2012 MERCEDES-BENZ SL-CLASS ROADSTER winter tires

Reset button ................................ 30, 112
Restraint systems see Occupant safety
Retractable hardtop .......................... 155
Locking .......................................... 157
Luggage cover ............................... 158
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 241
Sunshade ....................................... 160
Wind screen ................................... 157
Rims ........................................... 206, 299
Roadside Assistance ................... 20, 169
Roll bar ................................................. 51
Lowering .......................................... 51
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 240
Raising ............................................. 51
Warning lamp ................................. 258
RON (Research Octane Number) ..... 307
Roof see Retractable hardtop
Rubber parts, cleaning ...................... 220
Run-flat tires see MOExtended tires
S
Safety
Driving safety systems .....................54
Occupant safety ............................... 38
Reporting defects ............................ 22
Safety belts
see Seat belts
Seat belt force limiter ......................... 49
Seat belts ............................................. 46
Automatic comfort-fit feature ..........49
Children in the vehicle .....................51
Cleaning ......................................... 220
Fastening ......................................... 48
Proper use of ................................... 47
Safety guidelines ............................. 40
Safety notes ..................................... 46
Telltale
.................................... 31, 32, 48, 256
Seat heating ......................................... 83
Seating capacity ................................ 194
Seats ..................................................... 80
Adjustment ...................................... 80
Easy-entry/exit feature ....................85
Heating ............................................ 83
Memory function .............................. 88
Multicontour seat ............................ 82
Ventilation ....................................... 82
Selective setting
see Key, SmartKey
Selector lever
see Gear selector lever
Self-test
OCS (Occupant Classification
System) ........................................... 45
Tele Aid .......................................... 167
Service
see Maintenance
Service, parts .................................... 294
Service and warranty information ..... 19
Service intervals see Maintenance System, Service
indicator message
Service life (tires) .............................. 198
Settings
Factory setting (KEYLESS-GO) .........71
Factory setting (SmartKey) ..............69
Memory function .............................. 88
Menu ............................................. 121
Selective setting (KEYLESS-GO) .......71
Selective setting (SmartKey) ............69
Side marker lamps
Cleaning lenses ............................. 218
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 250
Sidewall (tires) .................................. 207
Side windows see Power windows
SmartKey
see Key, SmartKey
SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO
see Key, SmartKey
Snow chains ...................................... 208
Snow tires see Winter tires
Spare wheel ....................................... 299
Mounting ....................................... 277
Storage location ............................ 225
Speedometer ..................................... 13514Index230_AKB; 6; 22, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-07-28T18:49:58+02:00 - Seite 14

Tire Identification Numbersee TIN
Tire inflation pressure
Checking ........................................ 189
Important notes on ........................188
Label on the inside of fuel filler
flap ................................................ 188
Placard on driver’s door B-pillar .....193
Tire labeling ....................................... 200
Tire load rating .................................. 206
Tire ply composition and material
used .................................................... 207
Tires ........................................... 186, 299
Advanced Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (Advanced
TPMS) ............................................ 190
Air pressure ................................... 187
Care and maintenance ...................197
Cleaning ......................................... 198
Direction of rotation, spinning .......197
Important notes on tire inflation
pressure ........................................ 188
Inflation pressure ........................... 189
Information placard .......................193
Inspection ...................................... 198
Labeling ......................................... 200
Load index ............................. 201, 206
Load rating .................................... 206
Messages in the multifunction
display ................................... 234, 253
MOExtended .................................. 300
Ply composition and material
used ............................................... 207
Problems under-/overinflation ......189
Retreads ........................................ 186
Rims and tires (technical data) ......299
Rotation ......................................... 200
Service life ..................................... 198
Sizes .............................................. 299
Snow chains .................................. 208
Speed rating .......................... 202, 207
Storing ........................................... 198
Temperature .......................... 188, 200
Terminology ................................... 205
Tire Identification Number .............207
TPMS low tire pressure/
malfunctiontelltale
.......................................... 31, 32, 265
Traction ................................. 199, 207
Tread ............................................. 207
Tread depth ........................... 198, 207
Treadwear ...................................... 199
Treadwear indicators .............198, 207
Vehicle maximum load on ..............207
Wear pattern .................................. 200
Winter tires ............................ 207, 299
Tire speed rating ....................... 202, 207
Total load limit ................................... 207
Tow-away alarm .................................. 64
Towing
Towing eye bolt .............................. 288
Vehicle ........................................... 287
Towing eye bolt ................................. 288
Traction ...................................... 199, 207
Transmission see Automatic transmission
Transmission fluid level .................... 184
Transmission gear selector lever see Gear selector lever
Transmission positions .................... 104
Traveling abroad ............................... 212
Tread (tires) ....................................... 207
Tread depth (tires) .................... 198, 207
Treadwear .......................................... 199
Treadwear indicators (tires) .... 198, 207
Trip computer menu ......................... 128
Trip odometer, resetting ................... 113
Trunk
Closing ............................................. 75
Load assist .................................... 164
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 241
Opening ........................................... 73
Opening/closing system ...........74, 76
Trunk lid emergency release ............77
Unlocking manually .......................268
Valet locking .................................... 77
Turning off the engine ...................... 102
Turn signals ......................................... 92
Cleaning lenses ............................. 218
Indicator lamps ................................ 3016Index230_AKB; 6; 22, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-07-28T18:49:58+02:00 - Seite 16

