2013 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

Display messages Ø Check Additive See Operator's Manual Ø Remaining Starts: 16

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The DEF tank is almost empty. X Have the DEF tank filled as soon as possible at a qualified

specialist workshop (Y page 177).

The DEF level has fallen to a minimum. You can start the engine a further 16 times. X Have the DEF tank filled immediately at a qualified specialist

workshop (Y page 177).

i You can start the engine a further 16 times. If DEF is not added, it will then not be possible to restart the engine. Fill the DEF tank with about 1 gal (3.8 l) of DEF (Y page 177).

Driving systems Display messages À Attention Assist: Take a Break!

À Attention Assist Inoperative Á Drive More Slowly

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions Based on certain criteria, ATTENTION ASSIST has detected fatigue or a lack of concentration on the part of the driver. A warning tone also sounds. X If necessary, take a break. During long journeys, take regular breaks in good time so you get enough rest.

ATTENTION ASSIST is inoperative. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

You cannot change the vehicle level. Possible causes are: Ryou are driving too fast for the selected vehicle level. Ryou are towing a trailer. Rthe trailer-coupling socket is being used, e.g. for a bicycle rack. X Drive more slowly and then select the desired vehicle level

again. RVehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package (Y page 204) RVehicles with the AIRMATIC package (Y page 210) X Observe the notes on towing a trailer (Y page 253).

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303

Display messages Á Compressor Is Cooling

Á Malfunction

Á Max. Speed 12 mph

ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM Malfunctioning

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions You have selected a higher vehicle level. The compressor first needs to cool down because of frequent level changes. X Drive in a manner appropriate for the current vehicle level. X Make sure that there is sufficient ground clearance. X Allow the compressor to cool down.

When the compressor has cooled down, the display message disappears. The vehicle then continues rising to the selected level.

AIRMATIC is malfunctioning. X Drive in a manner appropriate for the current vehicle level, but

no faster than 50 mph (80 km/h).

X Make sure that there is sufficient ground clearance. X Have the vehicle checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

You are exceeding the speed permissible for the selected off-road level. In addition, the vehicle level display appears between the vehicle icon and the display message, and a warning tone sounds. G WARNING The vehicle could tip and rollover. There is a risk of an accident. X Adjust your driving style to the altered handling characteristics. X Only make slight steering movements and avoid fast steering

movements.

X Do not drive faster than 12 mph (20 km/h) until off-road level 2

has been reached.

The Active Curve System is faulty. The vehicle's handling characteristics may be affected. X Do not drive faster than 50 mph (80 km/h). X Have the vehicle checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

304 Display messages

Display messages ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM Malfunction See Operator's Manual

Á Raising Max. Speed 12 mph

Lowering Max. Speed 12 mph

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The Active Curve System is faulty. The vehicle's handling characteristics are severely impaired. A warning tone also sounds. G WARNING There is a risk of an accident. X Drive on carefully. X Adjust your driving style to the altered handling characteristics. X Avoid sudden acceleration in tight bends and fast steering

movements.

X Do not drive faster than 50 mph (80km/h). X Visit a qualified specialist workshop immediately. The vehicle is being adjusted to off-road level 3. The display message informs you of the maximum speed permissible for off- road level 3. X Do not drive faster than 12 mph (20 km/h). The vehicle is being lowered from off-road level 3 to off-road level 2. The display message informs you of the maximum speed permissible for off-road level 3. X Do not drive faster than 12 mph (20 km/h) until off-road level 2

has been reached.

The differential lock is malfunctioning. X Do not drive faster than 50 mph (80km/h). X Have the vehicle checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

Different. Lock Sys. Malfunction Different. Locking Sys. Cooling Down Please Wait LOW RANGE Stop Apply Parking Brake A gearshift process has been canceled. LOW RANGE is in the

The differential lock is too hot and has been disengaged. X Drive on carefully. X Allow the differential lock to cool down.

The differential lock reengages as soon as it has cooled down.

neutral position. There is no connection between the engine and the drive wheels. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Apply the electric parking brake. Do not continue driving under

any circumstances.

X Repeat the gearshift process.

