Automatic Climate Control

1. Temperature selector

2. Temperature indicator

3. Conversion switch

4. Function selection buttons

Normal setting

Defrost

Economy

Residual engine heat utilization

Air recirculation

Off

5. Fan speed buttons, 4 stages

6. Air distribution buttons

Air is directed to windshield

Air is directed to windshield, foot area and doors

Air is directed to foot area and doors

Air is directed only to air outlets 8, 12 and

14 (open outlets)

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

8. Center air outlet, adjustable

9. Heated air supply button

(center air outlet)

10.Non-heated/cooled air supply button (center air outlet)

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

12. Left air outlet, adjustable

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

14 Rightair outlet, adjustable

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The temperature selected with the temperature selector is reached as quickly as possible.

The temperature selector should be left at the desired temperature setting.

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

The automatic climate control only operates with the engine running.

Higher engine rpm results in higher coolant compressor rpm, thereby increasing cooling capacity

If a higher heating or cooling capacity is required due to extreme outside temperatures, select a higher blower setting.

The automatic climate control removes considerable moisture from the air during operation in the cooling mode.

It is normal for water to drip on the ground through ducts in the underbody.

Note:

Outside air is drawn in through a filter.

Dust particles (up to a certain size) and pollen are filtered out

1 Temperature Selector

Select the desired temperature with the temperature selector.

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

The selected temperature is shown in the indicator window 2. With conversion switch 3, the selected temperature can be displayed in either

°C or °F.

Note:

If the temperature control should malfunction, turn the temperature selector to either "10°C" ("50°F") or

"40°C" ("104°F") setting.

10°C (50°F) = Heater turned off

40°C (104°F) = Heater turned on

In these cases, we recommend that you have the system checked at your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.

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4 Function Selection Buttons

Normal Setting

Air volume and distribution are controlled automatically.

To select:

Press button

(indicator lamp lights up)

To change selection:

• Press , or button

(indicator lamp of selected button lights up). The indicator lamp for button goes out.

• Press either button 5 or 6 (indicator lamp of selected button lights up).

The indicator lamp for button goes out.

Defrost

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

As the engine coolant temperature increases, a higher blower stage is automatically engaged, thereby defrosting as quickly as possible.

Direct air outlets 12 and 14 towards the side windows. The outlets open automatically.

The center air outlets and the foot area ducts are closed.

To select:

Press lights up).

button (indicator lamp

Economy

The function of this setting corresponds to the normal setting.

However, because the air conditioning compressor will not engage (fuel savings), it is not possible to air condition in this setting.

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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. Press button

(indicator lamp lights up). This function selection will not activate if the engine coolant temperature is below 40°C (105°F) or if the battery charge is insufficient.

To cancel:

• Press button

(indicator lamp goes out).

• Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

• Automatically shuts off after approx. 30 minutes.

• Automatically shuts off if the engine coolant temperature drops below 40°C (105°F).

• Automatically shuts off if the battery voltage drops.

Air Recirculation

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

This mode can be selected to prevent annoying odors or dust from entering the car's interior.

To select:

Press lights up).

button (indicator lamp

To cancel:

Press goes out).

button (indicator lamp

The system will automatically switch from recirculated air to fresh air if button is pressed:

• after approx. 5 minutes at outside temperatures below approx. 5°C

(40°F),

• after approx. 30 minutes, at outside temperatures above approx. 5°C (40°F).

If button is pressed:

• after approx. 5 minutes.

Note:

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.

Off

The fresh air supply to the car interior is shut off. While driving, use this setting only temporarily, otherwise the windows could fog up.

25

Car Keys

Included with your vehicle are

• 2 Master keys with infrared remote control,

• 1 Master key,

• 1 Valet key,

• 1 Flat key.

Master Key with Infrared

Remote Control

The master key fits all locks on the car.

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

Master Key

The master key fits all locks on the car.

Valet Key

The valet key fits only the door locks and the steering lock.

The valet key will not fit the trunk lock or storage compartment eyeglasses compartment lock in the dashboard.

Flat Key

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. Never leave the flat key in the vehicle.

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 .

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 via your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.

The flat key fits all locks on the car.

