Automatic Climate Control

The system is always at operational readiness, except when manually switched off.

The automatic climate control only operates with the engine running.

The temperature selector should be left at the desired temperature setting. The temperature selected is reached as quickly as possible.

The system will not heat or cool any quicker by setting a higher or lower temperature.

1. Air volume control for left air outlet, turn left to open

2. Air volume control for center air outlets, turn left to open

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

4. Center air outlets, adjustable

5. Side air outlet, left and right, adjustable

Push-buttons for center air outlets

6. Heated air supply

7. Non-heated/cooled air supply

Basic mode:

None of the push-buttons

(6 or 7) is pressed.

8. Display and Controls

22

Display and Controls

Press to activate, indicator lamp is on while activated.

Automatic mode

Raise temperature

Lower temperature

Defrost

Basic Setting - Automatic Mode

Press for automatic mode.

Simultaneously press both and for temperature setting of 72°F.

Air recirculation

Rear window defroster

Air is directed to foot area and doors

Economy mode

Air volume, manual

Residual engine heat utilization

Air volume and distribution are controlled automatically.

This setting can be used all year around.

Economy

The function of this setting corresponds to the automatic mode. However, because the air conditioning compressor will not engage (fuel savings), it is not possible to air condition in this setting.

Press button to activate.

Press button once again to return to previous setting.

23

Special Settings

(use only for snort duration)

Defogging Windows

Switch off

Press

Press button, button.

button repeatedly until air directly upwards.

Turn wheels (1 and 3) left to open left and right air outlets (5).

Defrosting

Turn wheels (1 and 3) left to open left and right air outlets (5).

Press button. Maximum heated and automatically controlled amount of air is directed to the windshield and side windows.

Press button once again to return to previous setting.

Rear Window Defroster

Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

To select, press

To cancel, press button.

button again.

Note:

Heavy accumulation of snow and ice should be removed before activating the defroster.

The rear window defroster uses a large amount of power. To keep the battery drain to a minimum, turn off the defroster as soon as the window is clear.

The defroster is automatically turned off after a maximum of 12 minutes of operation.

If several power consumers are turned on simultaneously, or the battery is only partially charged, it is possible that the defroster will automatically turn itself off. When this happens, the indicator lamp inside the switch starts blinking.

As soon as the battery has sufficient voltage, the defroster automatically turns itself back on.

Air Distribution

Press button repeatedly until the requested symbol is displayed

Air Volume

Press - or + side of rocker switch until the requested blower speed is attained, A choice of 7 blower speeds is available,

To switch the automatic climate control off press -side of rocker switch until symbol OFF is displayed.

The fresh air supply to the car interior is shut off.

While driving, use this setting only temporarily, otherwise the windshield could fog up.

To switch the automatic climate control on again, press

, or +side of ,

,

24

Air Recirculation

This mode can be selected to temporarily reduce the entry of annoying odors or dust into the vehicle's interior.

Outside air is not supplied to the car's interior.

To select, press

To cancel, press

The system will automatically switch from recirculated air to fresh air button.

button again.

• after approx. 5 minutes at outside temperatures below approx. 40°F (6°C),

• after approx. 20 minutes, at outside temperatures above approx. 40°F (5°C),

• after approx. 5 minutes, if button is pressed.

If the windows should fog up from the inside, switch from recirculated air back to fresh air,

At high outside temperatures, the system automatically engages the recirculated air mode thereby increasing the cooling capacity performance, switching to partially fresh air within 20 minutes.

Residual Engine Heat Utilization

With the engine switched off, it is possible to continue heating the interior for a short while.

Air volume and distribution are controlled automatically.

To select:

Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 0 or remove key. Close air outlet in rear passenger compartment.

Press button.

This function selection will not activate if the battery charge level is insufficient.

To cancel: Press button.

The system will automatically shut off

• if you turn key in steering lock to position 2,

• after approx. 30 minutes,

• if the battery voltage drops.

Dust Filter

Nearly all dust particles and pollen are filtered out before outside air enters the passenger compartment through the air distribution system.

Notes:

Do not obstruct the air flow by placing objects on the air flowthrough exhaust slots below the rear window.

Also keep the air intake grille in front of windshield free of snow and debris.

Important!

This vehicle is equipped with an air conditioner system that uses

R-134a (HFC: hydrofluorocarbon) as a refrigerant. Repairs should always be performed by a qualified technician, and refrigerant should be collected in a recovery system for recycling.

25

Car Keys

Included with your vehicle are

• 2 Master keys with infrared

• remote control

• 1 Master key

1 Valet key

1 Flat key

Remote Control with

Folding Master Key

The master key fits all locks on the car.

To release the key, press button (1).

The key unfolds from the holder by itself.

The transmitter for the infrared remote control is located in the key holder, the receivers are located in the door handless, and next to the trunk lock.

The valet key works only in the driver's door |lock and the steering lock.

The valet key will not work in the trunk and storage compartment locks.

The flat key fits all locks on the car.

Notes:

Do not give the master key to an unauthorized person.

We recommend that you carry the fiat key with you and keep it in a safe place

(e.g. your wallet) so that it is always handy. Never leave the flat key in the vehicle.

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle always remove the key from the steering lock, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

Obtaining Replacement Keys

Your vehicle is equipped with a theft deterrent locking system requiring a special key manufacturing process. For security reasons, replacement keys can only be obtained from your authorized

Mercedes-Benz dealer.

26

Start Lock-Out

Important!

Removing the key from the steering lock activates the start lock-out. The engine cannot be started.

Turning the key in the steering lock to position 2 deactivates the start lock-out.

Note:

In case the engine cannot be started, and the message "START-ERROR" shows in the odometer display field, the system is not operational. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer or call 1-800-FOR-MERCedes.

Central Locking System

Radio Frequency and Infrared

Remote Control

The master key has an integrated radio frequency and infrared remote control.

Due to the extended operational range of the remote control, it could be possible to unintentionally lock or unlock the vehicle by pressing the transmit button.

The vehicle doors, trunk and fuel filler flap can be centrally locked and unlocked.

Opening and closing the windows can only be done with the infrared portion of the remote control. Aim transmitter eye (4) at a receiver (5 or 6) and press transmit button.

With vehicle centrally locked, the trunk can also be opened by using the remote control.

If the key is inserted in steering lock, the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked with the remote control.

1. Transmit button

Locking

Unlocking

Opening trunk (if not key locked)

2. PANIC button

3. Key release button

4. Transmitter eye and lamp for battery check

27

5. Infrared receiver in driver's door handle

6. infrared receiver in passenger door handle

Locking and Unlocking

Unlocking:

Press transmit button the vehicle is unlocked.

. All turn signal lamps blink once to indicate that

The remote control can be programmed for two kinds of unlocking methods

(see below):

Selective unlocking mode -

Press transmit button once to unlock driver's door and fuel filler flap.

Press transmit button twice to unlock doors, fuel filler flap, and trunk.

Global unlocking mode -

Press transmit button once to unlock doors, fuel filler flap, and trunk.

Notes:

If the trunk was previously locked separately, it will remain locked

(see Index).

The presently active unlocking mode

(selective or global) can only be determined by unlocking the vehicle with the remote control (see below for changing mode).

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The vehicle is automatically locked again, if within 40 seconds of unlocking with the remote control, neither door or trunk is opened, the key is not inserted in the steering lock, or the central locking switch is not activated.

Locking:

Press transmit button once. All turn signal lamps blink three times to indicate that the vehicle is locked.