Windshield
Cleaning wiper blades .................... 219
Defogging ...................................... 153
Washer fluid ................................... 309
Wipers ............................................. 95
Windshield wipers
Replacing wiper blades ..................275
Winter driving
Instructions .................................... 208
Snow chains .................................. 208
Tires ............................................... 207
Winter tires ................................ 207, 299
Wood trims, cleaning ........................ 22118Index230_AKB; 6; 22, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-07-28T18:49:58+02:00 - Seite 18

they reach a height where a lap/shoulder belt
fits properly without a booster.
When the child restraint is not in use, remove
it from the vehicle or secure it with the seat
belt to prevent the child restraint from
becoming a projectile in the event of an
accident.
Panic alarm
Example illustration: SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO
XActivating: Press and hold !
button : for at least 1 second.
An audible alarm and flashing exterior
lamps will operate.
XDeactivating: Press ! button : again.
or
XInsert the SmartKey into the starter switch.
or
XPress the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button.
The SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO must be
inside the vehicle.
iUSA only:
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
2. this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Any unauthorized modification to this
device could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
iCanada only:
This device complies with RSS-210 of
Industry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
1.This device may not cause interference,
and
2. this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
Any unauthorized modification to this
device could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
Driving safety systems
Introduction
This section contains information about the
following driving safety systems:
RABS (Antilock Brake System)
RBAS (Brake Assist System)
RESP® (Electronic Stability Program)
RElectro-hydraulic brake system
iIn winter operation, the maximum
effectiveness of most of the driving
systems described in this section is only
achieved with winter tires, or snow chains
as required.
54Driving safety systemsSafety and security
230_AKB; 6; 22, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-07-28T18:49:58+02:00 - Seite 54

Vehicle equipment ............................178
The first 1000 miles (1500 km) .......178
At the gas station .............................178
Engine compartment ........................180
Tires and wheels ...............................186
Winter driving ...................................207
Driving instructions ..........................209
Maintenance ......................................213
Vehicle care .......................................215
177Operation230_AKB; 6; 22, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-07-28T18:49:58+02:00 - Seite 177

The brake fluid level is correct when it is
between lower mark (MIN) ; and upper
mark (MAX) : of the brake fluid reservoir.
Tires and wheels
Safety notes
Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center
for information on tested and recommended
rims and tires for summer and winter
operation. They can also offer advice
concerning tire service and purchase.
GWarning!
Replace rims or tires with the same
designation, manufacturer and type as shown
on the original part. For further information
contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
If incorrectly sized rims and tires are
mounted, the wheel brakes or suspension
components can be damaged. Also, the
operating clearance of the wheels and the
tires may no longer be correct.
GWarning!
Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire
tread is worn to minimum tread depth, or if
the tires have sustained damage, replace
them.
When replacing rims, only use genuine
Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the
particular rim type. Failure to do so can result
in the bolts loosening and possibly an
accident.
Retreaded tires are not tested or
recommended by Mercedes-Benz, since
previous damage cannot always be
recognized on retreads. The operating safety
of the vehicle cannot be assured when such
tires are used.
GWarning!
If you feel a sudden significant vibration or
ride disturbance, or you suspect that possible
damage to your vehicle has occurred, you
should turn on the hazard warning flashers,
carefully slow down, and drive with caution to
an area which is a safe distance from the road.
Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody
for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires
appear unsafe, have the vehicle towed to the
nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or
tire dealer for repairs.GWarning!
Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects
the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You
could lose control of the vehicle. Continued
driving with a flat tire or driving at high speed
with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-
up and possibly a fire.
Important guidelines
R Only use sets of tires and rims of the same
type and make.
R Tires must be of the correct size for the rim.
R Break in new tires for approximately
60 miles (100 km) at moderate speeds.
R Regularly check the tires and rims for
damage. Dented or bent rims can cause tire
inflation pressure loss and damage to the
tire beads.
R If the vehicle is heavily loaded, check tire
inflation pressure and correct as required.
R Do not allow your tires to wear down too
far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are
sharply reduced at tread depths of less
than 1
/ 8 in (3 mm).
R When replacing individual tires, you should
mount new tires on the front wheels first
(on vehicles with same-sized wheels all
around).
186Tires and wheelsOperation
230_AKB; 6; 22, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-07-28T18:49:58+02:00 - Seite 186

