2010 MERCEDES-BENZ S550 4MATIC ABS

Lane Keeping Assist
The Lane Keeping Assist supports you at a
vehicle speed of above 40 mph when you
have set the display unit to miles in the
Display Unit Speed-/Odometer: menu in
the control system (Y page 235). When you
have set the display unit to km, the system
supports you at a vehicle speed of above
60 km/h. When the Lane Keeping Assist
detects lane markings, the system is
designed to alert you in case you leave your
lane unintentionally. A warning is usually
issued when a front wheel is on the lane
marking. An interval vibration in the steering
wheel that lasts for up to 1.5 seconds will
then alert you.
The Lane Keeping Assist monitors the area in
front of your vehicle via camera :.
The system can distinguish various
conditions in order to alert you early enough
and to avoid unnecessary warnings when
crossing lane markings.
The warning is issued sooner when
Rcutting a curve on the outside of the turn
Rdriving on very wide lanes such as highway
lanes
Rthe system recognizes dividing lines
because crossing them is often crucial due
to soft shoulders or guardrails behind for
example
The warning is issued later however when
Rdriving on narrow lanes
Rcutting a curve on the inside of the turn
The system does not issue a warning when
Rsteering, braking, or accelerating in a
clearly active manner, e.g. when changing
lanes, passing, exiting a highway
Rcutting a narrow curve
Rmaking a very sharp turn
Ra driving safety system such as the ABS,
the BAS, or the ESC has been activated
When setting the turn signal in either
direction, the warning will be suppressed. The
system will issue a warning if a turn signal has
been on for an extended period of time.
GWarning!
The Lane Keeping Assist does not keep the
vehicle in the lane. The Lane Keeping Assist
is only an aid to the driver and may not always
recognize lane markings properly or fail to
recognize them at all.
The system may be impaired or unavailable
when
Rvisibility is poor, e.g. due to snow, rain, fog,
or heavy spray
Roncoming traffic, sun glare or reflection
from other vehicles
Rthe camera area of the windshield is dirty,
foggy, or otherwise obstructed
Rlane markings are not present
Rlane markings are worn, dark, or covered
e.g. by snow or dirt
Rthe distance to the preceding vehicle is too
short
Rwhen lane markings are ambiguous, for
example in road work sections
Rlane markings change rapidly, e.g. on
highway exits or turn-off lanes
Rlanes are narrow and winding
The Lane Keeping Assist cannot take road and
traffic conditions into account. It is the
driver’s responsibility at all times to be
attentive to road, weather and traffic
362Driving systemsControls in detail
221_AKB; 6; 20, en-USd2ugruen,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-24T13:28:17+02:00 - Seite 362

the “Technical data” section (Y page 532),
for example when purchasing new tires.
If you are uncertain about the correct reading
of the information given on a tire’s sidewall,
any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be
glad to assist you.
Load identification
iFor illustration purposes only. Actual data
on tires are specific to each vehicle and
may vary from data shown in above
illustration.
In addition to the load index, special load
identification : may be molded into the tire
sidewall following the letter designating the
speed symbol B (Y page 426).
RNo specification given: absence of any text
(like in above example) indicates a
standard load (SL) tire.
RXL or Extra Load: designates an extra load
(or reinforced) tire.
RLight Load: designates a light load tire.
RC, D, E: designates load range associated
with the maximum load a tire can carry at
a specified pressure.
DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)
U.S. tire regulations require each new tire
manufacturer or tire retreader to mold a TIN
into or onto a sidewall of each tire produced.
The TIN is a unique identifier. The TIN
facilitates efforts by tire manufactures to
notify purchasers in recall situations or other
safety matters concerning tires. It gives
purchasers the means to easily identify such
tires.
The TIN is comprised of “Manufacturer’s
identification mark” ;, “Tire size” =, “Tire
type code” ? and “Date of manufacture”
A.
iFor illustration purposes only. Actual data
on tires are specific to each vehicle and
may vary from data shown in above
illustration.
DOT (Department of Transportation)
Tire branding symbol : denotes that the tire
meets requirements of the U.S. Department
of Transportation.
Manufacturer’s identification mark
Manufacturer’s identification mark ;
denotes the tire manufacturer.
New tires have a mark with two symbols.
Retreaded tires have a mark with four
symbols. For more information on retreaded
tires, see (Y page 410).
Tire size
Code = indicates the tire size.
Tires and wheels429Operation221_AKB; 6; 20, en-USd2ugruen,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-24T13:28:17+02:00 - Seite 429Z

