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Mercedes-Benz

Operator's Manual

300 SD

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Product informationKindly observe the following in your own best interest:

We recommend using Mercedes-Benz original parts as well as conversion parts and accessories explicitly approved by us foryour vehicle model. We have tested these parts to determine their reliability, safety and their special suitability for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

We are unable to make an assessment for other products and therefore cannot be held responsible for them, even if in individual casesan official approval or authorization by governmental or other agencies should exist. Use of such parts and accessories couldadversely affect the safety, performance or reliability of your vehicle. Please do not use them. Mercedes-Benz original parts as well asconversion parts and accessories approved by us are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center where you will receivecomprehensive information, also on permissible technical modifications, and where proper installation will be performed.

Our company and staff congratulate you on the purchase of your new Mercedes-Benz.

Your selection of our product is a demonstration of your trust in our company name. Further, it exemplifies your desire to own anautomobile that will be as easy as possible to operate and provide years of service.

Your Mercedes-Benz represents the efforts of many skilled engineers and craftsmen. To ensure your pleasure of ownership, andfor your safety and that of your passengers, we ask you to make a small investment of your time:

• Please read this manual carefully before putting it aside. Then return it to your vehicle where it will be handy foryour reference.

• Please abide by the recommendations contained in this manual. They are designed to acquaint you with theoperation of your Mercedes-Benz.

• Please abide by the warnings and cautions contained in this manual. They are designed to help improve the safetyof the vehicle operator and occupants.

We extend our best wishes for many miles of safe, pleasurable driving.

DaimlerChrysler AG

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Operator's manual

This Operator's Manual contains a great deal of useful information. We urge you to read it carefully and familiarize yourself with thevehicle before driving.

For your own safety and longer service life of the vehicle, we urge you to follow the instructions and warnings contained in thismanual. Ignoring them could result in damage to the vehicle or personal injury to you or others. Vehicle damage caused by failure tofollow instructions is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Your vehicle may have some or all of the equipment described in this manual. Therefore, you may find explanations for optionalequipment not installed in your vehicle. If you have any questions about the operation of any equipment, your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to demonstrate the proper procedures.Owner’s Service and Warranty Policy

The Owner’s Service and Warranty Information Booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering yourMercedes-Benz, including:

• New Car Limited Warranty,• Emission System Warranty,• Emission Performance Warranty,• State Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon Laws).

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Important notice for California retail buyers of Mercedes-Benz automobiles

Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, if Mercedes-Benz USA,LLCor its authorized Mercedes-Benz Center fails to conform the vehicle to its express warranties after a reasonable number of repair attemptsduring the period of one year or 12 000 miles from original delivery of the vehicle. A reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed fora retail buyer (1) if the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of substantial nonconformities for a cumulative total of more than 30calendar days or (2) the same substantial non-conformity has been subject to repair four or more times and you have at least oncedirectly notified us in writing of the need to repair the non-conformity and have given us an opportunity to perform the repairourselves. Notifications should be sent to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Regional Office listed in the Service and WarrantyInformation Booklet.

Maintenance

The Service Booklet describes all the necessary maintenance work which should be performed at regular intervals.

Always have the Service Booklet with you when you take the vehicle to your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for service.The service advisor will record each service in the booklet for you.

Roadside assistance

The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program provides factory trained technical help in the event of a breakdown. Calls to thetoll-free Roadside Assistance number:

1-800-222-0100 (in the USA) only

will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Client Assistance Representatives 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

For additional information refer to the Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program brochure in your glove box.

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Change of address or ownership

If you change your address, be sure to send in the "Change of Address Notice" found in the Owner's Serviceand Warranty Policy Booklet. It is in your own interest that we can contact you should the need arise.

If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all owner's literature with the vehicle to make it available to the next owner.If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in the "Notice of Purchase of Used Car" found in the Owner'sService and Warranty Policy Booklet.

Operating your vehicle outside the USA or Canada

If you plan to operate your vehicle in foreign countries, please be aware that service facilities or replacementparts may not be readily available.

Certain Mercedes-Benz models are available for delivery in Europe under our European Delivery Program.For details, consult your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer or write to:

In the USA: In Canada:Mercedes-Benz USA, Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc.LLC European Delivery Department European Delivery DepartmentOne Mercedes Drive 849 Eglinton Avenue EastMontvale, NJ 07645 Toronto, Ontario M4G 2L5

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We continuously strive to improve our product, and ask for your understanding that we reserve the right to make changes in design andequipment. Therefore, information, illustrations and descriptions in this Operator's Manual might differ from your vehicle.

Optional equipment is also described in this manual, including operating instructions wherever necessary. Since they are special-orderitems, the descriptions and illustrations herein may vary slightly from the actual equipment of your vehicle.

If there are any equipment details that are not shown or described in this Operator's Manual, your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to inform you of correct care and operating procedures.

The Operator's Manual and Service Booklet are important documents and should be kept with the vehicle.

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Check Regularly and Before a Long TripSee Index

The First 1000 Miles (1500 km)

The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satisfied you will be with its performance later on.Therefore, drive your vehicle during the first 1500 km (1000 miles) at moderate vehicle and engine-speeds.During this period, avoid heavy loads (full throttle driving) and high RPM (no more than 2/3 of maximum permissible speed in eachgear as indicated on the speedometer).Avoid accelerating by kickdown. It is not recommended to brake the vehicle by manually shifting to a lower gear. We recommend toselect positions "3" or "2"only at moderate speeds (for hill driving).After 1000 miles (1500 km) speeds may be gradually increased to the permissible maximum

Maintenance

We strongly recommend that you have your vehicle serviced by your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer, in accordance with theMaintenance Booklet.

Failure to have the vehicle maintained in accordance with the Maintenance Booklet may result in vehicle damage not covered bythe Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Radio Transmitters

Warning!

Never operate radio transmitters equipped with a built-in or attached antenna (i.e. without the telephoneconnected to an external antenna) from inside the vehicle while the engine is running. Doing so could leadto a malfunction of the vehicle's electronic system, possibly resulting in an accident and personal injury.

Radio transmitters, such as a portable telephone or a citicens band unit should only be used insidethe passenger compartment, if they are connected to a Mercedes-Benz approved antenna that isinstalled on the outside of the vehicle.

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Introduction Power window and sliding/Pop-Up roof 32 Rear Window Sunshade 67Product information 2 Power closing assist for door and trunk lid 33 Rear Window Defroster 68Operator's manual 4 Anti-Theft Alarm System 34 Shelf Below Rear Window 68Consumer Information 130 Power Seats, Front 35 Setting Clock 69Problems with your vehicle 131 Lumbar support 38 Antenna 69Reporting Safety Defects 132 Multicontour Backrest 38 Cellular Telephone 69Index 134 Heated Seats 39

Armrest, front 40 DrivingInstruments and controls Head Restraints, Rear 42

Power Head Restraints, Rear 43 Drinking and driving 72Instruments and controls 10 Adjustable steering wheel 44 Parking Brake 72

Instrument Cluster 12Seat belts and Supplemental restraintsystem (SRS) 45

Driving off 72

Indicator Lamp Symbols 13 Seat belts 45 Automatic Transmission 73Starting and Turning Off the Engine 14 Emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) 48 Rear Fender Indicator 76Driving Instructions 15 Airbag 49 Cruise Control 76

Steering Lock 54 Charge Indicator Lamp 78Operation Combination Switch 55 Engine Oil Pressure Gauge with Oil

Pressure Warning Lamp 78Air Outlets 20 Exterior Lamp Switch 57 Low Engine Oil Level Warning Lamp 79Automatic Climate Control 21 Inside and exterior Rear View Mirrors 58 Engine Oil Consumption 79Rear passenger compartment

Adjustable Air outlet 24Sun Visors 61 Fuel Consumption Gauge 79

Climate control 25 Vanity mirrors 61 Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp 78Activated Charcoal Filter 25 Interior Lighting 62 Outside Temperature Indicator 80Car keys 26 Storage Compartments 63 Coolant Temperature Gauge 80Infrared Remote Control 27 Ashtrays 64 Low Engine Coolant Level

Warning Lamp81

Central Locking system 30 Lighter 64 Low Windshield andHeadlamp Washer System

Doors 30 Sliding roof with rear pop-up feature 65 Washer Fluid Level Warning Lamp 81Trunk 31 Power Windows 67 Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator Lamp 82

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Seat Belt Warning Lamp 82 Spare Wheel, lug wrench 93 Emergency Operation of Sliding Roof 118Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp 82 Stowing Things in the Vehicle 95 Roof Rack 119Brake Warning Lamp 83 First Aid Kit 95 MERCEDES-BENZ

Spare Parts Service119

ABS (Antilock Brake System)Warning Lamp 84

Vehicle Jack 96 Layout of Poly-V-Belt Drive 119

Automatic Locking Differential (ASD) 85 Vehicle Tools 96Adaptive damping system (ADS) 86 Storage compartment below vehicle tool

box96 Technical Data. Fuels,

Coolants, Lubricants etc. ConsumerInformation

Emission Control 87 Wheels 97

Changing Wheels 98 Identification Plates 122Traveling Abroad 87 Tire in Inflation Pressure 101 Warranty Coverage 123Winter Driving 88 Battery 102 Technical Data 124Snow Chains 88 Exterior Lamps 103 Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants etc. 125

