stop start MERCEDES-BENZ SLS AMG ROADSTER 2012 Service Manual

Display messagesPossible causes/consequences and M SolutionsBlind Spot Assist
InoperativeBlind Spot Assist is defective.
The yellow 9 indicator lamps also light up in the exterior
mirrors.XVisit a qualified specialist workshop.Blind Spot Assist
Currently
Unavailable See
Operator's ManualBlind Spot Assist is temporarily inoperative if:
R the sensors are dirty.
R its function is impaired due to heavy rain or snow.
R the radar sensor system is outside the operating temperature
range.
R the radar sensor system is temporarily inoperative, e.g. due to
electromagnetic radiation emitted by nearby TV or radio
stations or other sources of electromagnetic radiation.
The yellow 9 indicator lamps also light up in the exterior
mirrors.
Blind Spot Assist is operational again and the display message
disappears if:
R the dirt (e.g. slush) drops away while the vehicle is in motion.
R the system detects that the sensors are fully available again.
R the radar sensor system is back within the operating
temperature range.
If the display message continues to be displayed:XClean the sensors ( Y page 228).XRestart the engine.
Tires
GWARNING
Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You may
lose control of the vehicle. Continued driving with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-up
and possibly a fire.
GWARNING
Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.
Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely affect
handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated.
Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can adversely affect handling and ride comfort, wear
unevenly, increase stopping distance, and result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are
more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes etc.
Displays and operation181On-board computer and displaysZ

Display messagesPossible causes/consequences and M SolutionsTire Press. Monitor
InoperativeThe tire pressure monitor is faulty.XVisit a qualified specialist workshop.Tire Pressure
Monitor
Inoperative No
Wheel SensorsThe wheels mounted do not have a suitable tire pressure sensor.
The tire pressure monitor is deactivated.XMount wheels with suitable tire pressure sensors.
The tire pressure monitor is activated automatically after driving
for a few minutes.Check
TiresGRisk of accident
The tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped significantly.
The wheel position is displayed in the multifunction display.
A warning tone also sounds.
XStop the vehicle without making any sudden steering or braking
maneuvers. Pay attention to the traffic conditions as you do so.XCorrect the tire pressure ( Y page 257).XIf necessary, change a wheel ( Y page 271).Tire Press. Warning
Caution Tire
MalfunctionGRisk of accident
The tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped suddenly. The
wheel position is displayed in the multifunction display.
A warning tone also sounds.
XStop the vehicle without making any sudden steering or braking
maneuvers. Pay attention to the traffic conditions as you do so.XIf necessary, change a wheel ( Y page 271).Correct
Tire PressureThe tire pressure is too low in at least one of the tires or the tire
pressure difference between the wheels is too great.XCheck the tire pressures at the next opportunity. If necessary,
correct the tire pressure ( Y page 257).TirePress.
Sensor(s)MissingThere is no signal from the tire pressure sensor of one or several
wheels. The pressure of the affected tire is not displayed in the
multifunction display.XHave the faulty tire pressure sensor replaced at a qualified
specialist workshop.Tire Press. Monitor
Currently
UnavailableDue to a source of radio interference, no signals can be received
from the wheel sensors. The tire pressure monitor is temporarily
malfunctioning.XDrive on.
The tire pressure monitor restarts automatically as soon as the
problem has been solved.182Displays and operationOn-board computer and displays

