Owner's Manual

560 SL
 Drive Sensibly — Save Fuel

Fuel consumption, to a great extent,

a\ depends on driving habits and oper­
ating conditions.
To save fuel you should:
• keep tires at the recommended
inflation pressures
• remove unnecessary loads
• remove ski racks or roof-
mounted luggage racks when
not in use
What You Should Know • allow engine to warm up under
low load use
at the Gas Station
• avoid frequent acceleration and
See last page deceleration
• have all maintenance work per­
formed at regular intervals by an
authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
dealer.
Fuel consumption is also increased
by driving in cold weather, in stop-
and-go traffic, on short trips and in
hilly country.
Owner's Manual

560 SL
Model 107
1989
Kindly observe the following in your own best interests:
We recom m end using MERCEDES-BENZ original parts as
well as conversion parts and accessories explicitly
approved by us for your vehicle model.
We have subjected these parts to a special test in which
their reliability, safety and their special suitability for
MERCEDES-BENZ vehicles have been determined.
We are unable to make an assessment for other p ro ­
ducts and therefore cannot be held responsible for them,
even if in individual cases an official approval or authori­
zation should exist.
MERCEDES-BENZ original parts as well as conversion
parts and accessories approved by us are available at
your MERCEDES-BENZ service station where you will
receive comprehensive information, also on perm issible
technical modifications, and where expert installation will
be performed.

P r in t e d in G e r m a n y
We reserve the right to m odify the technical details of the
vehicle as given in the data and illustrations of this Owner’s
Manual (s.e.e.o.). Reprinting, translation and copying, even of
excerpts, is not permitted without our prior authorization in
writing.
ZKD/7.88.8/Rung
Our com pany and staff congratulate you on the purchase
o f your new MERCEDES-BENZ.
Your selection o f our product is a demonstration o f your
trust in our com pany name. Further, it exemplifies your
desire to own an automobile that w ill be as easy as
possible to operate and provide years o f service.
Your MERCEDES-BENZ represents the efforts o f many
skilled engineers and craftsmen. To ensure your pleasure
o f ownership, we ask you to make a small investment of
your time:
• Please read this manual carefully before putting it
aside.
• Please consider the recommendations contained in this
manual. They are designed to acquaint you with the
operation o f your MERCEDES-BENZ.
We extend our best wishes for many miles o f safe,
pleasurable driving.

Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft

3
Introduction Maintenance

This Owner’s Manual contains a great deal of useful The Maintenance Booklet describes all the necessary
information. We urge you to read it carefully and maintenance work which should be performed at
familiarize yourself with the vehicle before driving. regular intervals.
For your own safety and longer service life of the Always have the Maintenance Booklet with you when
vehicle, we urge you to follow the instructions and you take the vehicle to your authorized MERCEDES-
warnings. Ignoring them could result in damage to BENZ dealer for service. The Service Advisor will
the vehicle or personal injury. record each service.
Your vehicle may have some or all of the equipment Roadside Assistance
described. Therefore, you may find explanations of
equipment not installed in your vehicle. If you have The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program
any questions about the operation of any equipment, provides factory trained technical help in the event of
your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer will be glad a breakdown. Calls to the toll-free Roadside Assist­
to demonstrate the proper procedures. ance number:
1 - 800 - 222-0100
Owner’s Service and Warranty Policy
will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Customer
The Owner’s Service and Warranty Policy Booklet Assistance Representatives 24 hours a day, 365 days
contains detailed information about the warranties a year.
covering your MERCEDES-BENZ, including:
On-site service calls by a local Mercedes-Benz
• New Car Limited Warranty Roadside Assistance technician are available week­
• Emission System Warranty days from 5:00 PM till midnight, weekends and legal
holidays from 8:00 AM till midnight.
• Emission Performance Warranty
For additional information refer to the Mercedes-Benz
• California Emission Control System Roadside Assistance Program brochure in your glove
Warranty (California Only) compartment.

4
Change of Address or Ownership Operating Your Vehicle Outside the U.S.A. or Canada
If you change your address, be sure to send in the If you plan to operate your vehicle in foreign coun­
“Change of Address Notice” found in the Owner’s tries, please be aware that:
Service and Warranty Policy Booklet. It is in your own
• unleaded fuels for vehicles with catalytic conver­
interest that we can contact you should the need
ters may not be available; the use of leaded fuels
arise.
will damage the catalysts,
If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all owner’s • fuel may have a considerably lower octane rating,
literature with the vehicle to make it available to the and improper fuel can cause engine damage,
next owner.
• service facilities or replacement parts may not be
If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in readily available.
the “Notice of Purchase of Used Car” found in the
Owner's Service and Warranty Policy Booklet. Certain Mercedes-Benz models are available for deliv­
ery in Europe under our European Delivery Program.
For details, consult your authorized
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer or write to:
Mercedes-Benz of North America, Inc.
European Delivery Department
One Mercedes Drive
Montvale, NJ 07645
In Canada write to:
Mercedes-Benz Canada, Inc.
European Delivery Department
849 Eglinton Avenue East
Toronto, Ontario M4G 2L5

5
Optional equipm ent is also described in this manual,
including operating instructions wherever necessary.
Since they are special-order items, the descriptions
and illustrations herein m ay vary slightly from the actual
equipm ent o f your vehicle.
If there are any equipm ent details that are not shown or
described in this Owner’s Manual, your authorized
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer will be glad to inform you o f
correct care and operating procedures.
The Owner’s Manual and Maintenance Booklet are im ­
portant documents and should be kept with the vehicle.

6
Instruments and Controls, Starting the Engine
Driving Instructions, Service and Maintenance

Operation

Driving

Practical Hints

Technical Data
Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc.
Consumer Information

Index
Check Regularly and The First 1500 km (1000 Miles)
Before a Long Trip The more cautiously you treat your Avoid accelerating by kickdown. It
See page 112 vehicle during the break-in period, is not recommended to brake the
the more satisfied you will be with vehicle by manually shifting to a
its performance later on. Therefore, lower gear. We recommend to se­
drive your vehicle during the first lect positions “3” or “2” only at
1500 km (1000 miles) at moderate moderate speeds (for hill driving).
vehicle and engine speeds. After 1500 km (1000 miles) speeds
During this period, avoid heavy may gradually be increased to the
loads (full throttle driving) and high permissible maximum.
RPMs (no more than % of maxi­
mum permissible speed in each
gear).

8
Instruments and Controls, Starting the Engine
Driving Instructions, Service and Maintenance

Instruments and Controls 10

Instrument Cluster 12
Indicator Lamp Symbols 13
Catalytic Converter 14
Starting and Turning off the
Engine 15
Driving Instructions 16
MERCEDES-BENZ
Maintenance System 19

9
Instruments and Controls 15 Rear window defroster switch (page 44)
For more detailed descriptions see specified pages.
16 Automatic antenna switch (page 57)
1 Adjustable air outlets (page 22)
17 Front dome lamps switch (page 45)
2 Slide lever for adjustable air outlets (page 22)
18 Radio (page 50)
3 Parking brake release knob (page 60)
19 Air recirculation switch (page 22)
4 Hood release handle (page 72)
20 Automatic climate control (page 22)
5 Parking brake pedal (page 60)
21 Ashtray with lighter (page 43, 91)
6 Combination switch (page 41)
22 Left power window switch (page 45)
7 Exterior lamp switch (page 40)
23 Left seat heater switch (page 32)
8 Instruction tag (except tourist vehicle).
Use only premium unleaded gasoline 24 Hazard warning flasher switch

9 Cruise control (page 62) 25 Right seat heater switch (page 32)

10 Instrument cluster (page 12) 26 Right power window switch (page 45)

11 Horn control, airbag (page 36) 27 Adjusting switch for exterior mirror on front
passenger side (page 42)
12 Steering lock with ignition/starter switch
(page 39) 28 Glove compartment, illuminated (only with key
steering lock positions 1 or 2)
13 Adjustable air outlets (page 22) To open, slide handle sideways

14 Outside temperature indicator (page 67) 29 Loudspeaker cover, right and left
10
11

Instruments and Controls

I
Instrument Cluster 8 Main odometer
1 Turn signal indicator lamp, left (green) 9 Trip odometer
10 Dimmer knob for instrument lamps
2 Economical driving indicator. See page 68
(rotate to vary intensity)
3 Coolant temperature gauge. See page 66 11 Knob for clock adjustment
4 Fuel gauge with reserve warning lamp (yellow). (press in and rotate for adjustments)
See page 66 12 Electric clock
5 Oil pressure gauge (bar). See page 65 13 Tachometer
6 Reset knob for trip odometer 14 Red marking on tachometer:
(depress to reset) Excessive engine speed
7 Speedometer 15 Turn signal indicator lamp, right (green)
 I
Indicator Lamp Symbols Fluid level for windshield
washer system low.
Function Indicator Lamp
See page 66

ID High beam
Exterior light failure.

Instrument Cluster
See page 66

Warning Lamps
(should go out with the engine running unless) ABS malfunction.
See page 64
Battery not being charged.
See page 65
SRS malfunction.
See page 36
Brake fluid low (except Canada).
Parking brake engaged.
See pages 60, 65 CHECK Engine malfunction.
If the lamp comes on when the engine
ENGINE is running, it indicates a malfunction of
Brake fluid low (Canada only).
(®) Parking brake engaged.
See pages 60, 65.
the 0 2-sensor on Federal version ve­
hicles, and injection system or emission
control system on the California version
vehicles. In either case we recommend
that you have the malfunction checked
as soon as possible.
See page 68

Engine oil level low.

□
Seat belt reminder lamp
See page 65
See page 33

Coolant level low.

□ See page 66

13
Catalytic Converter Caution!
Warning!
Your MERCEDES-BENZ is equipped To prevent damage to the catalytic
with monolithic catalytic converters, converters, use only premium As with any vehicle, do not idle,
an important element in conjunction unleaded gasoline in this vehicle. park or operate this vehicle in
with the 0 2-sensor to achieve subs­ Should any noticeable irregularities areas where combustible
tantial control of the pollutants in in the engine operation occur, ex­ materials such as grass, hay or
the exhaust emissions. Keep your cessive unburned fuel may reach leaves can come into contact
the converter causing it to over­ with the hot exhaust system,
vehicle in proper operating condi­
tion by following our recommended heat. as these materials could be
maintenance instructions as out­ ignited.
lined in your maintenance booklet.

14
Starting and Turning off the Engine Hot Engine Important!
Engage parking brake and move Turn key in steering lock clockwise Due to the installed starter non­
the gear selector lever in either “P” to the stop. Do not depress accel­ repeat unit, the key must be
or “N” position before starting the erator. If the engine has not fired returned to steering lock position 0
engine. after approx. 4 seconds, depress before a new starting attempt is
accelerator and continue cranking made.
Turn key to steering lock position 2.
The charge indicator lamp should until the engine is firing regularly. Observe the oil pressure gauge im­
Release key and back off accele­ mediately after starting the engine.
come on.
rator. In a very cold engine the oil pres­
Cold Engine At very high coolant temperatures sure will only rise slowly, some time
Turn key in steering lock clockwise the engine starting time can be after the engine has started. Do not
to the stop. Do not depress accel­ shortened if the accelerator is speed up the engine before pres­
erator. Release key only when the depressed slowly at the beginning sure is registered on the pressure
engine is firing regularly. of the starting process. gauge.

Turning off The charge indicator lamp should

go out as soon as the engine has
Turn the key to steering lock posi­ started.
tion 0. Remove the key only when In areas where temperatures
the vehicle is stopped. frequently drop below —25 °C
If the coolant temperature is very (—13 °F), we recommend that a
high (e.g. after hard driving on block heater be installed. Your
mountain roads), do not shut off the authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
engine immediately, allow it to run dealer will advise you on this
for 1-2 minutes at increased idle subject.
speed.
Driving Instructions The condition of the parking brake All checks and maintenance work
system is checked each time the on the brake system should be
Power assistance car is in the shop for maintenance. carried out by an authorized
When the engine is not running, the MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.
Between maintenance checks it is
brake and steering systems are
a good practice to apply the If the parking brake is released and
without power assistance. Under
parking brake once or twice while the brake warning lamp in the ins­
these circumstances, a much
driving at approximately 50 km/h trument cluster stays on, the brake
greater effort is necessary to stop
(30 mph) on a dry straight road. fluid level in the reservoir is too low.
or steer the vehicle.
Apply brake lightly until a slight Brake pad wear or a leak in the
Brakes drag on the wheels is felt. Keep system may be the reason for low
Caution! applying brake for about 10 sec­ brake fluid in the reservoir.
onds while pulling the release
When driving down long and steep knob out before releasing the Have the brake system inspected
grades, relieve the brakes by shift­ parking brake completely. This at an authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
ing into “3”, “2” or “B”. This helps practice will keep the parking dealer without delay.
prevent overheating of the brakes brake at maximum efficiency.
and reduces brake pad wear. Do Install only brake pads and brake
not exceed engine speed limits fluid recommended by MERCEDES-
(see page 62). BENZ.
Warning!
After hard braking it is advisable to If other than recommended brake
The stop lamps will not come pads are installed, the braking pro­
drive on for some time so the air on when applying the parking
stream will cool down the brakes perties of the vehicle can be affect­
brake only. Perform the proce­ ed to an extent that the safety is
faster. dure in the previous paragraph substantially impaired.
Warning! only when the road is clear of
After driving in heavy rain for other traffic.
some time without applying the
brakes or through water deep Caution!
enough to wet brake components, Resting your foot on the brake pe­
the first braking action may be dal will cause excessive and pre­
somewhat reduced and increased mature wear of the brake pads.
pedal pressure may be neces­
sary. Be sure to maintain a safe
distance from vehicles in front.

16
 Tire traction
Warning!
The safe speed on a wet, snow
Do not allow your tires to wear covered or icy road is always lower
down too far. With less than than on a dry road.
3 mm (1/8 in) of tread, the adhe­
sion properties on a wet road You should pay particular attention
are sharply reduced. to the condition of the road as soon
as the prevailing temperatures fall
Depending upon the weather close to the freezing point.
and/or road surface (condi­
tions), the traction varies
widely. Warning!

Specified tire pressure must be If ice has formed on the road,

1801
maintained. This applies particularly tire traction will be substan­
if the tires are subjected to high tially reduced. Under such
Tires loads (e.g. high speeds, heavy weather conditions, drive, steer
Tread wear indicators (TWI) are loads, high ambient temperatures). and brake with extreme cau­
required by law. These indicators tion.
are located in six places on the Aquaplaning
tread circumference and become We recommend M + S radial-ply
Depending on the depth of the tires for the winter season for all
visible at a depth of approx. 2 mm water layer on the road, aquaplan­
(Vi6 in), at which point the tire is four wheels to insure normal bal­
ing may occur, even at low speeds
considered worn and should be anced handling characteristics. On
and with new tires. Avoid track packed snow, they can reduce
replaced. grooves in the road and apply your stopping distance as com­
The tread wear indicator appears brakes cautiously in the rain. pared with summer tires. Stopping
as a solid band across the tread. distance, however, is still conside­
rably greater than when the road is
wet or dry.
Parking Winter Driving Instructions Increased pedal force may become
necessary to produce the normal
The most important rule for slippery brake effect. We therefore recom­
Warning! or icy roads is to drive sensibly and mend depressing the brake pedal
To reduce the risk of personal to avoid abrupt acceleration, brak­ repeatedly when traveling on salt-
injury as a result of vehicle ing and steering action. Do not use strewn roads at length. This can
movement, before turning off the cruise control system under bring road salt impaired braking
the engine and leaving the such conditions. efficiency back to normal. A prere­
vehicle always: When the vehicle is in danger of quisite is, however, that this is
1. Keep foot on brake pedal. skidding, move selector lever to possible without endangering other
2. Firmly depress parking brake position “N”. Try to keep the drivers on the road.
pedal. vehicle under control by corrective If the vehicle is parked after being
3. Move the selector lever to steering action. driven on salt treated roads, the
position “P”. Road salts and chemicals can braking efficiency should be tested
4. Slowly release brake pedal. adversely affect braking efficiency. as soon as possible after driving is
5. Turn front wheels towards resumed while observing the safety
the road curb. rules in the previous paragraph.
6. Turn the key to steering lock
position 0 and remove.

