roof MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS SEDAN 2012 Owner's Manual

being injured by the opening or closing
procedure.
The rear roller sunblind is equipped with
automatic operation and the anti-entrapment
feature. If the movement of the rear roller
sunblind is blocked during the closing
procedure, the rear roller sunblind will stop
and retract slightly.
The opening or closing of the rear roller
sunblind can be immediately halted by
releasing the sunblind switch or, if the
sunblind switch was moved past the
resistance point and released, by pressing or
pulling the sunblind switch again.
Door control panel in rear
XTo open/close manually: press or pull
switch : to the point of resistance and
hold it until the rear roller sunblind has
reached the desired position.XTo open/close fully: press or pull
switch : beyond the point of resistance
and release it.
i You can stop automatic operation by
operating the switch again.
Resetting the panorama roof with
power tilt/sliding panel or the front
roller sunblind
Reset the panorama roof with power tilt/
sliding panel or the front roller sunblind if the
panorama roof with power tilt/sliding panel
or the roller sunblinds do not move smoothly.
! Do not open the panorama roof with
power tilt/sliding panel until it has been
reset correctly. The panorama roof with
power tilt/sliding panel can otherwise be
locked in the open position.XTurn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the
ignition lock.XPull the 3 switch repeatedly to the point
of resistance in the direction of arrow
= (Y page 100) until the panorama roof
with power tilt/sliding panel is fully closed.XKeep the 3 switch pulled for an
additional second.XPull the 3 switch in the direction of
arrow =(Y page 101) repeatedly until the
front roller sunblind is closed.XKeep the 3 switch pulled for an
additional second.XMake sure that the panorama roof with
power tilt/sliding panel ( Y page 100) and
the front roller sunblind ( Y page 101) can
be fully opened again.XIf this is not the case, repeat the steps
above again.
Resetting the rear sunblind
Door control panel in rear
XTurn the SmartKey to position 1 or 2 in the
ignition lock.XPull switch : repeatedly until the rear
roller sunblind is fully closed.XKeep switch : pulled for an additional
second.102Sliding sunroofOpening/closing

XMake sure that the rear roller sunblind can
be opened fully again ( Y page 101).XIf this is not the case, repeat the steps
above again.
Problems with the sliding sunroof
Your vehicle may be equipped with a sliding
sunroof or a panorama roof with power tilt/
sliding panel. In the following section, the
term "sliding sunroof" refers to both types of
sliding sunroof.
Problem: the sunroof cannot be closed
and you cannot see the cause.
GWARNING
You could be severely or even fatally injured
when closing the sliding sunroof with
increased closing force or if the anti-
entrapment feature is deactivated. Make sure
that nobody can become trapped when
closing the sliding sunroof.
If the sliding sunroof is obstructed during
closing and reopens again slightly:
XImmediately after the sliding sunroof
blocks, pull the 3 switch in the
overhead control panel down to the point
of resistance and hold it until the sliding
sunroof is closed.
The sliding sunroof is closed with increased
force.
If the sliding sunroof is obstructed again
during closing and reopens again slightly:
XImmediately after the sliding sunroof
blocks, pull the 3 switch in the
overhead control panel down to the point
of resistance and hold it until the sliding
sunroof is closed.
The sliding sunroof is closed without the
anti-entrapment feature.GWARNING
Pressing and holding the sliding sunroof
switch to close the sliding sunroof
immediately after it had been blocked two
times will cause the sliding sunroof to close
without the anti-entrapment feature for as
long as you hold the switch.
! If the sliding sunroof still cannot be
opened or closed as a result of a
malfunction, contact a qualified specialist
workshop.Sliding sunroof103Opening/closingZ

