Fuel” (Y page 385), or by contacting an authorized Mercedes-Benz Service Center or visiting http://www.mbusa.com (USA only).

Low outside temperatures

! Do not use gasoline to refuel vehicles with

a diesel engine. Never mix diesel with gasoline or kerosene, as this may result in damage to the engine or fuel system.

Diesel fuel with improved cold flow properties is available during the winter months. Further information on fuel properties can be obtained from oil companies, e.g. at gas stations.

Refueling

Fuel filler flap

The fuel filler flap is unlocked or locked automatically when you open or close the vehicle with the SmartKey or using KEYLESS- GO.

The position of the fuel filler cap is displayed in the instrument cluster 8. The arrow next to the filling pump indicates the side of the vehicle.

: To open the fuel filler flap

; To insert the fuel filler cap

= Fuel type

? Tire pressure table

Opening

X Switch off the engine.

X Remove the SmartKey from the ignition

lock.

KEYLESS-GO: open the driver’s door. This switches the ignition to position 0, which corresponds to having removed the SmartKey. The driver’s door can be closed again.

X Press the fuel filler flap in the direction of

arrow :. The fuel filler flap swings up.

X Turn the fuel filler cap counter-clockwise

and remove it.

X Insert the fuel filler cap into the holder

bracket on the inside of filler flap ;.

X Completely insert the pump nozzle into the

filler neck and refuel.

X Only fill the tank until the pump nozzle

switches off.

! Overfilling the fuel tank could damage the

fuel system.

Refueling 151

Closing

X Replace the fuel filler cap and turn it clockwise. The fuel filler cap audibly engages.

X Close the fuel filler flap.

i If you drive with the fuel filler cap open,

reserve fuel warning lamp 8 flashes. In addition, the ; Check Engine warning lamp may light up. A message appears in the multifunction display (Y page 257).

For further information on warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster, see (Y page 276).

152 Refueling

Problems with fuel and the fuel tank

Problem

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

Fuel is leaking from the vehicle.

G Risk of explosion or fire

The fuel line or the fuel tank is defective.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 0(Y page 139) in the ignition lock

immediately and remove it.

X Do not restart the engine under any circumstances.

X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

The fuel filler flap cannot be opened.

The fuel filler flap is not unlocked.

or

The SmartKey battery is discharged.

X Unlock the vehicle (Y page 72).

or

X Unlock the vehicle using the mechanical key (Y page 75).

The fuel filler flap is unlocked, but the opening mechanism is jammed.

X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

The engine will not start.

The fuel tank of a vehicle with a diesel engine has been run completely dry.

X Refuel the vehicle with at least 5.3 US qt (5 liters) of diesel.

X Turn the ignition on for at least 10 seconds (Y page 139).

X Start the engine continuously for up to 10 seconds until it runs

smoothly.

If the engine does not start:

X Turn the ignition on again for approximately 10 seconds

(Y page 139).

X Start the engine again continuously for up to 10 seconds until

it runs smoothly.

If the engine does not start after three attempts:

X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

DEF

Important notes on use

To function properly, BlueTEC exhaust gas aftertreatment must be operated with the reducing agent DEF.

When the DEF supply has almost run out, the Check Additive See Operator's Manual message is shown in the multifunction display.

When the DEF supply sinks to a minimum level, the Remaining Starts: 16 message is shown in the multifunction display.

Refueling 153

When the Remaining Starts: 16 message is shown in the multifunction display, you can start the engine 16 more times. If DEF is not added, it will not be possible to restart the engine. Fill the DEF tank with approx. 1 gal (3.8 l) DEF, or have it filled at a qualified specialist workshop.

i If you drive the vehicle faster than 10 mph

(16 km/h), the Check Additive See Operator's Manual message goes off after approximately one minute.

Further information about BlueTEC exhaust gas aftertreatment and DEF is available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Adding DEF

G WARNING Make sure

RDEF does not come into contact with skin,

eyes, or clothing

Rto keep DEF out of the reach of children

If you and/or others have come into contact with DEF:

RIf DEF has gotten into contact with eyes,

flush with plenty of water immediately and seek medical help.

RClean affected skin immediately with plenty

of water.