Note:
It is advisable to set the parking
brake whenever leaving the vehicle.
Also, when parking on hills, always
apply the parking brake. In addition,
move selector lever to position “P”.

18
MERCEDES-BENZ Maintenance Severe Operating Conditions Special Maintenance Measures
System
Under severe operating conditions Brake fluid should be replaced
A maintenance booklet is included or heavy use, it may be necessary annually, preferably in the spring.
with your car, listing all the main­ to carry out prescribed mainte­
tenance jobs that must be carried It is recommended to use only
nance jobs at shorter intervals, for
out after the following mileages: brake fluid approved by
example:
MERCEDES-BENZ. Do not mix
Routine Maintenance Engine: Oil change with filter change different types of brake fluids.
every 6000 km (3750 miles)
Inspection at Have the engine coolant (water/
1300-1600 km (800-1000 miles) Automatic transmission: Fluid anticorrosion/antifreeze mixture)
change without filter change every replaced every three years (see
Lubrication Service every 24000 km (15000 miles) “Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc.").
12000 km (7500 miles)
Tires: Inspect every 12000 km
Maintenance Service every Maintenance Vouchers
(7500 miles)
24000 km (15000 miles)
Air filter: Clean or replace element Your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
Additional Work every dealer will certify in the mainte­
every 24000 km (15000 miles)
48000 km (30000 miles) nance booklet that all lubrication
Note: and maintenance services have
For additional details refer to the
Maintenance Booklet. Severe operating conditions or been carried out at the correct in­
heavy use include: predominant tervals.
In the case of low mileage opera­ city or short distance driving,
tion, the Maintenance Service must frequent mountain driving, poor
be carried out at least once every
roads, dusty or muddy conditions,
2 years. etc..
Engine Oil and Filter Change
Required every 12000 km
(7500 miles), or at least once a
year (fall) when using year-round
multigrade oil; otherwise at least
twice a year (spring and fall).
For engine oil recommendations,
see page 100.
 Operation

Automatic Climate Control 22

Car Keys 27
Opening the Doors
Locking and Unlocking
of Doors
Central Locking System
Anti-Theft Alarm System
Seat Adjustment
Heated Seats 32
Seat Belts and Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) 33
Steering Lock 39
Exterior Lamp Switch 40
Combination Switch 41
Exterior Rear View Mirrors 42
Inside Rear View Mirror 42
Lighter 43
Sun Visors 43
Rear Window Defroster 44
Interior Lamps 45
Power Windows 45
Soft Top 46
Electronic Radio 50

21
 For maximum operating efficiency,
keep windows closed, the soft top
raised or the hard top mounted.
Heating, cooling and air distribution
within the vehicle’s interior will be
automatically controlled. This is
accomplished with the temperature
selector (1), the pushbuttons (2)
and the fan control buttons (3).
The adjustable air outlets (5)
and (7) can be moved to direct the
leaaai §g; flow of air as desired. Outlets (7)
can be opened or closed with slide
levers (6).
Slide lever (6) towards the center of
Automatic Climate Control 3 Fan control buttons the car to open outlet (7).
(only press individually)
The engine must be running for the With the exterior lamps turned on
climate control system to operate. © Maximum fan speed (except standing lamps), the sym­
1 Temperature selector |autom| Automatic fan speed control bols on all buttons light up. Each
Minimum fan speed button shines brighter when
2 Pushbuttons for function selec­ depressed.
tion (only press individually) 4 Air recirculation switch
Defrost 5 Adjustable air outlets Note:

6 Volume control levers for adjust­ The air conditioner removes con­
Bi-Level able air outlets (7), right and left siderable moisture from the air
during operation. It is normal for
Normal setting 7 Adjustable air outlets, right and water to drip on the ground through
left openings in the underbody.
EC (Economy)

<§> Off (air supply off)

22
 Temperature Selection (°C) Air Recirculation
The desired temperature can be adjusted by Pressing the symbol-side of the air recirculation
turning the temperature selector. The selected switch causes air to be recirculated without addi­
temperature is reached as quickly as possible tional fresh air and the red indicator lamp to light
and maintained. A basic setting of 22 °C (72 °F) is re­ up. To turn the air recirculation switch off, press the
commended. To avoid undesirable temperature fluc­ blank side of the switch. The red indicator lamp
tuations, a set temperature should be readjusted in should then go out.
small increments.
The air recirculation mode can be used with high or
To override the automatic climate control turn the low outside temperatures, or to prevent dust or an­
temperature wheel to either extreme end position noying odors from entering the car’s interior. If the
“MIN” or “MAX”. windows should fog up from the inside, the air recir­
“MIN” (detent) = peak cooling performance. culation switch should be turned off. The red indica­
The system operates with recirculated air, without tor lamp should then go out.
additional fresh air.
Function Setting
“MAX" (detent) = maximum heating performance.
If button s is pressed with the temperature selector
in the “MIN” or “MAX” position, the fan will run con­
In this setting, the Automatic Climate Control system
tinuously at a high speed.
is shut off including the fresh air supply to the interior
of the car (to prevent entrance of odors, i.e. while
driving through tunnels, etc. or to prevent the en­
trance of water from automatic car wash). Use this
setting only temporarily while driving.
 kEC (ECONOMY) = Economical setting; the air
'conditioning compressor remains off.
In the remaining three settings, the air conditioning
compressor comes on with ambient temperatures
above +5 °C (41 °F).
As a fuel saving measure, we recommend this setting
be used with cool outside temperatures, so that the
air conditioning compressor remains off.
In the ventilation mode, air is emitted from outlets (5)
and (7).
Economy setting - Ventilation In the heating mode, warm air is primarily supplied to
the foot area. In addition, warm air is also supplied to
Normal setting - Cooling the ducts in the doors. Only enough warm air is sup­
plied to the windshield and air outlets (7), to keep the
glass defogged in normal weather conditions. In the
heating mode, air may be emitted periodically from
outlets (5), depending on the interior temperature.
With low outside temperatures, fan operation is can­
celled until the engine coolant starts to warm up.

Normal Setting
This setting is recommended when you wish to cool
the interior of your car. It is also recommended for
use in humid weather.
The setting ^ corresponds with setting ^ but, in
addition, the air can also be cooled as necessary.
Normal setting - Heating

24
 This setting is used for clearing a fogged windshield.
As soon as the windshield is clear, reset to 0 o r
In the heating mode, warm air is supplied to the wind­
shield, foot area, air outlets (7), and to the ducts in
the doors. Additionally, warm air may be emitted
periodically from outlets (5), depending on the interior
temperature.
In the cooling mode, cool air is supplied to the wind­
shield, foot area, door ducts, and air outlets (5)
and (7).

Note:
In warm, humid climates, prolonged use of this set­
ting may create condensation on the outside of the
windshield, directly above the defroster ducts.

Bi-Level ventilation - Heating

 Defrost
The maximum amount of heated air is directed to the
windshield and side windows (outlets, 7). This setting
overrides temperature and fan speed settings, and
the air recirculation switch.

Defrost

26
 Valet Key - round head with a red Obtaining Replacement Keys
dot - fits only the door locks and
the steering lock. Arms/disarms the Your vehicle is equipped with a
anti-theft alarm system. The valet theft deterrent locking system re­
key will not fit the trunk or glove quiring a special key manufacturing
compartment locks. This key process. For security reasons,
should be used whenever the car is replacement keys can only be
left with an attendant. Be sure to obtained via your authorized
lock glove compartment and trunk MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.
with the master key.
Warning!
Flat Key
When leaving the vehicle
The flat key with a red dot always remove the key from
fits all vehicle locks. the steering lock. Do not leave
Arms/disarms the anti-theft
Car Keys children unattended in the
alarm system. We recom­
vehicle. Unsupervised use of
mend that you carry the
Included with your vehicle are two vehicle equipment may cause
flat key with you and keep
master keys, one valet key and one serious personal injury.
it in a safe place so that it
flat (master) key. is always handy. Never
Master Key - square head with a leave the flat key in the
red dot - fits all locks on the car. vehicle.
Arms/disarms the anti-theft alarm
system.
 The driver’s door can be locked
only if it is closed and the door
latch has properly engaged.

Opening the Doors Locking and Unlocking of Doors

From outside: pull handle (1) From the outside: turn key.
outwards. From the inside: actuate locking
From inside: pull handle (4) in door lever.
panel. 2 Unlocking (rearward position)
3 Locking (forward position)

28
Central Locking System The central locking system can be The trunk can remain locked while
engaged from the driver- and the central locking system is un­
The entire vehicle may be locked or passenger-side door locking lever, locked (e.g. while driving or when
unlocked with the central locking provided the driver’s door is com­ leaving the car in a situation where
system: pletely closed. It can also be en­ it must be driven using the valet
• Using the master or valet key in gaged from the passenger-side if key, but you wish the trunk to re­
either door. the ignition key is removed, or the main locked at parking lots, work­
• Using the master key in the key is inserted in the steering lock shops, etc.). Turn the master key
trunk lock. without being turned (key in posi­ completely to the right and pull it
tion 0). out in the horizontal position. Now
The central locking system locks or the trunk can only be unlocked
If the car has been locked from the
unlocks both doors, trunk lid and with the master key by turning it
fuel filler flap simultaneously. outside, the anti-theft alarm will
come on if a door is opened from back completely to the left.
Doors the inside. Important!
When you lock the car, both door Trunk If the trunk is unlocked with the
locking levers will be in the forward master key, the doors and fuel filler
position. If either one is in the rear­ To unlock the trunk with the central
locking system, turn the master key flap will also be unlocked. After
ward position the respective door is closing the trunk, the central lock­
in the trunk lock completely to the
not properly closed. You should ing system must again be engaged
left and let it return to the vertical
then open and reclose this door using the key to relock the doors
(locking lever in the forward posi­ position. Push in trunk lock button
and open the trunk. To lock the and fuel filler flap.
tion).
trunk, turn the master key com­
pletely to the right and let it return Note:
to the vertical position. If the fuel filler flap cannot be
opened, refer to “Manual Release of
Fuel Filler Flap” (page 83).
Anti-Theft Alarm System The alarm will last approximately Do not give the master key to an
150 seconds in the form of blinking unauthorized person. We recom­
The anti-theft alarm can be armed exterior lamps. At the same time an mend that you carry the flat key
or disarmed with the master key, additional horn will sound intermit­ safely with you so that it is always
valet key or flat key by locking or tently for 60 seconds, pause for handy. This key has the same
unlocking either door or the trunk. 30 seconds, and repeat for another function as the master key.
Operation 60 seconds.
The alarm will stay on even if the
Once the alarm system has been
armed, the exterior vehicle lamps activating element (a door, for
will flash and the horn will sound example) is immediately closed.
intermittently when someone: Note:
• opens a door If the radio is removed from its
• opens the trunk mounting when the anti-theft alarm
• opens the hood is armed the radio will automatically
• removes the radio be rendered inoperative! (This is in­
• switches on or bridges the dicated by a dashed line across
ignition circuit the display.)
• steps on the brake pedal.

30
 Caution!
Warning!
Do not remove head restraints
Do not adjust the driver’s seat except when mounting seat covers.
while driving. Adjusting the For this purpose refer to “Practical
seat while driving could cause Hints”, page 91. Whenever re­
the driver to lose control of the straints have been removed be
vehicle. sure to reinstall them before
Never ride in a moving vehicle driving.
with the seat back reclined. Important!
The seat back and seat belts
provide the best restraint when Prior to operating the vehicle, the
the wearer is in an upright driver should adjust the seat height
position and the belts are for proper vision as well as fore/aft
1707 properly positioned on the placement and seat back angle to
body. insure adequate control, reach,
Seat Adjustment operation, and comfort. The head
Height of Head Restraint: restraint should also be adjusted
Fore/aft adjustment: lift handle (1); for proper height.
slide seat to the desired position Pull head restraint slightly forward
and release handle to re-engage. and slide up or down. Both the inside and outside rear
view mirrors should be adjusted for
Seat elevation (6 positions): Each Inclination of Head Restraint: adequate rearward vision. Fasten
time handle (2) is pulled up, the seat belts. Infants and small chil­
seat is raised by one notch. If the The inclination can be adjusted
manually. dren should be seated in a properly
handle is pushed down completely, secured restraint system that com­
the seat will return to its lowest po­ plies with U.S. Federal Motor
sition. Afterwards, the handle can Note:
Vehicle Safety Standard 213 and
be pulled up to engage the seat in Always adjust head restraint to Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety
its first position to avoid clicking support the back of the head Standard 213.1.
noise. approximately at ear level before
driving. Do not pull up head re­ All seat, head restraint, and rear
Back rest tilt: turn handwheel (3). view mirror adjustments as well as
straint past the stop.
After disengaging the stop by lifting fastening of seat belts should be
lever (4), the back rest can be fold­ done before the vehicle is put into
ed forward. motion.
 Heater operation: Notes:
Push in upper switch portion; When in operation, the seat heater
position 1 = normal heater opera­ consumes a large amount of power.
tion, one indicator lamp lights up. It is advisable not to use the seat
Push in lower switch portion; heater longer than necessary.
position 2 = rapid heating, both The seat heaters may automatically
indicator lamps light up. switch off if too many power con­
After approximately 5 minutes in sumers are switched on at the
same time, or if the battery charge
the rapid heating mode, the heater
is low. When this occurs, the indi­
automatically switches to normal
cator lamp in the switch will blink
operation and only one indicator
(both indicator lamps blink during
lamp will stay on.
rapid seat heating). The seat hea­
Turning off heater: ters will switch on again as soon as
sufficient voltage is available.
Heated Seats If one indicator lamp is on, press in
upper part of switch, position 1. If the blinking of the indicator lamps
The heaters can be switched on is distracting to you, the seat
with the key in steering lock posi­ If both indicator lamps are on, heaters can be switched off.
tion 1 or 2. press in lower part of switch, posi­
tion 2.
The heater automatically turns off
after approximately 30 minutes of
operation.

32
Seat Belts and Supplemental Fastening
Restraint System (SRS) • Pull belt with latch plate (1)
Your vehicle is equipped with seat across shoulder and lap so that
belts, emergency tensioning retrac­ the lap belt is positioned as low
tors for all seats and a driver air­ as possible around your hips.
bag. Do not twist the belt. For safety
reasons, avoid adjusting the
Seat Belts seat into positions which could
affect the correct seat belt posi­
Important! tion.
Laws in most states and provinces • Push latch plate (1) into buckle
(2) until it clicks.

Operation
require seat belt use.
All states and provinces require • The belt must be pulled snug
child restraint use that complies and checked for snugness im­
with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle mediately after engaging it and
Seat Belt Warning System:
Safety Standard 213 and Canadian during driving. If necessary,
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard The indicator is illuminated for tighten the lap portion to a snug
213.1. 4 - 8 seconds after turning the key fit by pulling shoulder portion
to steering lock position 2. If the up.
seat belt of the driver’s seat is not
fastened a warning buzzer sounds
simultaneously.