Display messages LOW RANGE Malfunction To Park Apply Brake

LOW RANGE Max. Speed 25 mph

LOW RANGE Max. Speed 40 mph

LOW RANGE Shift to Position N Briefly

LOW RANGE Shifting Canceled Please Reactivate à Inoperative

ë Off Radar Sensors Deactivated See Operator's Manual

Display messages

305

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions LOW RANGE is malfunctioning. X Do not drive faster than 50 mph (80km/h). X When parking, secure the vehicle against rolling away

(Y page 179).

X Have the vehicle checked at a qualified specialist workshop. You have exceeded the maximum speed for the gearshift process. X Drive more slowly.

The gear change is made.

You have exceeded the maximum speed for the gearshift process. X Drive more slowly.

The gear change is made.

You have reduced the vehicle speed, but the automatic transmission is not in position N. X Briefly shift the automatic transmission to position N. The gearshift process has been canceled. X Repeat the gearshift process.

DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) is deactivated due to a malfunction. X Have DSR checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

The HOLD function is deactivated. The vehicle is skidding. A warning tone also sounds. X Reactivate the HOLD function later (Y page 207).

The radar sensor system is deactivated. X Switch on the radar sensor system (Y page 277).

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Display messages Lane Keeping Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual  or Active Lane Keeping Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual

Lane Keeping Assist Inoperative or  Active Lane Keeping Assist Inoperative Blind Spot Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual  or Active Blind Spot Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions Lane Keeping Assist or Active Lane Keeping Assist is deactivated and temporarily inoperative. Possible causes are: Rthe windshield in the camera's field of vision is dirty. Rvisibility is impaired due to heavy rain, snow or fog. Rthere are no lane markings for a longer period. Rthe lane markings are worn, dark or covered, e.g. by dirt or snow. When the causes stated above no longer apply, the display message disappears. Lane Keeping Assist or Active Lane Keeping Assist is operational again. If the display message does not disappear: X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Clean the windshield.

Lane Keeping Assist or Active Lane Keeping Assist is defective. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

Blind Spot Assist or Active Blind Spot Assist is temporarily inoperative. You have established the electrical connection between the trailer and your vehicle. X Press a on the steering wheel to confirm the display

message.

Blind Spot Assist or Active Blind Spot Assist is deactivated while towing a trailer.

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307

Display messages

Blind Spot Assist Inoperative or  Active Blind Spot Assist Inoperative Park Assist Canceled

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions Blind Spot Assist or Active Blind Spot Assist is temporarily inoperative. Possible causes are: Rthe sensors are dirty. Rfunction is impaired due to heavy rain or snow. Rthe radar sensor system is outside the operating temperature

range.

Rthe radar sensor system is temporarily inoperative, e.g. due to

electromagnetic radiation emitted by nearby TV or radio stations or other sources of electromagnetic radiation.

The yellow 9 indicator lamps also light up in the exterior mirrors. When the causes stated above no longer apply, the display message disappears. Blind Spot Assist or Active Blind Spot Assist is operational again. If the display message does not disappear: X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Clean the sensors (Y page 373). X Restart the engine. Blind Spot Assist or Active Blind Spot Assist is defective. The yellow 9 indicator lamps also light up in the exterior mirrors. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. The driver's door is open and the driver's seat belt has not been fastened. X Repeat the parking process with the seat belt fastened and the

driver's door closed.

You have inadvertently touched the multifunction steering wheel while steering intervention was active. X While steering intervention is active, make sure that the

multifunction steering wheel is not touched unintentionally.

The vehicle has started to skid and ESP® has intervened. X Use Active Parking Assist again later (Y page 217).

308 Display messages

Display messages Park Assist Inoperative

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions You have just carried out a large number of turning or parking maneuvers. Active Parking Assist will become available again after approximately ten minutes (Y page 217). X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Switch off and restart the engine. If the display message continues to be displayed: X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. PARKTRONIC is defective. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. The vehicle is parked. A warning tone also sounds. The display message disappears automatically.

If it was deactivated automatically, a warning tone also sounds.