RIf DEF was swallowed, rinse mouth

immediately with plenty of water and drink plenty of water. Consult a physician.

G WARNING If you open the DEF tank cap, small amounts of ammonia vapor may be released. This depends in particular upon the age of the DEF.

Ammonia vapors have a pungent odor and are particularly irritating to:

Rskin

Rmucous membranes

Reyes

You may experience a burning sensation in your eyes, nose and throat, as well as coughing and watering of the eyes.

Do not inhale any ammonia vapors that may be released. Fill the DEF tank only in well- ventilated areas.

! Only use DEF in accordance with

ISO 22241. Do not mix any additives with DEF, and do not dilute DEF with water. This may destroy the BlueTEC exhaust gas aftertreatment system.

! The vehicle must be parked on level

ground to fill the DEF tank. The DEF tank can only be filled as intended with the vehicle parked on a level surface. This avoids false level readings. Filling the tank is not permitted if the vehicle is not parked on a level surface. There is a danger of overfilling, which could result in damage to components of the BlueTEC exhaust gas aftertreatment.

If the outside temperature is lower than Ò11 †, damage may occur when adding DEF. If DEF is frozen and there is an active warning indicator, adding may not be possible. Park the vehicle in a warmer place, e.g. in a garage, until DEF has become fluid again. Filling is then possible again. Alternatively, have the DEF tank refilled at a qualified specialist workshop.

! Rinse surfaces that have come into

contact with DEF immediately with water or remove DEF using a damp cloth and cold water. If the DEF has already crystallized, use a sponge and cold water to clean it. DEF residues crystallize after time and contaminate the affected surfaces.

! DEF is not a fuel additive and must not be

added to the fuel tank. If DEF is added to the fuel tank, this can lead to engine damage.

Further information on DEF (Y page 387).

154 Refueling

Opening the DEF filler cap

The filler neck for DEF is behind the fuel filler flap.

The fuel filler flap is unlocked or locked automatically when you open or close the vehicle with the SmartKey or with KEYLESS- GO.

X Switch off the ignition.

X Press the fuel filler flap in the direction of

arrow :. The fuel filler flap swings up.

X Turn blue DEF filler cap ;

counterclockwise and remove it. DEF filler cap ; is secured with a plastic strap.

DEF refill bottle

DEF refill bottles can be obtained at many gas stations or at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Refill bottles without a threaded cap do not provide overfill protection. DEF may leak if overfilled. Mercedes Benz provides special refill bottles with threaded caps. These are available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

X Unscrew the protective cap from DEF refill

bottle :.

X Place DEF refill bottle : on the filler neck as shown and screw it on clockwise until it is hand-tight.

! Only screw on the DEF refill bottle hand-

tight. It could otherwise be damaged.

X Press DEF refill bottle : in the direction of

the filler neck. The DEF tank is filled. This may take up to one minute.

i When DEF refill bottle : is no longer

pressed, filling stops and the bottle may be taken off again after being only partially emptied.

X Release DEF refill bottle :. X Turn DEF refill bottle : counterclockwise

and remove it.

X Screw on the cover of DEF refill bottle :

again.

Parking 155

Closing the DEF filler cap and fuel filler

flap

Unintended vehicle movement can cause serious personal injury or damage to the vehicle or the vehicle drivetrain. To reduce such risks, always do the following before turning off the engine and leaving the vehicle:

Rkeep your right foot on the brake pedal.

Rapply the electric parking brake.

Rshift the automatic transmission into park

position P.

Rslowly release the brake pedal.

Rwhen parked on an incline, always turn the

front wheels towards the road curb.

X Place DEF filler cap ; on the filler neck and

Rturn the SmartKey in the ignition lock to

turn it clockwise.

X To close the fuel filler flap, press it in the

direction of arrow :.

X Drive at a speed above 10 mph (16 km/h).

The Check Additive See Operator's Manual message disappears after approximately one minute.

i If the Check Additive See

Operator's Manual message continues to be shown in the multifunction display, you need to add more DEF.

Parking

Important safety notes

G WARNING Do not park this vehicle in areas where combustible materials can come into contact with the hot exhaust system. Do not park the vehicle on dry grassland or harvested grain fields. Combustible materials, such as grass, hay or leaves could be ignited by the hot exhaust system and cause a vehicle fire.

position 0 and remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock, or press the KEYLESS-GO Start/Stop button.