Always use winter tires at temperatures
below 45‡ (7†) and whenever wintry road
conditions prevail. Not all M+S rated tires
provide special winter performance. Make
sure the tires you use show the mountain/
snowflake imarking on the tire sidewall.
These tires meet specific snow traction
performance requirements of the Rubber
Manufacturers Association (RMA) and the
Rubber Association of Canada (RAC) and
have been designed specifically for use in
snow conditions. Use of winter tires is the
only way to achieve the maximum
effectiveness of your vehicle’s driving safety
systems such as the ABS and the ESC in
winter operation.
For safe handling, make sure all mounted
winter tires are of the same make and have
the same tread design.
For information on winter tires for your
vehicle model, see the “Technical data”
section ( Y page 532).
Always observe the speed rating of the winter
tires installed on your vehicle.
After installing winter tires:XCheck the tire inflation pressure and adjust
it if necessary ( Y page 413).XRestart the Advanced Tire Pressure
Monitoring System ( Y page 414).
Snow chains
! When driving with snow chains, always
select the raised level of the vehicle level
control. Other settings may result in
damage to your vehicle.
! Some tire sizes do not leave adequate
clearance for snow chains. To help avoid
serious damage to your vehicle or tires,
make sure the use of snow chains is
permissible as specified in the “Technical
data” section of this Operator’s Manual.
Snow chains should only be driven on snow-
covered roads at speeds not to exceed
30 mph (50 km/h). Remove chains as soon
as possible when driving on roads without
snow.
Observe the following guidelines when using
snow chains:
R Use of snow chains is not permissible with
all wheel/tire combinations ( Y page 532).
R Use snow chains in pairs and on rear
wheels only. Follow the manufacturer’s
mounting instructions.
! If snow chains are mounted to the front
wheels, they may scrape against the body
or axle components. The tires or the vehicle
could be damaged as a result.
R Only use snow chains that are approved by
Mercedes-Benz. Any authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center will be glad to advise you on
this subject.
R Use of snow chains may be prohibited
depending on location. Always check local
and state laws before installing snow
chains.
R Do not use snow chains on the spare wheel.
i When driving with snow chains, you may
wish to switch off the ESC ( Y page 232)
before setting the vehicle in motion. This
will improve the vehicle’s traction.
Winter driving instructions
GWarning!
If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow, make
sure snow is kept clear of the exhaust pipe
and from around the vehicle with the engine
running. Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide
(CO) gases may enter vehicle interior
resulting in unconsciousness and death.
To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, open
a window slightly on the side of the vehicle
not facing the wind.
Winter driving433Operation221_AKB; 6; 20, en-USd2ugruen,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-24T13:28:17+02:00 - Seite 433Z

