X
Always transport loads in the cargo com-
partment and with the seat backrests folded
up and properly locked in position.
X Always place the load against the backrests
of the front or rear seats.
X Move large and heavy loads as far towards
the front of the vehicle as possible against
the front or rear seats. Stow the load flush
with the rear or front seats.
X Always additionally secure the load with
suitable load-securing aids or tie downs.
Observe the following notes:
R Do not stack loads higher than the upper
edge of the backrests.
R Transport loads behind seats that are not
occupied.
R If the rear bench seat is not occupied, insert
the seat belts crosswise into the buckle of
the opposite seat belt. Cargo compartment variations
You can vary the cargo compartment accord-
ing to your transportation requirements as fol-
lows:
R by folding the seat backrests forward to the
table position.
R by removing the rear bench seat.
You will find information about rear bench
seats in the "Rear bench seats" section
( Y page
89). Securing loads
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
If you attach the tie-down incorrectly when
securing the load, the following may occur in
the event of abrupt changes in direction,
braking maneuvers or an accident:
R the cargo tie-down rings may become
detached or the tie-down may tear if the
permissible load is exceeded
R the load may not be restrained. This may cause the load to slip, tip over or
be tossed about, striking vehicle occupants.
There is a risk of an accident and injury.
Always tension the tie-downs in the proper
manner and only between the described
cargo tie-down rings. Always use tie-downs
designed specifically for the loads.
! Observe the information on the maximum
loading capacity of the individual cargo tie-
down points.
If you use several cargo tie-down points to
secure a load, you must always take the
maximum loading capacity of the weakest
cargo tie-down point into account.
If you brake hard, for example, the forces
acting could be up to several times the
weight force of the load. Always use multi-
ple cargo tie-down points in order to distrib-
ute the force absorption. Load the ancho-
rages evenly.
As the driver, you are responsible for ensuring
that: R The load is secured against slipping, tipping,
rolling or falling off in normal traffic condi-
tions, should the vehicle swerve to avoid an
obstacle, in the event of maximum full-stop
braking and on poor road surfaces
R The applicable requirements and guidelines
relating to load-securing practices are met
If this is not the case, this may constitute a
punishable offense, depending on local leg-
islation and any ensuing consequences.
Always observe the legal requirements for
the country you are currently in.
Make sure that the load is secure before every
journey and at regular intervals during a long
journey. Correct an incorrectly or inadequately
secured load if necessary.
Always observe the operating instructions or
the notes of the lashing strap manufacturer for
the operation of the lashing strap.
You can obtain information about securing the
load correctly from the manufacturer of the
load securing aids or tie down for securing the
load. Also observe the safety information in
the loading directions ( Y page 242).
X Fill spaces between the load and the cargo
compartment walls or wheel housings (form-244
Securing loads
Transporting loads
Lashing straps
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
If you attach the tie-down incorrectly when
securing the load, the following may occur in
the event of abrupt changes in direction,
braking maneuvers or an accident:
R the cargo tie-down rings may become
detached or the tie-down may tear if the
permissible load is exceeded
R the load may not be restrained.
This may cause the load to slip, tip over or
be tossed about, striking vehicle occupants.
There is a risk of an accident and injury.
Always tension the tie-downs in the proper
manner and only between the described
cargo tie-down rings. Always use tie-downs
designed specifically for the loads.
! Observe the information on the maximum
loading capacity of the individual cargo tie-
down points.
If you use several cargo tie-down points to
secure a load, you must always take the
maximum loading capacity of the weakest
cargo tie-down point into account.
If you brake hard, for example, the forces
acting could be up to several times the
weight force of the load. Always use multi-
ple cargo tie-down points in order to distrib-
ute the force absorption. Load the ancho-
rages evenly.
Always observe the operating instructions or
the notes of the lashing strap manufacturer for
the operation of the lashing strap.