33
 Operation:
• Infants and small children
The inertia reel stops the belt from must be seated in an Infant
unwinding during sudden vehicle or child restraint system,
stops or when quickly pulling on which is properly secured
the belt. by the lap belt portion of a
The emergency tensioning retractor lap-shoulder belt. Children
tightens the seat belt upon major could be endangered in an
frontal impacts within the shaded accident if their child re­
area shown on page 35. straints are not properly
secured in the vehicle.
The locking function of the reel may
be checked by quickly pulling out • Children too big for child
the belt. restraint systems should use
regular seat belts. Position
shoulder belt across the
Warning! chest and shoulder, not the
Unfastening face or neck. A booster seat
• Each occupant should wear
• Push in the red button (3) in the their seat belt at all times. may be necessary.
belt buckle (2). Together with the “SRS” • Each seat belt should not be
• Allow the retractor to completely (driver airbag, ETR’s and dri­ used for more than one per­
rewind the seat belt by guiding ver-side knee bolster), the son at a time.
the latch plate (1). seat belt offers the best con­
• Belts should not be worn
ditions for protection of the
twisted.
body in case of an accident.
Never wear the shoulder belt • For pregnant women, the lap
under your arm or otherwise belt should be positioned as
out of position. Position the low as possible around the
lap belt as low as possible hips, to avoid any possible
around the hips (not the pressure on the abdomen.
waist).
For cleaning and care of the seat
belts, see page 88.

34
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT The emergency tensioning retrac­ In cases of less severe frontal
SYSTEM (SRS) tors are designed to activate only impacts, roll-overs, certain side im­
when the seat belts are fastened pacts or rear collisions, or other
during major frontal impacts within accidents without major frontal
the shaded area shown. They tight­ forces, the emergency tensioning
en the belts in such a way that they retractors will not be activated. The
fit more snugly against the body driver and passenger will then be
restricting its forward movement as protected by the fastened seat belts
much as possible. and inertia reel in the usual man­
ner.
For seat belt and emergency ten­
sioning retractor safety guidelines,
see page 37.

Emergency tensioning
retractor (ETR)
The seat belts for the seats are
equipped with emergency tension­
ing retractors. These tensioning re­
tractors are located in each belt’s
inertia reel and become operatio­
nally ready with the key in steering
lock position 1 or 2.
 The operational readiness of the
airbag system is verified by the
indicator lamp “SRS” (3) in the
instrument cluster. If no fault is
detected, the lamp will go out after
approximately 4 seconds; after the
lamp goes out, the system conti­
nues to monitor the components
and circuitry of the airbag system
and will indicate a malfunction by
coming on again.
The following system components
are monitored or undergo a self­
check: crash-sensor, airbag ignition
circuit, driver and front passenger
seat belt buckles. Initially, when the
key is turned from steering lock po­
sition 0 to positions 1 or 2, malfunc­
tions in the crash-sensor are de­
tected and indicated (the “SRS”
indicator lamp stays on longer than
4 seconds).
In the operational mode, after the
indicator lamp has gone out after
the initial check, interruptions and
Driver Airbag short circuits in the airbag ignition
circuit and in the driver and front
The most effective occupant res­ The airbag (1) is located in the passenger seat belt buckle har­
traint system yet developed for use steering wheel hub and, in conjunc­ nesses, and low voltage in the en­
in production vehicles is the three- tion with wearing the seat belts with tire system are detected and indi­
point seat belt. In some cases, emergency tensioning retractors cated.
however, the protective effect of (2), provides increased protection
seat belts can be further enhanced for the driver.
by an airbag.
36
In the event a malfunction of the Important note: Safety Guidelines for the Seat
“SRS” is indicated as outlined Belts, Emergency Tensioning
The “SRS” is designed to reduce
above, we strongly recommend that Retractor and Airbag
the potential of injury in major
you visit an authorized MERCEDES-
frontal impacts, however, no
BENZ dealer immediately to have Warning!
system available today can totally
the system checked; otherwise the • Damaged belts or belts that
eliminate injuries and fatalities.
“SRS” may not be activated in a were highly stressed in an
major frontal accident. The activation of the “SRS” tem­ accident must be replaced
porarily releases a small amount and their anchoring points
Important note: must also be checked. Use
of dust from the driver airbag and
The airbag is designed to activate the seat belt emergency tension­ only belts installed or sup­
only in major frontal impacts ing retractors. This dust, however, plied by an authorized
within the shaded area shown in is neither injurious to your health, MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.
the illustration on page 35. Only nor does it indicate a fire in the • Do not pass belts over sharp
during these types of impacts will vehicle. edges.
it provide its supplemental pro­
tection. The driver should always The service life of the airbag ex­ • Do not make any modifica­
wear the seat belt, otherwise it is tends to the date indicated on the tion that could change the
not possible for the airbag to pro­ sticker on the inside of the glove effectiveness of the belts.
vide its intended protection. compartment door. To provide • An airbag or emergency ten­
continued reliability after that sioning retractor (ETR) that
In cases of less severe frontal
date, it should be inspected by an was activated must be re­
impacts, roll-overs, certain side im­
authorized MERCEDES-BENZ placed.
pacts, rear collisions, or other acci­
dealer at that time and replaced
dents without severe frontal forces, • No modifications of any kind
when necessary.
the airbag will not be activated. The may be made to any compo­
driver and other passengers will nents or wiring of the “SRS”.
then be protected by the fastened This includes the installation
seat belts. of additional trim material,
badges, etc. over the steer­
ing wheel hub and installa­
tion of additional electrical/
electronic equipment on or
near “SRS” components and
wiring.
 Infant and Child Restraint Systems
• Improper work on the or secure it with the seat belt
system, including incorrect Mercedes-Benz of North America to prevent the child restraint
installation and removal, can recommends that all infants and from becoming a projectile in
lead to possible injury children be restrained at all times the event of an accident.
through an uncontrolled acti­ while the vehicle is in motion. Infants and small children
vation of the “SRS”. In addi­ should never be held on the
tion, through improper work Important!
lap, nor should they share a
there is the risk of rendering The use of infant or child restraints seat belt with another occupant
the “SRS” inoperative. Work is required by law in all 50 states while the vehicle is in motion.
on the “SRS” must therefore and all Canadian provinces.
only be performed by an Children too big for child re­
authorized MERCEDES-BENZ Infants and small children should straint systems should use re­
dealer. be seated in an infant or child re­ gular seat belts. Position shoul­
straint system which is properly se­ der belt across the chest and
• When scrapping the airbag cured by the lap belt portion of a shoulder, not the face or neck.
unit or emergency tensioning lap/shoulder belt, and that complies A booster seat may be neces­
retractor, it is mandatory to with U. S. Federal Motor Vehicle sary.
follow our safety instructions. Safety Standard 213 and Canadian
These instructions are avail­ Motor Vehicle Safety Standard This vehicle is equipped with tether
able at your authorized 213.1. A statement by the child re­ anchorages for use with child re­
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer. straint manufacturer of compliance straints that have a top tether strap.
with this standard can be found on Consult your authorized
When you sell the vehicle we the instruction label on the restraint MERCEDES-BENZ dealer for the
strongly urge you to give notice to and in the instruction manual pro­ exact location of these anchorages.
the subsequent owner that it is vided with the restraint.
equipped with an “SRS” by alerting Note:
him to the applicable section in the When using any infant or child re­
straint system, be sure to carefully Canada Models only
Owner’s Manual.
read and follow all manufacturer’s In compliance with Canadian Motor
instructions for installation and use. Vehicle Safety Standard 210.1, child
restraint tether anchorage hardware
is attached to the tool kit located in
Warning! the trunk.
When the child restraint is not
in use, remove it from the car
38
 1 Steering is unlocked. A warning buzzer sounds when the
(If necessary, move steering driver’s door is opened with the key
wheel slightly and turn the key in steering lock position 1 or 0.
clockwise to position 1.)
With the engine at idle speed, the
2 Driving position. charging rate of the alternator
3 Starting position. (output) is limited.

For starting and turning off the en­ It is therefore recommended to turn
gine, refer to page 15. off unnecessary electrical consum­
ers while driving in stop and go
traffic. This precaution helps to
Warning! avoid draining of the battery.
When leaving the vehicle al­ Unnecessary strain on the battery
ways remove the key from the and charging system may be mini­
steering lock. Do not leave mized by turning off the following
children unattended in the power consumers, for example:
Steering Lock
vehicle. Unsupervised use of Heated seats, rear window de­
0 Steering is locked when the key vehicle equipment may cause froster.
is withdrawn and the steering serious personal injury.
lock is engaged. The key can
be withdrawn only in position 0. Notes:
The following items can be operat­
Warning! ed with the key in steering lock
Do not remove key from the position 1:
steering lock while the Wiper,
vehicle is in motion as this windshield washer,
will cause the engagement headlamp flasher,
of the steering lock thus lighter,
rendering the vehicle im­ glove compartment lamp,
possible to steer. heated seats.
Exterior Lamp Switch Notes:
0 Off-position With the key removed and a front
door open, a warning buzzer
1 Parking lamps (includes side sounds if the vehicle’s exterior
marker lamps, taillamps, license lamps (except standing lamps) are
plate lamps, instrument panel not switched off.
lamps)
Fog lamps will only operate
2 Same as pos. 1 plus headlamps together with low beam headlamps.
3 Standing lamps, right Fog lamps are turned off automatic­
ally when the exterior lamp switch
4 Standing lamps, left
is returned to the off-position.
A Fog lamps (turn to position 2
Consult your state Motor Vehicle
and pull out to first stop = same
Regulations regarding fog lamp
as position 2 plus fog lamps).
operation.
Standing lamps
When the vehicle is parked on the
street the standing lamps (right or
left side parking lamps) can be
turned on, making the vehicle more
visible to passing vehicles.
The standing lamps can only be
operated with steering lock in posi­
tion 0 or 1.
 If one of the turn signals fails, the
turn signal indicator system flashes
and sounds at a faster rate than
normal. In addition, the lamp failure
indicator will come on.
If the windshield wipers smear the
windshield, even during rain, acti­
vate the washer system as often as
necessary. The fluid in the washer
reservoir should be mixed in the
correct ratio.

Mixing ratio

Combination Switch To signal minor directional changes For temperatures above freezing:
of the vehicle, such as changing MB Windshield Washer Concen­
1 Low beam (with exterior lamp lanes on a highway, move combina­ trate “S” and water
switch turned to position 2) tion switch to the point of resis­ 1 part “S” to 100 parts water
2 High beam (with exterior lamp tance only and hold it there. (40 ml “S” to 1 gallon water).
switch turned to position 2) For temperatures below freezing:
6 Control for windshield washer
3 High beam flasher (high beam system MB Windshield Washer Concen­
available independent of exterior When the washer system is trate “S” and commercially avail­
lamp switch position) switched on, the wipers also able premixed windshield washer
4 Turn signals, right operate. solvent/anti-freeze
5 Turn signals, left The windshield washer nozzles 1 part “S” to 100 parts solvent
are automatically heated. (40 ml “S” to 1 gallon solvent).
To operate the turn signals, move 7 Windshield wiper control
the combination switch past the 0 Wiper off
point of resistance (up or down). 1 Intermittent wiping
The switch is automatically can­ II Normal wiper speed
celled when the steering wheel is III Fast wiper speed
turned to a large enough degree.
41
Exterior Rear View Mirrors Caution! Inside Rear View Mirror
The exterior mirrors have electri­ Exercise care when using the pas­ The mirror can be tilted to the anti­
cally heated glass. The heater senger-side mirror. glare night position by means of the
switches on and off automatically, Objects in mirror are closer than lever at its lower edge.
depending on outside temperature. they appear. Use your inside mirror to determine
Driver’s side: To adjust the mirror: the size and distance of objects
Turn key in steering lock to position seen in the passenger-side convex
The exterior mirror (2) can be mirror.
2. The exterior mirror can be ad­
adjusted from inside the vehicle by
justed using the switch. Adjust the
moving adjusting lever (1) in the
mirror so you can just see the side
desired direction.
of your vehicle in the portion of the
Passenger-side: mirror closest to the car.
The passenger-side exterior mirror Note: If the mirror housing is forcib­
is convex (outwardly curved sur­ ly pivoted from its normal position,
face for a wider field of view). it must be repositioned by applying
firm pressure until it snaps into
place.
42
 Operation
Lighter Sun Visors Vanity mirror:
Turn key in steering lock to position Swing sun visors down to protect With the visor engaged in its inner
1 or 2. against sun glare. mounting, the lamp can be
switched on by opening the cover.
Push in lighter; it will pop out auto­ If sunlight enters through a side
matically when hot. window, disengage visor from inner
mounting and swing to the side.
Warning!
Do not touch heating element
or sides of lighter, hold at knob
only.

43
 Note: If several power consumers are
turned on simultaneously, or the
The rear window defroster uses a
battery is only partially charged, it
large amount of power. To keep the
is possible that the defroster will
battery drain to a minimum, turn off
automatically turn itself off. When
the defroster as soon as the win­
this happens, the indicator lamp in­
dow is clear. The defroster is auto­
side the switch starts blinking. As
matically turned off after a maxi­
soon as the battery has sufficient
mum of 20 minutes of operation.
voltage, the defroster automatically
Heavy accumulation of snow and
turns itself back on.
ice should be removed before acti­
vating the defroster.

Rear Window Defroster

(Hardtop only)

With engine running, press symbol

side of rocker switch to turn on,
press left side to turn off.
When activating the rear window
defroster, the indicator lamp in the
switch will come on.

44
Interior Lamps Power Windows
The switch for the front dome The power windows can only be
lamps has 3 positions. operated with the key in steering
Position 1: the lamps are switched lock position 2.
on and off (delayed, however, there

I
will be no delay when the key is in
steering lock position 2) by the
door contact switches.
Position 2: lamps are switched off
continuously.
Position 3: lamps are switched on

Operation
continuously.

45
 1. Unlock rear bow (2) and com­
partment cover (3) by rotating
lever (1) to position C. Lever will
automatically return to position
B. If the rear bow cannot be
raised with lever in this position,
move lever (10) to position E.
2. Lift rear bow to an upright posi­
tion. In doing this, be sure the
rear window is folded inward
free of kinks.
3. Open top storage compartment
cover (3).
4. Disengage top framework at
Lowering the soft top: front by turning locks (4)
Soft Top
inwards. Remove handle after
If possible, park vehicle in the A wet or frozen top must not be turning lock.
shade as continuous exposure to folded until thawed and dry.
5. Bring the front bow back. Make
sun rays can prematurely deterior­ Open side windows or doors before sure that the frame bow (arrow)
ate the soft top material. raising or lowering the soft top. pivots to its rearmost position,
To lower or raise the soft top or to to prevent damage to the top.
remove or attach the hardtop, there
are two locking handles in a bag
stowed in the glove compartment
They are used to engage or disen­
gage locks (4). Put locking handles
back into the glove compartment
after use.

46
 Operation
9904

6. Guide the top into its storage 8. Close top storage compartment 3. While pulling top down tighten
compartment (5). cover, making sure that both framework by turning locks (4)
To avoid curling the edges of sides (9) are locked. outwards. Remove locking
the soft top, tuck in the edges handles.
Raising the soft top:
so that the material is not stored 4. Close top storage compartment
with lifted edges in the following 1. Rotate lever (1) to position C cover, making sure that both
areas: and open storage compartment sides (9) are locked.
cover (3).
(6) under lock, 5. Fold down top until rear bow
(7) under the left and right 2. Pull the top out of the storage locks in place in the center,
hinge area, compartment, unfolding it for­ then tighten rear bow with crank
(8) at the left and right side ward to insert the locks (4) in (1) (position A). Lever (10) must
area. their corresponding latching be in position D.
holes in the windshield header
7. Return safety lever to position D. bar.

