1999 MERCEDES-BENZ C-280 Owners Manual

Jump Starting

Warning !
Failure to follow these directions will cause damage to the electronic components, and can lead to a battery
explosion and severe injury or death. Never lean over batteries while connecting or jump starting, you might
get injured. Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow this fluid to come in contact with eyes, skin or
clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected ar ea with water, and seek medical help if necessary.
A battery will also produce hydrogen gas, which is flammable and very explosive. Keep flames or sparks
away from battery, avoid improper connection of jumper cables, smoking etc.. Read all instructions before
proceeding.

If the battery is discharged, the engine should be started with jumper cables and the (12 V) battery of another vehicle.
The battery is located in the trunk under the trunk floor.

Proceed as follows:
1 . Position the vehicle with the charged battery so that the jumper cables will reach, but never
let the vehicles touch. Make sure the jump er cables do not have loose or missing insulation.
2. On both vehicles:
• Turn off engine and all lights and acce ssories, except hazard warning flashers or
work lights.
• Apply parking brake and shift selector lever to position "P".

Important !
3. Clamp one end of the first jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal of the discharged
battery and the other end to the positive (+ ) terminal of the charged battery. Make sure
the cable clamps do not touch any other metal parts.
4. Clamp one end of the second jumper cable to the grounded negative (-) terminal of the
charged battery and the final connection to the negative (-) terminal of the discharged battery.


Important !
5. Start engine of the vehicle with the charged battery and run at high idle. Make sure the
cables are not on or near pulleys, fans, or other parts that will move when the engine is
started. Allow the discharged battery to charge for a few minutes. Start engine of the
disabled vehicle in the usual manner.
6. After the engine has started, remove jumper cables exactly reversing the above
installation sequence, starting with the last connection made first. When removing each
clamp, make sure that it does not touch any other metal while the other end is still attached.


Important !
A discharged battery can freeze at approx. +14°F (-10°C ). In that case, it must be thawed out before
jumper cables are used. A frozen battery can explode and cause personal injury.

Jumper cable specifications:
• Minimum cable cross-section of 25 mm
2 or approx. 2 AWG
• Maximum length of 11.5 ft. (3.5 m).


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All except C 43 AMG

C 43 AMG



Towing the Vehicle

The rear towing eye is located at the right, below the bumper.
The front towing eye is located on the passenger side behind a cover in the bumper panel.

Models C 230 and C 280:
Cover removal:
Insert finger in recess on left end of cover and pull cover out.
Cover installation:
Engage cover at top right and press cover in securely
.

Model C 43 AMG:
Cover removal:
Hold left and right end of grille and pull out.
Cover installation:
Engage cover at bottom and press in top securely.
We recommend that the vehicle be transported using flat bed equipment. This method is preferable to other
types of towing. The vehicle may be towed with all wheel s on the ground and the selector lever in position "N"
for distances up to 30 miles (50 km) and at a speed not to exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). The electronic key must
be in steering lock position 2. To positively avoid a possibility of damage to the transmission, however, we
recommend to disconnect the drive shaft at the rear axle drive flange on any towing beyond a short tow to a nearby
garage. Do not tow with sling-type equipment. Towing with sling-type equipment over bumpy roads will damage
radiator and supports. Use wheel lift, dolly, or flat bed equipment, with electronic key in steering lock turned to
position 0.


Warning !
With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the braking and steering systems, in this case,
it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer
the vehicle.

Note:
To signal turns while being towed with hazard warning flas her in use, turn electronic key in steering lock to
position 2 and activate combination switch for left or right turn signal in usual manner - only the selected turn
signal will operate. Upon cancelling the turn signal, the hazard warning flasher will operate again.

Caution !
Vehicles with Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR)
If the vehicle is towed with the front axle raised, the engi ne must be shut off (electronic key in steering lock position
0 or 1). Otherwise, the ASR will immediately be engaged and will apply the rear wheel brakes.


Caution !
Vehicles with Electronic Stability System (ESP)
If the vehicle is towed with the front axle raised, the engine must be shut off (electronic key in steering lock position
0 or 1). Otherwise, the ESP will immediately be engaged and will apply the rear wheel brakes.


