User manual MERCEDES-BENZ SLK 55 AMG

SLK 350 SLK 55 AMG Our company and staff congratulate you on the purchase of your new Mercedes-Benz. Your selection of our product is a demonstration of your trust in our company name. Furthermore, it exemplifies your desire to own an automobile that will be as easy as possible to operate and provide years of service. Your Mercedes-Benz represents the efforts of many skilled engineers and craftsmen. To help assure your driving pleasure, and also the safety of you and your passengers, we ask you to make a small investment of time: Please read this manual carefully, then return it to your vehicle where it will be handy for your reference. Please follow the recommendations contained in this manual. They are designed to acquaint you with the operation of your Mercedes-Benz. Please pay attention to the warnings and cautions contained in this manual. They are designed to help improve the safety of the vehicle operator and occupants. We extend our best wishes for many miles of safe, pleasurable driving. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC A DaimlerChrysler Company Contents Introduction ......................................... 9 Product information................................ 9 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......................... 13 Where to find it.................................... 14 Symbols............................................... 15 Operating safety .................................. 16 Proper use of the vehicle ............... 16 Problems with your vehicle.................. 17 Reporting safety defects...................... 18 Reporting safety defects ................ 18 Vehicle data recording......................... 19 Information regarding electronic recording devices........................... 19 At a glance .......................................... 21 Cockpit................................................. 22 Instrument cluster ................................ 24 Multifunction steering wheel ................ 26 Center console ..................................... 28 Upper part ...................................... 28 Lower part ...................................... 29 Overhead control panel ........................ 30 Door control panel................................ 31 Getting started ................................... 33 Unlocking ............................................. 34 Unlocking with the SmartKey ......... 34 Starter switch positions.................. 35 Adjusting .............................................. 37 Seats .............................................. 37 Steering wheel................................ 40 Mirrors............................................ 42 Driving.................................................. 44 Fastening the seat belts ................. 44 Starting the engine ......................... 47 Switching on headlamps................. 52 Turn signals .................................... 52 Windshield wipers........................... 53 Problems while driving.................... 55 Parking and locking.............................. 56 Parking brake ................................. 56 Switching off headlamps................. 57 Turning off engine........................... 58 Contents Safety and Security ........................... Occupant safety................................... Air bags .......................................... Seat belts ....................................... Children in the vehicle.................... Panic alarm .......................................... Activating ....................................... Deactivating ................................... Driving safety systems......................... ABS ................................................ BAS ................................................ ESP................................................. Anti-theft systems................................ Immobilizer..................................... Anti-theft alarm system.................. Tow-away alarm ............................. 61 62 63 69 73 78 78 78 80 80 81 82 85 85 85 86 Controls in detail ............................... 89 Locking and unlocking ......................... 90 SmartKey ....................................... 90 Opening the doors from the inside. 94 Opening the trunk .......................... 95 Closing the trunk............................ 95 Trunk lid emergency release .......... 96 Automatic central locking .............. 97 Locking and unlocking from the inside ....................................... 97 Seats ................................................... 99 Easy-entry/exit feature* ................ 99 Seat heating*............................... 101 AIRSCARF neck-level heating* ..... 102 Memory function* ............................. 103 Storing positions into memory ..... 104 Recalling positions from memory. 104 Storing exterior rear view mirror parking position (parking aid)....... 105 Lighting.............................................. 106 Exterior lamp switch..................... 106 Combination switch ..................... 110 Cornering fog lamps* (SLK 350 with Bi-Xenon* headlamps and without Sport Package*).............. Hazard warning flasher ................ Interior lighting ............................ Door entry lamps ......................... Instrument cluster ............................. Instrument cluster illumination .... Tachometer.................................. Outside temperature indicator..... Trip odometer .............................. Clock............................................ Control system .................................. Multifunction display.................... Multifunction steering wheel........ Menus.......................................... Standard display menu ................ AUDIO menu ................................ NAV* menu.................................. Vehicle status message memory menu............................................ Settings menu.............................. Trip computer menu..................... TEL menu* ................................... Manual transmission ......................... Shifting into reverse..................... 111 112 113 114 115 115 115 116 116 116 117 117 118 120 122 123 126 126 127 144 146 150 151 Contents Automatic transmission*................... One-touch gearshifting................. Gear ranges ................................. Gear selector lever position ......... Automatic shift program .............. Driving tips................................... Steering wheel gearshift control .. Manual shift program SLK 55 AMG................................. Emergency operation (Limp Home Mode) ...................... Good visibility .................................... Headlamp cleaning system* ........ Rear view mirrors ......................... Sun visors .................................... Rear window defroster ................. Climate control .................................. Switching climate control on/off . Setting the temperature............... Adjusting air distribution.............. Adjusting air volume .................... Air recirculation mode.................. Air conditioning............................ Residual engine heat utilization.... Defrosting .................................... 152 154 155 156 158 159 160 164 166 167 167 167 170 171 172 175 175 176 176 176 178 180 181 Automatic climate control* ................ 182 Automatic mode (basic setting) .... 185 Setting the temperature................ 185 Adjusting air volume ..................... 186 Adjusting air distribution............... 186 Air recirculation mode .................. 186 Air conditioning............................. 188 Residual heat and ventilation........ 189 Defrosting ..................................... 189 Switching off the automatic climate control system ................. 190 Audio system...................................... 191 Audio and telephone, operation .... 191 Operating safety ........................... 191 Operating and display elements.... 192 Button and soft key operation....... 194 Operation...................................... 194 Radio operation ............................ 197 Introduction to satellite radio* (USA only)..................................... 202 CD mode....................................... 207 GSM network phones ................... 216 TDMA or CDMA network phones .. 223 Emergency calls "911".................. 229 Power windows .................................. 232 Opening and closing the windows 232 Synchronizing power windows...... 236 Retractable hardtop ........................... 237 Opening and closing the retractable hardtop....................... 237 Wind screen.................................. 243 Driving systems.................................. 244 Cruise control ............................... 244 Loading .............................................. 249 Roof rack ...................................... 249 Useful features................................... 250 Storage compartments ................. 250 Shelf behind roll bars.................... 252 Cup holder .................................... 252 Ashtray ......................................... 253 Cigarette lighter............................ 254 Electrical outlet............................. 254 Floormat (driver's side only) ......... 255 Telephone* ................................... 256 Tele Aid*....................................... 257 Garage door opener*.................... 264 Heated steering wheel* (SLK 350, Canada only) ................ 270 Contents Operation ......................................... The first 1000 miles (1500 km)......... Driving instructions............................ Drive sensibly ­ save fuel ............. Drinking and driving ..................... Pedals .......................................... Power assistance ......................... Brakes .......................................... Driving off..................................... Parking ......................................... Tires ............................................. Hydroplaning ................................ Tire traction.................................. Tire speed rating .......................... Winter driving instructions ........... Standing water ............................. Passenger compartment .............. Driving abroad.............................. Control and operation of radio transmitter ................................... Catalytic converter ....................... Emission control........................... Coolant temperature .................... 271 272 273 273 273 273 273 274 276 276 277 277 278 278 279 280 281 281 281 282 282 283 At the gas station .............................. Refueling ...................................... Check regularly and before a long trip..................................... Engine compartment ......................... Hood ............................................ Engine oil ..................................... Transmission fluid level* .............. Coolant level ................................ Battery ......................................... Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system*......... Tires and wheels................................ Important guidelines .................... Tire care and maintenance........... Direction of rotation..................... Loading the vehicle ...................... Recommended tire inflation pressure....................................... Checking tire inflation pressure ... MOExtended system* .................. Tire labeling.................................. Load identification ....................... DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN) ............................................. 284 284 285 287 287 288 293 293 294 295 297 297 298 300 300 306 308 312 313 317 318 Maximum tire load ....................... Maximum tire inflation pressure .. Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards (U.S. vehicles)............. Tire ply material ........................... Tire and loading terminology........ Rotating tires ............................... Winter driving .................................... Winter tires .................................. Snow chains................................. Maintenance...................................... Clearing the maintenance service indicator .......................... Maintenance service term exceeded ..................................... Calling up the maintenance service indicator .......................... Resetting the maintenance service indicator .......................... Setting the date for special works ........................................... Calling up the maintenance service data information .............. Vehicle care....................................... Cleaning and care of vehicle ........ 319 320 320 322 323 326 327 327 328 329 330 330 330 331 331 333 334 334 Contents Practical hints ................................. What to do if ... .................................. Lamps in instrument cluster ........ Lamp in center console................ Vehicle status messages in the multifunction display.................... Where will I find...? ............................ First aid kit ................................... Vehicle tool kit, vehicle jack......... Spare wheel with collapsible tire.. Spare wheel bolts ........................ Unlocking/locking in an emergency.. Unlocking the vehicle................... Locking the vehicle ...................... Manually unlocking the gear selector lever (automatic transmission*) ........... Opening/closing in an emergency..... Raising retractable hardtop manually ...................................... Replacing SmartKey batteries ........... SmartKey ..................................... 341 342 342 347 348 369 369 369 371 373 374 374 375 376 377 377 378 379 Replacing bulbs .................................. 380 Bulbs............................................. 380 Replacing bulbs for front lamps .... 382 Replacing bulbs for rear lamps ..... 384 Replacing wiper blades....................... 386 Removing wiper blades ................. 386 Installing wiper blades .................. 387 Flat tire............................................... 388 Preparing the vehicle .................... 388 Mounting the spare wheel ............ 388 Battery................................................ 396 Disconnecting the battery............. 397 Removing the battery.................... 397 Charging and reinstalling battery .. 397 Reconnecting the battery.............. 398 Jump starting...................................... 399 Towing the vehicle.............................. 401 Installing towing eye bolt .............. 403 Fuses.................................................. 404 Aids for changing fuses................. 404 Main fuse box in passenger compartment ................................ 405 Fuse box in engine compartment.. 406 Technical data .................................. 407 Parts service ...................................... 408 Warranty coverage ............................. 409 Loss of Service and Warranty Information Booklet ...................... 409 Identification labels ............................ 410 Layout of poly-V-belt drive.................. 411 SLK 350........................................ 411 SLK 55 AMG ................................. 411 Engine ................................................ 412 Rims and tires .................................... 413 Same size tires ............................. 414 Mixed size tires............................. 416 Spare wheel with collapsible tire .. 418 Electrical system ................................ 419 Main Dimensions................................ 420 Weights .............................................. 421 Contents Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc. ......... Capacities .................................... Engine oils.................................... Engine oil additives ...................... Air conditioning refrigerant .......... Brake fluid .................................... Premium unleaded gasoline ......... Fuel requirements ........................ Gasoline additives ........................ Coolants....................................... Windshield washer system and headlamp cleaning system* ......... 422 422 424 424 424 424 425 425 425 426 429 Technical terms............................... 431 Index................................................. 439 Introduction Product information 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 suitability for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. We are unable to make an assessment for other products and therefore cannot be held responsible for them, even if in individual cases an official approval or authorization by governmental or other agencies should exist. Use of such parts and accessories could adversely affect the safety, performance or reliability of your vehicle. Please do not use them. Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts as well as conversion parts and accessories approved by us are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center where you will receive comprehensive information, also on permissible technical modifications, and where proper installation will be performed. 9 Introduction Operator's Manual This Operator's Manual contains a great deal of useful information. We urge you to read it carefully and familiarize yourself with the vehicle before driving. For your own safety and longer service life of the vehicle, we urge you to follow the instructions and warnings contained in this manual. Ignoring them could result in damage to the vehicle or personal injury to you or others. Vehicle damage caused by failure to follow instructions is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Your vehicle may have some or all of the equipment described in this 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 authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to demonstrate the proper procedures. We continuously strive to improve our product, and ask for your understanding that we reserve the right to make changes in design and equipment. Therefore, information, illustrations and descriptions in this Operator's Manual might differ from your vehicle. Optional equipment is also described in this manual, including operating instructions wherever necessary. Since they are special-order items, the descriptions and illustrations herein may vary slightly from the actual equipment of your vehicle. If there are any equipment details that are not shown or described in this Operator's Manual, your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to inform you of correct care and operating procedures. The Operator's Manual and Maintenance Booklet are important documents and should be kept with the vehicle. Service and warranty information The Service and Warranty Information Booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering your Mercedes-Benz, including: New Car Limited Warranty Emission System Warranty Emission Performance Warranty California, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont Emission Control System Warranty (California, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont only) State Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon Laws) 10 Introduction Operator's Manual Important notice for California retail buyers and lessees of Mercedes-Benz automobiles Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price or lease price, if Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC and/or its authorized repair or service facilities fail to fix one or more substantial defects or malfunctions in the vehicle that are covered by its express warranty after a reasonable number of repair attempts. During the period of 18 months from original delivery of the vehicle or the accumulation of 18000 miles (approx. 