length MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class 2011 W221 Owner's Manual

Do not drive the vehicle without the seat head
restraints. Head restraints are intended to
help reduce injuries during an accident.
! To avoid damage to the seats and the seat
heating, observe the following information:
Rdo not spill any liquids on the seats. If
liquid is spilled on the seats, dry them as
soon as possible.
Rif the seat covers are damp or wet, do not
switch on the seat heating. The seat
heating should also not to be used to dry
the seats.
Rclean the seat covers as recommended;
see the "Interior care" section.
Rdo not transport heavy loads on the
seats. Do not place sharp objects on the
seat cushions, e.g. knives, nails or tools.
The seats should only be occupied by
passengers, if possible.
Rwhen the seat heating is in operation, do
not cover the seats with insulating
materials, e.g. blankets, coats, bags,
seat covers, child seats or booster seats.
! When you move the seats, make sure that
there are no objects in the footwell or
behind the seats. Otherwise, you could
damage the seats and the objects.
iThe head restraints in the front seats are
installed with the NECK-PRO system. For
this reason, it is not possible to remove the
head restraints from the front seats.
For design reasons, the rear-compartment
head restraints cannot be removed.
Please contact an authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center for more information.
Adjusting the seats:Head restraint height;Seat height=Seat cushion angle?Seat cushion lengthASeat fore-and-aft adjustmentBBackrest angle
iIf PRE-SAFE® has been activated, the
front-passenger seat and the electrically
adjustable rear seats are moved into a
more favorable position.
iYou can store the seat settings using the
memory function (Y page 111).
iTo ensure the largest possible range of
seat settings, certain seat adjustment
functions will automatically activate other
seat adjustment functions.
iDepending on the seat fore-and-aft
setting, the head restraint height is
adjusted automatically.
Adjusting the rear seats electrically
You can only adjust the outer seats in the rear
electrically.
102SeatsSeats, steering wheel and mirrors

XSelect Continue Route Guidance and
press W to confirm.
COMAND calculates the route.
Destination or area of destination
reached
When you reach your destination, COMAND
displays a checkered flag and route guidance
is automatically ended.
For certain points of interest (e.g. airports),
you will see the Area of destination
reached message in addition to the
checkered flag.
Navigation announcements
Repeating navigation announcements
GWarning
Navigation announcements are intended to
direct you while driving without diverting your
attention from the road and driving.
Please always use this feature instead of
consulting the map display for directions.
Looking at the icons or map display can
distract you from traffic conditions and
driving, and increase the risk of an accident.
i Audible navigation announcements are
muted during a telephone call.
If you have missed an announcement, you can
call up the current announcement at any
time.
XTo show the menu: press W the COMAND
controller.XConfirm RPT in the navigation menu by
pressing W.
Switching navigation announcements
on/off
XTo switch off: press the 8 button
during an announcement.
You will briefly see the message: The
driving instructions have been
muted .XTo switch on: press W the COMAND
controller.XConfirm + in the navigation menu by
pressing W.
i COMAND automatically switches the
navigation announcements back on when:
R you have a new route calculated.
R you start the engine again after having
left the vehicle.
Reducing volume during a navigation
announcement
The volume of an active radio or video source
can be automatically reduced during a
navigation announcement.
XSelect Navi in the main function bar by
sliding ZV and turning cVd the COMAND
controller and press W to confirm.XSelect Audio Fadeout and press W to
confirm.
The function is switched on O or off ª,
depending on the previous status.
Setting the volume manually
XAdjust the volume during a navigation
announcement.
or
XSelect + in the map view with the menu
shown and adjust the volume.
Avoiding a section of the route blocked
by a traffic jam
This function blocks a section of the route
ahead of you. The length of the section of
route to be blocked can be adjusted. If
possible, COMAND calculates a detour
around the blocked section of the route.
XTo switch on navigation mode: press the
S function button once or twice.XTo show the menu: press the COMAND
controller W.168NavigationCOMAND

