2009 Mercedes-benz R Class Owners Manual

G Warning! When closing the windows and the tilt/ sliding sunroof or panorama roof, make sure there is no danger of anyone being harmed by the closing procedure. If potential danger exists, proceed as follows: RRelease button j to stop the closing

procedure. To open, press and hold button k. To continue the closing

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procedure after making sure that there is no danger of anyone being harmed by the closing procedure, press and hold button j.

Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: RRelease the lock button on the outside

door handle to stop the closing procedure.

RImmediately pull on the same outside

door handle and hold firmly. The windows and the tilt/sliding sunroof or panorama roof will open for as long as the door handle is held but the door not opened.

With SmartKey The SmartKey must be in close proximity to the driver’s outside door handle. X Aim transmitter eye of the SmartKey at the

driver’s outside door handle.

Vehicles without panorama roof X Press and hold button j on the

SmartKey until the windows and the tilt/ sliding sunroof are completely closed.

X Release button j on the SmartKey to

interrupt the closing procedure.

Vehicles with panorama roof When tilt/sliding panel is opened: X Press and hold button j on the

SmartKey until the windows and the tilt/ sliding panel are completely closed. X Press and hold button j on the

SmartKey again. The roller sunblinds extend.

X Release button j on the SmartKey to

interrupt the closing procedure. When tilt/sliding panel is closed: X Press and hold button j on the

SmartKey until the windows and the roller sunblinds are completely closed.

X Release button j on the SmartKey to

interrupt the closing procedure.

With KEYLESS-GO The SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO must be located outside the vehicle within approximately 3 ft (1 m) of a door. X Close all doors.

Vehicles without panorama roof X Press and hold the lock button on an

outside door handle (Y page 87) until the windows and the tilt/sliding sunroof are completely closed.

X Release the lock button on the outside door handle to interrupt the closing procedure.

Vehicles with panorama roof When tilt/sliding panel is opened: X Press and hold the lock button on an

outside door handle (Y page 87) until the windows and the tilt/sliding panel are completely closed.

X Press and hold the lock button on an

outside door handle again. The roller sunblinds extend.

X Release the lock button on the outside door handle to interrupt the closing procedure.

When tilt/sliding panel is closed: X Press and hold the lock button on an

outside door handle (Y page 87) until the windows and the roller sunblinds are completely closed.

X Release the lock button on the outside door handle to interrupt the closing procedure.

Driving and parking Safety notes 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 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. G Warning! With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle. Adapt your driving accordingly.

Controls in detail

Driving and parking

Starting the engine 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.

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Controls in detail

Driving and parking Automatic transmission

Gearshift pattern for automatic transmission 1 Button for selecting park position P Á Park position  Reverse gear À Neutral position ¿ Drive position For more information on how to operate the gear selector lever, see “Automatic transmission” (Y page 136). X Make sure the automatic transmission is in

park position P. The transmission position indicator in the multifunction display should be on P (Y page 138).

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With SmartKey X Do not depress the accelerator pedal. X Gasoline engine: Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 3 (Y page 95) and release it. The engine starts automatically.

X Diesel engine: Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 2 (Y page 95). Preglow indicator lamp q in the instrument cluster comes on.

X As soon as preglow indicator lamp q goes out, turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 3 and release it. The engine starts automatically.

i If the engine is at operating temperature, preglow indicator lamp q may not stay on and you can start the engine without preglowing.

With KEYLESS-GO G Warning! As long as the SmartKey is in your vehicle, the vehicle can be started. Therefore, never leave children unattended in the vehicle, as

they could otherwise accidentally start the engine. When leaving the vehicle, always take the SmartKey with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. A child’s unsupervised access to a vehicle could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury. You can start your vehicle without the SmartKey in the starter switch using the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button in the starter switch. The SmartKey must be located in the vehicle.

KEYLESS-GO start/stop button 1 USA only 2 Canada only

X Make sure the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button is inserted in the starter switch.

i If you wish to start the engine with the

SmartKey instead of the KEYLESS-GO function, remove the KEYLESS-GO start/ stop button from the starter switch and proceed as described in “With SmartKey” (Y page 130).

X Depress the brake pedal during the starting

procedure.

X Do not depress the accelerator pedal. X Gasoline engine: Press the KEYLESS-GO

start/stop button once. The engine starts automatically.

X Diesel engine: Press the KEYLESS-GO

start/stop button once. The engine preglows and starts automatically.

i If the engine is at operating temperature,

the time the engine needs to preglow is reduced.

Starting difficulties ! Remember that extended starting

attempts can drain the battery.

The engine does not start. You can hear the starter. There could be a malfunction in the engine electronics or in the fuel supply system. Carry out the following steps: X If you are starting the engine with the

SmartKey: Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 0 and repeat the starting procedure.

X If you are starting the engine with KEYLESS- GO: Close any doors that may be open to allow for better detection of the SmartKey.

or X Remove the KEYLESS-GO start/stop

button from the starter switch.

X Start the engine with the SmartKey as radio

signals from another source may be interfering with the KEYLESS-GO function.

X Repeat the starting procedure.

Controls in detail

Driving and parking

If the engine does not start after several starting attempts: X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center or call Roadside Assistance.