47
 Removal of hardtop:
1. Disconnect plug and socket of
the heated rear window in the
passenger-side rear compart­
ment.
2. Place lever (1) in position B,
lever (10) in position E.
3. Turn side locks (11) rearwards to
the stop with locking handles.
4. Insert locking handles into wind­
shield header bar locks and turn
inwards. Remove locking
handles.
5. Lift the top carefully from its five
Removal or attachment of the hard­ They are used to engage or disen­ latching holes and remove to
top is best done at an authorized gage the locks in the windshield the rear.
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer, although header bar and behind the doors
this can be carried out by 2 per­ (11). Put locking handles back into
sons. the glove compartment after use.
The soft top must be completely The hardtop has five latching
dry before it is placed in the stor­ points:
age compartment.
Front = two locks in windshield
To remove or attach the hardtop, header bar
there are two locking handles in a
bag stowed in the glove compart­ Side = one lock behind each door
ment. (11)
Rear = center locking pin on hard­
top.

48
 The soft top may become moldy if it
is kept enclosed in the storage
compartment for an extended
period. Unfold and air it thoroughly
(do not expose to the sun) at
regular intervals during the wet and

Operation
Attaching hardtop: 3. Insert both locking handles into
1. Move lever (1) to position B and the forward locks and swing
lever (10) to position D. outwards.

2. Install hardtop with caution to 4. Insert locking handles into side

avoid paint damage. Lower hard locks (11) and turn completely
top slowly. All locking pins forward to the stop.
should be engaged into their re­ 5. Move lever (1) to position A.
spective locks at the same time.
6. Connect plug and socket of the
heated rear window in the pas­
senger-side rear compartment.

49
 16 Dolby B and C noise reduction
with indicators* E f f l
17 Tape equalization with indica­
tor B iiB
18 Cassette eject E 3
19 Cassette door

To turn the radio ON

Press “ON” side of but­
Electronic Radio only when balance function is ton. The radio will begin operating
activated) on the last station, volume and tone
Pushbutton Functions
P = ste re o I U J l n kH* O AM ( setting stored before last switching
1 On/Off button EJ OFF it off.
2 Volume control | The system can also be turned on
7 Function control by inserting a cassette through the
3 Bass control/left stereo
balance 8 Tuning sensitivity I I cassette door into the unit.

4 Treble control/right stereo 9 Seek tuning bar To turn the radio OFF
balance
10 Scan tuning bar E f f l Press the “OFF” side of the| ON OFF
5 Pushbuttons for AM/FM band 11 Manual tuning button. The radio turns off automati­
selection, station frequency (decreasing station frequency) cally when the key is turned back
selection, station storage to position 0.
through [^J] 12 Manual tuning □
(increasing station frequency)
6 Digital display for station fre­
quency (a), station pushbutton 13 Cassette track selector with
number (b), AM/FM band indi­ track indicator Q Q
cator (c), stereo indicator (d), 14 Reverse music search/rewind D o lby and th e d o u b le -D sym bol are trad em a rks
tone setting indicator (e), tuning with indicator of D olby La b o ra to rie s L icensin g C o rpo ratio n.
sensitivity indicator (f), stereo N oise re d u c tio n system m anufactured un d e r
balance indicator (displayed 15 Forward music search/fast for­ license from D o lby Lab ora tories L icensin g
ward with indicator E D I C o rpo ratio n.

50
Volume adjustment To adjust the tone characteristic
To reduce volume, press the volume Bass |Q and treble ^3 can be adjusted independently.
control button downward;
To set the radio to a “flat” tone setting (bass and treble atmid-range
to increase volume, press the but­
setting), briefly press both tone control buttons and simulta­
ton upward. neously. The tone setting indicators display the selected mid-range setting:
The left to right stereo balance may p _
—= = Mid-range Setting
be adjusted by first pressing the
function control button and Upon pressing either tone control button (either or )■ the bass or
thenpressing the bass control but­ treble will increase until the respective tone control button is released or
ton k S or the treble control but­ when the maximum tone level is reached.
ton . This will cause the stereo P=
balance to shift either left or right —= = Maximum Treble
o
respectively. p _
- j- = = Maximum Bass
To center the left to right stereo o —
balance, briefly press both but­ After reaching the maximum tone level, the tone setting will stay at that
tons | Q and simultaneously. level unless the tone control button is released and pressed again, at
The stereo balance setting will be which point the tone level will begin decreasing. It will stop decreasing
displayed (as shown below) when when the tone control button is released or when the minimum tone level
the balance feature is activated. is reached.
The magnitude of the setting is p
— = = Minimum Treble
shown by a number from 0 to 8. o
Bracketing this number are two ar­ P __
rows indicating the direction of the —-= = Minimum Bass
O'
setting. For example: After reaching the minimum tone level, the tone setting will stay at that
< 0 > = null or centered balance level unless the tone control button is released and pressed again. After
<5 = balance shifted 5 units left pressing the tone control button again the tone level will begin to increase
7> = balance shifted 7 units right. and the cycle is repeated.
Note: It takes approx. 5 seconds to go from minimum tone level to maxi­
mum tone level.
This radio has 3 tone setting memories, one each for AM, FM and cassette.
The individual tone setting for each mode will be automatically stored.
To select AM or FM Scan tuning Tuning sensitivity button
Press any of the buttons Switch to AM or FM, then press the By pressing the tuning sensitivity
marked QJJJ through QJJ1 to tune scan tuning b a r g ^ to automati­ button i i once or twice, you can
the radio to the FM band. cally tune to the first station broad­ select the desired sensitivity level
casting within the selected recep­ for seek/scan tuning. The sensitivity
Press any of the buttons
tion sensitivity level. This station is indicator displays the selected sen­
marked through [^J] to tune
held for “auditioning” for approx. sitivity level:
the radio to the AM band.
5 seconds. If desired, this station = least sensitive (the automatic
The selected wave band is in­ may be locked in by pressing station seeker/scanner stops
dicated in the digital display. the j ^ 3 o r | 2 3 bar. if neither of
only at strong stations)
the bars is pressed, the radio will
To tune-in a station continue to scan to each station t = average (the automatic station
within the selected sensitivity level seeker/scanner stops at
Stations can be tuned-in by using
and “audition” each station for strong and moderate strength
seek/scan tuning, direct frequency
approx. 5 seconds. stations)
tuning, manual tuning, or by preset
pushbuttons. The frequency of the By pressing the scan tuning bar = most sensitive (the automatic
station selected is indicated in the upward the radio will scan station seeker/scanner also
digital display. stations in ascending frequencies, stops at weak stations)
by pressing downward it will do so
in descending frequencies. If no stations are located by the
Seek tuning seek or scan functions during one
Switch to the desired waveband, complete pass through the selected
press the seek tuning bar up­ wave band, the tuning sensitivity
ward to automatically seek stations will automatically switch to the next
in ascending frequencies, press higher sensitivity level and be indi­
downward to do so in descending cated as shown above.
frequencies. In order to arrive at a When switched off, the radio re­
desired station without stopping, turns to the “least sensitive” level.
the bar must be held in the desired
direction. Note: The tuning sensitivity button
The direction of seek tuning canbe has no influence on reception qual­
reversed by pressing the bar ity, only on the sensitivity of station
in the respective direction. selection during the automatic sta­
tion seeker/scanner modes.

52
Direct frequency tuning Manual tuning
In order to select a station with a known frequency, select the wave band (For fine tuning a station or for
(AM or FM), press the function control button and then enter the fre­ manual tuning)
quency by pressing the corresponding pushbuttons.
After selecting the desired AM or
FM wave band, press the manual
Example: FM 98.5 MHz AM 1050 kHz tuning button a (decreasing sta­
tion frequency) or □ (increasing
Press any button marked QZI through Q23 0 U through | Q
station frequency).
Press the function control button D D The frequency will increase or de­
Enter frequency by pressing jj^^j crease respectively in increments
of 0.1 MHz for FM or 1.0 kHz for AM.
When tuning a frequency directly, the pushbutton number is not displayed Release the button when the
on the panel. The wave band is indicated by showing “MHz” for FM or desired station is tuned in.
“kHz” for AM.
Pushbutton tuning
Note:
All AM stations have allocated frequencies ending with a “0”. Six FM stations and four AM sta­
All FM stations have allocated frequencies ending with an odd-numbered tions can be stored in memory and
digit following the decimal point. recalled by pressing the appropri­
Broadcasters sometimes may not give their exact frequency but the next ate buttons marked HJ3 through
closest whole number. U U for FM or E E ] through QJJ
for AM stations.
US radio frequency ranges:
AM 540-1600 kHz
FM 88.1-107.9 MHz
Please note: It is recommended that direct frequency tuning operations be
performed by the driver only while the vehicle is not moving. The driver
should use the automatic station seeker/scanner or pushbutton tuning
when the vehicle is in motion.
To store stations in memory Stereo reception In the event that it is important to
listen to a weak station or to a
Any FM station can be stored on The stereo indicator BBHB lights strong station that is masked by
any button marked Bull through up if a stereo program in the AM or terrain-induced noise or interfer­
by first tuning in the desired FM band is received. ence problems, the following steps
station, depressing the button de­ Note: The radio receives AM stereo can be taken to increase the listen-
sired and holding it until the display programs which are broadcast via ability of the station.
has changed from the “old” setting the C-Quam®* AM stereo system.
to a “blank” and then to the new Fringe area AM and FM reception
station to be stored. The radio is equipped with an auto­ of weak stations can be improved
matic stereo/mono blend switch by first insuring that the antenna is
Showing the “old” setting first al­ that electronically switches to at its maximum height and then re­
lows for reconsideration of the de­ mono for clear reception if a weak ducing the treble and bass settings
cision to store. If it is desirable to signal is received. as required to filter out as much
leave the “old” station in memory background noise as is needed.
rather than exchanging it with the The stereo indicator will remain lit
“new” one, quickly release the but­ even if the receiver has changed to FM noise problems that are caused
ton. The “old” station will remain in the mono mode and will turn off at by urban and hilly conditions may
memory. an antenna signal considered insuf­ be reduced by lowering the treble
ficient to provide acceptable recep­ setting until the pops and hisses
Any AM station can be storedsim i- tion quality. associated with this type of terrain
larly on any button marked Mi l are reduced to acceptable levels.
through . Although FM is normally static free,
reception quality can be limited by AM reception difficulties caused by
geographic and atmospheric condi­ strong adjacent stations or night­
tions, station strength and distance time atmospheric conditions may
from the transmitter. Buildings or be reduced by fine tuning the se­
other obstructions can cause mo­ lected station with the two fine tun­
mentary static, flutter or station ing buttons.
swapping. If good reception cannot
be obtained, tune to a stronger sta­
The tuning sensitivity button a
has no influence on reception
tion.
quality.

* C-Quam® is a registered trademark of Motorola, Inc.

54
TAPE CASSETTE PLAYBACK Forward music search/fast forward Reverse music search/rewind
Cassette player operation To engage the forward music To engage the reverse music
search feature, press the fo rw a rd _ _ search feature, press the reverse
It is recommended to use only high
music search/fast forward button BZO music search/rewind button EB2D
quality cassettes with a playback
once. The forward music search once. The reverse music search
time of not more than 90 minutes begins to advance the tape to the begins to rewind the tape to the
(C 90). next music selection. The indicator previous music selectiomThe indi­
To play a cassette, insert the cas­ lamp in the button QQ^Ilights up. cator lamp in the button I B f l lights
sette (tape side first, side “1” or “A" There must be a minimum pause of up. There must be a minimum
facing up) through the cassette 4 seconds between selections for pause of 4 seconds between selec­
door. Gently push the cassette into the music search feature to deter­ tions for the music search feature
the slot until the motorized-loading mine the beginning of the next to determine the beginning of the
system engages the cassette. The music selection. previous music selection.
unit will then switch from radio to
Music search can be interrupted by Music search can be interrupted by
cassette playback. pressinc^he reverse music search/ pressing the forward music search/
Automatic tape tensioning will take re w in d jfflQ ’ track s e le c to rQ Q fastforward QESor track selector
up any possible tape slack before buttons or by pressing the forward B D buttons and by pressing the
the beginning of playback. music search/fast forward button reverse music search/rewind button
A switched-off unit can be automa­ again after approx. 3 seconds. liBiflagain after approx. 3 seconds.
tically turned-on by loading a cas­ To fast forward the tape, press the To rewind the tape, press the re-
sette. forwardm usic search/fast forward verse music search/rewind but­
button B O twice. The indicator ton E n tw i£ e _ T fie indicator lamp in
Track selection lamp in the button BSSlblinks. the button i n n blinks. Upon reach­
When the end of the first track is Upon reaching the end of the tape, ing the beginning of the tape, the
reached, the unit automatically re­ the unit will automatically reverse to unit will automatically replay the
verses to play the second track. play the other track. same track. The unit will not re­
The tape track can also be select­ Fast forward can be interrupted by verse to the other track.
ed by briefly pressing the cassette pressing the reverse music search/ Rewind can be interrupted by press­
track selector button The rewind track selector B D ing the fonward music search/fast
track selected is indicated by the buttons or by pressing the forward forward or track selector Q Q
respective indicator lamp in the music search/fast forward button buttons and by pressing the re­
button. Q O again after approx. 3 seconds. verse music search/rewind button
HSflagain after approx. 3 seconds.
55
Dolby B and C noise reduction Cassette eject If the cassette ejects during play­
back, this may be caused by bind­
To replay cassettes recorded using To remove a cassette, press the ing of the tape in the cassette. To
the Dolby B or C noise reduction eject button n g . Remove the tape eliminate this condition, fast forward
systems, press the Dolby NR but­ after the motorized-loading system the cassette to the end of the track
ton BBS repeatedly until the desired has disengaged the cassette. The and then rewind to the beginning of
type of Dolby noise reduction (Dol­ unit will automatically switch from the track.
by B or Dolby C) is attained. This cassette playback to radio opera­
reduces tape hiss. The indicator tion. Protect cassette tapes from direct
lamps in the button indicate the sunlight or other temperature ex­
When the unit is turned off by press­ tremes.
type of Dolby noise reduction ing the “OFF” side of the On/Off
selected. To replay cassettes not
recorded in Dolby, press the but­ button H 2 H H I3 or by turning the Radio anti-theft protection
key to steering lock position 0, the
ton E H repeatedly until the indica­ cassette will automatically eject. Removal of the radio with the
tor lamps in the b u tto n ^ H go out. vehicle anti-theft alarm armed will
Care and maintenance render the radio inoperative indi­
Tape equalization cated by a dashed line across the
To avoid deterioration of the tone display.
For optimum reproduction quality it
quality, periodically clean the tape
is necessary to select the correct head with the special cleaning tape
tape equalization for the particular kit available at your authorized
type of tape being used. Press the
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.
tape equalization b u tto n B E only
when playing Chromium dioxide Cassette tapes should be properly
(CR02) or “metal” cassette tapes. stored when not in use. It is recom­
The indicator lamp in the button will mended that cassettes be stored in
illuminate when CRO^ or metal a cassette box designed to prevent
equalization has been selected. For unwinding and the accumulation of
all other types of tape, do not press dust.
the tape equalization b u tto n B E ■
The indicator lamp in the button
E E remains off.