Park Assist Finished DISTRONIC PLUS Off DISTRONIC PLUS has been deactivated (Y page 194). DISTRONIC PLUS Now Available DISTRONIC PLUS Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual

DISTRONIC PLUS is operational again after having been temporarily unavailable. You can now reactivate DISTRONIC PLUS (Y page 194). DISTRONIC PLUS is temporarily inoperative. Possible causes are: Rfunction is impaired due to heavy rain or snow. Rthe sensors in the radiator grill and the bumper are dirty. Rthe radar sensor system is temporarily inoperative, e.g. due to

electromagnetic radiation emitted by nearby TV or radio stations or other sources of electromagnetic radiation. Rthe system is outside the operating temperature range. Rthe on-board voltage is too low. A warning tone also sounds. When the causes stated above no longer apply, the display message disappears. DISTRONIC is operational again. If the display message does not disappear: X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Clean the sensors in the radiator grill and the bumper

(Y page 373).

X Restart the engine.

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309

Display messages DISTRONIC PLUS Inoperative

DISTRONIC PLUS Inactive

DISTRONIC PLUS --- mph

Cruise Control Inoperative Cruise Control --- mph

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions DISTRONIC PLUS is defective. BAS PLUS (Brake Assist PLUS) and PRE-SAFE® Brake may be inoperative as well. A warning tone also sounds. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. You have depressed the accelerator pedal. DISTRONIC PLUS is no longer controlling the speed of the vehicle. X Remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. An activation condition for DISTRONIC PLUS is not fulfilled. X Check the activation conditions for DISTRONIC PLUS

(Y page 194).

Cruise control is defective. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

A condition for activating cruise control has not been fulfilled. You have tried to store a speed below 20 mph (30 km/h), for example. X If conditions permit, drive faster than 20 mph (30 km/h) and

store the speed.

X Check the activation conditions for cruise control

(Y page 192).

310 Display messages

Tires Display messages Check Tire Pressure Soon

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The tire pressure loss warning system has detected a significant loss in pressure. A warning tone also sounds. G WARNING With tire pressures which are too low, there is a risk of the following hazards: Rthey may burst, especially as the load and vehicle speed

increase.

Rthey may wear excessively and/or unevenly, which may greatly

impair tire traction.

Rthe driving characteristics, as well as steering and braking, may

be greatly impaired.

There is a risk of an accident. X Stop the vehicle without making any sudden steering or braking maneuvers. Pay attention to the traffic conditions as you do so.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Check the tires and, if necessary, follow the instructions for a

X Check the tire pressures and, if necessary, correct the tire

flat tire (Y page 381).

pressure.

Check Tire Pressure Then Restart Run Flat Indicator Run Flat Indicator Inoperative Correct Tire Pressure

X Restart the tire pressure loss warning system when the tire

pressure is correct (Y page 406).

The tire pressure loss warning system generated a display message and has not been restarted since. X Set the correct tire pressure in all four tires. X Restart the tire pressure loss warning system (Y page 406). The tire pressure loss warning system is faulty. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. The tire pressure is too low in at least one of the tires, or the tire pressure difference between the wheels is too great. X Check the tire pressures at the next opportunity (Y page 406). X If necessary, correct the tire pressure. X Restart the tire pressure monitor (Y page 409).

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311

Display messages Check Tires

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped significantly. The wheel position is displayed in the multifunction display. A warning tone also sounds. G WARNING With tire pressures which are too low, there is a risk of the following hazards: Rthey may burst, especially as the load and vehicle speed

increase.

Rthey may wear excessively and/or unevenly, which may greatly

impair tire traction.

Rthe driving characteristics, as well as steering and braking, may

be greatly impaired.

There is a risk of an accident. X Stop the vehicle without making any sudden steering or braking maneuvers. Pay attention to the traffic conditions as you do so.

Warning Tire Malfunction

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Check the tires and, if necessary, follow the instructions for a

flat tire (Y page 381).

X Check the tire pressure (Y page 406). X If necessary, correct the tire pressure. The tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped suddenly. The wheel position is shown in the multifunction display. G WARNING If you drive with a flat tire, there is a risk of the following hazards: RA flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. RYou could lose control of the vehicle. RContinued driving with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-

up and possibly a fire.

There is a risk of an accident. X Stop the vehicle without making any sudden steering or braking maneuvers. Pay attention to the traffic conditions as you do so.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Check the tires and, if necessary, follow the instructions for a

flat tire (Y page 381).

312 Display messages

Display messages Tire Press. Monitor Currently Unavailable

TirePress. Sensor(s) Missing

Tire Pressure Monitor Inoperative No Wheel Sensors

Tire Press. Monitor Inoperative

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions Due to a source of radio interference, no signals can be received from the wheel sensors. The tire pressure monitor is temporarily malfunctioning. X Drive on.