29000 km) on the odometer of the vehicle, whichever occurs first, a reasonable number of repair attempts is presumed for a retail buyer or lessee if one or more of the following occurs: (1) the same substantial defect or malfunction results in a condition that is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle is driven, that defect or malfunction has been subject to repair two or more times, and you have directly notified Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC in writing of the need for its repair, (2) the same substantial defect or malfunction of a less serious nature than category (1) has been subject to repair four or more times and you have directly notified us in writing of the need for its repair, or (3) the vehicle is out of service by reason of repair of the same or different substantial defects or malfunctions for a cumulative total of more than 30 calendar 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. 11 Introduction Operator's Manual Maintenance The Maintenance Booklet describes all the necessary maintenance work which should be performed at regular intervals. Always have the Maintenance Booklet with you when you take the vehicle to your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for service. The service advisor will record each service in the booklet for you. Roadside Assistance The Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program provides factory-trained technical help in the event of a breakdown. Calls to the toll-free Roadside Assistance number 1-800-FOR-MERCedes (in the USA) 1-800-387-0100 (in Canada) will be answered by Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Representatives 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For additional information refer to the Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance Program Brochure in your vehicle literature portfolio. Change of address or ownership If you change your address, be sure to send in the "Change of Address Notice" found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or simply call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100. It is in your own interest that we can contact you should the need arise. If you sell your Mercedes, please leave all literature with the vehicle to make it available to the next operator. If you bought this vehicle used, be sure to send in the "Notice of Purchase of Used Car" found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100. 12 Introduction Operator's Manual Operating your vehicle outside the USA or Canada If you plan to operate your vehicle in foreign countries, please be aware that: service facilities or replacement parts may not be readily available, unleaded gasoline for vehicles with catalytic converters may not be available; the use of leaded fuels will damage the catalysts, gasoline may have a considerably lower octane rating, and improper fuel can cause engine damage. Certain Mercedes-Benz models are available for delivery in Europe under our European Delivery Program. For details, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or write to: In the USA: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC European Delivery Department One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350 In Canada: Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. European Delivery Department 98 Vanderhoof Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4G 4C9 13 Introduction Where to find it This Operator's Manual is designed to provide comprehensive support information for you, the vehicle operator. Each section has its own reference color so you can find information quickly. Controls in detail Here you will find detailed information about the equipment installed in your vehicle. This section expands on the "Getting started" section and also describes technical innovations. If you are already familiar with the basic functions of your vehicle, this section will be of particular interest to you. Technical data All important technical data for your vehicle can be found in this section. At a glance Here you will find an overview of all the controls that can be operated from the driver's seat. Indexes The glossary provides explanations of the most important technical terms. The table of contents and the index are designed to help you find information quickly and easily. The following publications are part of your vehicle documentation: this Operator's Manual the Maintenance Booklet Separate operating instructions will be provided as required depending on the equipment options installed in your vehicle. Operation Getting started 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 renting or borrowing this vehicle. Here you will find all the information you need for the proper operation of your vehicle. Practical hints This section provides fast assistance for dealing with problems you may encounter. Safety and Security Here you will find descriptions of the safety and security features of your vehicle. 14 Introduction 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 vehicle. Warning! G This symbol points to instructions for you to follow. A number of these symbols appearing in succession indicates a multiple-step procedure. Page This symbol tells you where to look for further information on a topic. This continuation symbol marks an interrupted procedure which will be continued on the next page. -> In the glossary of technical terms, this symbol is used to indicate cross-references to term definitions. Words appearing in the multifunction display are printed in the type shown here. Warning notices draw your attention to hazards that may endanger your health or life, or the health or life of others. ! Highlights hazards that may result in damage to your vehicle. i Helpful hints or further information you may find useful. Display 15 Introduction Operating safety Warning! G Warning! G Proper use of the vehicle Proper use of the vehicle requires that you are familiar with the following information and rules: the safety precautions in this manual the "Technical data" section ( page 407) in this manual the traffic rules and regulations the motor vehicle laws and safety standards Warning! Work improperly carried out on electronic components and associated software could cause them to cease functioning. Because the vehicle's electronic components are interconnected, any modification made may produce an undesired effect on other systems. 