Fuses 107 Capacities 125Practical Hints Jump Starting 108 Engine Oils 127

Towing the Vehicle 110 Brake Fluid 127Hood 90 Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle 111 Air Conditioner Refrigerant 127Checking Coolant Level 91 Testing Infrared Remote Control 114 Diesel Fuels 128Adding Coolant 91 Front Head Restraints 115 Coolants 129Checking Engine Oil Level 92 Rear Seat Cushion 116 Check regularly and before a long trip 139Checking Automatic Trans. Fluid Level 93 Manual Closing of Trunk Lid 116Turning Off Engine Manually 94 Manual Retraction of Trunk Lid Handle 116Blending of Fuel System 94 Replacing Wiper Blades 117Trunk Lamp 95 Manual Release of Fuel Filler Flap 118

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Instruments and ControlsFor more detailed descriptions see specified pages

1 Adjustable air outlet 19 Storage/eyeglasses compartment2 Exterior lamp switch 20 Lock for storage/eyeglasses compartment and eye glove3 Parking brake release 21 Glove box (illuminated with key in steering lock

position 2)4 Hood lock release 22 Rear window defroster switch5 Parking brake pedal 23 Switch for rear seat head restraints6 Steering wheel adjustment switch 24 Activated charcoal filter switch7 Combination switch 25 Central locking switch8 Cruise control switch 26 Hazard warning flasher switch9 Horn, airbag 27 Automatic climate control10 Instrument cluster 28 Radio11 Steering lock with ignition/starter switch 29 Ashtray with lighter12 Adjustable air outlet 30 Adaptive damping system adjustment switch13 Heated air supply button - center air outlet 31 Seat heater switch

14 Non heated/cooled air supply button - center air outlet 32 Mirror adjustment switch15 Air volume control for left air outlet 33 Switch for rear window sunshade16 Air volume control for left center air outlet 34 Power window switch17 Air volume control for center air outlet 35 Loudspeaker front to rear fader control18 Air volume control for right air outlet

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Instrument Cluster

1 Fuel gauge with reserve warning lamp (yellow). See Index 9 Trip odometer. See Index2 Coolant temperature gauge. See Index 10 Main odometer. See Index3 Fuel consumption gauge. See Index 11 Outside temperature indicator. See Index4 Engine oil pressure gauge (bar) with warning lamp (red).

See Index12 Right turn signal indicator lamp (green) See Index

5 Left turn signal indicator lamp (green). See Index 13 Knob for setting clock (to adjust pull knob outand rotate). See Index

6 Knob for instrument lamps and trip odometer.Rotate knob: To vary intensity of instrument lamps.Depress knob: To reset trip odometer. See Index

14 Tachometer. See Index

7 Speedometer See Index 15 Electric clock. See Index8 ASD function indicator lamp (yellow). See Index ADS function indicator lamp (yellow). See Index

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Indicator Lamp SymbolsFunction Indicator Lamp

High beam ADS malfunction. See Index

Preglow. See Index ASD malfunction. See Index

Warning Lamp(should go out with the engine running unless)

ABS malfunction. See Index.

Battery not being charged properly. See Index. Brake pads worn down. See Index.

Fluid level for windshield and headlamp washersystem low. See Index.

Brake fluid low (except Canada). Parking brakeengaged. See Index.

Coolant level low. See Index. Brake fluid low (Canada only). Parking brakeengaged. See Index.

Engine oil level low. See Index. SRS malfunction. See Index.

Exterior lamp failure. See Index. Fasten seat belts.See Index.

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Starting and Turning Off the Engine

Before Starting

Engage parking brake and move theselector lever to position "P" or "N".

Cold Engine

Turn key to steering lock position 2.Charge indicator and pre-glowindicator lamp should come on. Thepreglow process starts. When thepreglow indicator lamp goes out, theengine is ready for starting.

Ambient temperatures above+ 14°F (-10°C):

Do not depress accelerator. Turn key insteering lock clockwise to the stop.Release key only when the engine isfiring regularly.

Ambient temperaturesbelow +14°F(-10°C):

Depress accelerator party. Turn key insteering lock clockwise to the stop.Release key only when the engine isfiring regularly and back offaccelerator slowly.

Do not interrupt the starting process. Ifthe engine is very cold, it is possiblethat it will fail to start on subsequentattempts.

At ambient temperatures below 0°F(-18°C), depress accelerator three timesprior to starting.

Hot Engine

Turn key in steering lock clockwise tothe stop and start engine immediatelywithout depressing the accelerator.

Turning off

Turn the key in the steering lock toposition 0 only when the vehicle hasstopped moving.The key can only be removed with theselector lever in position "P".Should the engine continue to operatewith the key in steering lock position0, refer to Engine, Turning OffManually in Index.

If the coolant temperature is very high(e.g. after hard driving on mountainroads), do not shut off the engineimmediately, allow it to run for 1 - 2minutes at increased idle speed withselector lever in position "P" or "N".

Important!

Due to the installed starter non-repeatfeature, the key must be turnedcompletely to the left before attemptingto start the engine again.

Observe the oil pressure gaugeimmediately after starting the engine.In a very cold engine the oil pressurewill rise slowly. Do not speed up theengine before pressure is registered onthe pressure gauge. If you do not seethe gauge register oil pressure, stop theengine and have it checked.The battery charge indicator lampshould go out as soon as the engine hasstarted.

If the preglow indicator lamp fails tolight up, or lights up while driving, thepreglow system is defective and shouldbe repaired at your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer at the earliestpossible date.

The engine is equipped with a blockheater to provide reliable starting attemperatures below 0° F (-18°C).Refer to Winter Driving in Index.

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Driving Instructions

Power Assistance

When the engine is not running, thebrake and steering systems are withoutpower assistance. Under thesecircumstances, a much greater effort isnecessary to stop or steer the vehicle.

Brakes

Caution!

When driving down long and steepgrades, relieve the load on the brakesby shifting into a lower gear (selectorlever position "4" , "3" , "2". This helpsprevent overheating of the brakes andreduces brake pad wear. Do not exceedengine speed limits (see Index).

After hard braking, it is advisable todrive on for some time, rather thanimmediately parking, so the air streamwill cool down the brakes faster.

Warning!

After driving in heavy rain for sometime without applying the brakes orthrough water deep enough to wetbrake components, the first brakingaction may be somewhat reducedand increased pedal pressure maybe necessary. Be sure to maintain asafe distance from vehicles in front.

The condition of the parking brakesystem is checked each time the car isin the shop for the requiredmaintenance.

Between maintenance checks, it is agood practice to apply the parkingbrake once or twice while driving atapproximately 50 km/h (30 mph) on adry straight road. Apply parking brakelightly until a slight drag on the wheelsis felt. Keep applying the brake forabout 10 seconds while pulling the re-lease handle out before releasing theparking brake completely. This practicewill keep the parking brake atmaximum efficiency.

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Warning!

The stop lamps will not come onwhen applying the parking brakeonly. Perform the procedure in theprevious paragraph only when theroad is clear of other traffic.

Resting your foot on the brake pedalwill cause excessive and prematurewear of the brake pads.

It can also result in the brakesoverheating thereby significantlyreducing their effectiveness. It maynot be possible to stop the car insufficient time to avoid an accident.

All checks and maintenance work onthe brake system should be carried outby an authorized MERCEDES-BENZdealer.

If the parking brake is released and thebrake warning lamp in the instrumentcluster stays on, the brake fluid level inthe reservoir is too low.

Brake pad wear or a leak in the systemmay be the reason for low brake fluidin the reservoir.

Have the brake system inspected at anauthorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealerimmediately.

Install only brake pads and brake fluidrecommended by MERCEDES-BENZ.

Warning!

If other than recommended brakepads are installed, the brakingproperties of the vehicle can beaffected to an extent that the safety issubstantially impaired.

Tires

Tread wear indicators (TWI) arerequired by law. These indicators arelocated in six places on the treadcircumference and become visible at adepth of approx. 2 mm (1/16 in), atwhich point the tire is considered wornand should be replaced.

The tread wear indicator appears as asolid band across the tread.

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Warning!

Do not allow your tires to weardown too far. With less than 1/8 in (3mm) of tread, the adhesionproperties on a wet road are sharplyreduced.Depending upon the weather and/orroad surface (conditions), the tiretraction varies widely.

Specified tire pressures must bemaintained. This applies particularly ifthe tires are subjected to high loads(e.g. high speeds, heavy loads, highambient temperatures).

Warning!

Do not drive with a flat tire. A flattire affects the ability to steer orbrake the vehicle. You may losecontrol of the car. Continueddriving with a flat tire or driving athigh speed with a flat tire will causeexcessive heat build-up and possiblya fire.

Aquaplaning

Depending on the depth of the waterlayer on the road, aquaplaning mayoccur, even at low speeds and with newtires. Avoid track grooves in the roadarid apply brakes cautiously in the rain.

Tire Traction

The safe speed on a wet, snow coveredor icy road is always lower than on adry road.

You should pay particular attention tothe condition of the road as soon as theprevailing temperatures fall close to thefreezing point.

Warning!