The engine does not start. You cannot hear the starter. The battery may not be sufficiently charged. X Get a jump start (Y page 380). If the engine will not start despite a jump start: X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center or call Roadside Assistance.

The starter has been exposed to excessive temperatures. X Let the starter cool for about two minutes. X Repeat the starting procedure. If the engine does not start after several starting attempts: X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center or call Roadside Assistance.

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Controls in detail

Driving and parking Driving off 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.

! Do not run cold engine at high engine speeds. Running a cold engine at high engine speeds may shorten the service life of the engine. This is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

! If you hear a warning signal and the message Release Parking Brake appears in the multifunction display when driving off, you have forgotten to release the parking brake. Release the parking brake.

! Avoid spinning of a drive wheel. This may

cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

! Simultaneously depressing the

accelerator pedal and applying the brakes reduces engine performance and causes

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premature brake and drivetrain wear which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

i Once the vehicle is in motion, the

automatic central locking system engages and the locking knobs in the doors move down. The automatic door lock feature can be deactivated (Y page 158).

Automatic transmission G Warning! It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of park 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.

! Only shift the automatic transmission into reverse gear R or park position P when the

vehicle is stopped. Otherwise the automatic transmission could be damaged.

X Depress the brake pedal.

The gear selector lever can now be used. X Shift the automatic transmission into drive

position D or reverse gear R.

i Shifting the automatic transmission out of

park position P is only possible with the brake pedal depressed. Without the brake pedal depressed, the gear selector lever can be moved up or down, but the parking pawl remains engaged, not allowing shifting to occur.

X Wait for the gear selection process to complete before setting the vehicle in motion.

X Release the brake pedal. X If engaged, release the parking brake. X Carefully depress the accelerator pedal. After a cold start, the automatic transmission shifts at a higher engine revolution. This allows the catalytic converter (gasoline engine) or the oxidation catalyst (diesel engine) to reach its operating temperature earlier.

X Allow the engine and coolant to cool off. X Check the coolant level and add coolant if

necessary (Y page 251).

In case of accident If the vehicle is leaking fuel: X Do not start the engine under any

circumstances.

X Exit the vehicle at a safe distance from the

roadway.

X Notify local fire and/or police authorities. If the extent of the damage cannot be determined: X Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center or call Roadside Assistance. If no damage on major assemblies, fuel system, and engine mount can be determined: X Start the engine in the usual manner.

For more information on driving, see “Driving instructions” (Y page 279).

Problems while driving

The engine runs erratically and misfires RGasoline engine: An ignition cable may

be damaged.

RThe engine electronics may not be

operating properly.

RGasoline engine: Unburned gasoline may have entered the catalytic converter and damaged it.

X Give very little gas. X Have the problem checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

The coolant temperature is above 248‡ (120†) The coolant is too hot and is no longer cooling the engine. X Stop the vehicle in a safe location as soon

as possible.

X Turn off the engine immediately.

Controls in detail

Driving and parking

Parking G Warning! Do not park this vehicle in areas where combustible 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. To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, or damage to the vehicle or the vehicle drivetrain, as a result of vehicle movement, always do the following before turning off the engine and leaving the vehicle: RKeep right foot on the brake pedal. REngage the 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. RTurn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 0 and remove the SmartKey

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Controls in detail

Driving and parking

from the starter switch, or press the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button.

RTake the SmartKey with you and lock the

vehicle when leaving.

Parking brake G Warning! Engaging the parking brake while the vehicle is in motion can cause the rear wheels to lock up. You could lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident. In addition, the vehicle’s brake lights do not light up when the parking brake is engaged. 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 P, either of which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

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Turning off the engine G Warning! Do not turn off the engine before the vehicle has come to a complete stop. With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle.

i If the engine cannot be turned off as

described, see “Emergency engine shutdown” (Y page 387).

X Shift the automatic transmission into park

position P.

X Engage the parking brake.

i Always engage the parking brake in

addition to shifting the automatic transmission into park position P. When parked on an incline, also turn the front wheels towards the road curb.

i Observe instructions if you want the automatic transmission to remain in

1 Release handle 2 Parking brake pedal X Releasing: Pull on release handle 1. When the ignition is switched on or the engine is running, the brake warning lamp ; (USA only) or 3 (Canada only) in the instrument cluster goes out. X Engaging: Step firmly on parking brake

pedal 2. When the engine is running, the brake warning lamp ; (USA only) or 3
(Canada only) in the instrument cluster comes on.

neutral position N, see “Remaining in neutral position N” (Y page 137).

With SmartKey X Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to

position 0.

X Remove the SmartKey from the starter

switch. The immobilizer is activated.

If you turn off the engine using the SmartKey, and remove the SmartKey from the starter switch or open a front door, the automatic transmission will shift into park position P automatically. 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.

With KEYLESS-GO X Press the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button. With the driver’s door closed, the starter switch is now in position 1. With the driver’s door opened, the starter switch is set to position 0, same as the SmartKey removed from the starter switch (Y page 95).

If you turn off the engine using the KEYLESS- GO start/stop button and open a front door, the automatic transmission will shift into park position P automatically. 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.

i In an emergency you can turn off the

engine while driving by pressing and holding the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button for approximately 3 seconds.