56
Automatic Antenna The height of the antenna can be
adjusted to any intermediate posi­
The antenna switch can be actuated
tion by actuating the antenna
with the radio switched on. switch:
• If the antenna switch is engaged
• If the antenna switch is in the
in the “max” position, the an­
center position, the antenna will
tenna extends fully.
extend to medium height. The
Note: antenna can be further extend­
ed or retracted to any height by
For most conditions the antenna rocking the switch (not engaging
should normally be in this posi­ it).
tion.
• If the antenna is to be retracted,
• If the antenna switch is in the e.g. going through car wash,
center position, the antenna ex­ etc., engage switch in “off”
tends automatically to medium position.
height,
When the key is turned to steering
• if the antenna switch is engaged lock position 0 or the radio is
in the “off” position, the antenna turned off, the antenna will retract
will not extend or will retract completely.
completely.
 Driving

Parking Brake 60
Automatic Transmission 60
Cruise Control 62
ABS (Antilock Brake System) 64
Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp 65
Brake Warning Lamp 65
Charge Indicator Lamp 65
Oil Pressure Gauge 65
Low Engine Oil Level Indicator
Lamp 65
Exterior Light Failure Indicator
Lamp 66
Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp 66
Coolant Temperature Gauge 66
Low Engine Coolant Level
Indicator Lamp 66
Low Windshield Washer Fluid
Level Indicator Lamp 66
Outside Temperature Indicator 67
Emission Control 67
On-Board Diagnostic System
(California models only) 68
Economical Driving Indicator
(ECONOMY) 68
Engine Oil Consumption 68
Traveling Abroad 68
Winter Driving 69
Tire Chains 69
 Automatic Transmission Test the brakes briefly after driving
off. Perform this procedure only
The automatic transmission selects when the road is clear of other
individual gears automatically, traffic.
depending upon selector lever
Warm up the engine smoothly. Do
position, vehicle speed and accele­
not place full load on the engine
rator position.
until the operating temperature has
been reached.
Warning! When starting off on a slippery sur­
Keep driver’s foot area clear at face, do not allow one driving wheel
all times. Objects stored in this to spin for an extended period.
area may impair pedal move­
ment. Accelerator position
Partial throttle = early upshifting =
Driving: normal acceleration.
Parking Brake
Shift selector lever to the desired Full throttle = later upshifting =
To engage, depress parking brake driving position only when the maximum acceleration.
pedal (1). When the key is in steer­ engine is idling and the service Depressing the accelerator beyond
ing lock position 2, the brake brake is applied. Do not release the full throttle to kickdown position
warning lamp in the instrument brake until ready to drive. The ve­ means downshifting to the next
cluster should come on brightly hicle may otherwise start creeping lower gear and thereby increasing
(function check for brake warning when the selector lever is in a drive acceleration. If you ease up on the
lamp). position. accelerator after having attained
To release the parking brake, pull the desired speed, the transmission
the release knob (2) on the will shift up again.
instrument panel. This releases the
parking brake pedal under spring
pressure and the indicator lamp on
the instrument cluster should dim.

60
 “P” Parking lock. “D” Drive.
The parking lock is an addi­ Automatic upshifting to top
tional safeguard to the parking gear. Position “D” affords opti­
brake when parking the vehicle. mum driving characteristics
Engage only with the car under all normal operating
stopped. conditions.
“R” Reverse gear. “3” Upshift to 3rd gear only. Suit­
Shift to reverse gear only with able for medium range up or
the car stopped. downgrades.
“N” Neutral. “2” Upshift to 2nd gear only. For
No power is transmitted from driving in mountainous regions.
the engine to the rear axle. Since transmission will not
When the brakes are released, shift up further, this gear se­
the vehicle can be moved free­ lection will make use of the
ly (pushed, towed or tow-start­ engine’s braking power.
Selector lever positions ed). Do not engage “N” while
“B” In this position, the engine’s
The automatic gear shifting process driving except when the veh­
braking effect is utilized while
can be adapted to specific operat­ icle is in danger of skidding
descending steep or lengthy
ing conditions using the selector (e.g. on icy roads, see page 18). downgrades. Use this position
lever. only below 60 km/h (40 mph).
Important! Stopping
Do not exceed the engine speed For brief stops, e.g. at traffic lights,
limits for individual gear selections, leave the transmission engaged
which are indicated by marks on and control vehicle with the service
the speedometer. brake.
Do not attempt downshifting to a For longer stops with the engine
lower gear (braking effect) unless idling, shift into “N” or “P”.
the speedometer needle is below When stopping the car on an in­
the speed limit mark of that particu­ cline do not hold it with the accele­
lar gear range. Over-revving could rator, use the brake. This avoids
result in damage to the engine. unnecessary transmission heat 2
On slippery road surfaces, it is not build up.
recommended to downshift in order
to obtain braking action. This could Maneuvering
result in rear wheel slip and To maneuver in tight areas, e.g. Cruise Control
reduced vehicle control. when pulling into a parking space,
control the car speed by gradually Any given speed above approxi­
To prevent the engine from laboring mately 40 km/h (25 mph) can be
at low RPMs, do not allow the en­ releasing the brakes. Accelerate
gently and do not pump the accel­ maintained with the cruise control
gine speed to drop too low on by operating the lever.
uphill gradients. Depending on the erator.
degree of the incline, shift selector To rock a car out of soft ground 1 Accelerate and set:
lever to positions “3” or “2” early (mud or snow), alternately shift from Lift lever briefly to set speed.
enough to maintain engine RPM forward to reverse, while applying Hold lever up to accelerate.
within the best torque range. partial throttle. 2 Decelerate and set:
Depress lever briefly to set
speed.
Hold lever down to decelerate.

62
Normally the vehicle is accelerated 4 Resume
to the desired speed with the If the lever is briefly pulled to Warning!
accelerator. Speed is set by briefly position 4 when driving at a Only use the cruise control if
pushing the lever to position 1 or 2. speed exceeding approximately the traffic and weather condi­
The accelerator can be released. 40 km/h (25 mph), the vehicle tions make it advisable to
The speed can be increased (e.g. resumes the speed which was travel at a steady speed.
for passing) by using the accelera­ set prior to the cancellation of
the cruise control. The last The “Resume” function should
tor. As soon as the accelerator is only be operated if the driver is
released, the previously set speed memorized speed is cancelled
when the key is turned to steer­ fully aware of the previously
will be resumed automatically. set speed and wishes to re­
ing lock position 1 or 0.
If a set speed is to be increased or sume this particular preset
decreased slightly, e.g. to adapt to Note: speed.
the traffic flow, hold lever in position If the engine does not brake the When driving with the cruise
1 or 2 until the desired speed is vehicle sufficiently while driving on control, the transmission selec­
reached, or briefly tip the control a downgrade, the speed you set on tor lever must not be shifted to
lever in the appropriate direction for position “N” as otherwise the
the cruise control may be exceed­
increases or decreases in 1 km/h ed. As soon as the grade eases, engine will overrev.
(0.6 mph) increments. When the

Driving
the cruise controlled speed will
lever is released, the newly set again be maintained as long as the
speed remains. brakes were not applied.
3 Cancelling If the set speed was sufficiently
To cancel the cruise control, exceeded such that the brakes had
briefly push lever to position 3. to be applied, the cruise control
When you step on the brake can be resumed by pulling the
pedal or the vehicle speed falls lever to position 4.
below approx. 40 km/h (25 mph),
for example when driving
upgrade, the cruise control will
be cancelled.

63
ABS (Antilock Brake System) The ABS indicator lamp in the in­
strument cluster comes on with the Warning!
The ABS prevents the wheels from key in steering lock position 2 and Even the ABS cannot prevent
locking up above a vehicle speed should go out with the engine the natural laws of physics
of approximately 3 km/h (2 mph) running. from acting on the vehicle. The
independent of road surface condi­
If the charging voltage falls below ABS cannot prevent accidents,
tions. It is necessary, however, that
the vehicle speed reaches at least 10 volts, the indicator lamp comes including those resulting from
8 km/h (5 mph) before com­ on and the ABS is switched off. excessive speed in turns,
When the voltage is above this following another vehicle too
mencing to brake.
value again, the indicator lamp closely, or aquaplaning. Only a
At the instant one of the wheels is should go out and the ABS will be safe, attentive, and skillful
about to lock up, you will feel a operational. driver can prevent accidents.
slight pulsation in the brake pedal, The capabilities of an ABS
indicating that the ABS is in the If the ABS indicator lamp does not equipped car must never be
regulating mode. go out or comes on while driving, it exploited in a reckless or dan­
indicates that the ABS has detect­ gerous manner which could
On slippery road surfaces, the ABS ed a malfunction and has switched
will respond even with only slight jeopardize the user’s safety or
off. In this case, the brake system the safety of others.
brake pedal pressure. The pulsat­ functions in the usual manner, but
ing brake pedal can be an indica­ without antilock assistance. We re­
tion of hazardous road conditions, commend that you visit an autho­
and it functions as a reminder to rized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as
take extra care while driving. soon as possible to have the sys­
tem checked.

64
Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp Charge Indicator Lamp Low Engine Oil Level Indicator
The brake pad wear indicator lamp Should the charge indicator lamp Lamp
in the instrument cluster comes on fail to come on prior to starting The indicator lamp comes on with
when the key in the steering lock is when the key is in steering lock the key in steering lock position 2
turned to position 2 and it should position 2 or should it fail to go out and should go out when the engine
go out when the engine is running. after starting or during operation, is running.
If the indicator lamp lights up dur­ this indicates a fault which must be
If the indicator lamp comes on with
ing braking, this shows that the repaired at an authorized
the engine running and at operating
front wheel brake pads are worn MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon
temperature, the engine oil level
down. as possible.
has dropped to approximately the
Have the brake system checked at minimum mark on the dipstick.
Oil Pressure Gauge
an authorized MERCEDES-BENZ When this occurs, the indicator
dealer as soon as possible. The oil pressure at idle speed may lamp will first come on intermittent­
drop to 0.3 bar (4.4 psi) if the ly and then stay on if the oil level
Brake Warning Lamp engine is at operating temperature. drops further. If no oil leaks are
The brake warning lamp will come This will not jeopardize its ope­ noted and there is no loss in en­
on if insufficient brake fluid is in the rational reliability. gine oil pressure, continue to drive
reservoir (key in steering lock posi­ Pressure must, however, rise imme­ to the nearest service station where
tion 2 and parking brake released). diately upon acceleration. the engine oil should be topped to
the “full” mark of the dipstick (see
When the minimum mark on the page 74).
reservoir is reached, have the
brake system checked for brake In addition to the indicator lamp, the
pad thickness and leaks. engine oil level should be periodi­
cally checked with the dipstick, for
To test the brake warning lamp, example during a fuel stop, or
turn key in steering lock to position before a long trip (see page 74).
2. The brake warning lamp comes
on, and should go out when the en­
gine is running.
Exterior Light Failure Indicator Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp Low Engine Coolant Level
Lamp Indicator Lamp
The fuel reserve warning lamp
With the key in steering lock posi­ The indicator lamp comes on with
should come on when the key is
tion 2, a dim indicator lamp comes turned to steering lock position 2, the key in steering lock position 2,
on and must go out with the engine and should go out after the engine and should go out when the engine
running. is running.
is running.
If it comes on with the engine run­
With the key in steering lock posi­ If the warning lamp stays on after ning, the coolant has dropped be­
tion 2 or with the engine running, a the engine starts, or comes on low the required level. If no leaks
bright illumination of this lamp indi­ while driving, it indicates that the are noticeable and the engine tem­
cates an exterior lamp failure. fuel level is down to the reserve perature does not increase, contin­
If an exterior light fails, the indicator quantity (11.5 I [3.0 US gal]). ue to drive to the nearest service
will come on only when that light is Coolant Temperature Gauge station and have coolant added to
switched on. the coolant system (see page 73).
If a brake or turn signal light fails, If the antifreeze mixture is effective
to —30 °C (—22 °F), the boiling point Low Windshield Washer Fluid
the light failure indicator will come Level Indicator Lamp
on when applying the brake or of the coolant in the pressurized
cooling system of your vehicle is The indicator lamp comes on with
actuating the turn signal and stay the key in steering lock position 2
on until the engine is turned off. approx. 130 °C (266 °F) (see also
“ Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc.”). and should go out when the engine
is running.
Caution! During severe operating conditions
and stop-and-go city traffic, the If the indicator lamp comes on with
The indicator lamp will also come the engine running, the level of the
on if an incorrect bulb is installed. coolant temperature may rise close
to the red marking. reservoir has dropped '/3 of the total
If additional lighting equipment is volume. The reservoir should be refill­
installed (e.g. auxiliary headlamps ed with MB Windshield Washer Con­
etc.), be certain to connect into the centrate “S” and water (or commer­
fuse before the failure indicator cially available premixed windshield
monitoring unit in order to avoid washer solvent/anti-freeze, depend­
damaging the system. ing on ambient temperature) at the
next opportunity. The reservoir for
the windshield washer system is lo­
cated in the engine compartment
(see page 112).
66
Outside Temperature Indicator Emission Control
Warning!
The temperature sensor is located Certain systems of the engine
in the front bumper area. Due to its serve to keep the toxic components Inhalation of exhaust gas is
location, the sensor can be affected of the exhaust gases within permis­ hazardous to your health. All
by road or engine heat during idl­ sible limits required by law. exhaust gas contains carbon
ing or slow driving. This means that monoxide, and inhaling it can
These systems, of course, will func­ cause unconsciousness and
the accuracy of the displayed tem­
tion properly only when maintained lead to death.
perature can only be verified by
strictly according to factory specifi­
comparison to a thermometer Do not run the engine in con­
cations. Any adjustments on the en­
placed next to the sensor, not by fined areas (such as a garage)
gine should, therefore, be carried
comparison to external displays out only by qualified MERCEDES- which are not properly ventilat­
(e.g., bank signs, etc.). ed. If you think that exhaust
BENZ technicians. The adjustments
Adaptation to ambient temperature of the engine should not be altered gas fumes are entering the
takes place in steps and depends in any way. Moreover, the specified vehicle while driving, have the
on the prevailing driving conditions service and maintenance jobs must cause determined and correct­
(stop and go or moderate, constant be carried out regularly according ed immediately. If you must
driving) and amount of temperature to MERCEDES-BENZ servicing re­ drive under these conditions,
drive only with at least one

Driving
change. quirements. For details refer to the
Maintenance Booklet. window fully open.

Warning!
The outside temperature indi­
cator is not designed to serve
as an Ice-Warning-Device and
is therefore unsuitable for that
purpose. Indicated tempera­
tures just above freezing point
do not guarantee that the road
surface is free of ice.

67
On-Board Diagnostic System Economical Driving Indicator Engine Oil Consumption
(California models only) (ECONOMY)
Engine oil consumption can only be
The CIS-E control unit monitors The indicator shows the fuel con­ determined after a certain mileage
emission control components that sumption tendency during various has been covered. During the
either provide input signals to or driving modes. break-in period, higher oil con­
receive output signals from the sumption may be noticed and is
High fuel consumption is indicated normal.
control unit. Malfunctions resulting if the pointer moves into the red
from interruptions or failure of any area; economical driving is indicat­
of these components are indicated Traveling Abroad
ed when it is in the black area. The
by the “CHECK ENGINE” indicator indications should only be com­ Abroad, there is a widely-spread
lamp in the instrument cluster and pared when driving within the same MERCEDES-BENZ service network
are simultaneously stored in the gear. at your disposal. If you plan to trav­
CIS-E control unit. el into areas which are not listed in
Do not compare fuel consumption the index of your dealer directory,
If the “CHECK ENGINE” indicator readings between different gears.
lamp comes on, have the system you should request pertinent
The following rule applies: If you information from your authorized
checked at your authorized drive at equal speeds, the fuel con­
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer at the first MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.
sumption is lower in the higher
opportunity. gear, although in this gear the
An on-board test connection with pointer is more frequently in the
pushbutton and light emitting diode red area.
(LED) is located on the engine
compartment firewall, allowing the
accurate detection of system
malfunctions.