Notes:

If the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked by pressing the transmit button, then it may be necessary to change the batteries in the transmitter

(if ok, battery check lamp in transmitter will light briefly when transmitting) or to synchronize the system, see Remote

Control in Index.

For operation in the USA only: This devise complies with Part 15 of the

FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and

(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Choosing Global or Selective Mode on

Remote Control

Press and hold transmit buttons and simultaneously for five seconds to reprogram the remote control. Battery check lamp will blink two times indicating the completed mode change.

Opening the Trunk

Press transmit button released.

Important!

until trunk lid is

Do not place remote control in trunk since trunk is locked again when closing the lid.

Note:

If the trunk was previously locked separately, it will remain locked

(see Index).

29

Opening and Closing Windows from

Outside

Aim transmitter eye (4) of remote control at door receivers (5 or 6).

To open:

Continue to press transmit button after unlocking car,

The windows begin to open after approx, 1 second.

To interrupt opening procedure, release button.

To close:

Continue to press transmit button after locking car.

The windows begin to close after approx. 1 second.

To interrupt closing procedure, release button.

Warning!

Never operate the windows if there is the possibility of anyone being harmed by the opening or closing procedure.

In case the procedure causes potential danger, the procedure can be immediately halted by releasing the remote control button. To reverse direction of movement press for opening or for closing.

Note:

If the windows cannot be operated automatically by pressing the transmit button of the remote control then it may be necessary to change the batteries in the transmitter (if ok, battery check lamp in transmitter will light briefly when transmitting), or to synchronize the system, see Remote

Control, in Index.

Panic Button

To activate press and hold button (1) for at least one second. The alarm will last for approximately 3 minutes in form of blinking exterior lamps, and an additional horn will sound intermittently.

To deactivate press button (1) again, or turn key in steering lock to position 2.

30

Doors

The entire vehicle may be locked or unlocked by using either the master key in driver's door or trunk lock, or central locking switch located in center console. The central locking system also locks or unlocks the fuel filler flap.

Note:

If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, refer to Fuel Filler Flap, Manual

Release (see Index).

1. Opening - pull handle

2. Unlocking

3. Locking

4. Individual door from inside:

• Push lock button down to lock.

• Pull lock button up to unlock.

When you lock the car, both door lock buttons should move down. If any one stays up, the respective door is not properly closed.

You should then unlock the car, open and reclose this door, and lock the car again. Each individual door can be locked with door lock button - the driver's door can only be locked when it is closed.

If the car has previously been locked from the outside, only the door being opened from the inside will unlock, and the alarm will come on. The other door, the trunk lid and fuel filler flap remain locked.

Note:

In case of a malfunction in the central locking system the doors can be locked and unlocked individually.

31

Central locking switch

1.

Locking

2.

Unlocking

The central locking switch is located on the center console.

The doors and trunk can only be locked with the central locking switch, if both doors are closed.

If the car was previously locked with the remote control or key, the doors and trunk cannot be unlocked with the central locking switch.

If the car was previously locked with the central locking switch, while in the selective remote control mode, only the door opened from the inside is unlocked.

If the car was previously locked with the central locking switch, while in the global remote control mode, the complete vehicle is unlocked when a door is opened from the inside.

Automatic Central Locking

The central locking switch also operates the automatic central locking.

To activate:

With key in steering lock position 2 hold upper portion of switch (1) for a minimum of 5 seconds.

To deactivate:

With key in steering lock position 2 hold lower portion of switch (2) for a minimum of 5 seconds.

With the automatic central locking system activated, the doors and trunk are locked at vehicle speeds of approx.

9 mph (15 km/h) or more. The fuel filler flap remains unlocked.

Notes:

If doors are unlocked with the central locking switch after activating the automatic central locking, and neither door is opened, then the doors remain unlocked even at vehicle speeds of approx. 9 mph (15 km/h) or more.

Opening a door from the inside at speeds of approx. 9 mph (15 km/h) or less with the automatic central locking activated, the door will again be automatically locked at speeds of approx. 9 mph (15 km/h) or more.

Emergency Unlocking in Case of

Accident

The doors unlock automatically a short time after an accident (this is Intended to aid rescue and exit). However, the key must still be in steering lock position 2.

32

Trunk

0. Neutral posit/on - push to open

1. Unlocking

2. Locking (detent)

3. Separate locking of trunk remove key in this position.

When the trunk is separately locked, it remains locked when unlocking any door.

To deny any unauthorized person access to the trunk, lock it separately.

Leave only the valet key with the vehicle.

Notes:

In case of a malfunction in the central locking system the trunk can be locked and unlocked individually.

If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, refer to Fuel Filler Flap, Manual

Release (see Index).

33

Power Windows

1.

Closing

2.

Interrupting

3.

Opening

When locking doors or trunk, turn key in door lock or trunk lock to position 3 and hold. The windows begin to close automatically after approximately 1 second.

To interrupt the closing procedure, turn key to position 2.

When unlocking doors or trunk, turn key in door lock or trunk lock to position 1 and hold. The windows begin to open automatically after approximately 1 second.

To interrupt the opening procedure, turn key to position 2.

Warning!

Never operate the windows if there is the possibility of anyone being harmed by the procedure.

In case the procedure causes potential danger, the procedure can be immediately reversed by turning the key to the reversed operational direction within 10 seconds:

• for opening position (1)

• for closing position (3).

Note:

If the opening/closing procedure is interrupted, it can only be continued by first turning the key to the interrupting position (2) and then again to the opening/ closing position

(1 or 3) and hold.

34

Interior Central Locking System

1. Initial position (integrated with vehicle central locking system)

2. Separate locking of storage compartments

3. Emergency operation

The following storage compartments are part of the interior central locking system:

• eyeglasses compartment in the dashboard,

• console storage compartments,

• rear storage compartments.

Integration with Vehicle Central

Locking System

When locking or unlocking the vehicle from the outside by using the master key, the interior storage compartments and door pockets are also locked or unlocked (with lock in position 1).

Separate Locking of Storage

Compartments

Locking:

Turn master key to position 2 and remove from lock. The storage compartments remain locked -even if the vehicle is unlocked from the outside.

Unlocking:

Turn master key to position 1 and remove from lock.

If the vehicle was locked from the outside, the storage compartments remain in the locked mode until the vehicle is unlocked again from the outside.

Note:

If the interior storage compartments are to remain locked (for example while in a repair shop), leave only the valet key with the vehicle.

When unlocking a door from the inside, on a vehicle previously locked from the outside, the storage compartments still remain locked.

In case of a malfunction the eye glasses compartment can still be opened. To do so, turn the master key to position 3, return it to position 1, remove it from the lock and press button .

35

1. Indicator lamp in center console

Anti Theft Alarm System

The anti-theft alarm can be armed/disarmed with any of your vehicle's keys or infrared remote control by locking/unlocking either door or the trunk.

A blinking lamp (1) indicates that the alarm is armed.

The antitheft alarm is disarmed when unlocking the driver door or the trunk with any of your vehicle's keys or infrared remote control.

Operation:

Once the alarm system has been armed, the exterior vehicle lamps will flash and the horn will sound intermittently when someone:

• opens a door,

• opens the trunk,

• opens the hood,

• removes the radio,

• switches on or bridges the ignition circuit,

• steps on the brake pedal,

• opens the storage compartment between the front seats.