If ice has formed on the road, tiretraction will be substantiallyreduced. Under such weatherconditions, drive, steer and brakewith extreme caution.

We recommend M + S radial-ply tiresfor the winter season for all fourwheels to insure normal balancedhandling characteristics.

On packed snow, they can reduce yourstopping distance as compared withsummer tires. Stopping distance,however, is still considerably greaterthan when the road is wet or dry.

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Parking

Warning!

To reduce the risk of personal injuryas a result of vehicle movement,before turning off the engine andleaving the vehicle always:

1. Keep right foot on brakepedal.

2. Firmly depress parkingbrake pedal.

3. Move the selector lever toposition "P".

4. Slowly release brake pedal.5. Turn front wheels towards

the road curb.6. Turn the key to steering

lock position 0 and remove.

Important!

It is advisable to set the parking brakewhenever parking or leaving thevehicle. In addition, move selectorlever to position "P".

When parking on hills, always set theparking brake.

Winter Driving Instructions

The most important rule for slippery oricy roads is to drive sensibly and toavoid abrupt acceleration, braking andsteering action. Do not use the cruisecontrol system under such conditions.

When the vehicle is in danger ofskidding move selector lever toposition "N". Try to keep the vehicleunder control by corrective steeringaction.

Road salts and chemicals can adverselyaffect braking efficiency. Increasedpedal force may become necessary toproduce the normal brake effect. Wetherefore recommend depressing thebrake pedal repeatedly when travelingon salt-strewn roads at length. This canbring road salt impaired brakingefficiency back to normal. Aprerequisite is, however, that this ispossible without endangering otherdrivers on the road.

If the vehicle is parked after beingdriven on salt treated roads, the brakingefficiency should be tested as soon aspossible after driving is resumed whileobserving the safety rules in theprevious paragraph.

Warning!

If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow,make sure that snow is kept clear ofthe exhaust pipe and from aroundthe vehicle with engine running.Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide(CO) gases may enter vehicle interiorresulting in unconsciousness anddeath.

To assure sufficient fresh airventilation, open a window slightlyon the side of the car that is out ofthe wind.

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Operation

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Air Outlets

1 Air volume controlfor left air outlet,turn left to open

2 Air volume controlfor left center air outlet, turn left toopen

3 Air volume control.for right center air outlet, turn left toopen

4 Air volume controlfor right air outlet,turn left to open

5 Left center air outlet,adjustable

6 Right center air outlet,adjustable

7 Side air outlet, left and right,adjustable

Push-buttons for center airOutlets

8 Heated air supply(red indicator)

9 Non-heated/cooled air supply(blue indicator)

Basic mode:None of the push-buttons (8 or 9)is pressed.

Note:

Dust particles (down to a certain size)and pollen are filtered out beforeoutside air enters the passengercompartment through the airdistribution system.

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Automatic Climate Control

Left side passenger compartment:

1 Temperature selector

2 Temperature display

3 Automatic mode

4 Air distribution buttons

5 Defrost

6 Residual engine heatutilization

7 Air recirculation

8 Air volume selector

9 Economy

10 Selection switch

11 Off

Right side passengercompartment:

12 Temperature selector

13 Temperature display

14 Automatic mode

15 Air distribution buttons

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The temperature selected with thetemperature selector is reached asquickly as possible.

The temperature selector should be leftat the desired temperature setting.With the center air outlets open and thesystem in heating mode, switch theoutlets to non-heated/ cooled air bypressing the blue button (indicator lamplights up).

With the center air outlets open and thesystem in cooling mode, switch theoutlets to non-heated/ fresh air bypressing the red button (indicator lamplights up).

The system will not heat or cool anyquicker by setting a higher or lowertemperature.

The automatic climate control onlyoperates with the engine running.The automatic climate control removesconsiderable moisture from the airduring operation in the cooling mode. Itis normal for water to drip on theground through ducts in the underbody.

1, 12 Temperature Selector

The desired interior temperature can beselected separately for the left and rightside of the passenger compartment.

A basic setting in the white field of theselector is recommended, and can beused for driving year round.

The selected temperature can be shownin the display window (2) in either °For °C.

3, 14 Automatic Mode

This is the normal setting.Air volume and distribution arecontrolled automatically.

To select: Press button(indicator lamp lights up).

To change selection:

Press, , , orbutton (indicator lamp of selected

button lights up). The indicator lampfor button goes out.

Note:

If the Automatic Climate Control is inthe "Diagnosis Mode", turn key insteering lock to position 0 to return itto its normal operation.

5 Defrost

Maximum heated and automaticallycontrolled amount of air is directed tothe windshield and side windows.As the engine coolant temperatureincreases, the air volume isautomatically increased, therebydefrosting as quickly as possible.Open and direct air outlets (7) towardsthe side windows.

Note:Press once again to return toprevious setting.

Defogging Windows

Switch off, or switch on(left and right side), or switch on.

Note:To quickly defog the inside of thewindshield, select the largest airvolume and air distribution button .

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6 Residual Engine HeatUtilization

With the engine switched off, it ispossible to continue heating the interiorfor a short while. The rear passengercompartment air outlet must be closed.

Air volume and distribution arecontrolled automatically.

To select:

Turn key in steering lock to position1 or 0 or remove key.

Press button (indicator lamp lightsup). This function selection will notactivate if the engine coolanttemperature is below 40°C (105°F) orif the battery charge is insufficient.

To cancel:

• Press button(indicator lamp goes out).

• Turn key in steering lock toposition 2.

The system will automatically shut off

• after approx. 30 minutes,• if the engine coolant temperature

drops below 122°F (50 °C),• if the battery voltage drops.

7 Air Recirculation

Outside air is not supplied to the car'sinterior.

This mode can be selected to preventannoying odors or dust from enteringthe car's interior.

To select: Press button(indicator lamp lights up).

To cancel:Press button (indicator lampgoes out).

The system will automaticallyswitch from recirculated air to freshair if button is pressed

• after approx. 5 minutes atoutside temperatures belowapprox. 40°F(5°C),

• after approx. 20 minutes, atoutside temperatures aboveapprox. 40°F(5°C).

If button is pressed:

• after approx. 5 minutes.

Notes:

If the windows should fog up from theinside, switch from recirculated air backto fresh air.

At high outside temperatures, thesystem automatically engages therecirculated air mode therebyincreasing the cooling capacityperformance, switching to partially freshair within 20 minutes.

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8 Air Volume Selector

The air volume is automaticallyregulated in

AUTO = Normal setting

and all intermediate positions, exceptwhen selecting

MIN = minimum air flow,MAX = maximum air flow.

9 Economy

The function of this settingcorresponds to the automatic mode.However, because the air conditioningcompressor will not engage (fuelsavings), it is not possible to aircondition in this setting.

12 Off

The fresh air supply to the car interioris shut off.

While driving, use this setting onlytemporarily, otherwise the windshieldcould fog up.

Important!

This vehicle is equipped with an airconditioner system that uses HFC-134a(ozone-friendly hydro-fluorocarbon) as arefrigerant.

Repairs should always be performed bya qualified technician, and refrigerantshould be collected in a recovery systemfor recycling.

Rear Passenger CompartmentAdjustable Air Outlet

Slide switch (1) up to open outlet forfresh/cooled air only.

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Rear Passenger CompartmentClimate Control

1 Temperature selector, left side2 Temperature selector, right side

A basic setting in the white field of theselector is recommended.

3 Air volume selector

The air volume can be variedcontinuously. The air flow is switchedoff with selector in position "0".

4 Adjustable air outlet, left side5 Adjustable air outlet, right side6 Air distribution slide

Top position: air flow from airoutlets (4 and 5). Bottom position:air flow from air outlets beneathfront seats.

Intermediate positions can beselected for a mixed air flow.

Note:

The rear passenger climate controldoes not operate with automaticclimate control in mode orswitched off with button .

Activated Charcoal Filter

1 Switch on2 Switch offAn activated charcoal filter markedlyreduces bad odors and removespollutants from the air entering thepassenger compartment.When pressing button or ,the filter is also switched off.Note:The activated charcoal filter should beswitched off when windows fog up onthe inside, or if the passengercompartment needs to be quicklyheated up or cooled down.

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Car Keys

Included with your vehicle are• 2 Master keys with infrared

remote control• 1 Master key• 1 Valet key• 1 Flat key

Infrared Remote Control withFolding Master Key

The master key fits all locks on the car.

The transmitter for the infrared remotecontrol is located in the key holder, thereceivers are located next to the doorlocks and below the trunk lock.

Master Key

The master key fits all locks on the car.

Valet Key

The valet key fits only the door locksand the steering lock.

The valet key will not fit the trunklock or storage compartmenteyeglasses compartment lock in thedashboard.

Flat Key

The flat key fits all locks on the Car.

Note:

Do not give the master key to anunauthorized person.

We recommend that you carry the flatkey with you and keep it. in a safeplace (e.g. your wallet) so that it isalways handy. Never leave the flat keyin the vehicle.

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle alwaysremove the key from the steeringlock. Do not leave childrenunattended in the vehicle.Unsupervised use of vehicleequipment may cause seriouspersonal injury.