Securing loads on the cargo compartment
floor by lashing them down is only recommen-
ded for lightweight loads. Place non-slip mats
(anti-slip mats) under the load to increase load
security. Notes and information on:
R the operation of the cargo tie-down rings
and cargo tie-down points can be found in
the "Securing a load" section
(Y page 244)
R the maximum loading capacity of the cargo
tie-down points can be found in the "Techni-
cal data" section ( Y page 313)
R the maximum loading capacity of the lashing
strap can be found on the lashing strap label
If the label is missing or illegible, the lashing
strap is ready to be discarded. Such a lash-
ing strap must be removed from use. If stickers have been included in the delivery:
X Clean the surface before sticker : is
affixed.
The stickers must be affixed to a flat, metal-
lic surface free from grease and dust.
X Affix stickers : on every side of the vehicle
in close proximity to the loading rails in a
clearly visible location. 246
Lashing straps
Transporting loads
X
Hold support strut ? and lift the hood
slightly.
X Guide support strut ? towards retainer =
and apply slight pressure to make it engage.
X Lower the hood and allow it to fall with
momentum from a height of approximately
1 ft (30 cm
).
The hood locks audibly.
X Check that the hood is correctly locked.
If the hood can be raised slightly, it is not
properly engaged. If the hood is not cor-
rectly engaged, open the hood again. Let
the hood fall with a little more momentum. Overview of the engine compart-
ment
Engine compartment (example)
:
Engine oil filler neck cap (Y page
252)
; Brake fluid reservoir cap (Y page
255)
= Coolant expansion tank cap ( Y page
253)
? Washer fluid reservoir cap (Y page
256)
Regularly check the fluid level and the assem-
bly for leaks. If you detect fluid loss, e.g. oil
stains on the vehicle parking space, consult a
qualified specialist workshop immediately. Engine oil
General notes !
Engine oil gets dirty in the course of opera-
tion and its quality and volume are gradually
diminished. Regularly check the oil level,
and top up or have it replaced as needed.
Observe the information on approved engine
oils and oil consumption under "Service prod-
ucts and capacities" ( Y page
308).You can check the oil level in the engine:
R with the oil dipstick
Checking the oil level using the oil dip-
stick G
WARNING
Opening the hood when the engine is over-
heated or when there is a fire in the engine
compartment could expose you to hot gases
or other service products. There is a risk of
injury.
Let an overheated engine cool down before
opening the hood. If there is a fire in the
engine compartment, keep the hood closed
and contact the fire department. G
WARNING
Certain components in the engine compart-
ment, such as the engine, radiator and parts
of the exhaust system, can become very
hot. Working in the engine compartment
poses a risk of injury.
Where possible, let the engine cool down
and touch only the components described in
the following. Oil dipstick and engine oil filler neck
Only check the oil level when the engine is at
normal operating temperature. X Stop your vehicle as far away from traffic as
possible on level ground.
X Secure the vehicle to prevent it from rolling
away.
X Switch off the engine.
X Wait for five minutes.252
Engine compartment
Maintenance and care
X
Turn cap : further and remove it from cool-
ant expansion tank ;.
X Check the coolant level.
If the coolant is up to marker bar =
in the
filler neck when cold, there is a sufficient
amount of coolant in coolant expansion
tank ;.
If the coolant is approximately 0.59 in
(1.5 cm) above marker bar = in the filler
neck when warm, there is a sufficient
amount of coolant in coolant expansion
tank ;.
Adding coolant X If the coolant drops under marker bar = in
the filler neck, add coolant.
Observe the information on the correct cool-
ant mixture ratio and the required water
quality under "Service products and capaci-
ties" ( Y page
310). To prevent damage to
the engine cooling system, use only
approved corrosion inhibitor/antifreeze that
complies with the Mercedes-Benz Specifica-
tions for Service Products.
X Replace cap : and tighten in a clockwise
direction.
X Start the engine.
X Set the temperature in the vehicle interior to
the maximum output on the air-conditioning
system control panel.
X After approximately five minutes, switch off
the engine again and allow it to cool down.
X Check the coolant level again and add cool-
ant if necessary.
X Close the hood. Brake fluid
G
WARNING
Service products may be poisonous and haz-
ardous to health. There is a risk of injury.