Switching the seat heating on/off
Switching on/offGWARNING
Repeatedly setting the seat heating to level
3 may result in excessive seat temperatures.
The health of passengers that have limited
temperature sensitivity or a limited ability to
react to excessively high temperatures may
be affected or they may even suffer burn-like
injuries. Therefore, do not use seat heating
level 3 repeatedly.
The three red indicator lamps in the button
indicate the heating level you have selected.
i If the battery voltage is too low, the seat
heating may switch off.
The system automatically switches down
from level 3 to level 2 after approximately
eight minutes.
The system automatically switches down
from level 2 to level 1 after approximately ten
minutes.
The system automatically switches off
approximately 20 minutes after it is set to
level 1.
XMake sure that the SmartKey is in position
1 or 2 in the ignition lock.XTo switch on: press button : repeatedly
until the desired heating level is set.XTo switch off: press button : repeatedly
until all the indicator lamps go out.Problems with the seat heating
The seat heating has switched itself off
prematurely. The vehicle's electrical system
voltage is too low because too many electrical
consumers are switched on.
XSwitch off electrical consumers that you do
not need, such as the rear window
defroster or interior lighting.
Switching the seat ventilation on/off
Switching on/off
The three blue indicator lamps in the buttons
indicate the ventilation level you have
selected.
i If the battery voltage is too low, the seat
ventilation may switch off.
XMake sure that the SmartKey is in position
2 in the ignition lock.XTo switch on: press button : repeatedly
until the desired ventilation level is set.
i You can open the side windows and the
sliding sunroof using the "Convenience
opening" feature ( Y page 96). The seat
ventilation of the driver's seat
automatically switches to the highest level.
XTo switch off: press button : repeatedly
until all the indicator lamps go out.Seats113Seats, steering wheel and mirrorsZ

Useful information
i This Operator's Manual describes all
models and all standard and optional
equipment of your vehicle available at the
time of publication of the Operator's
Manual. Country-specific differences are
possible. Please note that your vehicle may
not be equipped with all features
described. This also applies to safety-
related systems and functions.
i Please read the information on qualified
specialist workshops ( Y page 31).
Overview of climate control systems
Important safety notes
GWARNING
Severe conditions (e.g. strong air pollution)
may require replacement of the filter before
its scheduled replacement interval. A clogged
filter will reduce the air volume to the interior
and the windows could fog up, impairing
visibility and endangering you and others.
Have a blocked filter replaced at a Mercedes-
Benz Center as soon as possible.
GWARNING
Follow the recommended settings for heating
and cooling given on the following pages.
Otherwise, the windows could fog up,
impairing visibility and endangering you and
others.
Automatic climate control controls the
temperature and the humidity in the vehicle
interior and filters undesirable substances
from the air.
Automatic climate control is only operational
when the engine is running 16
. Optimum
operation is only achieved if you drive with the
side windows and sliding sunroof/panorama
roof with power tilt/sliding panel closed.
You can also set some automatic climate
control functions via COMAND (Y page 269).
i Ventilate the vehicle for a brief period
during warm weather, e.g. using the
convenience opening feature ( Y page 96).
This will speed up the cooling process and
the desired vehicle interior temperature
will be reached more quickly.
i The integrated filter can filter out most
particles of dust, and completely filters out
pollen. A clogged filter reduces the amount
of air supplied to the vehicle interior. For
this reason, you should always observe the
interval for replacing the filter, which is
specified in the Maintenance Booklet. As it
depends on environmental conditions, e.g.
heavy air pollution, the interval may be
shorter than stated in the Maintenance
Booklet.
i It is possible that the blower may be
activated automatically 40 minutes after
the SmartKey is removed. The vehicle is
then ventilated for 30 minutes to dry the
air-conditioning system.16 The residual heat function can only be activated/deactivated if the ignition is switched off.294Overview of climate control systemsClimate control

