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Low Engine Coolant Level Warning Lamp
With the electronic key in steering lock position 2, the warning lamp comes on.
It should go out when the engine is running. If the warning lamp does not go out after starting the
engine, or if it comes on while driving, then the coolant level has dropped below the required level. If
no leaks are noticeable and the engine temperature does not increase, continue to drive to the
nearest service station and have coolant added to the coolant system (see Index).
The low engine coolant level warning light should not be ignored. Extended driving with the light
illuminated may cause serious engine damage not co vered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
In cases of major or frequent minor coolant lo ss, have the cooling system checked at your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.
Note:
Do not drive without coolant in the cooling sy stem. The engine will overheat causing major engine
damage. Monitor the coolant temperature gauge while driving.
Warning !
Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which may
burn if it comes into contact with hot engine parts. You can be seriously burned.
Low Windshield and Headlamp Washer System Fluid Level Warning Lamp
With the electronic key in steering lock position 2, the warning lamp comes on. It should go out when
the engine is running. If the warning lamp does not go out after starting the engine, or if it comes on
while driving, the level of the reservoir has droppe d to approx.1/4 of the total volume. The reservoir
should be refilled with MB Windshield Washer Concentrate "S" and water (or commercially available
premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze, depending on ambient temperature - see Index) at
the next opportunity. The reservoir for the windshie ld and headlamp washer systems is located in
the engine compartment.
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Example
Checking Coolant Level
To check the coolant level, the vehicle must be parked on level ground and the engine stopped.
Check coolant level only when coolant is cold.
Adding Coolant
If coolant has to be added, a 50/50 mixture of water and MB anticorrosion/antifreeze should be added. The drain
plugs
for the cooling system are located on the right side of the engine block and at the bottom of the radiator.
Anticorrosion/antifreeze, see Coolants in Index.
Warning!
In order to avoid possibly serious burns:
•Use extreme caution when opening the hood if there are any signs of steam or coolant leaking from the
cooling system, or if the coolant temperature gauge indicates that the coolant is overheated.
•Do not remove pressure cap on coolant reservoir if engine temperature is above 194°F (90°C). Allow
engine to cool down before removing cap. The coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is under pressure.
•Using a rag, slowly open cap approximately 1/2 turn to relieve excess pressure. If opened immediately,
scalding hot fluid and steam will be blown out under pressure.
•Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which may burn if it comes
into contact with hot engine parts.
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Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip
The engine compartment of model C 230 is illustrated.
1. Fuel Supply
Open flap by pushing near front (arrow). Turn fuel cap
to the left and hold on to it until possible pressure in tank
has been released, then remove cap.
Failure to remove slowly could result in personal injury.
2. Tire Inflation Pressure
Check at least every two weeks.
For details see Index.
3. Coolant Level
See Adding coolant in Index.
4. Windshield Washer System,
Headlamp Cleaning System
For refilling reservoir see Index.
5. Engine Oil Level
See Index.
6. Brake Fluid
See Index.
Vehicle Lighting: Check function and cleanliness.
For replacement of light bulbs, see Index.
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