Problems with the "cooling with air
dehumidification" function
If the indicator lamp in the ¿ button does
not go out when switched off, the cooling with
air dehumidification function is switched off
due to a malfunction. You can no longer
activate the cooling with air dehumidification
function.
XConsult a qualified specialist workshop.
Setting climate control to automatic
GWarning
If you switch off the cooling function, the
vehicle will not be cooled when weather
conditions are warm. The windows can fog up
more quickly. Window fogging may impair
visibility and endanger you and others.
In automatic mode, the set temperature is
maintained automatically at a constant level.
The system automatically regulates the
temperature of the dispensed air, the airflow
and the air distribution.
Automatic mode will achieve optimal
operation if cooling with air dehumidification
is also activated. If desired, cooling with air
dehumidification can be deactivated.
XTurn the SmartKey to position 2 in the
ignition lock.XSet the desired temperature.XTo activate: press the à button.
The indicator lamp above the à button
lights up. Automatic air distribution and
airflow are activated.X3-zone automatic climate control: press
switch G up or down and select the
desired level ( Y page 135).FOCUSAir flow high/air distribution via
the center and side ventsMEDIUMAir flow medium/air distribution
via the center and side ventsDIFFUSEAir flow low/air distribution via the
center, side and defroster ventsi This setting is especially effective in
automatic mode when outside
temperatures are high.XTo deactivate: press the air distribution
button.
Dual-zone automatic climate control: press
button F (Y page 133).
3-zone automatic climate control: press
button I (Y page 135).
The indicator lamp above the à button
goes out.
or
XPress the airflow button.
Dual-zone automatic climate control: press
button G (Y page 133).
3-zone automatic climate control: press
button H (Y page 135).
The indicator lamp above the à button
goes out.
Setting the temperature
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Different temperatures can be set for the
driver's and front-passenger sides.
XTurn the SmartKey to position 2 in the
ignition lock.XTo increase/reduce: press button E or
H up or down ( Y page 133).
Only change the temperature setting in
small increments. Start at 72 ‡ (22 †).Operating the control systems139Climate controlBA 212 USA, CA Edition B 2011; 1; 5, en-USdimargiVersion: 3.0.3.62010-05-20T13:33:46+02:00 - Seite 139Z
GWarning
It is dangerous to shift the automatic
transmission out of parking position P or
neutral position N if the engine speed is
higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly
on the brake pedal, the vehicle could
accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You
could lose control of the vehicle and hit
someone or something. Only shift into gear
when the engine is idling normally and when
your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.
! Warm up the engine quickly. Do not use
the engine's full performance until it has
reached operating temperature.
Only shift the automatic transmission to
the desired drive position when the vehicle
is stationary.
Where possible, avoid spinning the drive
wheels when pulling away on slippery
roads. You could otherwise damage the
drive train.
! AMG vehicles: at low engine oil
temperatures (below 68 ‡ (+20 †), the
maximum engine speed is restricted in
order to protect the engine. To protect the
engine and maintain smooth engine
operation, avoid driving at full throttle when
the engine is cold.
SmartKey positions
SmartKey
gTo remove the SmartKey(shift the transmission to position P)1Power supply for some consumers, such
as the windshield wipers2Ignition (power supply for all consumers)
and drive position3To start the engine
Once the ignition is switched on, all the
indicator lamps in the instrument cluster light
up. The indicator lamps of the low-beam
headlamps, high-beam headlamps, turn
signal lamps or front fog lamps only light up
if the low-beam headlamps, high-beam
headlamps, turn signal lamps or front fog
lamps are switched on. If an indicator lamp
does not light up when the ignition is switched
on, check it and replace it if necessary. If an
indicator lamp does not go out after starting
the engine or lights up while the vehicle is in
motion, see ( Y page 263).
If the SmartKey is in position 0 in the ignition
lock for an extended period of time, it can no
longer be turned in the ignition lock. The
steering is then locked. To unlock, remove the
SmartKey and reinsert it in the ignition lock.
The steering is locked when you remove the
SmartKey from the ignition lock.
XRemove the SmartKey when the engine is
switched off.
The battery may otherwise discharge.
If you cannot turn the SmartKey in the ignition
lock, the vehicle battery may not be charged
sufficiently.
XCheck the vehicle battery and charge if
necessary ( Y page 340).
or
XJump-start the vehicle ( Y page 341).
i
The SmartKey can be turned in the
ignition lock even if it is not the correct
SmartKey for the vehicle. The ignition is not
switched on. The engine cannot be started.