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. Some safety systems only function while the engine is running. You should therefore never turn off the engine while driving. Heavy blows against the vehicle undercarriage or tires/wheels, for example when running over an obstacle, road debris or a pothole, may cause serious damage and impair the operating safety or your vehicle. If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that damage to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on your hazard warning flashers, carefully slow down, and drive with caution to an area which is a safe distance from the road. Inspect the vehicle undercarriage or tires/wheels for possible damage. If the vehicle appears unsafe, have it towed to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or other qualified maintenance or repair facility for further inspection or repairs. G Various labels are attached to your vehicle. These warning labels are intended to make you and others aware of various risks. You should not remove any of these warning labels unless explicitly instructed to do so by information on the label itself. Removal of any of these labels may cause you and others to be unaware of certain risks which may result in an accident and/or personal injury. 16 Introduction Problems with your vehicle 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 not handled to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem with the Mercedes-Benz Center management, or if necessary contact us at one of the following addresses: In the USA: Customer Assistance Center Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC One Mercedes Drive Montvale, NJ 07645-0350 In Canada: Customer Relations Department Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. 98 Vanderhoof Avenue Toronto, Ontario M4G 4C9 17 Introduction Reporting safety defects For the USA only: The following text is published as required of manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the "National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966". 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. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline. 18 Introduction 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. DaimlerChrysler may access the information and share it with others for safety research or vehicle diagnosis purposes with the consent of the vehicle owner or lessee in response to an official request by law enforcement or other government agency for use in dispute resolution involving DaimlerChrysler, its affiliates or sales/service organization and/or as otherwise required or permitted by law. Please check the Tele Aid subscription service agreement for details regarding the information that may be recorded or transmitted via that system. 19 20 At a glance Cockpit Instrument cluster Multifunction steering wheel Center console Overhead control panel Door control panel 21 At a glance Cockpit 22 At a glance Cockpit Item 1 Automatic transmission*: Steering wheel gearshift control* SLK 55 AMG: Steering wheel gearshift control (Speedshift) 2 Multifunction steering wheel 3 Horn 4 Instrument cluster 5 Overhead control panel 6 Glove box 7 Center console 8 Starter switch 9 Steering wheel adjustment handle, manual a Steering wheel adjustment lever, electrical* 24, 115 30, 113 250 28, 29 35 41 41 Page 161 Item Heated steering wheel* (SLK 350, Canada only) b Headlamp cleaning* switch c Hood lock release 26, 118 d Exterior lamp switch e Combination switch Turn signals Windshield wipers High beam headlamps f Power window switches g Door handle h Cruise control lever 52 53 52 232 94 244 Page 270 167 287 52, 106 162 23 At a glance Instrument cluster 24 At a glance Instrument cluster Item 1 Multifunction display with: Main odometer Trip odometer Automatic transmission*: Gear range indicator Automatic transmission*: Program mode Outside temperature indicator (or actual speed when selected) 2 Tachometer with: 122 116 48, 153 158, 164 132 Page Item Page 69, 346 52, 110 345 284 Item Page 52 cator lamp < Seat belt telltale A High beam headlamp indicator lamp 3 Fuel gauge with: Fuel reserve warning lamp L Left turn signal indiK Right turn signal indicator lamp v Electronic Stability Program (ESP) warning lamp 82, 345 56, 343 343 115 115 4 Fuel filler cap location indicator: The fuel filler cap is on the rear right-hand side. 4 Clock ; Brake warning lamp, USA only 3 Brake warning lamp, Canada only 116 62, 346 6 Reset button 7 Knobs for instrument cluster illumination ? Engine malfunction indicator lamp, USA only 344 5 Speedometer with: 1 Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) indicator lamp ± Engine malfunction indicator lamp, Canada only 344 - Antilock Brake System (ABS) indicator lamp 80, 342 25 At a glance Multifunction steering wheel Item 1 Multifunction display Operating control system 2 Selecting a submenu or setting the volume: Press button Page 115 117 Item 4 Moving within a menu: Press button Page j for next display k for previous display 5 Menu systems: Press button æ up/to increase ç down/to decrease 3 Telephone*: Press button è for next menu · for previous menu s to take a call, or to dial a call t to end a call, or to reject an incoming call 26 At a glance Multifunction steering wheel i SLK 55 AMG: The steering wheel in this vehicle will vary from steering wheel shown. However, multifunction steering wheel symbols and feature description apply to AMG vehicles as well. 27 At a glance Center console Upper part Item 1 Cup holder 2 Audio system, or COMAND* (see separate operating instructions) 3 AIRSCARF neck-level heating* switch, passenger-side 4 Seat heater* switch, passenger-side 5 Central unlocking switch 6 Hazard warning flasher switch 7 Central locking switch 8 ESP switch 9 Seat heater* switch, driver's side 102 Page 252 123 Item a AIRSCARF neck-level heating* switch, driver's side b 75 passenger front air bag off indicator lamp c Climate control 101 97 112 97 82 101 Automatic climate control* Rear window defroster switch d Cigarette lighter e Ashtray Page 102 75, 347 172 182 171 254 253 28 At a glance Center console Lower part Item 1 Automatic transmission*: Gear selector lever Manual transmission: Gearshift lever 2 Retractable hardtop opening/closing switch 3 Tow-away alarm deactivation switch 4 Parking brake lever 5 Storage compartment Telephone* compartment Page 152 150 237 87 49 250 Item 6 Passenger-side exterior rear view mirror switch 7 Driver's side exterior rear view mirror switch 8 Exterior rear view mirrors adjustment switch 9 Automatic transmission*: Program mode selector switch Page 43, 167 43, 167 43, 167 158, 164 29 At a glance Overhead control panel Item 1 Interior lighting on/off 2 Interior lighting automatic control switch 3 Right reading lamp on/off 4 Tele Aid (emergency call system) button 5 Garage door opener* 6 Interior rear view mirror 7 Left reading lamp on/off Page 113 114 113 257 264 42, 167 114 30 At a glance Door control panel Door control panel Item 1 Door handle 2 Power window switch for opening/closing passenger-side window 3 Power window switch for opening/closing driver's side window Page 94 232 232 31 32 Getting started Unlocking Adjusting Driving Parking and locking 33 Getting started Unlocking The "Getting started" section provides an overview of the vehicle's most basic functions. First-time Mercedes-Benz owners should pay special attention to the information given here. If you are already familiar with the basic functions described here, the "Controls in detail" section ( page 89) will provide you with further information. The corresponding page references are located at the end of each segment. SmartKey with remote control Unlocking with the SmartKey i Opening a door causes the windows on that side of the car to open slightly. They will return to the up position when the door is closed. i Without the antenna on the left rear side of the vehicle installed, the SmartKey signaling range is considerably reduced. Hold the SmartKey in close proximity towards the antenna base when locking or unlocking the vehicle. For more information, see "Locking and unlocking" ( page 90). 