XSelect Route in the navigation menu bar by
turning cVd the COMAND controller and
press W to confirm.
XSelect Detour and press W to confirm.XTo block a section of the route: select
More or Less repeatedly and confirm using
the W button until the desired section has
been selected.
iThe length of the blockable route section
is predetermined by the digital map. The
menu items are available accordingly.
XTo start route calculation: select Start
and press W to confirm.
XTo delete the blocked section: select
Delete while the message is shown and
press W to confirm.
COMAND calculates the route without the
block.
Selecting an alternative route
With the "Alternative route" function, routes
other than the original one can be calculated.
XTo switch on navigation mode: press the
S function button once or twice.
XTo show the menu: press W the COMAND
controller.
XSelect Route in the navigation menu bar by
turning cVd the COMAND controller and
press W to confirm.
XSelect Alternative Route and press W
to confirm.
You see the selected route. The display now
shows a split-screen view. On the left-hand
side, one or more alternative routes are
shown from start to destination. The
current route is highlighted dark blue; other
alternative routes appear light blue.
:Distance, estimated time of arrival and
estimated remaining driving time
;Display of events on the route=Display of selected route settingXTo select the next or previous
alternative route: select Next or
Previous and press W to confirm.
The possible alternative routes are shown
in this order: Current Route, Fast
Route, Eco Route, Short Route and
Alternative Route.
XTo select the original route: select Back
as often as necessary and press W to
confirm.
XTo start route guidance using the
selected alternative route: select Start
and press W to confirm.
COMAND accepts the alternative route.
Displaying destination information
Requirement: you have entered a destination
(Y page 151) and possibly an intermediate
stop (Y page 158).
XTo switch on navigation mode: press the
S function button once or twice.
XTo show the menu: press W the COMAND
controller.
XSelect Info in the navigation menu bar by
turning cVd the COMAND controller and
press W to confirm.
Destination information is displayed.
Navigation169COMANDZ

Icon for real-time traffic reportsIconDescriptionTraffic reports in the map displayWarning (red)N/ACaution (yellow)N/ATraffic jam on the
route (slow moving
traffic)
Appears when approaching a traffic jam (average
speed between 25 – 45 mph) if route guidance is
active and the route passes through the area
affected by the traffic jam.
This icon may appear in conjunction with yellow
vehicle icons.
Traffic jam on the
route
Appears when approaching a traffic jam (average
speed between 5 and 20 mph) if route guidance is
active and the route passes through the area
affected by the traffic jam.
This icon may appear in conjunction with red
vehicle icons.
Blocked section on
route
Appears at the beginning of a blocked section if
route guidance is active and the route passes
through the blocked area.
The XXXX icons can appear in conjunction with this
icon.
Yellow line
with arrows
IncidentsPossible traffic blocks (e.g. roadwork)
Appears on the side of the road affected (arrows
indicate direction of traffic flow)
Green line
with arrows
Unimpeded traffic
flow
No traffic blocks
Appears only on the side of the road with
unimpeded traffic flow (arrows indicate the
direction of traffic flow)
Traffic jam on route
(stop-and-go) (yellow
vehicle)
High volume of traffic, average speed
40 – 72 km/h (25 – 45 mph). In order to indicate
the volume of traffic, more than one symbol may
appear.
Traffic jam on route
(stop-and-go) (yellow
vehicle)
Very high volume of traffic, average speed
8 – 32 km/h (5 – 20 mph).
XXXXBlocked route sectionUnusable section of road. In order to indicate the
length of the blocked section, more than one
symbol may appear.
Navigation173COMANDZ

