Checking and refilling levels225
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Technical Data
– Carefully put in the specified grade of oil ⇒page 223, adding
0.5 litres at a time.
– After two minutes, check the oil level once again ⇒page 224.
– Where necessary, add more engine oil.
– Replace the oil filler cap carefully and push the dipstick all the way in.
WARNING
•When refilling with oil, make sure no oil falls onto hot engine parts.
Failure to comply could result in fire.•Wash your skin thoroughly if it comes into contact with engine oil.Caution
•The oil level must never be above area . This could damage the cata-
lytic converter or the engine. Contact a specialist garage to drain the engine
oil if necessary.•No additives should be used with engine oil. Any damage caused by the
use of such additives would not be covered by the factory warranty.For the sake of the environment
•Oil must not be disposed of into the drains or onto the ground.•Always observe legal requirements when disposing of empty oil
canisters.
Cooling systemLiquid coolant
The purpose of the liquid coolant is to carry heat away from
the engine. The correct amount of antifreeze is decisive in
preventing the cooling system from freezing in winter.The your vehicle's engine cooling system is filled for life at the factory, so no
coolant needs to be changed. The liquid coolant consists of a mixture of water
and anti-freeze G12++. This is a glycol-based antifreeze with anti-corrosion
additives.
Liquid coolant additive
The amount of antifreeze required depends on the temperatures to be
expected in the winter season. If the antifreeze concentration is too low the
coolant can freeze, resulting in failure of the cooling system and heater.
The cooling system is filled at the factory with the correct amount of anti-
freeze for the country concerned.
In most cases, the mixture consists of 60% water and 40% anti-freeze . This
mixture gives the required anti-freeze protection at temperatures down to
-25°C and particularly protects the metal parts of the cooling system against
corrosion. It also prevents scaling and significantly raises the boiling point of
the liquid coolant.
Countries with warm climate
The liquid coolant concentration must not be reduced by adding plain water,
even in the summer or in warm climates. The concentration of the anti-freeze
must always be at least 40%.
Countries with cold climate
If greater frost protection is required in very cold climates, the proportion of
the anti-freeze G12++ can be increased. A concentration of 60% offers anti-
Aa
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Liquid coolant losses
Any loss of liquid coolant normally indicates a
leak in the cooling system. In
this case the cooling system should be inspected by a specialist garage
without delay. It is not sufficient merely to top up the liquid coolant.
If there are no leaks in the system, a loss of liquid coolant can only occur if
the coolant boils and is forced out of the system as a result of overheating.
Caution
Radiator sealants must not be added to the liquid coolant. Such additives
could seriously impair the function of the cooling system.Topping up the liquid coolant
Be careful when topping up with liquid coolant.– Switch the engine off.
– Wait for the engine to cool down.
– Cover the cap on the expansion tank ⇒page 226, fig. 172 with a
cloth, and carefully unscrew the cap anti-clockwise ⇒.
– Add liquid coolant.
– Screw on the cap tightly.Make sure that the liquid coolant meets the required specifications
⇒page 225, “Liquid coolant”. Do not use a different type of anti-freeze if
anti-freeze G12++ is not available. In this case, use only water and bring the
anti-freeze concentration back up to the correct level as soon as possible.
Always top up with new liquid coolant. Do not fill above the “max” mark. Excess liquid coolant is forced out of the
system through the valve in the filler cap when the engine gets hot.
If a lot of liquid coolant has been lost, wait for the engine to
cool down before
putting in cold coolant. Failure to do so could result in serious engine
damage.
WARNING
•The cooling system is under pressure. Do not unscrew the cap on the
expansion tank when the engine is hot. Failure to comply could result in
burns.•The anti-freeze and liquid coolant can be a health hazard. Therefore,
the anti-freeze should be stored in the original container in a safe place out
of reach of children. Failure to comply could result in poisoning.For the sake of the environment
Drained off coolant should not be used again. Drain off the used coolant into
a suitable container and dispose of it in the proper manner (observe environ-
mental regulations).Radiator fan
The radiator fan can start running spontaneously.The auxiliary fan can continue to run for as long as 10 minutes after stopping
the engine – even after the ignition is switched off. It may also start running
suddenly ⇒ after some while if•stored heat raises the coolant temperature, or•the hot engine compartment is additionally heated up by the sun.