Controls in detail

Driving and parking

If you have started the engine with the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button and cannot turn it off as described above: X Remove the KEYLESS-GO start/stop

button from the starter switch.

X Insert the SmartKey into the starter switch. The engine turns off. The starter switch is in position 0 (Y page 95).

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Controls in detail

Automatic transmission Automatic transmission Introduction For information on driving with an automatic transmission, see “Driving and parking” (Y page 129). 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 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.

! Allow engine to warm up under low load use. Do not place full load on the engine until the operating temperature has been reached. Avoid spinning of a drive wheel for an extended period when driving off on slippery road surfaces. This may cause serious damage to the engine and the drivetrain which is not

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covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

i During the brief warm-up, transmission

upshifting is delayed. This allows the catalytic converter (gasoline engine) or oxidation catalyst (diesel engine) to heat up more quickly to operating temperature.

Gear selector lever

G Warning! It is dangerous to shift the automatic transmission out of park 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.

! Only shift the automatic transmission into reverse gear R or park position P when the vehicle is stopped. Otherwise the automatic transmission could be damaged.

Gearshift pattern for automatic transmission 1 Button for selecting park position P Á Park position  Reverse gear À Neutral position ¿ Drive position

! The vehicle must be stopped when you

shift the automatic transmission Rdirectly between drive position D and

reverse gear R

Rdirectly between reverse gear R and

drive position D

Rdirectly into park position P Otherwise the automatic transmission could be damaged.

When trying to free a vehicle stuck in mud or snow, see “Rocking the vehicle” (Y page 140). i Shifting the automatic transmission out of

park position P is only possible with the brake pedal depressed. Without the brake pedal depressed, the gear selector lever can be moved up or down, but the parking pawl remains engaged, not allowing shifting to occur.

i The gear selector lever always returns to

its original position. The current transmission position P, R, N, or D appears in the multifunction display (Y page 138).

Shifting into park position P X With the vehicle at a standstill, press button 1 on the gear selector lever to select park position P.

SmartKey: When you turn off the engine using the SmartKey, and remove the SmartKey from the starter switch or open a front door, the automatic transmission will shift into park position P automatically. KEYLESS-GO: When you turn off the engine using the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button and

open a front door, the automatic transmission will shift into park position P automatically. 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.

i Moving the gear selector lever up or down

shifts the automatic transmission out of park position P.

Shifting into neutral position N X With the vehicle at a standstill, depress the

brake pedal and move the gear selector lever up or down to the resistance point to select neutral position N.

When you turn off the engine, the automatic transmission will shift into neutral position N automatically.

Controls in detail

Automatic transmission SmartKey: Removing the SmartKey from the starter switch or opening a front door after turning off the engine will shift the automatic transmission into park position P automatically. KEYLESS-GO: Opening a front door after turning off the engine will shift the automatic transmission into park position P automatically. Remaining in neutral position N If you want the automatic transmission to remain in neutral position N, e.g. when taking the vehicle through an automatic conveyor- type car wash, 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.

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Controls in detail

Automatic transmission With SmartKey: X Make sure the ignition is switched on. X With the vehicle at a standstill, depress the

brake pedal and keep it pressed.

X Shift the automatic transmission into

neutral position N.

X Release the brake pedal. X If engaged, release the parking brake. X Switch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the starter switch.

With KEYLESS-GO: X Make sure the ignition is switched on. X With the vehicle at a standstill, depress the

brake pedal and keep it pressed.

X Shift the automatic transmission into park

position P.

X Release the brake pedal. X Remove the KEYLESS-GO start/stop

button from the starter switch.

X Insert the SmartKey into the starter switch. X Switch on the ignition. X Depress the brake pedal and keep it

pressed.

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X Shift the automatic transmission into

neutral position N.

X Release the brake pedal. X If engaged, release the parking brake. X Switch off the ignition and leave the

SmartKey in the starter switch.

Shifting into reverse gear R X With the vehicle at a standstill, depress the

brake pedal and move the gear selector lever up past the resistance point to select reverse gear R.

Shifting into drive position D X With the vehicle at a standstill, depress the

brake pedal and move the gear selector lever down past the resistance point to select drive position D.

Shifting procedure The automatic transmission selects individual gears automatically, depending on: Rthe selected gear range (Y page 140) Rthe selected program mode C/S

(Y page 141)

Rthe position of the accelerator pedal Rthe vehicle speed With drive position D selected, you can influence transmission shifting by limiting or extending the gear range.

Transmission positions The current transmission position appears in the multifunction display.

1 Transmission position indicator

If the current transmission position does not appear in the multifunction display due to a malfunction, for example, make sure that the automatic transmission is in the desired position: X Shift the automatic transmission into drive

position D.

X Select program mode S. X Do not limit the gear range. X Drive off carefully.

Controls in detail

Automatic transmission

Effect

Effect

ì Park position

ë Neutral position

Shift the automatic transmission into park position P only when the vehicle is stopped. The park position is not intended to serve as a brake when the vehicle is parked. Rather, the driver should always engage the parking brake in addition to shifting the automatic transmission into park position P to secure the vehicle. If the vehicle’s electrical system is malfunctioning, the automatic transmission could remain locked in park position P. X Have the vehicle’s electrical system checked as soon as possible at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

í Reverse gear

Shift the automatic transmission into reverse gear R only when the vehicle is stopped.