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ProblemPossible causes/consequences and M SolutionsThe fuel filler flap is unlocked, but the opening mechanism is
jammed.XManually unlock the fuel filler flap using the emergency release
( Y page 164).XConsult a qualified specialist workshop.The engine will not
start.The fuel tank of a vehicle with a diesel engine has been run
completely dry.XRefuel the vehicle with at least 5.3 US qt (5 liters) of diesel.XTurn the ignition on for at least 10 seconds ( Y page 149).XStart the engine continuously for up to 10 seconds until it runs
smoothly.
orXStart the engine via the touch-start function. To do this, turn the
Smartkey to position 3 ( Y page 149) in the ignition lock and then
release it immediately.
If the engine does not start:
XTurn the ignition on again for approximately 10 seconds
( Y page 149).XStart the engine again continuously for up to 10 seconds until
it runs smoothly.
orXStart the engine again via the touch-start function.
If the engine does not start after three attempts:
XConsult a qualified specialist workshop.DEF
Important notes on use
BlueTEC exhaust gas aftertreatment 19
must
be operated with AdBlue ®
reducing agent in
order to function properly. Adding AdBlue ®
is
one of the tasks performed during
maintenance. Under normal operating
conditions, a tank of AdBlue ®
lasts until the
next service due date.
When the AdBlue ®
supply has almost run out,
the Check Additive See Operator's
Manual message is shown in the
multifunction display.
When the AdBlue ®
supply sinks to a minimum
level, the Remaining Starts: 20 message
is shown in the multifunction display.
i When the Remaining Starts: 20
message is shown in the multifunction
display, you can start the engine 20 more
times. If AdBlue ®
is not topped up, it is then
not possible to start the engine again. Top
up the AdBlue ®
tank with approximately
1 gallon (3.8 l) AdBlue ®
or have the
AdBlue ®
tank refilled at a qualified19 Only on BlueTEC vehicles.Refueling167Driving and parkingBA 212 USA, CA Edition B 2011; 1; 5, en-USdimargiVersion: 3.0.3.62010-05-20T13:33:46+02:00 - Seite 167Z
specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
Use the special AdBlue ®
refill bottle when
adding between maintenance intervals. For
more information, please contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or
Roadside Assistance if applicable
( Y page 21).
Further information about BlueTEC exhaust
gas aftertreatment and AdBlue ®
is available
at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
Adding AdBlue ®GWarning!
Make sure
R AdBlue ®
does not come into contact with
skin, eyes, or clothing
R to keep AdBlue ®
out of the reach of children
If you and/or others have come into contact
with AdBlue ®
:
R If AdBlue ®
has gotten into contact with
eyes, flush with plenty of water immediately
and seek medical help.
R Clean affected skin immediately with plenty
of water.
R If AdBlue ®
was swallowed, rinse mouth
immediately with plenty of water and drink
plenty of water. Consult a physician.
GWarning!
When opening the filler cap of the AdBlue ®
tank ammonia gas vapors may escape. Refill
AdBlue ®
in a well ventilated area only.
Ammonia gas vapors have a pungent odor and
are particularly irritating for your skin,
mucous membranes, and eyes. Inhaling
ammonia gas vapors will cause burning eyes,
nose, and throat, as well as coughing and
watering eyes.
! Only use AdBlue ®
that complies with
ISO 22241. Do not add any special
additives to AdBlue ®
and do not thin
AdBlue ®
with water. This could destroy the
BlueTEC exhaust gas aftertreatment.
! Rinse surfaces that have come into
contact with AdBlue ®
immediately with
water or remove AdBlue ®
using a damp
cloth and cold water. If the AdBlue ®
has
already crystallized, use a sponge and cold
water to clean it. AdBlue ®
residues
crystallize after time and contaminate the
affected surfaces.
! AdBlue ®
is not a additive and must not be
added to the diesel tank. If AdBlue ®
is
added to the diesel tank this could damage
the engine.
i If you are adding between maintenance
intervals, add approximately 1 gallon (3.8 l)
of AdBlue ®
to the AdBlue ®
tank. 1 gallon
(3.8 l) of AdBlue ®
is approximately
2 AdBlue ®
refill bottles.
Further information about
AdBlue ®
(Y page 390).
