air condition MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class 2000 W202 Owner's Manual

Drive Sensibly - Save Fuel

Fuel consumption, to a great extent, depends on driving habits and operating conditions. To save fuel you should:
• keep tires at the recommended inflation pressures,
• remove unnecessary loads,
• remove roof rack when not in use,
• allow engine to warm up under low load use,
• avoid frequent acceleration and deceleration,
• have all maintenance work performed at regular intervals by an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Fuel consumption is also increased by driving in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic, on short trips and in hilly country.





MERCEDES-BENZ
24 HOUR
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
1-800-FOR MERCEDES
1-0800-367-6372 USA.
1-800-387-0100 Canada









What You Should Know
at the Gas Station


• Fuel:
To prevent fuel vapors from escaping into open air, fully insert filler nozzle unit. Only fill fuel tank until the filler nozzle
unit cuts out - do not overfill. Leaving the engine running and the fuel cap open can cause the "Check Engine" lamp to
illuminate. Use premium unleaded gasoline: Posted Octane Index 91 (Average of 96 RON/86 MON).
Fuel tank capacity approx. 16.4 US gal (62.0 I).
This includes approx. 2.1 US gal (8.0 I) reserve.

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!


• Engine Oil:
Engine oil level check, see Index.
Fill quantity between upper and lower dipstick marking level: 2.1 US qt (2.0 I).
Recommended engine oils, see Index.

• Spark Plugs:
Approved spark plugs, refer to "Technical Data".


• Coolant:
For normal replenishing, use water (potable water quality).
For further information (e.g. anticorrosion/antifreeze), refer to Index.

• Bulbs:
High beam: H1 (55 W),
low beam: H7 (55 W),
low beam: Xenon (optional)
fog lamps: H1 (55 W),
turn signal lamps, parking and standing la mps, front: 2357 NA (28.5/8.3 W/30/2.2 cp),
stop lamps: 21 W/32 cp,
backup lamps: 21 W/32 cp,
turn signal lamps, rear: 21 W/32 cp,
tail, parking, side marker and standing lamp: 5 W/4 cp,
tail and parking lamp, passenger side: 21/4 W,
tail, parking arid rear fog lamp, driver's side: 21/4 W,
license plate lamps: 5 W.

• Tire Pressure:
For tire pressure, refer to tire pressure label inside the fuel filler flap.

• Air Conditioner: R-134a refrigerant and special PAG lubricant, re fer to "Technical Data" (also see Index).

Indicator Lamp Symbols
Function Indicator Lamp
High beam
Battery not being charged properly.
See Index

Warning Lamps
(should go out with the engine running unless)


Exterior lamp failure. See Index

ASR or ESP.
Adjust driving to road condition. See Index

BAS malfunction. See Index
ASR malfunction. See Index

Fluid level for windshield and headlamp
washer system low. See Index
BAS malfunction. See Index
ESP malfunction. See Index
Coolant level low. See Index ABS malfunction. See Index
Engine oil level low. See Index Fasten seat belts. See Index
Brake pads worn down. See Index SRS malfunction. See Index

Brake fluid low (except Canada).
Parking brake engaged. See Index
Telescoping steering column not locked.
See Index

Brake fluid low (Canada only).
Parking brake engaged.
See Index
Engine malfunction indicator lamp. If the
lamp comes on when the engine is running,
it indicates a malfunction of the fuel
management system or emission control
system, or the fuel cap is not closed tight. In
all cases, we recommend that you have the
malfunction checked as soon as possible.
See Index
Additional Function Indicator Lamps in
the Instrument Cluster Function Indicator Lamp on
the Center Console

FSS indicator (distance).
See Index
Passenger Airbag automatically switched
off. See Index

FSS indicator (days).
See Index

Catalytic Converter
Your Mercedes-Benz is equipped with monolithic type catalytic converters, an important element in
conjunction with the oxygen sensors to achieve substantial control of the pollutants in the exhaust
emissions. Keep your vehicl e in proper operating condition by following our recommended
maintenance instructions as outlined in your Service Booklet.


Caution!
To prevent damage to the catalytic converters, use on ly premium unleaded gasoline in this vehicle.
Any noticeable irregularities in engine operation shou ld be repaired promptly. Otherwise, excessive
unburned fuel may reach the catalytic converter causing it to overheat, which could start a fire.



Warning!
As with any vehicle, do not idle, park or operate this vehicle in areas where combustible
materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system,
as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire.

