E-classOperator’s Manual

E 320E 430E 55 AMG

E 300E 320

E 430E 55 AMG

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Product informationKindly observe the following in your own best interests:We recommend using Mercedes-Benz original parts as well as conversion parts and accessories explicitly approved by us foryour vehicle model.

We have subjected these parts to a special test in which their reliability, safety and their special suitability for Mercedes-Benzvehicles have been determined.

We are unable to make an assessment for other products and therefore cannot be held responsible for them, even if in individual casesan official approval or authorization by governmental or other agencies should exist. Use of such parts and accessories couldadversely affect the safety performance or reliability of your vehicle. Please do not use them.

Mercedes-Benz original parts as well as conversion parts and accessories approved by us are available at your Mercedes-Benzauthorized dealer where you will receive comprehensive information, also on permissible technical modifications, and whereproper installation will be performed.

Printed in the U.S.A.

We reserve the right to modify the technical details of the vehicle as given in the data and illustrations ofthis Owner's Manual. Reprinting, translation and copying, even of excerpts, is not permitted without ourprior authorization in writing.Press time 09/30/98 MBNA/TI

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Operator's manual

Our company and staff congratulate you on the purchase of your new Mercedes-Benz.

Your selection of our product is a demonstration of your trust in our company name. Further, it exemplifies your desire to own anautomobile that will be as easy as possible to operate and provide years of service.

Your Mercedes-Benz represents the efforts of many skilled engineers and craftsmen. To ensure your pleasure of ownership, and foryour safety and that of your passengers, we ask you to make a small investment of your time:

• Please read this manual carefully before putting it aside. Then return it to your vehicle where it will be handy for your reference.• Please abide by the recommendations contained in this manual. They are designed to acquaint you with the operation of your

Mercedes-Benz.

We extend our best wishes for many miles of safe, pleasurable driving.

Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft

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Introduction

This Owner's Manual contains a great deal of useful information. We urge you to read it carefully and familiarize yourself with thevehicle before driving.

For your own safety and longer service life of the vehicle, we urge you to follow the instructions and warnings contained in thismanual. Ignoring them could result in damage to the vehicle or personal injury to you or others. Vehicle damage caused by failure tofollow instructions is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.Your vehicle may have some or all of the equipment described in this manual. Therefore, you may find explanations for optionalequipment not installed in your vehicle. If you have any questions about the operation of any equipment, your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will be glad to demonstrate the proper procedures.

Owner's Service and Warranty Information

The Owner's Service and Warranty Information Booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering your Mercedes-Benz, including:

• New Car Limited Warranty,• Emission System Warranty,• Emission Performance Warranty,• California and Massachusetts Emission Control System Warranty (California and Massachusetts only),• State Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon Laws).

Important Notice for California Retail Buyers of Mercedes-Benz Automobiles

Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, if Mercedes-Benz ofNorth America, Inc. or its authorized dealer fails to conform the vehicle to its express warranties after a reasonable number of repairattempts during the period of one year or 12 000 miles from original delivery of the vehicle. A reasonable number of repair attempts ispresumed for a retail buyer (1) if the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of substantial nonconformities for a cumulative totalof more than 30 calendar days or (2) the same substantial nonconformity has been subject to repair four or more times and you haveat least once directly notified us in writing of the need to repair the non-conformity and have given us an opportunity to per-form the repair ourselves. Notifications should be sent to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Regional Office listed in the Owner'sService and Warranty Information Booklet.

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Maintenance

The Service Booklet describes all the necessary maintenance work which should be performed at regular intervals.Always have the Service Booklet with you when you take the vehicle to your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for service. Theservice advisor will record each service in the booklet for you.

Roadside Assistance

The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program provides factory trained technical help in the event of a breakdown. Calls to thetoll-free Roadside Assistance number:

1-800-FOR MERCedes (in the U.S.A.) 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada)

will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Representatives 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.For additional information refer to the Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program brochure in your glove box.

Change of Address or Ownership

If you change your address, be sure to send in the "Change of Address Notice" found in the Owner's Service and WarrantyInformation booklet, or simply call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the U.S.A. only) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes. Itis in your own interest that we can contact you should the need arise.If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all owner's literature with the vehicle to make it available to the next owner.If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in the "Notice of Purchase of Used Car" found in the Owner's Service and WarrantyInformation booklet, or call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the U.S.A. only) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes.

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Operating Your Vehicle Outside the U.S.A. or Canada

If you plan to operate your vehicle in foreign countries, please be aware that:

• service facilities or replacement parts may not be readily available,• unleaded gasoline for vehicles with catalytic converters may not be available; the use of leaded fuels will damage the catalysts,• gasoline may have a considerably lower octane rating, and improper fuel can cause engine damage.

Certain Mercedes-Benz models are available for delivery in Europe under our European Delivery Program. For details, consult yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer or write to:Mercedes-Benz of North America, Inc. European Delivery Department One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645In Canada write to:Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc. European Delivery Department 849 Eglinton Avenue East Toronto, Ontario M4G 2L5

We continuously strive to improve our product, and ask for your understanding that we reserve the right to make changes in designand equipment. Therefore, information, illustrations and descriptions in this Owner's Manual might differ from your vehicle.Optional equipment is also described in this manual, including operating instructions wherever necessary. Since they are special-orderitems, the descriptions and illustrations herein may vary slightly from the actual equipment of your vehicle.If there are any equipment details that are not shown or described in this Owner's Manual, your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer willbe glad to inform you of correct care and operating procedures.

The Owner's Manual and Service Booklet are important documents and should be kept with the vehicle.

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The First 1000 Miles (1500 km)

The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satisfied you will be with its performance later on.Therefore, drive your vehicle during the first 1000 miles (1500 km) at moderate vehicle and engine speeds.During this period, avoid heavy loads (full throttle driving) and excessive engine speeds.Avoid accelerating by kickdown. It is not recommended to brake the vehicle by manually shifting to a lower gear. We recommendthat you select positions "3", "2" or "1" only at moderate speeds (for hill driving).After 1000 miles (1500 km) speeds may be gradually increased to the permissible maximum.

Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip

See last page.

Maintenance

Approximately 30 days or 2 000 miles (2 000 km) prior to the next recommended service, the remaining distance or days aredisplayed in the multifunction indicator. See Flexible Service System (FSS) in Index.We strongly recommend that you have your vehicle serviced by your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer, in accordance with theService Booklet.Failure to have the vehicle maintained in accordance with the Service Booklet may result in vehicle damage not covered by theMercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Radio Transmitters

Warning!

Never operate radio transmitters equipped with a built-in or attached antenna (i.e. without being connected to an externalantenna) from inside the vehicle while the engine is running. Doing so could lead to a malfunction of the vehicle's electronicsystem, possibly resulting in an accident and personal injury.

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

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Introduction Rear Passenger Compartment Steering Lock 62Adjustable Air Outlet 28 Combination Switch 64

Product information 2 Car keys 29 Headlamp Cleaning System 65Operator's manual 4 Start Lock-out 30 Exterior Lamp Switch 66Consumer Information 162 Central Locking System 31 Night Security Illumination 67Problems with your vehicle 163 Radio Frequency and Inside Rear View Mirror 67Reporting Safety Defects 163 Infrared Remote Control 31 Exterior Rear View Mirror 68Index 166 Mechanical Keys 34 Ashtrays 70

Doors 35 Lighter 71Instruments and controls Central Locking Switch 36 Sun Visors 71

Trunk 38 Illuminated Vanity mirrors 71Instruments and Controls 10 Power Window and Sliding/Pop-Up Roof 39 Interior Lighting 72Instrument Cluster 12 Anti-Theft Alarm System 40 Storage Compartments 73Indicator Lamp Symbols 13 Power Seats, Front 42 Cup Holder 73Catalytic Converter 15 Multicontour Seat 45 Sliding Pop-Up Roof 74Starting and Turning Off Gasoline Engine 16 Heated Seats 46 Power Windows 75

Diesel Engine 17 Adjusting Steering Wheel 47 Parcel Net 76Driving Instructions 18 Arm Rest, Rear Bench 47 Trunk Lid Release Switch 77

First Aid Kit 47 Rear Window Sunshade 77Operation Head Restraints, Rear 48 Instrument Lamps 78

Cargo Tie-Down Hooks 48 Display Illumination 78Automatic Climate Control 24 Shelf below Rear Window 48 Trip Odometer 78Basic Setting – Automatic Mode 25 Seat belts and Supplemental Restraint

System (SRS)49 Clock 78

Defogging Windows 26 Seat belts 49 Garage Door Opener 79Defrosting 26 BabySmart Airbag Deactivation System 53 Cellular telephone 80Rear Window Defroster 26 Self Test 53Air Recirculation 27 Emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) 54 DrivingActivated Charcoal Filter 27 Airbag 55Front Center Console Compart. Ventilation 28 Child Restraint 60 Drinking and driving 82

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Parking Brake 82 Winter Driving 105 Manual Release of Fuel Filler Flap 142Driving off 82 Snow Chains 106 Roof Rack 143Automatic Transmission 83 Traveling Abroad 106 MERCEDES-BENZ Spare Part Service 143Cruise Control 88 Layout of Poly-V-Belt Drive 144Multifunction Indicator Practical Hints

Language Selection 90 Technical Data. Fuels,Multiple Malfunctions 90 Hood 108 Coolants, Lubricants etc.Temporarily Switching off 90 Checking Coolant Level 109 Consumer InformationDefective 90 Adding Coolant 109

Charge Indicator Lamp 91 Checking Engine Oil Level 110 Identification Labels 146Low Engine Oil Level Warning Lamp 91 Bleeding of Diesel Fuel System 111 Warranty Coverage 147Engine Oil Consumption 91 Automatic Trans. Fluid Level 111 Technical Data E 300 Diesel 148Fuel Reserve and Fuel Cap Placement Trunk Lamp 112 E 320 150

Warning 91 Spare Wheel, Vehicle Tools, E 430 152Tachometer 92 Storage Compartment 112 E 55 AMG 154Outside Temperature Indicator 92 Stowing Thongs in the Vehicle 112 Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants etc. 156Coolant Temperature Gauge 92 Vehicle Jack 113 Capacities 156Low Engine Coolant Level Warning Lamp 93 Wheels 113 Engine Oils 158Low Windshield and Headlamp Changing Wheels 117 Engine Oils Additives 158

Washer Fluid Level Warning Lamp 93 Tire in Inflation Pressure 119 Air Conditioner Refrigerant 158Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator Lamp 94 Exterior Lamps 120 Brake Fluid 158Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp 94 Battery 127 Vehicle with Gasoline EngineBrake Warning 94 Fuses 129 Premium UnleadedFlexible Service System (FSS) 95 Jump Starting 130 Gasoline 159Antilock Brake System (ABS) 97 Towing the Vehicle 131 Fuel Requirements 159Brake Assist System (BAS) 98 Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle 134 Gasoline Additives 159Electronic Traction System (ETS) 99 Electronic Main Key, Remote Control 138 Vehicle with Diesel EngineAcceleration Stability Program (ASR) 100 Front Head Restraint 140 Diesel Fuels 160Electronic Stability program (ESP) 104 Rear Seat Cushion 141 Coolants 161Emission Control 104 Emergency Operation of Sliding/Pop-Up Roof 141 Service and Literature 171On-Board Diagnostic System 104 Replacing Wiper Blades Insert 142 Check Regularly Before a Long Trip 172

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Instruments and ControlsFor more detailed descriptions see Index For adjustment of air outlets, refer to Automatic Climate Control (see Index).

1 Side defroster outlet 19 Hazard warning flasher switch

2 Side air outlet, adjustable 20 Central locking switch Indicator lamp for antitheft alarm system

3 Air volume control for side outlet 21 Right front seat heater switch

4 Exterior lamp switch 22 Glove box (illuminated with key in steering lock position 1 or 2)

5 Parking brake release 23 Automatic climate control, Rear window defroster switchActivated charcoal filter switch

6 Parking brake pedal 24 Audio system

7 Hood lock release 25 Storage/eyeglasses compartment

8 Combination switch 26 Ashtray with lighter9 Cruise control switch 27 ASR or ESP control switch10 Instrument cluster 28 Power window switches, front doors11 Horn, airbag 29 Power window safety, rear doors12 Gasoline engine: Steering lock with ignition/starter switch 30 Airbag Off indicator lamp13 Diesel engine: Steering lock with preglow/starter switch 31 Power window switches, rear doors13 Center air outlet, adjustable 32 Trunk lid release switch14 Air volume control for center outlet 33 Mirror adjustment switch15 Left front seat heater switch 34 Rear window sunshade switch16 Headlamp washer switch17 Rear seat heater restraint switch

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12

5 Left turn signal indicator lamp(green)

6 ASR, ESP or ETS warning lamp(yellow). See Index

7 Speedometer8 Trip odometer. See Index

Outside temperature indicator.See Index

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Main odometer10Clock. See Index

or8-11 Multifunction indicator, or FSS

indicator. See Index

12 Right turn signal indicator lamp(green)

13 Tachometer. See Index

Instrument Cluster14 Push buttons for setting clock.

See Index

1 Push buttons for intensity ofinstrument lamps. See Index

3 Coolant temperature gauge.See Index

15 Push button for resettingmultifunction indicator.See Index

2 Push button for resetting tripodometer. See Index

4 Fuel gauge with reserve andfuel cap placement warninglamp (yellow). See Index

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Engine oil level low. See Index

Coolant level low. See Index

Battery not being charged properly. See Index

Fluid level for windshield and headlamp washersystem low. See IndexExterior lamps are on. See Index

Take key.Remove electronic key from steering lock.FSS indicator. See Index

Parking brake engaged. See Index

Multifunction Indicator

If a malfunction occurs, the appropriate warning symbol appears,supplemented by a message in the field normally occupied by thedisplays for outside temperature, odometers, and clock.

In the case of more than one malfunction, symbols and messagesare displayed in sequence. Push reset button (R) for subsequentmessages.

A warning sounds at the beginning of each message.

Notes:

Refer to Multifunction Indicator in the Index for temporarilyswitching off a Warning Symbol and its message.

Warning message selection is available in the English,French, German, Italian, or Spanish language. See Index.

Indicator Lamp Symbols

Symbols and Warnings in the Multifunction IndicatorDisplay defective. See Multifunction Indicatorin Index

Brake pads worn down. See Index See Multifunction Indicator in IndexMultifunction indicator for several messages.

Exterior lamp failure. See Index

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Additional Lamp Symbols in the InstrumentCluster, and Warnings in the Multifunction Indicator

Function Indicator Lamps in the Instrument Cluster

Fasten seat belts. See Index. High beam

Brake fluid low (except Canada). Parking brake engaged.See Index.

Preglow (Diesel engine only). See Index

Brake fluid low (Canada only). Parking brake engaged.See Index.

ABS malfunction. See Index

BAS malfunction. See IndexETS malfunction. See Index

SRS malfunction. See

BAS malfunction. See IndexASR malfunction. See Index

ASR , ESP or ETS.Adjust driving to road condition. See Index

BAS malfunction. See IndexESP malfunction. See Index

Function Indicator Lampon the Center Console

Engine malfunction.If the lamp comes on when the engine is running, itindicates a malfunction of the 02-sensor on Federalversion vehicles, and fuel injection system oremission control system on the California versionvehicles. In either case, we recommend that youhave the malfunction checked as soon as possible.See Index.Passenger Airbag automatically switched off.

See Index

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Catalytic Converter

Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped withmonolithic type catalytic converters, animportant element in conjunction withthe oxygen sensors to achievesubstantial control of the pollutants inthe exhaust emissions. Keep yourvehicle in proper operating conditionby following our recommendedmaintenance instructions as outlined inyour Service Booklet.

Caution!

To prevent damage to the catalyticconverters, use only premium unleadedgasoline in this vehicle.

Any noticeable irregularities in engineoperation should be repaired promptly.Otherwise, excessive unburned fuelmay reach the catalytic convertercausing it to overheat, which couldstart a fire.

Warning!

As with any vehicle, do not idle, parkor operate this vehicle in areas wherecombustible materials such as grass,hay or leaves can come into contactwith the hot exhaust system, as thesematerials could be ignited and causea vehicle fire.

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Starting and Turning Off the Engine

Before Starting

Ensure that parking brake is engagedand that selector lever is in position "P"or "N". Turn electronic key in steeringlock to position 2.

Starting

Do not depress accelerator.

Briefly turn electronic key in steeringlock clockwise to the stop and release.The starter will engage until the engineis running.

If engine will not run, and the startingprocedure stops, turn electronic keycompletely to the left and repeatstarting the engine.

After several unsuccessful attempts,have the system checked at the nearestauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Important!

Due to the installed starter non-repeatfeature, the electronic key must beturned completely to the left beforeattempting to start the engine again.

In areas where temperatures frequentlydrop below -4°F (-20°C) werecommend that an engine block heaterbe installed. Your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer will advise youon this subject.

Turning Off

Turn the electronic key in the steeringlock to position 0 to stop the engine.

The electronic key can only beremoved with your foot off the brakepedal and the selector lever in position"P".

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Starting and Turning OffDiesel Engine

Before Starting

Engage parking brake and ensureselector lever is in position "P" or "N".Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

Starting

Turn electronic key to steering lockposition 2. Preglow indicator lampshould come on with cold engine. Thepreglow process starts. When thepreglow indicator lamp goes out, theengine is ready for starting.

Do not depress accelerator.

Briefly turn electronic key in steeringlock clockwise to the stop and release.The starter will engage until the engineis running.If engine will not run, and the startingprocedure stops, turn electronic keycompletely to the left and repeat startingthe engine.After several unsuccessful attempts,have the system checked at the nearestauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Turning off

Turn the key in the steering lock toposition 0 only when the vehicle hasstopped moving.

The key can only be removed with theselector lever in position "P".

Important!

Due to the installed starter non-repeatfeature, the key must be turnedcompletely to the left before attemptingto start the engine again.

If the preglow indicator lamp fails tolight up, or lights up while driving, thepreglow system is defective and shouldbe repaired at your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer at the earliestpossible date.

The engine is equipped with a blockheater to provide reliable starting attemperatures below 0°F(-18°C). Referto Winter Driving in Index.

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Driving Instructions

Warning!

If you feel a sudden significantvibration or ride disturbance, or yoususpect that possible damage to yourvehicle has occurred, you shouldturn on the hazard warning flashers,carefully slow down, and drive withcaution to an area which is a safedistance from the roadway.

Inspect the tires and under thevehicle for possible damage. If thevehicle or tires appear unsafe, have ittowed to the nearest Mercedes-Benzor tire dealer for repairs.

Power Assistance

Warning!

When the engine is not running, thebrake and steering systems arewithout power assistance. Underthese circumstances, a much greatereffort is necessary to stop or steer thevehicle.

Brakes

Warning!

After driving in heavy rain for sometime without applying the brakes orthrough water deep enough to wetbrake components, the first brakingaction may be somewhat reducedand increased pedal pressure may benecessary. Be sure to maintain a safedistance from vehicles in front.

Resting your foot on the brake pedalwill cause excessive and prematurewear of the brake pads.

It can also result in the brakesoverheating thereby significantlyreducing their effectiveness. It maynot be possible to stop the vehicle insufficient time to avoid an accident.

The condition of the parking brakesystem is checked each time thevehicle is in the shop for the requiredservice.

If the parking brake is released and thebrake warning lamp in the instrumentcluster stays on, the brake fluid level inthe reservoir is too low.

Brake pad wear or a leak in the systemmay be the reason for low brake fluidin the reservoir.

Have the brake system inspected at anauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealerimmediately.

All checks and service work on thebrake system should be carried out byan authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Install only brake pads and brakefluid recommended by Mercedes-Benz.

Warning!

If other than recommended brakepads are installed, or other thanrecommended brake fluid is used,the braking properties of the vehiclecan be degraded to an extent thatsafe braking is substantiallyimpaired. This could result in anaccident.

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Caution!

When driving down long and steepgrades, relieve the load on the brakesby shifting into a lower gear to use theengine's braking power. This helpsprevent overheating of the brakes andreduces brake pad wear.

After hard braking, it is advisable todrive on for some time, rather thanimmediately parking, so the air streamwill cool down the brakes faster.

Tires

Tread wear indicators (TWI) arerequired by law. These indicators arelocated in six places on the treadcircumference and become visible at atread depth of approximately 1/16 in(1.5 mm), at which point the tire isconsidered worn and should bereplaced.

The tread wear indicator appears as asolid band across the tread.

Warning!

Do not allow your tires to wear downtoo far. As tread depth approaches1/16 in (1.5 mm), the adhesionproperties on a wet road are sharplyreduced.

Depending upon the weather and/orroad surface (conditions), the tiretraction varies widely.

Specified tire pressures must bemaintained. This applies particularly ifthe tires are subjected to high loads(e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, highambient temperatures).

Warning!

Do not drive with a flat tire. A flattire affects the ability to steer orbrake the vehicle. You may losecontrol of the vehicle. Continueddriving with a flat tire or driving athigh speed with a flat tire will causeexcessive heat build-up and possiblya fire.

Aquaplaning

Depending on the depth of the waterlayer on the road, aquaplaning mayoccur, even at low speeds and withnew tires. Reduce vehicle speed, avoidtrack grooves in the road and applybrakes cautiously in the rain.

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Tire Traction

The safe speed on a wet, snow coveredor icy road is always lower than on adry road.

You should pay particular attention tothe condition of the road whenever theoutside temperatures are close to thefreezing point.

Warning!

If ice has formed on the road, tiretraction will be substantiallyreduced. Under such weatherconditions, drive, steer and brakewith extreme caution.

We recommend M+S rated radial-plytires for the winter season for all fourwheels to insure normal balancedhandling characteristics. On packedsnow, they can reduce your stoppingdistance as compared with summertires. Stopping distance, however, isstill considerably greater than when theroad is not snow or ice covered.

Tire Speed Rating

E 300 Turbodiesel, E 320 and E 430:Your vehicle is factory equipped with"H"-rated tires, which have a Europeanspeed rating of 130 mph(210 km/h).An electronic speed limiter for models E320 and E 430 prevents your vehiclefrom exceeding the speed rating.

Model E 55 AMG:

Your vehicle is factory equipped with"Z"-rated tires.

An electronic speed limiter preventsyour vehicle from exceeding a speed of155 mph (250 km/h).

Despite the tire rating, local speedlimits should be obeyed. Use prudentdriving speeds appropriate to prevailingconditions.

Warning!

Even when permitted by law, neveroperate a vehicle at speeds greaterthan the maximum speed rating ofthe tires.

Exceeding the maximum speed forwhich tires are rated can lead tosudden tire failure causing loss ofvehicle control and resulting inpersonal injury and possible death.

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Parking

Warning!

To reduce the risk of personal injuryas a result of vehicle movement,before turning off the engine andleaving the vehicle always:

1. Keep right foot on brakepedal.

2. Firmly depress parkingbrake pedal.

3. Move the selector lever toposition "P".4. Slowly release brake pedal.

5. Turn front wheels towardsthe road curb.

6. Turn the electronic key tosteering lock position 0 andremove.

7. Take the electronic key andlock vehicle when leaving.

Important!

It is advisable to set the parking brakewhenever parking or leaving thevehicle. In addition, move selectorlever to position "P".When parking on hills, always set theparking brake.

Winter Driving Instructions

The most important rule for slippery oricy roads is to drive sensibly and toavoid abrupt acceleration, braking andsteering maneuvers. Do not use thecruise control system under suchconditions.

When the vehicle is in danger ofskidding, move selector lever toposition "N". Try to keep the vehicleunder control by corrective steeringaction.

Road salts and chemicals can adverselyaffect braking efficiency. Increasedpedal force may become necessary toproduce the normal brake effect. Wetherefore recommend depressing thebrake pedal periodically when travelingat length on salt-strewn roads. This canbring road salt impaired brakingefficiency back to normal. Aprerequisite is, however, that this bedone without endangering other driverson the road.

If the vehicle is parked after beingdriven on salt treated roads, the brakingefficiency should be tested as soon aspossible after driving is resumed whileobserving the safety rules in theprevious paragraph.

Warning!

If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow,make sure that snow is kept clear ofthe exhaust pipe and from aroundthe vehicle with engine running.Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide(CO) gases may enter vehicleinterior resulting in unconsciousnessand death.

To assure sufficient fresh airventilation, open a window slightlyon the side of the vehicle not facingthe wind.

The trunk is the preferred placeto carry objects.

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Deep Water

Caution!

Do not drive through flooded areas orwater of unknown depth.If you must drive through deep water,drive slowly to prevent water fromentering the engine compartment orpassenger compartment, being ingestedby the air intake, possibly causingdamage to electrical components orwiring, to engine or transmission that isnot covered by the Mercedes-BenzLimited Warranty.

Passenger Compartment

Warning!

Always fasten items being carried assecurely as possible.

In an accident, during hard brakingor sudden maneuvers, loose itemswill be thrown around inside thevehicle, and cause injury to vehicleoccupants unless the items aresecurely fastened in the vehicle.

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Operation

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Automatic Climate Control

The system is always at operationalreadiness, except when manuallyswitched off.

The automatic climate control onlyoperates with the engine running.

The temperature selector should be leftat the desired temperature setting. Thetemperature selected is reached asquickly as possible.

The system will not heat or cool anyquicker by setting a higher or lowertemperature.