The alarm will last approximately 2 1 /

2 minutes in the form of blinking exterior lamps. At the same time an additional horn will sound intermittently for 60 seconds, pause for 30 seconds, and repeat for another 60 seconds. The alarm will stay on even if the activating element (a door, for example) is immediately closed.

Note:

We recommend that you carry the flat key with you and keep it in a safe place

(e.g. your wallet) so that it is always handy. The flat key has the same functions as the master key.

36

Power Seats

The switches are located in each front door.

Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2 (with either door open, the power seats can also be operated with the key removed or in steering lock position 0).

Adjusting

A.

Seat cushion

B.

Backrest

C.

Head restraint

(with shoulder belt height adjustment)

Adjust the head restraint so that the upper portion of the shoulder belt is located as close as possible to the middle of the shoulder. The head restraint can be tilted forward by hand.

Note:

To prevent the backrest from touching the soft top storage compartment cover when the seat cushion is moved back, the backrest will automatically move to a more upright position.

When reclining the backrest, the seat cushion will automatically move forward to prevent the backrest from touching the soft top storage compartment cover.

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle always remove the key from the steering lock.

The power seats can also be operated with the driver's or passenger door open. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle.

Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

Do not adjust the driver's seat while driving. Adjusting the seat while driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat back reclined. Sitting in an excessively reclined position can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries.

The seat back and seat belts provide the best restraint when the wearer is in an upright position and belts are properly positioned on the body.

The rear storage area should never be occupied by passengers since the vehicle is a 2 seater. Furthermore, there is a risk of injury in the rear by adjusting the power assisted front seats.

Never place hands under seat or near any moving parts while a seat is being adjusted.

37

Using the same position button, the steering column position and rear view

A Seat cushion

B Backrest

C Head restraint

(with shoulder belt height

Storing Position in Memory

D Memory button

E Position buttons "1", "2" and "3"

After the seat and head restraint are positioned, push memory button D, release, and within 3 seconds push position button "1". Two additional sets of positions may be stored into memory using position buttons "2" and "3".

Adjust the head restraint so that the upper portion of the shoulder belt is located as close as possible to the middle of the shoulder. The head restraint can be tilted forward by hand.

Note: restraint/steering wheel/mirror movement stops after releasing the position button.

when the seat cushion is moved back, the backrest will automatically move to a more upright position. When reclining the backrest, the seat cushion will automatically move forward to prevent the backrest from touching the soft top storage compartment cover.

Important!

Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat back reclined. Sitting in an excessively reclined position can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision, if you slide adequate control, reach, operation, and under it, the belt would apply force be adjusted for proper height. Adjust head restraint to support the back of the wearer, as they are only then properly located on the body.

The rear storage area should never rearward vision.

Fasten seat belts. Infants and small children should be seated in a properly secured restraint system that complies power assisted front

Safety Standard 213 and Canadian

Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213.1.

All seat, head restraint, and rear view mirror adjustments as well as fastening of seat belts should be done before the vehicle is put into motion.

38

Warning!

Children 12 years old and under must never ride in this vehicle, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmart™ compatible child seat, which operates with the

BabySmart™ system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result.

Infants and small children must be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle's seat belt, fully in accordance with the seat manufacturer's Instructions.

A child's risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

Backrest

Folding forward:

Lift lever and fold forwards.

Folding back:

Fold backrest back until it audibly locks in place.

Warning!

The seat belts provide protection only with the backrest locked in place and, therefore, must be locked in place with the vehicle in motion.

Do not drive the car when the seatback is not locked in place.

Note:

If the backrest and seat belt warning lamp does not go out, but is instead lit continuously, then a backrest is not engaged in its lock.

Always provide sufficient room behind the backrest and fold the backrest all the way back until it can be heard locking in place.

The warning lamp goes out as soon as both backrests are locked in place.

If both backrests are locked in place and the warning lamp does not go out, have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer immediately.

39

Switch is located on side of seat.

Multicontour Seat (optional)

1. Seat cushion depth

2. Backrest bottom

3. Backrest center

4. Side bolster adjustment

Some models may be equipped with multicontour seats. These seats have movable seat cushions, and inflatable air cushions built into the backrest to provide additional lumbar and side support.

The seat cushion movement and amount of backrest cushion height and curvature can be continuously varied with regulators (1,2 and 3) after turning the key in steering lock to position 2.

The side bolsters of the backrest can be adjusted with rocker switch (4):

• press down forward end increase side support,

• press down rearward end decrease side support.

If the engine is turned off, the last cushion setting is retained in memory, and automatically adjusts the cushion to this setting when the engine is restarted.

40

Heated Seats (SL 500 optional)

The seat heaters can be switched on with the key in steering lock turned to position 1 or 2.

Press switch to turn on heater:

1. Normal heating mode. One indicator lamp in the switch lights up.

2. Rapid heating mode. Both indicator lamps in the switch light up.

After approximately 5 minutes in the rapid heating mode, the heater automatically switches to normal operation and only one indicator lamp will stay on.

Turning off heater:

If one indicator lamp is on, press upper half of switch.

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

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

Note:

When in operation, the seat heater consumes a large amount of power. It is advisable not to use the seat heater longer than necessary.

The seat heaters may automatically switch off if too many power consumers are switched on at the same time, or if the battery charge is low.

When this occurs, the indicator lamp in the switch will blink (both indicator lamps blink during rapid seat heating).

The seat heaters will switch on again automatically as soon as sufficient voltage is available.

If the blinking of the indicator lamps is distracting to you, the seat heaters can be switched off.

41

Armrest

To adjust: Press button (1) and slide armrest forward or backward.

Adjusting Steering Column

Turn key in steering lock to position

1 or 2 (with either door open, the steering column can be operated with the key removed or in steering lock position 0).

To extend or retract: Move switch (1) in desired direction.

To raise or lower: Move switch (1) in desired direction.

Storing Steering Column

Position in Memory

The steering column position is stored in memory together with the seat/head restraint/mirror position and can be recalled when necessary, see Index.

Warning!

Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. Adjusting the steering wheel while driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

42

Seat Belts and Supplemental

Restraint System (SRS)

Your vehicle is equipped with lapshoulder seat belts, emergency tensioning retractors for the seat belts, driver airbag and knee bolster and passenger airbag and knee bolster.

Seat Belts

Important!

Laws in most states and all Canadian provinces require seat belt use.

All states and provinces require use of child restraints that comply with U.S.

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard

213 and Canadian Motor Vehicle

Safety Standard 213.1. We strongly recommend their use.

For your safety and that of your passenger we strongly recommend their use.

Note:

For cleaning and care of the seat belts, see

Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle in

Index.

Warning!

The seat belts provide protection only with the backrest locked in place. If the seat belt warning lamp does not go out, but is instead lit continuously, then a backrest is not engaged in its lock.

Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat back reclined. Sitting in an excessively reclined position can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries.

The seat back and seat belts provide the best restraint when the wearer is in an upright position and belts are properly positioned on the body.

Seat Belt Warning System

With the key in steering lock position 2, an audible warning sounds for a short time if the driver's seat belt is not fastened.

Warning!

Failure to wear and properly fasten and position your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident.

You and your passengers should always wear seat belts.

If you are ever in an accident, your injuries can be considerably more severe without your seat belt properly buckled. Without your seat belt buckled, you can hit the interior of the vehicle or be ejected from it.

You can be seriously injured or killed.

In the same crash, the possibility for injury or death is lessened with your seat belt buckled.

43

Warning!

Children 12 years old and under must never ride In this vehicle, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmart™ compatible child seat, which operates with the

BabySmart™ system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when It is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when It inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result.