GWarning!
The outside temperature indicator is not
designed to serve as an ice-warning device
and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose.
Indicated temperatures just above the
freezing point do not guarantee that the road
surface is free of ice. The road may still be icy,
especially in wooded areas or on bridges.
GWarning!
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.
The most important rule for slippery or icy
roads is to drive sensibly and to avoid abrupt
acceleration, braking and steering
maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control or
DISTRONIC PLUS system under such
conditions.
When the vehicle is in danger of skidding, shift
the automatic transmission to neutral
position N. Try to keep the vehicle under
control by corrective steering action.
i For information on driving with snow
chains, see “Snow chains” ( Y page 433).
Road salts and chemicals can adversely
affect braking efficiency. Increased pedal
force may become necessary to produce the
normal brake effect.
Depressing the brake pedal periodically when
traveling at length on salt-strewn roads can
bring road-salt-impaired braking efficiency
back to normal.
If the vehicle is parked after being driven on
salt-treated roads, the braking efficiency
should be tested as soon as possible after
driving is resumed.
GWarning!
Make sure not to endanger any other road
users when carrying out these braking
maneuvers.
Driving instructions
Drive sensibly – save fuel
To save fuel you should:
R Keep tires at the recommended inflation
pressures.
R Remove unnecessary loads.
R Remove roof rack when not in use.
R Allow engine to warm up under low load
use.
R Avoid frequent acceleration and
deceleration.
R Have all maintenance work performed at
the intervals specified in the Maintenance
Booklet and as required by the
Maintenance system. Contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
Fuel consumption is also increased by driving
in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic, on
short trips and in mountainous areas.
Drinking and driving
GWarning!
Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and
driving are very dangerous combinations.
Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can
affect your reflexes, perceptions and
judgment.
The possibility of a serious or even fatal
accident are greatly increased when you drink
or take drugs and drive.
Do not drink or take drugs and drive or allow
anyone to drive who has been drinking or
taking drugs.
Pedals
GWarning!
Make sure absolutely no objects are
obstructing the pedals’ range of movement.
Keep the driver’s footwell clear of all
434Driving instructionsOperation
221_AKB; 6; 20, en-USd2ugruen,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-24T13:28:17+02:00 - Seite 434

XTake the collapsible wheel chock from the
vehicle tool kit (Y page 450).
XSetting up: Tilt both plates upward :.XFold the lower plate outward ;.XGuide the tabs of the lower plate all the way
into the openings of base plate =.
For information on where to place wheel
chocks when changing a wheel, see “Lifting
the vehicle” (Y page 509).
Jack
GWarning!
Only use the jack supplied with your vehicle
to lift the vehicle briefly for wheel changes. If
you use the jack for any other purpose, you or
others could be injured, as the jack is
designed only for the purpose of changing a
wheel.
When using the jack, observe the safety notes
in the “Mounting the spare wheel” section and
the notes on the jack.
XTake the jack from the vehicle tool kit
(Y page 450).
Storage position
XTurn the crank handle in the direction of
arrow as far as it will go.
Operational position
XTurn the crank handle clockwise.
Before placing the jack back into the vehicle
tool kit:
XFully collapse the jack.XFold in the crank handle (storage position).
Spare wheel
GObserve Safety notes, see page 508.
The spare wheel is located in the space
underneath the trunk floor.
XRemoving: Open the trunk (Y page 279).XLift the trunk floor using the floor handle.XEngage the trunk floor handle on the upper
trunk lip.
! To prevent damage, always disengage the
floor handle from the upper trunk lip and
Where will I find ...?451Practical hints221_AKB; 6; 20, en-USd2ugruen,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-24T13:28:17+02:00 - Seite 451Z

Display messagesPossible causes/consequences and M Solutions$
(USA only)
J
(Canada
only)ABS and
ESC
Inoperativ
e See
Oper.
ManualIn addition, the yellow ESC warning lamp ÷, the yellow
ESC OFF warning lamp å, and the yellow ABS indicator
lamp ! come on.
The brake system is still functioning normally but due to a
malfunction, the ABS, the BAS, the BAS PLUS, the ESC, the
hill-start assist system, the HOLD function, the Adaptive
Brake Lights, the PRE-SAFE ®
system, and the PRE-SAFE ®
Brake are unavailable.
The ATTENTION ASSIST is disabled.XContinue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock
during hard braking, reducing steering capability.XAdjust driving to be consistent with reduced braking
responsiveness.XHave the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center as soon as possible.
Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an
accident.
$
(USA only)
J
(Canada
only)ABS and
ESC
Currently
Unavailabl
e See
Oper.
ManualIn addition, the yellow ESC warning lamp ÷, the yellow
ESC OFF warning lamp å, and the yellow ABS indicator
lamp ! come on.
The brake system is still functioning normally but temporarily
the ABS, the BAS, the BAS PLUS, the ESC, the hill-start assist
system, the HOLD function, the Adaptive Brake Lights, the
PRE-SAFE ®
system, and the PRE-SAFE ®
Brake are
unavailable.
The self-diagnosis may not be completed yet.
The ATTENTION ASSIST is disabled.XDrive a short distance with added caution at a vehicle speed
of above 12 mph (20 km/h).
When the message disappears, the ESC is available again.
If the message does not disappear:
XContinue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock
during hard braking, reducing steering capability.XAdjust driving to be consistent with reduced braking
responsiveness.XHave the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center as soon as possible.
Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an
accident.
Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display467Practical hints221_AKB; 6; 20, en-USd2ugruen,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-24T13:28:17+02:00 - Seite 467Z