lock is in position 1 or if the ignition is
switched on using the Start/Stop button.
Releasing the electric parking brake
automatically
The electric parking brake is released
automatically when the following conditions
are simultaneously fulfilled:
R the engine is running.
R the automatic transmission is in position
D or R.
R the hood is closed.
R your seat belt is fastened.
R you depress the accelerator pedal.
If the automatic transmission is in position
R , the trunk lid must be closed.
For the parking brake to be released
automatically if your seat belt is not fastened,
the following conditions must be fulfilled:
R the driver's door is closed.
R you shift out of P or you have previously
driven faster than 2 mph (3 km/h).
Engaging the electric parking brake
manually
XPush handle :.
The red F indicator lamp (USA only) or
the red ! indicator lamp (Canada only)
in the instrument cluster lights up.
i The electric parking brake can also be
applied even if the SmartKey has been
removed.
Engaging the electric parking brake
automatically
The electric parking brake is automatically
applied if HOLD or DISTRONIC PLUS brakes
the vehicle until it is stationary and at least
one of the following conditions is fulfilled:
R the engine is switched off.
R the driver's door is open and the seat belt
is not fastened.
R the hood is released.
R the trunk lid is opened while the automatic
transmission is in position R.
R the vehicle is stationary for a lengthy
period.
The red F indicator lamp (USA only) or the
red ! indicator lamp (Canada only) in the
instrument cluster lights up.
i In addition to the electric parking brake,
P may also be engaged automatically.
Emergency braking with the electric
parking brake
The vehicle can also be braked during an
emergency using the electric parking brake.
XWhile driving, push handle : of the electric
parking brake ( Y page 317).
i
The vehicle is braked as long as you keep
the handle of the electric parking brake
pressed. The longer the electric parking
brake handle is depressed, the greater the
braking force.
During braking:
R a warning tone sounds.
R the Release parking brake message
appears.
R red F indicator lamp (USA only) or
red ! indicator lamp (Canada only)
appears in the instrument cluster
When the vehicle has been braked to a
standstill, the electric parking brake is
engaged.
Parking up the vehicle
If you leave the vehicle parked up for longer
than four weeks, the battery may be damaged
by exhaustive discharge.
XDisconnect the battery or connect it to a
trickle charger.
i You can obtain information about trickle
chargers from a qualified specialist
318ParkingDriving and parking

Resetting the current lapXPress the W button on the steering
wheel to stop the RACETIMER.
XPress X to reset the lap time to "0”.
Deleting all laps
You cannot delete individual stored laps.
XPress the W button on the steering
wheel to stop the RACETIMER.
XPress and hold the X button for a
minimum of three seconds.
XPress the W button to start the
RACETIMER.
All laps are deleted.
or
XPress the W button on the steering
wheel to stop the RACETIMER.
XPress a.
Reset Race Timer appears in the
multifunction display.
XPress : to select Yes and press a
to confirm.
All laps are deleted.
Overall evaluation
This function is shown if you have stored at
least one lap and stopped the RACETIMER.
XPress = or ; on the steering wheel
to select the AMG menu.
XPress the 9 button repeatedly until the
overall evaluation is shown.
:RACETIMER overall evaluation;Total time driven=Top speed?Distance coveredAAverage speed
Lap evaluation
This function is only available if you have
stored at least two laps and have stopped the
RACETIMER.
XPress = or ; on the steering wheel
to select the AMG menu.
XPress the 9 button repeatedly until the
lap evaluation is shown.
Each lap is shown in a separate submenu.
The fastest lap is indicated by flashing
symbol :.
:Lap;Lap time=Top speed during lap?Lap lengthAAverage lap speedXPress 9 or : to select a different lap
evaluation.
Menus and submenus373On-board computer and displaysZ

