Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Operator's Manual

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Operator's Manual

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Summary of Contents for Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

  • Page 1 Operator’s Manual SL-Class...
  • Page 2 Ê7%tMrUË 2305844582 Order No. 6515 3053 13 Part No. 230 584 45 82 USA Edition A, 2005...
  • Page 3 SL 500 SL 55 AMG SL 600 SL 65 AMG...
  • Page 4 Your Mercedes-Benz represents the ef- forts of many skilled engineers and crafts- men. To help assure your driving pleasure, and also the safety of you and your passen-...
  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Operator’s Manual ... 10 Service and warranty information .. 10 Important notice for California retail buyers and lessees of Mercedes-Benz automobiles ... 11 Maintenance ... 12 Roadside Assistance ... 12 Change of address or ownership... 12 Operating your vehicle outside the USA or Canada...
  • Page 6 Contents Safety and Security ... 61 Occupant safety... 62 Airbags ... 63 Seat belts ... 69 Roll bar... 73 Children in the vehicle... 74 Panic alarm ... 78 Activating ... 78 Deactivating ... 78 Driving safety systems... 79 ABS ... 80 BAS ...
  • Page 7 Vehicle status message memory menu... 143 Settings menu... 144 Trip computer menu... 159 TEL menu* ... 161 Automatic transmission... 164 One-touch gearshifting... 166 Gear ranges ... 167 Gear selector lever position ... 168 Automatic shift program ... 170 Driving tips... 171 Steering wheel gearshift control (Speedshift)...
  • Page 8 Contents Operation ... 253 The first 1000 miles (1500 km) ... 254 Driving instructions... 255 Drive sensibly – save fuel ... 255 Drinking and driving ... 255 Pedals ... 255 Power assistance ... 256 Brakes ... 256 Driving off... 258 Parking ...
  • Page 9 Practical hints ... 323 What to do if … ... 324 Lamps in the instrument cluster .. 324 AIRBAG OFF indicator lamp ... 334 Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display... 335 Where will I find ...? ... 372 First aid kit... 372 Vehicle tool kit, jack, and spare wheel...
  • Page 10 Contents Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc..431 Capacities ... 431 Engine oils... 433 Engine oil additives ... 433 Air conditioner refrigerant ... 433 Brake fluid ... 433 Premium unleaded gasoline ... 434 Fuel requirements ... 434 Gasoline additives ... 435 Coolants...
  • Page 11: Introduction

    Product information Please observe the following in your own best interest: We recommend using genuine Mercedes-Benz parts as well as conversion parts and accessories explicitly approved by us for your vehicle model. We have tested these parts to determine their reliability, safety and special suitabili- ty for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
  • Page 12: Operator's Manual

    Therefore, you may find explanations for optional equipment not installed in your vehicle. If you have any questions about the operation of any equipment, your au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to demonstrate the proper proce- dures. We continuously strive to improve our...
  • Page 13: Mercedes-Benz Automobiles

    30 calender days. Written notification should be sent to us, not a dealer, at Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC, Customer Assistance Center, One Mercedes Drive, Montvale, NJ 07645-0350.
  • Page 14: Maintenance

    Always have the Maintenance Booklet with you when you take the vehicle to your au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center for ser- vice. The service advisor will record each service in the booklet for you. Roadside Assistance...
  • Page 15: Operating Your Vehicle Outside The Usa Or Canada

    Certain Mercedes-Benz models are avail- able for delivery in Europe under our Euro- pean Delivery Program. For details, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or...
  • Page 16: Where To Find It

    Here you will find all the information you need for your first drive. You should read this section first if this is your first Mercedes-Benz vehicle or if you are rent- ing or borrowing this vehicle. Safety and Security Here you will find descriptions of the safety features in your vehicle.
  • Page 17: Symbols

    Symbols The following symbols are found in this Operator’s Manual: Optional equipment is identified with an asterisk. Since standard equipment varies between models, the descriptions and illustrations in this manual may differ slightly from the actual equipment of your vehi- cle.
  • Page 18: Operating Safety

    Electronic malfunctions could seri- ously impair the operating safety of your vehicle. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for repairs or modifications to electronic components. Other improper work or modifications on the vehicle could also have a negative impact on the operating safety of the vehicle.
  • Page 19: Problems With Your Vehicle

    If you should experience a problem with your vehicle, particularly one that you believe may affect its safe operation, we urge you to immediately contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center to have the problem diagnosed and corrected if required. If the matter is...
  • Page 20: Reporting Safety Defects

    If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign.
  • Page 21: Vehicle Data Recording

    Vehicle data recording Information regarding electronic recording devices (Including notice pursuant to California Code § 9951) Please note that your vehicle is equipped with devices that can record vehicle systems data and, if equipped with the Tele Aid system, may transmit some data in certain accidents. This information helps, for example, to diagnose vehicle systems after a collision and to continuously improve vehicle safety.
  • Page 23: At A Glance

    At a glance Cockpit Instrument cluster Multifunction steering wheel Center console Overhead control panel Door control panel...
  • Page 24: Cockpit

    At a glance Cockpit...
  • Page 25 Item Page 1 Parking brake pedal 2 Hood lock release 3 Parking brake release 4 Door control panel 5 Exterior lamp switch 6 Headlamp washer button 7 Combination switch Turn signals Windshield wipers High beam Item Page 8 Steering wheel gearshift control (SL 55 AMG, SL 65 AMG, and vehicles with...
  • Page 26: Instrument Cluster

    At a glance Instrument cluster...
  • Page 27: Brake Warning

    Item Page 1 Coolant temperature gauge with: D Coolant tempera- ture warning lamp 2 Speedometer with: ; Brake warning lamp, USA only 3 Brake warning lamp, Canada only v ABS/ESP warning lamp E Distronic* indica- tor lamp (white) or warning lamp (red) Vehicles without Distronic*: Warning lamp without function.
  • Page 28 At a glance Instrument cluster...
  • Page 29 Item Page 5 Tachometer with: A High beam head- lamp indicator ú Engine malfunction indicator lamp, USA only ± Engine malfunction indicator lamp, Canada only C Roll bar warning lamp - Antilock Brake Sys- tem (ABS) indicator lamp Item Page 1 Supplemental re- straint system indi- cator lamp...
  • Page 30: Multifunction Steering Wheel

    At a glance Multifunction steering wheel Item Page 1 Left multifunction display in the speedometer 2 Right multifunction display in the tachometer Operating the control system 3 Selecting the submenu or setting the volume: Press button ç down/to decrease æ up/to increase 4 Telephone*: Press button í...
  • Page 31: Important Notice For California Center Console

    Center console Upper part Item Page 1 Central locking switch 2 Hazard warning flasher on/off switch 3 Central unlocking switch 4 Center and side air vent ad- justment 5 COMAND system, see sep- arate operating instruc- tions 6 Automatic climate control 7 Right cup holder 8 KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button...
  • Page 32: Lower Part

    At a glance Center console Lower part Item Page 1 Parking assist (Parktronic system)* deactivation switch 2 Active Body Control (ABC) switch 3 Tow-away alarm switch 4 Hardtop open/close con- trol with buttons for roll bar 5 Exterior rear view mirror adjustment Item Page...
  • Page 33: Overhead Control Panel

    Overhead control panel 1 Left reading lamp on/off 2 Temperature sensor for 3 Right reading lamp on/off 4 Interior lighting control 5 Hands-free microphone 6 Rear view mirror 7 Garage door opener 8 Tele Aid (emergency call Item Page automatic climate control for Tele Aid (emergency call system), telephone* and voice control system*...
  • Page 34: Door Control Panel

    At a glance Door control panel Item Page 1 Door handle 2 Switches for open- ing/closing front and rear side windows 3 Memory function (for stor- ing seat, mirror and steer- ing wheel settings) 4 Seat heating switch Seat ventilation* switch 5 Seat adjustment switch 6 Remote trunk lid release switch...
  • Page 35: Getting Started

    Getting started Unlocking Adjusting Driving Parking and locking...
  • Page 36: Unlocking

    Getting started Unlocking The “Getting started” section provides an overview of the vehicle’s most basic func- tions. First-time Mercedes-Benz owners should pay special attention to the infor- mation given here. If you are already familiar with the basic functions described here, the “Controls in detail”...
  • Page 37: Unlocking With Keyless-Go

    Unlocking with KEYLESS-GO* If your vehicle is equipped with the KEYLESS-GO function, your vehicle checks whether the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is valid when you grasp the door handle. If your SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is valid, the doors will unlock and you can open them.
  • Page 38: Starter Switch Positions

    Getting started Unlocking Starter switch positions Warning! When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey or the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle.
  • Page 39 SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* If the SmartKey cannot be turned in the You can also use the SmartKey with starter switch, the starter battery may KEYLESS-GO like a normal SmartKey. not be sufficiently charged. Check the starter battery and charge it if necessary ( page 401). Get a jump start ( page 406).
  • Page 40 Getting started Unlocking Ignition (or Position 2) Press the KEYLESS-GO start/stop but- ton twice. This supplies power to all electrical consumers. All lamps (except high beam headlamp indicator lamp and turn signal indicator lamps unless acti- vated) in the instrument cluster come If you now press the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button once, the power sup- ply is again switched off.
  • Page 41: Adjusting

    Adjusting Warning! All seat, head restraint, steering wheel, and rear view mirror adjustments, as well as fas- tening of seat belts, must be done before the vehicle is put into motion. Seats 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.
  • Page 42 Adjusting 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 ve- hicle to deactivate the passenger front air- bag when it is properly installed.
  • Page 43 Seat height Press the switch up or down in direc- tion of arrow 2. Seat cushion tilt Press the switch up or down in direction of arrow 3 until your upper legs are lightly supported. Seat cushion depth Press the switch forward or backward in direction of arrow 4 until your legs are supported comfortably.
  • Page 44: Steering Wheel

    Getting started Adjusting Steering wheel Warning! Do not adjust the steering wheel while driv- ing. Adjusting the steering wheel while driv- ing could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey or the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle.
  • Page 45: Mirrors

    Mirrors Adjust the interior and exterior rear view mirrors before driving so that you have a good view of the road and traffic condi- tions. Warning! In the case of an accident, liquid electrolyte may escape the mirror housing if the mirror glass breaks.
  • Page 46 Getting started Adjusting If an exterior rear view mirror was forc- ibly pushed forward (hit from the rear) or forcibly pushed rearward (hit from the front), reposition it by applying firm pressure until it snaps into place. The mirror housing is then properly posi- tioned and you can adjust the mirror in the usual manner.
  • Page 47: Driving

    ( page 62). 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 ve- hicle to deactivate the passenger front air- bag when it is properly installed.
  • Page 48 Getting started Driving Infants and small children must be seated in an appropriate BabySmart compatible infant or child restraint system, which is properly secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, fully in accordance with the child 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...
  • Page 49 In a crash, they may not be able to provide adequate protection. Damaged seat belts or belts that were highly stressed in an accident must be replaced. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Getting started Driving...
  • Page 50: Starting The Engine

    Getting started Driving Starting the engine Warning! Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, and inhaling it can cause uncon- sciousness and lead to death. Do not run the engine in confined areas (such as a garage) which are not properly ventilated.
  • Page 51 Get a jump start ( page 406). If the engine does not start after several starting attempts, there could be a mal- function in the engine electronics or in the fuel supply system. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
  • Page 52 Getting started Driving Parking brake 1 Parking brake 2 Parking brake release handle Warning! When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey or the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle.
  • Page 53: Switching On Headlamps

    Once the vehicle is in motion, the automat- ic central locking system engages and the locking knobs drop down. If you hear a warning signal when driv- ing off, you have forgotten to release the parking brake. Release the parking brake. After a cold start, the transmission engag- es at a higher revolution.
  • Page 54: Turn Signals

    Getting started Driving High beam The combination switch is located on the left of the steering column. Combination switch 1 High beam 2 High beam flasher Push the combination switch in direc- tion of arrow 1. The high beam headlamps come on. The high beam headlamp indicator A in the instrument cluster comes on ( page 27).
  • Page 55: Windshield Wipers

    Windshield wipers The combination switch is located on the left of the steering column. Combination switch 1 Single wipe 2 Switching on windshield wipers Switch on the ignition ( page 36). Switching on windshield wipers Turn the combination switch to the de- sired position depending on the inten- sity of the rain.
  • Page 56 Remove blockage. Turn the windshield wipers on again. If windshield wipers fail to function at all in switch position I, set the combination switch to the next higher wiper speed have the windshield wipers checked at the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center...
  • Page 57: Problems While Driving

    Unburned gasoline may have entered the catalytic converter and damaged it. Give very little gas. Have the problem repaired by an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. The coolant temperature gauge is above 248°F (120°C) The coolant is too hot and is no longer cooling the engine.
  • Page 58: Parking And Locking

    Getting started Parking and locking You have now completed your first drive. You have properly stopped and parked your vehicle. End your drive as follows. Warning! With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems.
  • Page 59: Parking Brake

    Parking brake 1 Parking brake 2 Release handle Step firmly on parking brake 1. When the engine is running, the indica- tor lamp ; (USA only) or 3 (Canada only) in the instrument cluster will be illuminated. Warning! When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey or the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle.
  • Page 60: Turning Off The Engine

    Getting started Parking and locking Turning off the engine Place the gear selector lever in position P. Always set the parking brake in addi- tion to shifting to position P. On slopes, turn the front wheels to- wards the road curb. Turning off with the SmartKey Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch ( page 36) to position 0 and remove...
  • Page 61 Warning! When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsuper- vised use of vehicle equipment may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury.
  • Page 62: Emergency Engine Shut-Down

    Getting started Parking and locking Warning! To prevent possible personal injury, always keep hands and fingers away from the door openings when closing the doors. Be espe- cially careful when small children are around. Before closing doors, make sure that there is no possibility of someone getting caught in a door during closing.
  • Page 63: Safety And Security

    Safety and Security Occupant safety Panic alarm Driving safety systems Anti-theft systems...
  • Page 64: Occupant Safety

    Safety and Security Occupant safety In this section you will learn the most im- portant facts about the restraint systems of the vehicle. The restraint systems are Seat belts Emergency tensioning device Airbags Child seats Child seat recognition As independent systems, their protective effects work in conjunction with each oth- For information on infants and children traveling with you in the vehicle and re-...
  • Page 65: Airbags