Infants and small children must be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle's seat belt, fully in accordance with the seat manufacturer's instructions.

A child's risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased if the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

Fastening of Seat Belts

1. Latch plate

2. Buckle

3. Release button

4. Switch for belt outlet height adjustment

Pull belt with latch plate (1) across shoulder and lap. Push latch plate (1) into buckle (2) until it clicks. The lap belt should be positioned as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdomen. Do not twist the belt. A twisted seat belt may cause injury.

Press switch (4) to adjust the height of the seat belt outlet so that the shoulder portion is located as close as possible to the middle of your shoulder.

The shoulder portion of the seat belt must be pulled snug and checked for snugness immediately after engaging it and during driving. Tighten the lap portion to a snug fit by pulling shoulder portion up.

Caution!

For safety reasons, avoid adjusting the seat or seat back into positions which could affect the correct seat belt position.

44

Unfastening of Seat Belts

Push in the red button (3) in the belt buckle (2).

Allow the retractor to completely rewind the seat belt by guiding the latch plate (1).

Operation:

The inertia reel stops the belt from unwinding during sudden vehicle stops or when quickly pulling on the belt.

The locking function of the reel may be checked by quickly pulling on the belt.

Warning!

USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY.

• Each occupant should wear their seat belt at all times, because seat belts help reduce the likelihood of and potential severity of injuries in accidents, including roll-overs. "SRS" driver airbag, passenger airbag), "ETR" (seat belt emergency tensioning retractors), and knee bolsters are designed to enhance the protection offered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds.

• Improperly positioned seat belts do not provide maximum protection and may cause serious injuries in case of an accident.

• Never wear the shoulder belt under your arm, against your neck or off your shoulder. In a crash, your body would move too far forward. That would increase the chance of head and neck injuries, the belt would also apply too much force to the ribs or abdomen, which could severely injure internal organs such as your liver or spleen.

• Position the lap belt as low as possible on your hips and not across the abdomen. If the belt is positioned across your abdomen, it could cause serious injuries in crash.

• Each seat belt should never be used for more than one person at a time. Do not fasten a seat belt around a person and objects.

• Belts should not be worn twisted.

In a crash, you wouldn't have the full width of the belt to manage impact forces. The twisted belt against your body could cause injuries.

• Pregnant women should also use a lap-shoulder belt. The lap belt portion should be positioned as low as possible on the hips to avoid any possible pressure on the abdomen.

45

Warning!

USE CHILD RESTRAINTS

PROPERLY.

Children 12 years old and under must never ride in this vehicle, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmart™ compatible child seat, which operates with the

Baby Smart™ system Installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result.

Infants and small children must be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle's seat belt, fully in accordance with the seat manufacturer's instructions.

A child's risk of serious or fatal injuries is significantly increased If the child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle and the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.

Adjust the passenger seat rearward as far as possible from the dashboard when the seat is occupied.

BabySmart™ Airbag

Deactivation System

Deactivation

Special child seats, designed for use with the Mercedes-Benz system and available at any authorized Mercedes-

Benz dealer are required for use with the BabySmart™ airbag deactivation system.

With the special child seat properly installed, the passenger front airbag will not deploy. The indicator lamp located in the dashboard will be illuminated, except with key removed or in steering lock position 0. The system does not deactivate the door mounted side impact airbag.

BabySmart TM is la trademark of Siemens

Automotive Corp.

Warning!

The BabySmart™ Airbag

Deactivation System will ONLY work with a special seat designed to operate with it. it will not work with seats which are not BabySmart™ compatible.

Never place anything between seat cushion and child seat (e.g. pillow), since it reduces the effectiveness of the deactivation system.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation of special child seats. The passenger side front airbag will not deploy only if the indicator lamp remains illuminated.

Please be sure to check the indicator every time you use the special system child seat, Should the light go out while the restraint is installed, please check installation. If the light remains out, do not use the BabySmart™ restraint to transport children, or otherwise - do not transport child restraints on the passenger seat until the system has been repaired.

46

Self-Test BabySmart™

Without Special Child Seat

Installed

After turning key in steering lock to position 1 or 2, the approx. 6 seconds.

indicator lamp located in the dashboard comes on for

If the lamp should not come on or is continuously lit, the system is not functioning. You must see an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer before using any child seat.

BabySmart TM is la trademark of

Siemens Automotive Corp

Supplemental Restraint System

(SRS)

Supplemental Restraint System means that airbags alone cannot protect as well as airbags plus seat belts.

The SRS uses two crash severity levels

(thresholds) to activate either the ETR or airbag or both. Activation depends on exceeding the thresholds and fastening of the seat belt.

Seat belt fastened

• first threshold exceeded:

ETR activates

• second threshold exceeded: airbag also activates

Seat belt not fastened

• first threshold exceeded: airbag activates, but not ETR

Driver and front passenger systems operate independently from each other.

Emergency Tensioning

Retractor (ETR)

The seat belts are equipped with emergency tensioning retractors.

These tensioning retractors are located in each belt's inertia reel and become operationally ready with the key in steering lock position 1 or 2.

The emergency tensioning retractors are designed to activate only when the seat belts are fastened during major frontal impacts within the shaded area shown. They tighten the belts in such a way that they fit more snugly against the body, restricting its forward movement as much as possible.

In cases of other frontal impacts, rollovers, certain side impacts, rear collisions, or other accidents without frontal forces, the emergency tensioning retractors will not be activated. The driver and passenger will then be protected by the fastened seat belts and inertia reel in the usual manner.

For seat belt and emergency tensioning retractor safety guidelines, see Safety

Guidelines in Index.

47

Airbags

1. Driver airbag

2. Front passenger airbag

3. Side impact airbag

The most effective occupant restraint system yet developed for use in production vehicles is the seat belt. In some cases, however, the protective effect of a seat belt can be further enhanced by an airbag.

The driver airbag is located in the steering wheel hub. The passenger airbag is located in the dashboard ahead of the passenger.

The side impact airbags are located in the doors. In conjunction with wearing the seat belts with emergency tensioning retractors, the airbags can provide increased protection for the driver and passenger in certain major frontal (for front airbags), and side impacts (for side impact airbags).

The operational readiness of the airbag system is verified by the indicator lamp "SRS" 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 continues to monitor the components and circuitry of the airbag system and will indicate a malfunction by corning on again.

The following system components are monitored or undergo a self-check: crash-sensor (s), airbag ignition circuits, seat belt buckles, emergency tensioning retractors, seat sensor (when present).

Initially, when the key is turned from steering lock position 0 to positions 1 or 2, malfunctions in the crash-sensor are detected and indicated (the "SRS" indicator lamp stays on longer than 4 seconds).

In the operational mode, after the indicator lamp has gone out following the initial check, interruptions and short circuits in the

48

airbag ignition circuit and in the driver and passenger seat belt buckle harnesses, and low voltage in the entire system are detected and indicated.

Warning!

In the event a malfunction of the

"SRS" is indicated as outlined above, the "SRS" may not be operational.

For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized

Mercedes-Benz dealer immediately to have the system checked; otherwise the "SRS" may not be activated when needed in an accident, which could result in serious or fatal injury, or it might deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily which could also result in injury.

Front Airbags

The driver and passenger front "SRS" airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal and front-angled impacts.

The passenger front airbag deploys only if the passenger seat is occupied.

Note;

Heavy objects on passenger seat can cause the front airbag to deploy in a crash.

