191 Steering lock
Technical
data Instruments 
and controlsOperationDrivingInstrument 
cluster displayPractical hints Car care Index Important!
If the electronic key is left in the steering lock position 0 
for an extended period of time, it can no longer be 
turned in the lock. In this case, remove electronic key 
from steering lock and reinsert.
Caution!
To prevent accelerated battery discharge and a possible 
dead battery, always remove the electronic key from the 
steering lock. Do not leave the electronic key in steering 
lock position 0.Notes:
A warning sounds when the driver’s door is opened 
while the electronic key is in steering lock position 1 
or 0.
If the electronic key cannot be turned in the steering 
lock,  the vehic le b attery  may  no t b e suf f i cien tly  charged . 
See battery on page 268 or jump starting on page 270.
With the engine at idle speed, the charging rate of the 
alternator (output) is limited.
It is therefore recommended that you turn off 
unnecessary electrical consumers while driving in stop-
and-go traf fic. This precaution helps to avoid draining of 
the battery.
Unnecessary strain on the battery and charging system 
may be minimized by turning off the following power 
consumers, for example: Heated seats, rear window 
defroster. In addition, the automatic climate air volume 
control should be set to the lowest position.
The steering lock can only be unlocked with the vehicle 
battery properly charged and connected.
J_C208_II.book Seite 191 Donnerstag, 31. Mai 2001 10:13 10