68
Winter Driving • Additive for the windshield Tire Chains
washer system: Add MB Con­
Have your car winterized at your Use only tire chains that are tested
centrate “S” to the premixed
authorized MERCEDES-BENZ and recommended by MERCEDES-
windshield washer solvent/anti­
dealer before the onset of winter. BENZ. Your authorized MERCEDES-
freeze which is formulated for
• Engine oil change: If “year- below freezing temperatures BENZ dealer will be glad to advise
round” multigrade engine oil is (see page 41). you on this subject.
not used, be sure to use an Chains should only be used on the
• Test battery: Battery capacity
SAE grade based on ambient rear wheels. Adhere to the manu­
drops with decreasing ambient
temperature. For recommended facturer’s mounting instructions.
temperature. A well charged
engine oil viscosities refer to
battery ensures that the engine After driving a short distance
“Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants,
can always be started, even at retighten the mounted chains.
etc.” and last page.
low ambient temperatures. Tire chains should only be driven
• Check engine coolant anticorro­
• Tires: We recommend M+S ra­ on snow at speeds not to exceed
sion/antifreeze concentration.
dial tires on all four wheels for 50 km/h (30 mph). Remove chains
the winter season. Observe per­ as soon as possible when driving
missible maximum speed for on roads without snow.
M+S radial tires and the legal For tips on driving on slippery
speed limit. winter roads refer to page 18.
 Practical Hints

Hood 72
Checking Coolant Level 73
Adding Coolant 73
Engine Oil Level Check 74
Fluid Level-Automatic
Transmission 75
Spare Wheel, Vehicle Tool Kit,
Jack and Battery 76
Wheels, Tires 77
Changing Wheels 78
Tire Inflation Pressure 79
Headlamp Adjustment 80
Replacing Bulbs 80
Spark Plugs 82
Manual Release of Fuel Filler
Flap 83
Fuses 83
Battery 84
Towing the Vehicle 85
Jump Starting 86
Cleaning and Care of the
Vehicle 87
Ashtray 91
Head Restraints 91
Replacing Windshield Wiper
Blades 92
Luggage or Ski Racks 93
Spare Parts Service 93
 Warning!
To help prevent personal inju­
ry, stay clear of moving parts
when the hood is open and the
engine is running. Be sure the
hood is properly closed before
driving.
The engine is equipped with a
transistorized ignition system.
Because of the high voltage it
is highly dangerous to touch
any components (ignition coil,
distributor, spark plug sockets,
ignition cables, diagnostic
Hood Reach through the opening of the socket) of the ignition system
star in the grill and pull the safety • if the ignition is “on” and the
To open: catch lever behind the radiator grill engine turned manually
Pull hood release handle located in the direction of the arrow, and
on the left side panel below the raise the hood (be sure that wipers • while starting the engine
instrument panel. The hood re­ are resting on windshield). • with the engine running.
leases to the safety catch stop.
To close:
Push hood down firmly.

72
 Checking Coolant Level
Warning!
The coolant reservoir with filler
neck is arranged away from the • Use extreme caution when
radiator. To check the coolant level opening the hood, if there
the vehicle must be parked on level are any signs of steam or
ground. coolant leaking from the
cooling system.
The coolant level must reach:
• Do not remove pressure cap
• the mark indicated on the reser­ on coolant reservoir if engine
voir when the coolant is cold temperature is above 90 °C
• approximately 2 cm (0.8 in) (194 °F). Allow engine to cool
higher when the coolant is hot. down before removing cap.
The coolant reservoir con­
Adding Coolant tains hot fluid and is under
pressure.
1 Coolant reservoir cap If coolant has to be added, a 50/50
mixture of water and MB anticorro­ • Using a rag, turn cap to first
2 Marking for coolant level notch to relieve excess pres­
sion/antifreeze should be used.
sure. If opened immediately,
hot scalding fluid and steam
will be blown out under pres­
sure.

The drain plugs are located on the

right and left side of the engine and

Practical Hints
on the radiator bottom.

73
 Engine Oil Level Check Add oil, if needed, only to
the upper mark (max). Do
The best time to check the engine
not overfill the engine.
oil level is when the oil is warm,
such as during a fuel stop. With the
vehicle on level ground, stop the
engine and wait a few minutes for
the oil to drain back to the oil pan. For viscosity and capacity, see
Wipe the dipstick clean before “Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc.’:
checking. and last page.
For low engine oil level indicator
lamp, see page 65.
oo

il dipstick
il filler cap

74
Fluid Level - The fluid level in the transmission is
Automatic Transmission dependent upon its temperature.
The maximum and minimum oil le­
Check the fluid level in the auto­ vel marks on the dipstick are ap­
matic transmission regularly and plicable references only if the
prior to an extended trip. transmission fluid has reached its
Check transmission fluid level with normal operating temperature of
the engine idling, parking brake en­ 80 °C (176 °F).
gaged and selector lever in position
“P”. The vehicle must be parked on Important!
level ground. Prior to the check, al­ If the transmission fluid cools down
low engine to idle for approx. 1 to to 20-30 °C (68-86 °F), which is
2 minutes. the normal shop temperature range,
Measure fluid level with the dipstick then the maximum fluid level will be
completely inserted and the locking approximately 10 mm (0.4 in) below
lever released (1). the minimum mark on the dipstick.
We stress this point because a fluid
Extreme cleanliness must be ob­ change is normally performed when
served! To wipe the dipstick, use a the transmission fluid has cooled
clean, lint-free cloth. To fill the down to shop temperature.
transmission with fluid, pour it
through a fine-mesh filter into the The fluid level must not exceed the
dipstick opening. Even the slightest dipstick maximum mark with the
impurity may cause operational fluid at operating temperature. Drain
or siphon off excess fluid, if

Practical Flints
troubles.
required.
Then push dipstick all the way in
and swing locking lever downwards
( 2 ).

75
 Warning!
The jack is designed exclusive­
ly for jacking up the vehicle at
the jack tubes built into either
side of the vehicle. Use the
jack only to lift the vehicle dur­
ing a wheel change. Never get
beneath the vehicle while it is
supported only by the jack.
Keep hands and feet away
from the area under the lifted
vehicle. Always firmly set park­
ing brake and block wheels be­
fore raising vehicle with jack.
Spare Wheel, Vehicle Tool Kit, Close hinged cover (2) in the trunk Do not disengage parking
Jack and Battery floor before opening cover (4). brake while vehicle is raised.
Be certain that the jack is
The spare wheel (1) and tool kit are Open cover (4) by turning latch (5)
always vertical when in use,
stored in a compartment below a fully to the left. especially on hills. Lower the
hinged cover (2) in the trunk floor. The jack (6) and battery are located vehicle onto sufficient capacity
To raise cover, roll back the floor behind cover (4). jackstands before working un­
mat and engage holding strap (3) in der the vehicle.
the trunk lid.

76
Wheels, Tires On new vehicles retightening is Underinflated tires due to a slow
carried out during the 1st inspec­ leak (e.g. due to a nail in the tire)
Replace wheels or tires with the tion. Retightening is also necessary may cause damage such as tread
same designation, manufacturer
whenever wheels are fitted, e.g. separation, bulging, etc. Regular tire
and type as shown on the original
when the spare wheel is used for pressure checks (including the
part. See your authorized
the first time or when a set of spare tire) at intervals of no more
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer for further
wheels with M+S tires is installed. than 14 days are therefore essen­
information.
tial. Keep in mind that hot tires have
Tightening torque: 110 Nm (80 Ib-ft). a higher pressure than cold tires.
Warning! (See tire pressure chart on fuel fil­
For tire specifications, refer to
Do not mix different tire cons­ “Technical Data”. ler door and the last page.) If a tire
truction types (i.e. radial, bias, constantly loses air, it should be in­
and bias-belted) on your car Note: spected for damage.
because handling may be ad­ The use of retread tires is not Use only genuine MERCEDES-
versely affected and may result recommended. Retread tires may BENZ wheel bolts (identified by
in loss of control. adversely affect the handling Mercedes star)!
characteristics and safety of the Thoroughly clean the inner side of
See your authorized MERCEDES- vehicle. the wheels any time you rotate the
BENZ dealer for information on
wheels or wash vehicle underside.
tested and recommended wheels Rotating wheels:
and tires for summer and winter Dented or bent rims cause tire
The wheels can be rotated accord­
operation. They can also offer more pressure loss and damage to the
ing to the degree of tire wear while tire beads. For this reason, check
advice concerning tire service and
retaining the same direction of trav­ rims for damage at regular intervals.
purchase.
el. Rotating, however, should be
Front tires should be replaced in carried out before the characteristic The rim flanges must be checked
sets. If possible, the spare tire tire wear pattern (shoulder wear on for wear before a tire is mounted.
should be used on the rear wheels. front wheels and tread center wear Remove burrs, if there are any.
We recommend that you break in on rear wheels) becomes visible at
new tires for approx. 100 km a mileage of 5000-10000 km
(60 miles) at moderate speed. (3000-6000 miles) as otherwise the
It is imperative that the wheel driving properties deteriorate.
mounting bolts be retightened after
approx. 800 km (500 miles).
 5. Using the combination wrench,
loosen but do not yet remove set parking brake and block
the wheel bolts. wheels before raising vehicle
with jack.
6. Clean jack supporting tube, if
necessary. (Jack tubes are be­ 9. Then unscrew wheel bolts
hind the front wheel housings completely. Keep bolt threads
and in front of the rear wheel protected from dirt and sand.
housings.) While removing last bolt, hold
7. Insert jack arm fully into the wheel against hub to avoid
tube hole up to the stop. paint damage on rim.
8. Position the jack so that it will 10. Remove wheel.
always be vertical (plumb-line) 11. Screw the alignment stud,
as seen from the side (see ar­ which comes with the spare
row), even on inclines. Jack up tire, into the upper threaded
Changing Wheels the vehicle until the wheel is hole of the hub prior to instal­
clear off the ground. ling wheel.
1. Move vehicle a safe distance off
the roadway. 12. Adjust the jack height so that
Warning!
2. Set parking brake and turn on the wheel can be slipped on
hazard warning flasher. The jack is designed exclu­ without being lifted.
3. Move selector lever to position “P”. sively for jacking up the 13. Install spare wheel on wheel
vehicle at the jack tubes hub. Insert wheel bolts and
4. Prevent vehicle from rolling built into either side of the
away by blocking wheels with tighten them slightly. To avoid
vehicle. Use the jack only to paint damage, place wheel flat
wheel chocks or sizeable wood lift the vehicle during a
block or stone (not supplied against hub and hold it there
wheel change. Never get while installing first wheel bolt.
with vehicle): When changing a beneath the vehicle while it
wheel on a hill, place chocks on Unscrew the alignment stud to
is supported only by the install the last wheel bolt.
the downhill side of each wheel jack. Keep hands and feet
of the other axle; on a level away from the area under 14. Lower car and remove jack.
road, place one chock in front the lifted tire. Jack stands
of and one behind the wheel must be used when working
that is diagonally opposite to the under the vehicle. Always
wheel being changed.
78
15. Tighten the five bolts evenly by Tire Inflation Pressure Tire pressures listed for light loads
tightening every other bolt until are minimum values offering high
all the bolts are tight. A table (see fuel filler flap or last driving comfort. Increased inflation
Observe a tightening torque of page) lists the tire inflation pres­ pressures for heavy loads produce
110 Nm (80 Ib-ft). sures specified for summer and favorable handling characteristics
winter tires as well as for the vary­ with lighter loads and are perfectly
16. Correct tire pressure. ing operating conditions. permissible. The ride of the vehicle,
Important! however, will become somewhat
Important!
harder.
Retighten wheel mounting bolts
Tire pressure differs by approx. Tire temperature and pressure in­
after approx. 800 km (500 miles).
0.1 bar (1.5 psi) per 10 °C (18 °F) of crease with the vehicle speed. Tire
Observe a tightening torque of
air temperature change. Keep this pressure should therefore only be
110 Nm (80 Ib-ft).
in mind when checking tire pres­ corrected on cold tires. Correct tire
sure inside a garage - especially in pressure in hot tires only if
the winter. pressure has dropped below the
pressure listed in the table and the
Example:
respective operating conditions are
If garage temperature = taken into consideration.
approx. +20 °C (+68 °F)
and, ambient temperature =
approx. 0 °C (+32 °F)
then the adjusted air pressure =
specified air pressure + 0.2 bar
(+3 psi).

Practical Hints
79
Headlamp Adjustment Front Lamps 6 High beam sealed-beam unit
(Halogen) No. 1:
Correct headlamp adjustment is ex­ 1 Cover
tremely important. Check and read­ Loosen clamping screws (9),
2 Securing screws for cover
just headlamps at regular intervals remove retaining ring and lamp,
and when a bulb has been 3 Horizontal adjusting screws disconnect plug from socket on
replaced. 4 Vertical adjusting screws lamp.
5 High/low beam sealed-beam 7 Side marker lamp (4 W/2 cp
Replacing Bulbs
unit (Halogen) No. 2: bulb):
Install only 12 volt bulbs with the Remove headlamp (5), loosen
specified watt rating. Remove cover (1). clamping screw (10) and detach
Loosen clamping screws (8), lamp holder. Depress bulb, turn
remove retaining ring and lamp, left and pull out.
disconnect plug from socket on
lamp.

80
13 Bulb for turn signal, parking 14 Bulb for fog lamp (H3): Taillamp Assembly
and standing lamps (21/5 W/ Loosen securing screws (15)
32/3 cp): and remove housing. Remove both knurled nuts in the
Detach holding spring (16), trunk and pull off bulb carrier. To
The lamps are located below replace the bulbs, depress, turn left
the bumper. remove bulb (14) and discon­
nect plug (17). and pull out.
Loosen securing screws (11) 1 Backup lamp (21 W/32 cp bulb)
and remove lens (12).
2 Stop lamp (21 W/32 cp bulb)

Practical Hints
Depress bulb (13), turn left and
pull out. When replacing the 3 Tail, parking and standing lamp
lens, it must be ensured that (10 W bulb)
the protrusion on the lens is at 4 Turn signal lamp
the bottom. (21 W/32 cp bulb)
side marker lamp
(5 W bulb)

81
High Mounted Stop Lamp Spark Plugs
(H2/22.5 W bulb)
This vehicle is equipped with spark
To replace the bulb, open trunk lid. plugs as required for driving in the
Unscrew four nuts, remove lamp USA. If additional information is de­
housing and gasket, remove bulb. sired, your authorized MERCEDES-
BENZ dealer will be happy to offer
advice (see also rear inside cover
of Owner’s Manual).

License Plate Lamps

(5 W bulb)
Loosen both securing screws (1),
detach lens with gasket (2) and pull
down lamp holder (3) on the LH
side. Replace the bulb. When
reinstalling the lens, it must be
assured that the protrusion on the
lens is on the LH side.

82
 Fuses
The fuse box (1) is located in the
RH side foot well.
All equipment protected by fuses
are listed by number and letter on
a label in the cover (2). The num­
bers and letters above the fuses
correspond to the ones on the
::M;x:xvXv.'.v.'.... label.
Fuses must not be repaired or
bridged. Always use a new fuse for
replacement.
Spare fuses (observe amperage
and color) are stored with the
Manual Release of Fuel Filler Flap vehicle tool kit.
If the central locking system does Diagnose the cause of a short
not release the fuel filler flap auto­ circuit before replacing a blown
matically, access to the actuating fuse.
vacuum element may be gained
through the trunk. Pull down right
trunk panel slightly and pull back
the knob (arrow) on the vacuum

Practical Hints
element while opening the filler flap.

83
Battery Coat battery terminal clamps with
acid-proof grease. Keep battery Warning!
The battery is located in the trunk. clean and dry. Battery fluid contains sulfuric
Check electrolyte level in each cell The service life of the battery is acid. Do not allow this fluid to
approximately every 3 months, and also dependent on its condition of come in contact with eyes,
more frequently during the summer charge. It must be maintained suffi­ skin, or clothing.
and in hot climates. ciently charged for the battery to In case it does, immediately
Refill battery only with distilled wat­ last an optimum length of time. flush affected area with water;
er. Do not use metal funnels or Therefore, we recommend that you if necessary seek medical help.
push through the overfill-protection have the battery charge checked A battery will also produce
diaphragms in filler holes. frequently if you use the vehicle hydrogen gas, which is flam­
The battery is completely filled mostly for short distance trips, or if mable and explosive. Keep
when the water stops draining it is not used for long periods of flames or sparks away from
through the overfill-protection time. battery, avoid improper con­
diaphragm. Only charge battery with a battery nection of jumper cables,
To check the battery charge with a charger when it is disconnected smoking, etc..
hydrometer, push its tip through the from the vehicle electrical circuit. While the engine is running the
overfill-protection diaphragm and battery terminal clamps must
take an electrolyte sample. not be loosened or detached
as otherwise the alternator and
other electronic units would be
damaged.
Only tow vehicle with the bat­
tery connected.