1 Air volume control for center airoutlets, turn wheel up to open.

2 Air volume control for side airoutlet.To open air outlets: Turnwheel to position .To open defroster outlets: Turnwheel to position

3 Center air outlet, adjustable4 Side air outlet, adjustable5 Side defroster outlets6 Display and Controls

The automatic climate control removesconsiderable moisture from the airduring operation in the cooling mode.It is normal for water to drip on theground through ducts in the underbody.

The desired interior temperature can beselected separately for the left and rightside of the passenger compartment.

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Display and Controls

Press the desired button to activate,indicator lamp is on while activated.

Automatic mode

Raise temperature

Lower temperature

Defrost

Air recirculation

Activated charcoal filter

Rear window defroster

Air distribution, manual

Economy mode

Air volume, manual

Residual engine heatutilization.

Basic Setting - Automatic Mode

Press left and right button forautomatic mode.

Simultaneously press both andbuttons for temperature setting of

72°F.

Air volume and distribution arecontrolled automatically.

This setting can be used all yeararound.

Economy

The function of this setting correspondsto the automatic mode. However,because the air conditioningcompressor will not engage (fuelsavings), it is not possible to aircondition in this setting.

Press button to activate.

Press button once again to returnto previous setting.

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Special Settings(use only for short duration)

Defogging Windows

Switch off button.

Press left and right buttons.Press button repeatedly until air isdirected upward.

Turn wheels (2) to position toopen left and right air outlets (5).

Defrosting

Turn wheels (2) to position toopen left and right air outlets (5).Adjust air outlets upward. Pressbutton. Maximum heated andautomatically controlled amount ofair is directed to the windshield andside windows.

Press button once again to returnto previous setting.

Rear Window Defroster

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 2.

To select, press button.To cancel, press button again.

Note:

Heavy accumulation of snow and iceshould be removed before activatingthe defroster.

The rear window defroster consumes alarge amount of electrical power. Tokeep the battery drain to a minimum,turn off the defroster as soon as thewindow is clear.The defroster is automaticallyturned off after a maximum of 12minutes of operation.If several power consumers are turnedon simultaneously, or the battery isonly partially charged, it is possiblethat the defroster will automaticallyturn itself off. When this happens, theindicator lamp inside the switch startsblinking.As soon as the battery has sufficientvoltage, the defroster automaticallyturns itself back on.

Air Distribution

Press button repeatedly until therequested symbol is displayed.

Air Volume

Press - or +side of rocker switchuntil the requested blower

speed is attained. A choice of 7 blowerspeeds is available.

To switch the automatic climate controloff, press -side of rocker switchuntil symbol OFF is displayed.

The fresh air supply to the car interioris shut off.

While driving, use this setting onlytemporarily, otherwise the windshieldcould fog up.

To switch the automatic climate controlon again, press , , or +side of

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Air Recirculation

This mode can be selected to temporarilyreduce the entry of annoying odors ordust into the vehicle's interior.Outside air is not supplied to the car'sinterior.

To select, press button.To cancel, press button again.The system will automatically switchfrom recirculated air to fresh air

• after approx. 5 minutes at outsidetemperatures below approx. 40°F(5°C),

• after approx. 30 minutes, at outsidetemperatures above approx. 40°F(5°C),

• after approx. 5 minutes, if buttonis pressed.

If the windows should fog up from theinside, switch from recirculated air backto fresh air.

At high outside temperatures, the systemautomatically engages the recirculatedair mode thereby increasing the coolingcapacity performance, switching topartially fresh air within 20 minutes.

Dust Filter

Nearly all dust particles and pollen arefiltered out before outside air enters thepassenger compartment through the airdistribution system.

Note:

Do not obstruct the air flow by keepingthe air intake grille in front ofwindshield free of snow and debris.

Also keep the air intake grille in front ofwindshield free of snow and debris.

Activated Charcoal Filter

To select, press button.To cancel, press button again.

An activated charcoal filter markedlyreduces bad odors and re movespollutants from the air entering thepassenger compartment.

The blower speed is slightly increasedto supply a contant volume of air.The system switches automatically tothe air recirculation mode, if the carbonmonoxide (CO) or nitric oxide (NO ofthe outside air increases.

When pressing button or ‚the filter is also switched oft.

Notes:

The automatic air recirculation does notfunction when selecting the Economymode ‚ or the outside temperatureis below45°F (7°C).The activated charcoal filter should beswitched oft when windows fog up onthe inside, or if the passengercompartment needs to be quickly heatedor cooled down.

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Residual Engine Heat Utilization

With the engine switched off, it ispossible to continue heating the interiorfor a short while.

Air volume and distribution arecontrolled automatically.

To select:

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 1 or 0 or remove key.

Press button.

This function selection will not activateif the battery charge level is insufficient.

To cancel: Press button.

The system will automatically shut off

• if you turn electronic key insteering lock to position 2,

• after approx. 30 minutes,• if the battery voltage drops.

Front Center ConsoleCompartment Ventilation

The front center console compartmenthas its own air outlet.

To open: Push lever down.To close: Push lever up.

The air volume is dependent on thesetting of the

• air volume control• air distribution control• air outlets in the dashboard and

rear passenger compartment.

The air temperature is about the samethan that of the dashboard air outlets. Itcannot be regulated separately.

Note:

The compartment can get very warmdue to its confined space. When storingheat sensitive objects in thecompartment, close the air outlet whileheating the passenger compartment.

Also, do not obstruct the air outlet.

Rear Passenger CompartmentAdjustable Air Outlet

To open air outlet, rotate wheel (1)upward.The air outlet is adjustable.

Important!

This vehicle is equipped with an airconditioner system that uses R-134a(HFC: ozone-friendlyhydrofluorocarbon) as a refrigerant.Repairs should always be performedby a qualified technician, andrefrigerant should be collected in arecovery system for recycling.

29

Car Keys

Included with your vehicle are:

• 2 electronic main keys withintegrated radio frequency andinfrared remote controls plusslide out and removablemechanical key.

• 1 electronic reserve key withoutremote control functions, plusremovable mechanical key.

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle alwaysremove the electronic key from thesteering lock, and lock your vehicle.Do not leave children unattended inthe vehicle, or with access to anunlocked vehicle. Unsupervised useof vehicle equipment may causeserious personal injury.

Electronic main key with integratedradio frequency and infrared remotecontrol, plus slide out and removablemechanical key

The remote control (1) operates alllocks on the car.

The mechanical keys (2) work only inthe driver's door, trunk, and storagecompartment locks.

The mechanical key (2) can beremoved by sliding it out of the remotecontrol. To do so, move lock (3) indirection of arrow and slide themechanical key (2) in direction ofarrow (5).

In the case of using the mechanical keyfor lock operations, it can be extendedoutward. To do so, move lock (3) indirection of arrow, slide the mechanicalkey (2) in direction of arrow (4) until itlocks in place.

The remote control transmitter islocated in the electronic main key.

The infrared receivers are located inthe door handles.

Note:

Remove the mechanical key from theelectronic main key when using valetparking service. To prevent access totrunk or storage compartments lockthem separately.

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Electronic reserve key withoutremote control functions, plusremovable mechanical key.

The electronic reserve key (1) worksonly in the steering lock.

The mechanical key (2) works only inthe driver's door, trunk, and storagecompartment locks.

To use the mechanical key (2), removeit from its electronic reserve key (1).

Note:

We recommend that you carry theelectronic reserve key with mechanicalkey with you and keep it in a safe place(e.g. your wallet) so that it is alwayshandy. Never leave the electronicreserve key in the vehicle.

Obtaining Replacement Keys

Your vehicle is equipped with a theftdeterrent locking system requiring aspecial key manufacturing process. Forsecurity reasons, replacement keys canonly be obtained from your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

Start Lock-Out

Important!

Removing the electronic key from thesteering lock activates the start lock-out. The engine cannot be started.

Inserting the electronic key in thesteering lock deactivates the startlock-out.

Note:

In case the engine cannot be started,the system is not operational. Contactan authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer orcall 1-800-FOR-MERCedes.

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Central Locking System

Radio Frequency and InfraredRemote Control

The electronic main key has anintegrated radio frequency andinfrared remote control.Due to the extended operationalrange of the remote control, it couldbe possible to unintentionally lock orunlock the vehicle by pressing thetransmit button. A command receivedby the central locking system isacknowledged by the function controllamp blinking once.The vehicle doors, trunk and fuel fillerflap can be centrally locked andunlocked via remote control.

Opening and closing the windows andsliding/pop-up roof can only be donewith the infrared portion of the remotecontrol. Aim transmitter eye (5) at areceiver (6 or 7), press and holdtransmit button or

If the electronic key is inserted insteering lock, the vehicle cannot belocked or unlocked with the remotecontrol.

1 Transmit button

Locking

Unlocking

2 PANIC button3 Release button for

mechanical key4 Lamp for battery check

and function control5 Transmitter eye

6 Infrared receiver in driver's doorhandle

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7 Infrared receiver in passenger doorhandle

Locking and Unlocking

Unlocking:

Press transmit button . All turnsignal lamps blink once to indicate thatthe vehicle is unlocked.

The remote control can be programmedfor two kinds of unlocking methods(see below):Selective unlocking mode -Press transmit button once tounlock driver's door and fuel filler flap.

Press transmit button twice tounlock doors, fuel filler flap, and trunk.

Global unlocking mode -Presstransmit button once to unlockdoors, fuel filler flap, and trunk.

Notes:

If the trunk was previously lockedseparately, it will remain locked (seeTrunk, separately locked Index).The presently active unlocking mode(selective or global) can only bedetermined by unlocking the vehiclewith the remote control (see below forchanging mode).

The vehicle is automatically lockedagain, if within 40 seconds of un-locking with the remote control, neitherdoor or trunk is opened, the electronickey is not inserted in the steering lock,or the central locking switch is notactivated.

Locking:

Press transmit button once. Allturn signal lamps blink three times toindicate that the vehicle is locked.

Note:

If the vehicle cannot be locked orunlocked by pressing the transmitbutton, then it may be necessary tochange the batteries in the transmitter,see Remote control battery replacementin Index (if ok, battery check lamp intransmitter will light briefly whentransmitting) or to synchronize theremote control, see SynchronizingRemote Control in Index.

Choosing Global or Selective Modeon Remote Control

Press and hold transmit buttonsand simultaneously for fiveseconds to reprogram the remotecontrol. Battery check lamp will blinktwo times indicating the completedmode change.

33

Opening the Trunk

A minimum height clearance of 5.9 ft(1.8 m) is required to open the trunklid.

Press transmit button until trunklid is open.

Important!

Do not place remote control in trunksince trunk is locked again whenclosing the lid.

Note:

If the trunk was previously lockedseparately, it will remain locked (seeIndex).

Opening and Closing Windows fromOutside

Aim transmitter eye (5) of remotecontrol at door receivers (6 or 7).

To open:

Continue to press transmit buttonafter unlocking car.

The windows begin to open afterapprox. 1 second.

To interrupt opening procedure, releasebutton.

To close:

Continue to press transmit buttonafter locking car.

The windows begin to close afterapprox. 1 second.

To interrupt closing procedure, releasebutton.

Warning!

Never operate the windows if there isthe possibility of anyone beingharmed by the opening or closingprocedure.

In case the procedure causespotential danger, the procedure canbe immediately halted by releasingthe remote control button. Toreverse direction of movement press

for opening or for closing.

Note:

If the windows cannot be operatedautomatically by pressing the transmitbutton of the remote control then itmay be necessary to change thebatteries in the transmitter (if ok,battery check lamp in transmitter willlight briefly when transmitting), or tosynchronize the remote control, seeSynchronizing Remote Control inIndex.

34

Panic Button

To activate press and hold button (1)for at least one second. The alarm willlast for approximately 3 minutes inform of blinking exterior lamps, and analarm will sound.

To deactivate press button (1) again, orinsert electronic key in steering lock.

Note:

For operation in the USA only: Thisdevice complies with Part 15 of theFCC Rules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmfulinterference, and

(2) this device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may cause undesiredoperation.

Any unauthorized modification to thisdevice could void the user's authorityto operate the equipment.

Mechanical Keys

The entire vehicle may be locked orunlocked by using either themechanical key in driver's door ortrunk lock, or central locking switchlocated in center console. Themechanical key also locks or unlocksthe fuel filler flap.

Note:

If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened,refer to Fuel Filler Flap, ManualRelease (see Index).

35

Doors

1 Opening - pull handle2 Unlocking3 Locking4 Individual door from inside:

• Push lock button down to lock.• Pull lock button up to unlock.

When you lock the car, both door lockbuttons should move down. If any onestays up, the respective door is notproperly closed.

You should then unlock the car, openand reclose this door, and lock the caragain. Each individual door can belocked with door lock button - thedriver's door can only be locked whenit is closed.

If the car has previously been lockedfrom the outside, only the door beingopened from the inside will unlock,and the alarm will come on. The otherdoor, the trunk lid and fuel filler flapremain locked.

Notes:

In case of a malfunction in the centrallocking system the doors can be lockedand unlocked individually.

To lock, turn mechanical key indriver's door lock to position 3 or pushdown lock buttons.

To unlock, turn mechanical key indriver's door lock to position 2 or pullup lock buttons

36

Central locking switch

1 Locking2 Unlocking

The central locking switch is locatedin the center console.

The doors and trunk can only belocked with the central locking switch,if both doors are closed.

If the vehicle was previously lockedwith the remote control or mechanicalkey, the doors and trunk cannot beunlocked with the central lockingswitch.

If the vehicle was previously lockedwith the central locking switch, whilein the selective remote control mode,only the door opened from the inside isunlocked.

If the vehicle was previously lockedwith the central locking switch, whilein the global remote control mode, thecomplete vehicle is unlocked when adoor is opened from the inside.

Note:

The fuel filler flap cannot be locked orunlocked with the central lockingswitch.

Automatic Central Locking

The central locking switch alsooperates the automatic central locking.

To activate:

With electronic key in steering lockposition 2 hold upper portion of switch(1) for a minimum of 5 seconds.

To deactivate:

With electronic key in steering lockposition 2 hold lower portion of switch(2) for a minimum of 5 seconds.

With the automatic central lockingsystem activated, the doors and trunkare locked at vehicle speeds of approx.9 mph (15 km/h) or more. The fuelfiller flap remains unlocked.

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Notes:

If doors are unlocked with the centrallocking switch after activating theautomatic central locking, and neitherdoor is opened, then the doors remainunlocked even at vehicle speeds ofapprox. 9 mph (15 km/h) or more.Opening a door from the inside atspeeds of approx. 9 mph (15 km/h) orless with the automatic central lockingactivated, the door will again beautomatically locked at speeds ofapprox. 9 mph (15 km/h) or more.

Important!

When towing the vehicle, or with thevehicle on a dynamometer test stand,please, note the following:With the automatic central lockingactivated and the electronic key insteering lock position 2, the vehicledoors lock if the left front wheel aswell as the right rear wheel are turningat vehicle speeds of approx. 9 mph (15km/h) or more.

To prevent the vehicle door locks fromlocking, deactivate the automaticcentral locking.

Emergency Unlocking in Caseof Accident

The doors unlock automatically a shorttime after an accident (this is intendedto aid rescue and exit). However, theelectronic key must still be in thesteering lock.

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Trunk

1 Neutral position - push to open2 Unlocking3 Locking (detent)4 Separate locking of trunk -

remove key in this position.

When the trunk is separately locked,it remains locked when unlocking anydoor.

To deny any unauthorized personaccess to the trunk, lock it separately.Leave only the electronic main keyless its mechanical key with thevehicle.

Notes:

In case of a malfunction in the centrallocking system the trunk can belocked and unlocked individually.To lock, turn mechanical key toposition 2 or 3.

To unlock and open the trunk lid, turnmechanical key to position 1, hold andpush to open.

If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened,refer to Fuel Filler Flap, ManualRelease (see Index).

Important!

Do not place mechanical key insidetrunk, since trunk is locked again whenclosing the lid.

Lower trunk lid using handle (5) orrecessed grip (6), and close it with gripmolding (7).

39

Power Windows and Sliding/Pop-UpRoof

1 Opening2 Interrupting3 Closing

When locking doors or trunk, turnmechanical key in door lock or trunklock to position 3 and hold. Thewindows and the sliding/popup roofbegin to close automatically afterapproximately 1 second.

To interrupt the closing procedure, turnmechanical key to position 2.

When unlocking doors or trunk, turnmechanical key in door lock or trunklock to position 1 and hold. Thewindows and the sliding/popup roofbegin to open automatically afterapproximately 1 second.

To interrupt the opening procedure,turn mechanical key to position 2.

Warning!

Never operate the windows orsliding/pop-up roof if there is thepossibility of anyone being harmedby the procedure.

In case the procedure causespotential danger, the procedure canbe immediately reversed by turningthe mechanical key to the reversedoperational direction:

• for opening position (1)• for closing position (3).

Note:

If the closing procedure is interrupted,it can only be continued by first turningthe key to the unlocked position (3) andthen again to the locking position (1)and hold.

40

1 Indicator lamp in switch located incenter console

Antitheft Alarm System

The antitheft alarm is automaticallyarmed or disarmed with the remotecontrol or any of your vehicle'smechanical keys by locking orunlocking the driver's door or thetailgate.

The antitheft alarm is armed withinapprox. 15 seconds after locking thevehicle.

A blinking lamp (1) indicates that thealarm is armed.

Operation

Once the alarm system has been armed,the exterior vehicle lamps will flash andthe alarm will sound when someone:

• opens a door,• opens the trunk,• opens the hood,• attempts to raise the vehicle.

The alarm will last approximately 21/2minutes in the form of flashing exteriorlamps. At the same time an alarm willsound for 30 seconds. The alarm willstay on even if the activating element(a door, for example) is immediatelyclosed.

Note:

We recommend that you carry theelectronic reserve key plus mechanicalkey with you and keep it in a safe place(e.g. your wallet) so that it is alwayshandy. Never leave the electronicreserve key in the vehicle.

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Tow-Away Protection

1 Press to switch off.2 Indicator lamp

The switch is located in the centerconsole

Once the alarm system has been armed,the exterior vehicle lamps will flash andan alarm will sound when someoneattempts to raise the vehicle.

The alarm will last approximately 21/2minutes in the form of flashing exteriorlamps. At the same time an alarm willsound for 30 seconds. The alarm willstay on even if the vehicle isimmediately lowered.

To prevent triggering the alarm, switchoff the tow-away protection beforetowing the vehicle, or when parking ona surface subject to movement, such asa ferrey or auto train.

To do so, turn electronic key insteering lock to position 1 or 0, orremove electronic key from steeringlock. Press tow-away protection switch(1). The indicator lamp (2) illuminatesbriefly.

Exit vehicle, and lock vehicle withmechanical key or remote control.

The tow-away protection remainsswitched off until the vehicle is lockedagain with mechanical key or remotecontrol.

42

Power Seats, Front

Warning!

Do not adjust the driver's seat whiledriving. Adjusting the seat whiledriving could cause the driver to losecontrol of the vehicle.

Never ride in a moving vehicle withthe backrest reclined. Sitting in anexcessively reclined position can bedangerous. You could slide under theseat belt in a collision. If you slideunder it, the belt would apply forceat the abdomen or neck. That couldcause serious or even fatal injuries.The backrest and seat belt providethe best restraint when the wearer isin an upright position and the belt isproperly positioned on the body.

Never place hands under seat or nearany moving parts while a seat isbeing adjusted.

The slide switches are located in eachfront door.

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle alwaysremove the electronic key from thesteering lock.

The power seats can also be operatedwith the driver's or passenger dooropen. Do not leave childrenunattended in the vehicle or withaccess to an unlocked vehicle.Unsupervised use of vehicleequipment may cause serious personalinjury.

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2 (with the driver's orpassenger's door open, the power seatscan also be operated with the electronickey removed or in steering lockposition 0).

1 Seat, up/down2 Seat, fore/aft3 Seat cushion tilt4 Backrest tilt5 Head restraint

During seat adjustment, the headrestraint is automatically adjusted tosupport the back of the headapproximately at ear level.

The head restraint angle can also beadjusted manually.

Note:

Your vehicle is equipped withpower head restraints, do not try toraise or lower them manually.

43

Synchronizing Head Restraints

If the power supply was interrupted(battery disconnected or empty), thepower seats and head restraints are nolonger adjusted automatically.

To resynchronize the adjustmentfeature, move the seat completelyforward and the head restraint fullydown.

Caution!

Do not remove head restraints exceptwhen mounting seat covers. Forremoval refer to Head Restraints,Front, see Index. Whenever restraintshave been removed be sure to reinstallthem before driving.

Memory Storing and Recalling

6 Memory button7 Position buttons

Storing

Three sets of seat/head restraint andexterior rear view mirror positions maybe programmed into memory. After theseat/head restraint and exterior rearview mirrors are positioned, pushmemory button (6), release, and within3 seconds push position button "1". Asecond and third set of positions for thesame seat/head restraint and exterior

restraint/steering wheel and exteriorrear view mirrors can be programmedinto memory by pushing first memorybutton (6) and then "2", respectively "3".

Note:

See Index for instructions onadjustment of steering wheel andmirrors.

Recalling

To recall a seat/head restraint/steering wheel and exterior rear viewmirror position, push and hold positionbutton "1", "2" or "3" until seat/headrestraint/steering wheel and exteriorrear view mirror movement hasstopped. The seat/headrestraint/steering wheel and exteriorrear view mirror movement stops whenthe position button is released.

Caution!

Do not operate the power seats withbackrests in an excessively reclinedposition, using the memory buttons.Doing so could cause damage to frontor rear seats.

First move the backrest to an uprightposition.

44

Important!

Prior to operating the vehicle, the drivershould adjust the seat height for propervision as well as fore/aft placement andseat back angle to insure adequatecontrol, reach, operation, and comfort.The head restraint should also beadjusted for proper height. See alsoairbag section for proper seatpositioning. Head restraint should alsobe adjusted for proper height. See alsoairbag section for proper seatpositioning.

Both the inside and outside rear viewmirrors should be adjusted for adequaterearward vision.

Fasten seat belts. Infants and smallchildren should be seated in a properlysecured restraint system that complieswith U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard 213 and Canadian MotorVehicle Safety Standard 213.1.

All seat, head restraint, and rear viewmirror adjustments as well as fasteningof seat belts should be done before thevehicle is put into motion.

Warning!

Children 12 years old and undermust never ride in the front seat,except in a Mercedes-Benzauthorized BabySmart™ compatiblechild seat, which operates with theBabySmart™ system installed in thevehicle to deactivate the passengerside front airbag when it is properlyinstalled. Otherwise they will bestruck by the airbag when it inflatesin a crash. If this happens, serious orfatal injury will result.

The back seat is the safest place forchildren. Infants and small childrenmust ride in the back seats and beseated in an appropriate infant orchild restraint system, which isproperly secured with the vehicle'sseat belt, fully in accordance with theseat manufacturer's instructions.

A child's risk of serious or fatalinjuries is significantly increased ifthe child restraints are not properlysecured in the vehicle and the child isnot properly secured in the childrestraint.

45

Multicontour Seat (optional)

1 Seat cushion depth2 Backrest bottom3 Backrest center4 Side bolster adjustment

Some models may be equipped withmulticontour seats. These seats havemovable seat cushions, and inflatable aircushions built into the backrest toprovide additional lumbar and sidesupport.

The seat cushion movement andamount of backrest cushion height andcurvature can be continuously variedwith regulators (1, 2 and 3) afterturning the electronic key in steeringlock to position 2.

The side bolsters of the backrest can beadjusted with rocker switch (4):

• press down forward end -increase side support,

• press down rearward end -decrease side support.

If the engine is turned off, the lastcushion setting is retained in memory,and automatically adjusts the cushionto this setting when the engine isrestarted.

46

The front seat heater switches arelocated in the center console.

Heated Seats (optional)

The front seat heaters can beswitched on with the electronic key insteering lock positions 1 or 2.

Press switch to turn on seat heater:

1 Normal seat heating mode. Oneindicator lamp in the switchlights up.

2 Rapid seat heating mode. Bothindicator lamps in the switchlight up.After approximately 5 minutes inthe rapid seat heating mode, theseat heater automatically switchesto normal operation and only oneindicator lamp will stay on.

Turning off seat heater:

If one indicator lamp is on, press upperhalf of switch.

If both indicator lamps are on, presslower half of switch.

If left on, the seat heater automaticallyturns off after approximately 30minutes of operation.

Note:

When in operation, the seat heaterconsumes a large amount of electricalpower. It is not advisable to use theseat heater longer than necessary.

The seat heaters may automaticallyswitch off if too many powerconsumers are switched on at thesame time, or if the battery charge islow. When this occurs, the indicatorlamp in the switch will blink (bothindicator lamps blink during rapid seatheating mode). The seat heaters willswitch on again automatically as soonas sufficient voltage is available.

If the blinking of the indicator lamps isdistracting to you, the seat heaters canbe switched off.

47

Adjustable Steering Wheel

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2 (with the driver's orfront passenger's door open, thesteering wheel can also be operatedwith the electronic key removed or insteering lock position 0).

To lengthen or shorten the steeringcolumn, push switch foreward orbackward.

To raise or lower steering wheel, pushswitch up or down.

Note:

The steering wheel position can bestored in memory together with theseat/head restraint and exterior rearview mirror positions, see Index.

Warning!

Do not adjust the steering wheelwhile driving. Adjusting thesteering wheel while driving couldcause the driver to lose control ofthe vehicle

Armrest, Rear Bench

Pull down the armrest by its top.