No power is transmitted from the engine to the drive axle. When the brakes are released, the vehicle can be moved freely (pushed or towed). To avoid damage to the transmission, never shift the automatic transmission into neutral position N while driving. Exception: If the ESP® is deactivated or malfunctioning, shift the automatic transmission into neutral position N if the vehicle is in danger of skidding. ! Coasting the vehicle, or

driving for any other reason with the automatic transmission in neutral position N can result in transmission damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

ê Drive position

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Gear ranges With the automatic transmission in drive position D, you can limit or extend the gear range, see “One-touch gearshifting” (Y page 142). The current gear range appears in the multifunction display.

1 Gear range indicator

Controls in detail

Automatic transmission

Effect The automatic transmission shifts automatically. All forward gears are available.

Driving tips

Kickdown Use the kickdown when you want maximum acceleration. X Fully depress the accelerator pedal. Depending on the engine speed the automatic transmission shifts into a lower gear.

Canada vehicles only: X Depress the accelerator pedal past the point of resistance to use the kickdown.

Rocking the vehicle Rocking the vehicle by shifting the automatic transmission directly between drive position D and reverse gear R can help free a vehicle stuck in mud or snow. The engine control system of this vehicle electronically limits 140

directly shifting the automatic transmission between drive position D and reverse gear R to very low speeds, i.e. approximately 5 mph (9 km/h). To shift the automatic transmission directly between drive position D and reverse gear R, move the gear selector lever past the resistance point up or down.

Working on the vehicle G Warning! When working on the vehicle, engage the 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.

Towing a trailer X When you tow a trailer, shift into a lower

gear range manually if the automatic transmission hunts between gears on inclines. A lower gear range and reduction of speed reduces the potential to overload or to overheat the engine.

For more information on trailer towing, see the “Operation” section (Y page 283).

Effect

Automatic shift program

è With this selection you can use the

braking effect of the engine.

ç Allows the use of engine’s braking

power when driving Ron steep downgrades Rin mountainous regions Runder extreme operating

conditions

æ For maximum use of engine’s braking effect on very steep or lengthy downgrades.

Program mode selector switch C Comfort S Sport

For comfort driving

For standard driving

The current program mode appears in the multifunction display.

1 Program mode indicator

Controls in detail

Automatic transmission You should only change the program mode when the automatic transmission is in park position P. i The last selected program mode (C or S)

is switched on when the engine is restarted.

X Press the program mode selector switch repeatedly until the letter of the desired program mode appears in the multifunction display.

Selecting program mode C means: RThe vehicle starts out more gentle, both forward and reverse, except when driving off with full throttle.

RTraction and driving stability are improved

on icy roads.

RUpshifts occur earlier even when you give

more gas. The engine then operates at lower revolutions and the wheels are less likely to spin.

Selecting program mode S means that upshifts occur later.

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Controls in detail

Automatic transmission One-touch gearshifting With the automatic transmission in drive position D, you can limit or extend the gear range using the steering wheel gearshift contol.

Steering wheel gearshift control 1 Limiting gear range 2 Extending gear range

i You cannot shift with the steering wheel

gearshift control when the automatic transmission is in park position P, neutral position N, or reverse gear R.

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i If you press on the accelerator pedal

when the engine has reached the revolution limit of the current gear range, the automatic transmission will upshift beyond any gear range limit selected.

Canceling gear range limit X Pull and hold right gearshift control 2 until the gear range indicator disappears from the multifunction display. The automatic transmission will shift from the current gear range directly into gear range D.

Shifting into optimal gear range X Pull and hold left gearshift control 1.

The automatic transmission will select the gear range suited for optimal acceleration and deceleration automatically. This will involve shifting down one or more gears.

Limiting gear range 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.

X Briefly pull left gearshift control 1.

The automatic transmission will shift into the next lower gear as permitted by the shift program. This action simultaneously limits the gear range of the automatic transmission.

i To avoid overrevving the engine when

downshifting, the automatic transmission will not shift into a lower gear if the engine’s maximum speed would be exceeded.

Extending gear range X Briefly pull right gearshift control 2.

The automatic transmission will shift into the next higher gear as permitted by the shift program. This action simultaneously extends the gear range of the automatic transmission.

Emergency operation (limp-home mode) If vehicle acceleration becomes less responsive or sluggish or the automatic transmission no longer shifts, the automatic transmission is most likely operating in limp- home (emergency operation) mode. In this mode only second gear and reverse gear R can be selected. X Stop the vehicle in a safe location. X Shift the automatic transmission into park

position P.

X Turn off the engine. X Wait at least 10 seconds before restarting. X Restart the engine. X Shift the automatic transmission into drive position D (for second gear) or reverse gear R.