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Checking and refilling levels229
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Technical Data
Changing windscreen wiper blades
If the windscreen wiper blades are in perfect condition, you
will benefit from an improved visibility. Damaged wiper
blades should be replaced immediately.
Removing the wiper blade
– Lift the wiper arm away from the windscreen.
– Slide the retainer catch on the wiper blade in the direction indi-
cated ⇒fig. 174 . Hold onto the wiper blade at the same time.
– Pull the wiper blade out of its mounting on the wiper arm.
Fitting the wiper blade
– Slide back the retainer catch on the new wiper blade. The mounting on the wiper blade should now be visible.
– Fit the new wiper blade into the mounting on the wiper arm ⇒fig. 175 .
– Slide the retainer catch on the wiper blade in direction so that it clicks into place on the wiper arm.
– Fold the wiper arm back down onto the glass.If the windscreen wipers smear , t h e y s h o u l d b e r e p la ce d i f t h e y a r e d a m a ge d ,
or cleaned if they are soiled.
If this does not produce the desired results, the setting angle of the wind-
screen wiper arms might be incorrect. They should be checked by a qualified
workshop and corrected if necessary.
WARNING
Do not drive unless you have good visibility through all windows!•The ignition must not be switched on while the front wiper arms are in
a raised position. The wipers would return to their park position and
damage the paintwork on the bonnet.
Fig. 174 Removing the
wiper bladeFig. 175 Fitting the wiper
blade
AAAB
AC
AD
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Checking and refilling levels231
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Topping up and changing the brake fluid
It is best to have the brake fluid changed by a professional.Brake fluid absorbs damp. Therefore, in the course of time it will absorb water
from the ambient air. If the water content in the brake fluid is too high, the
brake system could corrode. In addition, the boiling point of the brake fluid
will be considerably reduced. This could adversely affect the braking ability in
certain circumstances.
For this reason the brake fluid must be changed periodically.
Your vehicle's Service Schedule will tell you when the brake fluid has to be
renewed.
We recommend you have the brake fluid changed as part of a regular Inspec-
tion Service at your garage. They are familiar with the procedure and have the
necessary special tools and spare parts as well as the proper facilities for
disposing of the old fluid.
Use only the genuine brake fluid specified by the factory Specialist garages
know that the brake fluid -DOT 4- is factory approved. The brake fluid must be
new.
WARNING
•Therefore, it must always be kept closed in its original container. Keep
out of the reach of children. Failure to comply could result in poisoning.•Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid is left
in the system for too long. This would seriously affect the efficiency of the
brakes and the safety of the car, leading to the risk of accident.Caution
Please note that brake fluid will attack the paintwork on contact.
For the sake of the environment
If the fluid has to be drained out of the brake system, use an appropriate
container to catch the used brake fluid and dispose of it in the proper
manner.BatteryGeneral notes
All work on batteries requires specialist knowledge.The battery is virtually maintenance-free and is checked in the Inspection
Services.
We recommend that you replace a battery once it is older than 5 years.
Disconnecting the battery
If the battery is disconnected, some of the vehicle's functions will become
inoperative (e.g. electric windows). These functions will require resetting
after the battery is reconnected. For this reason, the battery should only be
disconnected from the vehicle's electrical system when absolutely necessary.
Long periods of non-use
The battery will gradually lose its charge because certain electrical equip-
ment continues to draw current even when the ignition is off. If you park the
vehicle for long periods of time in winter you should take the battery out of
the vehicle and keep it in a frost-proof room. Store the battery in a place
where it cannot “freeze up” and become damaged. At warm outside temper-
atures it is sufficient to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. Even
when the battery is not connected you should charge it from time to time.
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Technical Data
•A highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the battery is
under charge. The batteries should be charged in a well-ventilated room
only.•Keep children away from acid and batteries.•Before working on the electrical system, you must switch off the
engine, the ignition and all consumers. The negative cable on the battery
must be disconnected. When a light bulb is changed, you need only switch
off the light.•Deactivate the anti-theft alarm by unlocking the vehicle before you
disconnect the battery! The alarm will otherwise be triggered.•When disconnecting the battery from the vehicle electrical system,
disconnect first the negative cable and then the positive cable.•Switch off all electrical consumers before reconnecting the battery.