First Aid Kit in Rear Bench Armrest

Press button (1) and pull drawer out toits final stop.

Cup Holder in Rear Bench Armrest

Press button (1) and pull out drawer toits detent.

Caution!

Keep cup holder closed whiletraveling. Place only containers thatfit into the cup holder to prevent spills.

Do not fill containers to a heightwhere the contents could spill duringvehicle maneuvers, especially hotliquids.

48

Head Restraints, Rear

Folding head restraints backward (withengine running)

Press symbol-side of rocker switch torelease the head restraints. The headrestraints will then fold backward forincreased visibility.

Placing head restraints upright:Pull head restraint forward until itlocks in position.Angle of head restraints:The head restraint angle can beadjusted manually.

Important!

For safety reasons, always drive withthe rear head restraints in the uprightposition when the rear seats areoccupied.

Keep area around head restraints clearof articles (e.g. clothing) to not obstructthe folding operation of the headrestraints.

Cargo Tie-Down Hooks

Inside the trunk are four cargo tie-downhooks.

Secure cargo by applying even load onall four hooks.

Shelf below Rear Window

Warning!

The shelf below the rear windowshould not be used to carry objects.This will prevent such objects frombeing thrown about and injuringvehicle occupants during an accidentor sudden maneuver.

49

Seat Belts and SupplementalRestraint System (SRS)

Your vehicle is equipped with seatbelts for all seats, emergencytensioning retractors for the front seatbelts, as well as front and side impactairbags and knee bolsters for driver andfront passenger.

Seat Belts

Important!

Laws in most states and all Canadianprovinces require seat belt use.

All states and provinces require use ofchild restraints that comply with U.S.Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard213 and Canadian Motor VehicleSafety Standard 213.

For your safety and that of yourpassengers we strongly recommendtheir use.

Warning!

Children 12 years old and undermust never ride in the front seat,except in a Mercedes-Benzauthorized BabySmart™ compatiblechild seat, which operates with theBabySmart™ system installed in thevehicle to deactivate the passengerside front airbag when it is properlyinstalled. Otherwise they will bestruck by the airbag when it inflatesin a crash. If this happens, serious orfatal injury will result.

The back seat is the safest place forchildren. Infants and small childrenmust ride in back seats and be seatedin an appropriate infant or childrestraint system, which is properlysecured with the vehicle's seat belt,fully in accordance with the seatmanufacturer's instructions.

A child's risk of serious or fatalinjuries is significantly increased ifthe child restraints are not properlysecured in the vehicle and the childis not properly secured in the childrestraint.

Warning!

Never ride in a moving vehicle withthe seat back reclined. Sitting in anexcessively reclined position can bedangerous. You could slide under theseat belt in a collision. If you slideunder it, the belt would apply forceat the abdomen or neck. That couldcause serious or even fatal injuries.The seat back and seat belts providethe best restraint when the wearer isin an upright position and belts areproperly positioned on the body.

Note:

For cleaning and care of the seat belts,see Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle inIndex.

50

Seat Belt Warning System

With the electronic key in steering lockposition 2, a warning sounds for a shorttime if the driver's seat belt is notfastened.

Warning!

Failure to wear and properly fastenand position your seat belt greatlyincreases your risk of injuries andtheir likely severity in an accident.You and your passengers shouldalways wear seat belts.

If you are ever in an accident, yourinjuries can be considerably moresevere without your seat beltproperly buckled. Without your seatbelt buckled, you are much morelikely to hit the interior of the vehicleor be ejected from it. You can beseriously injured or killed.

In the same crash, the possibility forinjury or death is lessened with yourseat belt buckled.

Fastening of Seat Belts

1 Latch plate2 Buckle3 Release button4 Button for belt outlet height

adjustment

Push latch plate (1) into buckle (2) untilit clicks. Do not twist the belt. A twistedseat belt may cause injury.

To avoid severe or fatal injuries, the lapbelt should be positioned as low aspossible on your hips and not acrossthe abdomen.

Tighten the lap portion to a snug fit bypulling shoulder portion up.

The shoulder portion of the seat beltmust be pulled snug and checked forsnugness immediately after engagingit.

Adjust seat belt so that shoulderportion is located as close as possibleto the middle of your shoulder (itshould not touch the neck). For thispurpose, you can adjust the beltheight. Five positions are available.

51

4 Button for belt outlet

Raising:Slide belt outlet upward.

Lowering:Press button (4) and slide belt outletdownward.

Caution!

For safety reasons, avoid adjusting theseat or seat back into positions whichcould affect the correct seat beltposition.

Unfastening of Seat Belts

Push the release button (3) in the beltbuckle (2).

Allow the retractor to completelyrewind the seat belt by guiding thelatch plate (1).

Operation:

The inertia reel stops the belt fromunwinding during sudden vehicle stopsor when quickly pulling on the belt.The locking function of the reel maybe checked by quickly pulling out thebelt.

Warning!

USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY.

• Each occupant should weartheir seat belt at all times,because seat belts help reducethe likelihood of and potentialseverity of injuries in accidents,including rollovers. "SRS"(driver airbag, front passengerairbag, side impact airbags),"ETR" (seat belt emergencytensioning retractors), and kneebolsters are designed toenhance the protection offeredto properly belted occupants incertain frontal impacts whichexceed preset deploymentthresholds.

• Improperly positioned seatbelts do not provide maximumprotection and may causeserious injuries in case of anaccident.

• Never wear the shoulder beltunder your arm, against yourneck or off your shoulder. In acrash, your body would move toofar forward. That would increasethe chance of head and neckinjuries. The belt would also

52

apply too much force to the ribs orabdomen, which could severelyinjure internal organs such asyour liver or spleen.

• Position the lap belt as low aspossible on your hips and notacross the abdomen. If the belt ispositioned across your abdomen,it could cause serious injuries in acrash.

• Each seat belt should never beused for more than one person ata time. Do not fasten a seat beltaround a person and objects.

• Belts should not be worn twisted.In a crash, you wouldn't have thefull width of the belt to manageimpact forces. The twisted beltagainst your body could causeinjuries.

• Pregnant women should also use alap-shoulder belt. The lap beltportion should be positioned aslow as possible on the hips toavoid any possible pressure on theabdomen.

Warning!

USE CHILD RESTRAINTSPROPERLY.

Children 12 years old and under mustnever ride in the front seat, except ina Mercedes-Benz authorizedBabySmart™ compatible child seat,which operates with theBabySmart™ system installed in thevehicle to deactivate the passengerside front airbag when it is properlyinstalled. Otherwise they will bestruck by the airbag when it inflatesin a crash. If this happens, serious orfatal injury will result.

According to accident statistics,children are safer when properlyrestrained in the rear seatingpositions than in the front seatingpositions. Infants

and small children must ride in backseats and be seated in an appropriateinfant or child restraint system,which is properly secured with thevehicle's seat belt, fully in accordancewith the child seat manufacturer'sinstructions.

A child's risk of serious or fatalinjuries is significantly increased ifthe child restraints are not properlysecured in the vehicle and the child isnot properly secured in the childrestraint.

Children too big for child restraintsystems must ride in back seats usingregular seat belts. Position shoulderbelt across chest and shoulder, notface or neck. A booster seat isnecessary to achieve proper beltpositioning.

53

BabySmart™ AirbagDeactivation System

Special child seats, designed for usewith the Mercedes-Benz system andavailable at any authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer are required for use withthe BabySmart™ airbag deactivationsystem.

With the special child seat properlyinstalled, the passenger side frontairbag will not deploy. Theindicator lamp located on the centerconsole will be illuminated, except withelectronic key removed or in steeringlock position 0. The system does notdeactivate the door mounted sideimpact airbag and the window airbag.

BabySmart™ is a trademark ofSiemens Automotive Corp

Warning!

The BabySmart™ Airbag DeactivationSystem will ONLY work with a specialseat designed to operate with it. It willnot work with seats which are notBabySmart™ compatible.

Never place anything between seatcushion and child seat (e.g. pillow),since it reduces the effectiveness ofthe deactivation system.

Follow the manufacturer'sinstructions for installation of specialchild seats.

The passenger side front airbag willnot deploy only if the indicatorlamp remains illuminated.

Please be sure to check the indicatorevery time you use the special systemchild seat. Should the light go outwhile the restraint is installed, please

check installation. If the light remainsout, do not use the BabySmart™restraint to transport children, orotherwise-do not transport child re-straints on the front passenger seatuntil the system has been repaired.

Self-Test BabySmart™Without Special Child SeatInstalled

After turning electronic key in steeringlock to position 1 or 2, the indicatorlamp located on center console comeson for approx. 6 seconds.

If the lamp should not come on or iscontinuously lit, the system is notfunctioning. You must see anauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealerbefore using any child seat.

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Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)

The term Supplemental Restraint Systemmeans that airbags are intended as asupplement to seat belts. Airbags alonecannot protect as well as airbags plus seatbelts in impacts for which the airbagswere designed to operate, and do notafford any protection whatsoever incrashes for which the system is notdesigned to deploy.

The SRS uses two crash severity levels(thresholds) to activate either the ETR orairbag or both. Activation depends on thedirection and severity of the impact,exceeding the thresholds and fastening ofthe seat belt.

Seat belt fastened

• first threshold exceeded: ETR activates• second threshold exceeded: airbag

also activates

Seat belt not fastened

• first threshold exceeded: airbagactivates, but not ETR

Driver and front passenger systemsoperate independently from each other.

Emergency TensioningRetractor (ETR)

The seat belts for the front seats areequipped with emergency tensioningretractors. These tensioning retractorsare located in each belt's inertia reeland become operationally ready withthe electronic key in steering lockposition 1 or 2.

The emergency tensioning retractorsare designed to activate only when theseat belts are fastened during frontalimpacts exceeding the first threshold ofthe SRS and in rear impacts exceedinga preset security level. They removeslack from the belts in such a way thatthe seat belts fit more snugly againstthe body restricting its forwardmovement as much as possible.

In cases of other frontal impacts,angled impacts, roll-overs, certain sideimpacts, or other accidents withoutsufficient frontal or rear impact forces,the emergency tensioning retractorswill not be activated. The driver andpassengers will then be protected bythe fastened seat belts and inertia reelin the usual manner.

For seat belt and emergency tensioningretractor safety guidelines see SafetyGuidelines in Index.

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Airbags

1 Driver airbag

The most effective occupant restraintsystem yet developed for use inproduction vehicles is the seat belt. Insome cases, however, the protectiveeffect of a seat belt can be furtherenhanced by an airbag.

The driver airbag is located in thesteering wheel hub.

2 Front passenger airbag

The passenger front airbag is located inthe dashboard ahead of the frontpassenger.

The side impact airbags are located in thedoors.

The window airbags (5, on next page) arelocated around the door windows behindthe door frame trims.

In conjunction with wearing the seatbelts with emergency tensioningretractors, the airbags can provideincreased protection for the driver andfront passenger in certain major frontal(for front airbags), and side impacts(for side impact airbags).Theoperational readiness of the airbagsystem is verified by the indicator lamp"SRS" in the instrument cluster whenturning the electronic key in steeringlock to position 1 or 2. If no fault isdetected, the lamp will go out afterapproximately 4 seconds; after thelamp goes out, the system continues tomonitor the components and circuitryof the airbag system and will indicate amalfunction by coming on again.

The following system components aremonitored or undergo a self-check:crash-sensor(s), airbag ignitioncircuits, front seat belt buckles,emergency tensioning retractors, seatsensor.

Initially, when the electronic key isturned from steering lock position 0 topositions 1 or 2, malfunctions in thecrash-sensor are detected andindicated (the "SRS" indicator lampstays on longer than 4 seconds).

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3 Side impact airbag, front

4 Window airbag

the crash-sensor are detected andindicated (the "SRS" indicator lampstays on longer than 4 seconds or doesnot come on).

Have the system checked at yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealerimmediately.

In the operational mode, after theindicator lamp has gone out followingthe initial check, interruptions or shortcircuits in the airbag ignition circuitand in the driver and passenger seatbelt buckle harnesses, and low voltagein the entire system are detected andindicated.

Warning!

In the event a malfunction of the"SRS" is indicated as outlinedabove, the "SRS" may not beoperational. For your safety, westrongly recommend that you visitan authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerimmediately to have the systemchecked; otherwise the "SRS" maynot be activated when needed in anaccident, which could result inserious or fatal injury, or it mightdeploy unexpectedly andunneccesarily which could also resultin injury.

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Front Airbags

The driver and passenger front "SRS"airbags are designed to activate only incertain frontal or rear impacts.

The front passenger airbag deploysonly if the passenger seat is occupied.

Note:

Heavy objects on passenger seat cancause the front airbag to deploy in acrash.

Side Impact Airbags

The side impact "SRS" airbags aredesigned to activate only in certain sideimpacts. Only the side airbag on theimpacted side of the vehicle deploys.The side impact airbag for the frontpassenger deploys only if the seat isoccupied.

Side impact airbags operate best inconjunction with a properly positionedand fastenend seat belt.

Note:Heavy objects on passenger seat cancause the side impact airbag to deploy ina crash.

Window Airbags

The "SRS" window airbags aredesigned to activate only in certain sideimpacts. Only the window airbag on theimpacted side of the vehicle deploys

Important!

The "SRS" airbags are designed toactivate only in certain frontal (frontairbags) impacts, or side (side impactand window air-bags) impacts.Only during these types of impacts,if of sufficient severity to meet thedeployment thresholds, will theyprovide their supplementalprotection.

The driver and passenger shouldalways wear their seat belts,otherwise it is not possible for theairbags to provide theirsupplemental protection.

In cases of other frontal impacts,angled impacts, roll-overs, other sideimpacts, rear collisions, or otheraccidents without sufficient forces,the airbags will not be activated. Thedriver and passengers will then beprotected by the fastened seat belts.

We caution you not to rely on thepresence of the airbags in order toavoid wearing your seat belt.

The "SRS" is designed to reduce thepotential of injury in certain frontal(front airbags) impacts, or side (sideimpact and window airbags) impactswhich may cause significant injuries,however, no system available todaycan totally eliminate injuries andfatalities.

The activation of the "SRS"temporarily releases a small amountof dust from the airbags. This dust,however, is neither injurious to yourhealth, nor does it indicate a fire inthe vehicle.

The service life of the airbagsextends to the date indicated on thelabel located on the driver-side doorlatch post. To provide continuedreliability after that date, theyshould be inspected by an authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer at that timeand replaced when necessary.

Your vehicle was originally equippedwith a Supplemental

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Restraint System (SRS). The SRSairbags are designed to activate incertain impacts exceeding a presetthreshold to reduce the potential andseverity of injury. Mercedes-Benzencourages you to replace deployedairbags and repair anymalfunctioning airbags to ensure thevehicle will continue to providemaximum crash protections foroccupants.

Warning!

It is very important for your safety toalways be in a properly seatedposition and to wear your seat belt.

For maximum protection in the eventof a collision always be in normalseated position with your backagainst the backrest. Fasten your seatbelt and ensure that it is properlypositioned on the body.

Since the airbag inflates withconsiderable speed and force, a properseating and hands on steering wheelposition will help to Keep you in a safedistance from the airbag:

• Sit properly belted in an uprightposition with your back againstthe seat back.

• Adjust the driver seat as far aspossible rearward, stillpermitting proper operation ofvehicle controls.

• Do not lean with your head orchest close to the steering wheelor dashboard.

• Keep hands on the outside ofsteering wheel rim. Placing handsand arms inside the rim canincrease the risk and potentialseverity of hand/arm injury whenairbag inflates.

• Adjust the front passenger seatrearward as far as possible fromthe dash board when the seat isoccupied.

• Children 12 years old and undermust never ride in the front seat,except in a Mercedes-Benzauthorized BabySmart™compatible child seat, whichoperates with the BabySmart™system installed in the vehicle todeactivate the passenger side frontairbag when it is properly installed.Otherwise they will be struck by theairbag when it inflates in a crash. Ifthis happens, serious or fatalinjury will result.

Failure to follow these instructionscan result in severe injuries to youor other occupants.

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Safety Guidelines for the Seat Belt,Emergency Tensioning Retractorand Airbag

Warning!

• Damaged belts or belts that werehighly stressed in an accidentmust be replaced and theiranchoring points must also bechecked. Use only belts installedor supplied by an authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

• Do not pass belts over sharpedges.

• Do not make any modificationthat could change the effectivenessof the belts.

• The "SRS" is designed tofunction on a one-time-onlybasis. An airbag or emergencytensioning retractor (ETR) thatwas activated must be replaced.

• No modifications of any kindmay be made to any components

or wiring of the "SRS". Thisincludes the installation ofadditional trim material, badgesetc. over the steering wheel hub,front passenger airbag cover, orfront door trim panels, andinstallation of additionalelectrical/electronic equipmenton or near "SRS" componentsand wiring.

• An airbag system componentwithin the steering wheel getshot after the airbag has inflated.

• Improper work on the system,including incorrect installationand removal, can lead topossible injury through anuncontrolledactivation of the "SRS".

• In addition, through improperwork there is the risk ofrendering the "SRS"inoperative. Work on the "SRS"must therefore only beperformed by an authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

• When scrapping the airbag unitor emergency tensioningretractor, it is mandatory tofollow our safety instructions.These instructions are availableat your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

When you sell the vehicle we stronglyurge you to give notice to thesubsequent owner that it is equippedwith an "SRS" by alerting him to theapplicable section in the Owner'sManual.

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Infant and Child RestraintSystems

We recommend that all infants andchildren be properly restrained at alltimes while the vehicle is in motion.

All lap-shoulder belts except driver seathave special seat belt retractors forsecure fastening of child restraints.

To fasten a child restraint use this seatbelt:

Follow child restraint instructions forrouting. Then pull shoulder belt outcompletely and let it retract. During theseat belt retraction a ratcheting soundcan be heard to indicate that thespecial seat belt retractor is activated.The belt is now locked. Push down onchild restraint to take up any slack.

To deactivate, release seat belt buckleand let seat belt retract completely.The seat belt can again be used in theusual manner.

Warning!

Never release the seat belt bucklewhile vehicle is in motion, since thespecial seat belt retractor will bedeactivated.

Important!

The use of infant or child restraints isrequired by law in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces.

Infants and small children should beseated in an appropriate infant or childrestraint system properly secured by alap-shoulder belt, and that complies withU.S. Federal Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard 213 and Canadian MotorVehicle Safety Standard 213.1. A state-ment by the child restraint manufacturerof compliance with this standard can befound on the instruction label on therestraint and in the instruction manualprovided with the restraint.

When using any infant or child restraintsystem, be sure to carefully read andfollow all manufacturer's instructions forinstallation and use.

Please read and observe warning labelsaffixed to inside of vehicle.

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Warning!

Children 12 years old and undermust never ride in the front seat,except in a Mercedes-Benzauthorized BabySmart™ compatiblechild seat, which operates with theBabySmart™ system installed in thevehicle to deactivate the passengerside front airbag when it is properlyinstalled. Otherwise they will bestruck by the airbag when it inflatesin a crash. If this happens, serious orfatal injury will result.

According to accident statistics,children are safer when properlyrestrained in the rear seatingpositions than in the front seatingpositions. Infants and small childrenmust ride in back seats and be seatedin an infant or child restraint system,which is properly secured with thevehicle's seat belt, fully inaccordance with the child seatmanufacturer's instructions.

Infants and small children shouldnever share a seat belt with anotheroccupant. During an accident, theycould be crushed between theoccupant and seat belt.

Children too big for child restraintsystems must ride in back seats usingregular seat belts. Position shoulderbelt across chest and shoulder, notface or neck. A booster seat isnecessary to achieve proper beltpositioning for children from 41 lbs.to the point where a lap/shoulderbelt fits properly without one.

When the child restraint is not inuse, remove it from the vehicle orsecure it with the seat belt to preventthe child restraint from becoming aprojectile in the event of an accident.

U.S.A. Models only:

Since 1986 all U.S. child restraintscomply with U.S. regulations withoutthe use of a tether strap.

Canada Models only:

This vehicle is provided with tetheranchorages for a top tether strap.Consult your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for installation of theseanchorages.

In compliance with Canadian MotorVehicle Safety Standard 210.1, childrestraint tether anchorage hardware isattached to the tool kit located in thetrunk

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Steering Lock

0 The electronic key can bewithdrawn in this position only.The steering is locked with theelectronic key removed from thesteering lock. The electronic keycan be removed only with theselector lever in position "P" andthe foot off the brake pedal.After removing the electronickey or with the electronic key insteering lock position 0, theselector lever is locked inposition "P".

1 Steering is unlocked.(If necessary, move steering wheelslightly to allow the electronic key tobe turned clockwise to position 1.)Most electrical consumers can beoperated. For detailed informationsee respective subjects.

2 Gasoline engine: Driving position.2 Diesel engine:

Preglow and driving position.3 Starting position.

Refer to Index for Starting and turningoff the engine

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Warning!

When leaving the vehicle alwaysremove the electronic key from thesteering lock, and lock the vehicle.Do not leave children unattended inthe vehicle, or with access to an un-locked vehicle. Unsupervised use ofvehicle equipment may cause seriouspersonal injury.

Important!

If the electronic key is left in thesteering lock position 0 for an extendedperiod of time, it can no longer beturned in the lock. In this case, removeelectronic key from steering lock andreinsert.

Caution!

To prevent accelerated batterydischarge and a possible dead battery,always remove the electronic key fromthe steering lock. Do not leave theelectronic key in steering lock position0.

Notes:

A warning sounds when the driver'sdoor is opened with the electronic keyin steering lock position 1 or 0.

With the engine at idle speed, thecharging rate of the alternator (output)is limited.

It is therefore recommended to turn offunnecessary electrical consumers whiledriving in stop-and-go traffic. Thisprecaution helps to avoid draining ofthe battery.

Unnecessary strain on the battery andcharging system may be minimized byturning off the following powerconsumers, for example: Heated seats,rear window defroster. In addition, theautomatic climate air volume controlshould be set to the lowest position.

The steering lock can only be unlockedwith the vehicle battery properlycharged and connected.

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Combination Switch

1 Low beam (exterior lampswitch position )

2 High beam (exterior lampswitch position )

3 High beam flasher (high beamavailable independent ofexterior lamp switch position)

4 Turn signals, right

5 Turn signals, left

To signal minor directional changes,such as changing lanes on a highway,move combination switch to the pointof resistance only and hold it there.

To operate the turn signalscontinuously, move the combinationswitch past the point of resistance (upor down). The switch is automaticallycanceled when the steering wheel isturned to a large enough degree.

6 Control for windshieldwiper/washer system:Push briefly for single wipewithout adding washer fluid (useonly when windshield is wet)Push past detent and holdto activate wiper and washer

7 Windshield wiper0 Wiper offI Intermittent wiping

(optional rain sensor:One initial wipe, pauses betweenwipes are automaticallycontrolled by a rain sensormonitoring the wetness of thewindshield.)

II Normal wiper speedIII Fast wiper speed

Note:

The windshield washer reservoir, hosesand nozzles are automatically heated.

Turn Signal Failure

If one of the turn signals fails, the turnsignal indicator system flashes andsounds at a faster than normal rate.

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Windshield and Headlamp WasherFluid Mixing Ratio

For temperatures above freezing:

MB Windshield Washer Concentrate"S" and water

1 part "S" to 100 parts water(40 ml "S" to 1 gallon water).

For temperature below freezing:

MB Windshield Washer Concentrate"S" and commercially availablepremixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze

1 part "S" to 100 parts solvent(40 ml "S" to 1 gallon solvent).

Windshield Wiper Smears

If the windshield wiper smears thewindshield, even during rain, activatethe washer system as often asnecessary. The fluid in the washerreservoir should be mixed in thecorrect ratio.

Blocked Windshield Wiper

If the windshield wiper becomesblocked (for example, due to snow),switch off the wiper.

For safety reasons before removingice or snow, remove electronic keyfrom steering lock. Remove blockage.

Activate combination switch again(electronic key in steering lockposition 1).

Headlamp Cleaning System(optional)

The switch is located in the centerconsole

The headlamp washer can beactivated with the electronic key insteering lock position 2.

Briefly press symbol side of switch.

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Exterior Lamp Switch

OffParking lamps(also side marker lamps,taillamps, license plate lamps,instrument panel lamps)Canada only:When the engine is running,the low beam is additionallyswitched on.Parking lamps plus low beamor high beam headlamps(combination switch pushedforward)

Standing lamps, right(turn left one stop)Standing lamps, left(turn left two stops)Front fog lamps(pull out one stop) withparking lamps and/or lowbeam headlamps on. Greenindicator lamp in lampswitch comes on.Rear fog lamp(pull out to 2nd detent) inaddition to fog lamps.Yellow indicator lamp inlamp switch comes on.

Standing Lamps

When the vehicle is parked on thestreet the standing lamps (right or leftside parking lamps) can be turned on,making the vehicle more visible topassing vehicles.The standing lamps cannot be operatedwith the electronic key in steering lockposition 2.Note:With the electronic key removed andthe driver's door open, a warningsounds and the message "SWITCHOFF LIGHTS" in the multifunctionindicator appears if

the vehicle's exterior lamps (exceptstanding lamps) are not switched off.

Fog lamps will operate with theparking lamps and/or the low beamheadlamps on. Fog lamps should onlybe used in conjunction with low beamheadlamps. Consult your State orProvince Motor Vehicle Regulationsregarding allowable lamp operation.