    SRS self-check has detected a malfunction. For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately to have the system checked; otherwise the SRS may not be activated when needed in an acci-...
  • Page 66 If you have any prob- lems, please see an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not lean with your head or chest close to the steering wheel or dash- board.
  • Page 67 Mercedes-Benz Center at an addi- tional cost. Please contact your local authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call our Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (1-800-367-6372) for details.
  • Page 68 Safety and Security Occupant safety Airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal impacts (front airbags, driver-side kneebag) and side impacts (head-thorax airbags) which exceed preset thresholds. Only during these types of impacts, if of sufficient severi- ty to meet the deployment threshold, will they provide their supplemental protection.
  • Page 69 These instructions are available from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Given the considerable deployment speed and the textile structure of the airbags, there is the possibility of abra- sions or other injuries resulting from air- bag deployment.
  • Page 70 Safety and Security Occupant safety Front airbags Driver and passenger airbags are de- ployed: in the event of certain frontal impacts if impact exceeds a preset deployment threshold independently of the head-thorax air- bags The airbags will not deploy in impacts which do not exceed the system’s deploy- ment thresholds.
  • Page 71: Seat Belts

    Head-thorax airbags The head-thorax airbags are deployed: on the impacted side of the vehicle in impacts exceeding a preset deploy- ment threshold independently of the front airbags The head-thorax airbags are not deployed in impacts which do not exceed the sys- tem’s deployment threshold.
  • Page 72 Safety and Security Occupant safety Warning! Always fasten your seat belt before driving off. Always make sure your passengers are properly restrained, even pregnant women. Failure to wear and properly fasten and po- sition your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident.
  • Page 73 Only use seat belts which have been ap- proved by Mercedes-Benz. Do not make any modifications to the seat belts. This can lead to unintended activation or to failure.
  • Page 74 When disposing of the emergency tension- ing device, our safety instructions must be followed. These are available at your autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not place objects heavier than 20 lbs (9 kg) on the front passenger seat. This could cause the front or side...
  • Page 75: Roll Bar

    For safety reasons, drive only with the roll bar upright until the malfunction is repaired. Have your vehicle checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Raising the roll bar Lift the switch for the retractable hard- top. Press and hold button 2 until the roll...
  • Page 76: Children In The Vehicle

    Infant and child restraint seats and infor- mation on choosing an appropriate re- straint system can be obtained from any Mercedes-Benz Center. Infant and child restraint systems Only use a BabySmart compatible child restraint for the front passenger seat in this vehicle.
  • Page 77 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 ve- hicle to deactivate the passenger front air- bag when it is properly installed.
  • Page 78 Special BabySmart compatible child seats, designed for use with the Mercedes-Benz system and available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, are required for use with the BabySmart air- bag deactivation system. With the special child seat properly installed, the passenger front airbag will not deploy.
  • Page 79 Warning! The BabySmart airbag deactivation sys- tem will ONLY work with a special child seat designed to operate with it. It will not work with child 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 sys- tem.
  • Page 80: Panic Alarm

    Safety and Security Panic alarm An audible alarm and flashing exterior lamps will operate for approximately minutes. 1 Â button Activating Press and hold button 1 for at least one second. Deactivating Press button 1 again. Insert SmartKey in starter switch. USA only: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
  • Page 81: Driving Safety Systems

    Driving safety systems In this section you will find information on the following driving safety systems: ABS (Antilock Brake System) BAS (Brake Assist System) ESP (Electronic Stability Program) SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) Warning! In winter operation, the maximum ef- fectiveness of the ABS, the BAS, the The following factors increase the risk of ac- ESP, and the SBC is only achieved with cidents:...
  • Page 82: Abs

    Safety and Security Driving safety systems Warning! Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, steady brake pedal pressure instead. Pump- ing the brake pedal defeats the purpose of the ABS and significantly reduces braking effectiveness. The Antilock Brake System (ABS) regulates the brake pressure so that the wheels do not lock during braking.
  • Page 83: Bas

    Warning! The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking or steering efficiency be- yond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded. The ABS cannot prevent acci- dents, including those resulting from exces- sive speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning.
  • Page 84: Esp

    Safety and Security Driving safety systems The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is operational as soon as the engine is run- ning and monitors the vehicle's traction (force of adhesive friction between the tires and the road surface) and handling. The ESP recognizes when a wheel is spin- ning or if the vehicle starts to skid.
  • Page 85 Because of the ESP’s automatic opera- tion, the engine must be shut off (SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1 or KEYLESS-GO* start/stop but- ton in position 0 or 1) when the parking brake is being tested on a brake test dynamometer the vehicle is being towed with the front/rear axle raised Active braking action through the ESP...
  • Page 86 Avoid spinning of a drive wheel for an extended period with the ESP switched off. This may cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Switching on the ESP Press ESP switch 1. The ABS/ESP warning lamp v in the instrument cluster goes out.
  • Page 87: Sbc Brake System

    SBC brake system The SBC brake system combines a hydrau- lic brake circuit with electronically con- trolled brake servo assistance. You have increased braking safety and improved braking comfort. Warning! Never ignore a brake malfunction indicated in the speedometer display, for example by the ;...
  • Page 88 Contact an au- When releasing the pedal, you may also thorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further feel the brake pedal pulsate and you information. The SBC brake system must be may hear a sound which is caused by deactivated prior to working on the system.
  • Page 89 Only Mercedes-Benz approved compo- nents (e.g. brake pads) should be in- stalled on your vehicle. Brake pads not approved by Mercedes-Benz may im- pair the safety of your vehicle.
  • Page 90: Anti-Theft Systems

    In case the engine cannot be started (yet the vehicle’s battery is charged), the system is not operational. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (in the USA), or 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada). Anti-theft alarm system Once the alarm system has been armed, a...
  • Page 91 The alarm system will also be triggered when someone attempts to raise the vehicle unlocking and opening the driver’s door with the mechanical key someone opens a door from the inside if the vehicle was locked from the out- side with the SmartKey someone opens the trunk lid with the emergency release button If the alarm stays on for more than...
  • Page 92: Tow-Away Alarm

    Safety and Security Anti-theft systems Canceling the alarm To cancel the alarm: With the SmartKey Insert the SmartKey in the starter switch. Press the Œ or ‹ button on the SmartKey. With KEYLESS-GO* Grasp the outside door handle. The SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO must be within 3 ft.
  • Page 93 1 Tow-away alarm off button 2 Indicator lamp Switch off ignition and remove the SmartKey from the starter switch. You cannot disarm the tow-away alarm if the ignition is switched on. Press button 1. The indicator lamp 2 in the switch comes on briefly.
  • Page 95: Controls In Detail

    Controls in detail Locking and unlocking Seats Memory function Lighting Instrument cluster Control system Automatic transmission Good visibility Automatic climate control Power windows Retractable hardtop Driving systems Useful features...
  • Page 96: Locking And Unlocking

    Controls in detail Locking and unlocking In the “Controls in detail” section you will find detailed information on how to oper- ate the equipment installed on your vehi- cle. If you are already familiar with the basic functions of your vehicle, this section will be of particular interest to you.
  • Page 97 SmartKey with remote control 1 ‹ Lock button 2 Š Unlock button for the trunk lid 3 Mechanical key locking tab 4 Œ Unlock button 5 Battery check lamp 6  Panic button ( page 78) Warning! When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle.
  • Page 98 Controls in detail Locking and unlocking Canada only: This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause interfer- ence, and (2) this device must accept any inter- ference received, including interfer- ence that may cause undesired operation undesired operation of...
  • Page 99 ( page 401). Use the mechanical key to lock or unlock the doors ( page 376). If the SmartKey is malfunctioning, con- tact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Controls in detail Locking and unlocking Press button ‹ or Œ.
  • Page 100: Smartkey With Keyless-Go

    Report the loss of the SmartKey or the mechanical key to your car insurance company immediately. If necessary, have the mechanical lock replaced. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to supply you with a replace- ment. SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* Vehicles equipped with KEYLESS-GO come...
  • Page 101 If the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is valid, your vehicle unlocks the doors the trunk lid the glove box the storage compartment under the armrest the storage compartment in the rear the fuel filler flap SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO 1 ‹ Lock button 2 Š...
  • Page 102 Controls in detail Locking and unlocking USA only: This device 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 inter- ference received, including interfer- ence that may cause undesired operation.
  • Page 103 Important notes on using KEYLESS-GO You can also use the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO like a normal SmartKey ( page 94). You can combine KEYLESS-GO func- tions with normal SmartKey functions (e.g. unlocking with KEYLESS-GO and locking with the Œ button). Always carry the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO with you.
  • Page 104 Controls in detail Locking and unlocking If the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is re- moved from the vehicle while the en- gine is running (e.g. if passenger exits the vehicle with the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO), the message Key not recognized! will appear in the multi- function display while driving off.
  • Page 105 Selective setting If you frequently travel alone, you may wish to reprogram the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO so that grasping a door han- dle only unlocks the driver’s door, interior lockable storage compartments and the fuel filler flap. Press and hold buttons Œ and ‹ simultaneously for about six seconds until battery check lamp 5 ( page 94) flashes twice.
  • Page 106 Use the mechanical key to lock or unlock the doors ( page 376). If the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO is malfunctioning, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Global locking using the lock button at trunk lid Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO*: To pre- vent a possible inadvertent lockout, the...
  • Page 107 SmartKey battery is dis- charged. Replace the battery ( page 377). You can obtain the required battery at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Unlocking the trunk You can unlock the trunk separately. A minimum height clearance of 6.2 ft (1.88 m) is required to open the trunk lid.
  • Page 108: Opening The Doors From The Inside

    Have the mechanical lock replaced if necessary. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to supply you with a replace- ment. Opening the doors from the inside You can open a locked door from the in- side.
  • Page 109: Opening The Trunk

    If you open a door, the side windows on that side of the vehicle will lower slight- ly. The windows close again when you close the door. Opening the trunk A minimum height clearance of 6.2 ft (1.88 m) is required to open the trunk lid.
  • Page 110 Controls in detail Locking and unlocking The trunk can also be opened using the SmartKey, see “Locking and un- locking” ( page 94) the remote trunk lid release switch, see “Opening the trunk from the inside” ( page 108) the trunk lid emergency release button, see “Trunk lid emergency release”...
  • Page 111: Closing The Trunk

    Closing the trunk Warning! To prevent possible personal injury, always keep hands and fingers away from the trunk opening when closing the trunk lid. Be espe- cially careful when small children are around. 1 Handle Lower trunk lid by firmly pulling on handle 1.
  • Page 112: Automatic Central Locking

    Controls in detail Locking and unlocking The emergency release button unlocks the trunk while the vehicle is standing still or in motion. Illumination of the emergency release but- ton: The button flashes for 30 minutes after opening the trunk. The button flashes for 60 minutes after closing the trunk.
  • Page 113: Locking And Unlocking From The Inside

    Locking and unlocking from the inside You can lock or unlock the vehicle from in- side using the central locking switches. This can be useful, for example, if you want to unlock the passenger door from the in- side or want to lock the vehicle before starting to drive.
  • Page 114 Controls in detail Locking and unlocking If the vehicle was previously centrally locked using the SmartKey or the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO*, it will not unlock using the central locking switch. If the vehicle was previously locked with the central locking switch while in the global remote control mode, the complete vehicle is un- locked when a door is opened from...
  • Page 115: Seats

    Seats For more information on seat adjustment, see “Seat adjustment” ( page 40). Easy-entry/exit feature This feature allows for easier entry into and exit from the vehicle. The easy-entry/exit feature can be activat- ed or deactivated in the Convenience sub- menu of the SETTINGS menu of the control...
  • Page 116 Controls in detail Seats If the current position for the steering wheel is in the uppermost tilt position, the steering wheel will no longer be able to move upward when the easy-entry/exit feature is activated. If the current seat position falls into a factory-set position range and the sys- tem recognizes the current seat posi- tion to be rearward enough for easy...
  • Page 117: Moving The Seats Forward And Backward

    Moving the seats forward and backward You can move the seats forward and back to facilitate loading and unloading. Warning! When moving the seats, be sure that no one can be caught by them. Never place hands under seat or near any moving parts during a seat adjustment procedure.
  • Page 118: Multicontour Backrest* (Standard On Sl 600, Sl 55 Amg, And Sl 65 Amg)

    Controls in detail Seats Multicontour backrest* (standard on SL 600, SL 55 AMG, and SL 65 AMG) The multicontour backrest has inflatable air cushions built into the seat backrest to provide additional lumbar and side sup- port. The seat backrest cushion height and cur- vature can be continuously varied with switches on the lower side of the seat when the ignition is switched on.
  • Page 119: Seat Heating

    Seat heating Vehicles without seat ventilation* The switch is located on the door. 1 Normal heating 2 Rapid heating Switch on the ignition ( page 36). Switching on seat heating Press lower switch position 1. A red indicator lamp on the switch comes on.
  • Page 120 Controls in detail Seats Vehicles with seat ventilation* The switch is located on the door. The red indicator lamps on the switch indicate the selected heating level: Level No indicator lamp on One indicator lamp on Two indicator lamps on 1 Seat heating switch Switch on the ignition ( page 36).
  • Page 121: Seat Ventilation* (Standard On Sl 600 And Sl 65 Amg)

    Seat ventilation* (standard on SL 600 and SL 65 AMG) The switch is located on the door. The blue indicator lamps on the switch indicate the selected ventilation level: Level Three indicator lamps on Two indicator lamps on One indicator lamp on No indicator lamp on 1 Seat ventilation switch Switch on the ignition ( page 36).
  • Page 122: Memory Function

    Controls in detail Memory function Prior to operating the vehicle, the driv- er should check and adjust the seat height, seat position fore and aft, and seat backrest angle if necessary, to en- sure adequate control, reach and com- fort. The head restraint should also be adjusted for proper height.
  • Page 123: Storing Positions Into Memory

    Storing positions into memory Adjust the seats, steering wheel and exterior rear view mirrors to the de- sired position ( page 39). Press memory button M. Release memory button and press a stored position button 1, 2, or 3 within three seconds.
  • Page 124 Controls in detail Memory function 1 Passenger-side exterior rear view mir- 2 Adjustment button M Memory button Stop the vehicle. Switch on the ignition ( page 36). Press button 1 in center console. The passenger-side exterior rear view mirror is selected. Adjust the passenger-side exterior rear view mirror with button 2 so that you see the rear wheel and the road curb.
  • Page 125: Lighting

    Relevant information can be obtained at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Exterior lamp switch The exterior lamp switch is located on the dashboard to the left of the steering wheel.
  • Page 126 Controls in detail Lighting With the SmartKey removed from the starter switch or the engine turned off with KEYLESS-GO* and the driver’s door open, a warning sounds if the parking lamps or the low beam head- lamps are switched on. The message $ Turn off lamps appears in the multifunction display.
  • Page 127 Turn the exterior lamp switch to posi- Daytime running lamp mode tion U. With the SmartKey in starter switch position 1 or the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button pressed once, only the parking lamps will switch on and off automatically. When the engine is running, the low beam headlamps, the tail and parking lamps, the license plate lamps, and the side marker lamps will switch on and...
  • Page 128 Controls in detail Lighting Canada only: The daytime running lamp mode is manda- tory and therefore in a constant mode. When the engine is running and you shift from a driving position to position N or P, the low beam headlamps will switch off with a three-minute delay.
  • Page 129 Fog lamps Warning! In low ambient lighting or foggy conditions, only switch from position U to B with the vehicle at a standstill. Switching from U to B will briefly switch off the head- lamps. Doing so while driving in low ambient lighting conditions may result in an acci- dent.
  • Page 130: Combination Switch