Rtake the SmartKey with you and lock the

vehicle when leaving.

Switching off the engine

Important safety notes

G WARNING Never switch off the engine while the vehicle is in motion.

There is no brake boost for the service brake if the engine is not running. If the ignition is switched off, there is also no power assistance for the steering.

You will require considerably more effort to steer and brake and you could therefore lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident.

G WARNING Keep in mind that turning off the engine alone only will shift the automatic transmission into neutral position N automatically.

Always shift the automatic transmission into park position P before turning off the engine.

Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

156 Parking

X Apply the electric parking brake.

X Shift the transmission to position P.

P, either of which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

Using the SmartKey

X Turn the SmartKey to position 0 in the

ignition lock and remove it. The immobilizer is activated.

i If you turn off the engine with the

SmartKey and then remove it from the ignition lock or open a front door, the automatic transmission shifts to P automatically.

Using KEYLESS-GO

Applying/releasing manually

X Press the Start/Stop button (Y page 139).

X To apply: press handle :.

The engine stops and all the indicator lamps in the instrument cluster go out.

i If you use the Start/Stop button to switch off the engine, the automatic transmission shifts to N automatically. If you then open one of the front doors, the automatic transmission shifts to P.

i In an emergency, the engine can be

turned off while the vehicle is in motion by pressing and holding the Start/Stop button for three seconds.

Electric parking brake

General information

i The electric parking brake performs a

function test at regular intervals while the engine is switched off. The sounds that can be heard while this is occurring are normal.

G WARNING When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Children could release the parking brake and/or shift the automatic transmission out of park position

The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up.

i The electric parking brake can also be applied when the SmartKey is removed.

X To release: pull handle :.

The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

i The electric parking brake cannot be

released unless the SmartKey is in position 1 in the ignition lock or the ignition has been switched on using the Start/Stop button.

To ensure that you don't roll backwards when pulling away on an uphill slope, engage the electric parking brake (Y page 141).

Applying automatically

Your vehicle's electric parking brake is automatically applied if DISTRONIC PLUS or the HOLD function bring the vehicle to a standstill, or are engaged to keep the vehicle stationary. In addition, at least one of the following conditions must be fulfilled:

Driving tips

157

Rthe engine is switched off.

During braking:

Rthe driver's door is open and the seat belt

is not fastened.

Ra warning tone sounds. Rthe Release parking brake message

Rthe vehicle is stationary for a lengthy

appears.

period.

The red F (USA only) or ! (Canada only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up.

Releasing automatically

Your vehicle's electric parking brake is automatically released if all of the following conditions are met:

Rthe engine is running.

Rthe transmission is in position D or R.

Rthe seat belt has been fastened.

Ryou depress the accelerator pedal.

If the transmission is in position R, the trunk lid must be closed.

If your seat belt is not fastened, the following conditions must be fulfilled to automatically release the electric parking brake:

Rthe driver's door is closed.

Ryou have shifted out of transmission

position P or you have previously driven faster than 2 mph (3 km/h).

Emergency braking

The vehicle can also be braked during an emergency using the electric parking brake. X While driving, push handle : of the electric

parking brake (Y page 156).

i The vehicle is braked as long as you keep

the handle of the electric parking brake pressed. The longer the electric parking brake handle is depressed, the greater the braking force.

Rthe red F (USA only) or ! (Canada

only) indicator lamp in the instrument cluster flashes.

When the vehicle has been braked to a standstill, the electric parking brake is engaged.

Parking the vehicle for a long period

If you leave the vehicle parked for longer than four weeks, the battery may be damaged by exhaustive discharge.

X Connect a trickle charger. i You can obtain information about trickle

chargers from a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center.

If you leave the vehicle parked for longer than six weeks, the vehicle may suffer damage as a result of lack of use.

X Visit aqu alified specialist workshop and

seek advice.

Driving tips

General driving tips

Important safety notes

G WARNING Always remember that you must concentrate primarily on driving the vehicle. The driver's concentration must always be directed primarily at road traffic. For your own safety and that of others, we recommend that you stop the vehicle at a safe place and in accordance with the traffic conditions before making or accepting a phone call.