Side Impact Airbags

The side impact "SRS" airbags are designed to activate only in certain side impacts. Only the side airbag of the impacted side of the vehicle deploys.

The passenger side impact airbag deploys only if the seat is occupied.

Side impact airbags operate best in conjunction with a properly positioned and fastened seat belt.

Note:

Heavy objects on passenger seat can cause the side impact airbag to deploy in a crash.

Important!

The "SRS" airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal or rear (front airbags) impacts, or side

(side airbags) impacts.

Only during these types of impacts, if of sufficient severity to meet the deployment thresholds, will they provide their supplemental protection.

The driver and passenger should always wear the seat belts, otherwise it is not possible for the airbags to provide their intended supplemental protection.

In cases of other frontal impacts, angled impacts, roll-overs, other side impacts, rear collisions, or other accidents without sufficient forces, the airbag will not be activated. The driver and passenger will then be protected by the fastened seat belts.

We caution you not to rely on the presence of an airbag In order to avoid wearing your seat belt

The "SRS" is designed to reduce the potential of injury in certain frontal and rear (front airbags) impacts, and side (side airbags) impacts which may cause significant Injuries, however, no system available today can totally eliminate injuries and fatalities.

49

The activation of the "SRS" temporarily releases a small amount of dust from the airbags.

This dust, however, is neither injurious to your health, nor does it indicate a fire in the vehicle.

The service life of the airbags extends to the date indicated on the label located on the driver-side door latch post. To provide continued reliability after that date, they should be inspected by an authorized

Mercedes-Benz dealer at that time and replaced when necessary.

Warning!

It is very important for your safety to always be In a properly seated position and to wear your seat belt.

For maximum protection in the event of a collision always be in normal seated position with your back against the seat back. Fasten your seat belt and ensure that it is properly positioned on the body.

For unobstructive inflation of side airbags, keep door pocket lids closed.

Since the airbag inflates with considerable speed and force, a proper seating and hands on steering wheel position will help to keep you in a safe distance from the airbag:

• Sit properly belted in an upright position with your back against the seat back.

• Adjust the driver seat as far as possible rearward, still permitting proper operation of vehicle controls.

• Do not lean with your head or chest close to the steering wheel or dashboard.

• Keep hands on the outside of steering wheel rim.

Placing hands and arms inside the rim can increase the risk and potential severity of hand/arm injury when airbag inflates.

• Adjust the passenger seat as far as possible rearward from the dashboard when the seat is occupied.

• Children 12 years old and under must never ride in this vehicle, except in a

Mercedes-Benz authorized

BabySmart™ compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmart™ system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when it Is properly installed.

Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in severe injuries to you or other occupants.

50

Safety Guidelines for the Seat Belt,

Emergency Tensioning Retractor and Airbag

Warning!

• Damaged belts or belts that were highly stressed in an accident must be replaced and their anchoring points must also be checked. Use only belts installed or supplied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

• Do not pass belts over sharp edges.

• Do not make any modification that could change the effectiveness of the belts.

• The "SRS" is designed to function on a one-time-only basis. An airbag or emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) that was activated must be replaced.

• No modifications of any kind may be made to any components or wiring of the "SRS". This includes the installation of additional trim material, badges etc. over the steering wheel hub or front passenger airbag cover and installation of additional electrical/electronic equipment on or near "SRS" components and wiring.

• Several airbag system components at the steering wheel get hot after the air-bag has inflated.

Don't try to touch them.

• Improper work on the system, including incorrect installation and removal, can lead to possible injury through an uncontrolled activation of the "SRS".

• In addition, through improper work there is the risk of rendering the "SRS" inoperative. Work on the "SRS" must therefore only be performed by an authorized

Mercedes-Benz dealer.

• When scrapping the airbag unit or emergency tensioning retractor, it is mandatory to follow our safety instructions.

These instructions are available at your authorized Mercedes-

Benz dealer.

When you sell the vehicle we strongly urge you to give notice to the subsequent owner that it is equipped with an "SRS" by alerting him to the applicable section in the Owner's

Manual.

51

Infants and Child Restraint

Systems

We recommend that all infants and children be restrained at all times while the vehicle is in motion.

The passenger seat has a special seat belt retractor for secure fastening of a child restraint. To use, fasten child restraint with seat belt: Follow child restraint instructions for routing. Then pull shoulder belt out completely. Slide switch located on side of passenger seat to position . Let the belt retract. It is now locked. Push down on child restraint to take up any slack.

Important!

The use of infant or child restraints is required by law in all 50 states and all

Canadian provinces.

The use of infant or child restraints is required by law in all 50 states and all

Canadian provinces. Infants and small children should be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured by the lap-shoulder belt, and that complies with U.S. Federal Motor Safety

Standard 213 and Canadian Motor

Vehicle Safety Standard 213.1.

Please read and observe warning labels affixed to inside of the vehicle.

A statement by the child restraint manufacturer of compliance with this standard can be found on the instruction label on the restraint and In the instruction manual provided with the restraint.

When using any infant or child restraint system, be sure to carefully read and follow all manufacturer's instructions for installation and use.

Warning!

Children 12 years old and under must never ride in this vehicle, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmart™ compatible child seat, which operates with the

Baby Smart™ system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger side front airbag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the airbag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result.

Infants and small children must be seated in an appropriate infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle's seat belt, fully in accordance with the seat manufacturer's instructions.

Infants and small children should never share a seat belt with another occupant. During an accident, they could be crushed between the occupant and seat belt.

Children too big for child restraint systems should use regular seat belts. Position the shoulder belt across chest and shoulder, not face or neck. A booster seat is necessary to achieve proper belt positioning for children from 41 lbs. to the point where a lap/shoulder belt fits properly without one.

When the child restraint is not in use, remove it from the car or secure it with the seat belt to prevent the child restraint from becoming a projectile in the event of an accident.

U.S.A. Models only

Since 1986 all U.S. child restraints comply with U.S. regulations without the use of a tether strap.

52

Steering Lock

0. The key can be withdrawn in this position only. The steering is locked with the key removed from the steering lock. The key can be removed only with the selector lever in position "P". After removing the key or with the key in steering lock position 0, the selector lever is locked in position

"P".

1. Steering is unlocked.

(If necessary, move steering wheel slightly to allow the key to be turned clockwise to position 1.)

Most electrical consumers can be operated. For detailed information see respective subjects.

2. Driving position.

3. Starting position.

Refer to Index for Starting and turning off engine.

Warning!

When leaving the vehicle always remove the key from the steering lock. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle.

Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

Notes:

A warning will sound when the driver's door is opened with the key in steering lock positions 1 or 0.

With the engine at idle speed, the charging rate of the alternator

(output) is limited.

It is therefore recommended to turn off unnecessary electrical consumers while driving in stop-and-go traffic.

This precaution helps to avoid draining of the battery.

Unnecessary drain on the battery and charging system may be minimized by turning off the following power consumers, for example: heated seats, rear window defroster. In addition, the automatic climate control blower speed should be set to stage "1".

Caution!

To prevent accelerated battery discharge and a possible dead battery, always remove the key from the steering lock. Do not leave the key in steering lock position 0.

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Combination Switch

1. Low beam (exterior lamp switch position )

2. High beam (exterior lamp switch position )

3. High beam flasher (high beam available independent of exterior lamp switch position)

4. Turn signals, right

5. Turn signals, left

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

To operate the turn signals continuously, move the combination switch past the point of resistance (up or down). The switch is automatically canceled when the steering wheel is turned to a large enough degree.