    Controls in detail Lighting Combination switch The combination switch is located on the left of the steering column. Combination switch 1 High beam 2 High beam flasher High beam Turn the exterior lamp switch to B or to U ( page 123). Push the combination switch in direc- tion of arrow 1 to switch on the high beam headlamps.
  • Page 131: Interior Lighting

    Switching on the hazard warning flasher Press hazard warning flasher switch 1. All turn signals are flashing. With the hazard warning flasher acti- vated and the combination switch set for either left or right turn, only the re- spective turn signals will operate when the ignition is switched on.
  • Page 132: Courtesy Lighting

    Controls in detail Lighting Deactivating Slide switch 4 to the right. The interior lighting and the entry/exit lamps remain switched off in darkness, even when you unlock the vehicle open a door remove the SmartKey from the starter switch open the trunk Manual control Switching lamps on Press switch 3.
  • Page 133: Instrument Cluster

    Instrument cluster For a full view illustration of the instrument cluster, see “Instrument cluster” ( page 24). The instrument cluster is activated when open a door switch on the ignition press the reset button ( page 24) switch on the exterior lamps Opening a door will activate the instrument cluster only for about 30 seconds.
  • Page 134: Trip Odometer

    The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature above 248°F (120°C). Doing so may cause serious en- gine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Trip odometer Make sure you are viewing the trip odometer display ( page 134).
  • Page 135: Outside Temperature Indicator

    Outside temperature indicator Warning! The outside temperature indicator is not de- signed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. Indicated temperatures just above the freez- ing point do not guarantee that the road sur- face is free of ice.
  • Page 136: Control System

    Controls in detail Control system The control system is activated as soon as the SmartKey in the starter switch is turned to position 1 or as soon as the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button is in posi- tion 1. The control system enables you to call up information about your vehicle change vehicle settings For example, you can use the control sys-...
  • Page 137: Multifunction Steering Wheel

    Multifunction steering wheel The displays in the multifunction display and the settings in the control system are controlled by the buttons on the multifunc- tion steering wheel. 1 Left multifunction display in the speedometer 2 Right multifunction display in the tachometer Operating the control system 3 Selecting the submenu or setting...
  • Page 138 Controls in detail Control system The individual functions are then found within the relevant menu (radio or CD op- erations under , for example). These AUDIO functions serve to call up relevant informa- tion or to customize the settings for your vehicle.
  • Page 139: Menus

    Menus This is what you will see when you scroll through the menus. Controls in detail Control system The table below provides an overview of the individual menus.
  • Page 140 Controls in detail Control system Menus, submenus and functions Menu 1 Menu 2 Menu 3 Standard dis- AUDIO play ( page 139) ( page 139) ( page 142) ( page 142) ( page 143) Digital speedom- Selecting Activating eter radio station route guidance Calling up main-...
  • Page 141: Standard Display Menu

    Standard display menu The headings used in the menus table You can select the functions in the stan- are designed to facilitate navigation dard display menu with button k or within the system and are not neces- sarily identical to those shown in the The following functions are available: control system displays.
  • Page 142 Controls in detail Control system Select radio station Turn on the radio. Refer to the separate operating instructions. Press button è or ÿ repeatedly until you see the currently tuned sta- tion in the right display. 1 Waveband setting 2 Station frequency Press button k or j repeatedly Select satellite radio station* until the desired station is found.
  • Page 143 Selecting CD track equipment and a subscription to satel- lite radio service provider are required for satellite radio operation. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for details and availability for your vehicle. For more information, refer to separate COMAND operating instructions.
  • Page 144: Nav Menu

    Controls in detail Control system NAV menu menu contains the functions need- ed to operate your navigation system. Press button è or ÿ repeatedly until you see the message in the left multifunction display. The message shown in the multifunction display depends on the status of the navi- gation system: When the navigation system is off, the...
  • Page 145: Menu

    Mercedes-Benz Center to address the malfunction and warning messages ( page 335). Controls in detail Control system Press button è...
  • Page 146: Settings Menu

    Controls in detail Control system Press button k or j. The stored messages will now be dis- played in the order in which they have occurred. For malfunction and warning messages, see “Vehicle status messag- es in the multifunction display” ( page 335).
  • Page 147 The following settings and submenus are available: Function Page Resetting all settings Submenus in the Settings menu 145 Resetting the functions of a sub- menu Instrument cluster submenu Time submenu Lighting submenu Vehicle submenu Convenience submenu Resetting all settings You can reset all the functions of all sub- menus to the factory settings.
  • Page 148 Controls in detail Control system Resetting the functions of a submenu For each submenu you can reset all the functions to the factory settings. Move to a function in the submenu. Press the reset button in the instru- ment cluster for approximately three seconds.
  • Page 149 The table below shows what settings can be changed within the various menus. De- tailed instructions on making individual settings can be found on the following pag- Instrument cluster Time Selecting temperature Synchronizing time with display mode head unit Selecting speedometer Setting the time (hours) display mode Selecting language...
  • Page 150 Controls in detail Control system Instrument cluster submenu Access the Inst. cluster subenu via the Settings menu. Use the Inst. cluster submenu to change the instrument cluster display settings. The following functions are available: Function Page Selecting temperature display mode Selecting speedometer display mode Selecting language...
  • Page 151 Selecting language Move the selection marker with button æ or ç to the Inst. cluster submenu. Press button j or k repeatedly until the message appears in the Text multifunction display. The selection marker is on the current setting. Press æ or ç to select the language to be used for the multifunction display messages.
  • Page 152 Controls in detail Control system Press æ or ç enable or disable this feature. When you set this feature to , the time displayed in the multifunction display is automatically synchronized with the time of the COMAND system For information on setting the time, re- fer to the separate COMAND operating instructions.
  • Page 153 Setting the time (minutes) This function is only available if the func- tion Time sync. with head unit ( page 149) has been set to . The time is then not set automatically by the COMAND and must be set manually if re- quired.
  • Page 154 Controls in detail Control system Lighting submenu Access the Lighting submenu via the Settings menu. Use the Lighting sub- menu to change the lamp and lighting set- tings on your vehicle. The following functions are available: Function Page Setting daytime running lamp mode (USA only) Setting locator lighting Setting night security illumina-...
  • Page 155 In low ambient light conditions the follow- ing lamps will switch on additionally: Parking lamps Tail lamps License plate lamps Side marker lamps For safety reasons, resetting the Lighting submenu to factory settings while driving ( page 146) will not de- activate the daytime running lamp mode.
  • Page 156 Controls in detail Control system Setting night security illumination (Exterior lamps delayed switch-off) Use this function to set whether and for how long you would like the exterior lamps to illuminate during darkness after exiting the vehicle and the doors closed. With the delayed switch-off feature activated and the exterior lamp switch in position U before the engine is turned off, the follow-...
  • Page 157 You can temporarily deactivate the de- layed switch-off feature: Before exiting the vehicle turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 0. Then turn it to position 2 and back to 0. The delayed switch-off feature is deac- tivated. It will reactivate as soon as you reinsert the SmartKey in the starter switch.
  • Page 158 Controls in detail Control system Vehicle submenu Access the Vehicle submenu via the Set- tings menu. Use the Vehicle submenu to make general vehicle settings. The follow- ing functions are available: Function Page Setting automatic locking Tire inflation pressure display Setting automatic locking Use this function to activate or deactivate the automatic central locking.
  • Page 159 Convenience submenu Access the Convenience submenu via the Settings menu. Use the Convenience sub- menu to change the settings for a number of convenience features. The following functions are available: Function Page Activating easy-entry/exit feature Setting key-dependency Setting parking position for exterior rear view mirror Activating easy-entry/exit feature Use this function to activate and deacti-...
  • Page 160 Controls in detail Control system The following settings are available for the easy-entry/exit feature: The easy-entry/ex- it feature is deacti- vated Steer. column Only the steering column is moved Steer.col. +seat Both, the steering column and the seat are moved Setting key-dependency Use this function to set whether the mem- ory settings for the seats, the steering...
  • Page 161: Trip Computer Menu

    The selection marker is on the current Trip computer menu setting. Use the trip computer menu to call up sta- tistical data on your vehicle. The following information is available: Function Fuel consumption statistics after start Press æ or ç to switch function Fuel consumption statistics since last reset Calling up range...
  • Page 162 Controls in detail Control system All statistics stored since the last en- gine start will be reset approximately four hours after the SmartKey in the starter switch is turned to position 0 or removed from the starter switch. Resetting will not occur if you turn the SmartKey back to position 1 or 2 with- in this time period.
  • Page 163: Tel Menu

    Call up range (distance to empty) Press button ÿ or è repeatedly until you see the first function of the Trip computer menu. Press button j or k repeatedly until you see this message in the left display: Range In the right display you will see the cal- culated range based on the current fuel tank level.
  • Page 164 Controls in detail Control system Which messages will appear in the right multifunction display depends on whether your telephone is switched on or off: If the telephone is off, the message in the multifunction display is: TEL Off If the telephone is on: The telephone will then search for a network.
  • Page 165 Press button j or k. The control system reads the phone book which is stored in the telephone. This may take up to 30 seconds. In the right display you will see the message Please wait! When the message dis- Please wait! appears, the phone book has been loaded.
  • Page 166: Automatic Transmission

    Controls in detail Automatic transmission For more information on driving with an automatic transmission see “Automatic transmission” ( page 48). Your vehicle’s transmission adapts its gear shifting process to your individual driving style by continually adjusting the shift points up or down. These shift point adjust- ments are performed based on current operating and driving conditions.
  • Page 167 Avoid spinning of a drive wheel for an extended period when driving off on slippery road surfaces. This may cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. When the gear selector lever is in position D, you can influence transmission...
  • Page 168: One-Touch Gearshifting

    Controls in detail Automatic transmission One-touch gearshifting Even with an automatic transmission you can change the gears manually when the gear selector lever is in position D. Downshifting Briefly press the gear selector lever to the left in the D- direction. The transmission will shift from the current gear to the next lower gear as permitted by the shift program.
  • Page 169: Gear Ranges

    Gear ranges With the gear selector lever in position D, you can limit the transmission’s gear range by pressing the gear selector lever to the left (D-), and reverse the gear range limit by pressing the gear selector lever to the right (D+).
  • Page 170: Gear Selector Lever Position

    Controls in detail Automatic transmission Gear selector lever position Effect ì Park position Gear selector lever position when the vehicle is parked. Place gear selector lever in position P only when vehicle is stopped. The park position is not intended to serve as a brake when the vehicle is parked.
  • Page 171 P that is not covered by the is dangerous. Also, position P alone is not Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. intended to or capable of preventing your vehicle from moving, possibly hitting people or objects.
  • Page 172: Automatic Shift Program

    Controls in detail Automatic transmission Automatic shift program The program mode selector switch is located on the lower part of the center console. 1 Program mode selector switch C Comfort For comfort driving S Sport For standard driving The current gear selector lever position and the selected program mode ( ) are indicated in the right multifunction display...
  • Page 173: Driving Tips

    Driving tips Accelerator position Your driving style influences the transmission’s shifting behavior: Less throttle Earlier upshifting More throttle Later upshifting Kickdown Use kickdown when you want maximum acceleration. Press the accelerator past the point of resistance. The transmission shifts into a lower gear.
  • Page 174: Steering Wheel Gearshift Control (Speedshift)

    Avoid spinning of a drive wheel for an extended period when driving off on slippery road surfaces. This may cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. 1 Button, outside: downshift 2 Button, inside: upshift...
  • Page 175 Downshifting You cannot shift with the steering wheel gearshift buttons when the gear Warning! selector lever is in position P, N or R. On slippery road surfaces, never downshift The last selected program in order to obtain braking action. This could mode (C or S) is switched on when the result in drive wheel slip and reduced engine is restarted.
  • Page 176: Sl 55 Amg And Sl 65 Amg

    Controls in detail Automatic transmission Steering wheel gearshift control SL 55 AMG and SL 65 AMG The steering wheel gearshift buttons are located to the left and right of the steering wheel. 1 Left button: downshift 2 Right button: upshift Downshifting You cannot shift with the steering wheel gearshift buttons when the gear...
  • Page 177: Manual Shift Program Sl 55 Amg And Sl 65 Amg

    Avoid spinning of a drive wheel for an extended period when driving off on slippery road surfaces. This may cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Controls in detail Automatic transmission The program mode selector switch is located on the lower part of the center console.
  • Page 178 Make absolutely certain that the engine speed does not reach the red marking on the tachometer ( page 24). Otherwise the engine could be damaged which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warran-...
  • Page 179: (Limp Home Mode)

    Move gear selector lever to P. Turn off the engine. Wait at least ten seconds before restarting. Restart the engine. Move gear selector lever to position D (for second gear) or R. Have the transmission checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible.
  • Page 180: Good Visibility

    Controls in detail Good visibility For information on windshield wiper opera- tion, see “Windshield wipers” ( page 53). Headlamp cleaning system The switch is located on the left side of the dashboard. 1 Headlamp washer button Switch on the ignition ( page 36). Press button 1.
  • Page 181: Good Visibility

    Warning! The auto-dimming function does not react if incoming light is not aimed directly at sen- sors in the interior rear view mirror. The interior rear view mirror and the exterior rear view mirror on the driver’s side do not react, for example, if the wind screen is in- stalled.
  • Page 182: Sun Visors

    Controls in detail Good visibility Place the gear selector lever in reverse gear R. The passenger-side exterior rear view mirror will be turned downward to the stored position. 1 Driver’s side exterior rear view mirror button 2 Passenger-side exterior rear view mirror button The exterior rear view mirror returns to its previously stored driving position:...
  • Page 183 1 Mounting 2 Mirror cover 3 Mirror lamp 4 Holder for gas cards To use mirror, lift up cover 2. If sunlight enters through a side win- dow, disengage sun visor from mounting 1 and pivot to the side. The mirror lamp 3 will switch off. Controls in detail Good visibility...
  • Page 184: Vehicle Status Message Memory Automatic Climate Control

    Controls in detail Automatic climate control...
  • Page 185 Item 1 Center air vent, adjustable 2 Center air vent, fixed 3 Side defroster vent 4 Side air vent, adjustable 5 Center air vent, adjustable 6 Air volume control for center and side air vents 7 Automatic climate control panel For draft-free ventilation, move the slid- ers for the center air vents to the mid- dle position.
  • Page 186 Controls in detail Automatic climate control The automatic climate control is operation- al whenever the engine is running. You can operate the climate control system in ei- ther the automatic or manual mode. The system cools or heats the interior depend- ing on the selected interior temperature and the current outside temperature.
  • Page 187: Setting The Temperature

