service schedule MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS 1999 Owners Manual

Flexible Service System (FSS)




The FSS permits a flexible service schedule that is dire
ctly related to the operating conditions of the vehicle.
The symbol
or appears in the main odometer field prior to the next suggested service. Depending on operating
conditions throughout the year, the nex t service is calculated and displayed in days or distance remaining. The
message is displayed for approx. 10 seconds when turning the electronic key in steering lock to position 2, or it can
be canceled manually by pressing button 0. Once the suggested term has passed, the message plus symbol
or
, preceded by a - (minus symbol) blinks, when turning t he electronic key to position 2. The FSS display can also
be called up for approx.10 seconds with display illuminated by pressing button 0 twice. Following a completed service
the Mercedes-Benz dealer sets the counter to 10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km) and 365 days.

The counter can also be set by any individual. To do so:
1 . Turn electronic key in steering lock to position 2.
2 . Within 4 seconds press button 0 twice.
3 . The present status for days or distance is displayed. Within 10 seconds turn electronic key in steering lock to
position 0.
4 . Press and hold button 0, while turning electronic key in steering lock to position 2 again. The present status for
days or distance is displayed once more. Continue to hold button 0 After approx. 10 seconds a signal sounds, and the
display shows 10 000 miles (Canada: 15000 km).
5 . Release button 0. If the FSS counter was inadvertently reset, have a Mercedes -Benz dealer correct it.

Notes:
When disconnecting vehicle battery for one or more days at a time, such days will not be counted. Any such days not
counted by the FSS can be added by your Mercedes-Benz de aler. The interval between services is determined by
the kind of vehicle operation. Driving at extreme speeds, and cold starts combined with short distance driving in which
the engine does not reach normal operating temperat ure, reduce the interval between services.

Model C 230:
The FSS allows for distances between 10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km) and 15 000 miles (Canada: 22 500 km),
or from 365 to 730 days between services.

Models C 280 and C 43 AMG:
The FSS allows for distances between 10 000 miles (Canada: 15 000 km) and 20 000 miles (Canada: 30 000 km),
or from 365 to 730 days between services. However you choose to set your reference numbers, the scheduled
services as posted in the Service Booklet must be followed to properly care for your vehicle.


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Wheels
Replace rims or tires with the same designation, manufacturer and type as shown on the original part. See your
authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for further information. See your authorized Mercedes- Benz dealer for information
on tested and recommended rims and tires for summer and wi nter operation. They can also offer advice concerning
tire service and purchase.


Tire Replacement
Front tires should be replaced in sets. Furthermore - in the event of tire replacement - the spare wheel (except model
C 43 AMG), if possible, should be used on the rear axle. Ri ms and tires must be of the correct size and type. For
dimensions, see "Technical Data". We recommend that y ou break in new tires for approx. 60 miles (100 km) at
moderate speed. It is imperative that the wheel mounting bolts be fastened to a tightening torque of 80 ft.lb. (110 Nm)
whenever wheels are mounted. For rim and tire specifications, refer to "Technical Data".

Warning !
Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire tread is badly worn, or if the tires have sustained damage,
replace them. When replacing rims, use only 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.


Rotating Wheels
Rotation of wheels with summer tires does not apply to m odel C 43 AMG. The wheels can be rotated according to the
degree of tire wear while retaining the same direction of travel. Rotating, however, should be carried out at the
scheduled service intervals, before the characteristic tire wear pattern (shoulder wear on front wheels and tread
center wear on rear wheels) becomes visible, as otherwise the driving properties

Important !
Unidirectional tires must always be mounted with arrow on tire sidewall pointing in direction of vehicle forward
movement. Notes: Thoroughly clean the inner side of the w heels any time you rotate the wheels or wash the vehicle
underside. The use of retread tires is not recommended. Retread tires may adversely affect the handling
characteristics and safety of the vehicle. Dented or bent rims can cause tire pressure loss and damage to the tire
beads. For this reason, check rims for damage at regular in tervals. The rim flanges must be checked for wear before
a tire is mounted. Remove burrs, if any. Check and correct ti re inflation pressure after rotating the wheels. For Tire
Inflation Pressure refer to Index.


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Engine Oils
Engine oils are specifically tested for their suitability in our engines. Therefore, use only engine oils recommended by
Mercedes-Benz. Information on recommended brands is av ailable at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. Please
follow service Booklet recommendations for scheduled oil ch anges. Failure to do so could result in engine damage
not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.


Engine Oil Additives
Do not blend oil additives with engine oil. They may be harmful to the engine operation. Damage or malfunctions
resulting from blending oil additives are not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.


Air Conditioner Refrigerant
R-134a (HFC) refrigerant and special PAG lubricating oil is used in the air conditioner system. Never use R-12 (CFC)
or mineral based lubricating oil, otherwise damage to the system will occur.


Brake Fluid
During vehicle operation, the boiling poin t of the brake fluid is continuously reduced through the absorption of
moisture from the atmosphere. Under extremely hard operati ng conditions, this moisture content can lead to the
formation of bubbles in the system thus reducing the syste m's efficiency. The brake fluid must therefore be replaced
every two years, preferably in the spring. It is recomm ended to use only brake fluid approved by Mercedes- Benz.
Your authorized Mercedes Benz dealer will provide you with additional information.


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