2020 MERCEDES-BENZ METRIS ECU

replaced. If you use load securing aids or tie
downs which are worn out, the load may not
be sufficiently secured and could cause dam-
age to property.
In the event of an accident, have a damaged
cargo compartment floor or loading area, the
cargo tie-down rings and the tie down checked
at a specialist workshop. Otherwise, the load
may not be correctly secured the next time
anything is stowed.
Even if you follow all loading guidelines, the
load increases the risk of injury in the event of
an accident. Observe the information in the
"Securing a load"
(Y page 244) and "Load dis-
tribution" (Y page 243) sections.
You will find information about the maximum
roof load under "Cargo tie-down points and
carrier systems" (Y page 313). You will find
information about roof carriers under "Carrier
systems" (Y page 249). Before loading
! The anti-slip mats cannot be used for
securing goods and must be replaced when
they show signs of:
R Permanent deformation and crushing
R Crack formation
R Cuts
X Tire pressure: check the tire pressure and
correct if necessary
(Y page 282).
X Cargo compartment floor: clean the cargo
compartment floor.
The cargo compartment floor must be free
from oil and dust, dry and swept clean to
prevent the load from slipping.
X Place non-slip mats (anti-slip mats) on the
cargo compartment floor if necessary. During loading
X Observe the gross axle weight rating and
permissible gross vehicle weight for your
vehicle.
Take into account that your vehicle's curb
weight is increased if accessories or optional equipment are installed. The maxi-
mum payload is thus reduced.
X Observe the notes on load distribution
(Y page

243).
The overall center of gravity of the load
should always be as low as possible, cen-
tered and between the axles near the rear
axle.
X Secure the load (Y page
244).
Observe the legal requirements of the coun-
try in which you are currently driving. Checks after loading
G
DANGER
Combustion engines emit poisonous
exhaust gases, such as carbon monoxide.
Exhaust gases can enter the vehicle interior
if the tailgate/rear-end door is open when
the engine is running, especially if the vehi-
cle is in motion. There is a risk of poisoning.
Always switch off the engine before opening
the tailgate/rear-end door. Never drive the
vehicle when the tailgate/rear-end door is
open.
X Securing luggage/loads: make sure that
the luggage and/or load is secure before
every journey and at regular intervals during
a long journey, and correct it if necessary.
X Doors/tailgate: close the sliding doors and
tailgate/door.
X Tire pressure: adjust the tire pressure
according to the vehicle load
(Y page 282).
X Driving style: adapt your driving style
according to the vehicle load. Load distribution
General notes
! Excessive loads on individual points of the
cargo floor or on the load surface impair
vehicle handling characteristics and could
cause damage to the floor covering.
The overall center of gravity of the load should
always be as low as possible, centered and
between the axles near the rear axle. Load distribution
243
Transporting loads Z

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

locking). Use rigid load securing aids, such
as wedges, wooden fixings or padding.
X Attach secured and stabilized loads in all
directions to the cargo tie-down rings and
the guide rails in the rear compartment.
Only use tie downs, such as lashing nets
and lashing straps, that have been tested in
accordance with current standards.
When securing a load, always use the clos-
est cargo tie-down rings and pad sharp
edges for protection. Cargo tie-down points (example: Cargo Van)
Fixed cargo tie-down points on the floor
:
Guide/load rails
; Cargo tie-down rings
If your vehicle is equipped with guide/loading
rails : in the floor, you can place lashing rods
directly in front of and behind the load. The
lashing rods directly absorb the potential shift-
ing forces.
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.
Spread the load evenly across the cargo tie-
down points/cargo tie-down rings. You will
find information on the maximum loading capacity of the cargo tie-down points under
"Cargo tie-down points and carrier systems"
(Y page
313).
Do not attempt to modify or repair the cargo
tie-down points/cargo tie-down rings or tie
downs. Read the information on qualified spe-
cialist workshops: (Y page 32).
Note for Passenger Vans (vehicle category
M1) on the cargo tie-down points/cargo
tie-down rings on the cargo compartment
floor Lashing angle for optimal load securing (example)
d
Vertical to the cargo compartment floor
e Cargo compartment floor
: Direction of propagation with 75° lashing
angle
; Direction of propagation with 45° lashing
angle
The lashing angle is between the cargo com-
partment floor and the tie downs. For optimal
load securing in accordance with the
ISO 27955 standard, the lashing angle must
be between 45° ; and 75° :. The maximum
nominal tension load of

350 daN for the cargo
tie-down rings in the cargo compartment floor
or in the guide rails may not be exceeded.
Note for commercial vehicles (vehicle cate-
gories N1) without partition
Vehicles that are approved as commercial
vehicles (vehicle category N1) do not meet the
ISO 27956 standard in the currently valid ver-
sion without a partition. The ISO 27956 stand-
ard describes the equipment for correctly
securing a load in delivery vehicles. When
using the vehicle for the transport of goods,
the retrofitting of the partition is strongly rec-
ommended as it is difficult to secure loads cor-
rectly in vehicles without a partition. Securing loads
245
Transporting loads Z

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

Tensioning strap
X
Observe the important safety notes
(Y page
246) and the tips in the "Securing a
load" sections (Y page 244).
X To tighten the tensioning strap: press
tensioning lever = and keep it pressed.
X Guide tensioning strap : between tension-
ing lever = and brace ; as illustrated and
tighten it.
X Release tensioning lever =.
X To release the tensioning strap: press
tensioning lever = and pull tensioning
strap : out from the strap buckle. Ratchet strap
Tensioning lever fastened in detent position
Always observe the operating instructions or
the notes of the manufacturer for the opera-
tion of the ratchet strap.
X To release the tensioning lever: press
stop slider = outwards in the direction of
the arrow and swing tensioning lever ;
from detent position 1 to the desired posi-
tion.
X To tighten the ratchet strap: release ten-
sioning lever ; and open it. Threading and tensioning Lashing straps
247
Transporting loads Z