Display messagesPossible causes/consequences and M Solutions$
(USA only)
J
(Canada
only)ABS and
ESC
Currently
Unavailabl
e See
Oper.
ManualIn addition, the yellow ESC warning lamp ÷, the yellow
ESC OFF warning lamp å, and the yellow ABS indicator
lamp ! come on.
The brake system still functions normally but due to
insufficient power supply, the ABS, the BAS, the BAS PLUS,
the ESC, the hill-start assist system, the HOLD function, the
Adaptive Brake Lights, the PRE-SAFE ®
system, and the
PRE-SAFE ®
Brake are unavailable.
The ATTENTION ASSIST is disabled.XContinue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock
during hard braking, reducing steering capability.XAdjust driving to be consistent with reduced braking
responsiveness.
When the voltage is above the required value again, the ABS,
the BAS, the BAS PLUS, the ESC, the hill-start assist system,
the HOLD function, the Adaptive Brake Lights, the
PRE-SAFE ®
system, and the PRE-SAFE ®
Brake are operational
again and the message should disappear.
If the message does not disappear:
XHave the alternator and the battery checked.
Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an
accident.
$
(USA only)
J
(Canada
only)EBR, ABS,
and ESC
Inoperativ
e See
Oper.
ManualIn addition, the yellow ESC warning lamp ÷, the yellow
ESC OFF warning lamp å, and the yellow ABS indicator
lamp ! come on and an acoustic warning sounds.
The brake system is still functioning normally but due to a
malfunction, the ABS, the BAS, the BAS PLUS, the EBP, the
ESC, the HOLD function, the Adaptive Brake Lights, the PRE-
SAFE ®
system, and the PRE-SAFE ®
Brake are unavailable.
The ATTENTION ASSIST is disabled.XContinue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock
during hard braking, reducing steering capability.XAdjust driving to be consistent with reduced braking
responsiveness.XHave the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center as soon as possible.
Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an
accident.
468Vehicle status messages in the multifunction displayPractical hints
221_AKB; 6; 20, en-USd2ugruen,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-24T13:28:17+02:00 - Seite 468

BrakeProblemPossible causes/consequences and M Solutions!The yellow ABS
indicator lamp
comes on while
the engine is
running.The brake system is still functioning normally but due to a
malfunction, the ABS, the BAS, the BAS PLUS, the ESC, the
hill-start assist system, the HOLD function, the Adaptive Brake
Lights, the PRE-SAFE ®
system, and the PRE-SAFE ®
Brake are
unavailable.
The ATTENTION ASSIST is disabled.XContinue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during
hard braking, reducing steering capability.XAdjust driving to be consistent with reduced braking
responsiveness.XRead and observe messages that may appear in the
multifunction display ( Y page 452).XHave the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center as soon as possible.
Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an
accident.
!The yellow ABS
indicator lamp
comes on while
the engine is
running.The brake system still functions normally but due to insufficient
power supply, the ABS, the BAS, the BAS PLUS, the ESC, the
hill-start assist system, the HOLD function, the Adaptive Brake
Lights, the PRE-SAFE ®
system, and the PRE-SAFE ®
Brake are
unavailable.
The ATTENTION ASSIST is disabled.
When the voltage is above the required value again, the ABS is
operational again. The ABS indicator lamp should go out.XContinue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during
hard braking, reducing steering capability.XAdjust driving to be consistent with reduced braking
responsiveness.XRead and observe messages that may appear in the
multifunction display ( Y page 452).XIf the ABS indicator lamp does not go out: Have the alternator
and the battery checked.490What to do if …Practical hints
221_AKB; 6; 20, en-USd2ugruen,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-24T13:28:17+02:00 - Seite 490