Obtaining Replacement Keys

Your vehicle is equipped with a theftdeterrent locking system requiring aspecial key manufacturing process. Forsecurity reasons, replacement keys canonly be obtained via your authorizedMERCEDES-BENZ dealer.

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Master Key in Key Holder

1 Release button for master key

Releasing: press release button (1). Thekey unfolds from the holder by itself.

Storing: press release button (1) andfold key back into holder.

Infrared Remote Control

1 Transmit button

2 Transmitter eye and battery check

The vehicle can be centrally lockedand unlocked, as well as the windowsand sliding roof closed with infraredremote control.

The transmitter is located in the keyholder; the receivers are locatednext to the door locks and below thetrunk lock.

3 Receiver in door handle

Unlocking:

Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver(3) and press transmit button (1).Distance to receiver max. 20 ft (6 m).

The green indicator lamps on thereceivers should blink. They stopblinking when the vehicle isunlocked.

Note:If the trunk was previously lockedseparately, it will remain locked(see Index).

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3 Receiver next to trunk lock

Locking:

Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver(3) and press transmit button (1).Distance to receiver max. 20 ft (6 m).

The red indicator lamp on the receivershould blink. It stops blinking afterapproximately 3 seconds when thevehicle is properly locked.

Notes:

If a door or the trunk is not properlyclosed after you attempt to lock thevehicle by remote control, the redindicator lamps will continue to blink(max. 10 seconds). Open the door ortrunk lid, close it properly, and' lockthe car again.

If the vehicle cannot be locked orunlocked by pressing the transmitbutton (1), then it may be necessary tochange the batteries in the transmitter(if ok, battery indicator lamp intransmitter will light whentransmitting) or to synchronize thesystem, see Testing Infrared RemoteControl in Index.

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Closing Windows and Sliding/ Pop-Up Roof from Outside

Continue to press transmit button (1)after locking car. Distance to receivermax. 20 ft. (6 m).

The windows and sliding/pop-up roofbegin to close after approx. 1 second.

Warning!

Never close the windows orsliding/pop-up roof if there is thepossibility of anyone being harmedby the closing procedure.

In case the closing procedure causespotential danger, the closingprocedure can be immediatelyreversed by releasing and pressingthe remote control button again untilthe green indicator lamp at thereceiver blinks. The sliding/pop-uproof and windows will open again.The sliding/pop-up roof will onlyopen if it was not fully closed.

Note:

If the side windows and sliding/ pop-uproof cannot be opened automatically byusing the key or by pressing thetransmit button of the infrared remotecontrol (e.g. after a battery change),press side of power windowswitch in center console until thewindow is completely closed and holdfor additional 2 seconds. Repeatprocedure for each window.

The automatic closing procedure of thewindows and sliding/pop-up roofshould now be restored.

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Central Locking System

The entire vehicle may be locked orunlocked by either using the masterkey in the door or trunk locks, orcentral locking switch located in centerconsole. The central locking systemalso locks or unlocks the fuel filler flap.

Note:

If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened,refer to Fuel Filler Flap, ManualRelease (see Index).

Doors

1 Opening - pull handle2 Unlocking3 Locking4 Individual door from inside:

• Push lock button down tolock.

• Pull lock button up to unlock.

Central locking switch

When you lock the car, all door lockbuttons should move down. If any onestays up, the respective door is notproperly closed.

You should then unlock the car, openand reclose this door, and lock the caragain. Each individual door can belocked with door lock button - thedriver's door can only be locked whenit is closed.

31

The doors can only be locked with thecentral locking switch, if the frontdoors are closed.

The doors cannot be unlocked with thecentral locking switch, if car waspreviously locked from outside.

The entire car is unlocked with thecentral locking switch, if a front door isopened.

If the car has previously been lockedfrom the outside, only the door beingopened from the inside will unlock, theremaining doors, the trunk lid and fuelfiller flap remain locked. 1 Neutral position -

push to open2 Unlocking3 Locking (detent)4 Separate locking of trunk -

remove key in this position.

When the trunk is separatelylocked, it remains locked whenunlocking any door.

To deny any unauthorized personaccess to the trunk, lock itseparately. Leave only the valetkey with the vehicle.

Notes:

In case of a malfunction in the centrallocking system the doors and trunk canbe locked and unlocked individually.To lock, turn key to position 3 or pushdown lock buttons.

To unlock, turn key to position 2 orpull up lock buttons.

The trunk lid can be lowered by usingthe recessed grips in the trunk lid liner,and closed with the dirt-free retractinghandle.

If the trunk lid cannot be closed, referto Trunk Lid, Manual Closing (seeIndex).

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Door lock, left and trunk lock

Power Windows and Sliding/Pop-Up Roof

1 Closing2 Interrupting3 Opening

Door lock, right

When locking doors or trunk, turn keyin door lock or trunk lock to position 1and hold. The windows and thesliding/pop-up roof begin to closeautomatically after approximately 1second.

To interrupt the closing procedure, turnkey to position 2.

Warning!

Never close the windows orsiding/pop-up roof if there is thepossiblity of anyone being harmed bythe closing procedure.

In case the closing procedure causespotential danger, the closingprocedure can be immediatelyreversed by turning the key to theunlocking position (3) within 10seconds. The sliding/pop-up roof andwindows will open again. Thesliding/pop-up roof will only open ifit was not fully closed.

Note:

If the closing procedure is interrupted,it can only be continued by first turningthe key to the unlocked position (3) andthen again to the locking position (1)and hold.

33

Power Closing Assist for Doors andTrunk Lid

The doors and trunk lid closeautomatically if:

• doors are pushed against the lock,• trunk lid is lowered against the lock.

It is not necessary to slam doors ortrunk lid closed, a pneumatic power-assisted mechanism will latch doorsand trunk lid quietly and automaticallyonce the lid or door has been broughtto a close. When the pneumatic power-assisted mechanism has stopped,doors and/or trunk can be reopened.

Note:

If the trunk lid does not close, refer toTrunk Lid, Manual Closing in Index.

Warning!

To prevent possible personal injury,always keep hands and fingers awayfrom the door or trunk openingwhen closing a door or the trunklid. Be especially careful when smallchildren are around.

The pneumatic power closing assistmechanism cannot be interruptedonce it has been engaged.

To prevent personal injury, neveractivate the closing assistmechanism by tampering with thedoor or trunk lidlatch.

34

1 Indicator lamp in switch located incenter console

Anti-Theft Alarm System

The anti-theft alarm is automaticallyarmed or disarmed with any of yourvehicle's keys or infrared remotecontrol by locking or unlocking eitherfront door or the trunk.

A blinking lamp (1) indicates that thealarm is armed. Now the engine cannotbe started.

The anti-theft alarm is disarmed whenunlocking either front door or the trunkwith any of your vehicle's keys orinfrared remote control.

Operation

Once the alarm system has beenarmed, the exterior vehicle lamps willflash and the horn will soundintermittently when someone:

• opens a door,• opens the trunk,• opens the hood,• removes the radio,• switches on or bridges the ignition

circuit,• steps on the brake pedal.

The alarm will last approximately 150seconds in the form of blinking exteriorlamps. At the same time an alarm hornwill sound intermittently for 60seconds, pause for 30 seconds, andrepeat for another 60 seconds.The alarm will stay on even if theactivating element (a door, forexample) is immediately closed.

Note:

We recommend that you carry the flatkey safely with you so that it is alwayshandy. The flat key has the samefunctions as the master key.

35

Power Seats, Front

The slide switches are located in eachfront door.

Turn key in steering lock to position 1or 2 (with the driver's or frontpassenger's door open, the powerseats can also be operated with the keyremoved or in steering lock position 0).

Seat and head restraint adjustment:

A Seat, fore/aft, up/down

B Seat tilt

C Seat cushion depth

D Backrest tilt

E Head restraint Adjust head restraintto support the back of the headapproximately at ear level. The headrestraint inclination can also beadjusted manually.

Note:

Your car is equipped with powerhead restraints, do not try to raise orlower them manually.

Warning!

Do not adjust the driver's seat whiledriving. Adjusting the seat whiledriving could cause the driver to losecontrol of the vehicle.

Never ride in a moving vehicle withthe seat back reclined. Sitting in anexcessively reclined position can bedangerous. You could slide under theseat belt in a collision. If you sideunder it, the belt would apply forceat the abdomen or neck. That couldcause serious or even fatal injuries.The seat back and seat belts providethe best restraint when the wearer isin an upright position and belts areproperly positioned on the body.

Never place hands under seat ornear any moving parts while a seat isbeing adjusted.

36

F Memory button

G Position buttons

Storing seat/head restraint/ steeringwheel/exterior and inside rear viewmirror positions in memory:

Three sets of seat/head restraint/steering wheel/exterior and inside rearview mirror positions may beprogrammed into memory. After theseat/head restraint/steeringwheel/exterior and inside rear viewmirrors are positioned, push memorybutton F, release, and within 3 secondspush position button "1". A second andthird set of positions for the sameseat/ head restraint/steering wheel/exterior and inside rear view mirrorscan be programmed into memory bypushing first button "F" and then "2",respectively "3".

Note:

See Index for instructions onadjustment of steering wheel andmirrors.