Setting the rear-compartment airflow
using the front control panelXTurn the SmartKey to position 2 in the
ignition lock.XActivate the Y rear compartment
function via COMAND ( Y page 273).
The rear-compartment climate control can
be controlled via the front control panel
using the Y rear compartment function.XTo increase/reduce: press the K
rocker switch up or down.
Setting the rear-compartment airflow
using the rear control panel
XTurn the SmartKey to position 2 in the
ignition lock.XTo increase/reduce: press rocker switch
J up or down ( Y page 295).
Defrosting the windshield
You can use this function to defrost the
windshield or to defrost the inside of the
windshield and the side windows.
i You should only select the defrosting
function until the windshield is clear again.
XTurn the SmartKey to position 2 in the
ignition lock.XTo switch on: press the ¬ rocker
switch up or down.
The indicator lamp in the ¬ rocker
switch lights up.
The climate control system switches to the
following functions:
R cooling with air dehumidification on
R high airflow 17
R high temperature 17
R air distribution to the windshield and
front side windows
R air-recirculation mode offXTo deactivate: press the ¬ rocker
switch up or down.
The indicator lamp in the ¬ rocker
switch goes out. The previously selected
settings come into effect again. The cooling
with air dehumidification function remains
on. Air-recirculation mode remains
deactivated.
or
XPress the w rocker switch up or down.
or
XPress the K rocker switch up or down.
MAX COOL maximum cooling
The MAX COOL function is only available in
vehicles for the USA.
MAX COOL is only operational when the
engine is running.
The MAX COOL function is activated
automatically:
R if climate control is set to automatic
( Ã ) on both sides
R if additional cooling is used
The display shows MAX COOL.
This is the quickest way to cool the vehicle
interior when the sliding sunroof and the side
windows are closed.
Defrosting the windows
Windows fogged up on the inside
XActivate the cooling with air
dehumidification function via COMAND
( Y page 271).XActivate automatic mode Ã.XIf the windows continue to fog up, activate
the defrosting function ( Y page 300).
i
You should only select this setting until
the windshield is clear again.
17 Depending on the outside temperature.300Operating the climate control systemsClimate control

Driving tips
General driving tips
Important safety notes
GWARNING
Always remember that you must concentrate
primarily on driving the vehicle. The driver's
concentration must always be directed
primarily at road traffic. For your own safety
and that of others, we recommend that you
stop the vehicle at a safe place and in
accordance with the traffic conditions before
making or accepting a phone call.
Comply with all legal requirements if you use
the telephone while driving. Use the hands-
free system and only use the telephone when
road, weather and traffic conditions permit. In
some jurisdictions, it is forbidden for drivers
to use mobile phones while driving.
Only operate COMAND (Cockpit Management
and Data System) in compliance with all legal
requirements and when the road, weather and
traffic conditions permit. You may otherwise
not be able to observe the traffic conditions,
endangering yourself and others.
Remember that your vehicle covers a distance
of 44 ft (approximately 14 m) a second when
it is traveling at only 30 mph (approximately
50 km/h).
Drive sensibly – save fuel
Observe the following tips to save fuel:
XThe tires should always be inflated to the
recommended tire pressure.XRemove unnecessary loads.XRemove roof racks when they are not
needed.XWarm up the engine at low engine speeds.XAvoid frequent acceleration or braking.XHave all maintenance work carried out as
indicated by the service intervals in the
Maintenance Booklet or by the service
interval display.Fuel consumption also increases when
driving in cold weather, in stop-and-go traffic
and in mountainous terrain.
Drinking and drivingGWARNING
Drinking and driving and/or taking drugs and
driving are very dangerous combinations.
Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can
affect your reflexes, perceptions and
judgment.
The possibility of a serious or even fatal
accident are greatly increased when you drink
or take drugs and drive.
Do not drink or take drugs and drive or allow
anyone to drive who has been drinking or
taking drugs.
Pedals
GWARNING
Make sure absolutely no objects are
obstructing the pedals' range of movement.
Keep the driver's footwell clear of all
obstacles. If there are any floormats or
carpets in the footwell, make sure that the
pedals still have sufficient clearance.
During sudden driving or braking maneuvers,
the objects could get caught between the
pedals. You could then no longer brake or
accelerate. This could lead to accidents and
injury.
Rolling with the engine switched off
GWARNING
There is no power assistance for the steering
and the brake when the engine is not running.
Steering and braking requires significantly
more effort and you could lose control of the
vehicle and cause an accident as a result.
Do not turn off the engine while the vehicle is
in motion.
330Driving tipsDriving and parking

Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified
specialist workshop at the onset of winter.
Observe the notes in the "Winter operation"
section ( Y page 494).
Driving with summer tires
Observe the notes in the "Winter operation"
section ( Y page 494).
Slippery road surfaces
GWARNING
The outside temperature indicator is not
designed to serve as an ice-warning device
and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose.
Indicated temperatures just above the
freezing point do not guarantee that the road
surface is free of ice. The road may still be icy,
especially in wooded areas or on bridges.
GWARNING
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.
Drive particularly carefully on slippery road
surfaces. Avoid sudden acceleration, steering
and braking maneuvers. Do not use the cruise
control or DISTRONIC PLUS.
If the vehicle threatens to skid or cannot be
stopped when moving at low speed:
XShift the transmission to position N.
i
For more information on driving with
snow chains, see ( Y page 495).
GWARNING
Make sure that you do not endanger other
road users when you apply the brakes.
Driving systems
Cruise control
Important safety notes
Cruise control maintains a constant road
speed for you. It brakes automatically in order
to avoid exceeding the set speed. On long and
steep downhill gradients, especially if the
vehicle is laden, you must select shift range
1 , 2 or 3 in good time. By doing so, you will
make use of the braking effect of the engine,
which relieves the load on the brake system
and prevents the brakes from overheating
and wearing too quickly.
Use cruise control only if road and traffic
conditions make it appropriate to maintain a
steady speed for a prolonged period. You can
store any road speed above 20 mph
(30 km/h).
GWARNING
The cruise control is a convenience system
designed to assist the driver during vehicle
operation. The driver is and must always
remain responsible for the vehicle's speed
and for safe brake operation.
Only use the cruise control if the road, traffic,
and weather conditions make it advisable to
travel at a constant speed.
R The use of the cruise control can be
dangerous on winding roads or in heavy
traffic because conditions do not allow safe
driving at a constant speed.
R The use of the cruise control can be
dangerous on slippery roads. Rapid
changes in tire traction can result in wheel
spin and loss of control.
R Deactivate the cruise control when driving
in fog.
The "Resume" function should only be
operated if the driver is fully aware of the
previously set speed and wishes to resume
this particular preset speed.
334Driving systemsDriving and parking

XPull bag hook ; down by tab :.
Stowage well under the trunk floor
Stowage well
You can store a suitcase in the stowage well
underneath the front section of the trunk
floor.
! Fold down the suitcase handle before
closing the trunk. You could otherwise
damage the trunk lid.
:Trunk floor;Stowage well for suitcases
Rear stowage compartment
In the S 600 model, you can fold the rear part
of the trunk floor forwards.
:Stowage well;Stowage compartment
Roof carrier
Important safety notes
GWARNING
Only use roof racks approved by Mercedes-
Benz for your vehicle model to avoid damage
to the vehicle.
Follow the manufacturer's installation
instructions. Otherwise, an improperly
attached roof rack system or its load could
become detached from the vehicle.
Do not exceed the maximum roof load of
220 lb (100 kg).
Take into consideration that when the roof
rack is loaded, the handling characteristics
are different from those when operating the
vehicle without the roof rack loaded.
! Mercedes-Benz recommends that you
only use roof carriers that have been tested
and approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
This helps to prevent damage to the
vehicle.
Position the load on the roof carrier in such
a way that the vehicle will not sustain
damage even when it is in motion.
438Stowage areasStowage and features