6. Press switch briefly:

One wipe without washer water

(select only if window is wet)

Press switch past resistance point:

-

Windshield washer, windshield wiper; headlamp cleaning system only in exterior lamp switch positions or lamps).

(except xenon

Canada only: also in position when the engine is running)

7. Windshield wiper

Wiper off

I Intermittent wiping

II Normal wiper speed

III Fast wiper speed

Note:

The windshield washer reservoir, hoses and nozzles are automatically heated.

54

Windshield Washer Fluid Mixing

Ratio

For temperatures above freezing:

MB Windshield Washer Concentrate

"S" and water

1 part "S" to 100 parts water

(40 ml "S" to 1 gallon water).

For temperature below freezing:

MB Windshield Washer Concentrate

"S" and commercially available premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze

1 part "S" to 100 parts solvent

(40 ml "S" to 1 gallon solvent).

Windshield Wiper Smears

If the windshield wiper smears the windshield, even during rain, activate the washer system as often as necessary. The fluid in the washer reservoir should be mixed in the correct ratio.

Blocked Windshield Wiper

If the windshield wiper becomes blocked (for example, due to snow), switch off the wiper.

For safety reasons before removing ice or snow, remove key from steering lock. Remove blockage.

Activate combination switch again

(key in steering lock position 1).

Emergency Operation of

Windshield Wiper

In case of windshield wiper malfunction, turn combination switch to wiper setting II.

Have the system checked at your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon as possible.

Turn Signal Failure

If one of the turn signals fails, the turn signal indicator system flashes and sounds at a faster than normal rate.

55

Exterior Lamp Switch

Off

Parking lamps (also side marker lamps, taillamps, license plate lamps, instrument panel lamps)

Canada only: When the engine is running, the low beam is additionally switched on.

Parking lamps plus low beam or high beam headlamps

(combination switch pushed forward)

Standing lamps, right (turn left one stop)

Standing lamps, left

(turn left two stops)

Front fog lamps (pull out one stop) with parking and/or low beam headlamps on.

Rear fog lamp (pull out to

2nd detent) In addition to fog lamps. Yellow indicator lamp in lamp switch comes on.

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 cannot be operated with the key in steering lock position 2,

Note:

With the key removed and the driver's door open, a warning sounds if the vehicle's exterior lamps (except standing lamps) are not switched off.

Fog lamps will operate with the parking lamps and the low beam headlamps. Fog lamps should only be used in conjunction with low beam headlamps. Consult your state Motor

Vehicle Regulations regarding allowable lamp operation.

Fop lamps are automatically switched off when the exterior lamp switch is turned to position

Daytime Running Lamps

(Canada only)

When the engine is running and the selector lever is in a driving position, the low beam (includes parking lamps, side marker lamps, taillamps and license plate lamps) are automatically switched on.

When shifting from a driving position to position "N" or "P", the low beam switches off (2 seconds delay).

For nighttime driving the exterior lamp switch should be turned to position to permit activation of the high beam headlamps .

56

Night Security Illumination

When exiting the vehicle after driving with the exterior lamps on, the headlamps (fog lamps on vehicles with optional Xenon lamps) switch on for added security for approximately 30 seconds after closing the last door. The lamp-on time period can be changed at your Mercedes-Benz, dealer.

Inside Rear View Mirror

Manually adjust the mirror.

Use your inside mirror to determine the size and distance of objects seen in the passenger side convex mirror.

Antiglare Night Position

With the key in steering lock position

2, the mirror reflection brightness responds to changes in light sensitivity.

With gear selector lever in position

"R", or with the interior lamp switched on, the mirror brightness does not respond to changes in light sensitivity.

Note:

The automatic antiglare function is restricted, if incoming light is not aimed directly at sensors in the mirror.

57

Exterior Rear View Mirrors

The switch is located in the center console.

Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

First select the mirror to be adjusted turn switch:

1 Left mirror

2 Right mirror

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

With the key in steering lock position

2, the driver's side mirror reflection brightness responds to changes in light sensitivity.

With gear selector lever in position

"R", or with the interior lamp switched on, the mirror brightness does not respond to changes in light sensitivity.

Warning!

Exercise care when using the passenger-side mirror. The passenger-side exterior mirror Is convex (outwardly curved surface for a wider field of view). Objects in mirror arc closer than they appear.

Check your inside rear view mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.

Note:

The exterior mirrors have electrically heated glass. The heater switches on automatically, depending on outside temperature.

If the mirror housing is forcibly pivoted from its normal position, it must be repositioned by applying firm pressure until it snaps into place.

Storing Mirror Positions in

Memory

The exterior rear view mirror positions are stored in memory with the seat/head restraint/steering column position and can be recalled when necessary, see Index.

58

Ashtray in center console

Ashtray with Lighter

By touching the bottom of the cover lightly, the ashtray opens automatically.

Prior to removing the ashtray insert, move the gear selector lever to position

"N".

Warning!

Remove ashtray only with vehicle standing still. With the gear selector lever in position "N", turn off the engine and set the parking brake. Otherwise the vehicle might move as a result of unintended contact with the gear selector lever.

To remove ashtray:

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

To install ashtray:

Install insert into ashtray frame and push down to engage.

Lighter

1. Lighter

Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2.

Push in lighter (1); it will pop out automatically when hot.

Warning!

Never touch the heating element or sides of the lighter, they are extremly hot, hold at knob only.

59

Sun Visors

Swing sun visors down to protect against sun glare.

If sunlight enters through a side window, disengage visor from inner mounting and pivot to the side.

Illuminated Vanity Mirrors

With the visor engaged in its inner mounting, the lamp can be switched on by opening the cover.

Warning!

Do not use the vanity mirror while driving.

Interior Lighting

The switches are located above the inside rear view mirror.

Interior Lamps

1. Interior lamps are switched on, and off delayed, when unlocking or locking the vehicle, or when opening or closing either door,

However, there will be no delay when the key is in steering lock position 2.

2. Interior lamps switched off.

3. Interior lamps switched on continuously.

60

Reading Lamps

4. Left reading lamp switched on.

5. Reading lamps switched off.

6. Right reading lamp switched on.

Entrance Lamps in Footwells, Exit

Lamps in Doors

These lamps are switched on and off by the door contact switches.

Note:

To prevent the vehicle battery from being discharged, do not leave doors open for a long period of time.

Storage Compartment

(Eyeglasses Compartment) in the Dashboard

1. Storage compartment

(eyeglasses compartment)

2. Button for storage compartment

3. Lock

Opening compartment (1):

Press button (2).

Locking:

Turn master key in lock (3) to the right and remove.

Unlocking:

Turn master key back to vertical

Position.

Caution!

Keep compartment lids closed. This will prevent stored objects from being thrown about and injuring vehicle occupants during an accident.

Note:

The storage compartments may be locked and unlocked by using the master key in lock (3).

For interior central locking system see Index.

61

Console Storage Compartments and

Cup Holder

To open front compartment (cup holder): slide cover (1) back.

Opening cup holder: Press button (2). Opening rear compartment: Press button (3),

The compartments can be locked and unlocked with the central locking system.

Caution!

Keep cup holder closed while traveling.

Place only containers that fit into the cup holder to prevent spills.

Do not fill containers to a height where the contents could spill during vehicle maneuvers, especially hot liquids.

Door Pockets

To open: Lift cover.

Warning!

For unobstructive inflation of side airbags, keep door pocket lids closed.