Fog lamps are automatically switchedoff when the exterior lamp switch isturned to position

Daytime Running Lamps(Canada only)

When the engine is running and theselector lever is in a driving position,the low beam headlamps (includesparking lamps, side marker lamps,taillamps and license plate lamps) areautomatically switched on.

When shifting from a driving positionto position "N" or "P", the low beamswitches off (2 seconds delay).

For nighttime driving the exterior lampswitch should be turned to position

to permit activation of the highbeam headlamps.

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Night Security Illumination

When exiting the vehicle after drivingwith the exterior lamps on, they switchon again for added illumination forapproximately 30 seconds afterclosing the last door. The lamp-ontime period can be changed at yourMercedes-Benz dealer.

Inside Rear View Mirror

Manually adjust the mirror.

Use your inside mirror to determine thesize and distance of objects seen in thepassenger side convex mirror.

Antiglare Night Position

With the electronic key in steeringlock position 2, the mirror reflectionbrightness responds to changes inlight sensitivity.

With gear selector lever in position"R", or with the interior lamp switchedon, the mirror brightness does notrespond to changes in light sensitivity.

Note:

The automatic antiglare function isrestricted, if incoming light is notaimed directly at sensors in themirror.

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Exterior Rear View Mirrors

The switch is located on the centerconsole.

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 2.

First select the mirror to beadjusted - press button:

Left mirror

Right mirror

To adjust, toggle the switch forward,backward or to either side.

With the electronic key in steering lockposition 2, the driver's side mirrorreflection brightness responds tochanges in light sensitivity.

With gear selector lever in position"R", or with the interior lamp switchedon, the driver's side mirror brightnessdoes not respond to changes in lightsensitivity.

Warning!

Exercise care when using thepassenger-side mirror. Thepassenger-side exterior mirror isconvex (outwardly curved surfacefor a wider field of view). Objects inmirror are closer than they appear.Check your inside rear view mirroror glance over your shoulder beforechanging lanes.

Note:

The exterior mirrors have electricallyheated glass. The heater switches onautomatically, depending on outsidetemperature.

If an exterior mirror housing is forciblypivoted from its normal position, itmust be repositioned by applying firmpressure until it snaps into place.

Storing Mirror Positions inMemory

The exterior rear view mirror positionsare stored in memory with theseat/head restraint position and can berecalled when necessary, see Index.

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Parking position

The passenger side exterior mirror canbe adjusted and programmed to assistthe driver during parking maneuvers(e.g. to observe the curb or otherobjects close to the vehicle).

With electronic key in steering lockposition 2, and the exterior rear viewmirror switch in the passenger sideposition, the passenger side mirror willbe turned downward when placing thegear selector lever in "R" Reverse.

The mirror position can now beadjusted as desired.

At speeds above approx.6 mph (10km/h), or gear selector lever movedfrom "R" Reverse, or driver's sidemirror selected, the passenger sidemirror returns to its previous position.

Readjust the mirror as desired.

One passenger side mirror positioncan be stored in memory. To do so:

1. Turn electronic key to steeringlock position 2.

2. Select passenger side mirror.3. Place gear selector lever in "R"

Reverse. The mirror will turndownward.

4. Using the toggle switch, selectthe final downward position forthe mirror.

5. Press and hold green memorybutton located in switch clusterfor driver seat.

6. While holding green memorybutton pull the mirror toggleswitch rearward.

7. Release the green button andthe toggle switch. The mirrorposition is now stored inmemory

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Ashtrays

Center Console, Front

By touching the bottom of the coverlightly, the ashtray opensautomatically.

Prior to removing the ashtray insert,move the gear selector lever to position"N".

Warning!

Remove front ashtray only withvehicle standing still. With the gearselector lever in position “N", turnoff the engine and set the parkingbrake. Otherwise the vehicle mightmove as a result of unintendedcontact with the gear selector lever.

To remove ashtray:Push sliding knob (1) toward the right toeject the insert.

To install ashtray:Install insert into ashtray frame and pushdown to engage.

Rear Doors

To remove ashtray:Push left and right sides down andpull out the ashtray.

To install ashtray:Install top of ashtray, push bottompart in to engage

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Lighter

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2.Push in lighter (1); it will pop outautomatically when hot.

Warning!

Never touch the heating element orsides of the lighter, they areextremely hot, hold at knob only.

Note:The lighter socket can be used toaccommodate electrical accessories up tomaximum 85 W.

Sun Visors

Swing sun visors down to protectagainst sun glare.

If sunlight enters through a side window,disengage visor from inner mounting,pivot it to the side.

Illuminated Vanity Mirrors

With the visor engaged in its innermounting, the lamp is switched on byopening the cover.

Warning!

Do not use the vanity mirror whiledriving.

The lamp goes out automatically afterapproximately 5 minutes.

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Interior Lighting

1 Door contact switch:Press once and interior lamps areswitched on when opening a door.Interior lamps are switched on,and off (soft fade) delayed, whenunlocking or locking the vehicle,or when opening or closing a door.However, there will be no (softfade) delay when the electronickey is in steering lock position 2.Press again and interior lampsremain switched off, even whencentrally unlocking or opening adoor.

2 Press to switch interior andreading lamps on or off.

3 Press to switch rear passengercompartment lamp on or off.

4 Press to switch reading lamp onor off

Entrance Lamps, Exit Lamps inDoors

The lamps are switched on and off bythe door contact switches.

Note:

To prevent the vehicle battery frombeing discharged, with doors open allinterior lamps go out afterapproximately 5 minutes.

To prevent the vehicle battery frombeing discharged, with reading lampsswitched on manually and electronickey in steering lock position 0 orremoved, the reading lamps go out afterapproximately 30 minutes.

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Storage Compartments andCup HolderGlove Box

1 Unlocking: Turn mechanical keyto vertical position and remove.

2 Locking: Turn mechanical key tothe right and remove.

3 Opening: Pull on handle.

Storage Compartments aboveAshtray in Center Console

To open: Touch bottom of coverslightly. The cover opensautomatically.

Storage Compartments in CenterConsole

To open compartment in armrest:Lift lid with handle (4).To open compartment under armrest:Lift lid with handle (5).To close:Lower lid until it engages in lock.

Cup Holder in Center ConsoleTo open cover:Touch top of cover (6) slightly. Thecover opens automatically.To open cup holder:Briefly press button (7). The cup holderopens automatically.

To store cup holder:Push button (7) down until cupholder engages. Close cover (6).

Caution!

Keep cup holder closed while traveling.Place only containers that fit into thecup holder to prevent spills.

Do not fill containers to a height wherethe contents could spill during vehiclemaneuvers, especially hot liquids. Keepcompartment lids closed. This willprevent stored objects from beingthrown about and injuring vehicleoccupants during an accident.

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Sliding/Pop-Up Roof (optional)

1 to slide roof open2 to slide roof closed3 to raise roof at rear4 to lower roof at rear

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2.

The switch is illuminated when theexterior lamps are switched on(except standing lamps).

An additional screen can be slid intothe roof opening to guard against sunrays. When sliding the roof open, thescreen will also retract.

Warning!

When closing the sliding/ pop-up roof,be sure that there is no danger ofanyone being harmed by the closingprocedure.

The closing procedure can beimmediately reversed by either movingthe switch in direction (1) or (3), turningthe mechanical key to the unlockingposition, or pressing button on theremote control, and holding it.

Notes:

The sliding/pop-up roof can be openedor closed manually should an electricalmalfunction occur, refer to SlidingRoof, Emergency Operation in Index.

The sliding/pop-up roof can also beclosed with the mechanical key orinfrared remote control while lockingthe vehicle doors or trunk (see CentralLocking System in Index).

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on center console

Power Windows

Switches for:

1 left, front2 left, rear3 right, front4 right, rear5 safety switch6 individual switches (rear doors)

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2.

in rear doors

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2.

Press switch in to resistance point:

to opento close

Release switch when window is indesired position.

Express Opening and Closing

Press switch or past re-sistance point and release - windowopens or closes completely.

To interrupt procedure, briefly pressor .

If the upward movement of the windowis blocked during the closing procedure,the window will stop during the lastfew inches before closure and openslightly.

When pressing and holding the switchto close the window, and upward

movement of the window is blockedduring the last few inches beforeclosure, it will stop but not openslightly.

Blocking of Rear Door WindowOperation

If no operation of the rear windows byswitch (6) (for instance by children) isdesired, slide override switch (5) toright, symbol becomes visible.

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Warning!

When closing the windows, be surethat there is no danger of anyonebeing harmed by the closingprocedure.

In case of obstruction, the automaticreversal will not operate if a windowis being closed by pressing the switchto its resistance point and holding itthere, or when using a mechanicalkey or the remote control.

The closing procedure can beimmediately reversed by eitherpressing the switch , turning themechanical key to the unlockingposition, or pressing button ,and holding it

Note:

The power windows can also be closedwith the mechanical key or infraredremote control while locking thevehicle doors or trunk (see CentralLocking System in Index).

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle, alwaysremove the electronic key from thesteering lock, and lock your vehicle.Do not leave children unattended inthe vehicle or with access to anunlocked vehicle. Unsupervised useof vehicle equipment can causeserious personal injury.

Synchronizing Power Windows

If the power supply was interrupted(battery disconnected or empty), thewindows cannot be opened or closedby the Express feature.

To resynchronize the Express feature,press side of power windowswitch until the window is completelyclosed and hold for additional 2seconds. Repeat procedure for eachwindow.

The automatic full opening and closingprocedure of the windows should nowbe restored.

Parcel Net in Front PassengerFootwell

A small convenience parcel net islocated in the front passenger footwell.It is for small and light items, such asroad maps, mail, etc..

Warning!

Do not place heavy or fragileobjects, or objects having sharpedges, in the parcel net.

In an accident, during hard brakingor sudden maneuvers, they could bethrown around inside the vehicle,and cause injury to vehicleoccupants

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Trunk Lid Release Switch

The switch is located on the centerconsole.

A minimum height clearance of 5.9 ft(1.8 m) is required to open the trunk lid.

To open the trunk, the vehicle must beparked and unlocked. Pull up on switchuntil trunk lid is open.

The indicator lamp remains on withtrunk lid open.

With vehicle centrally locked, thetrunk can also be opened by using theinfrared remote control. Aimtransmitter eye at a receiver and presstransmit button twice.

Note:

The trunk lid cannot be released by theswitch when previously locked withthe key. To open, refer to Trunk,separately locked (in Index).

Rear Window Sunshade

1 Raising2 Lowering

The switch is located on the centerconsole.

Turn key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2.

The sunshade should always be eitherfully raised or fully lowered.

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Instrument Lamps

Press + or - button to vary intensity ofinstrument lamps.

Display Illumination

The display for temperature, odometer,multifunction indicator, FSS indicatorand clock is illuminated briefly whenopening the driver door.

The display illumination brightnessresponds automatically according tochanges in the surrounding lightsensitivity.

To briefly illuminate the display (withelectronic key removed or in steeringlock position 0 or 1), press button O, +,-, h, m or R.

Trip Odometer

To reset:

• Press and hold button O(with display illuminated).

• Press button O twice and hold(with display not illuminated).

Clock

Adjusting clock(display illuminated):

Press button m or h briefly. Thedisplay flashes to indicate that theclock can be adjusted.

Minute: Press button m briefly.

Minutes: Press and hold button m.

Hour: Press button h briefly. Hours:

Press and hold button h .

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Garage Door Opener

1 Remote control transmitterlocated on inside rear viewmirror

2 Portable remote controltransmitter

Warning!

When programming a garage dooropener, the door moves up or down.When programming or operating theremote control make sure there is nopossibility of anyone being harmedby the moving door.

The visor remote control is capable ofoperating up to three separatelycontrolled objects.

Notes:

Certain types of garage door openers areincompatible with the integrated opener.If you should experience difficulties withprogramming the transmitter, contactyour authorized Mercedes-Benz dealeror call Mercedes-Benz CustomerAssistance Center (in the U.S.A. only) at1-800-FOR-MERCedes.

For operation in the USA only: Thisdevise complies with Part 15 of the FCCRules. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions:

(1) This device may not causeharmful interference, and(2)(3) this device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may causeundesired operation.

Any unauthorized modification to thisdevice could void the user's authority tooperate the equipment.

Programming or reprogramming theremote control:

1. Turn electronic key in steeringlock to position 1 or 2.

2. Press and hold one button ofthe remote control located onthe inside rear view mirror untilits control light begins to flash ata rate of about once a second.Continue holding down thebutton.

Note:

The light blinks immediately if theremote control is beingprogrammed for the first time, or ifits memory was previously erased.If you are reprogramming apreviously used button, the lightwill flash after about 20 seconds.

3. Hold end opposite to battery ofportable remote control againstthe inside rear view mirror trans-mitter to be programmed. Whilestill holding down the button onthe transmitter on the inside rearview mirror, press down thebutton on your portable remote

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control, until the inside rear viewmirror remote control light starts toflash rapidly. This means that theintegrated remote control has acceptedthe frequency and code of the portabletransmitter.

4. If you wish, repeat the procedurefor each remaining button.

Note:

If the garage door opener isequipped with the "rolling codefeature", it needs to be trained toaccept the remote control command.To do so, the assistance of asecond person is required.

1. Locate training button (part ofthe opener unit in the garage).

2. Press and hold training buttonuntil training light next to thebutton begins to flash (in twoseconds).

3. Now have the second personpress and hold the previouslyprogrammed button on theintegrated remote controltransmitter until the training lighton the garage door opener is litcontinuously (in two seconds).

4. Release and press th

programmed button on theintegrated remote control trans-mitter once again to turn off thetraining light in the garage dooropener.

5. Confirm the garage dooroperation by pressing theprogrammed button on theintegrated remote controltransmitter.

Operation of remote control:

1. Turn electronic key in steeringlock to position 1 or 2.

2. Select and press the appropriatebutton to activate theremote controlled device. Theintegrated remote controltransmitter continues to sendthe signal as long as the buttonis pressed - up to 20 seconds.

Erasing the integrated remotecontrol memory:

1. Turn electronic key in steeringlock to position 1 or 2.

Simultaneousy holding down theleft and right side buttons forapproximately 20 seconds,

or until the control light blinksrapidly, will erase the codes ofall three channels.

Cellular Telephone

The vehicle is prepared for theinstallation of a cellular telephone. Forfurther information and installationcontact your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Warning!

Some jurisdictions prohibit thedriver from using a cellulartelephone while driving a vehicle.Whether or not prohibited by law,for safety reasons, the driver shouldnot use the cellular telephone whilethe vehicle is in motion. Stop thevehicle in a safe location beforeanswering or placing a call.

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Driving

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Drinking and Driving

Warning!

Drinking and driving can be a verydangerous combination. Even a smallamount of alcohol or drugs can affectyour reflexes, perceptions andjudgement.

The possibility of a serious or evenfatal accident is sharply increasedwhen you drink and drive.

Please don't drink and drive or allowanyone to drive after drinking. Parking Brake

To engage, firmly depress parkingbrake pedal. When the electronic keyis in steering lock position 2, the brakewarning lamp in the instrument clustershould come on brightly.To release the parking brake, pullhandle on instrument panel. The brakewarning lamp in the instrument clustershould go out.A warning sounds, if you start to drivewithout having released the parkingbrake.

Also see Brake Warning Lamp Test inIndex

Driving Off

Apply the service brakes to test thembriefly after driving off. Perform thisprocedure only when the road is clearof other traffic.

Warm up the engine smoothly. Do notplace full load on the engine until theoperating temperature has beenreached.

When starting off on a slippery surface,do not allow one drive wheel to spin foran extended period.

Warning!

Keep driver's foot area clear at alltimes. Objects stored in this areamay impair pedal movement.

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Automatic Transmission

The automatic transmission selectsindividual gears automatically,dependent upon

• Selector lever position• Program mode selector• Accelerator position• Vehicle speed

The gear shifting process iscontinuously adapted, dependent on thedriving style, the driving situation andthe road characteristics.

Important!

When parking the car or beforeworking on the vehicle with the enginerunning, firmly depress the parkingbrake pedal and shift the selector leverinto "P".

Driving

The selector lever is automaticallylocked while in position "P". To movethe selector lever out of position "P",the service brake pedal must be firmlydepressed before the shift lock willrelease.

Shift selector lever to the desiredposition only when the engine is idlingnormally and the service brake isapplied. Do not release the brake untilready to drive. The vehicle mayotherwise start creeping when theselector lever is in drive or reverseposition.

Warning!

It is dangerous to shift the selectorlever out of "P" or "N" if the enqinespeed is higher than idle speed. Ifyour foot is not firmly on the brakepedal, the vehicle could acceleratequickly forward or in reverse. Youcould lose control of the vehicle andhit someone or something. Only shiftinto gear when the engine is idlingnormally and when your right foot isfirmly on the brake pedal.

Important!

After selecting any driving positionfrom "N" or "P", wait a moment toallow the gear to fully engage beforeaccelerating, especially when theengine is cold.

Accelerator Position

Partial throttle = early upshifting =normal acceleration

Full throttle = later upshifting = rapidacceleration

Kickdown (depressing the acceleratorbeyond full throttle) = downshifting toa lower gear = maximum acceleration.Once the desired speed is attained, easeup on the accelerator - the transmissionshifts up again.

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Selector Lever Positions

The automatic gear shifting process canbe adapted to specific operatingconditions using the selector lever.

P Parking position.The parking position is to be usedwhen parking the vehicle. Engageonly with the car stopped. Theparking position is not intended toserve as a brake when the vehicle isparked. Rather, the driver shouldalways use the parking brake inaddition to placing the selector leverin park to secure the vehicle.

Note:

The electronic key can be removedfrom the steering lock only with thefoot off the brake pedal and theselector lever in position "P". Withthe electronic key removed, theselector lever is locked in position"P".

R Reverse gear.Shift to reverse gear only with thevehicle stopped.Dependent on the program modeselector switch position "S" or "W"the maximum speed in the reversegear is different. However, it is notpossible to change the programmode while in reverse.

N Neutral.No power is transmitted from theengine to the rear axle. When thebrakes are released, the vehicle canbe moved freely (pushed or towed).Do not engage "N" while drivingexcept to coast when the vehicle isin danger of skidding (e.g. on icyroads, see Winter drivingInstructions in Index).

Important!

Coasting the vehicle, or driving forany other reason with selector leverin "N" can result in transmissiondamage that is not covered by theMercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

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D The transmission automaticallyupshifts through 5th gear. Position"D" provides optimum drivingcharacteristics under all normaloperating conditions.

4 Upshift through 4th gear only.Suitable for performance driving.To shift from position "D" to "4",push selector lever to the left.

3 Upshift through 3rd gear only.Suitable for moderately steep hills.Since the transmission does not shifthigher than 3rd gear, this gearselection will allow use of theengine's braking power downhill.

2 Upshift through 2nd gear only. Fordriving in mountainous regions orunder extreme operating conditions.This gear selection will allow use ofthe engine's braking power whendescending steep grades.

1 In this position, the engine's brakingeffect is utilized by shifting into 1stgear. Use this position whiledescending very steep or lengthydowngrades and only at speeds below40 mph (60 km/h)

Important!

With selector lever in position "D", "4"or "3", upshifting from 1st to 2nd to 3rdgear is delayed depending on vehiclespeed and engine temperature. Thisallows the catalytic converter to heat upmore quickly to operating temperatures.

During the brief warm-up period thisdelayed upshift and increased enginenoise might be perceived as amalfunction. However, neither theengine nor transmission are negativelyaffected by this mode of operation.

The delayed upshift is effective withvehicle speeds below 31 mph (50 km/h)at partial throttle and enginetemperatures below 95°F (35°C).

To avoid overrevving the engine whenthe selector lever is moved to a lowerdriving range, the transmission will notshift to a lower gear, if the engine'sspeed limit would be exceeded. In thiscase there will be no downshift, evenwhen the vehicle speed reaches theengine's speed limit of that gear, e.g. byapplying the service brakes. Continuedriving in the

usual manner. The transmission willthen shift down automatically.

To prevent the engine from laboring atlow RPM when driving uphillgradients or with your vehicle heavilyloaded, the automatic transmission willdownshift when necessary to maintainengine RPM within the best torquerange.

Warning!

On slippery road surfaces, neverdownshift in order to obtain brakingaction. This could result in drive wheelslip and reduced vehicle control. Yourvehicle's ABS will not prevent thistype of loss of control.

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Maneuvering

To maneuver in tight areas, e.g. whenpulling into a parking space, control thevehicle speed by gradually releasingthe brakes. Accelerate gently and neverabruptly step on the accelerator.To rock a vehicle out of soft ground(mud or snow), alternately shift fromforward to reverse, while applying slightpartial throttle.

Rocking a vehicle free in this mannermay cause the ABS malfunctionindicator lamp to come on. Turn off andrestart the engine to clear themalfunction indication.

StoppingFor brief stops, e.g. at traffic lights,leave the transmission in gear and holdvehicle with the service brake.

For longer stops with the engine idling,shift into "N" or "P" and hold the vehiclewith the service brake.

When stopping the vehicle on an uphillgradient, do not hold it with theaccelerator, use the brake. This avoidsunnecessary transmission heat buildup.

Warning!

Getting out of your vehicle with theselector lever not fully engaged inposition "P" is dangerous. Also,when parked on an incline, position"P" alone may not prevent yourvehicle from moving, possiblyhitting people or objects.

Always set the parking brake inaddition to shifting to position "P".

When parked on an incline, also turnfront wheel against curb.

Program Mode Selector Switch

The transmission is provided with aselector switch for Standard "S" andWinter/Wet (snow and ice) "W"program modes.Caution!Never change the program mode whenthe selector lever is out of position "P".It could result in a change of drivingcharacteristics for which you may notbe prepared.Important!Always be certain of the program modeselected since the vehicle drivingcharacteristics change with the selectionof the program mode.

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S Standard mode

Press switch on symbol "S". Usethis mode for all regular driving.The vehicle starts out in 1st gear.

Accelerator Operation: Fast on =depressing the accelerator pedalquickly (not into kickdown position)while driving continuously, ratherthan depressing the acceleratorpedal in the usual manner, willcause the automatic transmission toshift down into a lower gear. Thisgear shifting process is dependenton the current vehicle speed.

Fast off = there will be no upshiftwhen releasing the accelerator pedalquickly, e.g. using the engine'sbraking power during performancedriving.

W Winter/Wet (snow and ice) mode

Press switch on symbol "W". Thevehicle starts out in 2nd gear,except with selector lever in 1 stgear, or with accelerator pedal inkick-down position.

The "W" mode helps to improvetraction and driving stability of thevehicle.

The gear shifting process occurs atlower vehicle and engine speedsthan in the "S" program mode.

Important!

Dependent on the program modeselector switch position "S" or "W" andthe gear selector lever in position "R",the ratio of power transmission changes.

Emergency Operation(Limp Home Mode)

If vehicle acceleration worsens, or thetransmission no longer shifts, thetransmission is most likely operatingin Limp Home Mode which engageswhen there is a malfunction at thetransmission. This condition may beaccompanied by the "CHECKENGINE" malfunction indicator lampin the instrument cluster coming on.In this mode only the 2nd gear orreverse gear can be activated.

To engage 2nd gear or reverse:

1. Stop the vehicle.2. Move selector lever to

position "P".3. Turn off the engine.4. Wait 10 seconds.5. Restart the engine.6. Move selector lever to

position "D" (for 2nd gear), ormove selector lever toposition "R" (for reverse gear).

Have the transmission checked atyour authorized Mercedes-Benzdealer as soon as possible.

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Cruise Control

Any given speed above approximately 25mph (40 km/h) can be maintained with thecruise control by operating the lever.

1 Accelerate and set:Lift lever briefly to set speed. Holdlever up to accelerate.

2 Decelerate and set:Depress lever briefly to setspeed.Hold lever down to decelerate

Normally the vehicle is accelerated tothe desired speed with the accelerator.

Speed is set by briefly pushing the leverto position 1 or 2. The accelerator canbe released.

The speed can be increased (e.g. forpassing) by using the accelerator. Afterthe accelerator is released, thepreviously set speed will be resumedautomatically.

If a set speed is to be increased ordecreased slightly, e.g. to adapt to thetraffic flow, hold lever in position 1 or 2until the desired speed is reached, orbriefly tip the lever in the appropriatedirection for increases or decreases in0.6 mph (1 km/h) increments. When thelever is released, the newly set speedremains.

3 Canceling

To cancel the cruise control, brieflypush lever to position 3.

When you step on the brake pedalor the vehicle speed drops belowapprox. 25 mph (40 km/h), forexample when driving upgrade, thecruise control will be canceled.

If the cruise control cancels by itselfand remains inoperative until theengine is restarted, have the systemchecked at your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer as soon aspossible.

4 ResumeIf the lever is briefly pushed toposition 4 when driving at a speedexceeding approx. 25 mph (40km/h), the vehicle resumes thespeed which was set prior to thecancellation of the cruise control.The last memorized speed iscanceled when the electronic key inthe steering lock is turned toposition 1 or 0.

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Notes:

If the engine does not brake the vehiclesufficiently while driving on adowngrade, the speed you set on thecruise control may be exceeded andyou may have to step on the brakepedal to slow down. As soon as thegrade eases, the cruise controlled speedwill again be maintained as long as thebrakes were not previously applied, orthe lever may be used to resume thepreviously set speed if the brakes wereapplied.

Important!