The tire pressure monitor restarts automatically as soon as the problem has been solved.

There is no signal from the tire pressure sensor of one or several wheels. The pressure of the affected tire is not displayed in the multifunction display. X Have the faulty tire pressure sensor replaced at a qualified

specialist workshop.

The wheels mounted do not have a suitable tire pressure sensor. The tire pressure monitor is deactivated. X Mount wheels with suitable tire pressure sensors.

The tire pressure monitor is activated automatically after driving for a few minutes.

The tire pressure monitor is faulty. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

Vehicle Display messages Shift to 'P' or 'N' to Start Engine You have attempted to start the engine with the transmission in

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions

position R or D. X Shift the transmission to position P or N.

Auxiliary Battery Malfunction

Apply Brake to Shift from 'P'

The auxiliary battery for the automatic transmission is no longer being charged. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop at the next opportunity. X Until then, set the automatic transmission to position P before

you switch off the engine.

X Before leaving the vehicle, apply the electric parking brake. X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). You have attempted to move the transmission selector lever to position D, R or N without depressing the brake pedal. X Depress the brake pedal.

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313

Display messages Transmission Not in P Risk of Vehicle Rolling Away

Service Required Do Not Shift Gears Visit Dealer

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The driver's door is open and the transmission is in position R, N or D. A warning tone also sounds. X Shift the transmission to position P. X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). You cannot change the transmission position due to a malfunction. A warning tone also sounds. If transmission position D is selected: X Drive to a qualified specialist workshop without shifting the

transmission from position D.

Only Shift to 'P' when Vehicle is Stationary

If transmission position R, N or P is selected: X Notify a qualified specialist workshop or breakdown service. The vehicle is moving. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Shift the transmission to position P.

A The tailgate is open.

G WARNING When the engine is running, exhaust gases can enter the vehicle interior if the tailgate is open. There is a risk of poisoning. X Close the tailgate.

? The hood is open. G WARNING The open hood may block your view when the vehicle is in motion. There is a risk of an accident. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Close the hood.

C At least one door is open.

A warning tone also sounds. X Close all the doors.

314 Display messages

Display messages Ð Power Steering Malfunction See Operator's Manual

Phone No Service

¥ Check Washer Fluid Wiper Malfunctioning Hazard Warning Flashers Malfunctioning

SmartKey Display messages  Key Does Not Belong to Vehicle  Take Your Key from Ignition  Obtain a New Key

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The power steering is malfunctioning. A warning tone also sounds. G WARNING You will need to use more force to steer. There is a risk of an accident. X Check whether you are able to apply the extra force required. X If you are able to steer safely: carefully drive on to a qualified

specialist workshop.

X If you are unable to steer safely: do not drive on. Contact the

nearest qualified specialist workshop.

Your vehicle is outside the network provider's transmitter/ receiver range. X Wait until the mobile phone operational readiness symbol

appears in the multifunction display.

The washer fluid level in the washer fluid reservoir has dropped below the minimum. X Add washer fluid (Y page 368).

The windshield wipers are malfunctioning. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. The hazard warning lamps are faulty. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions You have put the wrong SmartKey in the ignition lock. X Use the correct SmartKey.

The SmartKey is in the ignition lock. X Remove the SmartKey.

The SmartKey needs to be replaced. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

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315

Display messages  Replace Key Battery  Don't Forget Your Key

 Key Not Detected  (red display message)

 Key Not Detected  (white display message)

 Key Detected in Vehicle

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The batteries of the KEYLESS-GO key are discharged. X Change the batteries (Y page 81).

This display message is displayed for a maximum of 60 seconds and is simply a reminder. You have opened the driver's door with the engine switched off. The KEYLESS-GO key is not in the ignition lock. X Remember to take the KEYLESS-GO key with you when you

leave the vehicle.

The KEYLESS-GO key is not in the vehicle. A warning tone also sounds. If the engine is switched off, you can no longer lock the vehicle centrally or start the engine. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Locate the KEYLESS-GO key. The KEYLESS-GO key is not detected while the engine is running because there is interference from a strong source of radio waves. A warning tone also sounds. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying

attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Operate the vehicle with the SmartKey in the ignition lock. The KEYLESS-GO key cannot be detected at present. X Change the location of the SmartKey with the KEYLESS-GO

functions in the vehicle.