Comply with instructions on the use, storage
and disposal of service products on the
labels of the respective original containers.
Always store service products sealed in their
original containers. Always keep service
products out of the reach of children. G
WARNING
Opening the hood when the engine is over-
heated or when there is a fire in the engine
compartment could expose you to hot gases
or other service products. There is a risk of
injury.
Let an overheated engine cool down before
opening the hood. If there is a fire in the
engine compartment, keep the hood closed
and contact the fire department. G
WARNING
Certain components in the engine compart-
ment, such as the engine, radiator and parts
of the exhaust system, can become very
hot. Working in the engine compartment
poses a risk of injury.
Where possible, let the engine cool down
and touch only the components described in
the following.
Brake fluid is hazardous to health. Also
observe the safety notes under "Service prod-
ucts and capacities"
(Y page 305). G
WARNING
The brake fluid constantly absorbs moisture
from the air. This lowers the boiling point of
the brake fluid. If the boiling point of the
brake fluid is too low, vapor pockets may
form in the brake system when the brakes
are applied hard. This would impair braking
efficiency. There is a risk of an accident.
You should have the brake fluid renewed at
the specified intervals.
! If the brake fluid level in the brake fluid
reservoir has fallen to the MIN mark or
below, check the brake system immediately
for leaks. Also check the thickness of the
brake linings. Visit a qualified specialist
workshop immediately.
Do not add brake fluid. This does not cor-
rect the malfunction.
! Brake fluid corrodes paint, plastic and rub-
ber. If paint, plastic or rubber has come into
contact with brake fluid, rinse with water
immediately. Engine compartment
255
Maintenance and care Z
Have the brake fluid renewed every two years
at a qualified specialist workshop. Observe the
information regarding brake fluid in the "Ser-
vice products and capacities" section
(Y page
310).Check the brake fluid level regularly, e.g.
weekly or when refueling.
Checking the brake fluid level
X Stop your vehicle as far away from traffic as
possible on level ground.
X Switch off the engine.
X Secure the vehicle to prevent it from rolling
away.
X Open the hood (Y page
251).
X Check the brake fluid level.
The brake fluid level is adequate if the level
is between the MIN mark and MAX mark on
brake fluid reservoir :.
X Close the hood. Washer fluid
G
WARNING
Opening the hood when the engine is over-
heated or when there is a fire in the engine
compartment could expose you to hot gases
or other service products. There is a risk of
injury.
Let an overheated engine cool down before
opening the hood. If there is a fire in the
engine compartment, keep the hood closed
and contact the fire department. G
WARNING
Certain components in the engine compart-
ment, such as the engine, radiator and parts of the exhaust system, can become very
hot. Working in the engine compartment
poses a risk of injury.
Where possible, let the engine cool down
and touch only the components described in
the following. G
WARNING
Windshield washer concentrate is highly
flammable. If windshield washer concentrate
gets onto hot components of the engine or
the exhaust system, it can ignite. There is a
risk of fire and injury.
Make sure that windshield washer concen-
trate is not spilled in the vicinity of the filler
neck.
! Only use washer fluid which is suitable for
lamp lenses, e.g. MB SummerFit or MB Win-
terFit. Unsuitable washer fluid may damage
the lamp lenses of the headlamps. Example: washer fluid reservoir
Add windshield washer concentrate to the
washer fluid all year round. Observe the infor-
mation regarding washer fluid under "Service
Products and Capacities"
(Y page 312).
Adding washer fluid
X Mix the washer fluid to the appropriate mix-
ing ratio in a container beforehand.
X Open the hood ( Y page
251).
X Pull cap : on the washer fluid reservoir
upwards at the tab.
X Add the premixed washer fluid.
X Press cap : onto the filler neck until it
engages audibly.
X Close the hood.256
Engine compartment
Maintenance and care
Disconnecting and removing
G
WARNING
During the charging process, a battery pro-
duces hydrogen gas. If a short circuit occurs
or sparks are created, the hydrogen gas can
ignite. There is a risk of an explosion.