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Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle

Warning !
Many cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are poisonous, others are flammable.
Always follow the instructions on the particular container. Always open your car's doors or
windows when cleaning the inside. Never use fluids or solvents that are not designed for
cleaning your car.

In operation, your vehicle is subjected to varying external influences which, if gone unchecked, can
attack the paintwork as well as the underbody and cause lasting damage.
Such damage is caused not only by extreme and varying climatic conditions, but also by air
pollution, road salt, tar, gravel and stone chipping. Grease and oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluid, bird
droppings, insects, tree resins etc. should be removed immediately to avoid paint damage. Frequent
washing reduces and/or eliminates the aggr essiveness and potency of the above adverse
influences.
More frequent washings are necessary to deal with unfavorable conditions; for example, near the
ocean, in industrial areas (smoke, exhaust emissions), or during winter operation.
You should check your vehicle from time to time for stone chipping or other damage. Any damage
should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent the start of corrosion. In doing so, do not neglect
the underside of the car. A prerequisite for a t horough check is a washing of the underbody followed
by a thorough inspection. Damage d areas need to be reundercoated.
Your vehicle has been treated at the factory with a wax-base rustproofing in the body cavities which
will last for the lifetime of t he vehicle. Post-production treatment is neither necessary nor
recommended by Mercedes-Be nz because of the possibility of incompatibility between materials
used in the production proc ess and others applied later.
We have selected car care products and compiled recommendations which are specially matched to
our vehicles and which always reflect the late st technology. You can obtain Mercedes- Benz
approved car care products at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.
Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosion or damage due to negligent or incorrect care cannot always
be removed or repaired with the car care products recommended here. In such cases it is best to
seek aid at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. The following topics deal with the cleaning and
care of your vehicle and give important "how-to" in formation as well as references to Mercedes-Benz
approved car care products. Additional information can be found in the booklet titled "Car Care".


Engine Cleaning
Prior to cleaning the engine compartment make sure to protect electrical components and
connectors from the intrusion of water and cleaning agents.
Corrosion protection, such as MB Anticorrosion Wax should be applied to the engine compartment
after every engine cleaning. Before applying, all control linkage bushings and joints should be
lubricated. The poly-V-belt and all pulleys should be protected from any wax.


Car Washing
Do not use hot water or wash your car in direct sunlight. Use only a mild car wash detergent, such
as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Shampoo.
Thoroughly spray the car with a diffused jet of wa ter. Direct only a very weak spray towards the
ventilation intake. Use plenty of water an d rinse the sponge and chamois frequently.
Rinse with clear water and thoroughly wipe dry with a chamois. Do not allow cleaning agents to dry
on the finish. If the vehicle has been run through an automatic car wash - in particular one of the
older installations - rewipe the recessed sections in the taillamps (designed to prevent soiling) if
necessary. No solvents (fuels, thi nners etc.) must be used. In the winter, thoroughly remove all
traces of road salt as soon as possible.
When washing the underbody, do not forget to clean the inner sides of the wheels.


Tar Stains
Quickly remove tar stains before they dry and beco me more difficult to remove. A tar remover is
recommended.


Window Cleaning
Use a window cleaning solution on all glass surfac es. An automotive glass cleaner is recommended.


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Wiper Blade
Clean the wiper blade rubber with a clean cloth and detergent solution. Replace blade twice a year;
once before and once after winter.


Headlamp Cleaning System
The condition of the wiper blades is important for satisfactory cleaning of the headlamp lenses. We
therefore recommend that the blades be insp ected regularly. Replace damaged wiper blades.


Paintwork. Painted Body Components
Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Care should be a pplied when water drops on the paint surface do
not "bead up"; normally in 3 to 5 months, depending on climate and washing detergent used.
Mercedes-Benz approved Paint Cleaner should be ap plied if paint surface shows signs of dirt
embedding (i.e. loss of gloss). Do not apply any of t hese products or wax if your car is parked in the
sun or if the hood is still hot. Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up Stick for quick and provisional
repairs of minor paint damage (i.e. chips from stones, car doors etc.).


Seat Belts
The webbing must not be treated with chemical cleaning agents. Use only clear, lukewarm water
and soap. Do not dry the webbing at temperatures above 176°F (80°C) or in direct sunlight.