    Setting the temperature Use temperature controls 1 and 7 to separately adjust the air temperature on each side of the passenger compartment. You should raise or lower the temperature setting in small increments, preferably starting at 72°F (22°C). When operating the climate control system in automatic mode, you will only rarely need to adjust the tempera- ture, air volume and air distribution.
  • Page 188: Adjusting Air Distribution

    Controls in detail Automatic climate control Adjusting air distribution Use air distribution controls 2 and 6 ( page 183) to separately adjust the air distribution on each side of the passenger compartment. The following symbols are found on the controls: Symbol Function Directs air through the cen-...
  • Page 189: Defrosting Windshield

    Defrosting windshield These settings should only be selected for a short time. Activating Press button P ( page 183). The indicator lamp on the button comes on. Deactivating Press button P ( page 183). The indicator lamp on the button goes out.
  • Page 190 Controls in detail Automatic climate control If you keep button , pressed, the side windows will close. The air recirculation mode is activated automatically at high outside temperatures if the concentration of carbon mon- oxide and nitrogen oxide in the out- side air increases, for example in a tunnel If you have turned off the air condition-...
  • Page 191: Rear Window Defroster

    Rear window defroster The rear window defroster uses a large amount of power. To keep the battery drain to a minimum, switch off the defrost- er as soon as the rear window is clear. The defroster is automatically deactivated af- ter approximately 6 to 17 minutes of oper- ation depending on the outside temperature.
  • Page 192: Residual Heat And Ventilation

    Controls in detail Automatic climate control Residual heat and ventilation With the engine switched off, it is possible to continue to heat or ventilate the interior for up to 30 minutes. This feature makes use of the residual heat produced by the engine.
  • Page 193: Deactivating The Automatic Climate Control System

    Deactivating the automatic climate control system This setting is only recommended when the retractable hardtop is open. Deactivating It is possible to completely deactivate the automatic climate control system. Press button M ( page 183). The indicator lamp on button M comes on.
  • Page 194: Ventilated Storage Compartments

    The air conditioning cannot be turned on again. Have the air conditioning checked at the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Ventilated storage compartments The glove box and the armrest storage compartment have their own air vents that allow for cooling ventilation when the auto- matic climate control system is activated.
  • Page 195: Power Windows

    Power windows Opening and closing the windows The side windows are opened and closed electrically. The switches for all the side windows are on the driver’s door. The switch for the passenger side is on the pas- senger door. 1 Left front and rear windows 2 Right front and rear windows Warning! When closing the windows, make sure that...
  • Page 196 Controls in detail Power windows Opening the windows Press switch 1 or 2 to the resistance point. The corresponding window will move downwards until you release the switch. If the hardtop is open, the respective rear window will open automatically as soon as the front window is completely open.
  • Page 197: Synchronizing Power Windows

    Fully closing the windows (Express-close) Pull switch 1 or 2 past the resis- tance point and release. The corresponding window closes com- pletely. If the upward movement of the window is blocked during the closing procedure, the window will stop and open slightly. Warning Driver’s door only: If within five seconds the switch is again...
  • Page 198: Retractable Hardtop

    Controls in detail Retractable hardtop Opening and closing the retractable hardtop For safety reasons, the retractable hardtop can only be opened and closed when the vehicle is standing still. Warning! Before operating the switch for the retract- able hardtop, make sure there is no danger of anyone being injured by the moving parts (retractable roof, roof frame, and trunk lid) due to inattention.
  • Page 199 Luggage cover The luggage cover is located in the trunk. 1 Handle 2 Holders Closing luggage cover Pull out the luggage cover using handle 1. Hook the luggage cover into left and right side holders 2. Opening luggage cover Unhook luggage cover from side hold- ers.
  • Page 200 Controls in detail Retractable hardtop Pull up on the hardtop switch as indi- cated by the arrow until the hardtop is completely lowered into its trunk stor- age compartment and the indicator lamp in the hardtop switch goes out. The multifunction display will briefly show the message Retractable roof Open Be sure that the roof is dry before you...
  • Page 201 Locking the retractable hardtop after raising/lowering Warning! The hardtop is not fully closed and locked or not fully opened and locked if: the indicator light in the hardtop switch remains lit the message K in operation is shown in the multifunction display and the indicator lamp in the hardtop switch does not go out the indicator lamp flashes and a warning...
  • Page 202 Controls in detail Retractable hardtop Warning! If the retractable hardtop does not com- pletely open or close, the roof hydraulics will lose pressure and the retractable hardtop is lowered after approximately seven minutes when the ignition is switched on after approximately 15 seconds when the ignition is switched off Shortly before the hardtop is lowered, a warning will sound and the hardtop switch...
  • Page 203 Properly lock the retractable hardtop ( page 199) before continuing to drive. If the indicator lamp continues to flash af- ter you have carried out the above actions, there is a malfunction. Have the retractable hardtop system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
  • Page 204 ( page 199) before continuing to drive. The retractable hardtop will not lock There is a malfunction in the retractable hardtop system. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Wind screen Warning! The wind screen can restrict the driver’s vi- sion to the rear of the vehicle. To prevent a possible accident when visibility is limited (e.g.
  • Page 205 2 Buckle Guide the fastening straps around the top of the roll bar and close buckles 2. Tighten the fastening straps if neces- sary. Lower the roll bar. Fold the upper section of the wind screen up towards the head restraints until it stops.
  • Page 206 Controls in detail Retractable hardtop 1 Stop buttons 2 Handle Opening Squeeze stop buttons 1 and guide the sunshade towards the rear. Closing Using handle 2, slide the sunshade towards the front of the vehicle.
  • Page 207: Driving Systems

    Driving systems The driving systems of your vehicle are de- scribed on the following pages: Cruise control and Distronic*, with which the vehicle can maintain a preset speed ABC with vehicle level control systems, with which you can change vehicle sus- pension characteristics Parktronic*, which assists the driver during parking maneuvers...
  • Page 208 Controls in detail Driving systems 1 Set current or higher speed 2 Set current or lower speed 3 Cancel cruise control 4 Resume at last set speed Warning Cruise control brakes automatically so that the set speed is not exceeded. Keep in mind that cruise control is a conve- nience system designed to assist the driver during vehicle operation.
  • Page 209 The cruise control switches off auto- matically if you step on the brake pedal you depress the parking brake pedal The cruise control also switches off au- tomatically when the vehicle speed is below 25 mph (40 km/h) the ESP is in operation or switched off with the ESP switch ( page 83) you move the gear selector lever to position N while driving...
  • Page 210: Distronic

    Controls in detail Driving systems Fine adjustment in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments Faster Briefly tip the cruise control lever in direction of arrow 1 ( page 206). Slower Briefly tip the cruise control lever in direction of arrow 2 ( page 206). Setting to last stored speed (“Resume”...
  • Page 211 It is the driver’s responsibility at all times to be attentive to road, weather and traffic con- ditions and to provide the steering, braking and other driving inputs necessary to retain control of the vehicle. Warning! Distronic is a convenience system, its speed adjustment reduction capability is intended to make cruise control more effective and usable when traffic speeds vary.
  • Page 212 Controls in detail Driving systems Warning! Use of Distronic can be dangerous on slip- pery roads. Rapid changes in tire traction can result in wheel spin and loss of control. Distronic does not act upon adverse sight distance conditions. Do not use Distronic during conditions of fog and heavy rain, snow or sleet.
  • Page 213 1 Red DTR warning lamp E Warning! An intermittent warning sounds and the DTR warning lamp (red) E in the speed- ometer dial is illuminated if the Distronic system calculates that the distance to the vehicle ahead and your vehicle’s current speed indicate that Distronic will not be ca- pable of slowing the vehicle sufficiently to maintain the preset following distance,...
  • Page 214 Controls in detail Driving systems Distronic menu in the control system In the Distronic menu you can read the cur- rent settings for Distronic. What appears in the left multifunction display depends on whether the Distronic is turned on or off. Press button è...
  • Page 215 Cruise control lever The Distronic system is operated by means of the cruise control lever. The cruise control lever is the uppermost lever found on the left-hand side of the steering column. 1 Set current or higher speed 2 Set current or lower speed 3 Deactivate Distronic 4 Resume at last set speed Activating Distronic...
  • Page 216 Controls in detail Driving systems Setting the current speed Accelerate or decelerate to the desired speed. Briefly lift or depress the cruise control lever. The current speed is set. Remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. If you do not take your foot off of the accelerator completely, the following message will appear in the speedome- ter display field:...
  • Page 217 Setting to last stored speed (“Resume” function) Warning! The speed stored in memory should only be set again if prevailing road conditions per- mit. Possible acceleration or deceleration differences arising from returning to the pre- set speed could endanger yourself and oth- ers.
  • Page 218 Controls in detail Driving systems Setting the following distance in Distronic You can set the specified following for Dis- tronic by varying the time setting between 1.0 and 2.0 seconds. Using this time set- ting and the current speed of your vehicle, Distronic calculates and sets the required following distance to the vehicle ahead.
  • Page 219 When pressing the brake pedal, the warn- ing sound ceases. The warning sound will also cease, when the distance to the vehi- cle ahead is sufficient again without apply- ing the brakes. In this case, the distance warning lamp will also go out. Warning! If the DTR warning lamp (red) E in the speedometer dial comes on while driving...
  • Page 220 Controls in detail Driving systems Distronic regulates only the distance be- tween your vehicle and those directly ahead of it, but does not register stationary objects in the road, e.g.: a stopped vehicle in a traffic jam a disabled vehicle an oncoming vehicle The driver must always be on the alert, ob- serve all traffic and intercede as required by...
  • Page 221 Offset driving A vehicle traveling in your lane but offset from your direct line of travel may not be detected by Distronic. There will be insuffi- cient distance to the vehicle ahead. Lane changing Distronic has not yet detected the vehicle changing lanes.
  • Page 222: Active Body Control (Abc)

    Controls in detail Driving systems Active Body Control (ABC) The ABC system automatically selects the optimum suspension tuning and ride height for your vehicle. Suspension tuning The suspension tuning is set according to: Your driving style Road surface conditions The vehicle loading Your choice of suspension style, “sporty”...
  • Page 223 Vehicle level control Your vehicle automatically adjusts its ride height to: reduce fuel consumption increase vehicle safety The vehicle chassis ride height is raised or lowered according to the selected level setting and to the vehicle speed: With increasing speed, ride height is re- duced by up to approximately one inch (25 mm).
  • Page 224 Controls in detail Driving systems The following vehicle level settings can be selected when the vehicle is stationary: Vehicle level when Use for stationary Normal Normal operation Level 1 Driving with snow chains ( page 310) Level 2 Very rough road surface conditions Dependent on loading The switch and the indicator lamps are lo-...
  • Page 225: Parktronic* (Parking Assist)

    Parktronic* (Parking assist) Warning! Parktronic is a supplemental system. It is not intended to, nor does it replace, the need for extreme care. The responsibility during parking and other critical maneuvers always rests with the driver. Special attention must be paid to objects with smooth surfaces or low silhouettes (e.g.
  • Page 226 Controls in detail Driving systems Range of the sensors To function properly, the sensors must be free of dirt, ice snow and slush. Clean the sensors regularly, being careful not to scratch or damage the sensors, see “Cleaning the Parktronic system* sensors” ( page 318).
  • Page 227 Minimum distance Center approx. 8 in (20 cm) Corners approx. 6 in (15 cm) If the system detects an obstacle in this range, all the distance warning segments illuminate and you hear a warning signal. If the obstacle is closer than the minimum distance, the actual distance may no long- er be indicated by the system.
  • Page 228 Controls in detail Driving systems As your vehicle approaches an object, one or more distance segments will illuminate, depending on the distance. When the eighth distance segment illuminates, you have reached the minimum distance. Front area: An intermittent acoustic warning will sound as the first red dis- tance segment illuminates and a con- stant acoustic warning lasting a maximum of two seconds will sound for...
  • Page 229 20 seconds and the indica- tor lamp in the Parktronic switch comes Have the Parktronic system checked by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. If only the red distance segments illumi- nate and no warning sounds, the Parktron-...
  • Page 230: Useful Features

    Controls in detail Useful features Storage compartments Warning! To help avoid personal injury during a colli- sion or sudden maneuver, exercise care when stowing objects in the vehicle. Put lug- gage or cargo in the trunk if possible. Do not pile luggage or cargo higher than the seat backs.
  • Page 231 Warning! In order to help prevent spilling liquids on vehicle occupants, only use containers that fit into the cup holder. Use lids on open con- tainers and do not fill containers to a height where the contents, especially hot liquids, could spill during braking, vehicle maneu- vers, or in an accident.
  • Page 232 Controls in detail Useful features Opening storage tray Press button 1 and lift up the armrest. Opening storage compartment Press button 2 and lift the armrest. Locking the storage compartments The storage compartments are centrally locked when you lock the vehicle from the outside.
  • Page 233 Insert the mechanical key into the Unlocking the storage compartments glove box lock and turn it to separately position 3. The following storage compartments will be locked. They can then not be opened with the SmartKey or with the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO*: Glove box Parcel net in passenger footwell Armrest storage compartments...
  • Page 234 Controls in detail Useful features Luggage compartment in the rear Warning! Secure all pieces of luggage in the rear with the luggage straps. Unsecured pieces of lug- gage can otherwise cause injury during a braking maneuver and can increase the risk of injury in an accident.
  • Page 235: Ashtray

    Ashtray 1 Cover plate 2 Sliding knob Opening ashtray Briefly touch cover plate 1. The ashtray opens automatically. Removing the ashtray insert Warning! Remove ashtray only with vehicle standing still. Set the parking brake to secure vehicle from movement. Move gear selector lever to position N.
  • Page 236: Heated Steering Wheel

    Controls in detail Useful features Warning! Never touch the heating element or sides of the lighter; they are extremely hot. Hold the knob only. When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey or the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle.
  • Page 237: Load Assist In The Trunk

    Load assist in the trunk To facilitate trunk loading after opening the lid, use the load assist feature to raise the retracted hardtop from its storage position in the trunk. 1 Retracted hardtop 2 Luggage cover 3 Load assist button Raising the hardtop Warning! To prevent injuries, make sure that there is...
  • Page 238: Electrical Outlet

    The external antenna must be approved by Mercedes-Benz. Please contact an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center for informa- tion on the installation of an approved external antenna. Refer to the radio trans- mitter operation instructions regarding use of an external antenna.
  • Page 239: Tele Aid

    Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of 44 feet (approximately 14 m) every second. You can take and place telephone calls us- ing the í and ì buttons on the steering wheel.
  • Page 240 If a malfunction is indicated as outlined above, the system may not operate as ex- pected. Have the system checked at the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible...
  • Page 241 Emergency calls An emergency call is initiated automatically following an accident in which the emergency tensioning devices (ETDs) or airbags deploy. An emergency call can also be initiated manually by opening the cover next to the interior rear view mirror labeled SOS, then briefly pressing the button located under the cover.
  • Page 242 The Roadside Assistance button • is located below the center armrest cover. Press and hold the button (for longer than two seconds) A call to a Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance dispatcher will be initiated. The button will flash while the call is in progress. The message...
  • Page 243 Describe the nature of the need for as- sistance. The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance dispatcher will either dispatch a qualified Mercedes-Benz technician or arrange to tow your vehicle to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. For services such as labor and/or towing, charges may ap- ply.
  • Page 244 Assistance Center representative and the occupants of the vehicle will be estab- lished. Information regarding the operation of your vehicle, the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or Mercedes-Benz USA products and services is available to you. For more details concerning the Tele Aid system, please visit www.mbusa.com and...
  • Page 245 Tele Aid system has detected a malfunction or the service is currently not active, and may not initiate a call. Visit your Mercedes-Benz Center and have the system checked or contact the Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada) as soon as possible.
  • Page 246 Internet using the ID and password sent to you shortly after the completion of your acquaintance call. Contact the Mercedes-Benz Response Center at 1-800-756-9018 (in the USA) or 1-888-923-8367 (in Canada). You will be asked to provide your pass- word which you provided when you completed the subscriber agreement.
  • Page 247 Report the incident to the police The police will issue a numbered incident report. Pass this number on to the Mercedes-Benz Response Center along with your password issued to you when you subscribed to the service. The Response Center will then attempt to covertly contact the vehicle’s Tele...
  • Page 248: Garage Door Opener

    Controls in detail Useful features Garage door opener The built-in remote control is capable of operating up to three separately controlled devices, for example garage door openers, gate openers, or other devices compatible ® with HomeLink or some other systems. You can program the signal transmitter buttons.
  • Page 249 If you should experience diffi- culties with programming the transmit- ter, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, or call Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA only) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.
  • Page 250 Controls in detail Useful features Programming or reprogramming the in- tegrated remote control Step 1: Switch on the ignition ( page 36). Step 2: If you have previously programmed an integrated signal transmitter button and wish to retain its programming, proceed to step 3.
  • Page 251 If the indicator lamp 1 blinks rapidly for about two seconds and then turns to a constant light, continue with pro- gramming steps 8 through 12 as your garage door opener may be equipped with the “rolling code” feature. Step 7: To program the remaining two buttons, repeat the steps above starting with step 3.
  • Page 252 Controls in detail Useful features Step 13: To program the remaining two buttons, repeat the steps above starting with step 3. Gate operator/Canadian programming Canadian radio-frequency laws require transmitter signals to “time-out” (or quit) after several seconds of transmission which may not be long enough for the inte- grated signal transmitter to pick up the sig- nal during programming.
  • Page 253 If you sell your vehicle, erase the codes of all three channels. Reprogramming a single integrated signal transmitter button To program a device using a signal trans- mitter button previously trained, follow these steps: Press and hold the desired signal trans- mitter button (2, 3 or 4).
  • Page 255: Operation

    Operation The first 1000 miles (1500 km) Driving instructions At the gas station Engine compartment Tires and wheels Winter driving Maintenance Vehicle care...
  • Page 256: The First 1000 Miles (1500 Km)

    Operation The first 1000 miles (1500 km) In the “Operation” section you will find de- tailed information on operating, maintain- ing and caring for your vehicle. The more cautiously you treat your vehicle during the break-in period, the more satis- fied you will be with its performance later Drive your vehicle during the first 1000 miles (1500 km) at varying but...
  • Page 257: Driving Instructions

    Maintenance Booklet and as required by the maintenance system. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Fuel consumption is also increased by driv- ing in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic, on short trips and in hilly area.
  • Page 258: Power Assistance

    Operation Driving instructions Power assistance Warning! The brake system requires electrical energy for operation. A malfunction in the vehicle’s power supply or electrical system may impair brake sys- tem operation and switch it into its emer- gency operation mode. In such a case, the red brake warning lamp ( page 326) and warning messages ( page 335) in the in- strument cluster come on while driving.
  • Page 259 Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Only install brake pads and brake fluid rec- ommended by Mercedes-Benz. Warning! If other than recommended brake pads are installed, or other than recommended brake fluid is used, the braking properties of the vehicle can be degraded to an extent that safe braking is substantially impaired.
  • Page 260: Driving Off

    ESP switched off. Doing so may cause serious damage to the drivetrain which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Simultaneously depressing the acceler- ator pedal and applying the brake re- duces engine performance and causes...
  • Page 261: Parking

    In addition, appear unsafe, have it towed to the nearest move gear selector lever to position P. Mercedes-Benz Center or tire dealer for re- When parking on hills, turn front wheels pairs. towards the road curb.
  • Page 262: Hydroplaning

    Operation Driving instructions The treadwear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread. Warning! Although the applicable federal motor vehi- cle safety laws consider a tire to be worn when the treadwear indicators (TWI) be- come visible at approximately (1.6 mm), we recommend that you do not al- low your tires to wear down to that level.
  • Page 263: Tire Traction

    If ice has formed on the road, tire traction will be substantially reduced. Under such weather conditions, drive, steer and brake with extreme caution. Mercedes-Benz recommends M+S rated radial-ply tires with a minimum tread depth of approximately in (4 mm) on all four wheels for the winter season to ensure normal balanced handling characteristics.
  • Page 264: Winter Driving Instructions

    Operation Driving instructions SL 500 SL 500 with Sport Package* Your vehicle is factory equipped with “W”-rated tires, which have a speed rating of 168 mph (270 km/h). An electronic speed limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding a speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
  • Page 265: Standing Water

    Any such dam- age is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
  • Page 266: Passenger Compartment

    The trunk is the preferred place to carry ob- jects. Driving abroad Abroad, there is an extensive Mercedes-Benz service network at your disposal. If you plan to drive into areas which are not listed in the index of your Mercedes-Benz Center directory, you should request pertinent information from an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
  • Page 267: Catalytic Converter

    Catalytic converter Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with monolithic-type catalytic converters, an important element in conjunction with the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial con- trol of the pollutants in the exhaust emis- sions. Keep your vehicle in proper operating condition by following our rec- ommended maintenance instructions as outlined in your Maintenance Booklet.
  • Page 268: Coolant Temperature

    The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature over 248°F (120°C). Doing so may cause serious en- gine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Warning! Driving when your engine is badly over- heated can cause some fluids, which may have leaked into the engine com- partment, to catch fire.
  • Page 269: At The Gas Station

    At the gas station Refuelling Warning! Gasoline is highly flammable and poisonous. It burns violently and can cause serious injury. Whenever you are around gasoline, avoid inhaling fumes and skin contact, extinguish all smoking materials. Never allow sparks, flame or smoking materials near gasoline! The fuel filler flap is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle towards the...
  • Page 270 Operation At the gas station Warning! Overfilling of the fuel tank may create pres- sure in the system which could cause a gas discharge. This could cause the gas to spray back out when removing the fuel pump noz- zle, which could cause personal injury. Replace the fuel cap by turning it to the right.
  • Page 271: Check Regularly And Before A Long Trip

    Noti- fy an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immediately. Do not add brake fluid as this will not solve the problem. For more information, see the “Practical hints”...
  • Page 272: Engine Compartment

    Operation Engine compartment Hood Warning! Do not pull the release lever while the vehi- cle is in motion. Otherwise the hood could be forced open by passing air flow. Opening 1 Hood release Pull lever 1 downwards. The hood is unlocked. To avoid damage to the windshield wip- ers or hood, never open the hood if the wiper arms are folded forward away...
  • Page 273 Warning! If you see flames or smoke coming from the engine compartment, or if the coolant tem- perature gauge indicates that the engine is overheated, do not open the hood. Move away from the vehicle and do not open the hood until the engine has cooled.
  • Page 274: Engine Oil

    Do not use any special lubricant addi- tives, as these may damage the drive assemblies. Using special additives not approved by Mercedes-Benz may cause damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. More information on this subject is available at any Mercedes-Benz Center.
  • Page 275 One of the following messages will subsequently appear in the right multi- For adding engine oil see ( page 274). function display: For more information on engine oil, see the Engine oil level “Technical data” section ( page 431) and ( page 433).
  • Page 276 Mercedes-Benz Center Excess oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. For more information on messages in the display concerning engine oil, see the “Practical hints”...
  • Page 277: Transmission Fluid Level

    Excess oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Screw filler cap 1 back on filler neck. For more information on engine oil, see the “Technical data”...
  • Page 278: Coolant

    Operation Engine compartment Coolant Warning! In order to avoid any possibly serious burns: Use extreme caution when opening the hood if there are any signs of steam or coolant leaking from the cooling system, or if the coolant temperature gauge indi- cates that the coolant is overheated.
  • Page 279: Battery

    When replacing batteries, always use bat- teries approved by Mercedes-Benz. If you do not intend to operate your vehicle for an extended period of time, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center about steps you need to observe.
  • Page 280: Windshield Washer System And Headlamp Cleaning System

    Operation Engine compartment Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system The windshield washer reservoir is located in the engine compartment. 1 Washer fluid reservoir Fluid for the windshield washer system and the headlamp cleaning system is supplied from the windshield washer reservoir. It has a capacity of approx.
  • Page 281: Tires And Wheels

    When replacing rims, only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the particular rim type. Failure to do so can result in the bolts loosening and possibly an accident.
  • Page 282: Tire Care And Maintenance

    Operation Tires and wheels Tire care and maintenance Warning! Regularly check the tires for damage. Dam- aged tires can cause tire inflation pressure loss. As a result, you could lose control of your vehicle. Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage, replace them.
  • Page 283 Tread depth Do not allow your tires to wear down too far. Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply reduced at tread depths under ⁄ in (3 mm). Tread wear indicators (TWI) are required by law. These indicators are located in six places on the tread circumference and become visible at a tread depth of approx- imately...
  • Page 284: Direction Of Rotation

    Operation Tires and wheels Direction of rotation Unidirectional tires offer added advan- tages, such as better hydroplaning perfor- mance. To benefit, however, you must make sure the tires rotate in the direction specified. An arrow on the sidewall indicates the intended direction of rotation (spinning) of the tire.
  • Page 285 1 Driver’s door B-pillar Following is a discussion on how to work with the information contained on the two placards with regards to loading your vehi- cle. Tire and Loading Information Warning! Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit or vehicle capacity weight as indicated on the placard on the driver’s door B-pillar.
  • Page 286 Operation Tires and wheels Placard (Example B) 1 Load limit information on the Vehicle Tire Information placard The placard showing the load limit informa- tion is located on the driver’s door B-pillar. If your vehicle is equipped with the Vehicle Tire Information placard (Example B), locate the heading “Vehicle Capacity Weight”...
  • Page 287 Steps for determining correct load limit The following steps have been developed as required of all manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”. Step 1 (Vehicles equipped with placard Example A) Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should...
  • Page 288 Operation Tires and wheels Example Combined Number of Seating weight limit occupants configura- of occu- (driver and tion pants and passengers) cargo from placard 1500 lbs front: 2 rear: 3 1500 lbs front: 1 rear: 2 1500 lbs front:1 The higher the weight of all occupants, the less cargo and luggage load capacity is available.
  • Page 289 The tongue load typically is ten percent of the trailer weight and every- thing loaded in it. Your Mercedes-Benz has been designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. Mercedes-Benz does not recom- mend trailer towing with your vehicle.
  • Page 290: Recommended Tire Inflation Pressure

    Operation Tires and wheels Recommended tire inflation pressure Warning! Follow recommended tire inflation pressures. Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being over- heated. Do not overinflate tires.
  • Page 291 Placard (Example B) 1 Vehicle Tire Information placard with recommended cold tire inflation pressures Placard (Example B) lists the recommend- ed cold tire inflation pressures for maxi- mum loaded vehicle weight. The tire inflation pressures listed apply to the tires installed as original equipment.
  • Page 292: Checking Tire Inflation Pressure

    Operation Tires and wheels Checking tire inflation pressure Regularly check your tire inflation pressure at least once a month. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold. The tires can be considered cold if the vehicle has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than one mile (1.6 km).
  • Page 293 After you have reactivated the tire infla- tion pressure monitor, the current tire inflation pressures will only be shown after a few minutes driving time. During this time, you will see the following message in the display: Tire pressure displayed only after driving a few minutes Possible differences between the...
  • Page 294 Operation Tires and wheels The recommended tire inflation pres- sures for your vehicle can be found on the tire placard located on the driver’s door B-pillar. The tire inflation pres- sures are not listed in the owner’s man- ual. Warning! The tire inflation pressure monitor does not indicate a warning for wrongly selected tire inflation pressures.
  • Page 295 Reactivating the tire inflation pressure monitor The tire inflation pressure monitor must be reactivated in the following situations: If you have changed the tire inflation pressure If you have replaced the wheels or tires If you have installed new wheels or tires Using the tire placard on the driver’s door B-pillar or, if available, the inside...
  • Page 296 Operation Tires and wheels If you wish to cancel activation: Press the ç button. If one of the following messages appears in the multifunction display: Reactivate tire pressure monitor after rectifying pressure Tire pressure Please rectify Check the tire inflation pressures and correct them if necessary.
  • Page 297: Tire Labeling

    Tire labeling Besides tire name (sales designation) and manufacturer name, a number of markings can be found on a tire. Following are some explanations for the markings on your vehicle’s tires: 1 Uniform Quality Grading Standards ( page 302) 2 DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN) ( page 300) 3 Maximum tire load ( page 301) 4 Maximum tire inflation pressure...
  • Page 298 Operation Tires and wheels General: Depending on the design standards used, the tire size molded into the sidewall may have no letter or a letter preceding the tire size designation. No letter preceding the size designation (as illustrated above): Passenger car tire based on European design standards.
  • Page 299 Warning The tire load rating must always be at least half of the GAWR ( page 305) of your vehi- cle. Otherwise, tire failure may be the result which may cause an accident and/or seri- ous personal injury to you or others. Always replace rims and tires with the same designation, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part.
  • Page 300 Operation Tires and wheels Summer tires Index Speed rating up to 100 mph (160 km/h) up to 106 mph (170 km/h) up to 112 mph (180 km/h) up to 118 mph (190 km/h) up to 130 mph (210 km/h) up to 149 mph (240 km/h) up to 168 mph (270 km/h) up to 186 mph (300 km/h) above 186 mph (300 km/h)
  • Page 301: Load Identification

    All-season and winter tires Index Speed rating Q M+S up to 100 mph (160 km/h) T M+S up to 118 mph (190 km/h) H M+S up to 130 mph (210 km/h) V M+S up to 149 mph (240 km/h) The marking “M+S” next to the service description designates tires with mud and snow capabilities.
  • Page 302: Dot, Tire Identification Number (Tin)