The AdBlue ®
filler neck is under the trunk
floor.XSwitch off the ignition.XOpen the trunk.XLift the trunk floor ( Y page 285).XTurn AdBlue ®
cap : anti-clockwise and
remove it.168RefuelingDriving and parking
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Drive sensibly – save fuel
To save fuel, observe the following notes:
XKeep tires at the recommended inflation
pressures.XRemove unnecessary cargo.XRemove the roof rack when not in use.XMaintain a low engine speed until the
engine is warm.XAvoid frequent acceleration and
deceleration.XHave all maintenance work performed at
the service intervals specified in the
Service Booklet or indicated by the service
interval indicator.
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
obstacles. If there are any floormats or
carpets in the footwell, make sure that the
pedals still have sufficient clearance.
During sudden driving or braking maneuvers,
the objects could get caught between the
pedals. You could then no longer brake or
accelerate. This could lead to accidents and
injury.
Coasting with the engine switched offGWarning!
There is no power assistance for the steering
and the brake when the engine is not running.
Steering and braking requires significantly
more effort and you could lose control of the
vehicle and cause an accident as a result.
Do not turn off the engine while the vehicle is
in motion.
Exhaust check
GWarning
Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your
health. All exhaust gas contains carbon
monoxide (CO), and inhaling it can cause
unconsciousness and possible death.
Do not run the engine in confined areas (such
as a garage) which are not properly ventilated.
If you think that exhaust gas fumes are
entering the vehicle while driving, have the
cause determined and corrected
immediately. If you must drive under these
conditions, drive only with at least one
window fully open at all times.
Certain engine systems are designed to keep
the level of poisonous components in exhaust
fumes within legal limits.
These systems only work optimally if they are
maintained exactly in accordance with the
manufacturer's specifications. For this
reason, all work on the engine must be carried
out by qualified and authorized Mercedes-
Benz technicians.
The engine settings must not be changed in
any circumstances. Furthermore, all specific
service work must be carried out at regular
intervals and in accordance with the
Mercedes-Benz service requirements. Details
can be found in the Service Booklet.
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Engine oil
! Vehicles with a diesel particle filter:
If the vehicle is mostly driven for short
distances, it is possible that malfunctions
may occur during the automatic cleaning of
the diesel particle filter. This can lead to
engine damage. Therefore, if you frequently
drive short distances, make sure to drive
on highways or inter-urban roads for 20
minutes at least every 310 miles (500 km).
Brakes
Important safety notes
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.
GWarning
Make sure that you do not endanger other
road users when you apply the brakes.
Downhill gradients
! On long and steep gradients, you must
reduce the cargo on the brakes by shifting
to a lower gear in good time. This allows
you to take advantage of engine braking
and helps you to avoid overheating the
brakes and wearing them out excessively.
When you take advantage of engine
braking, a drive wheel may not turn for
some time, e.g. on a slippery road surface.
This could cause damage to the drive train.
Such damage is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz warranty.
Heavy and light loadsGWarning
Depressing the brake pedal constantly results
in excessive and premature wear to the brake
pads.
It may also cause the brakes to overheat,
seriously impairing their effectiveness. It may
then not be possible to stop the vehicle in
sufficient time to avoid an accident.
If the brakes have been subjected to a heavy
cargo, do not stop the vehicle immediately,
but drive on for a short while. This allows the
airflow to cool the brakes more quickly.
Wet roads
GWarning
After driving in heavy rain for some time
without applying the brakes or through water
deep enough to wet brake components, the
first braking action may be somewhat
reduced. You have to depress the brake pedal
more firmly. Maintain a safe distance from
vehicles in front.
After driving on a wet road or having the
vehicle washed, brake firmly while paying
attention to the traffic conditions. This will
warm up the brake discs, thereby drying them
more quickly and protecting them against
corrosion.
Limited braking performance on salt
treated roads
GWarning
The layer of salt on the brake discs and the
brake pads/linings may cause a delay in the
braking effect, resulting in a significantly
longer braking distance, which could lead to
an accident.
To avoid this danger, you should:
R occasionally brake carefully, without
putting other road users at risk, when you
are driving on salted roads. This helps to
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remove any salt that may have started to
build up on the brake discs and the brake
pads/linings.
R maintain a greater distance to the vehicle
ahead and drive with particular care.
R carefully apply the brakes at the end of a
trip and immediately after commencing a
new trip, so that salt residues are removed
from the brake discs.
Servicing the brakes
! If the red brake warning lamp lights up in
the instrument cluster and you hear a
warning tone while the engine is running,
the brake fluid level may be too low.
Observe additional warning messages in
the multifunction display.