Warning !
Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. In a crash they may not be
able to provide adequate protection.


Hard Plastic Trim Items
Pour Mercedes-Benz approved Interior Care onto so ft lint-free cloth and apply with light pressure.


Headliner and Shelf below Rear Window
Clean with soft bristle brush, or use a dry- shampoo cleaner in case of excessive dirt.


Plastic and Rubber Parts
Do not use oil or wax on these parts.


Steering Wheel and Gear Selector Lever
Wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care.


Light Alloy Wheels
Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care should be used for regular cleaning of the light alloy wheels.
If possible, clean wheels once a week with Merc edes-Benz approved Wheel Care, using a soft
bristle brush and a strong 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 very dirty chrome-plated parts, use a chrome cleaner.


Upholstery
Using aftermarket seat covers or wearing clothing that have the tendency to give off coloring (e.g.
when wet etc.) may cause the upholstery to become permanently discolored. By lining the seats with
a proper intermediate cover, contac t-discoloration will be prevented.
Leather Upholstery Wipe leather upholstery with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with
Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care. Exercise particular care when cleaning perforated leather
as its underside should not become wet.
MB Tex Upholstery Pour Mercedes-Benz approved In terior Care onto soft lint-free cloth and apply
wi
th light pressure.
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Instrument Cluster
Use a gentle dish-washing detergent or mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a washing solution.
Wipe with a cloth moistened in lukewarm solution. Do not use scouring agents.


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Electronic Main Key Remote Control

1. Transmit buttons
2. Lamp for battery check and function control


Checking Batteries:
If one of the transmit buttons is pressed, the function contro l lamp briefly illuminates - indicating that the batteries
are in order. Change batteries if the function control lamp does not come on.




Changing Batteries:
Move lock (1) in direction of right arrow and slide out mechanical key (2, left arrow). Insert mechanical key (2) in
side opening (3). Press briefly (do not use ke y as lever) to release battery compartment.
Remove mechanical key.
Lift battery compartment (4) slightly in direction of arrow (5) and remove in direction of arrow (6). Change batteries
(7), inserting new ones under contact spring (8) with plus (+) side facing up. Return battery compartment into housing
until locked in place.

Important !
Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Recycling of batteries is the
preferred method of disposal. For disposal, please fo llow manufacturer's recommendation on battery package.
Replacement battery: Lithium, type CR 2025 or equivalent.

Synchronizing Remote Control:
The remote control may have to be resynchronized, if t he vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked. To synchronize
insert electronic key in steering lock. The remote control should once again be operational.


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Front Head Restraints




Warning !
For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints. Adjust head restraint to support the
back of the head approximately at ear level. Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head restraints. Head
restraints are intended to help reduce injuries during an accident.

For positioning of head restraints refer to sections Manual
Seats, Power Seats, and Head Restraints, Rear in Index.

Power seats
Removal:
Push button (1) up to bring the head restraint to its highest position. Pull out head restraint completely with both
hands. Installation:
Push button (1) up for approximately 5 seconds. In sert head restraint and push it down to the stop.
Adjust head restraint, see Index.

Manual seat
Removal:
Pull head restraint up to the stop. Push button (1) and pull head restraint out.
Installation:
Insert the head restraint and push it down to the stop. Adjust head restraint, see Index.


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Rear Seat Cushion

Removal:
Push in locking tabs (on left and right side of seat) and pull up seat at the front. Installation: Slide rear edge of
cushion under the backrest. Push front of cushion down until it locks in place.

Caution!
Watch out for sharp edges when removing or installing the rear seat cushion, and make sure that it is securely
locked in place again, to prevent personal injury.




Emergency Operation of Sliding/Pop-Up Roof

The sliding/pop-up roof can be opened or closed manually should an electrical malfunction occur.
The sliding/pop-up roof drive is located behind the le ns of the left interior lamp between the sun visors.
1. Pry off lens (1) by using a screw driver.
2. Obtain crank (2) (supplied with vehicle) and insert it through hole.

To slide the roof closed or to raise the roof at the rear: turn crank clockwise.
To slide the roof open or to lower the roof at the rear: turn crank counterclockwise.


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