Recalling seat/head restraint/ steeringwheel/exterior and inside rear viewmirror positions stored in memory:

To recall a seat/head restraint/steering wheel/exterior and inside rearview mirror position, push and holdposition button "1", "2" or "3" untilseat/head restraint/ steeringwheel/exterior and inside rear viewmirror movement has stopped. Theseat/head restraint/ steeringwheel/exterior and inside rear viewmirror movement stops when theposition button is released.

Caution!

Do not remove head restraints exceptwhen mounting seat covers. Forremoval and installation refer to HeadRestraints, Removal in Index.Whenever restraints have beenremoved be sure to reinstall thembefore driving.

37

Important!

Bring seat backrest to upright positionbefore recalling a stored seat/headrestraint/steering wheel/exterior andinside rear view mirror position,otherwise the front seats could getforced against a rear seat and bedamaged.

Prior to operating the vehicle, thedriver should adjust the seat height forproper vision as well as fore/aftplacement and seat back angle to insureadequate control, reach, operation, andcomfort. The head restraint should alsobe adjusted for proper height.

Both the inside and outside rearview mirrors should be adjusted foradequate rearward vision.

Fasten seat belts. Infants and smallchildren should be seated in a properlysecured restraint system that complieswith U.S. Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standard 213 and CanadianMotor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.1.

All seat, head restraint, and rear viewmirror adjustments as well as fasteningof seat belts should be done before thevehicle is put into motion.

38

Lumbar Support1 Pressure regulator

The seats have an inflatable aircushion built into the backrest toprovide additional lumbar support.The inflation pressure of the aircushion can be continuously variedbetween position "0" = withoutpressure, and position "5" = maximumpressure, by changing the pressureregulator (1) setting.

Multicontour Backrest

1 Height regulator2 Pressure regulator3 Side bolster adjustment

The seats have inflatable air cushionsbuilt into the backrest to provideadditional lumbar and side support.The amount of cushion height andcurvature may be adjusted after turningthe key in steering lock to position 2.

BottomCenterTop

can be selected together withor

The inflation pressure of the aircushion can be continuously variedbetween position "0" = withoutpressure, and position "5" = maximumpressure, by changing the pressureregulator (2) setting.

The side bolsters of the backrest canbe adjusted with push button (3):

• pushing forward -increase side support,

• pushing backward -decrease side support.

If the engine is turned off, the lastcushion setting is retained in memory,and automatically adjusts the cushionto this setting when the engine isrestarted.

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Heated Seats

The front seat heater switches arelocated to the left and right side of thecenter console ashtray.

The rear seat heater switches arelocated in each rear door.

The front seat heaters can be switchedon with the key in steering lockpositions 1 or 2, the rear seat heatersonly in steering lock position 2.

Press switch to turn on heater:

1 Normal heating mode. Oneindicator lamp in the switchlights up.

2 Rapid heating mode. Bothindicator lamps in the switchlight up.After approximately 5 minutes inthe rapid heating mode, the heaterautomatically switches to normaloperation and only one indicatorlamp will stay on.

Turning off heater:

If one indicator lamp is on, pressupper half of switch.

If both indicator lamps are on,press lower half of switch.

If left on, the heater automaticallyturns off after approximately 30minutes of operation.

Note:

When in operation, the seat heaterconsumes a large amount of power. Itis advisable not to use the seat heaterlonger than necessary.

The seat heaters may automaticallyswitch off if too many power consumersare switched on at the same time, or ifthe battery charge is low. When thisoccurs, the indicator lamp in the switchwill blink (both indicator lamps blinkduring rapid seat heating). The seatheaters will switch on againautomatically as soon as sufficientvoltage is available.

If the blinking of the indicator lamps isdistracting to you, the seat heaters canbe switched off.

40

Armrest with Compartmentfor Telephone Handset(Front Seats)

1 Armrest folded down2 Normal use

(3 comfort positions)3 Armrest folded up

Folding down:

Raise armrest past top comfort positionand push down.Adjusting height:

Raise armrest to desired position.

Press button (4) to open cover.

Note:

The cover cannot be opened witharmrest raised above the top comfortposition.

Warning!

The armrest does not suffice as achild restraint system. In case of afrontal collision a child can becatapulted forward over the lockedarmrest. Infants and small childrenshould always be seated in aproperly secured restraint systemthat complies with U.S. FederalMotor Vehicle Safety Standard 213and Canadian Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard 213.1.

41

.

Power Seats, Rear

The seats can be adjusted using theslide switches located in either of therear doors.

Turn key in steering lock to position1 or 2 (with the driver's or frontpassenger's door open, the power seatscan also be operated with the keyremoved or in steering lock position 0).

Seat Bench

1 Backrest tilt

Individual Seats

1 Backrest tiltThe seat cushion moves fore/afttogether with the inclination of thebackrest.

2 Seat tilt

42

Armrest with Integrated StorageCompartment (Rear Bench Seat)

Pull down the armrest by its strap.Before storing the armrest in thebackrest, close its storage com-partment lid.

For the removal of the Rear SeatCushion, see Index.

Head Restraints, Rear(Vehicles without rear power seats)

Turn key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2.

Press symbol-side of rocker switch torelease the head restraints. The headrestraints will then fold backward forincreased visibility.

Placing head restraints upright:Pull head restraint forward by its strapuntil it locks in position.inclination of head restraints:The head restraint inclination can beadjusted manually.

Important!

For safety reasons, always drive withthe rear head restraints in the uprightposition when the rear seats areoccupied.

Keep area around head restraints clearof articles (e.g. clothing) to not obstructthe folding operation of the headrestraints.

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Switch on center console

Power Head Restraints, Rear

Turn key in steering lock to position 1or 2 (with the driver's or frontpassenger's door open, the power headrestraints can also be operated with thekey removed or in steering lock position0).

Activate switch:1 Place head restraint upright.2 Fold head restraint backward.

Switches in rear doorsSwitch in center console:

Both head restraints together can beplaced in either upright or fold-downposition.

Switches in rear doors:The head restraints can be placedindividually in either upright or fold-down position.

Inclination of head restraints:The head restraint inclination can beadjusted manually.

Important!

For safety reasons, always drive withthe rear head restraints in the uprightposition when the rear seats areoccupied.

Keep area around head restraints clearof articles (e.g. clothing) to not obstructthe folding operation of the headrestraints.

44

Adjustable Steering Wheel

Turn key in steering lock to position 1or 2 (with the driver's or frontpassenger's door open, the steeringwheel can also be operated with thekey removed or in steering lockposition 0).

To lengthen or shorten the steeringcolumn, push in or pull out switch (1).

To raise or lower steering wheel, pushswitch (1) up or down.

Note:

The steering wheel position can bestored in memory together with theseat/head restraint/exterior andinside rear view mirror positions, seeIndex.

Warning!

Do not adjust the steering wheelwhile driving. Adjusting thesteering wheel while driving couldcause the driver to lose control ofthe vehicle.

45

Seat Belts and SupplementalRestraint System (SRS)

Your vehicle is equipped with lap-shoulder seat belts, emergencytensioning retractors for the seat belts,driver airbag and knee bolster andpassenger airbag and knee bolster.

Seat Belts

Important!

Laws in most states and all Canadianprovinces require seat belt use.All states and provinces require use ofchild restraints that comply with U.S.Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard213 and Canadian Motor VehicleSafety Standard 213.1.

We strongly recommend their use.

Warning!

Never ride in a moving vehicle withthe seat back reclined. Sitting in anexcessively reclined position can bedangerous. You could slide underthe seat belt in a collision. If youslide under it, the belt would applyforce at the abdomen or neck. Thatcould cause serious or even fatalinjuries. The seat back and seatbelts provide the best restraintwhen the wearer is in an uprightposition and belts are properlypositioned on the body.

Seat Belt Warning System

With the key in steering lock position2, an audible warning sounds for a shorttime if the driver's seat belt is notfastened.

If you are ever in an accident, yourinjuries can be considerably moresevere without your seat beltproperly buckled. Without your seatbelt buckled, you can hit theinterior of the vehicle or be ejectedfrom it. You can be seriously in-jured or killed.

In the same crash, the possibilityfor injury or death is lessened withyour seat belt buckled.

46

1 Latch plate2 Buckle3 Release button

Fastening of Seat Belts

Push latch plate (1) into buckle (2)until it clicks.

The lap belt should be positioned aslow as possible on your hips and notacross the abdomen.Three-point seat belt:Tighten the lap portion to a snugfit by pulling shoulder portion up.Rear center seat belt: Tighten to a snugfit by feeding belt toward retractor.

Adjust seat belt so that shoulderportion is located as close as possibleto the middle of your shoulder. Do nottwist the belt.

The shoulder portion of the seat beltmust be pulled snug and checked forsnugness immediately after engagingit.The height setting for the shoulderportion of the front seat belts areautomatically adjusted by the fore/ aftmovement of the front seat.Seat moved to front: Belt outlet fullylowered.Seat moved to rear: Belt outlet fullyraised.

For safety reasons, avoid adjusting theseat or seat back into positions whichcould affect the correct seat beltposition.

Unfastening of Seat Belts

Push the release button (3) in the beltbuckle (2).

Allow the retractor to completelyrewind the seat belt by guiding thelatch plate (1).