X Have the automatic transmission checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

Transfer case

The vehicle is equipped with all-wheel drive (4MATIC). Both the front and rear axles are powered at all times when the vehicle is being operated. ! Only conduct operational or performance tests on a two-axle dynamometer. If such tests are necessary, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. You could otherwise seriously damage the brake system or the transfer case which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

! Because the ESP® operates

automatically, the engine and ignition must be shut off (SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1 or KEYLESS-GO start/stop button in position 0 or 1) when the parking brake is being tested on a brake test dynamometer. Such testing should be no longer than 10 seconds. Active braking action through the ESP® may otherwise seriously damage the brake system which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Controls in detail

Instrument cluster

Instrument cluster Introduction For a full view illustration of the instrument cluster, see “Instrument cluster” (Y page 30). G Warning! No messages will be displayed if either the instrument cluster or the multifunction display is inoperative. As a result, you will not be able to see information about your driving conditions, such as speed or outside temperature, warning/indicator lamps, malfunction/ warning messages or the failure of any systems. Driving characteristics may be impaired. If you must continue to drive, please do so with added caution. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.

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Controls in detail

Instrument cluster

1 To dim instrument cluster illumination 2 Reset button 3 To brighten instrument cluster

illumination

Activating the instrument cluster The instrument cluster is activated when you Ropen a front door Rswitch on the ignition Rpress reset button 2
Rswitch on the exterior lamps

i Opening a front door or pressing the reset button without switching on the ignition or the exterior lamps activates the instrument cluster illumination only for 30 seconds.

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For information on changing the instrument cluster settings, e.g. the language, see (Y page 154).

Adjusting the instrument cluster illumination i The instrument cluster illumination is

dimmed or brightened automatically to suit ambient light conditions. The instrument cluster illumination will also be adjusted automatically when you switch on the vehicle’s exterior lamps.

i With the exterior lighting switched on, the

brightness of the switches in the center console will also be adjusted when using button 1 or 3.

X To brighten illumination: Press and hold

button 3 until the desired level of illumination is reached.

X To dim illumination: Press and hold

button 1 until the desired level of illumination is reached.

Resetting trip odometer X Make sure you are viewing the standard display (Y page 148) in the multifunction display.

X Press and hold the reset button in the

instrument cluster (Y page 143) until the trip odometer is reset.

Tachometer The red marking on the tachometer (Y page 33) denotes excessive engine speed. ! Avoid driving at excessive engine speeds, as it may result in serious engine damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

To help protect the engine, the fuel supply is interrupted if the engine is operated within the red marking.

The control system relays information to the multifunction display.

Multifunction steering wheel The displays in the multifunction display and the settings in the control system are controlled by the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel.

Control system Introduction The control system is activated as soon as the starter switch is in position 1 (Y page 95). The control system enables you to call up information about your vehicle and to change vehicle settings. For example, you can use the control system to find out when your vehicle is next due for maintenance service, to set the language for messages in the instrument cluster display, and much more. G Warning! A driver’s attention to the road and traffic conditions must always be his/her primary focus when driving. For your safety and the safety of others, selecting features through the multifunction steering wheel should only be done by the driver when traffic and road conditions permit it to be done safely. Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of 44 feet (approximately 14 m) every second.

Controls in detail

Control system

1 Multifunction display

2 Press button

s to take a call

to dial6
to redial6

t to end a call

to reject an incoming call

Press button æ ç

to select submenus in the Settings menu to set values to set the volume

Press button ! to turn Voice Control System on7, see separate operating instructions

3 Press button

to select next or previous menu

è ÿ

6 Function only available in telephone menu. 7 Vehicles without Voice Control System: Button without function.

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Controls in detail

Control system

Press button briefly

to move within a menu Within Audio/DVD menu to select previous or next track, scene or stored station. Within Telephone menu to switch to the phone book and select a name or number.

Press and hold button

Within Audio/DVD menu to select previous or next track with quick search or to select previous or next station in station list or wave band. Within Telephone menu to start the quick search in the phone book.

Press button 0 to turn Voice Control System off7, see separate operating instructions

Depending on the selected menu, pressing the buttons on the multifunction steering

wheel will alter what appears in the multifunction display. The information available in the multifunction display is arranged in menus and accompanying functions and submenus. The individual functions are then found within the relevant menu (radio or CD operations under Audio/DVD menu, for example). These functions serve to call up relevant information or to customize the settings for your vehicle. It is helpful to think of the menus, and the functions within each menu, as being arranged in a circular pattern. X Press button è or ÿ repeatedly to

pass through each menu one after the other.

X Press button k or j repeatedly to pass through each function display, one after the other, in the current menu.

In the Settings menu, instead of functions, you will find a number of submenus for calling up and changing settings. For instructions on using these submenus, see “Settings menu” (Y page 152).

7 Vehicles without Voice Control System: Button without function. 146

The number of menus available in the system depends on which optional equipment is installed in your vehicle.

Multifunction display

1 Trip odometer 2 Main odometer 3 Transmission position/gear range

indicator

4 Automatic transmission program mode

indicator

5 Outside temperature or digital

speedometer

For more information on menus displayed in the multifunction display, see “Menus and submenus” (Y page 147).

Menus and submenus

Controls in detail

Control system

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Controls in detail

Control system i The headings used in the menus table are designed to facilitate navigation within the system and are not necessarily identical to those shown in the multifunction display. The first function displayed in each menu will automatically show you which part of the system you are in.

Function

1 Standard display menu

(Y page 148)

2 Audio/DVD menu (Y page 149) 3 Navigation menu (Y page 151) 4 AIRMATIC/Compass menu

(Y page 151)

5 Vehicle status message memory8

menu (Y page 151)

6 Settings menu (Y page 152) 7 Trip computer menu (Y page 160) 8 Telephone menu (Y page 161)

Standard display menu In the standard display, the main odometer and the trip odometer appear in the multifunction display.