SmartKeyDisplay messagesPossible causes/consequences and M Solutions+
Replace Key BatteryThe SmartKey batteries are discharged.XChange the batteries ( Y page 66).+
Key Not Detected
(red display message)The SmartKey is not in the vehicle. A warning tone also sounds.
When you switch off the engine, you will be unable to restart it.XPull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying
attention to road and traffic conditions.XLocate the SmartKey.The SmartKey is not detected while driving because a powerful
radio transmitter is causing interference. A warning tone also
sounds.XPull over and stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, paying
attention to road and traffic conditions.XInsert the SmartKey into the ignition lock and turn it to the
desired position ( Y page 115).+
Key Not Detected
(white display
message)You are in the vehicle and the SmartKey currently cannot be
detected by the vehicle.XChange the location of the SmartKey in the vehicle.
If the SmartKey still cannot be detected:
XInsert the SmartKey into the ignition lock and turn it to the
desired position ( Y page 115).+
Obtain a New Key The SmartKey needs to be replaced.XVisit a qualified specialist workshop.+
Key Does Not
Belong to VehicleYou have put the wrong SmartKey in the ignition lock.XUse the correct SmartKey.+
Close Doors to
Lock VehicleAt least one door is open. A warning tone also sounds.XClose all doors and lock the vehicle again.Displays and operation185On-board computer and displaysZ

such as seat adjustment, steering wheel
adjustment, or the memory function
If children open a door, they could injure other
persons or get out of the vehicle and injure
themselves or be injured by following traffic.
Do not expose the child restraint system to
direct sunlight. The child restraint system's
metal parts, for example, could become very
hot, and the child could be burned on these
parts.GWARNING
Never touch the heating element or sides of
the lighter; they are extremely hot. Hold the
knob only.
Make sure any children traveling with you do
not injure themselves or start a fire with the
hot cigarette lighter.
Coupe (example)
XSelect key position 2 with the Start/Stop
button.XLightly press the center of cover :.
The ashtray opens.XPress in cigarette lighter ;.
Cigarette lighter ; will pop out
automatically when the heating element is
red-hot.12 V sockets
Points to observe before use
The sockets can be used for accessories with
a maximum current draw of 180 W (15 A), e.g.
lamps or chargers for mobile phones.
If you use the sockets for long periods when
the engine is switched off, the battery may
discharge.
i You can also use the sockets when the
ignition is switched off. An emergency cut-
out ensures that the on-board voltage does
not drop too low. If the on-board voltage is
too low, the power to the sockets is
automatically cut. This ensures that there
is sufficient power to start the engine.
Socket in the glove box
XOpen the glove box ( Y page 200).
Lift up the cover of socket :.
Socket on the center console
!
If accessories are connected, make sure
that a maximum current draw of 15 A is not
exceeded. Otherwise, you will overload the
fuse.
204FeaturesStowage and features

Extending and retracting the rear
spoiler manually
You can extend and retract the rear spoiler
manually for cleaning.
GWARNING
During manual retraction of the rear spoiler,
make sure that nobody becomes trapped. If
there is a danger of someone becoming
trapped, release the rear spoiler button to
pause retraction. The rear spoiler is then
extended again.
Never leave children unsupervised in the
vehicle. They could unintentionally retract the
extended rear spoiler. Someone could then
become trapped and seriously injured.
! Do not enter an automatic car wash with
the rear spoiler extended. Otherwise, the
rear spoiler may be damaged.
Only extend the rear spoiler in order to
clean it by hand. Retract it again when you
have finished cleaning it.
XClose the trunk lid.XSelect key position 2 with the Start/Stop
button.X To extend: press button :.
The rear spoiler is extended.
Button : flashes until the rear spoiler has
extended and then lights up in red.XTo retract: press and hold button : until
the rear spoiler is completely retracted.
Button : flashes until the rear spoiler has
retracted and then goes out.
Rear Spoiler retracts manually
appears in the display.
i If you release button : while retracting
the rear spoiler, it extends again
automatically.
Features211Stowage and featuresZ