Notes:The rear seat belt buckles can be storedin the space next to the rear armrest (tothe left and right of armrest). The rearcenter seat belt should be latched andstored under the armrest.

For cleaning and care of the seat belts,see Upholstery in Index.

Operation:The inertia reel stops the belt fromunwinding during sudden vehicle stopsor when quickly pulling on the belt.

The locking function of the reel maybe checked by quickly pulling out thebelt.

47

Warning!

USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY.

• Each occupant should wear theirseat belt at all times. Togetherwith the "SRS", the seat beltoffers the best conditions forprotection of the body in case ofmajor frontal impact.

• Improperly positioned seat beltsdo not provide maximumprotection and may cause seriousinjuries in case of an accident.

• Never wear the shoulder beltunder your arm, against yourneck or off your shoulder. In acrash, your body would move toofar forward. That would increasethe chance of head and neckinjuries. The belt would alsoapply too much force to the ribs,which could severely injureinternal organs such as your liveror spleen.

• Position the lap belt as lowas possible on your hips and notacross the abdomen. If the belt ispositioned across your abdomen,it could cause serious injuries in acrash.

• Each seat belt should never beused for more than one person ata time.

• Belts should not be worn twisted.In a crash, you wouldn't have thefull width of the belt to takeimpact forces. The twisted beltagainst your body could causeinjuries.

• Pregnant women should also use alap-shoulder belt. The lap beltportion should be positioned aslow as possible on the hips toavoid any possible pressure onthe abdomen.

USE CHILD RESTRAINTSPROPERLY.

• Infants and small children mustbe seated in an infant or childrestraint system,

which is properly secured by a lapbelt or lap belt portion of a lap-shoulder belt. Children could be endangered in an accident if theirchild restraints are not properlysecured in the vehicle.

• Rear-facing child restraints mustnot be used in the front seat witha passenger side airbag. Theycould be struck by the airbagwhen it inflates in a crash. If thishappens, a child in the restraintcould be seriously injured.

• According to accident statistics,children are safer when properlyrestrained in the rear seatingpositions than in the front seatingpositions.

• Children too big for childrestraint systems should useregular seat belts. Positionshoulder belt across chest andshoulder, not face or neck. Abooster seat may be necessary toachieve proper belt positioning.

48

Supplemental Restraint System(SRS)

The SRS uses two crash severity levels(thresholds) to activate either the ETRor airbag or both. Activation dependson exceeding the thresholds andfastening of the seat belt.

Seat belt fastened

• first threshold exceeded:ETR activates

• second threshold exceeded:airbag also activates

Seat belt not fastened

• first threshold exceeded: airbagactivates, but not ETR

Driver and front passenger systemsoperate independently from each other.

Emergency TensioningRetractor (ETR)

The seat belts are equipped withemergency tensioning retractors. Thesetensioning retractors are located in eachbelt's inertia reel and becomeoperationally ready with the key insteering lock position 1 or 2.

The emergency tensioning retractorsare designed to activate only when theseat belts are fastened during majorfrontal impacts within the shaded areashown. They tighten the belts in such away that they fit more snugly againstthe body, restricting its forwardmovement as much as possible.

In cases of other frontal impacts, roll-overs, certain side impacts, rearcollisions, or other accidents withoutfrontal forces, the emergencytensioning retractors will not beactivated. The driver and passengerwill then be protected by the fastenedseat belts and inertia reel in the usualmanner.

For seat belt and emergency tensioningretractor safety guidelines, see SafetyGuidelines in Index.

49

Airbags

The most effective occupant restraintsystem yet developed for use inproduction vehicles is the three pointseat belt. In some cases, however, theprotective effect of a seat belt can befurther enhanced by an airbag.

The driver airbag (1) is located in thesteering wheel hub. The passengerairbag (2) is located in the dashboardahead of the passenger. In conjunctionwith wearing the seat belts withemergency tensioning retractors (4),they provide increased protection forthe driver and passenger.

The operational readiness of the airbagsystem is verified by the indicatorlamp "SRS" (3) in the instrumentcluster. If no fault is detected, the lampwill go out after approximately 4seconds; after the lamp goes out, thesystem continues to monitor thecomponents and circuitry of the airbagsystem and will indicate a malfunctionby coming on again.

50

The following system components aremonitored or undergo a self-check:crash-sensor, airbag ignition circuits,driver and passenger seat belt buckles.Initially, when the key is turned fromsteering lock position 0 to positions 1 or2, malfunctions in the crash-sensor aredetected and indicated (the "SRS"indicator lamp stays on longer than 4seconds).

In the operational mode, after theindicator lamp has gone out followingthe initial check, interruptions and shortcircuits in the airbag ignition circuit andin the driver and passenger seat beltbuckle harnesses, and low voltage in theentire system are detected andindicated.

In the event a malfunction of the "SRS"is indicated as outlined above, the"SRS" may not be operational. Westrongly recommend that you visit anauthorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealerimmediately to have the systemchecked; otherwise the "SRS" may notbe activated in a major frontal accident.

Important!

The airbags are designed to activateonly in certain frontal and front-angled impacts (within the shadedarea shown in the illustration onpage 44). Only during these types ofimpacts will they provide theirsupplemental protection. The driverand passenger should always wearthe seat belts; otherwise it is notpossible for the airbags to providetheir intended supplementalprotection.

In cases of other frontal impacts,roll-overs, certain side impacts, rearcollisions, or other accidents withoutfrontal forces, the airbag will not beactivated. The driver and passengerswill then be protected by the fastenedseat belts.

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Important!

The "SRS" is designed to reduce thepotential of injury in certain frontaland front-angled impacts which maycause injuries; however, no systemavailable today can totally eliminateinjuries and fatalities.

The activation of the "SRS"temporarily releases a small amountof dust from the air-bags. This dust,however, is neither injurious to yourhealth, nor does it indicate a fire inthe vehicle.

The service life of the airbagsextends to the date indicated on thelabel located on the driver-side doorlatch post To provide continuedreliability after that date, they shouldbe inspected by an authorizedMERCEDES-BENZ dealer at thattime and replaced when necessary.

Warning!

It is very important for your safetyto always be in a properly seatedposition.

For maximum protection in theevent of a collision always be innormal seated position with yourback against the seat back. Fastenyour seat belt and ensure that it isproperly positioned on the body.

Since the airbag inflates withconsiderable speed and force, aproper seating position will keepyou in a safe distance from theairbag:

• Sit properly belted in anupright position with yourback against the seat back.

• Do not lean with your heador chest close to the steeringwheel or dashboard.

• Adjust the passenger seatas far as possible rearwardfrom the dashboard,especially when a childrestraint is installed.

• Infants and small childrenshould only be seated in aninfant or child restraintwhich is properly securedby the seat belt.

• Rear-facing child restraintsmust not be used in a frontseat.

Failure to follow these instructionscan result in severe injuries to you orother occupants.

52

Safety Guidelines for the Seat Belt,Emergency Tensioning Retractorand Airbag

Warning!

• Damaged belts or belts that werehighly stressed in an accidentmust be replaced and theiranchoring points must also bechecked. Use only belts installedor supplied by an authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

• Do not pass belts over sharpedges.

• Do not make any modificationthat could change theeffectiveness of the belts.

• The "SRS" is designed tofunction on a one-time-onlybasis. An airbag or emergency

tensioning retractor (ETR) thatwas activated must be replaced.

• No modifications of any kindmay be made to any componentsor wiring of the "SRS". Thisincludes the installation ofadditional trim material, badgesetc. over the steering wheel hubor front passenger airbagcover and installation ofadditional electrical/electronicequipment on or near "SRS"components and wiring.

• Several airbag systemcomponents at the steeringwheel get hot after the air-bag has inflated. Don't try totouch them.

• Improper work on the system,including incorrect installationand removal, can lead to possibleinjury through an uncontrolledactivation of the "SRS".

• In addition, through improperwork there is the risk ofrendering the "SRS"inoperative. Work on the "SRS"must therefore only beperformed by an authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

• When scrapping the airbagunit or emergency tensioningretractor, it is mandatoryto follow our safety instructions. These instructions areavailable at your authorizedMercedes-Benz dealer.

When you sell the vehicle we stronglyurge you to give notice to the subsequentowner that it is equipped with an "SRS"by alerting him to the applicable sectionin the Owner's Manual.

53

Infants and Child RestraintSystems

We recommend that all infants andchildren be restrained at all times whilethe vehicle is in motion.

Important!

The use of infant or child restraints isrequired by law in all 50 states and allCanadian provinces.

Infants and small children should beseated in an infant or child restraintsystem, which is properly secured bythe lap belt portion of the lap-shoulderbelt, and that complies with U.S.Federal Motor Safety Standard 213 andCanadian Motor Vehicle SafetyStandard 213.1.A statement by the child restraintmanufacturer of compliance with thisstandard can be found on theinstruction label on the restraint and inthe instruction manual provided withthe restraint.

When using any infant or childrestraint system, be sure to carefullyread and follow all manufacturer'sinstructions for installation and use.

Warning!

According to accident statistics,children are safer when properlyrestrained in the rear seatingpositions than in the front seatingpositions.