1 < Lock button 2 S Unlock button for trunk lid 3 OE Unlock button 4 Â Panic button ( page 78) Press unlock button OE on the SmartKey. All turn signal lamps flash once. The locking knobs in the doors move up. The anti-theft alarm system is disarmed. Get in the vehicle and insert the SmartKey in the starter switch. 34 Getting started Unlocking Starter switch positions SmartKey 2 Ignition (power supply for all electrical consumers) and driving position. All lamps (except high beam headlamp indicator lamp and turn signal indicator lamps unless activated) in the instrument cluster come on. If a lamp in the instrument cluster fails to come on when the ignition is switched on, have it checked and replaced if necessary. If a lamp in the instrument cluster remains on after starting the engine or comes on while driving, refer to see "Lamps in instrument cluster" ( page 342). 3 Starting position Warning! G 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. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury. Starter switch 0 For removing the SmartKey The steering is locked when the SmartKey is removed from the starter switch. If necessary, move steering wheel slightly to allow the locking mechanism to engage. 1 Power supply to some electrical consumers, such as seat adjustment 35 Getting started Unlocking i When you switch on ignition, the indicator and warning lamps (except high beam headlamp indicator lamp and turn signal indicator lamps unless activated) in the instrument cluster come on. This indicates that the respective system is operational. The indicator and warning lamps (except high beam headlamp indicator lamp and turn signal indicator lamps if activated) should go out when the engine is running. ! If the SmartKey cannot be turned in the starter switch, the vehicle battery may not be sufficiently charged. Check the vehicle battery and charge it if necessary ( page 396). Get a jump start ( page 399). To prevent accelerated vehicle battery discharge or a completely discharged vehicle battery, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch when the engine is not in operation. For information on starting the engine, see ( page 47). i Vehicles with automatic transmission*: The SmartKey can only be removed from the starter switch with the gear selector lever in position P. 36 Getting started Adjusting Adjusting Warning! G Warning! G Warning! G All seat, head restraint, steering wheel, and rear view mirror adjustments, as well as fastening of seat belts, must be done before the vehicle is put into motion. Do not adjust the driver seat while driving. Adjusting the seat while driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat back in an excessively reclined position as this can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. The seat back and seat belts provide the best restraint when the wearer is in a nearly upright position and belts are properly positioned on the body. Your seat must be adjusted so that you can correctly fasten your seat belt ( page 44). Never place hands under the seat or near moving parts while the seat is being adjusted. When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle. Even with the SmartKey removed from the starter switch, the power seats* can be operated when the respective door is open. Therefore, do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury. i The memory function* ( page 103) lets you store the setting for power seats*, steering wheel adjustment (electrical)*, and exterior rear view mirrors. Seats The seats can be adjusted either manually or electrically, depending on the vehicle's equipment. For more information on seats, see "Seats" ( page 99). 37 Getting started Adjusting Warning! G ! When moving the seats, make sure there are no items in the footwell or behind the seats. Otherwise you could damage the seats. Manual seat adjustment Seat fore and aft adjustment Pull handle 1. Slide the seat to the desired position. Adjust seat to a comfortable seating position that allows you to reach the accelerator/brake pedal safely. The position should be as far rearward as possible, consistent with ability to properly operate controls. Allow handle 1 to reengage with an audible click. Check for proper engagement before driving. Children 12 years old and under must never ride in this vehicle, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM1 compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger front air bag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the air bag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result. Infants and small children must be seated in an appropriate BabySmartTM 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 restraint. 1 1 Seat fore and aft adjustment 2 Seat height 3 Backrest tilt BabySmartTM is Automotive Corp. a trademark of Siemens 38 Getting started Adjusting Seat height Pull or push handle 2 up or down and adjust the seat cushion until your legs are slightly supported. Backrest tilt Pull handle 3 and adjust the backrest until your arms are slightly angled when holding the steering wheel. For more information, see "Seats" ( page 99). 1 Seat fore and aft adjustment 2 Seat height 3 Backrest tilt 4 Seat cushion tilt Switch on the ignition ( page 35). or Open the respective door. Power seat* adjustment The seat adjustment switches are located on the outer side of each seat. Seat fore and aft adjustment Press the horizontal switch forward or backward in direction of arrow 1. Adjust seat to a comfortable seating position that still allows you to reach the accelerator/brake pedal safely. The position should be as far rearward as possible, consistent with ability to properly operate controls. Seat height Press the horizontal switch up or down in direction of arrow 2 until your legs are slightly supported. Backrest tilt Press the vertical switch forward or backward in direction of arrow 3 until your arms are slightly angled when holding the steering wheel. 