Adding engine oilHEnvironmental note
When adding oil, take care not to spill any. If
oil enters the soil or waterways, it is harmful
to the environment.
! Use only engine oils and oil filters that
have been approved for vehicles equipped
with a service system. A list of the engine
oils and oil filters tested and approved in
accordance with the Mercedes-Benz
Specifications for Service Products can be
called up by visiting http://
www.mbusa.com (USA only). More
information about tested and approved
engine oils and oil filters is available from
any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
Damage to the engine or exhaust system is
caused by the following:
R using engine oils and oil filters which
have not been specifically approved for
the service system.
R replacing the engine oil or oil filter after
the replacement interval required by the
service system has elapsed
R using engine oil additives.
XUnscrew and remove oil filler cap : with
the integrated dipstick.XAdd the amount of oil required.
! Do not add too much oil. If the oil level is
above the "max" mark on the dipstick, too
much oil has been added. This can lead to
damage to the engine or the catalytic
converter. Have excess oil siphoned off.
XReplace cap : on the filler neck and
tighten clockwise.
Ensure that the cap locks into place
securely.
You will find further information about engine
oil in the "Technical data" section
( Y page 282).
Checking and adding other service
products
Checking the coolant level
GWARNING
In order to avoid any potentially serious burns:
R use extreme caution when opening the
hood if there are any signs of steam or
coolant leaking from the cooling system, or
if the coolant temperature display indicates
that the coolant is overheated.
R do not remove the pressure cap on the
coolant reservoir if the coolant temperature
is above 158 ‡ (70 †). Allow the engine to
cool down before removing the cap. The
coolant reservoir contains hot fluid and is
under pressure.
R using a rag, slowly turn the cap
approximately 1
/ 2 turn to relieve excess
pressure. If opened immediately, scalding
hot fluid and steam will be blown out under
pressure.
R do not spill antifreeze on hot engine parts.
Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which
may burn if it comes into contact with hot
engine parts.
Only check the coolant level when the vehicle
is on a level surface and the engine has cooled
down.
XSet the Start/Stop button to key position
2 .XCheck the coolant temperature display in
the "AMG" menu ( Y page 160).
The coolant temperature must be below
158 ‡ (70 †).220Engine compartmentMaintenance and care

Have service work carried out as described
in the Maintenance Booklet. This may
otherwise lead to increased wear and
damage to the major assemblies or the
vehicle.
Driving abroad
An extensive Mercedes-Benz Service network
is also available in other countries. You can
obtain further information from any
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
Care
Notes on care
Regular care of your vehicle is a condition for
retaining the quality in the long term.
Use care products and cleaning agents
recommended and approved by Mercedes-
Benz.
GWARNING
Many cleaning products can be hazardous.
Some are poisonous, others are flammable.
Always follow the instructions on the
particular container. Always open your
vehicle's doors or windows when cleaning the
inside.
Never use fluids or solvents that are not
designed for cleaning your vehicle.
Always lock away cleaning products and keep
them out of reach of children.
! For cleaning your vehicle, do not use any
of the following:
R dry, rough or hard cloths
R abrasive cleaning agents
R solvents
R cleaning agents containing solvents
Do not scrub.
Do not touch the surfaces or protective
films with hard objects, e.g. a ring or ice
scraper. You could otherwise scratch or
damage the surfaces and protective film.
HEnvironmental note
Dispose of empty packaging and cleaning
cloths in an environmentally responsible
manner.
! Do not park the vehicle for an extended
period right after cleaning it, particularly
after having cleaned the wheels with wheel
cleaner. Wheel cleaners could cause
increased corrosion of the brake discs and
brake pads/linings. For this reason, you
should drive for a few minutes after
cleaning. Braking heats the brake discs and
brake pads, thus drying them. The vehicle
can then be parked.
Exterior care
Automatic car wash
GWARNING
Braking efficiency is reduced after washing
the vehicle. This could cause an accident.
After the vehicle has been washed, brake
firmly while paying attention to the traffic
conditions. This will warm up the brake discs,
thereby drying them more quickly. After
washing the vehicle, drive particularly
carefully until the brakes are dry and braking
power has been fully restored.
You can wash the vehicle in an automatic car
wash from the very start.
If the vehicle is very dirty, pre-wash it before
cleaning it in an automatic car wash.
! Never clean your vehicle in a Touchless
Automatic Car Wash as these use special
cleaning agents. These cleaning agents can
damage the paintwork or plastic parts.
! When washing your vehicle in a tow-
through car wash, use the SmartKey
instead of the Start/Stop button.
Start the engine using the SmartKey.. Move
the transmission to N with the E-SELECT
lever. Use the SmartKey to switch the
engine off again and then turn the
Care223Maintenance and careZ