The brake fluid level may be too low due to
brake pad wear or leaking brake lines.
Have the brake system checked
immediately. This work should be carried
out at an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center.
All checks and maintenance work on the
brake system must be carried out at a
qualified specialist workshop. This work
should be carried out at an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
Only install brake pads and use brake fluid
recommended by Mercedes-Benz.
GWarning
If other than recommended brake pads are
installed, or other than recommended brake
fluid is used, the braking properties of the
vehicle can be degraded to an extent that safe
braking is substantially impaired. This could
result in an accident.
! Vehicles with 4MATIC: a function or
performance test may only be carried out
on a two-axle dynamometer. If you are
planning to have the vehicle tested on such
a dynamometer, contact an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center to obtain further
information first. Otherwise, the drive train
or the brake system may suffer damage.
! Vehicles with 4MATIC: as the ESP®
system operates automatically, the engine
and the ignition must be switched off
(SmartKey in position 0 or 1 in the ignition
lock or Start/Stop button in position 0 or
1 ) while the parking brake is being tested
on a brake dynamometer.
Braking maneuvers triggered automatically
by ESP ®
may seriously damage the brake
system.
! Vehicles with 4MATIC: as the ESP®
system operates automatically, the engine
and the ignition system must be switched
off (SmartKey in position 0 or 1 in the
ignition lock or Start/Stop button in
position 0 or 1) when:
R testing the parking brake on a brake
dynamometer.
R you intend to have the vehicle towed with
one of the axles raised.
Braking maneuvers triggered automatically
by ESP ®
may seriously damage the brake
system.
If your brake system is only subjected to
moderate loads, you should regularly test
your brake system's function by forcefully
depressing the brake pedal when driving at
high speed. This will give the brake pads
better grip.GWarning
Make sure that you do not endanger other
road users when you apply the brakes.
A description of Brake Assist (BAS) can be
found on ( Y page 66) or of BAS PLUS on
( Y page 66).
AMG high-performance brake system
and ceramic brake system
The high-performance and ceramic brake
system is only installed on the E 63 AMG.
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GWarning
New vehicle brake pads and discs, and
replacement brake pads and discs may take
several hundred miles of driving until they
provide optimum braking efficiency. Until that
time, you may need to use increased brake
pedal pressure while braking. Please be aware
of this and adjust your driving and braking
accordingly during this break-in period.
Excessive high-demand braking will cause
correspondingly high brake wear. Please be
attentive to the brake warning lamp in the
instrument cluster and brake condition
messages in the multifunction display.
Especially for high performance driving, it is
important to maintain and have the brake
system checked regularly.
The wear of individual components of the
brake system, such as the brake pads/linings
or brake discs, depends on the individual
driving style and operating conditions.
Driving on wet roads
Hydroplaning
If water has accumulated to a certain depth
on the road surface, there is a danger of
hydroplaning occurring, even if:
R you drive at low speeds
R the tires have adequate tread depth
For this reason, in the event of heavy rain or
in conditions in which hydroplaning can occur
you must drive in the following manner:
R Lower your speed
R Avoid ruts
R Brake carefully
Driving on flooded roads
! Do not drive through flooded areas.
Check the depth of any water before driving
through it. Drive slowly through standing
water. Otherwise, water may enter the
vehicle interior or the engine compartment.
This can damage the electronic
components in the engine or the automatic
transmission. Water can also be drawn in
by the engine's air suction nozzles and this
can cause engine damage.
Winter driving
General information
Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified
specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center, at the onset of
winter.
Observe the notes in the "Winter operation"
section ( Y page 176).
i Vehicles with a diesel engine: do not
cover the radiator, e.g. with a protective
cover. The measuring function of the
Onboard Diagnosis System may otherwise
provide inaccurate values. Some of these
values are required by law and must
therefore always be accurate.
Winter tires
At temperatures below 45 ‡(+7 †), use
winter tires or all-season tires. Both types of
tire are identified by the M+S marking.
Only winter tires also bearing the i
snowflake symbol next to the M+S marking
provide the best possible grip in wintry road
conditions. Only these tires will allow driving
safety systems such as ABS and ESP ®
to
function optimally in winter, as these tires
have been designed specifically for driving on
snow.
Use M+S tires of the same make and tread on
all wheels to maintain safe handling
characteristics.
GWarning
M+S tires with a tread depth of less than 1
/ 6
inch (4 mm) must be replaced. They are no
longer suitable for winter operation.
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