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1 Transmit button

2 Transmitter eye and battery check

Infrared Remote Control

The vehicle can be centrally locked and unlocked with infrared remote control.

The transmitter is located in the key holder, the receivers are located next to the door locks and below the trunk lock.

3 Receiver in door handle

Unlocking:

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

6 m (20 ft).

The green indicator lamps on the receivers should blink. They stop blinking when the vehicle is unlocked.

3 Receiver under trunk lock

Note:

If the trunk was previously locked separately, it will remain locked (see page 30).

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Locking:

Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver

(3) and press transmit button (1).

Distance to receiver max. 6 m (20 ft).

The red indicator lamps on the receivers should blink. They stop blinking when the vehicle is locked.

Note:

If a door or the trunk is not properly closed, the red indicator lamps will continue to blink (max. 10 seconds).

Open the door or trunk lid, close it properly, and lock the car again.

4 Release button for master key

Master Key in Key Holder

Releasing: press release button (4).

The key unfolds from the holder by itself.

Storing: press release button (4) and fold key back into holder.

Closing Windows from Outside

Continue to press transmit button (1) after locking car. The windows begin to close after approx. 1 second.

Warning!

Never close the windows if there is danger of anyone being harmed by the raising window.

In case of obstruction, the closing procedure can be immediately interrupted by releasing the transmit button. However, the windows can only be lowered using the power window buttons inside the car.

Note:

If the vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked by pressing the transmit button (1), then it may be necessary to change the batteries in the transmitter

(If ok, battery indicator lamp in transmitter will light when transmitting) or to synchronize the system, see "Practical Hints", page

118.

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Central Locking System

The entire vehicle may be locked or unlocked by using the master key in either door or in the trunk lock. The central locking system also locks or unlocks the fuel filler flap.

Locking and Unlocking of Doors

1 Opening - pull handle

2 Unlocking

3 Locking

4 Opening - pull handle

5 Locking

6 Unlocking

Locking - from outside

With driver's door closed – turn key to the right (3).

With passenger's door closed – turn key to the left.

Locking - from inside

With the door closed – push the lock lever down (5).

Unlocking - from outside

At the driver's door - turn key to the left (2).

At the passenger's door - turn key to the right.

Unlocking - from inside

Push the lock lever up (6).

The doors and the trunk are unlocked if previously locked from inside.

If previously locked from outside, only that door will be unlocked

(theft deterrence).

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Note:

The central locking system can only be engaged at the passenger door if the key is removed from the steering lock or is inserted in the steering lock without having been turned.

If a door is not properly closed, unlock the car, open and reclose the door, and lock the car again.

Locking and Unlocking at

Trunk Lock

1. Neutral position

2. Unlocking

3. Locking (detent)

4. Separate locking of trunk

Locking

Turn master key to position 3, turn back to position 1 and remove.

Unlocking

Turn master key to position 2, turn back to position 1 and remove.

Separate Locking and Unlocking of

Trunk

If the trunk is to remain locked (e.g.

when leaving the car at a parking garage or workshop), lock the trunk separately. Turn master key to position

4 and remove in this position. Leave only the valet key with the vehicle.

The trunk (and fuel filler flap) remain locked - even if the central locking system is engaged at a door from outside or inside the car (theft deterrence).

To unlock turn master key to position

2, then back to position 1 and remove.

30

If the trunk is unlocked, the doors and fuel filler flap will also be unlocked.

After closing the trunk, the central locking system must again be engaged to re lock the doors and fuel filler flap.

If the fuel filler flap cannot be opened, refer to "Manual Release of Fuel Filler

Flap" (page 123).

Closing Windows from Outside

Turn key in door lock or trunk lock to the locking position and hold.

The windows begin to close after approx. 1 second.

Warning!

Never close the windows if there is danger of anyone being harmed by the raising window.

In case of obstruction, the closing procedure can be immediately interrupted by turning the key back to the vertical position. However, the windows can only be lowered using the power window buttons inside the car.

Emergency Unlocking in Case of

Accident

The doors unlock automatically a short time after the roll bar is deployed in an accident (this is intended to aid rescue and exit). However, the key in the steering lock must be in steering lock positions 1, 2 or returned to position 0, but not removed.