RCalling up digital speedometer or outside

temperature (Y page 149)

RCalling up maintenance service indicator

display (Y page 290)

Checking coolant temperature G Warning! 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. 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. Stop the vehicle in a safe location away from other traffic. Turn off the engine, get out of the vehicle and do not stand near the vehicle until the engine has cooled down.

X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the coolant temperature appears in the multifunction display.

Standard display 1 Trip odometer 2 Main odometer X If you see another display, press button

è or ÿ repeatedly until the standard display appears.

X Press button j or k to select the functions in the Standard display menu.

The following functions are available: RChecking tire inflation pressure

(Y page 261)

RChecking coolant temperature

(Y page 148)

8 The vehicle status message memory menu is only displayed if there is a message stored. 148

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.

X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the digital speedometer or the outside temperature appears in the multifunction display.

Digital speedometer

Outside temperature

During severe operating conditions, e.g. stop- and-go traffic, the coolant temperature may rise close to 248‡ (120†). ! Excessive coolant temperature triggers a

warning in the multifunction display. The engine should not be operated with a coolant temperature above 248‡ (120†). Doing so may cause serious engine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Calling up digital speedometer or outside temperature You can select whether the digital speedometer or the outside temperature appears in the multifunction display (Y page 155). G Warning! The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an ice-warning device

Controls in detail

Control system

Audio/DVD menu The functions in the Audio/DVD menu operate the audio or video equipment which you have currently turned on. If no audio equipment is currently turned on, the message AUDIO Off appears in the multifunction display. The following functions are available: RSelecting radio station (Y page 149) ROperating audio devices/audio media

(Y page 150)

ROperating video DVD (Y page 150)

Selecting radio station The HD-radio with SIRIUS satellite radio is treated as a radio application. For more information on HD-radio with SIRIUS satellite radio, refer to separate COMAND system operating instructions. Additional optional satellite radio equipment and a subscription to satellite radio service provider are required for satellite radio operation. Contact an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center for details and availability for your vehicle.

149

Controls in detail

Control system X Turn on the COMAND system and select radio. Refer to separate COMAND system operating instructions.

X Press button è or ÿ repeatedly until the currently tuned station appears in the multifunction display.

Example illustration 1 Wave band setting and stored memory

position

2 Station frequency X Select next or previous stored station:

Press k or j briefly to select a stored station.

X Select next or previous station in the

station list: Press and hold k or j to select a station.

X Select next or previous station in wave

band (Only if no station list is available): Press and hold k or j to select a station.

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You can only store new stations using the corresponding feature on the radio. Refer to separate COMAND system operating instructions. You can also operate the radio in the usual manner.

Operating audio devices/audio media X Turn on the COMAND system and select the audio device or audio media. Refer to separate COMAND system operating instructions.

X Press button è or ÿ repeatedly until

the Audio/DVD menu appears in the multifunction display.

X Selecting previous or next track: Press

button k or j briefly.

X Selecting a track from the track list (quick search): Press and hold button k or j.

The current track does not appear during Audio AUX mode operation.

Operating video DVD X Turn on the COMAND system and select DVD-Video. Refer to separate COMAND system operating instructions.

X Press button è or ÿ repeatedly until

the Audio/DVD menu appears in the multifunction display.

Example illustration 1 Disc number 2 Current track

1 Disc number 2 Current scene X Press button k or j to select a

scene.

Navigation menu The Navigation menu contains the functions needed to operate your navigation system. X Press button è or ÿ repeatedly until

the Navigation menu appears in the multifunction display. The message shown in the multifunction display depends on the status of the navigation system: RWith the COMAND system switched off,

the message NAV off appears in the multifunction display.

AIRMATIC/Compass menu The AIRMATIC/Compass menu displays the AIRMATIC messages and the direction into which you are currently driving. X Press button è or · repeatedly until one of the following messages appears in the multifunction display. Vehicles without AIRMATIC:

RWith the COMAND system switched on

but route guidance not activated, the direction of travel and, if applicable, the name of the street currently traveled on appear in the multifunction display.

RWith the COMAND system switched on

and route guidance activated, the direction of travel and maneuver instructions appear in the multifunction display.

Please refer to the COMAND system operating instructions for instructions on how to activate the route guidance system.

Vehicles with AIRMATIC:

For information on AIRMATIC, see “AIRMATIC” (Y page 166). For information on the compass, see “Vehicle submenu” (Y page 158) and “Compass” (Y page 241).

Controls in detail

Control system

Vehicle status message memory menu Use the Vehicle status message memory menu to scan malfunction and warning messages that may be stored in the memory. Such messages appear in the multifunction display and are based on conditions or system status the vehicle’s system has recorded. The Vehicle status message memory menu only appears if messages have been stored. G Warning! Malfunction and warning messages are only indicated for certain systems and are intentionally not very detailed. The malfunction and warning messages are simply a reminder with respect to the operation of certain systems. They do not replace the owner’s and/or driver’s responsibility to maintain the vehicle’s operating safety. Have all required maintenance and safety checks performed on the vehicle. Bring the vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center to address the malfunction and warning messages.