Moving gear selector lever to position"N" switches the cruise control off.

Warning!

Only use the cruise control if thetraffic and weather conditions makeit advisable to travel at a steadyspeed.

• The use of cruise control can bedangerous on winding roads orin heavy traffic becauseconditions do not allow safedriving at a steady speed.

• The use of cruise control can bedangerous on slippery roads.Rapid changes in tire adhesioncan result in wheel spin and lossof control.

The "Resume" function should onlybe operated if the driver is fullyaware of the previously set speed andwishes to resume this particularpreset speed.

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Multifunction Indicator

Language Selection

Warning message selection is availablein the English, French, German, Italian,or Spanish language.

With the electronic key in steering lockposition 2, simultaneously press resetbuttons for Trip Odometer (O) andMultifunction Indicator (R), located inthe instrument cluster, until the presentlyselected language appears on the screen.

Press button O until the requestedlanguage appears.

Turn the electronic key in steering lockto position 0.

Multiple Malfunctions

When the multiple malfunction symbolappears, this indicates that severalmalfunction messages are stored inmemory.

Push reset button (R) in the instrumentcluster for subsequent messages.

Temporarily Switching Off

To temporarily switch off themultifunction indicator warningsymbol and message, push reset button(R) in the instrument cluster.

The multifunction indicator display isinoperative until the electronic key insteering lock is turned again to position0 or 2.

The symbols and messages for ParkingBrake, Seat Belts, Exterior Lights, andDisplay Defective cannot be switchedoff.

Defective

When the message "Display Defective"appears, this indicates that the systemis not operational, and possibly otherwarnings cannot be shown.

Have the vehicle electronic systemchecked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.

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Charge Indicator

When the symbol and message appearwhile the engine is running, thisindicates a fault which must be repairedat an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerimmediately.

It may indicate that the poly-V-belt hasbroken. Should this condition occur,the poly-V-belt must be replaced beforecontinuing to operate the vehicle.Otherwise, the engine will overheat dueto an inoperative water pump whichmay result in damage to the engine.

Do not continue to drive the vehiclewith the charge indicator symboldisplayed. Doing so could result inserious engine damage that is notcovered by the Mercedes-Benz LimitedWarranty.

Low Engine Oil Level Warning

When the symbol and message appearwhile the engine is running and atoperating temperature, the engine oillevel has dropped to approximately theminimum mark on the dipstick.

When this occurs, the warning will firstcome on intermittently and then stay onif the oil level drops further.If no oil leaks are noted, continue todrive to the nearest service stationwhere the engine oil should be toppedto the "full" mark on the dipstick withan approved oil.

The low engine oil level warning shouldnot be ignored. Extended driving withthe symbol displayed could result inserious engine damage that is notcovered by the Mercedes-Benz LimitedWarranty.

In addition to the warning symbol, theengine oil level should be periodicallychecked with the dipstick or via themultifunction indicator, for exampleduring a fuel stop, or before a long trip(see Index).

Note:

E 300 Turbodiesel - Oil level check viamultifunction indicator not possible.

Engine Oil Consumption

Engine oil consumption checks shouldonly be made after the break-in period.During the break

in period, higher oil consumption maybe noticed and is normal. Frequentdriving at high engine speeds resultsin increased consumption.

Fuel Reserve and Fuel CapPlacement Warning

When the symbol and message appearafter starting the engine, or if it comeson while driving, it indicates that thefuel level is down to the reservequantity of approximately: 2.6 gal (10liters).

The warning lamp blinks when the fuelcap is not closed, or a fuel system leakhas been detected. Retighten cap andsee if lamp goes out.

If the warning lamp continues to blinkafter closing the fuel cap correctly,have the fuel system checked at yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer assoon as possible.

Leaving the engine running and the fuelcap open can cause the "Check Engine"lamp to illuminate.

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Tachometer

Red marking on tachometer: Excessiveengine speed.

Avoid this engine speed, as it may resultin serious engine damage that is notcovered by the Mercedes-Benz LimitedWarranty.

For engine protection, the fuel supply isinterrupted if the engine is operatedwithin the red marking.

Seat Belt Warning Lamp

With the electronic key in steering lockposition 2, the warning lamp comes on, amessage is displayed in the multifunctionindicator, and a warning sounds for ashort time if the drivers seat belt is notfastened.

After starting the engine, the warninglamp blinks for a brief period to remindthe driver and passengers to fasten seatbelts.

Outside Temperature Indicator

The temperature sensor is located in thefront bumper area. Due to its location,the sensor can be affected by road orengine heat during idling or slowdriving. This means that the accuracy ofthe displayed temperature can only beverified by comparison to athermometer placed next to the sensor,not by comparison to external displays(e.g. bank signs etc.).

Adaptation to ambient temperature takesplace in steps and depends on theprevailing driving conditions (stop-and-go or moderate, constant driving) andamount of temperature change.

Warning!

The outside temperature indicator isnot designed to serve as an Ice-Warning Device and is therefore un-suitable for that purpose. Indicatedtemperatures just above the freezingpoint do not guarantee that the roadsurface is free of ice.

Coolant Temperature Gauge

If the antifreeze mixture is effective to-22°F (-30°C), the boiling point of thecoolant in the pressurized coolingsystem of your vehicle is approx.266°F (130°C).

During severe operating conditions andstop-and-go city traffic, the coolanttemperature may rise close to the redmarking.

The engine should not be operated withthe coolant temperature in the red zone.Doing so may cause serious enginedamage which is not covered by theMercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

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Warning!

• Driving when your engine is badlyoverheated can cause some fluidswhich may have leaked into theengine compartment to catch fire.You could be seriously burned.

• Steam from an overheated enginecan cause serious burns and canoccur just by opening the enginehood. Stay away from the engineif you see or hear steam comingfrom it.

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

Low Engine Coolant LevelWarning

When the symbol and message appearwhile driving, then the coolant levelhas dropped below the required level. Ifno leaks are noticeable and the enginetemperature does not increase, continueto drive to the nearest service stationand have coolant added to the coolantsystem (see Index).

The low engine coolant level warningshould not be ignored. Extendeddriving with the symbol displayed maycause serious engine damage notcovered by the Mercedes-Benz LimitedWarranty.

In cases of major or frequent minorcoolant loss, have the cooling systemchecked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.

Note:

Do not drive without coolant in thecooling system. The engine willoverheat causing major engine damage.

Monitor the coolant temperature gaugewhile driving.

Warning!

Do not spill antifreeze on hot engineparts. Antifreeze contains ethyleneglycol which may burn if it comesinto contact with hot engine parts.You can be seriously burned.

Low Windshield and HeadlampWasher System Fluid Level Warning

When the symbol and message appearwhile the engine is running, the level ofthe reservoir has dropped to approx. 1/3of the total volume. The reservoirshould be refilled with MB WindshieldWasher Concentrate "S" and water (orcommercially available premixedwindshield washer solvent/antifreeze,depending on ambient temperature -see Index) at the next opportunity. Thereservoir for the windshield andheadlamp washer systems is located inthe engine compartment.

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Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator

When the symbol and message appearafter starting the engine, or if it comes onwhile driving, this symbol indicates afailure in the parking lamp, taillamps,stop lamp, or low beam headlamp.

If an exterior lamp fails, the indicatorsymbol will come on only when thatlamp is switched on.

If a brake lamp fails, the lamp failureindicator will come on when applyingthe brake and stays on until the engine isturned off.

Note:

If additional lighting equipment isinstalled (e.g. auxiliary headlamps etc.)be certain to connect into the fuse beforethe failure indicator monitoring unit inorder to avoid damaging the system.

Brake Pad Wear Indicator

When the symbol and message appearduring braking, this indicates that thebrake pads are worn down.

Have the brake system checked at yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer assoon as possible.

Brake Warning

When the brake warning lamp andmessage appear while the engine isrunning, this means:

• there is insufficient brake fluid inthe reservoir (engine runningand parking brake released), or

• the parking brake is set (enginerunning).

Warning!

Driving with the brake warninglamp illuminated can result in anaccident. Have your brake systemchecked immediately if the brakewarning lamp stays on. Don't addbrake fluid before checking thebrake system. Overfilling the brakefluid reservoir can result in spillingbrake fluid on hot engine parts andthe brake fluid catching fire. Youcan be seriously burned.

Note:

If you find that the minimum mark onthe brake fluid reservoir is reached,have the brake system checked forbrake pad thickness and leaks.

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Flexible Service System (FSS)

The FSS permits a flexible serviceschedule that is directly related to theoperating conditions of the vehicle.

The symbol appears together witha message in the multifunction indicatorprior to the next suggested service.Depending on operating conditionsthroughout the year, the next service iscalculated and displayed in days ordistance remaining.

The message is displayed for approx.10 seconds when turning the electronickey in steering lock to position 2, or itcan be canceled manually by pressingbutton 0.

Once the suggested term has passed,the symbol plus message"EXCEEDED BY" appear, when turningthe electronic key to position 2.

The FSS display can also be called upfor approx.10 seconds with displayilluminated by pressing button 0 twice.

Following a completed service theMercedes-Benz dealer sets the counterto 10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km)and 365 days.

The counter can also be set by anyindividual. To do so:

1. Turn electronic key in steeringlock to position 2.

2. Within 4 seconds press button 0twice.

3. The present status for days ordistance is displayed. Within10 seconds turn electronic key insteering lock to position 0.

4. Press and hold button 0, whileturning electronic key in steeringlock to position 2 again. The present status for days or distanceis displayed once more. Continueto hold button 0.After approx. 10 seconds a signalsounds, and the display shows10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km).

5. Release button 0.

If the FSS counter was inadvertentlyreset, have a Mercedes-Benz dealercorrect it.

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Notes:

When disconnecting vehicle battery forone or more days at a time, such dayswill not be counted. Any such days notcounted by the FSS can be added byyour Mercedes-Benz dealer. Theinterval between services is determinedby the kind of vehicle operation.Driving at extreme speeds, and coldstarts combined with short distancedriving in which the engine does notreach normal operating temperature,reduce the interval between services.

Models E 320 and E 430, E 55 AMG:

The FSS allows for distances between10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km) and20 000 miles (Canada: 30 000 km), orfrom 365 to 730 days between services.

Model E 300 TURBODIESEL:

The FSS allows for distances between10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km) and15 000 miles (Canada: 22 500 km), orfrom 365 to 730 days between services.

However you choose to set yourreference numbers, the scheduledservices as posted in the ServiceBooklet must be followed to properlycare for your vehicle.

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Antilock Brake System (ABS)

Important!

The ABS improves steering control ofthe vehicle during braking maneuvers.Do not pump the brake pedal, ratheruse firm, steady brake pedal pressure.Pumping the brake pedal defeats thepurpose for ABS and significantlyreduces braking effectiveness.

The ABS prevents the wheels fromlocking up above a vehicle speed ofapproximately 5 mph (8 km/h)independent of road surface conditions.

At the instant one of the wheels isabout to lock up, a slight pulsation canbe felt in the brake pedal, indicatingthat the ABS is in the regulating mode.Keep firm and steady pressure on thebrake pedal while experiencing thepulsation.

On slippery road surfaces, the ABS willrespond even with light brake pedalpressure because of the increasedlikelihood of locking wheels. Thepulsating brake pedal can be anindication of hazardous road conditionsand functions as a reminder to takeextra care while driving.

ABS Control

The ABS malfunction indicator lamp inthe instrument cluster comes on with theelectronic key in steering lock position 2and should go out with the enginerunning.

When the ABS malfunction indicatorlamp symbol and warning in theinstrument cluster come on while theengine is running, it indicates that theABS has detected a malfunction and hasswitched off. In this case, the brakesystem functions in the usual manner,but without antilock assistance.

With the ABS malfunctioning, the BAS,ASR or ESP, if vehicle so equipped, arealso switched off. Both malfunctionindicator lamps come on with the enginerunning.

If the charging voltage falls below 10volts, the malfunction indicator lampcomes on and the ABS is switched off.When the voltage is above this valueagain, the malfunction indicator lampshould go out and the ABS should beoperational.Have the system checked at yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer assoon as possible.

Warning!

ABS cannot prevent the natural lawsof physics from acting on the vehicle,nor can it increase the traction madeavailable by the road conditions. TheABS cannot prevent accidents,including those resulting fromexcessive speed in turns, followinganother vehicle too closely, oraquaplaning. Only a safe, attentive,and skillful driver can preventaccidents. The capabilities of an ABSequipped vehicle must never beexploited in a reckless or dangerousmanner which could jeopardize theuser's safety or the safety of others.

Note:

To alert following vehicles to slipperyroad conditions you discover, operateyour hazard warning flashers asappropriate.

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Brake Assist System (BAS)

Warning!

BAS cannot prevent the natural lawsof physics from acting on the vehicle,nor can it increase braking efficiencybeyond that afforded by thecondition of the vehicle brakes andtires or the traction afforded. TheBAS cannot prevent accidents,including those resulting fromexcessive speed in turns, followinganother vehicle too closely, or aqua-planing. Only a safe, attentive, andskillful driver can prevent accidents.The capabilities of a BAS equippedvehicle must never be exploited in areckless or dangerous manner whichcould jeopardize the user's safety orthe safety of others.

The BAS is designed to maximize thevehicle's braking capability duringemergency braking maneuvers byhaving maximum power boost appliedto the brakes more quickly inemergency braking conditions thanmight otherwise be afforded solely bythe driver's braking style. This can helpreduce braking distances over whatordinary driving and braking stylemight do. The BAS complements theAntilock Brake System (ABS).

To receive the benefit of the systemyou must apply continuous full brakingpower during the stopping sequence.Do not reduce brake pedal pressure.

Once the brake pedal is released, theBAS is deactivated

The malfunction indicator lamps forthe ASR or ESP are combined with theBAS malfunction indicator lamp.

The BAS/ASR or BAS/ESPmalfunction indicator lamp in theinstrument cluster comes on with theelectronic key in steering lock position2 and should go out with the enginerunning.

If the BAS/ASR or BAS/ESPmalfunction indicator lamp comes onpermanently while the engine isrunning, a malfunction has beendetected in either system. As a result, itis possible that now only partial engineoutput will be available, and pressingthe accelerator pedal will require moreeffort. If the BAS malfunctions, thebrake system functions in the usualmanner, but without BAS.

If the charging voltage falls below 10volts, the malfunction indicator lampcomes on and the BAS is switched off.When the voltage is above this valueagain, the malfunction indicator lampshould go out and the BAS isoperational.

With the ABS malfunctioning, theBAS, ASR or ESP are also switchedoff. Both malfunction indicator lampscome on with the engine running.

Have the BAS, ASR or ESP checked atyour authorized Mercedes-Benz dealeras soon as possible.

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Electronic Traction System (ETS)(Model E320 with All Wheel Drive[AWD]: 4-ETS)

The 4-ETS improves vehicle's abilityto utilize available traction, especiallyunder slippery road conditions. Thebrakes are applied to the spinningwheel and power is transferred to thewheel(s) with traction. Atapproximately 50 mph (80 km/h), theETS switches off at the front wheels,and at approximately 80 mph (130km/h) at the rear wheels.The ETS warning lamp, located in thespeedometer dial, starts to flash atany vehicle speed, as soon as thetires lose traction and the wheelsbegin to spin.

Important!If the ETS warning lamp flashes:• during take-off, apply as little

throttle as possible,• while driving, ease up on the

accelerator.Adapt your speed and driving to theprevailing road conditions.

ETS ControlIf the yellow BAS/ETS malfunctionindicator lamp comes on while the

ETS warning lamp flashes, with theengine running, the electronic tractionsystem is being switched offtemporarily on one ore more wheelsto prevent overheating of the drivewheel brakes.

If the BAS/ETS malfunction indicatorlamp comes on permanently with theengine running, a malfunction hasbeen detected in either system.If the BAS malfunctions, the brakesystem functions in the usual manner,but without BAS.Have the BAS or ETS checked at yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer assoon as possible.With the ABS malfunctioning, the ETSis also switched off.

Caution!

Model E320 with AWD: 4-ETSOperational tests with the enginerunning can only be conducted on a 2-axle dynamometer. Otherwise the 4-ETS applies the brakes to the spinningwheels.If the vehicle is towed with one axleraised (see Towing the vehicle inIndex), or when testing the parkingbrake on a brake test dynamo

meter, the engine must be shut off(electronic key in steering lockposition 0 or 1). Otherwise, theelectronic traction system willimmediately be engaged and willapply the brakes.Notes:The indicator lamp for the ETS iscombined with that of the BASThe yellow BAS/ETS malfunctionindicator lamp in the instrumentcluster and the yellow ETS warninglamp in the speedometer dial comeon with the electronic key in steeringlock position 2. They should go outwith the engine running.Driving the vehicle with varied sizetires will cause the wheels to rotate atdifferent speeds, therefore theacceleration slip regulation mayactivate (yellow ETS warning lamp inspeedometer dial comes on). For thisreason, all wheels, including thespare wheel, must have the same tiresize.

In winter operation, the maximumeffectiveness of the four wheelelectronic traction system is onlyachieved with Mercedes-Benzrecommended M+S rated radial-plytires and/or snow chains.

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Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR)

The acceleration slip regulation willengage at all vehicle speeds, if one orboth drive wheels begin to lose tractionand spin due to excessive acceleration.While engaged, the yellow warninglamp in the speedometer flashes.

With the acceleration slip regulationengaged, the brake is applied to thespinning drive wheel until it regainssufficient traction. If both drive wheelslose traction and spin, the brake isapplied to both drive wheels andsimultaneously, engine torque islimited, to improve the vehicle'sdriving stability.

As traction on the road surfaceincreases, the allowable engine torquealso increases again and the brake is nolonger applied to drive wheels.

Important!

If the ASR warning lamp flashes, adaptyour speed and driving to theprevailing road conditions.

Caution!

If the vehicle is towed with the frontaxle raised (see Towing the vehicle inIndex), the engine must be shut off(electronic key in steering lock position0 or 1). Otherwise, the acceleration slipregulation will immediately be engagedand will apply the rear wheel brakes.

Notes:

The indicator lamp for the ASR iscombined with that of the BASThe yellow BAS/ASR malfunctionindicator lamp in the instrument clusterand the yellow ASR warning lamp inthe speedometer dial come on with theelectronic key in steering lock position2. They should go out with the enginerunning.

If the BAS/ASR malfunction indicatorlamp comes on with the engine running,a malfunction has been detected ineither system. Pressing the acceleratorpedal will require greater effort. Onlypartial engine output will be available.

If the BAS malfunctions, the brakesystem functions in the usual manner,but without BAS.

Have the BAS or ASR checked at yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer assoon as possible.

With the ABS malfunctioning, theASR is also switched off.

Driving the vehicle with varied sizetires will cause the wheels to rotate atdifferent speeds, therefore theacceleration slip regulation mayactivate (yellow ASR warning lamp inspeedometer dial comes on). For thisreason, all wheels, including the sparewheel, must have the same tire size.

When testing the parking brake on abrake test dynamometer, the enginemust be shut off. Otherwise, theacceleration slip regulation willimmediately be engaged and will applythe rear wheel brakes.In winter operation, the maximumeffectiveness of the acceleration slipregulation is only achieved withMercedes-Benz recommended M+Srated radial-ply tires and/or snowchains.

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ASR Control Switch

ASR control switch located on centerconsole

To improve the vehicle's traction whendriving with snow chains, or startingoff in deep snow, sand or gravel, pressthe upper half of the ASR switch. TheASR warning lamp, located in thespeedometer dial, is continuouslyilluminated.

With the ASR system switched off, theengine torque reduction feature iscancelled. Therefore, the enhancedvehicle stability offered by ASR isunavailable.

Adapt your speed and driving to theprevailing road conditions.

A portion of the ASR system remainsactive, even with the switch in the OFFposition.

If one drive wheel loses traction andbegins to spin, the brake is applied untilthe wheel regains sufficient traction. Thetraction control engages at vehiclespeeds up to approximately 24 mph (40km/h), and switches off at 50 mph (80km/h).

Note:

Avoid spinning of one drive wheel.Doing so may cause serious damage tothe drive train which is not covered bythe Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

The ASR warning lamp, located in thespeedometer dial, starts to flash at anyvehicle speed as soon as the tires losetraction and the wheels begin to spin.

To return to the enhanced vehiclestability offered by ASR: press lowerhalf of the switch (the ASR warninglamp in the speedometer dial goes out).

Important!

If the ASR warning lamp flashes:

• during take-off, apply as littlethrottle as possible,

• while driving, ease up on theaccelerator.

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Electronic Stability Program(ESP) (optional)

(standard on E 430 and E 55 AMG;optional on E 300 TD and E 320)

The ESP enhances directional controland reduces driving wheel spin of thevehicle under any driving condition.

Over/understeering of the vehicle iscounteracted by applying brakes to theappropriate wheel to create acounterpointing vehicle movement.The ESP warning lamp, located in thespeedometer dial, starts to flash.

Important!

If the ESP warning lamp flashes, adaptyour speed and driving to theprevailing road conditions.

Caution!

If the vehicle is towed with the frontaxle raised (see Towing the vehicle inIndex), the engine must be shut off(electronic key in steering lock position0 or 1). Otherwise, the ESP willimmediately be engaged and will applythe rear wheel brakes.

Notes:

The indicator lamp for the ESP iscombined with that of the BAS.The yellow BAS/ESP malfunctionindicator lamp in the instrument clusterand the yellow ESP warning lamp inthe speedometer dial come on with theelectronic key in steering lock position2. They should go out with the enginerunning.

If the BAS/ESP malfunction indicatorlamp comes on permanently with theengine running, a malfunction hasbeen detected in either system.Pressing the accelerator pedal willrequire greater effort. Only partialengine output will be available.

If the BAS malfunctions, the brakesystem functions in the usual manner,but without BAS.

Have the BAS or ESP checked at yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer assoon as possible.

With the ABS malfunctioning, the ESPis also switched off.

Driving the vehicle with varied sizetires will cause the wheels to rotate atdifferent speeds, therefore theelectronic stability program mayactivate (yellow ESP warning lamp inspeedometer dial comes on). For thisreason, all wheels, including the sparewheel, must have the same tire size.

When testing the parking brake on abrake test dynamometer, the enginemust be shut off. Otherwise, theelectronic stability program willimmediately be engaged and willapply the rear wheel brakes.In winter operation, the maximumeffectiveness of the electronic stabilityprogram is only achieved withMercedes-Benz recommended M+Srated radial-ply tires and/or snowchains.

Synchronizing ESP

If the power supply was interrupted(battery disconnected or empty), theBAS/ESP malfunction indicator lampmay be illuminated with the enginerunning.Turn steering wheel completely to theleft and then to the right. The BAS/ESPmalfunction indicator lamp should goout

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ESP Control Switch

ESP control switch located on centerconsole

To improve the vehicle's traction whendriving with snow chains, or starlingoff in deep snow, sand or gravel, pressthe upper half of the ESP switch. TheESP warning lamp, located in thespeedometer dial, is continuouslyilluminated.

With the ESP system switched off, theengine torque reduction feature iscancelled. Therefore, the enhancedvehicle stability offered by ESP isunavailable.

Adapt your speed and driving to theprevailing road conditions.

A portion of the ESP system remainsactive, even with the switch in the OFFposition.

If one drive wheel loses traction andbegins to spin, the brake is applieduntil the wheel regains sufficienttraction. The traction control engagesat vehicle speeds up to approximately24 mph (40 km/h), and switches off at50 mph (80 km/h).

Note:

Avoid spinning of one drive wheel.Doing so may cause serious damage tothe drive train which is not covered bythe Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

The ESP warning lamp, located in thespeedometer dial, starts to flash at anyvehicle speed as soon as the tires losetraction and the wheels begin to spin.

To return to the enhanced vehiclestability offered by ESP: press lowerhalf of the switch (the ESP warninglamp in the speedometer dial goes out).

Important!

If the ESP warning lamp flashes:

• during take-off, apply as littlethrottle as possible,

• while driving, ease up on theaccelerator.

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Emission Control

Certain systems of the engine serve tokeep the toxic components of theexhaust gases within permissible limitsrequired by law.

These systems, of course, will functionproperly only when maintained strictlyaccording to factory specifications.Any adjustments on the engine should,therefore, be carried out only byqualified Mercedes-Benz authorizeddealer technicians. Engine adjustmentsshould not be altered in any way.Moreover, the specified service jobsmust be carried out regularly accordingto Mercedes-Benz servicingrequirements. For details refer to theService Booklet.

Warning!

Inhalation of exhaust gas ishazardous to your health. Allexhaust gas contains carbonmonoxide, and inhaling it can causeunconsciousness and lead to death.

Do not run the engine in confinedareas (such as a garage) which arenot properly ventilated. If you thinkthat exhaust gas fumes are enteringthe vehicle while driving, have thecause determined and correctedimmediately. If you must driveunder these conditions, drive onlywith at least one window fully open.

On-Board Diagnostic System

Vehicles with Diesel engine

When the "CHECK ENGINE" mal-function indicator lamp comes on whilethe engine is running, this indicates amalfunction in the fuel injection system.Only partial engine output is available.Have the system checked at yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer assoon as possible.

Vehicles with gasoline engine

The Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection(SFI) control module monitors emissioncontrol components that either provideinput signals to or receive output signalsfrom the control module. Malfunctionsresulting from interruptions or failure ofany of these components are indicatedby the "CHECK ENGINE" malfunctionindicator lamp in the instrument clusterand are simultaneously stored in thediagnostic module.