39 Getting started Adjusting Seat cushion tilt Press the horizontal switch up or down in direction of arrow 4 until your upper legs are lightly supported. Head restraint height Warning! Steering wheel Warning! G G Head restraint Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. Adjusting the steering wheel while driving, or driving without the steering wheel adjustment feature locked could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. For your protection, drive only with properly positioned head restraints. Adjust head restraint so that the head restraint supports the back of the head at eye level. This will reduce the potential for injury to the head and neck in the event of an accident or similar situation. Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head restraints. Head restraints are intended to help reduce injuries during an accident. Adjust the height of head restraints manually by pulling them upwards or pushing them downwards. When leaving the vehicle, always remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, take it with you, and lock the vehicle. Even with the SmartKey removed from the starter switch, the electrical steering wheel adjustment feature* can be operated when the driver's door is open. Therefore, do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause an accident and/or serious personal injury. i Adjust the head restraint in such a way that it is as close to the head as possible. 40 Getting started Adjusting Steering wheel adjustment, manual Make sure the steering column is securely locked by trying to move the steering wheel up and down, in and out before driving off. Steering wheel adjustment, electrical* The lever for the electrical steering wheel adjustment is located on the steering column (lower left). ! Do not drive the vehicle until you have properly locked the steering column. Warning! 1 Adjustment handle To unlock the steering column, pull handle 1 out to its stop limit. Move the steering wheel to the desired position. Push handle 1 back to its original position to relock the steering column. When you hear an audible click, the steering column is again fixed into place. G Only adjust the steering wheel with the vehicle at a standstill and make sure the steering column is securely locked in place before driving off. Driving without the steering column locked may cause an unexpected steering wheel movement which could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Make sure the steering column is securely locked by trying to move it up and down, and in and out before driving off. 1 Adjusting steering column, in or out 2 Adjusting steering column, up or down Switch on the ignition ( page 35). or Open the driver's door. 41 Getting started Adjusting Adjusting steering column in or out Move the lever in direction of arrows 1 until a comfortable steering wheel position is reached with your arms slightly bent at the elbow. Adjusting steering column up or down Move the lever in direction of arrows 2. Make sure your legs can move freely and all the displays (including malfunction and indicator lamps) on the instrument cluster are clearly visible. Warning! Mirrors Adjust the interior and exterior rear view mirrors before driving so that you have a good view of the road and traffic conditions. ! Electrolyte drops coming into contact with the vehicle paint finish can only be completely removed while in their liquid state and by applying plenty of water. Interior rear view mirror Adjust the interior rear view mirror manually. For more information, see "Rear view mirrors" ( page 167). G In the case of an accident, liquid electrolyte may escape the mirror housing if the mirror glass breaks. Electrolyte has an irritating effect. Do not allow the liquid to come into contact with eyes, skin, clothing, or respiratory system. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with water, and seek medical help if necessary. i The memory function* ( page 103) lets you store the settings for the steering wheel together with the settings for the exterior rear view mirrors and the driver's seat position. 42 Getting started Adjusting Exterior rear view mirror Warning! The switches are located on the lower part of the center console. i At low ambient temperatures, the exterior rear view mirrors will be heated automatically. G Exercise care when using the passenger-side exterior rear view mirror. The mirror surface is convex (outwardly curved surface for a wider field of view). Objects in mirror are closer than they appear. Check your interior rear view mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes. i The memory function ( page 103) lets you store the settings for the exterior rear view mirrors together with the settings for the steering wheel and the driver's seat position. 1 Driver's side exterior rear view mirror 2 Adjustment switch 3 Passenger-side exterior rear view mirror Switch on the ignition ( page 35). Press switch 1 or 3 to select the respective exterior rear view mirror. Press adjustment switch 2 forward, rearward, left, or right according to the desired setting. ! If an exterior rear view mirror housing is forcibly pushed forward (hit from the rear) or rearward (hit from the front), reposition it by applying firm pressure until it snaps into place. The exterior rear view mirror housing is now properly positioned and you can adjust the mirror normally. ! Before driving the vehicle through an automatic car wash, fold the exterior mirrors in. Otherwise they may get damaged. For more information, see "Storing exterior rear view mirror parking position (parking aid)" ( page 105). 43 Getting started Driving Warning! G Fastening the seat belts Do not lay objects in the driver's footwell. Be careful that floor mats or carpets in the driver's footwell have sufficient clearance for the pedals. During sudden driving or braking maneuvers the objects could get caught between the pedals. You could then no longer brake or accelerate. Warning! G 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 position your seat belt greatly increases your risk of injuries and their likely severity in an accident. You and your passenger should always wear seat belts. If you are ever in an accident, your injuries can be considerably more severe without your seat belt properly buckled. Without your seat belt buckled, you are much more likely to hit the interior of the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, the possibility of injury or death is lessened if you are wearing your seat belt. The air bags can only provide the protection they were designed to afford if the occupants are using their seat belts ( page 62). 