If the KEYLESS-GO key is still not detected: X Operate the vehicle with the SmartKey in the ignition lock. The KEYLESS-GO key has been detected inside the vehicle during locking. X Remove the KEYLESS-GO key from the vehicle.

316 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Display messages  Remove 'Start' Button and Insert Key

 Close Doors to Lock Vehicle

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions KEYLESS-GO is temporarily malfunctioning or is defective. A warning tone also sounds. X Insert the SmartKey into the ignition lock and turn it to the

desired position.

X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. At least one door is open. A warning tone also sounds. X Close all doors and lock the vehicle again.

Diesel engine: preglow (Y page 159) Tire pressure monitor (Y page 329)

Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster Overview

Low-beam headlamps (Y page 121) Parking lamps (Y page 122) High-beam headlamps (Y page 124)

#! Turn signal (Y page 123) Seat belts (Y page 317) ü $ (USA) Brakes (Y page 318) J (Canada) Brakes (Y page 318) ÷ å F (USA)

ABS (Y page 319) ESP®(Y page 321) ESP® OFF (Y page 321) Electric parking brake (red) (Y page 324)

! (Canada) Electric parking brake (red)

·

(Y page 324) Electric parking brake (yellow) (Y page 324) SRS (Y page 324) Check Engine (Y page 325) Reserve fuel (Y page 325) Coolant (Y page 326) Distance warning function (Y page 328)

Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

317

Safety Seat belts

Problem

ü After starting the engine, the red seat belt warning lamp lights up for 6 seconds.

ü After starting the engine, the red seat belt warning lamp lights up. In addition, a warning tone sounds for up to six seconds.

ü The red seat belt warning lamp lights up after the engine starts, as soon as the driver's or the front-passenger door is closed.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The seat belt warning lamp reminds the driver and front passenger to fasten their seat belts. X Fasten your seat belt (Y page 56).

The driver's seat belt is not fastened. X Fasten your seat belt (Y page 56).

The warning tone ceases.

The driver or front passenger has not fastened their seat belt. X Fasten your seat belt (Y page 56).

The warning lamp goes out.

There are objects on the front-passenger seat. X Remove the objects from the front-passenger seat and stow

them in a secure place. The warning lamp goes out.

ü The red seat belt warning lamp flashes and an intermittent audible warning sounds.

The driver or front passenger has not fastened their seat belt. You are driving faster than 15 mph (25 km/h) or have briefly driven faster than 15 mph (25 km/h). X Fasten your seat belt (Y page 56).

The warning lamp goes out and the intermittent warning tone ceases.

There are objects on the front-passenger seat. You are driving faster than 15 mph (25 km/h) or have briefly driven faster than 15 mph (25 km/h). X Remove the objects from the front-passenger seat and stow

them in a secure place. The warning lamp goes out and the intermittent warning tone ceases.

318 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Safety systems

Problem $ (USA only) J (Canada only) The red brake system warning lamp comes on while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions G WARNING The brake boosting effect is malfunctioning and the braking characteristics may be affected. There is a risk of an accident. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying attention to road and traffic conditions. Do not continue driving under any circumstances.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

$ (USA only) J (Canada only) The red brake system warning lamp comes on while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds.

There is not enough brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir. G WARNING The braking effect may be impaired. There is a risk of an accident. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying attention to road and traffic conditions. Do not continue driving under any circumstances.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Do not add brake fluid. Adding more will not remedy the

malfunction.

X Consult a qualified specialist workshop. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

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319

Problem

The yellow ABS warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is deactivated due to a malfunction. For this reason, BAS (Brake Assist), BAS PLUS, ESP® (Electronic Stability Program), PRE-SAFE®, PRE-SAFE® Brake, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, the HOLD function, hill start assist and ESP® trailer stabilization are also deactivated, for example. ATTENTION ASSIST is deactivated. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The wheels could therefore lock if you brake hard, for example. The steerability and braking characteristics may be severely affected. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop. If the ABS control unit is faulty, there is also a possibility that other systems, such as the navigation system or the automatic transmission, will not be available.