Driving Instructions

Warning !
If you feel a sudden significant vibration or ride disturbance, or you suspect that possible damage
to your vehicle has occurred, you should turn on the hazard flashers, carefully slow down, and drive with
caution to an area which is a safe distance from the roadway.
Inspect the tires and under the vehicle for possible da mage. If the vehicle or tires appear unsafe, have
it towed to the nearest Mercedes-Benz or tire dealer for repairs.

Power Assistance
Warning !
When the engine is not running, the brake and steering systems are without power assistance.
Under these circumstances, a much greater effo rt is necessary to stop or steer the vehicle.


Brakes
Warning !
After driving in heavy rain for some time without applying the brakes or through water deep enough to
wet brake components, the first braking action may be somewhat reduced and increased pedal
pressure may be necessary. Be sure to maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front.
Resting your foot on the brake pedal will cause excessive and premature wear of the brake pads.
It can also result in the brakes overheating th ereby significantly reducing their effectiveness.
It may not be possible to stop the car in sufficient time to avoid an accident.

The condition of the parking brake system is checked each time the vehicle is in the shop for the required service .

If the parking brake is released and the brake warning lamp in the instrument cluster stays on, the brake fluid level in
the reservoir is too low. Brake pad wear or a leak in the system may be the reason for low brake fluid in the reservoir.
Have the brake system inspected at an aut horized Mercedes-Benz dealer immediately.
All checks and maintenance work on the brake system s hould be carried out by an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.
Install only brake pads and brake fluid recommended 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.
This could result in an accident.


Caution !
When driving down long and steep grades, relieve the load on the brakes by shifting into a lower gear. This helps prevent
overheating of the brakes and reduces brak e pad wear. After hard braking, it is advisable to drive on for some time, rather
than
immediately parking, so the air stream will cool down the brakes faster.

Tire Speed Rating

Model C 43 AMG only: This vehicle is factory equipped with "Z"-rated tires. All other models: These vehicles are factory
equipped with "H"-rated tires, which have a European spee d rating of 130 mph (210 km/h). An electronic speed limiter
prevents your vehicle from exceeding the speed rating. Despit e the tire rating, local speed limits should be obeyed. Use
prudent driving speeds appropriate to prevailing conditions.

Warning !

Even when permitted by law, never operate a vehicle at speeds greater than the maximum speed rating of the
tires. Exceeding the maximum speed for which tires are rated can lead to sudden tire failure causing loss of
vehicle control and resulting in personal injury and possible death.



Parking

Warning !
To reduce the risk of personal injury as a result of vehicle movement, before turning off the engine
and leaving the vehicle always:

1. Keep right foot on brake pedal.
2. Firmly depress parking brake pedal.
3. Move the selector lever to position "P".
4. Slowly release brake pedal.
5. Turn front wheels towards the road curb.
6. Turn the key to steering lock position 0 and remove.
7. Take the electronic key and lock vehicle when leaving.

Important !

It is advisable to set the parking brake whenever parking or leaving the vehicle. In addition, move selector lever
to position "P". When parking on hills, always set the parking brake.



Winter Driving Instructions

The most important rule for slippery or icy roads is to driv e sensibly and to avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and steering
maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control system under such conditions.

When the vehicle is in danger of skidding, move selector le ver to position "N". Try to keep the vehicle under control by
corrective steering action. Road salts and chem icals can adversely affect braking efficiency.

Increased pedal force may become necessary to produce t he normal brake effect. We therefore recommend depressing
the brake pedal periodically when travelling at length on salt-strewn roads. This can bring road salt impaired
braking efficiency back to normal. A prerequisite is, however, that this is done without endangering other drivers on the
road. If the vehicle is parked after being driven on salt treated roads, the braking efficiency should be tested as soon as
possible after driving is resumed while observi ng the safety rules in the previous paragraph.


Warning !
If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow, make sure that snow is kept clear of the exhaust pipe and from
around the vehicle with engine running. Otherwise, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter
vehicle interior resulting in unconsciousness and death. To assure sufficient fresh air ventilation, open
a window slightly on the side of the car that is out of the wind.



Deep Water

Caution !
Do riot drive through flooded areas or water of unknown dept h. If you must drive through deep water, drive slowly to
prevent water from entering the engine compartment or being ingested by the air intake, possibly causing damage to
electrical components or wiring, to engine or transmission t hat is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.


Passenger Compartment


Warning !
Always fasten items being carried as securely as possible. In an accident, during hard braking or sudden
maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle, and cause injury to vehicle occupants unless
the items are securely fastened in the vehicle. The trunk is the preferred place to carry objects.

Basic Setting - Heater

Select temperature for each side of the passenger compartment.
Select air volume with control switch, set at least to position 2 to
prevent windows from fogging up. Set air distribution control switch to
position shown above.
Turn side air outlets (4) to the detent position.
Open center air outlets as desired.