    Operation Tires and wheels DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN) U.S. tire regulations require each new tire manufacturer or tire retreader to mold a TIN into or onto a sidewall of each tire produced. The TIN is a unique identifier which facili- tates efforts by tire manufactures to notify purchasers in recall situations or other safety matters concerning tires and gives...
  • Page 303: Maximum Tire Load

    Tire type code The code 4 ( page 300) may, at the option of the manufacturer, be used as a descriptive code for identifying significant characteristics of the tire. Date of manufacture The date of manufacture 5 ( page 300) identifies the week and year of manufac- ture.
  • Page 304: Maximum Tire Inflation Pressure

    Operation Tires and wheels Maximum tire inflation pressure 1 Maximum permissible tire inflation pressure For illustration purposes only. Actual data on tires is specific to each vehicle and may vary from data shown in above illustration. This is the maximum permissible tire inflation pressure for the tire.
  • Page 305 Quality grades can be found, where appli- cable, on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: Treadwear Traction Temperature All passenger car tires must conform to federal safety requirements in addition to these grades. Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rat- ing based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a...
  • Page 306: Tire Ply Material

    Operation Tires and wheels Temperature The temperature grades are A (the high- est), B, and C, representing the tire’s resis- tance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
  • Page 307: Tire And Loading Terminology

    Tire and loading terminology Accessory weight The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory-installed equipment (whether installed or not).
  • Page 308 Operation Tires and wheels GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) This is the maximum permissible vehicle weight of the fully loaded vehicle (weight of the vehicle including all options, passen- gers, fuel, and cargo and, if applicable, trailer tongue load). It is indicated on certification label located on the driver’s door B-pillar.
  • Page 309 TIN (Tire Identification Number) Unique identifier which facilitates efforts by tire manufacturers to notify purchasers in recall situations or other safety matters concerning tires and gives purchases the means to easily identify such tires. The TIN is comprised of “Manufacturer’s identifica- tion mark”, “Tire size”, “Tire type code”...
  • Page 310: Rotating Tires

    Wheels could become loose if not tightened with a torque of 96 lb-ft (130 Nm). Only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for your vehicle’s rims. For information on wheel change, see the “Practical hints” section ( page 372) and...
  • Page 311: Winter Driving

    Winter driving Before the onset of winter, have your vehi- cle winterized at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. This service in- cludes: Check of anticorrosion and antifreeze concentration. Addition of cleaning concentrate to the water of the windshield and headlamp cleaning system. Add MB Concentrate “S”...
  • Page 312: Block Heater (Canada Only)

    Such no- tices are available at your tire dealer or any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Warning! If you use your spare tire when winter tires...
  • Page 313 Follow the manufac- turer's mounting instructions. Only use snow chains that are ap- proved by Mercedes-Benz. Your autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to advise you on this subject. Use of snow chains may be prohibited depending on location.
  • Page 314: Maintenance

    Operation Maintenance We strongly recommend that you have your vehicle serviced by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, in accordance with the Maintenance Booklet at the times called for by the maintenance service indi- cator display. Failure to have the vehicle maintained in...
  • Page 315: Clearing The Maintenance Service Indicator

    Service A exceeded by xx days Service A exceeded by xx miles (km) In addition, a signal sounds when the mes- sage appears. Any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will reset the maintenance service indicator following a completed maintenance ser- vice. Operation...
  • Page 316: Resetting The Maintenance Service Indicator

    In the event that the maintenance service on your vehicle is not carried out by an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center, you can have the maintenance service indicator re- set. The automotive maintenance facility carrying out the maintenance service will...
  • Page 317: Vehicle Care

    Post-production treatment is neither necessary nor recommended by Mercedes-Benz because of the possibility of incompatibility between materials used in the production process and others ap- plied later.
  • Page 318 We have selected car-care products and compiled recommendations which are specially matched to our vehicles and which always reflect the latest technology. You can obtain Mercedes-Benz approved car-care products at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Scratches, corrosive deposits, corrosion or damage due to negligent or incorrect care cannot always be removed or repaired with the car-care products recommended here.
  • Page 319 Vehicle washing Do not use hot water or wash your vehicle in direct sunlight. Only use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz ap- proved Car Shampoo. Thoroughly spray the vehicle with a dif- fused jet of water. Direct only a very weak spray towards the ventilation intake.
  • Page 320 Cleaning the Distronic* system sensor cover 1 Distronic* system sensor cover Use a mild car wash detergent, such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car Sham- poo, with plenty of water to clean sen- sor cover 1. To prevent scratches, never apply strong force and use only a soft, non-scratchy cloth when cleaning the sensor cover.
  • Page 321 Warning! For safety reasons, switch off wipers and re- move SmartKey from starter switch (vehi- cles with KEYLESS-GO*: Make sure the vehicle’s on-board electronics have status 0) before cleaning the wiper blades. Otherwise the wiper motor could suddenly turn on and cause injury. Clean the wiper blade inserts with a clean cloth and detergent solution.
  • Page 322 If possible, clean wheels once a week with Mercedes-Benz approved Wheel Care, us- ing a soft bristle brush and a strong spray of water. Follow the instructions on container.
  • Page 323 Leather upholstery Wipe leather upholstery with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly or clean with Mercedes-Benz approved Leather Care. Exercise particular care when cleaning per- forated leather as its underside should not become wet. Plastic and rubber parts Do not use oil or wax on these parts.
  • Page 325: Practical Hints

    Practical hints What to do if … Where will I find ...? Locking/unlocking in an emergency Replacing bulbs Replacing wiper blades Flat tire Batteries Jump starting Towing the vehicle Fuses...
  • Page 326: What To Do If

    Switch the ESP back on ( page 84). If the ESP cannot be switched back on, have the system checked at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. When driving off, apply as little throt- tle as possible.
  • Page 327 Continue driving with added caution. Wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability. Have the system checked at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. Failure to follow these instructions in- creases the risk of an accident.
  • Page 328 Read and observe messages in the display ( page 335). Risk of accident! Carefully stop the vehicle and notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not add brake fluid! This will not solve the problem. If you find that the brake fluid in the...
  • Page 329 Check the fuel cap ( page 267). If it is not closed properly: Close the fuel cap. If it is closed properly: Have the fuel system checked by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
  • Page 330 Have the cooling system checked. If the coolant temperature is below 248°F (120°C), you can continue driving to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Avoid high engine loads (e.g. driving uphill) and stop-and-go driving. Stop as soon as possible and allow...
  • Page 331 Practical hints What to do if … Warning! Driving when your engine is badly overheat- ed can cause some fluids which may have leaked into the engine compartment to catch fire. You could be seriously burned. Steam from an overheated engine can cause serious burns and can occur just by opening the engine hood.
  • Page 332 Practical hints What to do if … Problem The red DTR indicator lamp comes on while driving and you hear a warning sound. The white DTR indicator lamp comes on while driving. The yellow fuel tank reserve warning lamp lights while driv- ing.
  • Page 333 What to do if … Suggested solution For safety reasons, always have the roll bar raised when driving with the retractable hardtop open. Attempt to raise the roll bar manually. Have the roll bar checked by an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
  • Page 334 SRS may not be operational. For your safety, we strongly recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center immedi- ately to have the system checked; otherwise the SRS may not be activated when needed in an accident, which could result in serious...
  • Page 335 Problem The yellow warning lamp for the tire pressure monitoring system comes on. Warning! When the tire pressure monitoring system warning light is lit, one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as possi- ble, and inflate them to the proper pressure as indicated on the vehicle’s tire information placard.
  • Page 336: Airbag Off Indicator Lamp

    The system is malfunctioning. Suggested solution Have the system checked at an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. Make sure there is nothing between seat cushion and child seat. Check installation of the child seat.
  • Page 337: Vehicle Status Messages In The Multifunction Display

    Mercedes-Benz Center. Failure to repair condition noted may cause damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty, or result in property dam- age or personal injury. Warning!
  • Page 338 Practical hints What to do if … Switching on the ignition causes all in- strument cluster lamps (except high beam headlamp indicator lamp and turn signal indicator lamps unless acti- vated) as well as the multifunction dis- play to come on. Make sure the lamps and the multifunction display are in working order before starting your jour- ney.
  • Page 339 The capability of the ABC system is re- Do not exceed a speed of 50 mph stricted. This can impair handling. (80 km/h). Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. The vehicle is losing oil. Stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
  • Page 340 Possible cause Possible solution The ABC display or the ABC system it- Visit an authorized self is malfunctioning. Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. The capability of the ABC system is re- Do not exceed a speed of 50 mph stricted.
  • Page 341 Wheels may lock during hard braking, reducing steering capability. Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of an accident. Cruise control or Distronic* is mal- Have the cruise control or Distronic* functioning.
  • Page 342 Distronic* cover while driving. You can then operate Distronic* as usual again. Distronic* is malfunctioning or the dis- Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center play is malfunctioning. as soon as possible. The ESP has detected a malfunction Continue driving with added caution.
  • Page 343 The ESP or the ESP display is malfunc- Continue driving with added caution. tioning. Have the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. Failure to follow these instructions increases the risk of accident. The ESP is deactivated because the Synchronize the ESP.
  • Page 344 Practical hints What to do if … Left display Right display Gear selector lever to P Possible cause Possible solution You have tried to start the engine with Place the gear selector lever in position P. the KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button with the gear selector lever not in P.
  • Page 345 Left display Right display Tire pres. monitor reactivated Tire pressure displayed only after driving a few minutes Tire pres. temporarily monitor unavailable Possible cause Possible solution The tire pressure monitoring system is using the current pressure values as the basis for monitoring. The tire inflation pressure is being checked.
  • Page 346 The tire inflation pressure monitor is Have the tire inflation pressure monitor malfunctioning. checked by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. A wheel without proper sensor was in- Have the wheel checked. stalled.
  • Page 347 The SBC brake system requires braking responsiveness. electrical energy and therefore has only limited operation. Consider- Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. ably greater brake pedal force is re- quired and the stopping distance is increased. The battery is no longer charging.
  • Page 348 There is a malfunction in the elec- Have the system checked at an authorized tronic system. Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. The consumer battery has insuffi- The electrical consumers will come back online cient voltage and can no longer sup- as soon as on-board voltage is sufficient.
  • Page 349 Do not drive any further. gency operation mode. Consider- Stop the vehicle and notify an authorized ably greater brake pedal force is Mercedes-Benz Center. required and the stopping distance Prevent the vehicle from rolling away by is increased. blocking the wheels with wheel chocks or oth- The maximum speed is limited to er sizable objects.
  • Page 350 Adjust driving to be consistent with reduced able brake pedal force is required braking responsiveness. and the stopping distance is in- Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center im- creased. mediately. Adjust driving to be consistent with reduced braking responsiveness. A tow bar must be used if circumstances do...
  • Page 351 There is insufficient brake fluid in Risk of accident! Stop the vehicle as soon as the reservoir. it is safe to do so and notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not add brake fluid! This will not solve the problem. Warning Driving with this message displayed can re- sult in an accident.
  • Page 352 Canada only: Possible cause Possible solution There are malfunctions, but the SBC Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as brake system is operating normally. soon as possible. The brake system is overheated due Relieve the load on the brake system.
  • Page 353 You can be seriously burned. Possible cause Possible solution There may be a malfunction in the Have the engine checked as soon as possible by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center fuel injection system ( page 327). ignition system exhaust system fuel system The coolant level is too low.
  • Page 354 248°F (120°C). The engine should not be operated with the coolant temperature above 248°F (120°C). Doing so may cause serious engine damage which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
  • Page 355 Do not continue to drive. Otherwise, the en- gine will overheat due to an inoperative water pump which may result in damage to the en- gine. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. If it is intact: Do not continue to drive with this message displayed.
  • Page 356 Have the electronic systems checked by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Certain electronic systems are un- Have the electronic systems checked by an able to relay information to the con- authorized Mercedes-Benz Center trol system.
  • Page 357 Left display Right display USA only: Add 1 qt. engine oil at next refueling Canada only: Add 1 liter engine oil at next refueling Engine oil level Stop, put engine off Engine oil level Reduce oil level Possible cause Suggested solution The engine oil level is too low.
  • Page 358 Factory Approved Service Products pam- phlet. The engine oil level warnings should not be ignored. Extended driving with the symbol displayed could result in serious engine damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
  • Page 359 Close the fuel cap. fuel system may be leaky. If it is closed properly: Have the fuel system checked by an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center. The retractable hardtop is malfunc- Have the retractable hardtop checked by an tioning. authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
  • Page 360 SmartKey in the starter switch. Message is only a reminder. The KEYLESS-GO* system is mal- Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as functioning. soon as possible. The KEYLESS-GO* system is mal- Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as functioning.
  • Page 361 The high mounted brake lamp is Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as malfunctioning. soon as possible. The left brake lamp is malfunction- Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as ing.
  • Page 362 Left turn signal Mirror Possible cause Possible solution The right brake lamp is malfunction- Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as ing. An auxiliary lamp has been soon as possible. brought into use. Brake lamp illumination is delayed Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as or lamp is permanently on.
  • Page 363 The headlamps switch on automati- manual ( page 152). cally. Switch on headlamps using the exterior lamp switch. Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible. The left low beam lamp is malfunc- Halogen headlamp: tioning. Replace the bulb as soon as possible.
  • Page 364 Practical hints What to do if … Left display Right display Marker lamp Front left Marker lamp Front right Marker lamp Rear left Marker lamp Rear right Parking lamp Front left Parking lamp Front right Rear foglamp Left Reverse lamp Left Reverse lamp Right...
  • Page 365 This message will only appear if all light emitting diodes have stopped working. The left tail lamp is malfunctioning. Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as An auxiliary lamp has been brought soon as possible. into use. The right tail lamp is malfunction- Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as ing.
  • Page 366 Replace the bulb as soon as possible. malfunctioning. An auxiliary lamp has been brought into use. The display for the lights is malfunc- Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as tioning. soon as possible. The roll bar is malfunctioning. Raise the roll bar using the roll bar button ( page 73).
  • Page 367 If tire cannot be temporarily repaired using TIREFIT, contact Roadside Assistance. Have the damaged wheel repaired or replaced at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center. You may lose control of the vehicle. Contin- ued driving with a flat tire will cause exces- sive heat build-up and possibly a fire.
  • Page 368 Vehicles with Tirefit: If necessary, temporarily repair tire using TIREFIT ( page 388) or contact Roadside Assistance. If tire cannot be temporarily repaired using TIREFIT, contact Roadside Assistance. Have the damaged wheel repaired or replaced at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
  • Page 369 If tire cannot be temporarily repaired using TIREFIT, contact Roadside Assistance. Have the damaged wheel repaired or replaced at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Carefully bring the vehicle to a halt. Check the tire. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure.
  • Page 370 If tire cannot be temporarily repaired using TIREFIT, contact Roadside Assistance. Have the damaged wheel repaired or replaced at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Carefully bring the vehicle to a halt. Check the tire. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure.
  • Page 371 If tire cannot be temporarily repaired using TIREFIT, contact Roadside Assistance. Have the damaged wheel repaired or replaced at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Carefully bring the vehicle to a halt. Check the tire. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure.
  • Page 372 If tire cannot be temporarily repaired using TIREFIT, contact Roadside Assistance. Have the damaged wheel repaired or replaced at an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Carefully bring the vehicle to a halt. Check the tire. Check and adjust the tire inflation pressure.
  • Page 373 Left display Right display Ê Close trunk lid Close trunk partition Washer fluid Check level Warning! Do not spill antifreeze on hot engine parts. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which may ignite when if it comes into contact with hot engine parts. You could be seriously burned.
  • Page 374: Where Will I Find