SmartKey to position 2. Make sure that you
then leave the SmartKey in position 2. You
may otherwise damage the vehicle, the
transmission or the car wash.
Check the transmission position in the
instrument cluster.
! Use the E-SELECT lever to shift the
transmission to N before switching the
engine off. If you open the driver's or front-
passenger door, the transmission remains
in this position for up to 30 minutes if the
SmartKey is in the ignition, even if the
engine is switched off. If you do not shift
the transmission to N using the E-SELECT
lever beforehand, it shifts automatically to
parking position P and locks the wheels if
the driver's or front-passenger door is
opened and the engine is switched off. This
may damage the vehicle, the transmission
or the car wash.
Observe the information on maneuvering
( Y page 129).
! Before driving into an automatic car wash,
make sure that it is suitable for the
dimensions of the vehicle. In particular,
make sure that:
R there is enough ground clearance
between the vehicle underbody and the
guide rails of the automatic car wash.
R the clearance width of the automatic car
wash is sufficient, particularly the width
of the guide rails.
R you enter the automatic car wash
straight and in the center of the guide
rails in order to avoid damaging the tires
or wheel rims.
Fold in the exterior mirrors before the
vehicle is washed. The exterior mirrors
could otherwise be damaged.
! Make sure that:R
the side windows are fully closed.
R the ventilation/heating is switched off
(the OFF button has been pressed/the
airflow control is set to position 0).
R that the windshield wiper switch is in
position 0.
Otherwise, the vehicle might be damaged.
! In portal car washes, the windshield
wipers may be moved up the windshield by
the cleaning brushes when the ignition is
switched off.
Set the Start/Stop button to key position
2 to reset the windshield wipers to their
original position.
! Vehicles with a matte finish:
Do not use wash programs with a hot wax
treatment under any circumstances.
After using an automatic car wash, wipe off
wax and drying agents from the windshield
and the wiper blades. This will prevent smears
and reduce wiping noises caused by residue
on the windshield.
Power washersGWARNING
Using power washers with circular-jet nozzles
(dirt grinders) may cause damage to the
vehicle, in particular to the tires.
Using damaged tires results in an increased
risk of accident. A sudden loss of tire pressure
while you are driving may cause you to lose
control of your vehicle, cause an accident and
injure yourself and others.
! Maintain a minimum distance of
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.
224CareMaintenance and care