84
Towing the Vehicle The vehicle may be towed with all drive flange on any towing beyond
wheels on the ground and the a short tow to a nearby garage.
The front towing eye is located on selector lever in position “N” for
the passenger-side below the air- Do not tow with sling-type equip­
distances up to 120 km (75 miles) ment.
darn and the rear towing eye on the and at a speed not to exceed
passenger-side below the bumper. 50 km/h (30 mph). Towing with sling-type equipment
We recommend that the vehicle be will damage radiator and supports.
To positively avoid a possibility of
transported using flat bed equip­ damage to the transmission, Use wheel lift or flat bed equipment
ment. This method is preferable however, we recommend to discon­ only.
over other types of towing.
nect the drive shaft at the rear axle
Jump Starting 4. Clamp one end of the second Important!
jumper cable to the grounded A discharged battery can freeze at
If the battery is discharged, the en­ negative (-) terminal of the dis­
gine can be started with jumper approx. -1 0 °C (+14 °F). In that
charged battery and the final case it must be thawed out before
cables and the (12 V) battery of connection to a grounded heavy
another vehicle. jumper cables are used.
metal bracket in the engine
Proceed as follows: compartment or on the engine Jumper cable specifications:
1. Position the vehicle with the of the vehicle with the charged • Minimum cable cross-section of
charged battery so that the jum­ battery. Make sure the cables 25 mm2 or approx. 2 AWG
per cables will reach, but never are not on or near pulleys, fans,
let the vehicles touch. Make or other parts that will move • Maximum length of 3500 mm
sure the jumper cables do not when the engine is started. (11.5 ft).
have loose or missing insulation.
5. Start engine of the vehicle with
2. On both vehicles: the charged battery and run at Warning!
• Turn off engine and all lights high idle. Then start engine of
the disabled vehicle in the usual Never lean over batteries while
and accessories, except ha­ jump starting, you might get
zard flashers or work lights. manner.
burned.
• Apply parking brake and 6. After the engine has started,
remove jumper cables by re­ Battery fluid contains sulfuric
shift selector lever to posi­ acid. Do not allow this fluid to
tion “P”. versing the above installation
sequence exactly, starting with come in contact with eyes,
• Be sure the battery vent skin, or clothing. In case it
the jumper cable connected to a
caps are tight. Place a damp does, immediately flush affect­
heavy metal bracket in the en­
cloth over the vent caps, ed area with water, and seek
gine compartment of the vehicle
making certain it is clear of medical help.
with the charged battery. When
all moving parts.
removing each clamp, make A battery will also produce
3. First clamp one end of the first sure that they do not touch any hydrogen gas, which is flam­
jumper cable to the positive (+) other metal while the other ends mable and explosive. Keep
terminal on the charged battery are still attached. flames or sparks away from
and the other end to the positive battery, avoid improper con­
(+) terminal on the discharged nection of jumper cables,
battery. Make sure the cable smoking, etc..
clamps do not touch any other
metal parts.
86
Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle You should check your vehicle We have selected car-care pro­
from time to time for stone chipping ducts and compiled recommenda­
In operation, your vehicle is sub­ or other damage. Any damage tions which are specially matched
jected to varying external influences should be repaired as soon as pos­ to our vehicles and which always
which, if gone unchecked, can at­ sible to prevent the start of corro­ reflect the latest technology. You
tack the paintwork as well as the sion. can obtain MB car-care products at
underbody and cause lasting dam­ your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
age. In doing so, do not neglect the un­
dealer.
derside of the car. A prerequisite
Such damage is caused not only for a thorough check is a washing Scratches, corrosive deposits, cor­
by extreme and varying climatic of the underbody followed by a rosion or damage due to negligent
conditions, but also by air pollution, thorough inspection. Damaged or incorrect care cannot always be
road salt, tar, gravel and stone areas need to be re-undercoated. removed or repaired with the car-
chipping. Grease and oil, fuel, cool­ care products recommended here.
ant, brake fluid, bird droppings, tree Your vehicle has been treated at
the factory with a wax-base rust- In such cases it is best to seek aid
resins, etc. should be removed im­ at your authorized MERCEDES-
mediately to avoid paint damage. proofing in the body cavities which
BENZ dealer.
Frequent washing, however, re­ will last for the lifetime of the
duces and/or eliminates the ag­ vehicle. Post-production treatment The following topics deal with the
gressiveness and potency of the is neither necessary nor recom­ cleaning and care of your vehicle
above adverse influences. mended by MERCEDES-BENZ be­ and give important “how-to” infor­
cause of the possibility of incompa­ mation as well as references to
More frequent washings are neces­ tibility between materials used in recommended MB car-care pro­
sary to deal with unfavorable condi­ the production process and others ducts.
tions; for example, near the ocean, applied later.
in industrial areas (smoke, exhaust
emissions), or during winter opera­
tion.
Engine Cleaning If the vehicle has been run through Plastic Parts, Headliner
an automatic car wash - in particu­ and Rubber Parts
Corrosion protection, such as MB lar one of the older installations -
Anti-corrosion Wax, should be rewipe the recessed sections in the Do not use oil or wax on these
applied to the engine compartment taillamps (designed to prevent soil­ parts. See following page for additi­
after every engine cleaning. Before ing) if necessary. No solvents onal information.
applying, all control linkage bushings (fuels, thinners etc.) must be used.
should be lubricated. The V-belts Seat Belts
and all pulleys should be protected In the winter, thoroughly remove all
traces of road salt as soon as pos­ The webbing must not be treated
from any wax. with chemical cleaning agents. Use
sible.
Car Washing only clear, lukewarm water and
When washing the underbody, do soap. Do not dry the webbing at
Before washing your vehicle, not forget to clean the inner sides temperatures above 80 °C (176 °F)
remove insect residues. MB Insect of the wheels. or in direct sunlight. Never bleach
Remover is recommended. Do not or re-dye the webbing as this may
use hot water or wash your car in Tar Stains severely weaken the belts.
direct sunlight. Use only a mild car Quickly remove tar stains before
wash detergent, such as MB Auto­ they dry and become more difficult Instrument Cluster
shampoo. to remove. MB Tar Remover is Use a gentle dish-washing deter­
Thoroughly spray the car with a dif­ recommended. gent or mild detergent for delicate
fused jet of water. Direct only a fabrics as a washing solution. Wipe
very weak spray towards the venti­ Window Cleaning, Wiper Blades with a cloth moistened in lukewarm
lation intake. Use plenty of water Use a window cleaning solution on solution. Do not use scouring
and rinse the sponge and chamois very dirty or oil-stained windows. agents.
frequently. Clean the wiper blade rubber with a
Rinse with clear water and thor­ clean cloth and detergent solution.
oughly wipe dry with a chamois. Do Replace blades twice a year; once
not allow cleaning agents to dry on before and once after winter.
the finish.
Never run the vehicle through an
automatic car wash with the soft
top in use.

88
Steering Wheel and Paintwork, Painted Body Light Alloy Wheels
Selector Lever Components
MB-Autoshampoo should be used
Wipe with a damp cloth and dry MB-Paint Protector and Sealer for regular cleaning of the light
thoroughly or clean with MB- should be applied when water alloy wheels.
Leather Cleaner. drops on the paint surface do not If possible, clean wheels once a
“bead up” ; normally in 3 -5 months week with MB-Autoshampoo, using
Upholstery depending on climate and washing a soft sponge and an ample supply
detergent used. of lukewarm water.
Using aftermarket seat covers or
wearing clothing that have the ten­ MB-Paint Polish should be applied If the MB-Autoshampoo does not
dency to give off coloring (e.g. if paint surface shows signs of dirt satisfactorily clean the wheels, use
when wet, etc.) may cause the embedding (i.e. loss of gloss). MB-Protective Agent for Light Alloy
upholstery (velour for example) to MB-Fine Polishing Paste must be Wheels for normal cleaning and
become permanently discolored. By used when the paint surface shows MB-Cleaner for Light Alloy Wheels
lining the seats with a proper inter­ signs of excessive fading/chalking for heavier dirt accumulation.
mediate cover, contact-discolora- due to lack of care, etc..
tion will be prevented. Follow instructions on container.
Do not apply any of these products
Leather Upholstery or wax if your car is parked in the Ornamental Moldings
Wipe leather upholstery with a sun or if the hood is still hot. For regular cleaning and care of
damp cloth and dry thoroughly or Use the appropriate MB-Touch-Up very dirty chrome-plated parts, use
clean with MB leather care. Exer­ Stick for quick and provisional re­ a chrome cleaner.
cise particular care when cleaning pairs of minor paint damage (i.e.
perforated leather as its underside chips from stones, car doors, etc.).
should not become wet.
Automatic Antenna
For trouble-free operation of the
automatic antenna, we recommend
to clean the antenna mast periodi­
cally.
Soft Top Dry cleaning: If only parts of the top have been
Brush top (always from front to washed, wet the entire top and
Stow the soft top in the storage allow it to air-dry before folding it
compartment only if the top is rear) with a soft-bristled brush.
away into the storage compartment.
completely dry. If the top is kept in
Wet cleaning: Wipe the rear window with a cloth
the storage compartment for a
soaked with a mild, non-abrasive
lengthy period, unfold and air it out Brush the dry top. Wash with a mild detergent, rinse, and rub dry. Do
with the windows down about every detergent and an ample supply of not use sharp-edged instruments
4 months. lukewarm water by wiping with a for the removal of ice and snow.
Remove bird droppings immediate­ soft-bristled brush or a sponge
ly. The organic acid damages the from front to rear. Then rinse
material and causes the top to leak. thoroughly with clear water.
In general, regular spraying or
cleansing with clear water will do.
Wash top only when heavily soiled,
not every time the car is washed.
Never run the vehicle through an
automatic car wash with the soft
top in place.

Caution!
Never use any gasoline, thinner,
tar and stain removers or similar
organic solvents to clean the soft
top or plastic windows.

90
 Installing head restraints:
Insert the head restraint and push it
down.
Adjust head restraint to the desired
position.

Warning!
For your protection, drive only
with properly positioned head
restraints.
Do not drive the vehicle
without the head restraints.
Head restraints are intended to
Ashtray Head Restraints help reduce injuries during an
accident.
Removal of ashtray: Removing head restraints:
Pull out ashtray up to the stop. Move the head restraint slightly for­ For positioning of head restraints
Depress center locking spring (1) ward and pull up to the stop. refer to page 31.
and remove ashtray. Depress release button (1) beneath
To install ashtray: the seatback covering material and
pull head restraint up sharply, hold­
Position ashtray squarely and push ing it by the left head restraint post

Practical Hints
in. (viewed in driving direction). Then
pull out head restraint completely
with both hands.
The release button (1) is located
below the left head restraint post
on both seats.

91
Replacing Windshield Wiper Installation:
Blades On the driver side, slide the wiper
Remove key from steering lock be­ blade onto the wiper arm into one
fore replacing a wiper blade. of 3 positions, so that it wipes to
the top edge of the windshield but
Removal: does not contact the windshield
Fold wiper arm forward and rotate moulding.
wiper blade until perpendicular to On the passenger side, slide the
wiper arm. Press safety tab and wiper blade with plastic pivot onto
slide wiper blade out of wiper arm. the wiper arm until it locks in place.
Luggage or Ski Racks Spare Parts Service MERCEDES-BENZ original spare
parts are subjected to the most
We recommend the use of drip rail All authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
stringent quality inspections. Each
or trim strip mounted ski and roof dealers maintain a stock of original
part has been specifically devel­
racks. These racks do not require spare parts required for main­
oped, manufactured or selected for
additional supports (suction cups tenance and repair work. In addi­
and adapted to MERCEDES-BENZ
or legs). Such supports may lead to tion, strategically located parts dis­
vehicles.
marring of the paint or even denting tribution centers provide quick and
of the roof if excessive weight is reliable parts service. More than Therefore, MERCEDES-BENZ origin­
placed on the rack. Your authorized 300,000 different spare parts, even al spare parts should be installed.
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer can give for older models, are available.
further advice.
 Technical Data
Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc.
Consumer Information

Identification Plates 96
Theft Prevention 97
Vehicle Data Cards 98
Warranty Coverage 98
Technical Data 99
Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc. 100
Capacities 100
Engine Oils 102
Brake Fluid 102
Premium Unleaded Gasoline 102
Fuel Requirements 102
Coolants 103
Consumer Information 104
Identification Plates 1 Certification Tag
(left door pillar)
When ordering spare parts, please
specify vehicle identification and 2 Identification Tag
engine numbers. (left window post)
3 Vehicle Identification No.
4 Body No. and Paintwork No.
5 Engine No.
6 Information Tag
California version
Vacuum line routing for
emission control system
7 Emission Control Tag

96
 Location of labels
1 Bumper front/rear
2 Engine hood
3 Trunk lid
4 All fenders
5 All doors

Engine*:
on engine block, left rear
Transmission*:
on transmission, left front
* no t show n in illu s tra tio n

Technical Data
Theft Prevention replacement) instead of the
This vehicle complies with the VIN-number.
Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Preven­ Note:
tion Standard (49 CFR Part 541).
Do not remove these labels. These
Engine, transmission and certain
labels are intended for parts identi­
body parts (see illustration) are
fication in case of theft. When
labeled at the factory, the labels
replacing parts subject to labeling,
show the VIN-number of this
please make sure that the parts
vehicle.
you receive are labeled properly.
Spare parts are similarly labeled at This is especially important when
the factory in a different location. work is performed outside of the
The labels show the letter R (for United States.

97
Vehicle Data Cards Warranty Coverage Loss of Owner’s Service and
Warranty Policy
Your car is covered under the
terms of the “warranties” printed in Should you lose your Owner’s
the Owner’s Service and Warranty Service and Warranty Policy Book­
Policy Booklet, and your authorized let, have your authorized
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer will ex­ MERCEDES-BENZ dealer arrange
change or repair any defective for a replacement. It will be mailed
parts in accordance with the terms to you.
of the following warranties:
1. New vehicle limited warranty
2. Emission system warranty
3. Emission performance warranty

The vehicle data cards bear all the 4. California emission control
important data relating to your systems warranty (State of
California only, unless pur­
vehicle.
chased optionally for diesel
Data card No. 1 bears the key models).
number and should never be left in
the vehicle. Submit this card to
your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
dealer to request a replacement
key in case of loss.
Data card No. 2 has no key number
information and should be kept in
the Maintenance Booklet where
indicated.

98
Technical Data

Model________ 560 SL (107 048)1 Rims - Tires

Rims
Engine (forged light alloy rims) 7 J x 15 H2
Wheel offset 25 mm (1.0 in)
Enqine tvoe 117 Summer tires:
Mode of operation 4-stroke engine, Radial-plv tires 205/65 VR 15
qasoline injection Winter tires:
No. of cylinders 8 Radial-plv tires 205/65 R 15 93 T M+S
Bore 96.50 mm (3.80 in)
Stroke 94.80 mm (3.73 in)
Total piston displacement 5547 cm3 (338.5 in3) Electrical System
Compression ratio 9
Output acc. to SAE J 1349 170 kW/4750 rpm Alternator 14 V/70 A
(227 hp/4750 rpm) Starter motor 12 V/1.5 kW
Maximum torque acc. to Battery 12 V/92 Ah
SAE J 1349 380 Nm/3250 rpm Spark plugs rear inside cover
(279 ft-lb/3250 rpm)
Firinq order 1 -5 -4 -8 -6 -3 -7 -2 Weights__________________ See certification tag
V-belts: Roof load max. 30 kq ( 66 lb)
Water pump - fan - power Trunk load max. 100 kq (220 lb)
steerinq pump 2 V-belts 9.5 x 1110 mm
Alternator 9.5 x 1005 mm
Air conditioninq 12.5 x 960 mm Main Dimensions
Air pump 9.5 x 750 mm
Overall vehicle lenqth 4580 mm (180.3 in)
Overall vehicle width 1790 mm ( 70.5 in)
Overall heiqht 1297 mm ( 51.1 in)
Wheel base 2455 mm ( 96.7 in)
Track, front 1465 mm ( 57.7 in)
Track, rear 1466 mm ( 57.7 in)
1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See an author­
ized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer for the corresponding data of all
special bodies and special equipment.
Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc. Capacities
Vehicle components and their
respective lubricants must match.
Therefore use only brands tested
and recommended by us. Inquire at
your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
dealer.