    Practical hints Where will I find ...? First aid kit The first aid kit is located in storage com- partment under the passenger seat. 1 Handle 2 Lid Pull handle 1 up. Fold lid 2 down. You can now remove the first-aid kit. Check expiration dates and contents for completeness at least once a year and replace missing/expired items.
  • Page 375 Vehicles with spare wheel 1 Spare wheel 2 Electric air pump 3 Vehicle tool kit 4 Battery for electrical consumers 5 Jack (under spare wheel) 6 Wheel wrench (under spare wheel) Practical hints Where will I find ...? Vehicles with TIREFIT kit (SL 65 AMG only) 1 TIREFIT kit 2 Electric air pump...
  • Page 376: Locking/Unlocking In An Emergency

    Practical hints Locking/unlocking in an emergency Unlocking the vehicle If you are unable to unlock the driver’s door using the SmartKey, open the door using the mechanical key. Unlocking your vehicle with the me- chanical key will trigger the anti-theft alarm system.
  • Page 377 Unlocking the trunk A minimum height clearance of 6.2 ft (1.89 m) is required to open the trunk lid. If you are unable to unlock the trunk with the SmartKey, open the trunk with the me- chanical key. The handle is located above the rear li- cense plate recess.
  • Page 378: Locking The Vehicle

    Practical hints Locking/unlocking in an emergency 1 Separately unlock storage compart- ments 2 Centrally lock/unlock storage com- partments 3 Separately lock storage compartments Slide mechanical key out of SmartKey housing ( page 374). Insert the mechanical key into the glove box lock and turn it to position 2.
  • Page 379: Replacing Batteries In The Smartkey/Smartkey With Keyless-Go

    Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Replace the trunk floor. Recycling of batteries is the preferred Visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz method of disposal. Many states require Center as soon as possible. sellers of batteries to accept old batteries for recycling.
  • Page 380 (+) side facing up. Return battery compartment into hous- ing until it locks into place. 1 Battery 2 Tilt battery up 3 Mechanical key Replacement batteries: Lithium, type CR 2025 or equivalent. The required replacement batteries are available at any Mercedes-Benz Center.
  • Page 381 Practical hints Locking/unlocking in an emergency Remove mechanical key ( page 374). Insert the mechanical key in side open- ing and push gray slide. The battery compartment is unlatched. Pull the battery compartment out of the SmartKey housing. Using mechanical key 3, apply pres- sure to position 2.
  • Page 382: Replacing Bulbs

    Have headlamps checked and readjusted at regular intervals and when a bulb has been replaced. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for headlamp ad- justment. If the headlamps or front fog lamps are fogged up on the inside as a result of...
  • Page 383 6 Side marker lamp W 5 W Vehicles with Bi-Xenon* headlamps: Low beam and high beam use the same D2S-35W lamp. Do not replace the Xenon and Bi-Xenon* bulbs your- self. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Practical hints Replacing bulbs Rear lamps Lamp...
  • Page 384 Your hands should be dry and free of oil and grease. If the newly installed bulb does not come on, visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Have the LEDs and bulbs for the following lamps replaced by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center:...
  • Page 385: Replacing Bulbs For Front Lamps

    Replacing bulbs for front lamps Before you start to replace a bulb for a front lamp, do the following first: Turn the exterior lamp switch to posi- tion M ( page 123). Open the hood ( page 270) (except for side marker lamps). 1 Bulb socket for turn signal lamp 2 High beam headlamp cover 3 Low beam headlamp cover (Xenon or...
  • Page 386 Practical hints Replacing bulbs High beam/ high beam flasher bulbs Press ends of headlamp cover tab to- gether and remove high beam head- lamp cover 2. Pull the electrical connector off. Turn locking mechanism 5 counter- clockwise and take out the bulb. Insert the new bulb so that the base lo- cates in the recess on the holder.
  • Page 387: Replacing Bulbs For Rear Lamps

    Replacing bulbs for rear lamps Before you start to replace a bulb for a rear lamp, do the following first: Turn the exterior lamp switch to posi- tion M ( page 123). Open the trunk ( page 107). Tail lamp unit 1 Backup lamp 2 Turn signal lamp 3 Driver’s side: Rear fog lamp...
  • Page 388: Replacing Wiper Blades

    Practical hints Replacing wiper blades To avoid damage to the hood, the wiper arms should only be folded forward when in the vertical position. Removing wiper blades Warning! For safety reasons, switch off wipers and re- move SmartKey from starter switch (vehi- cles with KEYLESS-GO*: Make sure the vehicle’s on-board electronics have status 0) before replacing a wiper blade.
  • Page 389: Installing Wiper Blades

    Make sure the wiper blades are proper- ly installed. Improperly installed wiper blades may cause windshield damage. For your convenience, we recommend that you have this work carried out by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Practical hints Replacing wiper blades...
  • Page 390: Flat Tire

    Practical hints Flat tire Your SL 65 AMG is be equipped with a TIREFIT kit. Preparing the vehicle Park the vehicle as far as possible from moving traffic on a hard surface. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. Turn the steering wheel so that the front wheels are in a straight ahead po- sition.
  • Page 391 Do not drive the vehicle under such circum- stances. Contact your nearest Mercedes-Benz Center for assistance or call Roadside Assistance. Foreign objects (e.g. screws or nails) should not be removed from the tire.
  • Page 392 Practical hints Flat tire Screw the air pump’s air hose 5 onto flange 6 of the TIREFIT container. Stick TIREFIT container 1 upside down into notch 3 of the electric air pump. 7 Tire valve 8 Electric air pump switch 9 Air hose with pressure gauge and vent screw a Filler hose...
  • Page 393 TIREFIT to provide a reliable tire repair. In this case, TIREFIT cannot properly seal the tire. Do not drive the vehicle. Contact the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or call Roadside Assistance. After attaining a tire inflation pressure of 26 psi (1.8 bar), press 0 on electric air pump switch 8.
  • Page 394 20 psi (1.3 bar) do not continue to drive the vehicle. Park your vehicle safely away from the road- way and contact the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or Roadside Assistance. If tire inflation pressure is at least 20 psi (1.3 bar), inflate tire to correct pres- sure (see placard on the driver’s door...
  • Page 395: Mounting The Spare Wheel

    50 mph (80 km/h). Drive to the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as possible to have the spare wheel replaced with a regular road wheel. Never operate the vehicle with more than one spare wheel mounted.
  • Page 396 Practical hints Flat tire On wheel to be changed, loosen but do not yet remove the wheel bolts (ap- proximately one full turn with wrench). The jack support tubes are located behind the front wheel housings and in front of the rear wheel housings.
  • Page 397 2 Jack support tube hole (SL 55 AMG, SL 65 AMG and vehicles with Sport Package* only) Insert a flat blade screwdriver in the opening of cover 2 and pry it out. Remove cover 2, taking care not to damage the locking tabs. 1 Jack arm 2 Jack support tube hole 3 Crank...
  • Page 398 Damaged wheel hub threads should be re- paired immediately. Do not continue to drive under these circumstances! Contact an au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call Roadside Assistance. Incorrect wheel bolts or improperly tight- ened wheel bolts can cause the wheel to come off.
  • Page 399 Warning! Only use genuine equipment Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts. They are identi- fied by the Mercedes star. Other wheel bolts may come loose. Do not tighten the wheel bolts when the ve- hicle is raised. Otherwise the vehicle could tip over.
  • Page 400 Practical hints Flat tire Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 1. Press the KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button on the gear selector lever once without depressing the brake pedal. Press I on the electric air pump switch. The electric air pump should now switch on and inflate the tire.
  • Page 401 Detach the electric air pump. Lowering the vehicle Stow the electrical plug and the air hose behind the flap and place the air pump back in the trunk. The flat tire may be transported in the trunk when the retractable hardtop is raised.
  • Page 402 Practical hints Flat tire Replacing jack support tube cover Slide tongue of cover under the upper edge of the tube opening. Applying even pressure, press cover until it snaps into place. Be careful not to damage the locking tabs or clamp the plastic retaining strap.
  • Page 403: Batteries

    As with any other battery, disconnect the consumer battery if you do not in- tend to operate your vehicle for an extended period of time to prevent bat- tery discharge. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further infor- mation.
  • Page 404 Have the starter battery checked regu- larly by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Refer to Maintenance Booklet for main- tenance intervals or contact an autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Center for further...
  • Page 405: Disconnecting The Batteries

    Warning! The brake system requires electrical power to operate. A malfunction in the vehicle’s power supply or electrical system may impair brake sys- tem operation and switch it into its emer- gency operation mode. The same applies if battery is disconnected. To brake, the driver must then apply significantly greater brake pedal pressure and depress the pedal much further to obtain the expected braking ef-...
  • Page 406: Removing The Batteries

    Practical hints Batteries Unhook the luggage cover in the trunk. Remove the trunk floor. The battery for electrical consumers is located in the right hand area of the trunk ( page 372). Use the 10 mm open-end wrench from the vehicle tool kit to disconnect the negative lead from negative terminal 4 of the consumer battery.
  • Page 407: Reconnecting The Batteries

    Reconnecting the batteries Always connect the batteries in the order described below. Otherwise the vehicle’s electronics can be damaged. Turn off all electrical consumers. Install starter battery in the designated location in the engine compartment. Install consumer battery in the desig- nated location in the trunk.
  • Page 408: Jump Starting

    (12V). Jump start- ing with a more powerful battery could damage the vehicle’s electrical system, which will not be covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Only use jumper cables with sufficient cross section and insulated terminal clamps.
  • Page 409 Remove the jumper cables first from negative terminals 1 and 2 and then from positive terminals 3 and 4. You can now turn on the lights. Have the battery checked at the near- est Mercedes-Benz Center. Do not tow-start the vehicle.
  • Page 410: Towing The Vehicle

    Practical hints Towing the vehicle Mercedes-Benz recommends that the vehi- cle be transported with all wheels off the ground using flatbed or appropriate wheel lift/dolly equipment. Use flatbed or wheel lift/dolly equip- ment with SmartKey in starter switch turned to position 0.
  • Page 411: Towing The Vehicle

    Warning! To be certain to avoid a possibility of damage to the transmission, however, If circumstances require towing the vehicle we recommend the drive shaft be dis- with all wheels on the ground, always tow connected at the rear axle drive flange with a tow bar if: for any towing beyond a short tow to a nearby garage.
  • Page 412 Practical hints Towing the vehicle Warning! The brake system requires electrical power to operate. A malfunction in the vehicle’s power supply or electrical system may impair brake sys- tem operation and switch it into its emer- gency operation mode. To brake, the driver must then apply significantly greater brake pedal pressure and depress the pedal much further to obtain the expected braking ef-...
  • Page 413: Installing Towing Eye Bolt

    Installing towing eye bolt Front of vehicle 1 Cover on right side of front bumper. To remove cover: Press mark on cover 1 in direction of arrow. Lift cover 1 off to reveal threaded hole for towing eye bolt. The towing eye bolt is supplied with the tool kit (located in the storage compart- ment under the trunk floor).
  • Page 414: Fuses

    The fuse chart explains the fuse alloca- tion and fuse amperages. Spare fuses Fuse extractor Warning Only use fuses approved for Mercedes-Benz with the specified amperage for the system in question. Otherwise, a short circuit could result and cause a fire. Main fuse box...
  • Page 415 Opening Open the hood ( page 270). Move slide to position 2 and lift cover 1. Closing Hook cover 1 onto tabs and close it. Move slide to position 3. The fuse box cover must be properly positioned with the slide at the ‹ symbol to prevent moisture or dirt from entering the fuse box and possibly im- pairing fuse operation.
  • Page 417: Technical Data

    Technical data Parts service Warranty coverage Identification labels Layout of poly-V-belt drive Engine Rims and tires Electrical system Main dimensions Weights Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc.
  • Page 418: Parts Service

    The “Technical data” section provides the necessary technical data for your vehicle. All authorized Mercedes-Benz Centers maintain a stock of genuine Mercedes-Benz parts required for mainte- nance and repair work. In addition, strate- gically located parts distribution centers provide quick and reliable parts service.
  • Page 419: Warranty Coverage

    Emission System Warranty Emission Performance Warranty California, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont Emission Control Systems Warranty Replacement parts and accessories are covered by the Mercedes-Benz Parts and Accessories warranties, copies of which are available at any Mercedes-Benz Cen- ter. Technical data Warranty coverage...
  • Page 420: Identification Labels

    Technical data Identification labels 1 Certification label (includes Paintwork code) 2 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) (below right rear storage compart- ment) 3 Engine number (engraved on engine) 4 VIN, visible (lower edge of windshield) 5 Emission control information label, includes both federal and California certification exhaust emission stan- dards 6 Vacuum line routing diagram label...
  • Page 421: Layout Of Poly-V-Belt Drive

    Layout of poly-V-belt drive SL 500 1 Automatic belt tensioner 2 ABC tandem pump (pump for power-steering assistance and ABC chassis) 3 Air conditioning compressor 4 Crankshaft 5 Coolant pump 6 Generator (alternator) 7 Idler pulley SL 55 AMG The SL 55 AMG has two poly-V-belts (belt one shown in purple/belt two shown in black).
  • Page 422: Engine

    Poly-V-belt 2390 mm The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for the corresponding data of all special bodies and special equipment. Premium fuel required. Performance may vary with fuel octane rating. SL 600 (230.476) 4-stroke engine, gasoline injection 3.23 in (82.00 mm)
  • Page 423 Poly-V-belt 2462 mm/1289 mm The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for the corresponding data of all special bodies and special equipment. Premium fuel required. Performance may vary with fuel octane rating. SL 65 AMG (230.479) 4-stroke engine, gasoline injection 3.25 in (82.60 mm)
  • Page 424: Rims And Tires

    Technical data Rims and tires Only use tires and rims which have been specifically developed for your vehicle and tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz. Other tires and rims can have detrimental effects, such as Poor handling characteristics Increased noise Increased fuel consumption...
  • Page 425: Same Size Tires

