Mercedes-Benz 1998 SL 500 Operator's Manual page 89

Outside Temperature Indicator
The temperature sensor is located in the
front bumper area. Due to its location,
the sensor can be affected by road or
engine heat during idling or slow
driving. This means that the accuracy
of the displayed temperature can only
be verified by comparison to a
thermometer placed next to the sensor,
not by comparison to external displays
(e.g. bank signs, etc.).
Adaptation to ambient temperature
takes place in steps and depends on the
prevailing driving conditions (stop-
and-go or moderate, constant driving)
and amount of temperature change.
Warning!
The outside temperature indicator is
not designed to serve as an Ice-
Warning Device and is therefore un-
suitable for that purpose. Indicated
temperatures just above the freezing
point do not guarantee that the road
surface is free of ice.
Coolant Temperature Gauge
If the antifreeze mixture is effective to
-22°F (-30°C ), the boiling point of the
coolant in the pressurized cooling
system of your vehicle is approx.
266°F (130°C).
During severe operating conditions and
stop-and-go city traffic, the coolant
temperature may rise close to the red
marking.
The engine should not be operated with
the coolant temperature in the red
zone. Doing so may cause serious
engine damage which is not covered by
the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
Warning!
• Driving when your engine is
badly overheated can cause some
fluids which may have leaked into
the engine compartment to catch
fire. You could be seriously
burned. Turn off the engine and
get out of the car until it cools
down.
• Steam from an overheated engine
can cause serious burns and can
occur just by opening the engine
hood. Stay away from the engine
if you see or hear steam coming
from it.
Turn off the engine and do not stand
near the car until it cools down.
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