Comply with all legal requirements if you use the telephone while driving. Use the hands- free system and only use the telephone when

158 Driving tips

road, weather and traffic conditions permit. In some jurisdictions, it is forbidden for drivers to use mobile phones while driving.

Do not drink or take drugs and drive or allow anyone to drive who has been drinking or taking drugs.

Only operate COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data System) in compliance with all legal requirements and when the road, weather and traffic conditions permit. You may otherwise not be able to observe the traffic conditions, endangering yourself and others.

Remember that your vehicle covers a distance of 44 feet (approximately 14 m) a second when it is traveling at only 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h).

Drive sensibly – save fuel

Observe the following tips to save fuel:

X The tires should always be inflated to the

recommended tire pressure.

X Remove unnecessary loads.

X Remove roof carriers when they are not

needed.

X Warm up the engine at low engine speeds.

X Avoid frequent acceleration or braking.

X Have all maintenance work carried out as

indicated by the service intervals in the Service Booklet or by the service interval display.

Fuel consumption also increases when driving in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic and in mountainous terrain.

Drinking and driving

G WARNING Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and driving are very dangerous combinations. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect your reflexes, perceptions and judgment.

The possibility of a serious or even fatal accident are greatly increased when you drink or take drugs and drive.

Pedals

G WARNING Make sure absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwell, make sure that the pedals still have sufficient clearance.

During sudden driving or braking maneuvers, the objects could get caught between the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. This could lead to accidents and injury.

Rolling with the engine switched off

G WARNING There is no power assistance for the steering and the brake when the engine is not running.

Steering and braking requires significantly more effort and you could lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident as a result.

Do not turn off the engine while the vehicle is in motion.

Exhaust check

G WARNING Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause unconsciousness 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 window fully open at all times.

Certain engine systems are designed to keep the level of poisonous components in exhaust fumes within legal limits.

These systems only work at peak efficiency when they are maintained exactly in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. For this reason, all work on the engine must be carried out only by qualified and authorized Mercedes-Benz technicians.

The engine settings must not be changed in any circumstances. Furthermore, all specific service work must be carried out at regular intervals and in accordance with the Mercedes-Benz service requirements. Details can be found in the Service Booklet.

Engine oil

! Vehicles with a diesel particle filter:

If the vehicle is mostly driven for short distances, it is possible that malfunctions may occur during the automatic cleaning of the diesel particle filter. This can lead to engine damage. Therefore, if you frequently drive short distances, make sure to drive on highways or inter-urban roads for 20
minutes at least every 310 miles (500 km).

Brakes

Important safety notes

G WARNING On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control.

G WARNING Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

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159

Downhill gradients

! On long and steep gradients, you must reduce the load on the brakes by shifting early to a lower gear. This allows you to take advantage of the engine braking effect and helps avoid overheating and excessive wear of the brakes.

When you take advantage of the engine braking effect, a drive wheel may not turn for some time, e.g. on a slippery road surface. This could cause damage to the drive train. This type of damage is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz warranty.

Heavy and light loads

G WARNING Depressing the brake pedal constantly results in excessive and premature wear to the brake pads.

It may also cause the brakes to overheat, seriously impairing their effectiveness. It may then not be possible to stop the vehicle in sufficient time to avoid an accident.

If the brakes have been subjected to a heavy load, do not stop the vehicle immediately, but drive on for a short while. This allows the airflow to cool the brakes more quickly.

Wet roads

G WARNING After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through water deep enough to wet brake components, the first braking action may be somewhat reduced. You have to depress the brake pedal more firmly. Maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.

After driving on a wet road or having the vehicle washed, brake firmly while paying attention to the traffic conditions. This will warm up the brake discs, thereby drying them more quickly and protecting them against corrosion.

160 Driving tips

Limited braking performance on salt-

treated roads

G WARNING The layer of salt on the brake discs and the brake pads/linings may cause adelay in the braking effect, resulting in a significantly longer braking distance, which could lead to an accident.

To avoid this danger, you should:

Roccasionally brake carefully, without

putting other road users at risk, when you are driving on salted roads. This helps to remove any salt that may have started to build up on the brake discs and the brake pads/linings.