Tire inspection
Every time you check the tire inflation
pressure, you should also inspect your tires
for the following:
Rexcessive treadwear (Y page 198)
Rcord or fabric showing through the tire’s
rubber
Rbumps, bulges, cuts, cracks or splits in the
tread or side of the tire
Replace the tire if you find any of the above
conditions.
Make sure you also inspect the spare tire
periodically for condition and inflation. Spare
tires will age and become worn over time even
if never used, and thus should be inspected
and replaced when necessary.
Life of tire
GWarning!
Tires and spare tire should be replaced after
6 years, regardless of the remaining tread.
The service life of a tire is dependent upon
varying factors including but not limited to:
RDriving style
RTire inflation pressure
RDistance driven
Tread depth
GWarning!
Although the applicable federal motor vehicle
safety laws consider a tire to be worn when
the treadwear indicators (TWI) become visible
at approximately 1/16 in (1.6 mm), we
recommend that you do not allow your tires
to wear down to that level. As tread depth
approaches 1/8 in (3 mm), the adhesion
properties on a wet road are sharply reduced.
Depending upon the weather and/or road
surface (conditions), the tire traction varies
widely.
Do not allow your tires to wear down too far.
Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply
reduced at tread depths of less than 1/8 in
(3 mm).
Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by
law. These indicators are located in six places
on the tread circumference and become
visible at a tread depth of approximately1/16 in (1.6 mm), at which point the tire is
considered worn and should be replaced.
The recommended minimum tire tread depth
for summer tires is 1/8 in (3 mm). The
recommended minimum tire tread depth for
winter tires is 1/6 in (4 mm).
Treadwear indicator : appears as a solid
band across the tread.
Storing tires
! Keep unmounted tires in a cool, dry place
with as little exposure to light as possible.
Protect tires from contact with oil, grease
and fuels.
Cleaning tires
! Never use a round nozzle to power wash
tires. The intense jet of water can result in
damage to the tire.
Always replace a damaged tire.
198Tires and wheelsOperation
230_AKB; 6; 22, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-07-28T18:49:58+02:00 - Seite 198

Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards
The Uniform Tire Quality Grading is a U.S.
Government requirement designed to give
drivers consistent and reliable information
regarding tire performance. Tire
manufacturers are required to grade tires
based on three performance factors:
treadwear :, traction ;, and temperature
resistance =. Although not a Government of
Canada requirement, all tires made for sale in
North America have these grades branded on
the sidewall.
iFor illustration purposes only. Actual data
on tires are specific to each vehicle and
may vary from data shown in above
illustration.
Quality grades can be found, where
applicable, on the tire sidewall between tread
shoulder and maximum section width. For
example:
TreadwearTractionTemperature200AAA
All passenger car tires must conform to
federal safety requirements in addition to
these grades.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified
U.S. Government test course. For example, a
tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half
(1 1/2) times as well on the government
course as a tire graded 100.
The relative performance of tires depends
upon the actual conditions of their use,
however, and may depart significantly from
the norm due to variations in driving habits,
service practices and differences in road
characteristics and climate.
Traction
GWarning!
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on straight-ahead braking traction
tests, and does not include acceleration,
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction
characteristics.
The traction grades, from highest to lowest,
are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent
the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as
measured under controlled conditions on
specified government test surfaces of asphalt
and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor
traction performance.
GWarning!
If ice has formed on the road, tire traction will
be substantially reduced. Under such weather
conditions, drive, steer and brake with
extreme caution.
The safe speed on a wet, snow covered or icy
road is always lower than on a dry road.
You should pay particular attention to the
condition of the road whenever the outside
temperature is close to the freezing point.
Mercedes-Benz recommends winter tires
(Y page 207) with a minimum tread depth of
approximately 1/6 in (4 mm) on all four wheels
for the winter season to ensure normal
balanced handling characteristics. On
packed snow, they can reduce your stopping
distance compared to summer tires.
Stopping distance, however, is still
considerably greater than when the road is
Tires and wheels199Operation230_AKB; 6; 22, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-07-28T18:49:58+02:00 - Seite 199Z