Rear-facing child restraints must notbe used in a front seat with apassenger side airbag. They could bestruck by the airbag when if inflatesin a crash. If this happens, a child inthe restraint could be seriouslyinjured.

Infants and small children shouldnever be held on the lap while thevehicle is in motion. During anaccident they would be almost impos-sible to hold, and could be crushedbetween the adult and the dashboard.

Infants and small children shouldnever share a seat belt with anotheroccupant. During an accident, theycould be crushed between theoccupant and seat belt.

Children too big for child restraintsystems should use regular seat belts.Position the shoulder belt across thechest and shoulder, not the face orneck. A booster seat may benecessary to achieve proper beltpositioning.

When the child restraint is not inuse, remove it from the car orsecure it with the seat belt toprevent the child restraint frombecoming a projectile in the event ofan accident.

U.S.A. Models onlySince 1986 all U.S. child restraintscomply with U.S. regulations withoutthe use of a tether strap.

Canada Models only

This vehicle can be equipped withtether anchorages for a top tether strap.Consult your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for installation of theseanchorages.

In compliance with Canadian MotorVehicle Safety Standard 210.1, childrestraint tether anchorage hardwareis attached to the tool kit located inthe trunk.

54

Steering Lock

0 The key can be withdrawn in thisposition only. The steering islocked with the key removedfrom the steering lock. The keycan be removed only with theselector lever in position "P".After removing the key or withthe key in steering lock position 0,the selector lever is locked inposition "P".

1 Steering is unlocked.(If necessary, move steering wheelslightly to allow the key to beturned clockwise to position 1.)Most electrical consumers can beoperated. For detailed informationsee respective subjects.

2 Driving position.3 Starting position.

Refer to Index for Starting and turningoff engine.

Warning!When leaving the vehicle alwaysremove the key from the steeringlock. Do not leave childrenunattended in the vehicle.Unsupervised use of vehicleequipment may cause seriouspersonal injury.

Notes:

The following items can be operatedwith the key in steering lockposition 1:

wiper,headlamp flasher,lighter,glove box lamp,sound system (also in position 0),sliding roof,

rear window defroster,power windows,power seats, front,heated seats, front,adjustable steering wheel.

An audible warning will sound whenthe driver's door is opened with the keyin steering lock position 1 or 0.

With the engine at idle speed, thecharging rate of the alternator (output)is limited.

It is therefore recommended to turn offunnecessary electrical consumers whiledriving in stop-and-go traffic. Thisprecaution helps to avoid draining ofthe battery.

Unnecessary strain on the battery andcharging system may be minimized byturning off the following powerconsumers, for example: Heated seats,rear window defroster. In addition, theautomatic climate air volume controlshould be set to "MIN".

55

Combination Switch

1 Low beam (exterior lampswitch position )

2 High beam (exterior lampswitch position )

3 High beam flasher (high beamavailable independent ofexterior lamp switch position)

4 Turn signals, right5 Turn signals, left

To signal minor directional changes,such as changing lanes on a highway,move combination switch to the pointof resistance only and hold it there.

To operate the turn signalscontinuously, move the combinationswitch past the point of resistance (up ordown). The switch is automaticallycanceled when the steering wheel isturned to a large enough degree.

6 Press switch briefly:One wipe without washer water(select only if window is wet)Pressswitch past resistance point:Windshield washer, windshieldwiper; headlamp cleaning system(only in exterior lamp switchpositions or Canada only:also in position when the engine isrunning)

7 Windshield wiper0 Wiper offI Intermittent wipingII Normal wiper speedIII Fast wiper speedWhen coming to a stop or drivingslower than approx. 20 km/h (13mph), the wiper speed automaticallyswitches to the next lower setting.In setting "I", the interval betweenwipes is lengthened.Upon accelerating again, the wiperspeed returns to the previous setting.

Note:

The windshield washer reservoir,hoses and nozzles are automaticallyheated.

56

Windshield Washer Fluid MixingRatio

For temperatures above freezing:

MB Windshield WasherConcentrate "S" and water

1 part "S" to 100 parts water(40 ml "S" to 1 gallon water).

For temperature below freezing:

MB Windshield Washer Concentrate"S" and commercially availablepremixed windshield washersolvent/antifreeze

1 part "S" to 100 parts solvent(40 ml "S" to 1 gallon solvent),

Windshield Wiper Smears

If the windshield wiper smears thewindshield, even during rain, activatethe washer system as often asnecessary. The fluid in the washerreservoir should be mixed in the correctratio.

Blocked Windshield Wiper

If the windshield wiper becomesblocked (for example, due to snow),switch off the wiper motor.

For safety reasons before removing iceor snow, remove key from steeringlock. Remove blockage.

Activate combination switch again(key in steering lock position 1).

Emergency Operation ofWindshield Wiper

In case of windshield wipermalfunction, turn combination switchto wiper setting II.

Have the system checked at yourauthorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealeras soon as possible.

Signaling Turns with HazardFlasher in Use

For example, when the vehicle isbeing towed:

With hazard flasher on, activatecombination switch for left or rightturn signal - only the selected turnsignal will blink.

Upon canceling the turn signal, all fourturn signals will operate again.

Turn Signal Failure

If one of the turn signals fails, the turnsignal indicator system flashes andsounds at a faster than normal rate. Inaddition, the exterior lamp failureindicator will come on.

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Exterior Lamp Switch

Canada only:

When the engine is running, the lowbeam (includes parking lamps, sidemarker lamps, taillamps, license platelamps and instrument panel lamps) areautomatically switched on.

Note:

For nighttime driving the exterior lampswitch should be turned to position IDto permit activation of the highbeam headlamps.

Off

Parking lamps (also sidemarker lamps, taillamps,license plate lamps,instrument panel lamps)Canada only: When theengine is running, the lowbeam is additionallyswitched on.Parking lamps plus lowbeam or high beamheadlamps (combinationswitch pushed forward)Standing lamps, right(turn left one stop)Standing lamps, left(turn left two stops)

Fog lamps(pull out one stop) withparking and/orheadlamps onRear fog lamp (pull out to2nd detent) in addition tofog lamps. Indicator lamp inlamp switch comes on.

Standing Lamps

When the vehicle is parked on thestreet the standing lamps (right or leftside parking lamps) can be turned on,making the vehicle more visible topassing vehicles.

The standing lamps cannot beoperated with the key in steering lockposition 2.

Note:With the key removed and a front dooropen, an audible warning will sound ifthe vehicle's exterior lamps (exceptstanding lamps) are not switched off.Fog lamps will operate with theparking lamps and the low or highbeam headlamps. Fog lamps shouldonly be used in conjunction with lowbeam headlamps. Consult your stateMotor Vehicle Regulations regardingallowable lamp operation.

Fog lamps are automatically switchedoff when the exterior lamp, switch isturned to position O .

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Inside and Exterior Rear ViewMirrors

Inside Rear View Mirror

The mirror is electricallyadjustable.

Use your inside mirror to determine thesize and distance of objects seen in thepassenger side convex mirror.

The switch is located on the centerconsole.

Turn switch to position steering lock toposition 2 (with either front door open,the mirror can be operated with keyremoved or in steering lock position 0or 1).

Turn switch to position

To adjust, move the switch forward,backward or to either side.

Antiglare Night Position

Manual adjustment

Tilt the mirror to the antiglare nightposition using the lever at its lower edge.

Automatic adjustment

With the key in steering lock position2, the mirror responds to changes inlight sensitivity.

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Exterior rear view mirror, leftExterior rear view mirror,right

Exterior Rear View Mirrors

Turn key in steering lock to position 2(with either front door open, themirrors can be operated with keyremoved or in steering lockposition 0 or 1).

Turn switch to select the mirror to beadjusted.

To adjust, move the switch forward,backward or to either side.

Note:

The exterior mirrors have electricallyheated glass. The heater switches onautomatically, depending on outsidetemperature.

If an exterior mirror housing is forciblypivoted from its normal position, itmust be repositioned by applying firmpressure until it snaps into place.

Warning!

Exercise care when using thepassenger-side mirror. Thepassenger-side exterior mirror isconvex (outwardly curved surfacefor a wider field of view). Objects inmirror are closer than they appear.Check your inside rear view mirroror glance over your shoulder beforechanging lanes.

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Exterior Rear View MirrorMultiple Images

This vehicle is equipped with anti-fogging dual-pane side windows toprovide extra insulation against heat,cold and noise. Because of the secondpane of glass, under certain light andweather conditions a multiple imagemay become noticable, especially whenlooking through the side windows at anoutside rear view mirror.

Storing Mirror Positions inMemory

The exterior and inside rear viewmirror positions are stored in memorywith the seat/head restraint/ steeringcolumn position and can be recalledwhen necessary, see Index.

Note:

If the inside rear view mirror wasadjusted separately, the originallystored position remains in memory.To recall position, press the desiredposition button.

Folding the mirrors in

Turn switch to point rearward. Pressswitch rearward until the mirrors arefolded in.

Important!

Before running the vehicle through anautomatic car wash, fold mirror in,otherwise they may get damaged.

Folding the mirrors out

Turn switch to point rearward. Pressswitch forward until the mirrors arefolded out.

Important!