XMake sure that the base of the jack is
positioned directly under the jacking point.
XTurn crank ? clockwise until jack = sits
completely on jacking point ; and the
base of the jack lies evenly on the ground.
XTurn crank ? until the tire is raised a
maximum of 1.2 inches (3 centimeters)
from the ground.
Removing a wheel
XUnscrew the uppermost wheel bolt
completely.
XScrew alignment bolt : into the thread
instead of the wheel bolt.
XUnscrew the remaining wheel bolts fully.
! Do not place wheel bolts in sand or on a
dirty surface. The bolt and wheel hub
threads could otherwise be damaged when
you screw them in.
XRemove the wheel.Mounting a new wheelGWarning!
Always replace wheel bolts that are damaged
or rusted.
Never apply oil or grease to wheel bolts.
Damaged wheel hub threads should be
repaired immediately. Do not continue to
drive under these circumstances! Contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call
Roadside Assistance.
Incorrect wheel bolts or improperly tightened
wheel bolts can cause the wheel to come off.
This could cause an accident. Make sure to
use the correct wheel bolts.
GWarning
Only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts.
Other wheel bolts may come loose.
Do not tighten the wheel bolts when the
vehicle is raised. Otherwise, the vehicle could
fall off the jack.
GWarning
Make sure to use the original length wheel
bolts when remounting the original wheel
after it has been repaired.
Wheel bolts for:
:All light-alloy wheels and "Minispare"
emergency spare wheel with light-alloy
wheel
;"Minispare" emergency spare wheel with
steel wheel
466Flat tireRoadside assistance

The maximum permissible distance which
can be driven in run-flat mode depends on the
cargo in the vehicle. You can drive 50 miles
(80 km) if the vehicle is partially laden and
18 miles (30 km) if it is fully laden.
The maximum permissible distance which
can be driven in run-flat mode is counted from
the moment the tire pressure loss warning
appears in the multifunction display.
You must not exceed a maximum speed of
50 mph(80 km/h).GWarning!
The handling characteristics of your vehicle
deteriorate in run-flat mode, for example:
R when cornering
R when braking
R when accelerating rapidly
Adapt your driving style accordingly and avoid
sudden changes in direction and sudden
acceleration, as well as driving over obstacles
(i.e. curbs, potholes), and driving off-road.
This is particularly the case when the vehicle
is heavily laden.
The maximum permissible distance that can
be driven in run-flat mode depends to a large
extent on the loads placed on the vehicle. It
can be shorter due to high speeds, a heavy
cargo, sudden changes in direction, the road
surface condition, outside temperature, etc.,
or further if you drive carefully and
conservatively.
Do not continue to drive in run-flat mode if:
R you hear banging noises.
R the vehicle starts to shake.
R you see smoke and smell rubber.
R ESP ®
is intervening constantly.
R there are tears in the sidewalls of the tire.
After driving in run-flat mode, you must have
the wheel(s) checked for damage at a
qualified specialist workshop which has the
necessary specialist knowledge and tools to
carry out the work required. The faulty tire
must be replaced in every case.
Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for this
purpose. In particular, work relevant to safety
or on safety-related systems must be carried
out at a qualified specialist workshop.
i When replacing one or all tires, make sure
that you only use tires marked
MOExtended and of the specified size for
the vehicle.
Battery
Important safety notes
In order for the battery to achieve the
maximum possible service life, it must always
be sufficiently charged.
! Have the battery checked regularly at a
qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
Observe the service intervals in the Service
Booklet or for further information consult a
qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
Have the battery charge checked more
frequently if you use the vehicle mainly for
short trips or if you leave it standing idle for
a lengthy period.
To prevent damage from corrosion, only
replace the battery with one that has a central
ventilation cover.
Only replace a battery with a battery that has
been recommended by Mercedes-Benz.
Consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center
if you wish to leave your vehicle parked up for
a long period of time.
GWarning
Hybrid vehicles: ensure that you read the
"HYBRID" supplement. You may otherwise fail
to recognize dangers.
GWarning
Comply with safety precautions and take
protective measures when handling batteries.
468BatteryRoadside assistance