If the "CHECK ENGINE" malfunctionindicator lamp comes on, have thesystem checked at your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer as soon aspossible.

The control module switches off the"CHECK ENGINE" indicator lamp if thecondition, causing the lamp to come on,no longer exists.

An on-board diagnostic connector islocated in the passenger compartmentnear to the parking brake pedal,allowing the accurate identification ofsystem malfunctions through the readoutof diagnostic trouble codes.

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Winter Driving

Have your vehicle winterized at yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealerbefore the onset of winter.

• Change the engine oil if the enginecontains an oil which is notapproved for winter operation. Forviscosity (SAE/CCMC class) andfilling quantity, see Capacities:Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants etc. inIndex.

• Check engine coolant anticorrosion/antifreeze concentration.

• Additive for the windshield washerand headlamp cleaning system: AddMB Concentrate "S" to a premixedwindshield washer solvent/antifreeze which is formulated forbelow freezing temperatures (seeIndex).

• Test battery: Battery capacitydrops with decreasing ambienttemperature. A well chargedbattery helps to ensure that theengine can be started, even at lowambient temperatures.

• Tires: We recommend M+S ratedradial-ply tires on all four wheelsfor the winter season. Observepermissible maximum speed forM+S rated radial-ply tires and thelegal speed limit.

Note:

In winter operation, the maximumeffectiveness of the acceleration slipregulation or of the electronic tractionsystem can only be achieved with M+Sradial-ply tires and/or snow chainsrecommended by Mercedes-Benz.Snow chains maximize performance.

Vehicles with diesel engine –

• For diesel fuels, refer to Index.

• Engine block heater:The engine is equipped with ablock heater. The electrical cablemay be installed free-of-charge atyour authorized Mercedes-Benzdealer by using the coupon in the"Owner's Service and WarrantyPolicy" booklet. The coupon is validfor 12 months from date of vehicledelivery.

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Snow Chains

Use only snow chains that are testedand recommended by Mercedes-Benz.Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerwill be glad to advise you on thissubject.

Chains should only be used on the rearwheels. Follow the manufacturer'smounting instructions.

Snow chains should only be driven onsnow covered roads at speeds not toexceed 30 mph (50 km/h). Removechains as soon as possible whendriving on roads without snow.

For tips on driving on slippery winterroads, refer to Index.

Vehicles with Acceleration SlipRegulation (ASR) or ElectronicStability Program (ESP):

When driving with snow chains, pressthe ASR control switch or the ESPcontrol switch, refer to Index.

Model E 430 with Sport Package

Use only the MB authorized specialsnow chain with tire size 235/45 R 1793 W.

Model E 55 AMG

Use of snow chains is only permissiblewith winter tire size 235/45 R 17 93 H.

Traveling Abroad

Abroad, there is a widely-spreadMercedes-Benz service network atyour disposal. If you plan to travel intoareas which are not listed in the indexof your dealer directory, you shouldrequest pertinent information fromyour authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

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Practical Hints

108

Hood

To open:

To unlock the hood, pull release lever(1) under the driver's side of theinstrument panel. At the same timehandle (2) will extend out of theradiator grill (it may be necessary to liftthe hood up slightly).

Caution!

To avoid damage to the windshieldwiper or hood, open the hood only withwiper in the parked position.

Pull handle (2) completely out ofradiator grill and open hood (do not pullup on handle).

To close:Lower hood and let it drop into lockfrom a height of approx. 1 ft. (30 cm),assisting with hands placed flat onedges of hood (3).

To avoid hood damage, if hood is notfully closed, repeat closing procedure.Do not push down on hood to attemptto fully close it.

Warning!

To help prevent personal injury,stay clear of moving parts when thehood is open and the engine isrunning. Be sure the hood is properlyclosed before driving. When closinghood, use extreme caution not tocatch hands or fingers.

If you see flames or smoke comingfrom the engine compartment, or ifthe coolant temperature gaugeindicates that the engine isoverheated, do not open the hood.Move away from vehicle and do notopen the hood until the engine hascooled. If necessary, call a firedepartment.

Vehicles with gasoline engine:The engine is equipped with atransistorized ignition system.Because of the nigh voltage it isdangerous to touch any components(ignition coils, spark plug sockets,diagnostic socket) of the ignitionsystem

• with the engine running,• while starting the engine,• if ignition is "on" and the engine

is turned manually.

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Checking Coolant Level

To check the coolant level, the vehiclemust be parked on level ground andthe engine stopped.

Check coolant level only whencoolant is cold.

The coolant level should reach the blacktop part of the reservoir.

Adding Coolant

If coolant has to be added, a 50/50mixture of water and MBanticorrosion/antifreeze should beadded.

The drain plugs for the cooling systemare located on the right side of theengine block and at the bottom of theradiator.

Anticorrosion/antifreeze, seeCoolants in Index.

Warning!

In order to avoid possible seriousburns or injury:

• Use extreme caution whenopening the hood if there are anysigns of steam or coolant leakingfrom the cooling system, or if thecoolant temperature gaugeindicates that the coolant isoverheated.

• Do not remove pressure cap oncoolant reservoir if enginetemperature is above 194°F (90°C).Allow engine to cool down beforeremoving cap. The coolantreservoir contains hot fluid and isunder pressure.

• Using a rag, slowly open capapproximately 1/2turn to relieveexcess pressure. If openedimmediately, scalding hot fluidand steam will be blown outunder pressure.

• Do not spill antifreeze on hotengine parts. Antifreeze containsetnylene glycol which may burn ifit comes into contact with hotengine parts.

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E 320 shown

Checking Engine Oil Level

1 Oil dipstick2 Oil filler cap

The engine oil level can be checked byeither the oil dipstick or via themultifunction indicator in the instrumentcluster.

To check the engine oil level, parkvehicle on level ground, with engine atnormal operational temperature.

Check engine oil level approximately 5minutes after stopping the engine,allowing for the oil to return to the oilpan.

Oil Dipstick

Wipe oil dipstick clean prior tochecking the engine oil level. Fullyinsert dipstick in tube, and remove afterthree seconds to obtain accuratereading.

Oil level must be betweenthe lower (min) and upper(max) mark of the dipstick.

Fill quantity between upper and lowerdipstick marking level is approximately2.1 US qt (2.0 l).

Do not overfill the engine. Excessiveoil must be drained or siphoned. Itcould cause damage to engine andcatalytic converter not covered by theMercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

For Low engine oil level warning, seeIndex.

Multifunction Indicator

Turn electronic key in steering lock toposition 2 and wait until the message"DISPLAY OIL LEVEL?" appears inthe multifunction indicator.

Within 1 second press button 0 twice.The following messages are available:

OIL LEVEL OKAY

ADD 1.0 Q OF OIL (Canada: 1.0 L)

ADD 1.5 Q OF OIL (Canada: 1.5 L)

ADD 2.0 Q OF OIL (Canada: 2.0 L)

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OIL LEVEL AT MINIMUMA signal sounds. Add oil to upper(max) mark of the dipstick (also seeLow engine oil level warning inIndex).

OIL LEVEL BELOW MINIMUMA signal sounds. Add oil to upper(max) mark of the dipstick (also seeLow engine oil level warning inIndex).

OIL LEVEL ABOVE MAXA signal sounds.

Do not overfill the engine. Excessiveoil must be drained or siphoned. Itcould cause damage to engine andcatalytic converter not covered by theMercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

to engine and catalytic converter notcovered by the Mercedes-Benz LimitedWarranty.

The symbol flashes in themultifunction indicator, if a proper oillevel check cannot be performed.The engine oil level check can berepeated after a short while.

Perform the engine oil level check withthe dipstick, if it cannot be completedvia the multifunction indicator.

In this case we recommend that youhave the system checked at aMercedes-Benz dealer.

Notes:

If the message is continuouslydisplayed after pressing button 0 twiceand there is no change in themultifunction indicator or the low engineoil level warning comes on, amalfunction has occurered to thesystem. Perform the engine oil levelcheck with the dipstick.

If no oil leaks are noted continue todrive to the nearest Mercedes-Benzdealer to have the system checked.

Bleeding of Diesel Fuel System

If the engine ran out of fuel, the fuelsystem has to be purged of air afterrefilling tank.

Turn the electronic key in steering lockfully to the right and crank engine (forup to 40 seconds maximum). Onlyrelease key after engine fires evenly.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Level

The transmission has a permanent fillof automatic transmission fluid.

Regular automatic transmission fluidlevel checks and changes are notrequired. For this reason the dipstick isomitted.

If you notice fluid leaks or gear shiftingmalfunctions, have your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer check thetransmission fluid level.

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Trunk Lamp

If the trunk is to remain open for a longperiod of time, the trunk lamp can beswitched off by pulling out the plungerin the switch (arrow). This prevents thevehicle battery from being discharged.When the trunk lid is closed, the switchwill reset and turn on the lamp nexttime the lid is opened.

Spare Wheel, Vehicle Tools, StorageCompartment

1 Trunk floor2 Handle3 Luggage bowl4 Vehicle tools

Lift trunk floor and engage handle inupper edge of the trunk.

To remove spare tire: Turn luggagebowl counterclockwise and remove.To store spare tire: Place spare tire inwheel well and secure it with luggagebowl. Turn luggage bowl clockwise toits stop.

Note:

Always lower trunk floor beforeclosing trunk lid.

Stowing Things in the Vehicle

Warning!

To help avoid personal injury duringa collision or sudden maneuver,exercise care when stowing things.Put luggage or cargo in the trunk ifpossible. Do not pile luggage orcargo higher than the seat backs. Donot place anything on the shelf belowthe rear window.

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Vehicle Jack

1 Jack arm2 Jack base

The vehicle jack is stored behind thespare wheel.

See illustration for proper storage of jack.To remove, first remove vehicle tools andspare wheel. Then open clamp andremove vehicle jack.

Before storing the jack in the spare wheelwell, the jack arm must be loweredalmost to the base of the jack.

Warning!

The jack is designed exclusively forjacking up the vehicle at the jacktubes built into either side of thevehicle. To help avoid personalinjury, use the jack only to lift thevehicle during a wheel change. Neverget beneath the vehicle while it issupported by the jack. Keep handsand feet away from the area underthe lifted vehicle. Always firmly setparking brake and block wheelsbefore raising vehicle with jack.

Do not disengage parking brakewhile the vehicle is raised. Be certainthat the jack is always vertical whenin use, especially on hills. Always tryto use the jack on level surface. Besure that the jack arm is fullyinserted in the jack tube. Alwayslower the vehicle onto sufficientcapacity jackstands before workingunder the vehicle.

Wheels

Replace rims or tires with the samedesignation, manufacturer and type asshown on the original part. See yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer forfurther information.

See your authorized Mercedes-Benzdealer for information on tested andrecommended rims and tires forsummer and winter operation. Theycan also offer advice concerning tireservice and purchase.

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Tire Replacement

Front tires should be replaced in sets.Rims and tires must be of the correctsize and type. For dimensions, see"Technical Data".

We recommend that you break in newtires for approx. 60 miles (100 km) atmoderate speed.

It is imperative that the wheelmounting bolts be fastened to atightening torque of 80 ft .lb. (110 Nm)whenever wheels are mounted.

For rim and tire specifications, refer to"Technical Data"

Warning!

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

When replacing rims, use onlygenuine Mercedes-Benz wheel boltsspecified for the particular rimtype. Failure to do so can result inthe bolts loosening and possibly anaccident.

Rotating Wheels

Rotation of wheels does not apply tomodel E 55 AMG with summer tires.

The wheels can be rotated according tothe degree of tire wear while retainingthe same direction of travel.

Rotating, however, should be carriedout at the scheduled service intervals,before the characteristic tire wearpattern (shoulder wear on front wheelsand tread center wear on rear wheels)becomes visible, as otherwise thedriving properties deteriorate.

Important!

Unidirectional tires must always bemounted with arrow on tire sidewallpointing in direction of vehicle forwardmovement.

Notes:

Thoroughly clean the inner side of thewheels any time you rotate the wheelsor wash the vehicle underside.

The use of retread tires is notrecommended. Retread tires mayadversely affect the handlingcharacteristics and safety of the vehicle.

Dented or bent rims can cause tirepressure loss and damage to the tirebeads. For this reason, check rims fordamage at regular intervals. The rimflanges must be checked for wearbefore a tire is mounted. Remove burrs,if any.

Check and ensure proper tire inflationpressure after rotating the wheels. ForTire Inflation Pressure refer to Index.

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Spare Wheel

(except E 430 with Sport Package andE 55 AMG)

Important!

The spare wheel rim is mounted with afull size tire of the same type as on thevehicle, and is fully functional.However, that spare wheel rim isweight optimized and has a limitedservice life of 12 000 miles (20 000km) use before a standard wheel rimmust replace it.

In the case of a flat tire, you maytemporarily use the spare wheel.Do not operate vehicle with more thanone spare wheel mounted.

Unidirectional tires must always bemounted with arrow on tire sidewallpointing in direction of vehicle forwardmovement.

If the arrow on tire side wall does notpoint in direction of vehicle forwardmovement when using the spare wheel,observe the following restrictions:• Drive to the nearest tire repair facility

as soon as possible.

Warning!

The spare wheel rim is for temporaryuse only. Use for over a total of 12 000miles (20 000 km) may cause wheelrim failure leading to an accident andpossible injuries.

Spare Wheel

(E 430 with Sport Package)

The spare wheel rim size is71/2 Jx 16 H 2 with tire size215/55 R 16 93 H.

Important!

In the case of a flat tire or breakdown,you may temporarily use the wheelwhen observing the followingrestrictions:

• Do not exceed vehicle speed of50 mph (80 km/h).

• Drive to the nearest repairfacility to have the flat tirerepaired or replaced asappropirate.

Do not operate vehicle with more thanone spare wheel mounted.

Warning!

The spare wheel rim is for temporaryuse only. Use for over a total of 12000 miles (20 000 km) may causewheel rim failure leading to anaccident and possible injuries.

The dimensions of the spare wheelare different from those of roadwheels. As a result, the vehiclehandling characteristics changewhen driving with a mounted sparewheel.

The spare wheel should only be usedtemporarily, and replaced with aregular road wheel as quickly aspossible.

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Spare Wheel (E 55 AMG)

The spare wheel rim size is8 J x 18 H 2 (same as front wheel).

Important!

In the case of a flat tire or breakdownof a rear axle tire or wheel rim, youmay temporarily use an 8 J x 18 H 2instead of the9 J x 18 H 2 wheel rim on the rearaxle, when observing the followingrestrictions:

• Do not exceed vehicle speed of50 mph (80 km/h).

• Drive to the nearest repairfacility to have the flat tirerepaired or replaced asappropirate.

• Do not operate vehicle withmore than one spare wheelmounted.

Warning!

The dimensions of the spare wheelare different from those of roadwheels on the rear axle. As a result,the vehicle handling characteristicschange when driving with a mountedspare wheel on the rear axle.

If the spare wheel is used on the rearaxle, it must only be usedtemporarily, and replaced with aregular road wheel as quickly aspossible.

For additional information, refer to"Technical Data".

Warning!

The jack is designed exclusively forjacking up the vehicle at the jacktubes built into either side of thevehicle. To help avoid personal injury,use the jack only to lift the vehicleduring a wheel change. Never getbeneath the vehicle while it issupported by the jack. Keep handsand feet away from the area under thelifted vehicle. Always firmly setparking brake and block wheelsbefore raising vehicle with jack.

Do not disengage parking brakewhile the vehicle is raised. Be certainthat the jack is always vertical whenin use, especially on hills. Always tryto use the jack on level surface. Besure that the jack arm is fullyinserted in the jack tube. Alwayslower the vehicle onto sufficientcapacity jackstands before workingunder the vehicle.

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Changing Wheels

Move vehicle to a level area which is asafe distance from the roadway.

1. Set parking brake and turn onhazard warning flasher.

2. Move selector lever to position"P" and turn off engine.Prevent vehicle from rollingaway by blocking wheels withwheel chocks (not supplied withvehicle) or sizable wood blockor stone. When changing awheel on a hill, place chocks onthe downhill side blocking both

wheels of the other axle. On a levelroad, place one chock in front ofand one behind the wheel that isdiagonally opposite to the wheelbeing changed.

4. Using the wrench, loosen but donot yet remove the wheel bolts.

5. Remove the protective coverfrom the jack support tubeopening by inserting the screwdriver (supplied in the tool kit) inthe opening and prying it out.

The tube openings are locateddirectly behind the front wheelhousings and in front of the rearwheel housings.

6. Insert jack arm fully into the tubehole up to the stop. Place jackon firm ground. Position the jackso that it is always vertical(plumb-line) as seen from theside (see arrow), even if thevehicle is parked on an incline.

7. Jack up the vehicle until thewheel is clear of the ground.Never start engine while vehicleis raised.

8. Unscrew upper-most wheel boltand install alignment bolt (1)supplied in the tool kit. Removethe remaining bolts. Keep boltthreads protected from dirt andsand.

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9. Remove wheel. Grip wheel fromthe sides. Keep hands from beneaththe wheels.

10. Clean contact surfaces of wheeland wheel hub. Install spare wheelon wheel hub. Insert wheel boltsand tighten them slightly.

To avoid paint damage, placewheel flat against hub and hold itthere while installing first wheel bolt.

Unscrew the alignment bolt (1) toinstall the last wheel bolt.

11. Lower car. Remove jack andinsert jack tube cover.Before storing the jack, the jackarm must be lowered almost to thebase of the jack.

12. Using the wrench, tighten thefive bolts evenly, following thesequence illustrated, until allbolts are tight.Observe a tightening torque of 80ft.lb. (110 Nm).

13. Ensure proper tire pressure.

Warning!

Always replace wheel bolts that aredamaged or rusted.Never apply oil or grease to wheelbolts.

Damaged wheel hub threads shouldbe repaired immediately.Incorrect mounting bolts orimproperly tightened mounting boltscan cause the wheel to come off.This could cause an accident. Besure to use the correct mountingbolts.

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Tire Inflation Pressure

A table (see fuel filler flap) lists the tireinflation pressures specified forMercedes-Benz recommended tires aswell as for the varying operatingconditions.

Important!

Tire pressure changes by approx. 1.5psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of airtemperature change. Keep this in mindwhen checking tire pressure inside agarage - especially in the winter.

Example:

If garage temperature = approx. +68°F(+20°C) and ambient temperature =approx. +32°F (0°C) then the adjustedair pressure = specified air pressure +3psi (+0.2 bar).

Tire pressures listed for light loads areminimum values offering high drivingcomfort. Increased inflation pressuresfor heavy loads produce favorablehandling characteristics with lighterloads and are perfectly permissible.

The ride of the vehicle, however, willbecome somewhat harder.

Tire temperature and pressureincrease with the vehicle speed. Tirepressure should therefore only becorrected on cold tires. Correct tirepressure in warm tires only if pressurehas dropped below the pressure listedin the table and the respectiveoperating conditions are taken intoconsideration.

An underinflated tire due to a slowleak (e.g. due to a nail in the tire) maycause damage such as treadseparation, bulging etc.. Regular tirepressure checks (including the sparetire) at intervals of no more than 14days are therefore essential.

If a tire constantly loses air, it shouldbe inspected for damage.

Warning!

Do not overinflate tires.Overinflating tires can result insudden deflation (blowout) becausethey are more likely to becomepunctured or damaged by roaddebris, potholes etc.. Follow recom-mended inflation pressures.

Do not overload the tires byexceeding the specified vehiclecapacity weight (as indicated by thelabel on the driver's door latch post).Overloading the tires can overheatthem, possibly causing a blowout.

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Exterior Lamps

Headlamp Adjustment

Correct headlamp adjustment isextremely important. Check andreadjust headlamps at regular intervalsand when a bulb has been replaced.

Headlamp Assembly

3 Headlamp horizontal adjustmentscrew

4 Headlamp vertical adjustmentscrew

5 Clamps for headlamp cover6 Bulb socket for turn signal lamp

5 Electrical connector for lowbeam headlamp bulb

6 Electrical connector for highbeam headlamp bulbXenon lamp (optional) ignitionmodule for low beam

7 Bulb socket for parking andstanding lamp

8 Level for headlamp verticaladjustment

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Replacing Bulb:

When replacing bulbs, install only 12volt bulbs with the specified wattrating.

When replacing halogen bulbs do nottouch glass portion of bulb with barehands. Use plain paper or a clean cloth.

Warning!

Halogen lamps contain pressurizedgas. A bulb can explode if you:

• touch or move it when hot,• drop the bulb,• scratch the bulb.

Wear eye and hand protection.

Bulbs for Low or High BeamH7 (55 W)

Open hood.

Move retaining clamps (3) aside andremove cover. Pull off electricalconnector (5) or (6). Unhook clampingring and pull out bulb together withclamping ring. Remove bulb.

Insert new bulb (seating properly incutouts of bulb socket), mount clampingring. Reinstall and push electricalconnector on securely. Reinstall coverand fasten with retaining clamps (3).

Xenon (optional)Bulb for Low Beam

Warning!

Because of high voltage in Xenonlamps, it is dangerous to replace thebulb or repair the lamp and itscomponents. We recommend thatyou have such work done by aqualified technician.

Turn Signal Lamp1156 NA (26.9/5 W/32/4 cp bulb)

Open hood.

Twist bulb socket (4) counterclockwiseand pull out. Push bulb into socket,turn counterclockwise and remove.

Insert new bulb in socket, push in andtwist clockwise. Reinstall bulb socket.Reinstall lamp assembly until properlyseated.

Parking and Standing LampH 6W (6 W bulb)

Open hood.

Rotate cover (3) counterclockwise andremove.

Twist bulb socket (7) counterclockwiseand pull out. Push bulb into socket,turn counterclockwise and remove.

Insert new bulb in socket, push in andtwist clockwise. Reinstall bulb socket.Reinstall lamp assembly until properlyseated.

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Adjusting Headlamp

Correct headlamp adjustment isextremely important. To check andreadjust a headlamp, follow steps 1through 7. Please note:

• Low beam adjustmentssimultaneously aim the high beam.

• Vehicle should have a normal trunkload.

• Vertical aim adjustments changehorizontal aim.

1. Park vehicle on level surface approx.6 inches (152 mm) from a vertical testscreen or wall. The centerline of thevehicle must be at a 90° angle to thetest screen.

2. Using a "T" square and a carpenter'slevel, align and mark a verticalcenterline (8) on the test screen usingthe outer reference point (low beam)as found on each headlamp lens.As a check, the distance betweencenterlines should be 491/4 inches(1250 mm).

3. Open hood.4. Vertical headlamp aim

(low beams on):

Turn adjusting screw (2) (coun-terclockwise to adjust headlampdownward, clockwise upward) untilbubble in the level (8) is centeredon the "O" mark.Graduations: 0.18° pitch.

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5. Horizontal headlamp aim(low beams on):Turn adjusting screw (1)(counterclockwise to adjust tothe left, clockwise to the right)until the headlamps (low beam)illuminate the test screen asshown. The vertex of the angleformed in each beam imageshould align with the verticalcenterline (11) of each lamp.

The left and right headlampsmust be adjusted individually

6. The "O" on the indicator wheel(9) should align with projection(10). If it does not, with a smallscrewdriver, pry indicator wheelup and rotate so that the "O"aligns with projection (1). Pushdown indicator wheel until itsnaps in place.

Graduations: 0.38° pitch.

Note:

If it is not possible to obtain a properheadlamp adjustment, have thesystem checked at your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

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Adjusting Headlamp Aim(Xenon)

Correct headlamp adjustment isextremely important. To check andreadjust a headlamp, follow steps 1through 7. Please note:

• Low beam adjustmentssimultaneously aim the highbeam.

• Vehicle should have a normalload.

1. Park vehicle on level surfaceapproximately 25 ft. (7.6 m)from a vertical test screen orwall. The centerline of thevehicle must be at a 90° angleto the test screen.

2. (Low beams on):Using a carpenter's level, align andmark a vertical centerline (11) on thetest screen using the vertex of theangle formed in each beam image.As a check, the distance betweencenter-lines should be 541/2 inches(1384 mm). If the distance does

not check, have the system verifiedat an authorized Mercedes-Benzdealer.

3. (Low beams off):Measure the vertical height from thefloor to reference point (13) onhigh beam lens. Subtract approx. 2inches (53 mm) frommeasurement, and mark ahorizontal centerline (12) on the testscreen at the resulting height fromthe floor. It must be at a 90° angleto the vertical centerline.

4. Open hood

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5. Vertical headlamp aim(Low beams on):Turn adjusting screw (2) (coun-terclockwise to adjust headlampdownward, clockwise upward) untilthe headlamps illuminate the testscreen as shown.

Graduations: 0.18° pitch.

6. Horizontal headlamp aim(Low beams on):Turn adjusting screw (1)(counterclockwise to adjust to theleft, clockwise to the right) until theheadlamps (low beam) illuminatethe test screen as shown. The vertexof the angle formed in each beamimage should align with the verticalcenterline (11) of each lamp.

The left and right headlamps mustbe adjusted individually

7. The "O" on the indicator wheel (9)should align with projection (10). If itdoes not, with a small screwdriver,pry indicator wheel up and rotate sothat the "O" aligns with projection(10). Push down indicator wheeluntil it snaps in place.Graduations: 0.38° pitch.

Note:

If it is not possible to obtain a properheadlamp adjustment, have the systemchecked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

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Taillamp Assemblies

Open trunk lid.