Reconnect first the positive cable and then the negative cable. Never
reverse the polarity of the connections. This could cause an electrical fire.•Never charge a frozen battery, or one which has thawed. This could
result in explosions and chemical burns. Always replace a battery which
has frozen. A flat battery can freeze at temperatures around 0°.•Ensure that the vent hose is always connected to the battery.•Never use a defective battery. This may be fatally explosive. Replace a
damaged battery immediately.Caution
•Never disconnect the battery if the ignition is switched on or if the engine
is running. This could damage the electrical system or electronic compo-
nents.•Do not expose the battery to direct sunlight over a long period of time, as
the intense ultraviolet radiation can damage the battery housing.•If the vehicle is left standing in cold conditions for a long period, protect
the battery from frost. If it “freezes” it will be damaged.
Charging the battery
A fully-charged battery is important for reliable starting.–Note the warnings ⇒ in “Important safety warnings for
handling a car battery” on page 232 and ⇒.
– Switch off the ignition and all electrical equipment.
– Only if “fast-charging”: both battery cables must be discon- nected (first the “negative” cable, then the “positive” cable).
– Connect the charger cables to the battery terminals, noting the colour code (red is used for “positive”, black or brown for “nega-
tive”).
– Now connect the battery charger to the power point and switch on.
– After charging the battery: switch off the battery charger and disconnect the power point cable.
– Finally disconnect the charger cables from the battery.
– If necessary, reconnect both battery cables to the battery (first the “positive” cable, then the “negative” cable).When charging with a low current (for instance with a small battery charger)
the battery does not normally have to be disconnected. However, both
battery cables must be disconnected before “ fast-charging” the battery with
a high current. However, always follow the instructions given by the manufac-
turer of the battery charger.
The fast-charging procedure for a battery is dangerous ⇒ in “Important
safety warnings for handling a car battery” on page 232, as it requires a
WARNING (continued)
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Wheels and tyres235
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Technical Data
Wheels and tyresWheelsGeneral notesAvoiding damage
– If you have to drive over a kerb or similar obstacle, drive very
slowly and as near as possible at a right angle to the kerb.
– Keep grease, oil and fuel off the tyres.
– Inspect the tyres regularly for da mage (cuts, cracks or blisters,
etc.). Remove any foreign objects embedded in the treads.
Storing tyres
– Mark tyres when you remove them to indicate the direction of rotation. This ensures you will be able to install them correctly
when you replace them.
– When removed, the wheels and/or tyres should be stored in a cool, dry and preferably dark location.
– Store tyres in a vertical position if they are not fitted on wheel
rims.New tyres
New tyres have to be run-in.
The tread depth of new tyres may vary, according to the type and make of tyre
and the tread pattern. Concealed damage
Damage to tyres and rims is often not readily visible. If you notice unusual
vibrations or the car pulling to one side, this may indicate that one of the tyres
is damaged. The tyres should be checked immediately by an Authorised
Service Centre.
Tyres with directional tread pattern
An arrow on the tyre sidewall indicates the direction of rotation on tyres with
directional tread. Always observe the direction of rotation indicated when
fitting the wheel. This guarantees optimum grip and helps to avoid aqua-
planing, excessive noise and wear.
WARNING
•New tyres do not have maximum grip in the first 500 km. Drive particu-
larly carefully to avoid risk of accident.•Never drive with damaged tyres. This may cause an accident.•If you notice unusual vibration or if the vehicle pulls to one side when
driving, stop the vehicle immediately and check the tyres for damage.
Checking tyre pressure
The correct tyre pressure can be seen on the sticker on the
inside of the tank flap.1. Read the required tyre inflatio n pressure from the sticker. The
values refer to Summer tyres. For Winter tyres, you must add 0.2
bar to the values given on the sticker.
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Technical Data
Significant tyre pressure lossThe tyre symbol
is displayed and indicates that the tyre pressure for a least
one tyre is insufficient.
- Stop the vehicle.
- Switch the engine off.
- Check the tyre(s).
- Change the wheel if necessary.
Tyre pressure monitoring (RKA+)*
The type pressure monitor display on the instrument panel
indicates that the pressure is too low.The tyre pressure monitoring system makes use of the ABS sensors to
compare the rolling circumference and the frequency characteristics of the wheels. If the rolling circumference or frequency characteristic changes on
one or more wheels, the tyre pressure warning lamp
will light up. The fault
will also be indicated by a warning buzzer. The position of the affected tyre
will also be shown (if only one tyre is affected) on the centre display of the
instrument panel.