Rear Storage Compartment

To open compartment: Press button (1) and lift cover.

Caution!

Keep compartment lids closed. This will prevent stored objects from being thrown about and injuring vehicle occupants during an accident.

62

Power Windows

Power window switches located on center console.

Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

Press switch in to resistance point: to close to open

Release switch when window is in desired position.

Warning!

When closing the windows, be sure that there is no danger of anyone being harmed by the closing procedure.

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key from the steering lock, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause serious personal injury.

Express Opening of Door

Windows

Press switch past resistance point and release - window lowers to fully open position. To interrupt procedure, briefly press or

Note:

The power windows can also be closed with the key or infrared remote control while locking the vehicle doors or trunk (see Central Locking System in

Index).

Important!

Do not close a door with the windows fully closed while the power supply is interrupted (battery disconnected or empty). Doing so could damage the window frame.

The power windows should first be resynchronized.

After a power interruption, first synchronize the windows to enable activation of the soft top,

Synchronizing Power Windows

When opening a door after the power supply was interrupted (battery disconnected or empty), the window will open slightly, indicating that the

Express feature should be resynchronized.

Press side of power window switch until the window is completely closed and hold for additional 2 seconds. Repeat procedure for each window.

The automatic full opening procedure of the windows should now be restored.

63

Trunk Lid Release Switch

The switch is located in the center console.

To release the trunk lid, the vehicle must be parked and unlocked. Press symbol side of switch until trunk lid is released.

The indicator lamp remains on with trunk lid released.

Notes:

With vehicle centrally locked, the trunk can also be opened by using the remote control. Press button.

The trunk lid cannot be released by the switch when previously locked separately with the key. To open, refer to Trunk, separately looked (in Index).

Sunshade(optional)

To close:

Slide handle of sunshade along

Panorama roof and engage in lock.

To open:

Disengage handle from lock, and guide sunshade until fully retracted. Do not let the sunshade snap back.

Warning!

Do not operate the sunshade while driving. Adjusting the sunshade while driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

64

Roll Bar

The switch is located in the center console.

Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

Press switch

Upper half = to raise

Lower half = to lower

The lowering or raising procedure is immediately interrupted by releasing the roll bar switch.

If the roll bar was raised using the switch, it will be automatically lowered when activating the soft top switch.

The roll bar will be automatically raised in an accident or in a potentially dangerous driving situation. A ratchet noise can be heard when the roll bar is automatically raised.

The roll bar can be lowered again after an automatic deployment by pressing the upper half of the roll bar switch

(for at least 5 seconds) until the roll bar drive mechanism audibly engages.

Then press the lower half of the switch to lower the roll bar.

Warning!

This vehicle is a two occupant vehicle. The rear storage area should never be used by any persons.

Raising or lowering of the roll bar could injure rear seated occupants.

Before operating the roll bar switch make sure that the roll bar's path Is clear and no persons due to inattention are injured by the moving roll bar.

For your own safety we recommend to drive with the roll bar raised, if

• the outside temperature is below +5°F(-15°C)

• the soft top is closed and pets are placed in the rear storage area.

Items being transported in the area behind the seats should be placed in such a manner as not to affect the movement of the roll bar when being raised.

65

Note:

If the indicator lamps in the switch are blinking or if the warning lamp in the instrument cluster comes on, then a malfunction has been detected.

In this case, drive only with the roll bar raised until the problem has been corrected. Raise the roll bar by pressing the upper half of the roll bar switch.

The indicator lamps in the switch will go out, however, the warning lamp in the instrument cluster will stay on.

Have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible,

Important!

The roll bar is intended to be a safety enhancement to the other features designed into the vehicle. No system in any vehicle can eliminate the possibility of serious injury or fatality in an accident. Properly fastened seat belts and child restraints must be used!

Antenna

The antenna extends when switching on the radio and/or telephone.

Note:

To retract the antenna (e.g. when entering a car wash) both radio and telephone must be switched off.

Cellular Telephone

The vehicle is prepared for the installation of a cellular telephone. For further information and installation contact your authorized Mercedes-

Benz dealer.

Warning!

Some jurisdictions prohibit the driver from using a cellular telephone while driving a vehicle.

Whether or not prohibited by law, for safety reasons, the driver should not use the cellular telephone while the vehicle is in motion. Stop the vehicle in a safe location before answering or placing a call.

66

1. Adjusting knob

Instrument Lamps

Rotate adjusting knob (1) to vary intensity of instrument lamps.

Display Illumination

Press adjusting knob to briefly illuminate the display (with key removed or in steering lock position 0 or 1).

With exterior lamps switched on the display illumination becomes automatically dim.

Rotate adjusting knob (1) clockwise to its stop to override the dimmed illumination.

Trip odometer

To reset:

• Press adjusting knob (1) once

(with key in steering lock position 2).

• Press adjusting knob (1) twice

(with key removed or in steering lock position 0 or 1).

Clock

Adjusting clock one minute ahead or back:

Pull out adjustment knob (2), briefly turn to the right respectively left and release knob.

Adjusting clock more than one minute ahead or back: Pull out adjustment knob (2), turn to the right respectively left and hold until the desired time is set. Within the first 2 seconds, the minute hand advances 8 minutes and advances another 8 minutes every additional second thereafter.

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Garage Door Opener

1. Remote control transmitter located on inside rear view mirror

2. Portable remote control transmitter

Warning!

When programming a garage door opener, the door moves up or down.

When programming or operating the remote control make sure there is no possibility of anyone being harmed by the moving door.

The built-in remote control is capable of operating up to three separately controlled objects.

Notes:

Certain types of garage door openers are incompatible with the integrated opener, if you should experience difficulties with programming the transmitter, contact your authorized

Mercedes-Benz dealer or call

Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance

Center (in the U.S.A. only) at 1-800-

FOR-MERCedes.

For operation in the USA only: This devise complies with Part 15 of the

FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and

(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Programming or reprogramming the remote control:

1. Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2.

2. Press and hold one button of the remote control located on the inside rear view mirror until its control light begins to flash at a rate of about once a second.

Continue holding down the button.

Note:

The light blinks immediately if the remote control is being programmed for the first time, or if its memory was previously erased.

If you are reprogramming a previously used button, the fight will flash after about 20 seconds.

68

3. Hold end opposite to battery of portable remote control against the inside rear view mirror transmitter to be programmed, While still holding down the button on the transmitter on the inside rear view mirror, press down the button on your portable remote control, until the inside rear view mirror remote control light starts to flash rapidly.

This means that the integrated remote control has accepted the frequency and code of the portable transmitter.

4. If you wish, repeat the procedure for each remaining button.

Operation of remote control:

1. Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2.

2. Select and press the appropriate button (1, 2 or 3) to activate the remote controlled device. The remote control transmitter continues to send the signal as long as the button is pressed - up to 20 seconds.

Erasing the remote control memory:

1. Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2.

2. Simultaneousy holding down buttons 1 and 3 for approximately 20 seconds, or until the control light blinks rapidly, will erase the codes of all three channels.

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Hardtop or

Panorama Roof (optional)

The removal or attachment of the hardtop can be carried out by 2 persons.

Warning!

Do not place your hands between the hardtop and the car body while the hardtop is being locked or unlocked.

Serious personal injury may occur.

Removing Hardtop

(or optional Panorama Roof)

1. Engage parking brake.

2. Open doors.

3. Disconnect plug (1) for rear window defroster.

4. Within 10 seconds of turning key in steering lock to position 2

(engine not running), slide soft top switch (2) back and hold.

