432 Controls in detailAutomatic transmissionIf you are driving in the manual program 
modeM, upshift indicator2 in the multi-
function display advises you to upshift be-
fore the engine reaches the overspeed 
range. Thus you can drive at the maximum 
engine speed for each gear without over-
revving the engine.
1Gear indicator
2Upshift indicator “up”
3Engine oil temperature
4Vehicle supply voltage
Shift to the next higher gear.
The fuel supply will otherwise be inter-
rupted to prevent the engine from over-
revving.Downshifting
Briefly pull left shift paddle1 
(page 429).
The transmission shifts to the next 
lower gear.Kickdown
Using the kickdown when driving in the 
manual program modeM is not possible.
Deactivating manual shift program
Press the program mode selector 
switch (
page 430) repeatedly until 
“C”or“S” appears in the multifunction 
display.
or
Restart the engine.
The transmission will go to the 
automatic program mode (C orS).
The manual program modeM is not 
stored.
Warning!
G
On slippery road surfaces, never downshift 
in order to obtain braking action. This could 
result in drive wheel slip and reduced 
vehicle control. Your vehicle’s ABS will not 
prevent this type of loss of control.i
When you brake or stop, the transmission 
shifts down to a gear from which you can easily 
accelerate or drive off.
 
548 OperationDriving instructionsCatalytic converter
Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with 
monolithic-type catalytic converters, an 
important element in conjunction with the 
oxygen sensors to achieve substantial con-
trol of the pollutants in the exhaust emis-
sions. Keep your vehicle in proper 
operating condition by following our rec-
ommended maintenance instructions as 
outlined in your Maintenance Booklet.
Emission control
Certain parts of the engine and the emis-
sion control system serve to keep the toxic 
components of the exhaust gases within 
permissible limits required by law.
These systems will function properly only 
when maintained strictly according to fac-
tory specifications. Any adjustments on 
the engine should, therefore, be carried 
out only by qualified Mercedes-Benz Cen-
ter authorized technicians. 
Engine adjustments should not be altered 
in any way. The specified service proce-
dures must be carried out regularly accord-
ing to Mercedes-Benz servicing 
requirements. For details please refer to 
the Maintenance Booklet.
!
To prevent damage to the catalytic convert-
ers, only use premium unleaded gasoline in this 
vehicle.
Any noticeable irregularities in engine operation 
should be repaired promptly. Otherwise, exces-
sive unburned fuel may reach the catalytic con-
verter, causing it to overheat and potentially 
start a fire.
Warning!
G
As with any vehicle, do not idle, park or op-
erate this vehicle in areas where combusti-
ble materials such as grass, hay or leaves 
can come into contact with the hot exhaust 
system, as these materials could be ignited 
and cause a vehicle fire.