Jump-startingGWarning
Failure to follow these directions will cause damage to the electronic components, and can lead
to a battery explosion and severe injury or death.
Never lean over batteries while connecting or jump starting. You might get injured.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow this fluid to come in contact with eyes, skin or
clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with water, and seek medical help if
necessary.
A battery will also produce hydrogen gas, which is flammable and explosive. Keep flames or
sparks away from battery, avoid improper connection of jumper cables, smoking, etc.
Attempting to jump start a frozen battery can result in it exploding, causing personal injury.
Read all instructions before proceeding.
GWarning
Hybrid vehicles: ensure that you read the "HYBRID" supplement. You may otherwise fail to
recognize dangers.
! Avoid repeated and lengthy starting attempts. Otherwise, non-combusted fuel may
damage the catalytic converter 33
and create a risk of fire.
Do not use a rapid-charging device to start the engine.
Make sure the jumper cables are not damaged.
Make sure the jumper cables are not touching any other metal objects when they are
connected to the battery.
If your vehicle's battery is discharged, the engine can be jump-started from another vehicle
or from a second battery using jumper cables.
Observe the following points:
XThe battery is not accessible in all vehicles. If the other vehicle's battery is not accessible,
jump-start the vehicle using a second battery or a jump-starting device.XOnly jump-start the vehicle when the engine and catalytic converter are cold. 34XDo not start the engine if the battery is frozen. Let the battery thaw first.XJump-starting may only be performed from batteries with a nominal voltage of 12 V.
If you jump-start using a battery with higher voltage, it may damage the electrical systems
of the vehicle.XOnly use jumper cables that have a sufficient cross-section and insulated terminal clamps.XMake sure that the jumper cables cannot come into contact with parts, such as the pulley
or the fan. These parts move when the engine is started and while it is running.XIf the battery is fully discharged, leave the battery that is being used to jump-start connected
for a few minutes before attempting to start. This charges the empty battery a little.
i Jumper cables and further information about jump-starting can be obtained from any
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
33 Only vehicles with a gasoline engine.
34 Only vehicles with a gasoline engine.Jump-starting471Roadside assistanceZ

1.34 fl oz (40 ml) MB SummerFit to 1 gal
(4.0 l) of water.XAt temperatures below freezing: add 1
part MB SummerFit to 100 parts washer
fluid, e.g. 1.34 fl oz (40 ml) MB SummerFit
to 1 gal (4.0 l) of water.
Vehicle data
Vehicle data, S 550 CGI
BlueEFFICIENCY
The data quoted here refers specifically to a
vehicle with standard equipment. Contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for the
data for all vehicle variants and trim levels.
Vehicle dimensions, S 550 BlueEFFICIENCYVehicle length206.5 in (5246 mm)Vehicle width
including exterior
mirrors83.5 in (2120 mm)Vehicle height58.2 in (1479 mm)Wheelbase124.6 in (3165 mm)Front track63.0 in (1600 mm)Rear track63.3 in (1606 mm)Ground clearance5.2 in (131 mm)Turning circle40.0 ft (12.2 m)Vehicle weight, S 550 BlueEFFICIENCYMaximum roof
loadMaximum 220 lb
(100 kg)Maximum trunk
loadMaximum 220 lb
(100 kg)Vehicle data, S 550 CGI 4MATIC
BlueEFFICIENCY
The data quoted here refers specifically to a
vehicle with standard equipment. Contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for the
data for all vehicle variants and trim levels.Vehicle dimensions, S 550 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCYVehicle length206.5 in (5246 mm)Vehicle width
including exterior
mirrors83.5 in (2120 mm)Vehicle height58.2 in (1479 mm)Wheelbase124.6 in (3165 mm)Front track63.0 in (1600 mm)Rear track63.3 in (1606 mm)Ground clearance5.2 in (126 mm)Turning circle40.0 ft (12.2 m)Vehicle weight, S 550 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCYMaximum roof
loadMaximum 220 lb
(100 kg)Maximum trunk
loadMaximum 220 lb
(100 kg)
Vehicle data, S 600
The data quoted here refers specifically to a
vehicle with standard equipment. Contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for the
data for all vehicle variants and trim levels.
Vehicle dimensions, S 600Vehicle length206.5 in (5246 mm)Vehicle width
including exterior
mirrors83.5 in (2120 mm)516Vehicle dataTechnical data