Basic Setting - Air Conditioner

Select temperature for each side of the passenger compartment.
Select air volume with control switch, at least to position 1 to start
the air conditioner. Set air distribution control switch to position
Open center air outlets .
Open left and right side air outlets .


Special Settings (use only for short duration)

Defrosting
Set temperature selectors and switches for air volume and air distribution to position
.

Close center air outlets.
Turn wheels (2) to position to open left and right side air outlets (4).
Adjust side air outlets upward.

Defogging Windows

Windows fogged up on inside
Switch off economy mode Indicator lamp goes out.
Switch off air recirculation . Indicator lamp goes out.
Set air distribution control switch to position .
Increase air volume with control switch.
Close center air outlets.
Turn wheels (2) to position to open left and right side
air outlets (4). Adjust side air outlets upward.

Windshield fogged up on outside
Switch on windshield wipers. Set air distribution control switch to position or


Economy
The function of this setting corresponds to the air conditioning mode. However, because the air
conditioning compressor will not engage (fuel savings), it is not possible to air condition in this setting.
Press button to activate.
Press button once again to return to previous setting.


Climate Control - OFF
To switch the climate control off, set air volume control switch to position 0.
The fresh air supply to the vehicle interior is shut off. While driving, use this setting only
temporarily, otherwise the windshield could fog up.


Rear Window Defroster
Turn electronic key in steering lock to position 2.
To select, press button.
To cancel, press button again.
Note:
Heavy accumulation of snow and ice should be removed before activating the defroster.
The rear window defroster uses a large amount of power. To keep the battery drain to a minimum,
turn off the defroster as soon as the window is clear.
The defroster is automatically turned off after a maximum of 12 minutes of operation.
If several power consumers are turned on simultaneously, or the battery is only partially charged, it is possible
that the defroster will automatically turn itself off. When this happens, the indicator lamp inside the switch starts
blinking. As soon as the battery has sufficient voltage, the defroster automatically turns itself back on.

Air Recirculation
This mode can be selected to temporarily reduce the entry of annoying odours or dust from vehicle's interior.
Outside air is not supplied to the car's interior.
To select, press button.
To cancel, press button again.
The system will automatically switch from recirculated air to fresh air
• after approx. 5 minutes at outside temperatures below approx. 40°F (5°C),
• after approx. 30 minutes, at outside temperatures above approx. 40°F (5°C),
• after approx. 5 minutes, if button is pressed.
At hight ouside temperatures, the system automatically engages the recirculated air mode for approx.
30 minutes, thereby increasing the cooling capacity performance. Press button again to extend the recirculated
air mode.

Residual Engine Heat Utilization
With the engine switched off, it is possible to continue heating the interior for a short while.
Air volume is controlled automatically
To select:
Turn electronic key in steering lock to position 1 or 0 or remove . Close air outlet in rear passenger compartment.
Press button. Indicator lamp in the button lights up.
This function selection will not activate if the battery charge level is insufficient.
To cancel:
Press button. Indicator lamp in the button goes out
The system will automatically shut off
• if you turn key in steering lock to position 2,
• after approx. 30 minutes,
• if the battery voltage drops.


Dust Filter
Nearly all dust particles and pollen are filtered out before outside air enters the passenger compartment through the
air distribution system.

Note:
Keep the air intake grille in front of windshield free of snow and debris.

Important !
This vehicle is equipped with an air conditioner system that uses R-134a (HFC: hydrofluorocarbon)
as a refrigerant. Repairs should always be performed by a qualified technician, and refrigerant
should be collected in a recovery system for recycling.

Automatic Climate Control
(Models C 280 and C43 AMG)



The system is always at operational readiness, except when manually
switched off. The automatic climate control only operates with the engine
running. The temperature selector should be left at the desired temperature
setting.
The temperature selected is reached as quickly as possible. The system
will not heat or cool any quicker by setting a higher or lower temperature.


1. Air volume control for center air outlet,
turn wheel up to open
2. Air volume control for side air outlet.
To open air outlets:
Turn wheel to position
3. Center air outlets, adjustable
4. Side air outlets, adjustable
5. Display and Controls



The automatic climate control removes considerable moisture from the air during operation in the cooling mode.
It is normal for water to drip on the ground through ducts in the underbody.

Important !
This vehicle is equipped with an air conditioner system that uses HFC-134a (HFC hydrofluorocarbon) as a refrigerant.
Repairs should always be performed by a qualified technician, and refrigerant should be collected in a recovery
system for recycling.