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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,

• door pockets.

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

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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.

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, opens the eyeglasses compartment in the dashboard.

The alarm will last approximately 150 seconds in the form of blinking exterior lamps. At the same time an alarm 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:

If the radio is removed from its mounting when the anti-theft alarm is armed, the radio will automatically be rendered inoperative! (This is indicated by a dashed line across the display.)

33

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).

Warning!

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

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!

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.

In a normal seated position the belts provide the best restraint for the wearer, as they are only then properly located 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.

34

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".

Using the same position button, the steering column position and rear view mirror positions will also be stored together with the seat position.

Adjusting steering column see page 39 and mirror see page 56.

Recalling Stored Positions

Press position button "1", "2" or "3" and hold until seat/head restraint/ steering wheel/mirror movement has stopped.

Note:

For safety reasons, the seat/head restraint/steering wheel/mirror movement stops after releasing the position button.

35

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.

36

Orthopedic Seat Backrest

1.

Pressure regulator

2.

Height regulator

Some models may be equipped with orthopedic seats. These seats have an inflatable air cushion built into the backrest to provide additional lumbar support.

The pressure and height regulators are located on the driver's seat on the left, on the passenger's seat on the right.

The amount of cushion height and curvature may be adjusted after turning the key to steering lock position 1 or 2.

The inflation pressure of the air cushion can be varied between position

"0" = without pressure, and position

"4" = maximum pressure, by changing the pressure regulator (1) setting. In addition, the cushion height may be changed to five different settings between position "a" = lowest setting, and "e" = highest setting, by varying the height regulator (2) adjustment.

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.

37

Heated Seats

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

Turning on heater: Press upper half of switch = normal heating mode. One indicator lamp in the switch lights up.

Press lower half of switch = 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.

38

Arm Rest

To adjust: Press button (1) and slide arm rest 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 page 35.

39

Seat Belts and Supplemental

Restraint System

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

40

1 Latch plate

2 Buckle

3 Release button

Fastening

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. For safety reasons, avoid adjusting the seat or seat back into positions which could affect the correct seat belt position (see warning on page 43).

Press switch (4) to adjust seat belt 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.

41

Unfastening

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.

The emergency tensioning retractors tighten the fastened seat belts during frontal and front-angled impacts exceeding the first threshold of the

SRS (see page 44).

42

Warning!

• Each occupant should wear their seat belt at all times.

Together with the "SRS", the seat belt offers the best conditions for protection of the body in case of major frontal impact.

• 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, this 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 a crash.

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

• Infants and small children must be seated in an infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured by the lap belt portion of the lap-shoulder belt

Children could be endangered in an accident if their child restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle.

• Children too big for child restraint systems should use regular seat belts. Position shoulder belt across the chest and shoulder, not the face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper belt positioning.

• Adjust the passenger seat as far as possible rearward from the dashboard, especially if a child restraint is installed.

• Each seat belt should never be used for more than one person at a time.

• Belts should not be worn twisted.

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

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

For cleaning and care of the seat belts, see page 115.

43

Supplemental Restraint System

(SRS)

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 frontal and front-angled impacts exceeding the first threshold of the SRS. They remove slack from the belts in such a way that the seat belts 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 page 48.

44

Airbags

The most effective occupant restraint system yet developed for use in production vehicles is the three point seat belt. In some cases, however, the protective effect of a seat belt can be further enhanced by an airbag. The driver airbag (1) is located in the steering wheel hub. The passenger airbag (2) is located in the dashboard ahead of the passenger. In conjunction with wearing the seat belts with emergency tensioning retractors (4), they provide increased protection for the driver and passenger.

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 continues to monitor the components and circuitry of the airbag system and will indicate a malfunction by coming on again.

45

The following system components are monitored or undergo a self-check: crash-sensor, airbag ignition circuits, driver and passenger seat belt buckles.

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

In the event a malfunction of the "SRS" is indicated as outlined above, the

"SRS" may not be operational. 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.

Important!

The airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal and frontangled impacts (within the shaded area shown in the illustration on page 44). Only during these types of impacts 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, rollovers, certain side impacts, rear collisions, or other accidents without frontal forces, the airbag will not be activated. The driver and passengers will then be protected by the fastened seat belts.

Important!

The "SRS" is designed to reduce the potential of injury in certain frontal and front-angled impacts which may cause injuries, however, no system available today can totally eliminate injuries and fatalities.

The activation of the "SRS" temporarily releases a small amount of dust from the air-bags. 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.

46

Warning!

It is very important for your safety to always be in a properly seated position.

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.

Since the airbag inflates with considerable speed and force, a proper seating position will keep you in a safe distance from the airbag:

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

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

• Adjust the passenger as far as possible rearward from the dashboard, especially when a child restraint is installed.

• Infants and small children should only be seated in an infant or child restraint which is properly secured by the seat belt.

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

47

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 neat "SRS" components and wiring.

• Several airbag system components at the steering wheel get hot after the airbag 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.

48

Infants and Child Restraint Systems

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

Important!

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 infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured by the lap belt portion of the lap-shoulder belt, and that complies-with U.S.

Federal Motor Safety Standard 213 and

Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety

Standard 213.1.

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!

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

Infants and small children should never be held on the lap while the vehicle is in motion. During an accident they would be almost impossible to hold, and could be crushed between the adult and the dashboard.

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 shoulder belt across the chest and shoulder, not the face or neck. A booster seat may be necessary to achieve proper belt positioning.

U.S.A. Models only

Since 1986 all child restraints comply with U.S. regulations (or FMVSS 213) without the use of a tether strap.

Canada Models only

This vehicle can be equipped with a tether anchorage for use with child restraints that have a top tether strap.

Consult your authorized MERCEDES-

BENZ dealer for installation of this anchorage.

49

Steering Lock

0 Steering is locked when the key is withdrawn and the steering lock is engaged.

The key can be withdrawn only in position 0.

In models equipped with automatic transmission, the key can be removed only with the selector lever in position "P".

With the key removed, the selector lever is locked in position "P".

Warning!

Models with manual transmission: Do not remove key from the steering lock while the vehicle is in motion as this will cause the engagement of the steering lock, thus rendering the vehicle impossible to steer.

1 Steering is unlocked. (If necessary, move steering wheel slightly and turn key clockwise to position 1.)

2 Driving position.

3 Starting position.

Note:

For starting and turning off the engine, refer to page 15.

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.

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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The following items can be operated with the key in steering lock position 1:

Wiper, windshield washer system, headlamp cleaning system

(only in exterior lamp switch positions

_ or ), headlamp flasher, radio (also in position 0), lighter, rear window defroster, power windows, power seats, orthopedic seat backrest, heated seats, steering column adjustment.

An audible warning sounds 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".

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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)

7.

O

I

II

Press switch past resistance point:

Windshield washer, windshield wiper; headlamp cleaning system

(only in exterior lamp switch positions or .

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

Windshield wiper

Wiper off

Intermittent wiping

Normal wiper speed

III Fast wiper speed

When coming to a stop or driving slower than approx. 20 km/h (13 mph), the wiper speed automatically switches to the next lower setting.

In setting "I", the interval between wipes is lengthened.

Upon accelerating again, the wiper speed returns to the previous setting.

Note:

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

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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 motor.

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.

Signaling Turns with Hazard

Flasher in Use

For example, when the vehicle is being towed:

With hazard flasher on, activate combination switch for left or right turn signal - only the selected turn signal will blink.

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

Turn Signal Failure

If one of the turn signals fails, the turn signal indicator system flashes and sounds at a faster than normal rate. In addition, the exterior lamp failure indicator will come on.

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Exterior Lamp Switch

Canada only:

When the engine is running, the low beam (includes parking lamps, side marker lamps, taillamps, license plate lamps and instrument panel lamps) are automatically switched on.

Note:

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

Off

Parking lamps (includes 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)

Fog lamps (pull out one stop) with parking and/or headlamps on

Rear fog lamp (pull out to

2nd detent) In addition to fog lamps. 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 can only be operated with the key in steering lock position 0 or 1.

Note:

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

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

Motor Vehicle Regulations regarding allowable lamp operation.

