Checking and topping up fluids 231
Controls Safety Driving tips General maintenance Self-help Technical data
Working on components in the engine
compartment
Extra caution is necessary when working on components
in the engine compartment.
Always be aware of the danger of injury and scalding as well as the
risk of accident or fire when working in the engine compartment
(e.g. when checking and refilling fluids). Always observe the warn-
ings listed below and follow all normal safety precautions. The
engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a potentially
hazardous area. ⇒ .
WARNING
• Switch off the engine.
• Remove the ignition key.
• Apply the parking brake.
• Put the gear lever in neutral or selector in P.
• Wait for the engine to cool down.
• Keep children away from engine compartment.
• Never spill fluids on hot engine components. These fluids can
cause a fire (e.g. radiator anti-freeze).
• Take care not to cause short circuits in the electrical system,
especially when working on the battery.
• Do not touch the radiator fan when the engine is hot. The fan
may start running suddenly.
• Do not unscrew the cap on the expansion tank when the engine
is hot. The cooling system is under pressure.
• Protect face, hands and arms by covering the cap with a large,
thick rag to protect against escaping coolant and steam.
• If any tests have to be performed with the engine running,
there is an extra safety risk from the rotating parts, such as the
drive belts, alternator and radiator fan, etc., and from the high-
voltage ignition system.
• Vehicles with automatic gearbox: Never open the throttle inad-
vertently (for instance by hand from the engine compartment) if a
gear is engaged while the vehicle is stationary with the engine
running. The vehicle could otherwise start moving immediately
and possibly cause an accident.
• Observe the following additional warnings if work on the fuel
system or the electrical system is necessary:
− Always disconnect the battery.
− Do not smoke.
− Never work near naked flames.
− Always keep an approved fire extinguisher immediately
available.
Caution
When topping up fluids make sure the correct fluid is put into the
correct filler opening. This can otherwise cause serious malfunc-
tions or engine damage.
For the sake of the environment
Inspect the ground underneath your vehicle regularly so that any
leaks are detected at an early stage. If you find oil spots or other
fluids, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified workshop.
Note
On right-hand drive vehicles* some of the containers/ reservoirs
mentioned below are located on the other side of the engine
compartment.
WARNING (continued)
document_0900452a8179700c.book Seite 231 Donnerstag, 22. März 2007 10:19 10
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