R Make sure that the positive terminal of a
connected battery does not come into
contact with vehicle parts.
R Never place metal objects or tools on a
battery.
R It is important that you observe the
described order of the battery terminals
when connecting and disconnecting a bat-
tery.
R When jump-starting, make sure that the
battery poles with identical polarity are
connected.
R It is particularly important to observe the
described order when connecting and dis-
connecting the jumper cables.
R Never connect or disconnect the battery
terminals while the engine is running. G
WARNING
Battery acid is caustic. There is a risk of
injury.
Avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Do
not inhale any battery gases. Do not lean
over the battery. Keep children away from
batteries. Wash away battery acid immedi-
ately with plenty of clean water and seek
medical attention.
! You should have all work involving the bat-
tery carried out at a qualified specialist
workshop.
If, in exceptional circumstances, you need
to disconnect the battery yourself, please
make sure that:
R Secure the vehicle to prevent it from roll-
ing away.
R You have switched off the engine and
removed the key. Make sure the ignition
is switched off. Check to see that there
are no indicator lamps lighting in the instrument cluster. Electronic compo-
nents such as the alternator may other-
wise be damaged.
R After the battery has been disconnected,
the parking brake is automatically
engaged. You can then no longer move
the vehicle.
R For vehicles with automatic transmission,
the transmission is locked in position P
after disconnecting the battery. You can
then no longer move the vehicle.
R You have first removed the negative ter-
minal and then the positive terminal.
Never mix up the terminal clamp discon-
nection/connection order and never mix
up the terminal clamps. The vehicle's
electronics may otherwise be damaged.
The battery and the cover of the positive ter-
minal clamp must be installed securely dur-
ing operation. Seat base (example: right-hand front seat)
The following description on disconnecting
and removing the battery is based upon the
example of the starter battery in the seat base
of the driver's seat. The additional battery is
disconnected and removed in the same way as
the starter battery. The auxiliary battery is
located in the seat base of the left-hand front
seat.
X Switch off all electrical consumers.
X Switch off the engine and remove the key
from the ignition lock.
X Open the front door on the right-hand side.
i To disconnect or remove the additional
battery, open the left-hand front door. The
auxiliary battery is located in the seat base
of the left-hand front seat. 260
BatteryMaintenance and care
!
Do not use the lower sliding door guide
(carriage) as a step. Otherwise, you could
damage the paneling and/or the sliding
door mechanism.
! When cleaning your car, do not use:
R dry, coarse or hard cloths
R abrasive cleaning agents
R solvents
R cleaning agents containing solvents
Do not scrub.
Do not touch the surfaces and films with
hard objects, e.g. rings or ice scrapers. Oth-
erwise, you may scratch or damage the sur-
faces and films.
! Do not park your vehicle for a long period
of time directly after cleaning, particularly
after cleaning the wheel rim with wheel
cleaner. Wheel cleaner can lead to the
increased corrosion of the brake discs and
pads. Therefore, drive for a few minutes
after cleaning. By heating up the brakes, the
brake discs and pads dry. The vehicle can
then be parked for a long period of time. H
Environmental note
Only clean your vehicle at specially designed
wash bays. Dispose of empty containers and
used cleaning products in an environmen-
tally responsible manner. H
Environmental note
Dispose of empty packaging and cleaning
cloths in an environmentally responsible
manner.
Regular care of your vehicle is a condition for
retaining the quality in the long term.
Use care products and cleaning agents recom-
mended and approved by Mercedes-Benz. Washing the vehicle and cleaning
the paintwork
Automatic car wash G
WARNING
Braking efficiency is reduced after washing
the vehicle. There is a risk of an accident. After the vehicle has been washed, brake
carefully while paying attention to the traffic
conditions until full braking power is
restored.
! Make sure that the automatic car wash is
suitable for the size of the vehicle.
Before washing the vehicle in an automatic
car wash, fold in the exterior mirrors and
remove any additional antennas. Otherwise,
the exterior mirror, antenna or the vehicle
itself could be damaged.