Fog lamps are automatically switched off when the exterior lamp switch is turned to position O .

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Exterior Rear View Mirror,

Electrically Adjustable

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.

Note:

The exterior mirrors have electric-ally heated glass. The heater switches on automatically, depending on the 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.

Warning!

E 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 are closer than they appear.

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

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Inside Rear View Mirror,

Electrically Adjustable

The switch is located in the center console.

Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

Turn the switch for the exterior rear view mirror adjustment to its center position and adjust by moving the switch forward, backward or to either side.

Antiglare night position: Tilt the mirror to the antiglare night position using the lever at its lower edge.

Storing Mirror Positions in

Memory

The exterior and interior rear view mirror positions are stored in memory with the seat/head restraint/steering column position and can be recalled when necessary, see page 35.

Note:

If the inside rear view mirror was adjusted manually, the originally stored position remains in memory.

To recall position, press the desired position button.

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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. From this position, the visor can slide forward and backward on its shaft.

Vanity mirror:

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

Setting Clock

Location of knob, see page 12.

Adjusting clock ahead:

Pull out adjustment knob, turn to the right and hold.

Adjusting clock back:

Pull out adjustment knob, turn to the left and hold.

Adjusting clock one minute ahead or back:

Pull out adjustment knob, briefly turn to the left or right and release knob.

Adjusting clock more than one minute ahead or back:

Pull out adjustment knob, turn to the left or right and hold until the desired time is set.

Adjusting speed:

Within the first 2 seconds, the minute hand advances 8 minutes and advances another 8 minutes every additional second thereafter.

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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).

Note:

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

For interior central locking system see page 32.

Locking:

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

Unlocking:

Turn master key back to vertical position.

Console Storage Compartments

To open front compartment

(cassette storage):

Slide cover (1) back.

Opening rear compartment:

Press button (2).

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Door Pockets

To open: Lift cover.

Rear Storage Compartments

To open compartment:

Press button (1) and lift cover.

Lighter

1. Cover

2. Lighter

Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2,

Slide cover (1) forward.

Push in lighter (2); it will pop out automatically when hot.

Warning!

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

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Interior Lighting

The switch is 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 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.

Reading Lamps

4.

Left reading lamp switched on,

5.

Reading lamps switched off.

6.

Flight reading lamp switched on.

Entrance Lamps, Exit Lamps

Entrance lamps are located in the footwells under the dashboard.

Exit lamps are located in the door pockets.

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

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Rear Window Defroster

The switch is located in the center console.

Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2.

When activating the rear window defroster, the indicator lamp in the switch will come on.

Note:

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

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.

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Power Windows

The switch is located in the center console.

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

Press switch up to resistance point: to close to open

Release switch when window is in desired position.

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

Note:

If the vehicle is left with a door open for a long period, the battery could discharge.

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.

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.

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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

-15°C (5°F)

• 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.

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 defect has been repaired. 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!

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Hardtop

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

1. Engage parking brake.

2. Open doors or windows.

3. Disconnect plug for rear window defroster. Fold cover

(1) away and remove plug.

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,

3.

Open doors or windows.

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.

Disengage cover (4) and fold back. Connect rear window defroster plug. Secure cover (4).

Warning!

The hardtop 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.

Before continuing to drive, lock the hardtop:

Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

Slide soft/hardtop switch forward.

Note:

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, lock the hardtop manually.

See page 122.

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 2 meters (6.5 ft) is required to lower or raise the soft top.

Do not lower a frozen soft top until thawed and dry.

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-

15°C (+ 5°F).

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

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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Raising Soft Top

1.

Engage parking brake.

2.

Turn key in steering lock to position 2.

3.

Slide soft top switch (2) forward and hold:

• The side windows lower.

• The roll bar lowers.

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

• The soft top closes and locks.

• The indicator lamp in the soft top switch goes out -the closing procedure is completed.

If the soft top switch is held or is released and slid forward 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:

If the soft top does not engage in the windshield header attachment points, then release the soft top switch. Reach into the grip (3) and guide the pins into their respective locks while pulling down, slide soft top switch (2) forward again.

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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.

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

See page 119.

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.

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.

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Driving

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