    Same size tires 17" tires SL 500* Rims (light alloy) J x 17 H2 Wheel offset 1.38 in (35 mm) Summer tires (radial-ply tires) 255/45 R17 98W Winter tires (radial-ply tires) 255/45 R17 102V XL or Extra Load M+S 18" tires SL 500 Rims (light alloy) J x 18 H2...
  • Page 426 Technical data Rims and tires 19" tires SL 500* Rims (light alloy) Wheel offset Summer tires (radial-ply tires) Winter tires (radial-ply tires) Must not be used with snow chains. SL 600 SL 55 AMG SL 65 AMG J x 19 EH2 1.18 in (30 mm) 255/35 R19 96V XL or Extra Load M+S...
  • Page 427: Mixed Size Tires

    Mixed size tires SL 500 Front axle: Rims (light alloy) J x 18 H2 Wheel offset 1.38 in (35 mm) Summer tires (radial-ply tires) 255/40 R18 95W Rear axle: Rims (light alloy) J x 18 H2 Wheel offset 1.57 in (40 mm) Summer tires (radial-ply tires) 285/35 R18 97W Must not be used with snow chains.
  • Page 428 Technical data Rims and tires SL 600 (Sport Package*) Front axle: Rims (light alloy) J x 18 H2 Wheel offset 1.38 in (35 mm) Summer tires (radial-ply tires) 255/40 ZR18 95Y Rear axle: Rims (light alloy) J x 18 H2 Wheel offset 1.57 in (40 mm) Summer tires (radial-ply tires)
  • Page 429: Spare Wheel

    Spare wheel SL 500 6 B x 17 H2 Wheel offset 0.98 in (25 mm) Collapsible tire 185/60-17 93P Must not be used with snow chains. The SL 65 AMG does not have a spare wheel. The SL 65 AMG is equipped with TIREFIT ( page 388).
  • Page 430: Electrical System

    Technical data Electrical system Model SL 500 Generator (alternator) 14 V/150 A Starter motor 12 V/1.7 kW Battery Starter battery 12 V/35 Ah Battery for electrical consumers 12 V/70 Ah Spark plugs Bosch F 8 DPER NGK PFR5R11 Electrode gap 0.039 in (1.0 mm) Tightening torque 15 –...
  • Page 431: Main Dimensions

    Main dimensions Model SL 500 Overall vehicle length 178.5 in (4535 mm) 178.5 in (4535 mm) 178.5 in (4535 mm) 178.5 in (4535 mm) Overall vehicle length when opening/ 185.4 in (4709 mm) 185.4 in (4709 mm) 185.4 in (4709 mm) 185.4 in (4709 mm) closing hardtop Overall vehicle width 71.9 in (1827 mm)
  • Page 432: Weights

    Technical data Weights Trunk load max. 220 lb (100 kg)
  • Page 433: Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, Etc

    Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc. Please refer to the Factory Approved Ser- vice Products pamphlet, or inquire at your Mercedes-Benz Center. Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc. Approved engine oils MB Automatic Transmission Fluid Hypoid gear oil SAE 85 W 90...
  • Page 434 Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc. Cooling system Low temperature cooling system Fuel tank including a reserve of Air conditioning system Hydraulic system for retractable hardtop Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning system Use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and water for temperatures above freezing or MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and commercially available pre- mixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze for temperatures below freezing.
  • Page 435: Engine Oils

    For a listing of approved engine oils and oil filters, refer to the Factory Ap- proved Service Products pamphlet, or con- tact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Using engine oils and oil filters of specifica- tion other than those expressly required for the Maintenance System (U.S.
  • Page 436: Premium Unleaded Gasoline

    Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc. Premium unleaded gasoline To maintain the engine’s durability and performance, premium unleaded gaso- line must be used. If premium unleaded is not available and low octane fuel is used, follow these precautions: have the fuel tank only partially filled with unleaded regular and fill up with premium unleaded as soon as possible...
  • Page 437: Gasoline Additives

    Gasoline additives A major concern among engine manufac- turers is carbon build-up caused by gaso- line. Mercedes-Benz recommends only the use of quality gasoline containing additives that prevent the build-up of carbon depos- its. After an extended period of using fuels...
  • Page 438 The re- placement interval published in the Maintenance Booklet is only applicable if MB 325.0 anticorrosion/antifreeze solu- tion or other Mercedes-Benz approved products of equal specification (see Factory Approved Service Products pam- phlet) are used to renew the coolant con- centration or bring it back up to the proper level.
  • Page 439 Before the start of the winter season (or once a year in hot southern regions), you should have the anticorrosion/antifreeze concentration checked. The coolant is also regularly checked each time you bring your vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for service.
  • Page 440: Windshield And Headlamp Washer System

    Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc. Windshield and headlamp washer system Both the windshield and headlamp washer systems are supplied from the windshield washer fluid reservoir. The windshield and headlamp washer fluid reservoir has a capacity of approx. 7.4 US qt (7 l). Refill the reservoir with MB Windshield Washer Concentrate and water (or con- centrate and commercially available...
  • Page 441: Technical Terms

    Special restraint system for children. The sensor system for the passenger seat prevents deployment of the pas- senger front airbag if a BabySmart compatible child seat is installed. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for availability. BabySmart is a trademark of Siemens Automotive Corp.
  • Page 442 Technical terms CAN system (Controller Area Network) Data bus network serving to control ve- hicle functions such as door locking or windshield wiping depending on vehi- cle settings and/or ambient condi- tions. Cockpit All instruments, switches, buttons and indicator/warning lamps in the passen- ger compartment needed for vehicle operation and monitoring.
  • Page 443 (Electronic Stability Program) Improves vehicle handling and direc- tional stability. (Emergency Tensioning Device) Device which deploys in certain frontal and rear collisions exceeding the sys- tem's threshold to tighten the seat belts. ->SRS FSS (Canada vehicles) (Flexible Service System) Service indicator in the multifunction display that informs the driver when the next vehicle maintenance service is due.
  • Page 444 ( page 132). Avoid this engine speed range, as it may result in serious engine damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Parktronic (Parking assist)* System which uses visual and acoustic signals to assist the driver during park- ing maneuvers.
  • Page 445 REST (Residual Engine Heat Utilization) Feature that uses the engine heat stored in the coolant to heat the vehi- cle interior for a short time after the en- gine has been turned off. Retractable hardtop Hardtop roof that can be opened and closed at the push of a button and stored in the trunk.
  • Page 446 Technical terms Tightening torque Force times lever arm (e.g. a lug wrench) with which threaded fasteners such as wheel bolts are tightened. Tire speed rating Part of tire designation; indicates the speed range for which a tire is ap- proved. Traction Force exerted by the vehicle on the road via the tires.
  • Page 447: Index

    ABC 220, 439 Messages in display 337 Oil level 275 Setting vehicle level 221 ABC switch 30 ABS 79, 80, 439 ABS control 80 Messages in display 338 Warning lamp 27, 325 ABS/ESP Warning lamp 25, 324 Accelerator position, automatic transmission 171 Accessory weight 305 Activating...
  • Page 448 Index Air conditioner refrigerant 433 Air conditioning (cooling) Turning off 191 Turning on 191 Air pressure 305 Air pressure see Tire inflation pressure Air pump, electric 373 Turning on 398 Air recirculation mode 187 Air volume adjustment 185 AIRBAG OFF Warning lamp 334 Airbags 63 Children 64...
  • Page 449 BabySmart airbag deactivation system 76, 439 BabySmart compatible child seats 439 Backrest supports Lumbar region 116 Shoulder region 116 Backrest tilt 40 Backup lamp bulbs 381 Backup lamps 385 Bar 305 BAS 79, 81, 439 Batteries, SmartKey Changing 377 Batteries, SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* Changing 378 Check lamp 105 Batteries, vehicle 277...
  • Page 450 Index Center air vents 29 Center console Lower part 30 Upper part 29 Centigrade Setting temperature units 148 Central locking Automatic 110 Central locking switch 111 Switching on/off (control system) 156 Unlocking from inside 111 Central locking switch 29 Central unlocking switch 29 Changing Batteries (SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO*) 378...
  • Page 451 Cockpit 440 Cold tire inflation pressure 305 Collapsible tire 440 COMAND 29, 440 COMAND, radio and telephone 264 Combination switch 23, 52, 128 Comfort driving Transmission program mode 170 Control system 134, 137, 440 AUDIO menu 139 Convenience submenu 157 Distronic* menu 142 Functions 136 Instrument cluster submenu 148,...
  • Page 452 Index Air recirculation mode 188 Alarm 90 Anti-theft alarm system 89 Automatic climate control 191 Central locking (control system) 156 Cruise control 206 Distance warning function* 217 Distronic* 215 Engine with KEYLESS-GO* 59 Engine with the SmartKey 58 ESP 83 Exterior lamps 123 Hazard warning flasher 129 Headlamps 57, 123...
  • Page 453 Intermittent signal tone 211 Setting a higher speed 214 Setting a slower speed 214 Setting distance 30 Setting last stored speed 215 Setting speed 214 System sensor cover 318 Warning and indicator lamps 210 Distronic* warning lamp 25 Door control panel 23, 32 Door handle 32 Doors Message in display 354...
  • Page 454 Index Emission control 265 Emission control label 418 Engine Compartment 270 Starting with KEYLESS-GO* 49 Starting with the SmartKey 48 Turning off 58 Turning off with KEYLESS-GO* 59 Turning off with the SmartKey 58 Engine number 440 Engine oil 272, 433 Adding 274 Additives 433 Checking level 272...
  • Page 455 Fuel filler flap 267 Locking 267 Opening 267 Unlocking 267 Fuel requirements 434 Fuel reserve tank Message in display 357 Fuel tank Filler flap 267 Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. - capacities 431 Functions (control system) 136 Fuse chart 412 Fuse chart see Vehicle tool kit Fuses 412 Fuse chart 412 Fuse extractor 412...
  • Page 456 Index Height adjustment Head restraints 41 Height adjustments Vehicle level 221 High beam flasher 128 High beam headlamp indicator 27 High beam headlamps 52, 123, 381 Replacing bulbs 383 Switching on 128 High-performance brake system (SL 65 AMG only) 258 Hood 270 Messages in display 357 Horn 23...
  • Page 457 Light sensor 361 Replacing bulbs for rear 381, 385 Switching off 123 Switching on 123 Lamps, indicator and warning ABS 27, 325 ABS/ESP 324 AIRBAG OFF 334 Airbag Off 68 Brakes 326 CHECK ENGINE 327, 328 Coolant 328 DTR* 210 Engine diagnostics 327, 328 ESP 82 Fuel reserve 330...
  • Page 458 Index Main fuse box 412 Maintenance service Overdue 313 When due 312 Maintenance service indicator 312 Clearing 313 Maintenance System (U.S. vehicles) 312, 441 Malfunction memory 143 Calling up 143 Clearing 144 Manual operation Interior lighting control 130 Locking the vehicle 376 Lowering load assist 376 Unlocking storage compartments 375...
  • Page 459 Multifunction display messages ABC 337 ABS 338 Battery 345, 346 Brake pads 346 Brake system 350 CHECK ENGINE 351 Coolant 352 Coolant level 351, 353 Display malfunction 354 Doors 354 Easy-entry/exit feature 354 Fuel reserve tank 357 Hood 357 Luggage cover 371 Retractable hardtop 357 Roll bar 364 SBC brake system 347, 348...
  • Page 460 Index Operating CD player 141 Navigation system 142 Radio 140 Telephone* 161 Overhead control panel 31 Overspeed range 132, 442 Panic alarm 78 Panic button on SmartKey 78 Panorama roof* Sunshade 203 Sunshade closing 204 Sunshade opening 204 Parcel net in passenger footwell 231 Parcel net in trunk 231 Parktronic* deactivation switch 30 Parking 259...
  • Page 461 Power train 442 Power window Closing with KEYLESS-GO* 195 Power windows 193 Side windows 193 Synchronizing 195 Problems while driving 55 Production options weight 306 Program mode selector switch 443 Automatic transmission 30, 170 PSI 306 PULSE function (Massage function) 116 Quick search Phone book* 163 Radio...
  • Page 462 Index Resume function Cruise control 208 Distronic* 215 Retractable hardtop 443 Closing (SmartKey) 201 Closing (switch) 198 Convenience feature 201 Locking after raising/lowering 199 Message in display 357 Opening (SmartKey) 200 Opening (switch) 197 Problems when operating 201 Summer opening feature 200 Rim 306 Roll bar 73, 443 Lowering 74...
  • Page 463 Service System see Vehicle Maintenance System Setting 150 Convenience functions 157 Daytime running lamp mode 152 Digital clock 23 Distronic* time interval 216 Exterior rear view mirror parking position 158 Instrument lighting 131 Interior lighting delayed switch-off 155 Key-dependent memory 158 Lamps and lighting (control system) 152 Locator lighting 153...
  • Page 464 Index Side windows Automatic closing 195 Automatic opening 194 Closing 193, 194 Closing fully 195 Closing with KEYLESS-GO* 195 Express-close 195 Express-open 194 Opening 193, 194 Opening fully 194 Stopping 195 Synchronizing power windows 195 Sidewall 306 SmartKey 94 Changing the batteries 377 Checking the batteries 97 Closing retractable hardtop 201 Factory setting 96...
  • Page 465 Starter battery 277, 401 Starter switch 23, 36 Starter switch positions 36 SmartKey 36 SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* 37 Starting difficulties 49 Starting position 36 Starting the engine With the SmartKey 48 With the SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* 49 Steering column In/out adjustment 42 Length adjustment 42 Up/down adjustment 42 Steering wheel...
  • Page 466 Index Switching on Front fog lamps 127 Rear fog lamp 127 Switching on headlamps 51 Symbol Distance warning function* 142, 212 Synchronizing ESP 341 Power windows 195 Synchronizing time with head unit 149 Tachometer 27, 132 Tail lamps 381, 385 Technical data Electrical system 428 Main dimensions 429...
  • Page 467 Tire inflation pressure see the placard on the fuel filler flap Tire inspection 280 Tire load rating 307 Tire ply composition and material used 307 Tire speed rating 261, 297, 307, 444 Tire terminology 305 Tire traction 261 TIREFIT Instructions for use 388 TIREFIT kit 373, 388 Tires 279 Direction of rotation 282...
  • Page 468 Index Turn signals 23, 52 Additional in mirrors 381 Front bulbs 381 Indicator lamps 25 Rear bulbs 381 Turning off the engine 58 Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards 307 Units Setting speedometer units 148 Setting temperature units 148 Setting tire inflation pressure units 156 Unlocking 34 Centrally from inside 111...
  • Page 469 Warning lamps see Lamps, indicator and warning Warning sounds Distance warning function* 216 Distronic* 211 Drivers seat belts 69 Warranty coverage 417 Washing the vehicle 317 Wear pattern (tires) 308 Wheel bolts Tightening torque 399 Wheel change 393 Tightening torque 399 Wheel wrench 373 Wheels Tires and wheels 279...
  • Page 473 If you have any questions about carrying out any type of service, turn to the advice of an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

This manual is also suitable for:

2005 sl-classSl 500Sl 55 amgSl 600Sl 65 amg

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