Make sure that the exterior mirrors are fully
folded out again and that any additional
antennas are re-installed when you leave the
automatic car wash.
! Make sure that:
R the side windows and roof are completely
closed
R the climate control blower is switched off
R the windshield wiper switch is in position
0
The vehicle may otherwise be damaged.
You can wash the vehicle in an automatic car
wash from the very start.
Wash off excess dirt before cleaning the vehi-
cle in an automatic car wash.
After putting the vehicle through an automatic
car wash, wipe off wax from:
R the windshield
R the windshield wiper blades
This will prevent smears and reduce wiping
noises caused by residue on the windshield.
R on vehicles with rear-end doors, from the
rear view camera lens in the top of the
license plate molding
(Y page 267)
Washing by hand In some countries, washing by hand is only
allowed at specially equipped washing bays.
Observe the legal requirements of the country
you are currently in when washing by hand.
X Do not use hot water and do not wash the
vehicle in direct sunlight.
X Use a soft car sponge.
X Use a mild cleaning agent, e.g. a Mercedes-
Benz approved car shampoo.264
Care
Maintenance and care
X
Thoroughly hose down the vehicle with a
gentle jet of water.
X Do not point the water jet directly towards
the air inlet grilles.
X Use plenty of water and rinse out the
sponge frequently.
X Rinse the vehicle with clean water and dry
thoroughly with a chamois.
X Do not let the cleaning agents dry on the
paintwork.
When using the vehicle in winter, remove all
traces of road salt deposits carefully and as
soon as possible.
Power washers G
WARNING
The water jet from a circular jet nozzle (dirt
blasters) can cause invisible exterior dam-
age to the tires or chassis components.
Components damaged in this way may fail
unexpectedly. There is a risk of an accident.
Do not use power washers with circular jet
nozzles to clean the vehicle. Have damaged
tires or chassis components replaced imme-
diately.
! Under no circumstances use power wash-
ers in the vehicle interior. The pressurized
water and associated spray produced by the
power washer could cause extensive dam-
age to the vehicle.
! When using high-pressure cleaning equip-
ment, maintain a minimum distance of
approx. 1 ft (30 cm
) between the spray noz-
zle and the vehicle parts. Do not use a
power washer with a round-jet nozzle. You
could damage the vehicle or engine parts.
! Keep the water jet moving constantly
while cleaning. This will avoid causing dam-
age to the vehicle.
Do not point the water jet at:
R door joints
R rear view camera
R air bellows
R brake hoses
R wheel balance weights
R electrical components
R electrical connections R
seals
R drive train, especially not at the inter-
mediate bearing of the propeller shaft
Cleaning the engine !
Water must not enter intake or ventilation
openings. When cleaning with high pressure
water or steam cleaners, the spray must not
be aimed directly at electrical components
or the terminals of electrical lines.
Preserve the engine after the engine has
been cleaned. Protect the belt drive system
from exposure to the preservative agent.
Also observe the information under "Power
washers"
(Y page 265).
Cleaning the paintwork !
Do not affix:
R stickers
R films
R magnetic plates or similar items
to painted surfaces. You could otherwise
damage the paintwork.
Scratches, corrosive deposits, areas affected
by corrosion and damage caused by inade-
quate care cannot always be completely
repaired. In such cases, visit a qualified spe-
cialist workshop.
X Remove impurities immediately, where pos-
sible, whilst avoiding rubbing too hard.
X Soak insect remains with insect remover
and rinse off the treated areas afterwards.
X Soak bird droppings with water and rinse off
the treated areas afterwards.
X Remove coolant, brake fluid, tree resin, oils,
fuels and greases by rubbing gently with a
cloth soaked in petroleum ether or lighter
fluid.
X Use tar remover to remove tar stains.
X Use silicone remover to remove wax.
Cleaning the windows G
WARNING
You could become trapped by the wind-
shield wipers if they start moving while
cleaning the windshield or wiper blades.
There is a risk of injury. Care
265
Maintenance and care
Z