! The following may cause the paint to
become shiny and thus reduce the matte
effect:
R Vigorous rubbing with unsuitable
materials.
R Frequent use of car washes.
R Washing the vehicle in direct sunlight.
! Never use paint cleaner, buffing or
polishing products such as gloss preserver
(wax). These products are only suitable for
high-gloss surfaces. Their use on vehicles
with matte finish leads to considerable
surface damage (shiny, spotted areas).
If wax comes into contact with the painted
surface by accident, remove it immediately
with commercially available petroleum
ether. Do so carefully and do not apply too
much pressure to the painted surface.
Ensure that no resinous, greasy or oily
substances come into contact with the
paint, as these can leave a residue. If such
substances do come into contact with the
painted surface accidentally, remove these
immediately with commercially available
petroleum ether. Do so carefully and do not
apply too much pressure to the painted
surface.
Tar stains or marks on the painted surface
can be removed with a commercially
available tar remover. Do so carefully and
do not apply too much pressure to the
painted surface.
Always have paintwork repairs carried out
at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
! Do not use wash programs with a hot wax
treatment under any circumstances.
i The vehicle should preferably be washed
by hand using a soft sponge, car shampoo
and plenty of water.
i Use only insect remover and car shampoo
from the range of recommended and
approved Mercedes-Benz care products.Cleaning the Roadster soft topXLight soiling: you can clean the soft top
while it is dry or rinse it with clear water.XNormal to heavy soiling: clean the soft
top with a brush and clear water. Clean
stains and other dirt with a brush and soft
top cleaning agents that have been
recommended and approved by Mercedes-
Benz. Always brush from front to back,
following the grain of the fabric.
! Never use any of the following to clean the
soft top:
R gasoline
R thinner
R tar or stain remover
R other organic solvents
! Remove bird droppings immediately as
they are corrosive and, therefore, can make
the soft-top fabric leak. Do not use high-
pressure cleaning equipment to clean the
vehicle. Do not use sharp-edged equipment
to remove ice and snow.
Frequent cleaning reduces the soft top's
resistance to dirt.
To restore this resistance to dirt, clean the
soft top using soft top cleaning agents that
have been recommended and approved by
Mercedes-Benz.
Incorrect cleaning and care, as well as aging,
can cause the soft-top seams to leak. Have
the soft-top seams sealed at a qualified
specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
i Cover the soft top appropriately if you
plan to leave the vehicle outside for a long
period of time.
Cleaning the windows
GWARNING
Switch the windshield wipers off before
cleaning the windshield or wiper blades. Press
the Start/Stop button repeatedly until all
226CareMaintenance and care

indicator lamps in the instrument cluster have
gone off. The windshield wipers could
otherwise move and injure you.
! Only fold the windshield wipers away from
the windshield when vertical. Otherwise,
you will damage the hood.XClean the inside and outside of the
windows with a damp cloth and a cleaning
agent that is recommended and approved
by Mercedes-Benz.
! Do not use dry cloths, abrasive products,
solvents or cleaning agents containing
solvents to clean the inside of the windows.
Do not use hard objects to clean the insides
of the windows, e.g. an ice scraper or ring.
There is otherwise a risk of damaging the
windows.
! Clean the water drainage channels of the
windshield and the rear window at regular
intervals. Deposits such as leaves, petals
and pollen may under certain
circumstances prevent water from draining
away. This can lead to corrosion damage
and damage to electronic components.
Cleaning the wiper blades
GWARNING
Switch the windshield wipers off before
cleaning the windshield or wiper blades. Press
the Start/Stop button repeatedly until all
indicator lamps in the instrument cluster have
gone off. The windshield wipers could
otherwise move and injure you.
! Only fold the windshield wipers away from
the windshield when vertical. Otherwise,
you will damage the hood.
! Do not pull the wiper blade. Otherwise,
the wiper blade could be damaged.
! Do not clean wiper blades too often and
do not rub them too hard. Otherwise, the
graphite coating could be damaged. This
could cause wiper noise.
XSwitch off the engine.XTake your foot off the brake pedal.XSet the windshield wipers to the °
position on the combination switch.XPress the Start/Stop button repeatedly
until the windshield wipers start.XWhen the wiper arms have reached a
vertical position: press the Start/Stop
button.XFold the wiper arm away from the
windshield until it engages.XSet the wiper blade at right angles to the
wiper arm.XCarefully clean the wiper blades with a
damp cloth.XFold the windshield wiper arms back again
before switching on the ignition.
! Hold the wiper arm securely when folding
back. The windshield could be damaged if
the wiper arm smacks against it suddenly.
Cleaning the exterior lighting
XClean the plastic lenses of the exterior
lighting using a wet sponge and a mild
cleaning agent, e.g. Mercedes-Benz car
shampoo or cleaning cloths.
! Only use cleaning agents or cleaning
cloths which are suitable for plastic light
lenses. Unsuitable cleaning agents or
cleaning cloths could scratch or damage
the plastic light lenses.
Care227Maintenance and careZ