Do not fold mirrors out, forcing themby hand. This will damage theoperating mechanism of the mirrors.

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Sun Visors

Swing sun visors down to protectagainst sun glare.

If sunlight enters through a sidewindow, disengage visor from innermounting and pivot to theside. From this position, the visor canslide forward and backward on itsshaft.

Illuminated Vanity Mirrors

Front seats:

With the visor engaged in its innermounting, the lamp can be switchedon by opening the cover.

Roar seats:

Touch the cover to lower the mirror.The lamp will switch on automatically.

Close the cover and the lamp will goout.

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Interior Lighting

1 Interior Lamps (Door contact)

A B

A Interior lamps are switched on,and off delayed, when unlockingor locking the vehicle, or whenopening or closing either frontdoor. However, there will be nodelay when the key is in steeringlock position 2.

B Interior lamps switched off.

2 Interior Lamps

A B

A Interior lamps switched off.B Interior lamps switched on,

3 Rear Courtesy Lamps

A B

A Courtesy lamps switched off.B Courtesy lamps switched on.

Note:

The courtesy lamps cannot beswitched off as long as a rear door isopen.

4 Reading Lamps, Front

A

B

A Reading lamp switched off.B Reading lamp switched on.

5 Reading Lamps, Rear

The lamps are switched on and offindividually with a switch in therespective lamp.

Entrance Lamps, Exit Lamps

The lamps are switched on and off bythe door contact switches.

Note:

To prevent the vehicle battery frombeing discharged, do not leave doorsopen for a long period of time.

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Storage Compartments

Storage Compartmentsin the Dashboard

1 Storage/eyeglassescompartment

2 Button for storage/eyeglasses compartment

3 Glove box

4 Button for glove box

5 Lock

Storage/EyeglassesCompartment

To open: Press button (2).

Glove Box

The glove box lid is equipped with acontainer for coins and smallaccessories.

To open: Press button (4).

Note:The storage compartments may belocked and unlocked by using themaster key in lock (5).

Locking:Turn master key in lock (5) to the rightand remove.

Unlocking:Turn master key back to verticalposition.

Storage Compartment betweenRear Seats

Lock only when compartment is fullyclosed, otherwise the lock may getdamaged.

Storage Compartmentsin the Door

6 Door pocketTo open: Fold down cover.

7 Compartment for compact umbrella.

Caution!

Keep compartment lids closed. Thiswill prevent stored objects from beingthrown about and injuring vehicleoccupants during an accident.

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in center console, front

Ashtrays

By touching the top of the coverlightly, the ashtray opens automatically.Prior to removing the ashtray insertmove gear selector lever to position"N"

Warning!

With the gear selector lever inposition "N", turn off the engine andset the parking brake. Otherwise thevehicle might move unintentionally.

in rear doors

To remove ashtray from centerconsole:

Push sliding knob (1) toward theright to eject the insert.

To remove ashtray from rear door:Hold left and right side of insert andpull up.

To install ashtray:Install insert into ashtray frameand push down to engage.

Lighter

Turn key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2.Push in lighter (1); it will pop outautomatically when hot.

Warning!

Never touch the heating element orsides of the lighter, hold at knob only.

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Sliding Roof with Rear Pop-UpFeature

1 to slide roof open2 to slide roof closed3 to raise roof at rear4 to lower roof at rear

Turn key in steering lock to position1 or 2 (with either front door open,the sliding/pop-up roof can beoperated with key removed or insteering lock position 0).

The switch is illuminated when theexterior lamps are switched on(except standing lamps).

Glass Sliding Roof with RearPop-Up Feature

An additional screen can be slid intothe roof opening to guard against sunrays. When sliding the roof open, thescreen will also retract.

Warning!

When closing the sliding roof, besure that there is no danger ofanyone being harmed by the closingprocedure.

Notes:

The sliding roof can be opened orclosed manually should an electricalmalfunction occur, refer to EmergencyOperation in Index.

The sliding roof can also be closedwith the key or infrared remote controlwhile locking the vehicle doors ortrunk (see Central Locking System inIndex).

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in center console, front

Power Windows

Switches for:

2 left, front3 left, rear4 right, front5 right, rear6 safety switch7 individual switches (rear doors)

in rear doors

Turn key in steering lock toposition 1 or 2.

Press switch in to resistance point:

to closeto open

Release switch when window is indesired position.

Express Opening and Closing

Press switch or pastresistance point and release - windowopens or closes completely.

To interrupt procedure, brieflypress orIf the upward movement of thewindow is blocked during the closingprocedure, the window will stop duringthe last few inches before closure andopen slightly.

When pressing and holding the switchto close the window, and upwardmovement of the window is blockedduring the last few inches beforeclosure, it will stop but not openslightly.

Blocking of Rear Door WindowOperation

If no operation of the rear windows byswitch (6) (for instance by children) isdesired, slide safety switch (5) to right,symbol becomes visible.

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Warning!

When closing the windows, be surethat there is no danger of anyonebeing harmed by the closingprocedure.

In case of obstruction, the automaticreversal will not operate if a windowis being closed by pressing the switchto its resistance point and holding itthere, or when using a key or theremote control.

The closing procedure can beimmediately reversed by eitherpressing the switch , turning thekey to the unlocking position, orreleasing and pressing the transmitbutton, and holding it.

The power windows can also be closedwith the key or infrared remote controlwhile locking the vehicle doors ortrunk (see Central Locking System inIndex).

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle, alwaysremove the key from the steeringlock. Do not leave childrenunattended in the vehicle.Unsupervised use of vehicleequipment can cause seriouspersonal injury.

Note:

If the side windows cannot be fullyopened or closed automatically bypressing the button past the point ofresistance (e.g. after a vehicle batterychange), press side of powerwindow switch until the window iscompletely closed and hold foradditional 2 seconds. Repeat procedurefor each window.

The automatic full opening and closingprocedure of the windows should nowbe restored.

1 Raising2 Lowering

Rear Window Sunshade

The switches are located on the centerconsole and between the single rearseats.

The sunshade should always be eitherfully raised or fully lowered.

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Rear Window Defroster

The switch is located in the centerconsole.

Turn key in steering lock toposition I or 2.

When activating the rear windowdefroster, the indicator lamp in theswitch will come on.

Note:

The rear window defroster uses a largeamount of power. To keep the batterydrain to a minimum, turn off thedefroster as soon as the window isclear.

The defroster is automatically turned offafter a maximum of 20 minutes ofoperation.

Heavy accumulation of snow and iceshould be removed before activatingthe defroster.

If several power consumers are turnedon simultaneously, or the battery isonly partially charged, it is possiblethat the defroster will automaticallyturn itself off. When this happens, theindicator lamp inside the switch startsblinking.

As soon as the battery has sufficientvoltage, the defroster automaticallyturns itself back on.

Shelf below Rear Window

Warning!

The shelf below the rear windowshould not be used to carry objects.This will prevent such objects frombeing thrown about and injuringvehicle occupants during an accidentor sudden maneuver.

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Setting Clock

Adjusting clock one minute ahead orback:

Pull out adjustment knob (1), brieflyturn to the right respectively left andrelease knob.

Adjusting clock more than one minuteahead or back:

Pull out adjustment knob (1), turn tothe right respectively left and hold untilthe desired time is set. Within the first2 seconds, the minute hand advances8 minutes and advances another 8minutes every additional secondthereafter.

Antenna

The antenna extends when switchingon the radio and/or telephone.

Note:

To retract the antenna (e.g. whenentering a car wash) both radio andtelephone must be switched off.

Cellular Telephone

The vehicle is prepared for theinstallation of a cellular telephone. Forfurther information and installationcontact your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Warning!

Some jurisdictions prohibit the driverfrom using a cellular telephone whiledriving a vehicle. Therefore, forsafety reasons, the driver should notuse the cellular telephone while thevehicle is in motion. Stop the vehiclein a safe location before answering orplacing a call.

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71

Driving

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Drinking and Driving

Warning!

Drinking and driving can be a verydangerous combination. Even a smallamount of alcohol or drugs can affectyour reflexes, perceptions andjudgement.

The possibility of a serious or evenfatal accident is sharply increasedwhen you drink and drive.

Please don't drink and drive or allowanyone to drive after drinking. Parking Brake

To engage, depress parking brakepedal. When the key is in steering lockposition 2, the brake warning lamp inthe instrument cluster should come onbrightly.

To release the parking brake, pullhandle on instrument panel. The brakewarning lamp in the instrument clustershould go out.

Also see Brake Warning Lamp Test inIndex.

Driving Off

Test the brakes briefly after driving off.Perform this procedure only when theroad is clear of other traffic.

Warm up the engine smoothly. Do notplace full load on the engine until theoperating temperature has been reached.

When starting off on a slippery surface,do not allow one driving wheel to spinfor an extended period.

Warning!

Keep driver's foot area clear at alltimes. Objects stored in this area mayimpair pedal movement.

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Automatic Transmission

The automatic transmission selectsindividual gears automatically,dependent upon

• Selector lever position• Accelerator position• Vehicle speed

Important!

When parking the car or beforeworking on the vehicle with the enginerunning, firmly depress the parkingbrake pedal and shift the selector leverinto "P".

Driving

The selector lever is automaticallylocked while in positio