Please note, if soft top switch is activated after 10 seconds have expired, turn the key back to position 0 first before the hardtop removing procedure can be started again at step 4.

The unlocking procedure begins after approx. 2 seconds:

• The roll bar lowers.

• The indicator lamp in the soft top switch lights up.

• The hardtop unlocks.

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5. After the hardtop has unlocked remove the key from the steering lock and turn radio off to lower antenna. The indicator lamp in the soft top switch should go out.

Important!

Removal of the key from the steering lock is a safety measure ensuring that the key cannot be turned to position 2 and the soft top switch is without function should anybody push the switch forward causing the roof locking mechanism to work. If hands are at that moment between roof and car body they can be badly injured.

6. Lift the hardtop vertically from its attachment points (3) and locating points (4) and carefully remove to the rear. Exercise caution when maneuvering the top. To avoid paint damage, the top's mounting pins must not be allowed to contact the body.

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Attaching Hardtop

1. Engage parking brake and turn key in steering lock to position 2,

2. Lower roll bar, see Index.

3. Open doors.

4. Turn radio off to lower power antenna, turn key in steering lock to position 0 and remove.

5. From the rear of the vehicle, lift the hardtop carefully over the attachment points (1) and locating points (2). First guide the rear pins of the top vertically into the rear attachment points, then lower the roof onto the vehicle and locate the front locking pins. Exercise caution when maneuvering the top.

To avoid paint damage, the top's mounting pins must not be allowed to contact the body.

6. Turn key in steering lock to position 2. The indicator lamp in the soft top switch lights up.

7. Slide soft top switch (3) forward - the hardtop should lock and the indicator lamp in the switch should go out.

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8. Connect plug (4) for rear window defroster.

Warning!

The raising or lowering procedure of the soft top is not completed if the indicator lamp in the soft top switch:

• does not go out (with key in steering lock position 2),

• blinks when starting to drive and an alarm sounds.

When safe to do so, immediately stop the vehicle and lock the soft top:

• Turn key in steering lock to position 2,

• Slide soft/hardtop switch forward.

Do not drive the car with the hardtop not locked, as that could cause personal injury to you or your passenger, or personal injury or property damage to others.

Notes:

For safety reasons, the hardtop can only be unlocked while the vehicle is standing still, and within 10 seconds after turning the key to steering lock position 2 or beyond.

If the indicator lamp in the soft top switch blinks while activating the switch, the battery voltage may be insufficient - start engine to charge battery before shutting engine off and attempting to unlock the roof again.

If the indicator lamp continues to blink, remove the hardtop (see Index), and have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.

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Soft Top

A minimum height clearance of 6.5 ft

(2 m) is required to lower or raise the soft top.

Do not lower a frozen soft top until thawed and dry. Doing so may result in damage not covered by the Mercedes-

Benz Limited Warranty.

To prevent mildew, the soft top must be dry before lowering it into the storage compartment.

The soft top should not be lowered or raised at outside temperatures below

+5°F (-15°C), since the material becomes less pliable with lower temperatures.

The lowering or raising procedure is immediately interrupted by releasing the soft top switch.

Warning!

Before operating the soft top switch make sure that no persons due to inattention are injured by the moving parts (roll bar, soft top frame and soft top lid).

Hands must never be placed near the roll bar, soft top frame, upper windshield area or soft top storage compartment while the soft top is being locked or unlocked. Serious personal injury may occur.

Lowering Soft Top

1. Engage parking brake.

2. Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

3. Slide soft top switch (1) back and hold:

• The side windows lower

• The roll bar lowers.

• The indicator lamp in the soft top switch lights up.

• The soft top is lowered into the soft top storage compartment.

• The storage compartment cover closes and locks.

• The indicator lamp in the switch goes out – the lowering procedure is completed.

If the soft top switch is held or is released and slid back again within approx. 2 seconds, the side windows will close. If the roll bar was previously in the upright position, it will return to that position.

However, the side windows and the roll bar can also be activated using their respective switches.

Note:

A wet or frozen soft top must not be folded until thawed and dry.

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Antenna

The antenna extends when switching on the radio and/or telephone.

Note:

To retract the antenna (e.g. when entering a car wash) both radio and telephone must be switched off.

Cellular Telephone

The vehicle is prepared for the installation of a cellular telephone. For further information and installation contact your authorized Mercedes-

Benz dealer.

Warning!

Some jurisdictions prohibit the driver from using a cellular telephone while driving a vehicle.

Therefore, for safety reasons, the driver should not use the cellular telephone while the vehicle is in motion. Stop the vehicle in a safe location before answering or placing a call.

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Warning!

The soft top is not locked:

• if the indicator lamp in the soft top switch does not go out (key in steering lock position 2),

• if the indicator lamp blinks when starting to drive and an audible warning sounds simultaneously.

Stop the vehicle and before continuing to drive, lock the soft top:

The key should be in steering lock position 2.

Slide soft top switch forward. If the soft top is not locked, it may fold back or forward when driving.

During soft top operation, do not place your hands near the soft top frame, upper windshield area or soft top storage compartment. Serious personal injury may occur.

For safety reasons, the soft top cannot be unlocked while driving.

However, if the soft top is not completely locked, it can be locked while driving by pushing the soft/hardtop switch forward.

If the indicator lamp in the soft top switch blinks while activating the switch,

• the battery voltage may be insufficient - start engine and let run while activating switch,

• the system may be overloaded

(for example after lowering or raising the soft top approx.5

consecutive times) - after approx. 2 minutes the soft top switch may be activated again,

• and the power supply was interrupted (battery disconnected or empty), the soft top cannot be fully raised or lowered.

To raise the soft top, for safety reasons, first remove key from steering lock. Lower soft top by hand into compartment, and resynchronize the power windows.

See Index.

To lower the soft top, first resynchronize the power windows.

See Index

If the indicator lamp continues to blink, lock the soft top manually.

See Index.

Have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.

Note:

If the roll bar was raised automatically, the process of raising or lowering the soft top will take somewhat longer, as the roll bar must first be lowered.

Whenever possible, park vehicle in the shade as continuous exposure to sun rays can prematurely deteriorate the soft top material.

Permanent creases in the plastic window, caused by storage of the soft top in the storage compartment, cannot be avoided.

The soft top may become moldy if it is kept in the storage compartment for an extended period.

Therefore, we recommend raising and airing it thoroughly with the side windows open (do not expose it to the sun) at regular intervals during the wet and cold seasons.

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Wind Screen

Installation

1. Raise roll bar partially using switch on center console.

2. Insert screen into roll bar by positioning hook at bottom of roll bar, on one side, then push the opposite side in place.

3. Slide wind screen up into roll bar

(1), using care not to get the attachment straps (2) caught.

4. Raise roll bar completely.

5. Wrap attachment straps around roll bar and insert tabs into latches (3).

6. Tighten straps (4).

7. Lower roll bar.

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Setting up

Push top of wind screen fully forward against internal stop

Warning!

The rear storage area should never be occupied by passengers since the vehicle is a 2 seater. Furthermore, with the wind screen in place there is a risk of injury, should the roll bar be deployed.

Removal

1.

Fold down top of wind screen.

2.

Raise roll bar using switch on center console.

3.

Disconnect attachment strap latches by squeezing latch.

4.

Lower roll bar partially

5. Pull wind screen down out of roll bar (5) and lift wind screen out on one side and remove.

Storage

The wind screen can be stored in a trunk mounted container.

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Driving

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