1 Turn signal lamp(21 W/32 cp bulb)

2 Stop, tail and parking lamp(21/4 W/35/1.2 cp bulb)

3 Tail, parking and side marker lamp(5 W/4 cp bulb)

Swing cover aside. Twist bulb socketcounterclockwise and pull out. Pushbulb into socket, turn counterclockwiseand remove.Insert new bulb in socket, push in andtwist clockweise. Reinstall bulb socket,and close cover

4 Driver's side:Rear fog lamp(21 W/32 cp bulb)

5 Backup lamp(21 W/32 cp bulb)

Twist bulb socket counterclockwiseand pull out. Push bulb into socket,turn counterclockwise and remove.

Insert new bulb in socket, push in andtwist clockwise. Reinstall bulb socket.

Side Marker Lamp, Front(5 W/4 cp bulb)

From inside wheel house (arrow)reach behind side marker lamp andpress tab. Remove lamp frombumper and take out bulb.

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Battery

Warning!

Failure to follow these instructionscan result in severe injury or death.

Never lean over batteries whileconnecting, you might get injured.

Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid.Do not allow this fluid to come incontact with eyes, skin or clothing.In case it does, immediately flushaffected area with water and seekmedical help if necessary.

A battery will also produce hydrogengas, which is flammable andexplosive. Keep flames or sparksaway from battery, avoid improperconnection of jumper cables,smoking etc..

Important!

Battery replacement information:

The maintenance-free battery is locatedunder the rear seat cushion. To minimizethe chance for acid leakage which couldcause severe burns during a crash orrollover, a special acid leakage resistantbattery was factory installed. Areplacement battery for the car must notleak acid when upside down for at least15 minutes. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer can provide such a specialbattery.

The service life of the battery isdependent on its condition of charge. Thebattery should always be kept sufficientlycharged, in order to last an optimumlength of time.

Therefore, we strongly recommendthat you have the battery chargechecked frequently, and corrected ifnecessary, especially if you use thevehicle less than approximately 200miles (300 km) per month, mostly forshort distance trips, or if it is notused for long periods of time.

Only charge a battery with a batterycharger after the battery has beendisconnected from the vehicle electricalcircuit.

Always disconnect the battery negativelead first and connect last.

When removing and connecting thebattery, always make sure that allelectrical consumers are off and theelectronic key is in steering lockposition 0. The battery, its filler caps, thevent tube and the opposite plug mustalways be securely installed when thecar is in operation. During removal andinstallation always protect thedisconnected battery positive (+)terminal with the cover attached to thebattery.

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While the engine is running the batteryterminal clamps must not be loosenedor detached, otherwise the generatorand other electronic components wouldbe damaged.

Notes:

After reconnecting the battery alsoresynchronize the front seats, front seathead restraints, the Express feature ofthe power windows, and the ElectronicStability Program (ESP) (see Powerseats, front, Head restraints, Powerwindows, and Electronic stabilityprogram in Index).

Battery Recycling

Batteries contain materials that canharm the environment with improperdisposal.

Large 12 Volt storage batteries containlead.

Recycling of batteries is thepreferred method of disposal.

Many states require sellers of batteriesto accept old batteries for recycling.

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Fuses

Before replacing a blown fuse,determine the cause of the short circuit.

Spare fuses are supplied inside themain fuse box. Observe amperage andcolor of fuse.

A special fuse puller is supplied withthe vehicle tools.

Always use a new fuse for replacement.Never attempt to repair or bridge ablown fuse.

1 Main fuse box in enginecompartment

To gain access to the main fusebox (1), release clamp (arrow),lift the fuse box cover up andremove it.

To close the main fuse box,engage right end of cover andsecure with clamp.

2 Auxiliary fuse box below rearseat bench

To gain access, remove rear seatbench. See Index.

3 Auxiliary fuse box to left ofExterior lamp switch

To gain access, open door, pry offcover and remove.

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Jump Starting

Warning!

Failure to follow these directions willcause damage to the electroniccomponents, and can lead to a batteryexplosion and severe injury or death.

Never lean over batteries whileconnecting or jump starting, youmight get injured.

Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid.Do not allow this fluid to come incontact with eyes, skin or clothing. Incase it does, immediately flushaffected area with water, and seekmedical help if necessary.

A battery will also produce hydrogengas, which is flammable and veryexplosive. Keep flames or sparks awayfrom battery, avoid improperconnection of jumper cables, smokingetc..

Read all instructions beforeproceeding.

If the battery is discharged, the engineshould be started with jumper cablesand the (12 V) battery of anothervehicle. Jump start the car by using thebattery terminals located under hood.Proceed as follows:1. Position the vehicle with the

charged battery so that thejumper cables will reach, butnever let the vehicles touch.Make sure the jumper cables donot have loose or missinginsulation.

2. On both vehicles:

• Turn off engine and all lightsand accessories, excepthazard warning flashers orwork lights.

• Apply parking brake and shiftselector lever to position "P".

Important!

3. Lift cover (1) and clamp one endof the first jumper cable to thepositive (+) under hood terminalof the discharged battery andthe other end to the positive (+)terminal of the charged battery.Make sure the cable clamps do nottouch any other metal parts.

3. Clamp one end of the second jumpercable to the grounded negative (-)terminal of the charged battery andthe final connection to the negative(-) under hood terminal (2) of thedisabled vehicle.

Important!5. Start engine of the vehicle with the

charged battery and run at high idle.Make sure the cables are not on ornear pulleys, fans, or other parts thatmove when the engine is started.Allow the discharged battery tocharge for a few minutes. Startengine of

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the disabled vehicle in the usualmanner.

6. After the engine has started,remove jumper cables by exactlyreversing the above installationsequence, starting with the lastconnection made first. When removingeach clamp, make sure that it does nottouch any other metal while the otherend is still attached.7.Important!

A discharged battery can freeze atapprox. +14°F (-10°C). In that case, itmust be thawed out before jumpercables are used. A frozen battery canexplode and cause personal injury.Jumper cable specifications:

• Minimum cable cross-section of25 mm2 or approx. 2 AWG

• Maximum length of 11.5 ft.(3.5 m).

Note:

If engine does not run after severalunsuccessful starting attempts, have itchecked at the nearest authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

Excessive unburned fuel may damagethe catalytic converter.

Towing the Vehicle

Warning!

Prior to towing the vehicle with allwheels on the ground, make certainthat the electronic key is in steeringlock position 2.

If the electronic key is left in thesteering lock position 0 for anextended period of time, it can nolonger be turned in the lock. In thiscase, the steering is locked. Tounlock, remove electronic key fromsteering lock and reinsert.

Important!

When towing the vehicle, please, notethe following:

With the automatic central lockingactivated and the electronic key insteering lock position 2, the vehicledoors lock if the left front wheel aswell as the right rear wheel are turningat vehicle speeds of approx. 9 mph (15km/h) or more.

To prevent the vehicle door locks fromlocking, deactivate the automaticcentral locking

All models (except E 55 AMG)The rear towing eye is located at theright, below the bumper. The fronttowing eye is located on the passengerside behind a flap in the bumper panel.Flap removal (except E 55 AMG):Insert finger in recess of flap and pullflap out.

Flap installation:

Engage flap at bottom and press intop securely.

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E 55 AMG

Flap removal (E 55 AMG):Reach into recess and pull out.

Flap installation: Press in until it snapsinto place.

We recommend that the vehicle betransported using flat bed equipment.This method is preferable to other typesof towing.

The vehicle may be towed with allwheels on the ground and the selectorlever in position "N" for distances up to30 miles (50 km) and at a speed not toexceed 30 mph (50 km/h). Theelectronic key must be in steering lockposition 2.

To positively avoid a possibility ofdamage to the transmission, however,we recommend to disconnect the driveshaft at the rear axle drive flange onany towing beyond a short tow to anearby garage.

Do not tow with sling-type equipment.Towing with sling-type equipment overbumpy roads will damage radiator andsupports.

Use wheel lift, dolly, or flat bedequipment, with electronic key insteering lock turned to position 0.

Warning!

With the engine not running, there isno power assistance for the brakingand steering systems. In this case, itis important to keep in mind that aconsiderably higher degree of effortis necessary to brake and steer thevehicle.

Note:

To signal turns while being towed withhazard warning flasher in use, turnelectronic key in steering lock toposition 2 and activate combinationswitch for left or right turn signal inusual manner - only the selected turnsignal will operate.

Upon canceling the turn signal, thehazard warning flasher will operateagain.

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Caution!Vehicles with Acceleration SlipRegulation (ASR)

If the vehicle is towed with the front axleraised, the engine must be shut off(electronic key in steering lock position0 or 1). Otherwise, the ASR willimmediately be engaged and will applythe rear wheel brakes.

Caution!Vehicles with Electronic TractionSystem (ESP)

If the vehicle is towed with the front axleraised, the engine must be shut off(electronic key in steering lock position0 or 1). Otherwise, the ESP willimmediately be engaged and will applythe rear wheel brakes.

Caution!Vehicles with Electronic TractionSystem (ETS)

If the vehicle is towed with one axleraised, the engine must be shut off(electronic key in steering lock position0 or 1). Otherwise, the ETS willimmediately be engaged and will applythe brakes.

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Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle

Warning!

Many cleaning products can behazardous. Some are poisonous,others are flammable. Always followthe instructions on the particularcontainer. Always open your car'sdoors or windows when cleaning theinside.

Never use fluids or solvents that arenot designed for cleaning your car.

In operation, your vehicle is subjectedto varying external influences which, ifgone unchecked, can attack the paint-work as well as the underbody andcause lasting damage.

Such damage is caused not only byextreme and varying climaticconditions, but also by air pollution,road salt, tar, gravel and stonechipping. Grease and oil, fuel, coolant,brake fluid, bird droppings, insects, treeresins etc. should be removedimmediately to avoid paint damage.

Frequent washing reduces and/oreliminates the aggressiveness andpotency of the above adverse influences.

More frequent washings are necessaryto deal with unfavorable conditions; forexample, near the ocean, in industrialareas (smoke, exhaust emissions), orduring winter operation.

You should check your vehicle fromtime to time for stone chipping or otherdamage. Any damage should berepaired as soon as possible to preventthe start of corrosion.

In doing so, do not neglect theunderside of the vehicle. A prerequisitefor a thorough check is a washing ofthe underbody followed by a thoroughinspection. Damaged areas need to bere-undercoated.

Your vehicle has been treated at thefactory with a wax-base rust-proofingin the body cavities which will last forthe lifetime of the vehicle. Post-production treatment is neithernecessary nor recommended by

Mercedes-Benz because of thepossibility of incompatibility betweenmaterials used in the productionprocess and others applied later.

We have selected car-care products andcompiled recommendations which arespecially matched to our vehicles andwhich always reflect the latesttechnology. You can obtain Mercedes-Benz approved car-care products atyour authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosionor damage due to negligent or incorrectcare cannot always be removed orrepaired with the car-care productsrecommended here. In such cases it isbest to seek aid at your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

The following topics deal with thecleaning and care of your vehicleand give important "how-to"information as well as references toMercedes-Benz approved car-careproducts.

Additional information can be found inthe booklet titled "Car Care".

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Engine Cleaning

Prior to cleaning the enginecompartment make sure to protectelectrical components and connectorsfrom the intrusion of water and cleaningagents.

Corrosion protection, such as MBAnticorrosion Wax should be applied tothe engine compartment after everyengine cleaning. Before applying, allcontrol linkage bushings and jointsshould be lubricated. The poly-V-beltand all pulleys should be protected fromany wax.

Car Washing

Do not use hot water or wash your carin direct sunlight. Use only a mild carwash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo.

Thoroughly spray the car with adiffused jet of water. Direct only a veryweak spray towards the.

ventilation intake. Use plenty of waterand rinse the sponge and chamoisfrequently.

Rinse with clear water and thoroughlywipe dry with a chamois. Do not allowcleaning agents to dry on the finish.

If the vehicle has been run through anautomatic car wash - in particular oneof the older installations -rewipe therecessed sections in the taillamps(designed to prevent soiling) ifnecessary. No solvents (fuels, thinnersetc.) must be used.

In the winter, thoroughly remove alltraces of road salt as soon as possible.

When washing the underbody, do notforget to clean the inner sides of thewheels.

Tar Stains

Quickly remove tar stains before theydry and become more difficult toremove. A tar remover is recommended.

Window Cleaning

Use a window cleaning solution on allglass surfaces. An automotive glasscleaner is recommended.

Headlamps, Taillamps,Turn Signal Lenses

Use a mild car wash detergent, such asMercedes-Benz approved CarShampoo, with plenty of water.

To prevent scratches, never applystrong force or use a hard cloth whencleaning the lenses. Do not attempt towipe dirty lenses with a dry cloth orsponge.

Plastic and Rubber Parts

Do not use oil or wax on these parts.

Wiper Blade

Clean the wiper blade rubber with aclean cloth and detergent solution.Replace blade twice a year; oncebefore and once after winter.

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Seat Belts

The webbing must not be treated withchemical cleaning agents. Use onlyclear, lukewarm water and soap. Do notdry the webbing at temperatures above176°F (80°C) or in direct sunlight.

Warning!

Do not bleach or dye seat belts as thismay severely weaken them. In acrash they may not be able toprovide adequate protection.

Hard Plastic Trim Items

Pour Mercedes-Benz approved InteriorCare onto soft lint-free cloth and applywith light pressure.

Headliner andShelf below Rear Window

Clean with soft bristle brush, or use adry-shampoo cleaner in case ofexcessive dirt.

Instrument Cluster

Use a gentle dishwashing detergent ormild detergent for delicate fabrics as awashing solution. Wipe with a clothmoistened in lukewarm solution. Donot use scouring agents.

Steering Wheel and GearSelector Lever

Wipe with a damp cloth and drythoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care.

Upholstery

Using aftermarket seat covers orwearing clothing that have thetendency to give off coloring (e.g.when wet etc.) may cause theupholstery to become permanentlydiscolored. By lining the seats with aproper intermediate cover, contact-discoloration will be prevented.

Leather Upholstery Wipe leatherupholstery with a damp cloth and drythoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care. Exerciseparticular care when cleaningperforated leather as its undersideshould not become wet.

MB Tex Upholstery Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto softlint-free cloth and apply with lightpressure.

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Paintwork, Painted BodyComponents

Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Careshould be applied when water drops onthe paint surface do not "bead up";normally in 3 to 5 months, dependingon climate and washing detergent used.

Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Cleanershould be applied if paint surfaceshows signs of dirt embedding (i.e. lossof gloss).

Do not apply any of these products orwax if your car is parked in the sun orif the hood is still hot.

Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up Stickfor quick and provisional repairs ofminor paint damage (i.e. chips fromstones, car doors etc.).

Light Alloy Wheels

Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Careshould be used for regular cleaning ofthe light alloy wheels.

If possible, clean wheels once a weekwith Mercedes-Benz approved WheelCare, using a soft bristle brush and astrong spray of water.

Follow instructions on container.

Note:

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

Ornamental Moldings

For regular cleaning and care of verydirty chrome-plated parts, use a chromecleaner.

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Electronic Main KeyRemote Control

1 Transmit buttons2 Lamp for battery check and function

control

Checking Batteries

If one of the transmit buttons ispressed, the function control lamplights up briefly- indicating that thebatteries are in order.

Change batteries if the function controllamp does not light up briefly

Changing Batteries

Move lock (1) in direction of rightarrow and slide out mechanical key (2,left arrow).

Insert mechanical key (2) in sideopening (3) to open latch. Press briefly(do not use mechanical key as lever) torelease battery compartment.

Remove mechanical key.

Lift battery compartment (4) slightly indirection of arrow (5) and remove indirection of arrow (6).

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Change batteries (7), inserting newones under contact spring (8) with plus(+) side facing up.

Return battery compartment intohousing until locked in place

Important!

Batteries contain materials that canharm the environment if disposed ofimproperly. Recycling of batteries isthe preferred method of disposal. Fordisposal, please follow manufacturer'srecommendation on battery package.

Replacement battery:Lithium, type CR 2025 or equivalent.

Synchronizing Remote Control

The remote control may have to beresynchronized, if the vehicle cannotbe locked or unlocked.

To synchronize insert electronic key insteering lock.

The remote control should once againbe operational.

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Front Head Restraints

Warning!

For your protection, drive only withproperly positioned head restraints.

Adjust head restraint to support theback of the head approximately atear level.

Do not drive the vehicle without theseat head restraints. Head restraintsare intended to help reduce injuriesduring an accident.

Front seat head restraint, removal

Removal:

Push button (1) up to bring the poweradjustable head restraint to its highestposition.

Pull out head restraint completely withboth hands.

Installation:

Push button (1) of the power adjustablehead restraint up for approximately 5seconds.

Insert the head restraint and push itdown to the stop.

Adjust head restraint to the desiredposition.

For positioning of head restraints referto sections Power Seats, and HeadRestraints, Rear in Index.

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Rear Seat Cushion

Removal: Pull locking tabs up (on leftand right side of seat) and lift seat at thefront.Installation: Guide seat belt bucklesthrough openings in seat cushion. Sliderear edge of cushion under the backrestas far as it will go, and push front ofcushion down until it locks in place.

Caution!Watch out for sharp edges whenremoving or installing the rear seatcushion, and make sure that it issecurely locked in place again, to preventpersonal injury.

Emergency Operation ofSliding/Pop-Up Roof

The sliding/pop-up roof can be openedor closed manually should an electricalmalfunction occur.

The sliding/pop-up roof drive is locatedbehind the lens of the left interior lampbetween the sun visors.

1. Pry off lens (1) by using a screwdriver.

2. Obtain crank (2) (supplied withvehicle) and insert it throughhole.

To slide the roof closed or to raise theroof at the rear: turn crank clockwise.

To slide the roof open or to lower theroof at the rear: turn crankcounterclockwise.

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Replacing Wiper Blade Insert

For safety reasons, remove electronickey from steering lock before replacingthe wiper blade, otherwise the motorcan suddenly turn on and cause injury.

Notes:

Do not open engine hood with wiperarm folded forward.

Do not allow the wiper arm to contactthe windshield glass without a wiperblade inserted. The glass may bescratched or broken.

Make certain that the wiper blade isproperly installed. An improperlyinstalled wiper blade may causewindshield damage.

Removal:

Fold wiper arm forward. Press safetytab down (1), push wiper bladedownward (2) and remove.

Place wiper blade on firm support.Slide (direction of arrow) the wiperblade insert out of the retainer claws.

Installation:

Slide (direction of arrow) wiper bladeinsert into retainer claws until tabs areengaged.

Insert wiper blade between tabs (3) onthe wiper arm, and slide into end ofwiper arm. Press safety tab upwarduntil it locks in place.

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Manual Release of Fuel Filler Flap

The manual release knob is locatedbehind the right side trunk panel.

In case the central locking system doesnot release the fuel filler flap, pull themanual release knob whilesimultaneously opening the fuel fillerflap.

Roof Rack

Use only those roof racks approved byMercedes-Benz to avoid damage to thevehicle. Follow manufacturer'sinstallation instructions.

Mount supports only between markingson border of roof which are visible whendoors are opened.

Spare Parts Service

All authorized Mercedes-Benz dealersmaintain a stock of original spare partsrequired for maintenance and repairwork. In addition, strategically locatedparts distribution centers provide quickand reliable parts service.

More than 300,000 different spareparts, for other Mercedes-Benz models,are available.

Mercedes-Benz original spare parts aresubjected to the most stringent qualityinspections. Each part has beenspecifically developed, manufacturedor selected for and adapted toMercedes-Benz vehicles.

Therefore, Mercedes-Benz originalspare parts should be installed.

Important!

The use of non-genuine parts andaccessories not authorized byMercedes-Benz could damage thevehicle or compromise its durability orsafety.

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E 300 TURBODIESEL

Layout of Poly-V-belt Drive

1 Automatic belt tensioner2 Crankshaft3 Air conditioning compressor

E 320, E 430, E 55 AMG

4 Coolant pump, fan5 Generator (alternator)6 Idler pulley7 Power steering pump

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Technical Data

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Identification Labels

When ordering spare parts, pleasespecify vehicle identification and enginenumbers.

1 Certification Label2 Vehicle Identification No. (VIN)3 VIN, visible (lower edge of

windshield)4 Engine No.

E 320, E 430: rear right,E 300 TURBODIESEL: front left

5 Body No. and Paintwork No.6 Emission Control Label7 Information Label

California versionVacuum line routing foremission control system

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Warranty Coverage

Your vehicle is covered under theterms of the "warranties" printed in theOwner's Service and WarrantyInformation Booklet and yourauthorized Mercedes-Benz dealer willexchange or repair any defective partsin accordance with the terms of thefollowing warranties:

1. New vehicle limited warranty2. Emission systems warranty3. Emission performance warranty4. California and Massachusetts

emission control systemswarranty.

Loss of Owner's Service andWarranty Information Booklet

Should you lose your Owner's Serviceand Warranty Information Booklet,have your authorized Mercedes-Benzdealer arrange for a replacement. Itwill be mailed to you.

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Technical Data E 300 TURBODIESEL Rims – TiresModel E 300 DIESEL (210 025)1 Rims

(light alloy rims) 7 1/² J x 16 H 2Wheel offset 41 mm (1.6 in)

Engine 606 All season tires:Mode of operation Diesel 4-stroke Radial-ply tires 215/55 R 16 93 H

Winter tires:No. of cylinders 6 Radial-ply tires 215/55 R 16 93 H M+SBore 87.00 mm (3.43 in)Stroke 84.00 mm (3.31 in) Spare WheelTotal piston displacement 2996 m³ (182.8 cu.in) RimsCompression ratio 22:1 (light alloy rims) 7 1/² J x 16 H 2Output acc.to SAE J 1349 174 kW/4400rpm Wheel offset 41 mm (1.6 in)

(130 hp/4400 rpm) All season tires:Maximum torque acc. to SAE J 1349 330 Nm/2600 rpm Radial-ply tires 215/55 R 16 93 H

(243 ft-lb/2600 rpm)Maximum engine speed 5200 rpm Electrical SystemFiring order 1-5-3-6-2-4Poly – V belts length 2140 mm Generator (alternator) 14 V/120 A

Starter motor 12 V/2.2 kW1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See Battery 12 V/100 Ah

an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the correspondingdata of all special bodies and special equipment.

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Technical Data E 300 TURBODIESELMain Dimensions

Weights See certification tagRoof load max. 100 kg (220 lb) Overall vehicle length 4810 mm (189.4 in)Trunk load max. 100 kg ( 220 lb) Overall vehicle width 1799 mm ( 70.8 in)

Overall height: 1439 mm ( 56.7 in)Wheel base 2833 mm (111.5 in)Track, front 1529 mm ( 60.2 in)Track, rear 1521 mm ( 59.9 in)

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Technical Data E 320 Rims – TiresModel E 320 (210 065)1 Rims

E 320 with AWD (210 082)1 (light alloy rims) 7 1/² J x 16 H 2Wheel offset 41 mm (1.6 in)

Engine 112 All season tires:Mode of operation 4-stroke engine, Radial-ply tires 215/55 R 16 93 H

gasoline injection Winter tires:No. of cylinders 6 Radial-ply tires 215/55 R 16 93 H M+SBore 89.90 mm (3.54 in)Stroke 84.00 mm (3.30 in) Spare WheelTotal piston displacement 3199 m³ (195.2 cu.in) RimsCompression ratio 10:1 (light alloy rims) 7 1/² J x 16 H 2Output acc.to SAE J 1349 162 kW/5500rpm Wheel offset 41 mm (1.6 in)

(217 hp/5500 rpm) All season tires:Maximum torque acc. to SAE J 1349 315 Nm/3850 rpm Radial-ply tires 215/55 R 16 93 H

(232 ft-lb/3850 rpm)Maximum engine speed 6400 rpm Electrical SystemFiring order 1-4-3-6-2-5Poly – V belts length 2390 mm Generator (alternator) 14 V/90 A

Starter motor 12 V/1.7 kW1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See Battery 12 V/100 Ah

an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the corresponding Spark plugs Bosch F 8 DPERdata of all special bodies and special equipment. Electrode gap 0.8 mm (0.032 in)

Tightening torque 15-22 ft.lb. (20-30 Nm)

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Technical Data E 320Main Dimensions

Weights See certification tagRoof load max. 100 kg (220 lb) Overall vehicle length 4810 mm (189.4 in)Trunk load max. 100 kg ( 220 lb) Overall vehicle width 1799 mm ( 70.8 in)

Overall height: 1439 mm ( 56.7 in)Wheel base 2833 mm (111.5 in)Track, front 1529 mm ( 60.2 in)Track, rear 1521 mm ( 59.9 in)

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Technical Data E 430 Rims – Tires (expect Sport Package)Model E 420 (210 070)1 Rims

(light alloy rims) 7 1/² J x 16 H 2Wheel offset 41 mm (1.6 in)

Engine 113 All season tires:Mode of operation 4-stroke engine, Radial-ply tires 215/55 R 16 99 H

gasoline injection Winter tires:No. of cylinders 8 Radial-ply tires 215/55 R 16 93 H M+SBore 89.90 mm (3.54 in)Stroke 84.00 mm (3.31 in) Rims and Summer Tires (Sport Package)Total piston displacement 4265 m³ (260.6 cu.in) RimsCompression ratio 10:1 AMG light alloy rims 8 J x 17 H 2Output acc.to SAE J 1349 205 kW/5700rpm Wheel offset 37 mm (1.46 in)

(275 hp/5700 rpm) Summer tires:Maximum torque acc. to SAE J 1349 400 Nm/3200 rpm Radial-ply tires 235/45 R ZR 17 ²

(295 ft-lb/3200 rpm)Maximum engine speed 6000 rpm Spare WheelFiring order 1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8 RimsPoly – V belts length 2390 mm (light alloy rims) 7 1/² J x 16 H 2

Wheel offset 41 mm (1.6 in)1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See Summer tires:

an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the corresponding Radial-ply tires 215/55 R 16 93 Hdata of all special bodies and special equipment.