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Controls in detail

Control system X Press button è or ÿ repeatedly until

the Vehicle status message memory menu appears in the multifunction display. If conditions have occurred causing status messages to be recorded, the number of messages appears in the multifunction display:

X Press button j or k.

The stored messages will now be displayed in the order in which they have occurred. For malfunction and warning messages, see “Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display” (Y page 305). i After you have scrolled through all recorded status messages, the first recorded message appears again.

Should the vehicle’s system record any conditions while driving, the number of messages will reappear in the multifunction display when the SmartKey in the starter

152

switch is turned to position 0 or removed from the starter switch. With KEYLESS-GO, the number of messages will reappear when you turn off the engine by pressing the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button and open the driver’s door. Except for high-priority messages, the vehicle status message memory will be cleared when you switch off the ignition.

Settings menu

Introduction In the Settings menu there are two functions: The function To reset, press reset button for 3 seconds, with which you can reset all the settings to the original factory settings and a collection of submenus with which you can make individual settings for your vehicle. The following settings and submenus are available in the Settings menu: RResetting to factory settings (Y page 152) RSubmenus in the Settings menu

(Y page 153)

RInstrument cluster submenu (Y page 154)

RTime/Date submenu (Y page 155) RLighting submenu (Y page 156) RVehicle submenu (Y page 158) RComfort submenu (Y page 158)

Resetting to factory settings You can reset the functions of all submenus to the factory settings. For safety reasons, the function Lamp Circuit Headlamp in the Lighting submenu cannot be reset while driving. The following message appears in the multifunction display: Settings Cannot be completely reset to factory settings while driving. X Press button è or ÿ repeatedly until

the Settings menu appears in the multifunction display.

Controls in detail

Control system

Submenus in the Settings menu X Press button è or ÿ repeatedly until

the Settings menu appears in the multifunction display.

k to move to the previous function within that submenu.

X Use button æ or ç to change the

settings of the respective function.

X Press the reset button in the instrument

cluster for approximately 3 seconds.

X Press button j.

The collection of the submenus appears in the multifunction display. There are more submenus than can be simultaneously displayed.

X Press the reset button once more.

The functions of all the submenus will be reset to factory settings.

The settings you have changed will not be reset unless you confirm the action by pressing the reset button a second time. After approximately 5 seconds, the Settings menu reappears in the multifunction display.

X Press button ç.

The selection marker moves to the next submenu.

X Scroll down with button ç, scroll up

with button æ.

X With the selection marker on the desired submenu, use button j to access the individual functions within that submenu.

X Once within the submenu, use button

j to move to the next function or button

The following lists show what settings can be changed within the various menus. Detailed instructions on making individual settings can be found on the following pages. Instrument cluster submenu RSelecting speedometer display mode

(Y page 154)

RSelecting language (Y page 154) RSelecting display (digital speedometer or outside temperature) for status indicator (Y page 155)

Time/Date submenu RSetting the time (Y page 155) RSetting the date (Y page 155)

Lighting submenu RSetting daytime running lamp mode (USA

only) (Y page 156)

RSetting locator lighting (Y page 156)

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Controls in detail

Control system RSetting night security illumination

(Headlamps delayed shut-off feature) (Y page 157)

RSetting interior lighting delayed shut-off

(Y page 158)

Vehicle submenu RSetting automatic cental locking

(Y page 158)

Comfort submenu RActivating easy-entry/exit feature

(Y page 159)

RSetting fold-in function for exterior rear

view mirrors (Y page 159)

Instrument cluster submenu Access the Instrument Cluster submenu via the Settings menu. Use the Instrument Cluster submenu to change the instrument cluster display settings.

154

The following functions are available: RSelecting speedometer display mode

(Y page 154)

RSelecting language (Y page 154) RSelecting display (digital speedometer or outside temperature) for status indicator (Y page 155)

Selecting speedometer display mode X Move the selection marker with button

æ or ç to the Instrument Cluster submenu.

X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the message Display Unit Digital Speedometer appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

X Press button æ or ç to set speedometer unit to Km or Miles.

Selecting language X Move the selection marker with button

æ or ç to the Instrument Cluster submenu.

X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the message Language appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

X Press button æ or ç to select the language to be used for the multifunction display messages.

Selecting display (digital speedometer or outside temperature) for status indicator X Move the selection marker with button

æ or ç to the Instrument Cluster submenu.

X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the message Status Line Display appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

X Press button æ or ç to select the

desired setting. The selected display is then shown continuously in the status indicator (lower display). The other display now appears in the Standard display menu (Y page 148).

Time/Date submenu Access the Time/Date submenu via the Settings menu. Use the Time/Date submenu to change the time and date display settings. The following functions are available: RSetting the time (Y page 155) RSetting the date (Y page 155) If your vehicle is equipped with the COMAND system and navigation module, see separate COMAND system operating instructions for information on how to set the time and date. Setting the time This function is not available if your vehicle is equipped with the COMAND system and navigation module. X Move the selection marker with button

æ or ç to the Time/Date submenu. X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the message Clock Set Hour or Clock Set Minute(s) appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

Controls in detail

Control system

Example illustration for setting the hour X Press button æ or ç to set the hours

or minute(s).

