299 Check regularly and before a long trip
Te ch n i c a l
data Instruments 
and controlsOperationDrivingInstrument 
cluster displayPractical hints Car care Index Check regularly and before a long trip 1Windshield washer and 
headlamp cleaning system
For refilling reservoir see page 345.
2Coolant level, 
see “Adding coolant” on page 344
3Engine oil level, 
see “Engine oil level checking” on page  156 and 342
4Brake fluid, 
see “Brake fluid” on page 404
Opening hood, see page 339.
Ve h i c l e  l i g h t i n g : Check function and cleanliness. For 
replacement of light bulbs, see “Exterior lamps” on 
page 364.
Exterior lamp switch, see page 158. 
344 Engine compartment
Te ch n i c a l
data Instruments 
and controlsOperation DrivingInstrument 
cluster displayPractical hintsCar care Index
Coolant level
1Coolant expansion tank
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.
The coolant level should reach the black top part of the 
reservoir.
See page 406 for antifreeze / anticorrosion mixture.Adding coolant
If coolant has to be added, a 50/50 mixture of water and 
MB anticorrosion / antifreeze should be added.
P82.35-2001-26
1
Wa r n i n g !
• 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.