Depending on the vehicle equipment,
ensure that when the roof carrier is
installed you can:
R raise the sliding sunroof fully
R open the panorama roof with power tilt/
sliding panel fully
R open the trunk lid fully
Attaching the roof carrierXOpen covers : carefully in the direction of
the arrow.XFold covers : upwards.XOnly secure the roof carrier to the
anchorage points under covers :.XObserve the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
Features
Cup holders
Important safety notes
GWARNING
In order to help prevent spilling liquids on
vehicle occupants and/or vehicle equipment,
only use containers that fit into the cup
holder. Use lids on open containers and do
not fill containers to a height where the
contents, especially hot liquids, could spill
during braking, vehicle maneuvers, or in an
accident. Liquids spilled on vehicle occupants
may cause serious personal injury. Liquids
spilled on vehicle equipment may cause
damage not covered by the Mercedes-Benz
Limited Warranty.
When not in use, keep the cup holder closed.
An open cup holder may cause injury to you
or others when contacted during braking,
vehicle maneuvers, or in an accident.
Keep in mind that objects placed in the cup
holder may come loose during braking,
vehicle maneuvers, or in an accident and be
thrown around in the vehicle interior. Objects
thrown around in the vehicle interior may
cause an accident and/or serious personal
injury.
Cup holder in the front-compartment
center console
You can remove the cup holder to clean it.
Clean with clear, lukewarm water only.
XTo open: press marking :.XTo remove: slide catch ; back and pull
the cup holder upwards.XTo insert: insert the cup holder and slide
catch ; forwards.
Cup holder in the rear seat armrest
!
Do not sit on or support your body weight
on the rear seat armrest when it is folded
down, as you could otherwise damage it.
! Close the cup holder before folding the
rear seat armrest up. Otherwise, the cup
holder could be damaged.
Features439Stowage and featuresZ

position P automatically and locks the
wheels. You can prevent this by shifting
the automatic transmission to N
beforehand.
R Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO:
Do not open the driver's door or front-
passenger door when the engine is
switched off. Otherwise, the automatic
transmission selects park position P
automatically and locks the wheels.
Observe the following to make sure that the
automatic transmission stays in position N:XMake sure the vehicle is stationary and the
ignition is switched off.XTurn the key to position 2(Y page 307) in
the ignition lock.
Use the SmartKey instead of the Start/
Stop button on vehicles with KEYLESS-GO.XDepress and hold the brake pedal.XShift the automatic transmission to
position N.XRelease the brake pedal.XRelease the electric parking brake.XSwitch off the ignition and leave the
SmartKey in the ignition lock.
! Make sure that:
R the side windows and the sliding sunroof
are fully closed.
R the ventilation/heating is switched off
(the OFF button has been pressed).
R the windshield wiper switch is in position
0 .
Otherwise, the vehicle might be damaged.
After using an automatic car wash, wipe off
wax from the windshield and the wiper
blades. This will prevent smears and reduce
wiping noises caused by residue on the
windshield.
Washing by hand
In some countries, washing by hand is only
allowed at specially equipped washing bays.
Observe the legal requirements in all
countries concerned.XDo not use hot water and do not wash the
vehicle in direct sunlight.XUse a soft sponge to clean.XUse a mild cleaning agent, such as a car
shampoo approved by Mercedes-Benz.XThoroughly hose down the vehicle with a
gentle jet of water.XDo not point the water jet directly towards
the air inlet.XUse plenty of water and rinse out the
sponge frequently.XRinse the vehicle with clean water and dry
thoroughly with a chamois.XDo not let the cleaning agent dry on the
paintwork.
When using the vehicle in winter, remove all
traces of road salt deposits carefully and as
soon as possible.
Power washers
GWARNING
Do not use power washers with circular-jet
nozzles (dirt grinders) to clean your vehicle, in
particular the tires. You could otherwise
damage the tires and cause an accident.
! Always maintain a distance of at least
11.8 in (30 cm) between the vehicle and the
power washer nozzle. Information about
the correct distance is available from the
equipment manufacturer.
Move the power washer nozzle around
when cleaning your vehicle.
Do not aim directly at any of the following:
R tires
R door gaps, roof gaps, joints, etc.
R electrical components
R battery
R connectors
R lights
R seals
Care467Maintenance and careZ