320 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Problem

The yellow ABS warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions ABS is temporarily unavailable. Therefore, BAS, BAS PLUS, ESP®, EBD (electronic brake force distribution), PRE-SAFE®, PRE-SAFE® Brake, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, the HOLD function, hill start assist, and ESP® trailer stabilization, for example, are also deactivated. ATTENTION ASSIST is deactivated. Possible causes are: RSelf-diagnosis is not yet complete. RThe on-board voltage may be insufficient. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The front and rear wheels could therefore lock if you brake hard, for example. The steerability and braking characteristics may be severely affected. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is a risk of an accident. X Carefully drive a short distance on a suitable stretch of road, making slight steering movements at a speed above 12 mph (20 km/h). The functions mentioned above are available again when the warning lamp goes out.

If the warning lamp is still on: X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

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321

Problem

The yellow ABS warning lamp is lit while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds.

$ (USA only) J (Canada only) ÷å! The red brake warning lamp, the yellow ESP® and ESP® OFF warning lamps and the yellow ABS warning lamp are lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions EBD is malfunctioning. Therefore, ABS, BAS, BAS PLUS, ESP®, PRE-SAFE®, PRE-SAFE® Brake, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, the HOLD function, hill start assist and ESP® trailer stabilization, for example, are not available either. ATTENTION ASSIST is deactivated. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The front and rear wheels could therefore lock if you brake hard, for example. The steerability and braking characteristics may be severely affected. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

ABS and ESP® are malfunctioning. Therefore, BAS, BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE®, PRE-SAFE® Brake, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, the HOLD function, hill start assist and ESP® trailer stabilization, for example, are also not available. ATTENTION ASSIST is deactivated. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The front and rear wheels could therefore lock if you brake hard, for example. The steerability and braking characteristics may be severely affected. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

322 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Problem

÷ The yellow ESP® warning lamp flashes while the vehicle is in motion.

å The yellow ESP® OFF warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

÷å The yellow ESP® and ESP® OFF warning lamps are lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions ESP® or traction control has intervened because there is a risk of skidding or at least one wheel has started to spin. Cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated. X When pulling away, only depress the accelerator pedal as far as

necessary.

X Ease off the accelerator pedal while the vehicle is in motion. X Adapt your driving style to suit the road and weather conditions. X Do not deactivate ESP®.

In rare cases (Y page 71), it may be best to deactivate ESP®.

ESP® is deactivated. G WARNING If ESP® is switched off, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Reactivate ESP®.

In rare cases (Y page 71), it may be best to deactivate ESP®. X Adapt your driving style to suit the road and weather conditions. If ESP® cannot be activated: X Have ESP® checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

ESP®, BAS, BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE®, PRE-SAFE® Brake, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, the HOLD function, hill start assist and ESP® trailer stabilization are not available due to a malfunction. ATTENTION ASSIST is deactivated. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can thus increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

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323

Problem

÷å The yellow ESP® and ESP® OFF warning lamps are lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions ESP®, BAS, PRE-SAFE®, the HOLD function, hill start assist and ESP® trailer stabilization are temporarily unavailable. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake may also have failed. ATTENTION ASSIST is deactivated. Self-diagnosis is not yet complete. G WARNING The brake system continues to function normally, but without the functions listed above. The braking distance in an emergency braking situation can thus increase. If ESP® is not operational, ESP® is unable to stabilize the vehicle. There is an increased risk of skidding and an accident. X Carefully drive a short distance on a suitable stretch of road, making slight steering movements at a speed above 12 mph (20 km/h). The functions mentioned above are available again when the warning lamp goes out.

If the warning lamp is still on: X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Drive on carefully. X Visit a qualified specialist workshop.

324 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Problem F (USA only) ! (Canada only) The red electric parking brake indicator lamp flashes or lights up and/or warning lamp for the electric parking brake lights up.

The red SRS warning lamp is lit while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

There is a malfunction in the SRS (Supplemental Restraint System). G WARNING The air bags or Emergency Tensioning Devices may either be triggered unintentionally or, in the event of an accident, may not be triggered. There is an increased risk of injury. X Drive on carefully. X Have SRS checked at a qualified specialist workshop

immediately.

For further information about SRS, see (Y page 43).

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325

Engine Problem

The yellow Check Engine warning lamp lights up while the engine is running.

The yellow reserve fuel warning lamp lights up while the engine is running.