Setting the date This function is not available if your vehicle is equipped with the COMAND system and navigation module. X Move the selection marker with button

æ or ç to the Time/Date submenu. X Press button j or k repeatedly until the message Date Set Month, Date Set Day, or Date Set Year appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

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Controls in detail

Control system

Example illustration for setting the month X Press button æ or ç to set the

month, day, or year.

Lighting submenu Access the Lighting submenu via the Settings menu. Use the Lighting submenu to change the lamp and lighting settings on your vehicle. The following functions are available: RSetting daytime running lamp mode (USA

only) (Y page 156)

RSetting locator lighting (Y page 156) RSetting night security illumination

(Y page 157)

RSetting interior lighting delayed shut-off

(Y page 158)

156

Setting daytime running lamp mode (USA only) X Move the selection marker with button

æ or ç to the Lighting submenu. X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the message Lamp Circuit Headlamp appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

X Press button æ or ç to select

manual operation (Manual) or daytime running lamp mode (Constant).

With daytime running lamp mode activated and the exterior lamp switch in position M or U, the low-beam headlamps are switched on when the engine is running.

In low ambient light conditions the following lamps will come on additionally: RParking lamps RTail lamps RLicense plate lamps RSide marker lamps For more information on the daytime running lamp mode, see “Lighting” (Y page 116). For safety reasons, changing the setting for the daytime running lamp mode is not possible while the vehicle is in motion. The following message appears in the multifunction display: Settings can only be made at a standstill. For safety reasons, resetting all the functions of all submenus to the factory settings while driving (Y page 152) will not deactivate the daytime running lamp mode.

Setting locator lighting With the locator lighting feature activated, the exterior lamp switch in position U and the interior lighting in automatic mode (Y page 121), the following lamps will come on during darkness when the vehicle is

unlocked using button k on the SmartKey: RParking lamps RTail lamps RLicense plate lamps RSide marker lamps RFront fog lamps The locator lighting goes out when the driver’s door is opened. If you do not open the driver’s door after unlocking the vehicle with the SmartKey, the lamps will go out automatically after approximately 40 seconds. X Move the selection marker with button

æ or ç to the Lighting submenu. X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the message Surround Lighting Function appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

Controls in detail

Control system

RSide marker lamps RFront fog lamps If, after turning off the engine, you do not open a door or do not close an opened door, the lamps will automatically go out after 60 seconds. X Move the selection marker with button

æ or ç to the Lighting submenu. X Press button j or k repeatedly until the message Headlamp Delayed Shut- off appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

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X Press button æ or ç to switch the

locator lighting function On or Off.

X Turn the exterior lamp switch to position

U when exiting the vehicle. The locator lighting feature is activated.

Setting night security illumination (Headlamps delayed shut-off feature) Use this function to set whether you would like the exterior lamps to remain on for 15 seconds during darkness after exiting the vehicle and closing all doors. With the headlamps delayed shut-off feature activated and the exterior lamp switch in position U before the engine is turned off, the following lamps will come on when the engine is turned off: RParking lamps RTail lamps RLicense plate lamps

Controls in detail

Control system X Press button æ or ç to switch the headlamps delayed shut-off feature On or Off.

X Turn the exterior lamp switch to position

U before turning off the engine. The headlamps delayed shut-off feature is activated.

You can temporarily deactivate the headlamps delayed shut-off feature: X Before exiting the vehicle, turn the

SmartKey in the starter switch to position 0.

X Then turn it to position 2 and back to

position 0. The headlamps delayed shut-off feature is deactivated. It will reactivate as soon as you start the engine.

Setting interior lighting delayed shut-off Use this function to set whether you would like the interior lighting to remain on for 10 seconds during darkness after you have removed the SmartKey from the starter switch.

158

X Move the selection marker with button

æ or ç to the Lighting submenu. X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the message Interior Lighting Delayed Shut-off appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

X Press button æ or ç to switch the interior lighting delayed shut-off feature On or Off.

Vehicle submenu Access the Vehicle submenu via the Settings menu. Use the Vehicle submenu to set the automatic locking.

Setting automatic central locking Use this function to activate or deactivate the automatic central locking. With the automatic central locking system activated, the vehicle is centrally locked at a vehicle speed of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h). X Move the selection marker with button æ or ç to the Vehicle submenu.

X Press button j or k repeatedly until the message Automatic Door Locking appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting.

X Press button æ or ç to switch the

automatic central locking On or Off.

Comfort submenu Access the Comfort submenu via the Settings menu. Use the Comfort submenu to activate the easy-entry/exit feature

(Y page 159) or to set the fold-in function for exterior rear view mirrors (Y page 159). Activating easy-entry/exit feature Use this function to activate and deactivate the easy-entry/exit feature (Y page 109). G Warning! You must make sure no one can become trapped or injured by the moving steering wheel when the easy-entry/exit feature is activated. To stop steering wheel movement do one of the following: RMove steering wheel adjustment stalk. RPress one of the memory position

buttons.

RPress memory button M. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Children could open the driver’s door and unintentionally activate the easy- entry/exit feature, which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury.

X Move the selection marker with button æ or ç to the Comfort submenu.

X Press button j or k repeatedly until

the message Easy-entry Function appears in the multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current