X
Guide ratchet strap ? through slotted shaft
A from behind as illustrated and tighten it.
X Swing tensioning lever ; back and forth
until the ratchet strap has wound around
slotted shaft A two to three times.
X Press stop slider = outwards in the direc-
tion of the arrow and swing tensioning
lever ; to detent position 1.
X Release stop slider =.
The ratchet is closed and engaged. Tensioning lever in the release position
X To release the ratchet strap: release ten-
sioning lever ; and swing it into release
position 7.
Lock stop slider = engages in end recess
B.
X Unlock the release catch D by pressing it.
Slotted shaft A can move freely.
X Pull ratchet strap ? out of the ratchet. Securing loads
Load protection net
G
WARNING
The load protection net alone cannot
restrain or secure heavy objects, luggage or
heavy loads. In the event of abrupt changes
in direction, braking maneuvers or an acci-
dent, you may be struck by unsecured loads.
There is a risk of injury, possibly even fatal.
Always stow objects in such a way that they
cannot be tossed about. Secure objects, lug-
gage and loads to prevent them slipping or
tipping over, e.g. by lashing them down,
even when using the load protection net. G
WARNING
If vehicle occupants are seated behind a
load protection net, they may be squeezed
up against the load protection net. There is
a risk of injury, particularly in the event of
braking maneuvers or abrupt changes in
direction.
Never allow vehicle occupants to sit behind
the load protection net.
The load protection net borders the cargo
compartment. It protects vehicle occupants
from light objects and/or luggage slipping or
tipping over. Always observe the notes on
securing loads
(Y page 244).
You can install the load protection net at an
angle behind the front seats or behind the first
row of back seats. Upper retainer
Anchorage (example: fixed cargo tie-down ring)248
Securing loads
Transporting loads

Installing
X Clip the load protection net into upper
retainers : in such a way that tensioning
straps = face the rear of the vehicle.
X Pull tensioning straps = of the load protec-
tion net tightly.
X Clip hook ? on tensioning straps = into
cargo tie-down rings A.
X Fold tensioning element ; up.
X Pull the loose ends of tensioning straps =
down in the direction of the arrow until ten-
sioning straps = are tight.
X Fold tensioning element ; down to achieve
the final tension on the straps.
X After traveling a short distance, check that
the load protection net is taut.
X Retighten, if necessary.
Removing X Fold tensioning element ; up.
Tensioning straps = are slack.
X Unclip hook ? of tensioning straps = from
cargo tie-down rings A at the bottom.
X Unclip the load protection net from upper
retainers :.
X Roll up the load protection net and fasten it,
still rolled up, using the Velcro fasteners.
Adjusting the front seat with the load pro-
tection net installed
X Fold tensioning element ; on straps =
upwards.
The load protection net slackens.
X Correctly adjust the front seat.
X Re-tension the load protection net. Carrier systems
G
WARNING
When you load the roof, the center of gravity
of the vehicle rises and the usual driving
characteristics, as well as steering and brak-
ing, change. The vehicle tilts more severely
when cornering and may react more slug-
gishly to steering input.
If you exceed the maximum roof load, the
driving characteristics, as well as the steer- ing and braking, will be greatly impaired.
There is a risk of an accident.
Adjust your driving style and never exceed
the maximum roof load.
You will find information about the maximum
roof load under "Cargo tie-down points and
carrier systems"
(Y page 313).
! Make sure that:
R the screws of the roof carrier are tight-
ened to a maximum torque of 7.4 lb-ft
(10 Nm) in the threaded holes provided
and
R there is a minimum bolt penetration of
4 turns.
Only install roof carriers and rear racks that
have been approved or recommended for
Mercedes-Benz vehicles. This will help avoid
damage to the vehicle.
You can install a roof carrier on the roof and,
for example, a rear-mounted cycle rack on the
tailgate.
Install the protective caps on the securing
threads after you have removed the roof car-
rier.
If you have installed a rear rack on the tailgate,
the additional weight reduces the assistance
provided by the gas pressure springs when the
tailgate is opened. You will then need more
force to open the tailgate. At low outside tem-
peratures below freezing you will need to pro-
vide extra support for the tailgate to prevent it
from sinking unintentionally. Carrier systems
249
Transporting loads Z

Opening the hood
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.
! Make sure that the windshield wipers are
not folded away from the windshield. You
could otherwise damage the windshield wip-
ers or the hood. Observe the safety notes when you open the
hood.
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
(Y page 138).
X Pull release handle : on the hood.
The hood is released. X
Reach into the gap and push lever ; on the
hood catch to the left.
X Raise the hood and hold it in that position. X
Pull support strut ? out of retainer = and
guide it up in the direction of the arrow.
X Lower the hood in such a way that support
strut ? glides into recess A and the hood
engages.
Closing the hood G
WARNING
Cloths or other flammable materials left in
the engine compartment can ignite if they
come into contact with the exhaust system
or parts of the engine that heat up. There is
a risk of fire. After carrying out maintenance
work, make sure that no extraneous flam-
mable material is left in the engine compart-
ment or on the exhaust system.
! Do not use your hands to push the hood
down. You could damage it otherwise. Engine compartment
251
Maintenance and care Z