277 Operation
Driving instructions
Catalytic converter
Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with 
monolithic-type catalytic converters, an 
important element in conjunction with 
the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial 
control of the pollutants in the exhaust 
emissions. Keep your vehicle in proper 
operating condition by following our 
recommended maintenance instructions 
as outlined in your Maintenance Booklet.Emission control
Certain systems of the engine serve to 
keep the toxic components of the exhaust 
gases within permissible limits required by 
law. 
These systems, of course, will function 
properly only when maintained strictly 
according to factory specifications. Any 
adjustments on the engine should there-
fore be carried out only by qualified 
Mercedes-Benz Center authorized techni-
cians. Engine adjustments should not be 
altered in any way. Moreover, the specified 
service jobs must be carried out regularly 
according to Mercedes-Benz servicing 
requirements. For details 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. 
324 Operation
Tires and wheels
Maximum tire inflation pressure
This number is the greatest amount of air 
pressure that should ever be put in the tire 
under normal driving conditions.
Normal occupant weight
The number of occupants the vehicle is 
designed to seat, multiplied by 
68 kilograms (150 lbs).
Occupant distribution
The distribution of occupants in a vehicle 
at their designated seating positions.
Production options weight
The combined weight of those installed 
regular production options weighing over 
5 lbs (2.3 kilograms) in excess of those 
standard items which they replace, not 
previously considered in curb weight or 
accessory weight, including heavy duty 
brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty 
battery, and special trim.PSI (Pounds per square inch)
A standard unit of measure for air pressure 
-> bar, kilopascal (kPa).
Recommended tire inflation pressure
The recommended tire inflation pressure is 
listed on Tire and Loading Information 
placard located on driver’s door B-pillar for 
normal driving conditions and provides 
best handling, tread life and riding com-
fort. If so equipped, supplemental informa-
tion pertaining to special driving situations 
can be found on the tire inflation pressure 
label on the inside of the fuel filler flap.
Rim
A metal support for a tire or a tire and tube 
assembly upon which the tire beads are 
seated.
Sidewall
The portion of a tire between the tread and 
the bead.TIN (Tire Identification Number)
Unique identifier which facilitates efforts 
by tire manufacturers to notify purchasers 
in recall situations or other safety matters 
concerning tires and gives purchases the 
means to easily identify such tires. The TIN 
is comprised of “Manufacturer’s identifica-
tion mark”, “Tire size”, “Tire type code” 
and “Date of manufacture”.
Tire load rating
Numerical code associated with the 
maximum load a tire can support.
Tire ply composition and material used
This indicates the number of plies or the 
number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in 
the tire tread and sidewall. Tire manufac-
turers also must indicate the ply materials 
in the tire and sidewall, which include 
steel, nylon, polyester, and others.