44 Getting started Driving Warning! G Warning! G Warning! G Children 12 years old and under must never ride in the front seat, except in a Mercedes-Benz authorized BabySmartTM1 compatible child seat, which operates with the BabySmartTM system installed in the vehicle to deactivate the passenger front air bag when it is properly installed. Otherwise they will be struck by the air bag when it inflates in a crash. If this happens, serious or fatal injury will result. Infants and small children must be seated in an appropriate BabySmartTM 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 restraint. 1 Never let more people ride in the vehicle than there are seat belts available. Be sure everyone riding in the vehicle is correctly restrained with a separate seat belt. Never use a seat belt for more than one person at a time. Read and observe the additional warning notices printed in the "Safety and Security" section ( page 66) and ( page 69). Warning! G Never ride in a moving vehicle with the seat backrest in an excessively reclined position as this can be dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision. If you slide under it, the belt would apply force at the abdomen or neck. That could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The seat backrest and seat belt provide the best restraint when the wearer is in a nearly upright position and the belt is properly positioned on the body. BabySmartTM is Automotive Corp. a trademark of Siemens 45 Getting started Driving With a smooth motion, pull the belt from the belt outlet. Place the shoulder portion of the belt across the top of your shoulder and the lap portion across your hips. Push latch plate 2 into buckle 4 until it engages. If necessary, tighten the lap portion to a snug fit by pulling shoulder portion up. For more information, see "Safety guidelines for the seat belt, emergency tensioning device and air bag" ( page 66). 1 Loop for seat belt guidance 2 Latch plate 3 Release button 4 Buckle Proper use of seat belts Do not twist the seat belt when fastening. Adjust seat belt so that the shoulder portion is located as close as possible to the middle of the shoulder (it should not touch the neck). Never pass the shoulder portion of the belt under your arm. Position the lap belt as low as possible on your hips (over hip joint) and not across the abdomen. Place the seat backrest in a nearly upright position. 46 Getting started Driving Never use a seat belt for more than one person at a time. Do not fasten a seat belt around a person and another object at the same time. When using a seat belt to secure infant or toddler restraints or children in booster seats, always follow the child seat manufacturer's instructions. Check your seat belt during travel to make sure it is properly positioned. Make sure the seat belt is always fitted snugly. Take special care of this when wearing loose clothing. Warning! G Starting the engine Do not pass belts over sharp edges. They could tear. Do not allow the belt to get caught in the door or in the seat adjustment mechanism. This could damage the belt. Never attempt to make modifications to seat belts. This could impair the effectiveness of the belts. Do not bleach or dye seat belts as this may severely weaken them. 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. Warning! G Inhalation of exhaust gas is hazardous to your health. All exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, and inhaling it can cause unconsciousness and lead to death. Do not run the engine in confined areas (such as a garage) which are not properly ventilated. If you think that exhaust gas fumes are entering the vehicle while driving, have the cause determined and corrected immediately. If you must drive under these conditions, drive only with at least one window fully open. 47 Getting started Driving Manual transmission Starting Depress brake pedal. Make sure the gearshift lever is in neutral position (no gear selected). Fully depress the clutch pedal. Otherwise the engine cannot be started due to the integrated safety interlock. Do not depress accelerator. Gearshift pattern for manual transmission Automatic transmission* For more information, see "Manual transmission" ( page 150). Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 3 ( page 35) and hold until the engine starts. For information on turning off the engine, see "Turning off engine" ( page 58). Gearshift pattern for automatic transmission P Park position with gear selector lever lock R Reverse gear N Neutral position D Drive position For more information, see "Automatic transmission*" ( page 152). 48 Getting started Driving Starting Place the gear selector lever in position P. Do not depress the accelerator. Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 3 ( page 35) and release it again immediately. The engine starts automatically. Depress the brake pedal. The gear selector lever lock is released. For information on turning off the engine, see "Turning off engine" ( page 58). Starting difficulties If the engine does not start as described, carry out the following steps: Turn the SmartKey in the starter switch to position 0 and repeat the starting procedure. Remember that extended starting attempts can drain the vehicle battery. Get a jump start ( page 399). If the engine does not start after several starting attempts, there could be a malfunction in the engine electronics or in the fuel supply system. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Parking brake Warning! G 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. Children could release the parking brake, which could result in an accident and/or serious injury. 49 Getting started Driving Driving Warning! ! G If you hear a warning signal when driving off, you have forgotten to release the parking brake. On slippery road surfaces, never downshift in order to obtain braking action. This could result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehicle control. Your vehicle's ABS will not prevent this type of loss of control. ! Simultaneously depressing the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal reduces engine performance and causes premature brake and drivetrain wear. 1 Parking brake lever 2 Release button Pull up slightly on parking brake lever 1 and press release button 2. Push parking brake lever 1 down to its original position. The brake warning lamp ; (USA only) or 3 (Canada only) in the speedometer dial goes out. i Once the vehicle is in motion, the automatic central locking system engages and the locking knobs drop down. For more information, see "Opening the doors from the inside" ( page 94). 50