The rolling circumference and frequency characteristics can change if:
•the tyre pressure is too low.•the tyre has suffered structural damage.•the wheels or the inflation pressures have been changed without initial-
ising the system (see Adjusting the tyre pressure settings).•there is a greater load on the wheels of one axle (e.g. if you are carrying
more passengers or luggage).•the road surface under the left wheels is different to the road surface
under the right wheels for a long period.•when driving with snow chains.
Adjusting the tyre pressure settings (initialising the tyre pressure
monitoring system)
After any incident regarding the wheels of your vehicle, e.g. after modify the
tyre pressure ⇒page 238 or after changing of swapping around wheels ⇒
page 180 - with the vehicle at a standstill and the engine running - press
⇒ fig. 177 . The yellow warning lamp
will light up. Hold the button down
for 2 seconds until the warning lamp goes out and an acoustic warning is
given. You can now release the button.
If the wheels are subjected to extremely stress (e.g. heavy load), the tyre pres-
sure must be increased to the recommended value for the maximum load
(see the adhesive label on the inside of the fuel tank flap) and then initialise
the system.
Tyre pressure warning lamp on
When you switch on the ignition, the tyre pressure warning lamp
will light
up for about 2 seconds. There is a fault in the system if the indicator stays on
permanently after switching on the ignition. The instrument panel also
Fig. 177 Detailed view of
the centre console: Button
for the tyre pressure
monitoring system
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Technical Data
Wear indicators
The original tyres on your vehicle have 1.6 mm high “tread wear indicators”
⇒
page 238, fig. 178 , running across the tread. Depending on the make,
there will be six to eight of them evenly spaced around the tyre. Markings on
the tyre sidewall (for instance the letters “TWI” or other symbols) indicate the
positions of the tread wear indicators. The minimum tread depth required by
law is 1.6 mm (measured in the tread grooves next to the tread wear indica-
tors). Worn tyres must be replaced. Different figures may apply in export
countries ⇒.
Tyre pressure
Under-inflation or over-inflation will reduce the life of the tyres considerably
and also impair the car's handling. The inflation pressures are listed on a
sticker on the inside of the fuel tank flap.
Correct inflation pressures are very important, especially at high speeds. The
pressure should therefore be checked at least once a month and before
starting any long journey.
Tyre pressure monitoring (RKA+ )*
Monitoring of the tyre pressures is based on the tyre pressures you have
stored. The tyre pressure monitoring system cannot function as intended if
you store tyre pressure settings for a normal load, but then drive with the
vehicle fully laden. The tyre pressure must be adapted to the actual load and
stored accordingly in the tyre pressure monitoring system ⇒page 237.
Driving style
Fast cornering, heavy acceleration and hard braking all increase tyre wear.
Changing wheels around
If the front tyres are worn considerably more than the rear ones it is advisable
to cha nge t he m ar oun d as sh own ⇒ page 238, fig. 179. All the tyres will then
last for about the same time. Wheel balance
The wheels on new vehicles are balanced. However, various factors encoun-
tered in normal driving can cause them to become unbalanced, which results
in steering vibration.
Unbalanced wheels should be rebalanced, as they otherwise cause excessive
wear on steering, suspension and tyres. A wheel must also be rebalanced
when a new tyre is fitted.
Incorrect wheel alignment
Incorrect wheel alignment causes excessive tyre wear, impairing the safety of
the vehicle. If tyres show excessive wear, you should have the wheel align-
ment checked by an Authorised Service Centre.
WARNING
There is a serious danger of accidents if a tyre bursts during driving!•The tyres must be replaced at the latest when the tread is worn down to
the tread wear indicators. Failure to do so could result in an accident. Worn
tyres do not grip well at high speeds on wet roads. There is also a greater
risk of “aquaplaning” •At continuously high speeds, a tyre with insufficient pressure flexes
more. This causes it to overheat. This can cause tread separation and tyre
blow-out. Risk of accident. Always observe the recommended tyre pres-
sures.•If tyres show excessive wear, you should have the running gear checked
by an Authorised Service Centre.•Keep chemicals such as oil, fuel and brake fluid away from tyres.•Damaged wheels and tyres must be replaced immediately!For the sake of the environment
Under-inflated tyres will increase fuel consumption.
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