Rmaintain a greater distance to the vehicle

ahead and drive with particular care.

Rcarefully apply the brakes at the end of a trip and immediately after commencing a new trip, so that salt residues are removed from the brake discs.

Servicing the brakes

! If the red brake warning lamp lights up in

the instrument cluster and you hear a warning tone while the engine is running, the brake fluid level may be too low. Observe additional warning messages in the multifunction display.

The brake fluid level may be too low due to brake pad wear or leaking brake lines.

Have the brake system checked immediately. This work should be carried out at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

All checks and maintenance work on the brake system must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop only. Have this work carried out at an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center.

Have the brake pads replaced and the brake fluid renewed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

G WARNING If brake pads or brake fluid other than those recommended are used, the braking properties of the vehicle can be degraded to an extent that safe braking is substantially impaired. This could result in an accident.

! A function or performance test should

only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. If you are planning to have the vehicle tested on such a dynamometer, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center to obtain further information first. Otherwise, you could damage the drive train or the brake system.

! As the ESP® system operates

automatically, the engine and the ignition must be switched off (SmartKey in position 0 or 1 in the ignition lock or Start/Stop button in position 0 or 1) while the electric parking brake is being tested on a brake dynamometer (maximum 10 seconds).

Braking triggered automatically by ESP® may seriously damage the brake system.

If your brake system is subject only to moderate loads, you should test the functionality of your brakes at regular intervals by pressing firmly on the brake pedal at high speeds. This improves the grip of the brake pads.

G WARNING Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

You can find a description of Brake Assist (BAS) on (Y page 61) or of BAS PLUS on (Y page 62).

Driving on wet roads

Hydroplaning

If water has accumulated to a certain depth on the road surface, there is a danger of hydroplaning occurring, even if:

Ryou drive at low speeds.

Rthe tires have adequate tread depth.

For this reason, in the event of heavy rain or in conditions in which hydroplaning can occur you must drive in the following manner:

Rlower your speed

Ravoid ruts

Rbrake carefully

Driving on flooded roads

! Do not drive through flooded areas.

Check the depth of any water before driving through it. Drive slowly through standing water. Otherwise, water may enter the vehicle interior or the engine compartment. This can damage the electronic components in the engine or the automatic transmission. Water can also be drawn in by the engine's air suction nozzles and this can cause engine damage.

i Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package: Set the raised level before driving through standing water.

Off-road fording

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161

Steel-spring vehicles

Vehicles with the AIRMATIC

package

Raised level

Fording

depth

20 in. (50 cm)

20 in. (50 cm)

REstablish how deep the water is and the

characteristics of the body of water before fording.

RVehicles with the AIRMATIC package: Select the highest possible vehicle level.

RRestrict the shift range to 1 or 2.

RAvoid high engine speeds.

REnter and exit the water at a flat place and

at a steady walking pace.

! Under no circumstances should you

accelerate before entering the water. The bow wave could cause water to enter and damage the engine and other assemblies.

RDrive slowly and at an even speed through

the water.

RDo not stop.

! Do not open any of the vehicle's doors while fording. Otherwise, water could get into the vehicle interior and damage the vehicle's electronics and interior equipment.

RWater offers a high degree of resistance,

and the ground is slippery and in some cases unstable. Therefore, it is difficult and dangerous to pull away in the water.

REnsure that a bow wave does not form as

you drive.

RClean any mud from the tire tread after

fording.

RApply the brakes to dry them after fording.

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Winter driving

General notes

G WARNING If the vehicle becomes trapped in snow, ensure that snow is kept away from the exhaust pipe and from around the vehicle as long as the engine is running. Otherwise, poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) may enter the vehicle, resulting in loss of consciousness and even death.

To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, open a window slightly on the side of the vehicle not facing the wind.

At the onset of winter, have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center.

result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control.

Drive particularly carefully on slippery road surfaces. Avoid sudden acceleration, steering and braking maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS.

If the vehicle threatens to skid or cannot be stopped when moving at low speed:

X Shift the transmission to position N.

i For more information on driving with

snow chains, see (Y page 353).