2 Must not be used with snow chains.

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Technical Data E 430

Electrical System Weights See certification tagRoof load max. 100 kg (220 lb)

Generator (alternator) 14 V/150A Trunk load max. 100 kg ( 220 lb)Starter motor 12 V/1.7 kWBattery 12 V/100 Ah Main DimensionsSpark plugs Bosch F 8 DPER

Beru 14 FGH 8 DPUR X 2 Overall vehicle length 4810 mm (189.4 in)Electrode gap 1.0 mm (0.039 in) Overall vehicle width 1799 mm ( 70.8 in)Tightening torque 15-22 ft.lb. (20-30 Nm) Overall height: 1439 mm ( 56.7 in)

Wheel base 2833 mm (111.5 in)Track, front 1529 mm ( 60.2 in)Track, rear 1521 mm ( 59.9 in)

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Technical Data E 55 AMG Rims and Summer TiresModel E 420 (210 074)1 Rims

Front axleAMG light alloy rims 8 J x 18H 2

Engine 113 Wheel offset 31 mm (1.2 in)Mode of operation 4-stroke engine, Rear axle

gasoline injection AMG light alloy rims 9 J x 18H 2No. of cylinders 8 Wheel offset 35 mm (1.4 in)Bore 97.00 mm (3.82 in) Radial-ply tiresStroke 92.00 mm (3.60 in) Front axle 245/40 ZR 16²Total piston displacement 4265 m³ (260.6 cu.in) Rear axle 275/35 ZR 16²Compression ratio 10.5:1Output acc.to SAE J 1349 260 kW/5500rpm Rims and Winter Tires

(349 hp/5500 rpm) RimsMaximum torque acc. to SAE J 1349 400 Nm/3200 rpm AMG light alloy rims 7 1/² J x 17 H 2

(295 ft-lb/3200 rpm) Wheel offset 35 mm (1.4 in)Maximum engine speed 6000 rpm Radial-ply tires 235/45 R ZR 17 93 H M+SFiring order 1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8Poly – V belts length 2390 mm Spare Wheel

Rims1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See (light alloy rims) 8 J x 18H 2

an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the corresponding Wheel offset 31 mm (1.2 in)data of all special bodies and special equipment. All season tires:

2 Must not be used with snow chains. Radial-ply tires 245/40 ZR 18²

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Technical Data E 55 AMG

Electrical System Weights See certification tagRoof load max. 100 kg (220 lb)

Generator (alternator) 14 V/150A Trunk load max. 100 kg ( 220 lb)Starter motor 12 V/1.7 kWBattery 12 V/100 Ah Main DimensionsSpark plugs Bosch F 8 DPER

Overall vehicle length 4795 mm (188.7 in)Electrode gap 1.0 mm (0.039 in) Overall vehicle width 1799 mm ( 70.8 in)Tightening torque 15-22 ft.lb. (20-30 Nm) Overall height: 1411 mm ( 55.5 in)

Wheel base 2833 mm (111.5 in)Track, front 1560 mm ( 61.4 in)Track, rear 1543 mm ( 60.7 in)

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Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants etc. – Capacities

Vehicle components and their respective lubricants must match. Therefore use only brands tested and recommended by us.Please refer to the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet, or inquire at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Model Capacity Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

E 300 Turbo Diesel 7.5 US qt (7.1 1) Recommended engine oilsEngine with oil filter E 320

E 4308.5 US qt (8.0 1)

E 55 AMG 8.0 US qt (7.5 1)

E 300 Turbo Diesel 8.5 US qt (8.0 1)Automatic transmission E 320 Automatic transmission fluid

E 430E 55 AMG

9.9 US qt (9.4 1)

E 300 Turbo Diesel 1.2 US qt (1.1 1)Rear axle E 320 Hypoid gear oil SAE 90, 85 W 90

E 430E 55 AMG

1.4 US qt (1.3 1)

Front axle E 320 with AMG 0.5 US qt (0.46 1) Hypoid gear oil SAE 90, 85 W 90

Transfer case E 320 with AMG approx. 1.1 oz (1.0l) Automatic transmission fluidPower Steering approx. 1.1 oz (1.0l) MB Power steering fluid

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Model Capacity Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.Front wheel hubs approx. 2.1 US qt (60g) each High temperature roller bearing greaseAccelerator controllinkage

Hydraulic fluid

Brake system approx. 0.5 US qt (0.5 1) MB Brake fluid (DOT 4)

Windshield washersystem

approx. 5.8 US qt (5.5 1) MB Windshield washer concentrate "S"1

Headlamp washer system approx. 1 .9 US qt (1 .8 I) MB Windshield washer concentrate "S"1

E 300 Turbo Diesel approx. 1 0.6 US qt (10 I) MB Anticorrosion/antifreeze

Cooling system E 320E 430E 55 AMG

approx. 11.8 US gal (11.2 I)

E 300 Turbo Diesel approx. 21.1 US gal (80.0 I)approx. 2.6 US gal (10.01)

Diesel fuels ace. to ASTM D 975 grades 1-Dand 2-D

E 320 approx. 21.1 US gal (80.0 I) Premium unleaded gasoline: PostedFuel tank including areserve of E 430

E 55 AMGapprox. 2.6 US gal (10.01) Octane 91 (Avg. of 96 RON/86 MON)

Air conditioner system R-134a refrigerant and special lubricant (NeverR-12)

1 Use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate "S" and water for temperatures above freezing or MBWindshield Washer Concentrate "S" and commercially available premixed windshield washersolvent/antifreeze for temperatures below freezing. Follow suggested mixing ratios, seeWindshield!Headlamp Washer System in Index.

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Engine Oils

Engine oils are specifically tested fortheir suitability in our engines.Therefore, use only engine oilsrecommended by Mercedes-Benz.Information on recommended brands isavailable at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Please follow Service Bookletrecommendations for scheduled oilchanges. Failure to do so could result inengine damage not covered by theMercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Engine Oil Additives

Do not blend oil additives with engineoil. They may be harmful to the engineoperation.

Damage or malfunctions resulting fromblending oil additives are not coveredby the Mercedes-Benz LimitedWarranty.

Air Conditioner Refrigerant

R-134a (HFC) refrigerant and specialPAG lubricating oil is used in the airconditioner system.

Never use R-12 (CFC) or mineral-based lubricating oil, otherwise damageto the system will occur.

Brake Fluid

During vehicle operation, the boilingpoint of the brake fluid is continuouslyreduced through the absorption ofmoisture from the atmosphere. Underextremely hard operating conditions,this moisture content can lead to theformation of bubbles in the system thusreducing the system's efficiency.

The brake fluid must therefore bereplaced every two years, preferablyin the spring.

It is recommended to use only brakefluid approved by Mercedes-Benz.Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerwill provide you with additionalinformation.

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Vehicles with Gasoline Engine

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

Caution!

To maintain the engine's durability andperformance, premium unleadedgasoline must be used. If premiumunleaded is not available and low octanefuel is used, follow these precautions:

• have the fuel tank filled only partiallywith unleaded regular and fill up withpremium unleaded as soon aspossible,

• avoid full throttle driving and abruptacceleration,

• do not exceed an engine speed of3000 rpm, if the vehicle is loaded witha light load such as two persons andno luggage,

• do not exceed 2/3 of maximumaccelerator pedal position, if thevehicle is fully loaded or operating inmountainous terrain.

Fuel Requirements

Use only Premium unleaded meetingASTM standard D 439:

The octane number (posted at thepump) must be 91 min. It is an averageof both the Research (R) octanenumber and the Motor (M) octanenumber: [(R+M)/2]. This is also knownas ANTI-KNOCK INDEX.

Unleaded gasoline containingoxygenates such as Ethanol, I PA, IBAand TBA can be used provided theratio of any one of these oxygenates togasoline does not exceed 10%, MTBEnot to exceed 15%.

The ratio of Methanol to gasoline mustnot exceed 3% plus additionalcosolvents.

Using mixtures of Ethanol andMethanol is not allowed. Gasohol,which contains 10% Ethanol and 90%unleaded gasoline, can be used.

These blends must also meet all otherfuel requirements such as resistance tospark knock, boiling range, vaporpressure etc..

Gasoline Additives

A major concern among enginemanufacturers is carbon build upcaused by gasoline. Mercedes-Benzrecommends the use of only qualitygasoline containing additives thatprevent the build up of carbon deposits.

After an extended period of using fuelswithout such additives, carbon depositscan build up especially on the intakevalves and in the combustion area,leading to engine performanceproblems such as:

• warm-up hesitation,• unstable idle,• knocking/pinging,• misfire,• power loss.

Do not blend other specific fueladditives with fuel. They only result inunnecessary cost, and may be harmfulto the engine operation.

Damage or malfunctions resulting frompoor fuel quality or from blendingspecific fuel additives are not coveredby the Mercedes-Benz LimitedWarranty.

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Vehicles with Diesel EngineDiesel Fuels

Use only commercially availablevehicular diesel fuels No. 2 or No. 1(ASTM D 975 No. 2-D or No. 1-D).

If diesel fuels are used with a sulphurcontent exceeding 0.5% by weight, referto the "Engine Oil Change and Oil FilterService" section. Marine diesel fuel,heating oil or the like must not be used.

At very low temperatures the fluidity ofNo. 2 diesel fuel may becomeinsufficient due to paraffin separation.For this reason the vehicle comesequipped with a fuel preheater. The fuelpreheater only works with the vehiclesinterior heater operating. It permits atroublefree engine operation to atemperature of approximately +14°F (-10°C) when using No. 2 diesel fuel.

To avoid malfunctions, No. 2 diesel fuelof a lowered cloud point is marketedduring the cold season.

At temperatures below +14°F (-10°C)use winterized or No. 1 diesel fuel only.

If not available, a certain quantity ofkerosene or fuel flow improver (referto MB Factory Approved ServiceProducts pamphlet) may be added.Mixing only to be done within the cars'fuel tank. Kerosene has to be filled inbefore the diesel fuel.

Engine power may drop according tothe proportjon of kerosene. For thisreason, keep percentage of keroseneadded to the minimum necessitated bythe ambient temperature.

The following table can be used as areference, if adding of kerosenebecomes necessary. The mixing ratiosshown refer to the total mixture.

Ambient temperature+14°F to -4°F (-10°C to -20°C)No. 2 Diesel Fuel: 70%Kerosene: 30%

Ambient temperaturebelow -4°F (-20°C)No. 2 Diesel Fuel: 50%Kerosene: 50%

Even in extreme climatic conditions,the maximum mixture ratio should notexceed 50%. Adding of kerosene toNo. 1 diesel fuel is not recommendedeven at low temperatures.

Do not blend other specific fueladditives with fuel. They only result inunnecessary cost, and may be harmfulto the engine operation. Damage ormalfunctions resulting from poor fuelquality or from blending specific fueladditives are not covered by theMercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Warning!

Under no circumstances shouldgasoline be mixed with diesel fuel.

Always follow basic safety ruleswhen working with any combustiblematerial. Do not fill the fuel tank ormix diesel fuel and kerosene whensmoking, near an open flame orwhile the vehicle's engine is running.An explosion or fire can result.

161

Therefore the following product isstrongly recommended for use in yourcar: Mercedes-Benz Anti corrosion/Antifreeze Agent.

Before the start of the winter season(or once a year in the hot southernregions), you should have theanticorrosion/antifreeze concentrationchecked. The coolant is also regularlychecked each time you bring yourvehicle to your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for service.

Anticorrosion/antifreeze quantity

Model Approx.freeze protection-35 °F -49 °F(-37 °C) (-45 °C)

E 300 Turbo-Diesel

E 320

5.3US qt 5.8 US qt(5.0 l) ( 5.5 l)

E 430E 55 AMG

5.9 US qt 6.5 US qt(5.6 l) (6.2 l)

Coolants

The engine coolant is a mixture ofwater and anticorrosion/antifreeze,which provides:

• corrosion protection,• freeze protection,• boiling protection (by increasing

the boiling point).

The cooling system was filled at thefactory with a coolant providing freezeprotection to approximately -22°F(-30°C) and corrosion protection.

The coolant solution must be used yearround to provide the necessarycorrosion protection and increase in theboil-over protection. You should haveit replaced every 3 years.

To provide the important corrosionprotection, the solution must be at least45% anticorrosion/antifreeze (equals afreeze protection to approx. -22°F|-30°C]). If you use a solution that ismore than 55% anticorrosion/antifreeze(freeze protection to approx. -49°F|-45°C]), the engine temperature willincrease due to the lower heat transfer

capability of the solution. Therefore, donot use more than this amount ofanticorrosion/ antifreeze.

If the coolant level is low, water andMB anticorrosion/antifreeze should beused to bring it up to the proper level(have cooling system checked for signsof leakage).

The water in the cooling system mustmeet minimum requirements, whichare usually satisfied by normal drinkingwater. If you are not sure about thewater quality, consult your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

Anticorrosion/antifreeze

Your vehicle contains a number ofaluminum parts. The use of aluminumcomponents in motor vehicle enginesnecessitates that anticorrosion/antifreeze coolant used in such enginesbe specifically formulated to protectthe aluminum parts. (Failure to usesuch anticorrosion/ antifreeze coolantwill result in a significantly shortenedservice life.)

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Consumer Information

This has been prepared as required ofall manufacturers of passenger carsunder Title 49, Code of U.S. FederalRegulations, Part 575 pursuant to the"National Traffic and Motor VehicleSafety Act of 1966".

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Refer to the tire sidewall for thespecific tire grades for the tires withwhich this vehicle is equipped.

All passenger car tires must conform tofederal safety requirements in additionto these grades.

Treadwear

The treadwear grade is a comparativerating based on the wear rate of the tirewhen tested under controlled conditionson a specified government test course.For example, a tire graded 150 wouldwear one and one-half (11/2) times aswell on the government course as a tiregraded 100. The relative performanceof tires depends upon the actualconditions of their use, however, andmay depart significantly

from the norm due to variations indriving habits, service practices anddifferences in road characteristics andclimate.

Traction

The traction grades, from highest tolowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Thosegrades represent the tire's ability to stopon wet pavement as measured undercontrolled conditions on specifiedgovernment test surfaces of asphalt andconcrete. A tire marked C may havepoor traction performance.

Warning!

The traction grade assigned to thistire is based on straight-aheadbraking traction tests, and does notinclude acceleration, cornering,hydroplaning, or peak tractioncharacteristics.

Temperature

The temperature grades are A (thehighest), B, and C, representing thetire's resistance to the generation ofheat and its ability to dissipate heatwhen tested under

controlled conditions on a specifiedindoor laboratory test wheel. Sustainedhigh temperature can cause the materialof the tire to degenerate and reduce tirelife, and excessive temperature canlead to sudden tire failure. The grade Ccorresponds to a level of performancewhich all passenger car tires must meetunder the Federal Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard No.109. Grades B and Arepresent higher levels of performanceon the laboratory test wheel than theminimum required by law.

Warning!

The temperature grade for this tireis established for a tire that isproperly inflated and notoverloaded. Excessive speed,underinflation, or excessive loading,either separately or in combination,can cause excessive heat build upand possible tire failure.

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Problems with your Vehicle

If you should experience a problem with your vehicle, particularly one that you believemay affect its safe operation, we urge you to immediately contact your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer to have the problem diagnosed and corrected if required. Ifthe matter is not handled to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem with thedealership management, or if necessary contact us at the following addresses:

In the U.S.A.: Customer Assistance CenterMercedes-Benz of North America Inc.One Mercedes Drive Montvale,NJ 07645-0350

In Canada: Customer Relations DepartmentMercedes-Benz Canada Inc.849 Eglinton Avenue East Toronto,Ontario, M4G 2L5

164

For the U.S.A. only.The following text is published as required of manufacturers under Title 49, Codeof U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the "National Traffic and MotorVehicle Safety Act of 1966".

Reporting Safety Defects

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could causeinjury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic SafetyAdministration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Mercedes-Benz of North AmericaInc..

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it findsthat a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedycampaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problemsbetween you, your dealer, or Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc..

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S.Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain otherinformation about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

165

Index

166

ABS 85-86, 97-100, 102, 105Acceleration slip regulation (ASR) 100Air conditioner refrigerant 158Air distribution 26Air volume 26 Airbag 55Airbag deactivation system 53Alarm system 40-41All wheel drive (AWD) 99Anticorrosion/antifreeze 105, 109,

157, 161Antilock brake system (ABS) 97Antitheft alarm system 40Armrest, rear bench 47Ashtrays 70 ASR 82,97-98, 100-

101, 105-106, 133ASR Control Switch 101Automatic climate control

Activated charcoal filter 25, 27Air recirculation 25, 27Basic setting 25Dust filter 27Economy 25, 27Special setting

Defogging windows 26Defrosting 26

Automatic transmission fluid level 111AWD 99,150, 156

BabySmart™ 53BAS 97-100, 102Battery 127Battery charge indicator 91Brake assist system 98Brake fluid 18, 94, 134, 157-158Brake pad wear indicator 94Brake warning lamp

Brake fluid low 94Brakes 18-19,82,84-86,98-100,

102, 133Capacities: Fuels, coolants,

lubricants etc. 156Catalytic converter 15Cellular telephone 80Central locking switch 36Central locking system 31Check regularly and before a long

trip 172Child restraint 44, 49, 52, 60-61Cleaning and care of the vehicle 134Clock, setting 78Combination switch 64Consumer information 162Coolant level low

Adding coolant 109Coolant level, checking 109Coolant temperature gauge

92-93,108-109Coolants 161

Cruise control 88Cup holder 47, 73

Daytime running lamps 66Diesel fuel system, bleeding 111Display illumination 78Doors 35Drinking and driving 82Driving instructions 18Driving off 82

Electronic key 31Electronic stability program (ESP) 102Electronic traction system 99Emergency tensioning retractor

(ETR) 54Emission control 104Emission control label 146Engine malfunction

"CHECK ENGINE" malfunctionindicator lamp 87, 104

Engine oil additives 158Engine oil consumption 91Engine oil level, checking 110Engine oils 156, 158Engine overheating 93Engine speed limit Overrevving 85ETS 97-99, 105, 133Exterior lamp failure indicator 94Exterior lamp switch 66

167

First aid kit 47Flexible service system 95Front center console compartment

ventilation 28FSS 78, 95-96Fuel

Diesel fuel additives 160Diesel fuels 105, 157, 160Gasoline additives 159Premium unleaded gasoline 15, 157,159

Fuel cap placement warning 91Fuel filler flap, manual release 143Fuel requirements 159Fuel reserve warning 91Fuses 129

Garage door opener 79

Head restraints, front 42Head restraints, rear 48Head restraints, removal 140Headlamp cleaning system 65Headlights 66Heated seats 46Hood 108

Identification labels 146Instrument lamps 78Interior lighting 72

Jump starting 130

Keys, vehicle 29

Lamps, exterior Fog lamps 66Headlamp, adjusting 122Headlamps 66, 94, 120, 123, 125,

135License plate lamp 66Standing lamps 66, 74Taillamps 66, 126, 135

Layout of poly-V-belt drive 144Lighter 71Locking and unlocking 31-32Low engine coolant level warning 93Low engine oil level warning 91

Maintenance 4, 7Mechanical key 34Memory

Recalling 43Storing 28,43,68, 113, 118

Mirror, exterior, rear view 68Mirror, inside, rear view 67Mirrors, adjusting 68Mulfunction indicator 13Multicontour seat 45Multifunction indicator

Defective 90Language selection 90

Multiple malfunctions 90

Night security illumination 67

Outside temperature indicator 92

Parcel net 76Parking brake 16-18,21,70, 82-84,

86, 94, 100, 102, 104, 113, 116-117, 130

Power seats, front 42Power windows

Opening and closing 31, 75-76Synchronizing remote control 139Problems with your vehicle 163

Radio transmitters 7Rear passenger compartment

adjustable air outlet 28Rear seat cushion 141Rear window defroster 26Rear window sunshade 77Remote control 31Remote control battery

replacement 138Replacing bulbs 121Residual engine heat utilization 28Roadside assistance 5Roof rack 143

168

Safety guidelines for the seat belt,emergency tensioning retractorand airbag 59

Seat belt warning lamp 92Seat belts and warning system 49Shelf below rear window 48Side Marker Lamp 126Sliding/pop-up roof 31, 33, 39, 74, 141

Emergency operation 141Sliding/pop-up roof operation 74Snow chains 106Spare parts service 143Spare wheel 112Special Settings 26SRS malfunction 55Start lockout 30Starting and turning off

diesel engine 17,62,104-105gasoline engine 16, 62,104, 108

Steering lock 62Steering wheel, adjustable 47Storage compartments 73Stowing things in the vehicle 112Sun visors 71Supplemental restraint system

(SRS) 49, 54Synchronizing remote control 139

Tachometer 92Technical data 148Temporarily switching off 90Tie down rings 48Tire inflation pressure 119Tires 18-20,98-103, 105,

113-115, 119, 148, 150, 152,154,162

Tow-away protection 41Towing the vehicle 131Transmission 83Traveling abroad 106Trip odometer 78Trunk 38Trunk lamp 112Trunklid

Release switch 75, 77Trunk, remote opening 33Trunk, separately locked 38Turn signals 64

Vanity mirrors 71Vehicle jack 113Vehicle tools 112

Warranty coverage 147Washing the car 135Wheels

Alloy wheels 137Rims and tires 113-114Wheels, changing 117

Windshield/headlamp washer systemFluid level low 93Washer fluid mixing ratio 65

Winter driving 105Winter driving instructions 21Wiper blade insert, replacing 142

169

170

171

Service and Literature

Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer has trainedtechnicians and original Mercedes-Benz parts to serviceyour vehicle properly. For expert advice and qualityservice, see your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.If you are interested in obtaining service literature for yourvehicle, please contact your authorized Mercedes-Benzdealer.

We consider this to be the best way for you to obtainaccurate information for your vehicle.

Warning!

To help avoid personal injury, be extremely careful whenperforming any service work or repairs. Improper orincomplete service or the use of incorrect or inappropriateparts or materials may damage the vehicle or its equipment,which may in turn result in personal injury.

If you have any question about carrying out some service,turn to the advice of an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

172

Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip

E 320 shown

1 Windshield Washer SystemFor refilling reservoir see Index

2 Headlamp Cleaning SystemAuxiliary tank connected to windshield washerreservoir. Open filler caps on both reservoirs duringrefilling.

3 Coolant LevelSee Adding coolant in Index.

4 Engine Oil LevelSee Engine oil level, checking in Index.

5 Brake FluidSee Brake fluid in Index.

Vehicle Lighting: Check function and cleanliness. Forreplacement of light bulbs, see Lamps, exterior in Index.

• Fuel Supply

Open flap by pushing near front (arrow). Turn fuel cap to theleft and hold on to it until possible pressure in tank has beenreleased, then remove cap. Failure to remove slowly couldresult in personal injury.

Warning!

Gasoline is highly flammable and poisonous. It burnsviolently and can cause serious injury. Whenever you arearound gasoline, avoid inhaling fumes and skin contact,extinguish all smoking materials. Never allow sparks,flame or smoking materials near gasoline!

173

What You Should Know at the Gas Station

• Fuel:

To prevent fuel vapors from escaping into open air,fully insert filler nozzle unit.Only fill fuel tank until the filler nozzle unit cuts out -do not top up or overfill.Leaving the engine running and the fuel cap open cancause the "Check Engine" lamp to illuminate.Use premium unleaded gasoline: Posted Octane Index91 (Average of 96 RON/86 MON).Fuel tank capacity approx. 16.4 US gal (62.0 l). Thisincludes approx. 2.1 US gal (8.0 l) reserve.

• Engine Oil:

Engine oil level check, see Index.Fill quantity between upper and lower dipstickmarking level: 2.1 US qt (2.0 l).Recommended engine oils, see Index.

• Coolant:

For normal replenishing, use water (potable waterquality).For further information (e.g. anticorrosion/antifreeze), refer to Index.

• Spark Plugs:

Approved spark plugs, refer to "Technical Data".

• Bulbs:

High and low beams: H7 (55 W), low beam:Xenon (optional) fog lamps: H1 (55 W),turn signal lamps, front: 11 56 NA(26.9/5 W/32/4 cp),parking and standing lamps, front: H6 W, side markerlamps, front: 5 W/4 cp, turn signal lamps, side: W Y 5 W,stop, tail, parking, and side marker lamps: 21/4 W, turnsignal lamps, rear: 21 W/24 cp, tail and parking lamp: 5W/4 cp, rear fog lamp, driver's side: 21 W/32 cp, backuplamps: 21 W/32 cp, license plate lamps: 5 W/4 cp.

• Tire Pressure:

For tire pressure, refer to tire pressure label inside the fuelfiller flap.

• Air Conditioner:

R-134a refrigerant and special PAG lubricant, refer to"Technical Data" (also see Index).