The yellow reserve fuel warning lamp flashes while the vehicle is in motion. In addition, the ; Check Engine warning lamp may light up.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions There may be a malfunction, for example: Rin the engine management Rin the fuel injection system Rin the exhaust system Rin the ignition system (for vehicles with a gasoline engine) Rin the fuel system The emission limit values may be exceeded and the engine may be running in emergency mode. X Have the vehicle checked as soon as possible at a qualified

specialist workshop.

i In some states, you must immediately visit a qualified

specialist workshop as soon as the yellow Check Engine warning lamp lights up. This is due to the legal requirements in effect in these states. If in doubt, check whether such legal regulations apply in the state in which you are currently driving.

Vehicles with a diesel engine: the fuel tank has been run dry (Y page 176). X Start the engine three to four times after refueling.

If the yellow Check Engine warning lamp goes out, emergency running mode is canceled. The vehicle need not be checked.

The fuel level has dropped into the reserve range. X Refuel at the nearest gas station.

The fuel system pressure is too low. The fuel filler cap is not closed correctly or the fuel system is leaking. X Check that the fuel filler cap is correctly closed. X If the fuel filler cap is not correctly closed: close the fuel filler

X If the fuel filler cap is closed: visit a qualified specialist

cap.

workshop.

326 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Problem

The red coolant warning lamp lights up while the engine is running and the coolant temperature gauge is at the start of the scale.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The temperature sensor for the coolant temperature gauge is defective. The coolant temperature is no longer being monitored. There is a risk of engine damage if the coolant temperature is too high. X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely and switch off the engine, paying attention to road and traffic conditions. Do not continue driving under any circumstances.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Consult a qualified specialist workshop.

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327

Problem

The red coolant warning lamp comes on while the engine is running.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The coolant level is too low. ! Avoid making long journeys with too little coolant in the engine

cooling system. The engine will otherwise be damaged.

If the coolant level is correct, the airflow to the engine radiator may be blocked or the electric engine radiator fan may be malfunctioning. The coolant is too hot and the engine is no longer being cooled sufficiently. X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely and switch off the engine,

paying attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Leave the vehicle and keep a safe distance from the vehicle until

the engine has cooled down.

X Check the coolant level and add coolant, observing the warning

notes (Y page 367).

X If you need to add coolant more often than usual, have the

engine coolant system checked.

The red coolant warning lamp comes on while the engine is running. A warning tone also sounds.

X Make sure that the air supply to the engine radiator is not

blocked, e.g. by snow, slush or ice.

X Do not start the engine again until the coolant temperature is under 248 ‡ (120 †). Otherwise, the engine could be damaged.

X Drive to the nearest qualified specialist workshop. X Avoid subjecting the engine to heavy loads, e.g. driving in

mountainous terrain, and stop-and-go traffic.

The coolant temperature has exceeded 248 ‡ (120 †). The airflow to the engine radiator may be blocked or the coolant level may be too low. G WARNING The engine is not being cooled sufficiently and may be damaged. Do not drive when your engine is overheated. This can cause some fluids which may have leaked into the engine compartment to catch fire. Steam from the overheated engine can also cause serious burns which can occur just by opening the hood. There is a risk of injury.

328 Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster

Problem

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions X Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction

display.

X Pull over and stop the vehicle safely and switch off the engine,

paying attention to road and traffic conditions.

X Secure the vehicle against rolling away (Y page 179). X Leave the vehicle and keep a safe distance from the vehicle until

the engine has cooled down.

X Check the coolant level and add coolant, observing the warning

notes (Y page 367).

X If you need to add coolant more often than usual, have the

engine coolant system checked.

X Make sure that the air supply to the engine radiator is not

blocked, e.g. by snow, slush or ice.

X At coolant temperatures under 248 ‡ (120 †), drive to the next

qualified specialist workshop.

X Avoid subjecting the engine to heavy loads, e.g. driving in

mountainous terrain, and stop-and-go traffic.

Driving systems Problem

· The red distance warning function warning lamp comes on while the vehicle is moving. A warning tone also sounds.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions You are approaching a vehicle or a stationary obstacle in your line of travel at too high a speed. X Be prepared to brake immediately. X Pay careful attention to the traffic situation. You may have to

brake or take evasive action.

Further information on DISTRONIC PLUS (Y page 194). Further information on PRE-SAFE® Brake (Y page 73). Further information on the distance warning function