G WARNING Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when you apply the brakes.

i Vehicles with a diesel engine: do not

Off-road driving

cover the radiator, e.g. with a protective cover. The measuring function of the Onboard Diagnosis System may otherwise provide inaccurate values. Some of these values are required by law and must therefore always be accurate.

Driving with summer tires

Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 352).

Slippery road surfaces

G WARNING The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose.

Indicated temperatures just above the freezing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice. The road may still be icy, especially in wooded areas or on bridges.

G WARNING On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could

Important safety notes

G WARNING Grains of sand, particles of dirt and other abrasive materials can enter the brake system. This can lead to excessive wear and unpredictable braking efficiency.

After the brakes have been exposed to dirty conditions, have them checked and cleaned at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Otherwise, there is a risk that braking power may be insufficient in the event of an emergency, or that the braking effect may be unpredictable.

G WARNING Do not load items on the basic carrier bars. It may cause instability during some maneuvers which could result in an accident.

Drive slowly in unknown terrain. This will make it easier to recognize unexpected obstacles and avoid damage to the vehicle.

To help avoid the vehicle rolling over, never turn it around on steep inclines. If the vehicle

cannot complete the attempted climb, back it down in reverse gear.

Do not drive along the side of a slope. The vehicle might otherwise rollover. If in doing so the vehicle begins to show a tendency to roll, immediately steer into a line of gravity (straight up or downhill).

Never let the vehicle roll backwards in idle. You may lose control of the vehicle if you use only the service brake. For information on driving downhill, see "Driving downhill".

G WARNING Vehicles with air suspension program: Please be aware that by raising the vehicle level, the center of gravity also rises. Therefore, always ensure that the vehicle level is as low as possible. With higher ride height the ESP® may activate earlier in certain situations.

G WARNING Do not reduce the tire inflation pressure before driving through sand. However, if you do so, remember to correct the tire inflation pressure before continuing your trip. Driving with reduced tire inflation pressure increases the risk of losing control of the vehicle and rolling over.

General notes

Read this section carefully before driving your vehicle off-road. Practice by driving over more gentle off-road terrain first.

Familiarize yourself with the characteristics of your vehicle and the gear shift operation before driving through difficult terrain.

The following driving systems are specially adapted to off-road driving:

ROff-road ABS (Y page 61)

RAIRMATIC package (vehicle level)

(Y page 180)

RDSR (Downhill Speed Regulation)

(Y page 208)

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163

Observe the following notes:

RStop the vehicle before starting to drive

along an off-road route.

RFor vehicles with AIRMATIC package:

select a vehicle level that is suitable for the off-road terrain. Make sure there is always sufficient ground clearance to prevent damage to the vehicle.

RCheck that items of luggage and loads are

stowed safely and are well secured (Y page 288).

RAlways keep the engine running and in gear

when driving on a downhill gradient. Activate DSR (Y page 208).

RAlways keep the doors, tailgate, windows

and sliding sunroof closed while driving.

RAdapt your speed to the terrain. The rougher, steeper or more ruts on the terrain, the slower your speed should be.

RDrive slowly and at an even speed through the water. Ensure that a bow wave does not form as you drive.

RDrive with extreme care on unknown off-

road routes where visibility is poor. For safety reasons, get out of the vehicle first and survey the off-road route.

RLook out for obstacles such as rocks, holes,

tree stumps and furrows.

RCheck the depth of water before fording

rivers and streams.

RWhen fording, do not stop and do not

switch off the engine.

ROn sand, drive quickly to overcome the

rolling resistance. Otherwise, the vehicle could dig itself into the sand.

RDo not jump with the vehicle as this will

interrupt the vehicle's propulsion.

RAlways keep the engine running and in gear

when driving on a slope.

RDo not shift the automatic transmission to

transmission position N.

164 Driving tips

Checklist before driving off-road

X Engine oil level: check the engine oil and

add oil if necessary.

When driving on steep gradients, the oil level must be sufficiently high to ensure a correct oil supply in the vehicle.

X DEF tank (BlueTEC vehicles): check the

fluid level and, if necessary, refill to the maximum (13 l) (Y page 152).

X Wheel-changing tool kit: check that the jack is working and make sure you have the lug wrench, a robust tow cable and a folding