Capacity Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Engine with oil filter 8.0 I (8.5 US qt)

1 SAE 40 may be used if ambient temperature constantly

exceed +30 °C (+86 °F).

Initial fill: 8.6 I (9. US qt)

Automatic transmission MB Automatic transmission fluid
Fluid change: 7.7 I (8.1 US qt)

100
 Capacity Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.

Hypoid gear oil SAE 90 for limited

Rear axle 1.3 I (1.4 US qt)
slip differential1

Accelerator control linkage Hydraulic fluid1

Power steering 1.3 I (1.4 US qt) MB Power steering fluid

High temperature roller

Front wheel hubs approx. 65 g (2.3 oz) each
bearing grease

Grease nipples Multipurpose or lubrication grease

Door locks Powdered graphite

Battery terminals Bosch special grease (acid proof)

Brake reservoir approximately 0.5 I (0.5 US qt) MB Brake fluid (DOT4)

Windshield washer system approximately 5.0 I (5.3 US qt) MB Windshield washer concentrate “S” 2

Premium unleaded gasoline:

Fuel tank approximately 85 I (22.5 US gal) Posted Octane 91
including a reserve of approximately 11.5 I (3.0 US gal)
(Average of 96 RON/86 MON)

Cooling system 13.0 I (13.7 US qt) MB Anticorrosion/antifreeze

1 Your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer will advise
you on recommended brands.
2 Use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and
water for temperatures above freezing or MB Wind­
shield Washer Concentrate “S” and commercially
available premixed windshield washer solvent/anti­
freeze for temperatures below freezing. Follow
suggested mixing ratios, on page 41.
Engine Oils Premium Unleaded Gasoline Fuel Requirements
Engine oils are specifically tested Caution! Use only Premium unleaded meet­
for their suitability in our engines. ing ASTM standard D 439:
To maintain the engines durability
Therefore, use only engine oils re­ The octane number (posted at the
commended by MERCEDES-BENZ. and performance, premium unlead­
ed gasoline must be used. If prem­ pump) must be 91 min. It is an
Information on recommended average of both, the Research (R)
ium unleaded is not available and
brands is available at your author­ octane number and the Motor (M)
ized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer. low octane fuel is use, follow these
precautions: octane number: [(R+M)/2], This is
also known as ANTI-KNOCK INDEX.
Brake Fluid • have the fuel tank filled only
partially with unleaded regular Unleaded gasoline containing
During vehicle operation, the boiling oxygenates such as Ethanol, MTBE,
and fill up with premium un­
point of the brake fluid is continu­ IPA, IBA and TBA can be used pro­
ously reduced through the absorption leaded as soon as possible,
vided the ratio of any one of these
of moisture from the atmosphere. • avoid full throttle driving and oxygenates to gasoline does not
Under extremely hard operating abrupt acceleration, exceed 10%.
conditions, this moisture content • do not exceed an engine speed
can lead to the formation of The ratio of Methanol to gasoline
of 3000 rpm, if the vehicle is must not exceed 3% plus additional
bubbles in the system thus reduc­ loaded with a light load such as
ing the system’s efficiency. cosolvents.
two persons and no luggage,
The brake fluid must therefore be Using mixtures of Ethanol and
• do not exceed % of maximum Methanol is not allowed. MTBE
replaced annually, preferably in the accelerator pedal position, if the
spring. may, however, be added up to 15%
vehicle is fully loaded or oper­ Gasohol, which contains 10%
It is recommended to use only ating in mountainous terrain. Ethanol and 90% unleaded
brake fluid approved by gasoline, can be used.
MERCEDES-BENZ. Your authorized
MERCEDES-BENZ dealer will These blends must also meet all
provide you with additional other fuel requirements such as
information. resistance to spark knock, boiling
range, vapor pressure, etc..

102
Coolants tection to approx. -4 5 °C [-4 9 °F]), Therefore the following product is
the engine temperature will in­ strongly recommended for use in
The engine coolant is a mixture of
crease due to the lower heat trans­ your car: MERCEDES-BENZ Anti­
water and MB anticorrosion/anti­
fer capability of the solution. There­ corrosion/Antifreeze Agent.
freeze, which provides: fore, do not use more than this
Before the start of the winter
• corrosion protection amount of anticorrosion/antifreeze. season (or once a year in the hot
• freeze protection
If the coolant level is low, water and southern regions), you should have
• boiling protection (by increasing
MB anticorrosion/antifreeze should the anticorrosion/antifreeze
the boiling point). be used to bring it up to the proper concentration checked. The coolant
The cooling system was filled at the level (have cooling system checked is also regularly checked each time
factory with a coolant providing for signs of leakage). you bring your vehicle to your

Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc.

freeze protection to approx. —30 °C The water in the cooling system authorized MERCEDES-BENZ
(—22 °F) and corrosion protection. must meet minimum requirements, dealer for maintenance service.
The red area of the temperature which are usually satisfied by
gauge is matched to the heating Approx. freeze Anticorrosion/
normal drinking water. If you are protection
properties of this coolant solution. antifreeze
not sure about the water quality,
The coolant solution must be used consult your authorized - 3 0 °C )
year round to provide the neces­ MERCEDES-BENZ dealer. (-22 °F) J 5.75 I (6.1 US qt)
sary corrosion protection and
increase in the boilover protection. Anticorrosion/antifreeze -4 5 °C I
(-49 °F) } 6.75 I (7.1 US qt)
You should have it replaced every Your vehicle contains a number of
3 years. aluminium parts. The use of alumini­
To provide the important corrosion um components in motor vehicle
protection, the solution must be at engines necessitates that anticorro­
least 40 % anticorrosion/antifreeze sion/antifreeze coolant used in
(equals a freeze protection to such engines be specifically
approx. —25 °C [-13 °F]). If you use formulated to protect the aluminium
a solution that is more than 55% parts. (Failure to use such anti­
anticorrosion/antifreeze (freeze pro­ corrosion/antifreeze coolant will
result in a significantly shortened
service life.)

103
Consumer Information Treadwear Temperature “A”, “B”, “C”
This has been prepared as required The treadwear grade is a compara­ The temperature grades of “A” (the
of all manufacturers of passenger tive rating based on the wear rate highest). “B” and “C” representing
cars under Title 49, Code of U.S. of the tire when tested under con­ the tire’s resistance to the genera­
Federal Regulations, Part 575 pur­ trolled conditions on a specified tion of heat and its ability to dissip­
suant to the “National Traffic and government test course. For ate heat when tested under con­
Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”. example, a tire graded 150 would trolled conditions on a specified in­
wear one and a half (IV2) times as door laboratory test wheel.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading well on the government course as a Sustained high temperature can
tire graded 100. The relative perform­ cause the material of the tire to
Relevant tire grade information on ance of tires depends upon the degenerate and reduce tire life, and
tire sidewalls. actual conditions of their use, how­ excessive temperature can lead to
All passenger car tires must ever, and may depart significantly sudden tire failure. The grade “C”
conform to federal safety require­ from the norm due to variations in corresponds to a level of per­
ments. In addition, consumer infor­ driving habits, service practices and formance which all passenger car
mation on treadwear, traction and differences in road characteristics tires must meet under the Federal
temperature must be provided. and climate. Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No.
Traction “A”, “B”, “C” 109. Grades “B” and “A” represent
higher levels of performance in the
The traction grades, from highest to laboratory test than the minimum
lowest, are “A”, “B” and “C” and they required by law.
represent the tire’s ability to stop on
wet pavement as measured under
controlled conditions on specified Warning!
government test surfaces of asphalt
and concrete. A tire marked “C” may The temperature grade for this
have poor traction performance. tire is established for a tire
that is properly inflated and not
Warning! overloaded. Excessive speed,
underinflation, or excessive
The traction grade assigned to
loading, either separately or in
this tire is based on braking
combination, can cause exces­
(straight ahead) traction tests
and does not include cornering sive heat build up and possible
(turning) traction. tire failure.

104
Service Literature
Warning!
Your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer has trained
technicians and original MERCEDES-BENZ parts to To help avoid personal injury, be extremely
service your vehicle properly. For expert advice and careful when performing any maintenance work
quality service, see your authorized MERCEDES- or repairs. Improper or incomplete service may
BENZ dealer. damage the vehicle or its equipment, which may
in turn result in personal injury.
Customers who are interested in ordering service lite­
rature for their vehicles are advised to contact If you have any question about carrying out
MERCEDES-BENZ distributors in the U.S. or Canada some service, turn to the advice of an autho­
at the following addresses, respectively rized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.
for U.S.A.: Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc.
One Mercedes Drive
P. O. Box 350
Montvale, New Jersey 07645
Att: Technical Publications
Tel: (201) 573-0600
for Canada: Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.
849 Eglinton Ave., East
Toronto, Ont., Canada
M4G2 L5
Att: Technical Publications
Tel: 416-425-3550
Telex: 065-24232
The above companies will be happy to handle any
such requests from customers.
We consider this to be the best way to obtain ac­
curate information for your vehicle.
Index
Airbag 36 Doors 28 Fog lamps 81
Alarm system 30 Driver checks 112 Fuel filler flap 83
Alloy wheels 89 Driving instructions 16 Fuel requirements 102
Antenna 57, 89 Fuel reserve warning
Anticorrosion/antifreeze 103 Economical driving lamp 66
Ashtray 91 indicator (ECONOMY) 68 Fuels, coolants,
Automatic climate control 22 Emergency tensioning lubricants, etc. 100
Automatic transmission 60 retractors (ETR) 35 Fuses 83
Emission control 67
Battery 76, 84 Emission control tag 96 Gauges 12, 65, 66
Body no. 96 Engine no. 96 Coolant temperature 66
Brake fluid 102 Engine oil and Fuel 12
Brake pad wear filter change 19 Oil pressure 65
indicator lamp 65 Engine oil consumption 68
Brake, parking 60 Engine oil level check 74 Headlamps 41, 80
Brakes 16 Engine oils 102 Head restraints 31,91
Brakes, ABS 64 Engine starting Heated seats 32
Brake warning lamp 65 and turning off 15 Hood 72
Break-in period 8 Exterior lamp switch 40
Exterior light failure Identification plates 96
Capacities 100 indicator lamp 66 Indicator lamps 13,65,66
Catalytic converter 14 Brake pad wear 65
Central locking system 29 Brake warning 65
Certification tag 96 Charging system 65
Charge indicator lamp 65 Check engine 13
Cleaning and care of Exterior light failure 66
the vehicle 87 Fuel reserve 66
Combination switch 41 Low coolant 66
Consumer information 104 Low engine oil 65
Coolant level check 73 Low washer fluid 66
Coolants 101, 103 Symbols 13
Coolant temperature Instruments and controls 10
gauge 66 Instrument cluster 12
Cruise control 62

108
Jack 76 Paintwork no. 96 Technical data 99
Jump starting 86 Parking 18 Theft prevention 97
Parking brake 60 Tire chains 69
Keys 27 Premium unleaded Tire inflation pressure 79
gasoline 101, 102 Tires 17,77,104
Lamps, exterior 4 0 ,8 0 ,8 1 ,8 2 Tool kit 76
Fog lamps 81 Radio 50 Towing 85
Headlamps 80 Rear view mirrors 42 Transmission, fluid
High mounted stop lamp 82 Rear window defroster 44 level check 75
License plate lamps 82 Restraint systems, Traveling abroad 68
Switch 40 infants and children 38 Turn signals 41
Taillamps 81 Roadside assistance 4
Lamps, interior 45 Upholstery, cleaning 89
Lighter 43 Seat belts 33
Literature 105 Warning system 33 Vanity mirrors 43
Lubricants 100 Seats 31 V-belt 99
Luggage or ski racks 93 Service literature 105 Vehicle data cards 98
Soft top 46, 90 Vehicle identification no. 96
Maintenance 4, 19 Spare parts 93
Spare wheel 76 Warranty 4, 98
Oil pressure gauge 65 Spark plugs 82 Wheels 77
On-board diagnostic system Starting and turning Wheels, changing 78
(California models only) 68 off engine 15 Windows 45
Outside temperature Steering lock 39 Windshield washer system 41
indicator 67 Sun visors 43 Winter driving 18,69
Supplemental restraint Wiper blades 88, 92
system (SRS) 33, 35 Replacing 92

Index
Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip 1 Fuel Supply: Turn fuel filler cap
to the left and hold on to it until
possible pressure in tank has
been released, then remove the
cap.
2 Tire Inflation Pressure: Check at
least every two weeks. For
details see page 79.
3 Fluid Level in Automatic Trans­
mission: See page 75.
4 Coolant Level: See page 73.
5 Windshield Washer System:
See page 101.
6 Engine Oil Level: See page 74.
7 Brake Fluid: See pages 101 and
102 .
Battery: Add distilled or tap water
only, see page 84.
Vehicle Lighting: Check function
and cleanliness. For replacement of
light bulbs, see pages 80, 81 and
82.

112
What You Should Know at the Gas Station

• Fuel: Use premium unleaded gasoline: • Coolant: For normal replenishment, use water
Posted Octane 91 (Average of 96 RON/86 MON). (potable water quality).
Fuel tank capacity approx. 85 I (22.5 US gal), For further information (e.g. anticorrosion/
this includes approx. 11.5 I (3.0 US gal) reserve. antifreeze), refer to page 103.
Only fill fuel tank until the filler nozzle unit • Bulbs: High and low beams: Halogen type No. 1
cuts out - do not overfill. and 2, fog lamps H3, turn signal, parking and
standing lamps, front 21/5 W/32/3 cp, turn signal
• Engine Oil: Engine oil level check, see page 74.
lamps, rear 21 W/32 cp, tail and standing lamps,
Quantity differential between upper and lower rear 10 W, stop lamps 21 W/32 cp, license plate
dipstick marking level: 2.0 I (2.1 US qt). lamps 5 W.
Year-round multigrade oils 10 W -40,10 W-50,
15 W-40, 15 W-50. • Spark Plugs: Bosch W 9 DC, W 9 DCO, W 9 DP,
Beru 14-9 DU, 14-9 DPU,
For further information, refer to page 100. Champion N 12 YC, N 12 YCC.
Electrode gap: 0.8 mm (0.032 in).
• Automatic Transmission: MB Automatic transmis­
sion fluid.
For level checks and replenishment, refer to
page 75.

• Tire Pressure: Cold tires: bar psi Warm tires:

For driving up to f_ 2 -12.5 3 6 1 Pressure may rise by up to
180 km/h (110 mph). k I I^ + 0.5 bar (+7 psi).
* j L —J 1
bar T r psi b a n J r psi Never release any air from a warm tire
to offset pressure increase!
Summer tires: 2.01 29' 2.4' 35'
1 For driving above 180 km/h (110 mph)
where permitted, add 0.4 bar (6 psi).
Winter tires: 2.2 32 2.5 36
DAIMLER-BENZ AG
Stuttgart-Untertuerkheim
Zentralkundendienst

107 584 31 97