Get Safety Guide for Mercedes A Class 4 Door Second Generation (2004-2011)

Safety

Occupant safety .................................. 36

Driving safety systems ....................... 55

Anti-theft systems .............................. 57

$SafetyOccupant safetyrestraint system which complements, butOccupant safetyhas the necessary specialist knowledgedoes not replace, the seat belt. All vehicleand tools to carry out the work on occupant safetyoccupants must wear their seat belt cor-Mercedes-Benz recommends that you userectly at all times, even if the vehicle isSeat belts, together with belt tensioners, belta Mercedes-Benz Service Centre for thisequipped with airbags. This is because - onforce limiters and airbags, are one hand - airbags are not deployed inrestraint systems. They reduce the risk ofIn particular, work relevant to safety or onall types of accident, as in some situationsinjury in defined accident situations andsafety-related systems must be carried outairbag deployment would not increase thethereby increase occupant safety. However,at a qualified specialist workshop. If thisprotection afforded to vehicle occupants,seat belts and airbags generally do not pro-work is not carried out correctly, the oper-provided they are wearing their seat belttect against objects penetrating the vehicleating safety of your vehicle may be affec-correctly. On the other hand, airbag deploy-from the . There is a risk of an accident and only provides increased protection ifTo ensure that the restraint systems canthe seat belt is worn correctly because:G Risk of injurydeliver their full potential protection, youR the seat belt helps to keep the vehicleshould ensure that:The restraint system may not work as inten-occupant in the best position in relationded if the following components have beenR the seat and head restraint are adjustedto the airbagmodified or work on these components hasproperly ( Y page 63)R for example, in a head-on collision, thenot been performed correctly:R the seat belt has been fastened properlyseat belt can more adequately preventR restraint system, consisting of the seat( Y page 73)the occupant from being propelledbelts and anch$

Safety

Occupant safety

restraint system which complements, but

Occupant safety

has the necessary specialist knowledge

does not replace, the seat belt. All vehicle

and tools to carry out the work required.

Notes on occupant safety

occupants must wear their seat belt cor-

Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use

rectly at all times, even if the vehicle is

Seat belts, together with belt tensioners, belt

a Mercedes-Benz Service Centre for this

equipped with airbags. This is because - on

force limiters and airbags, are coordinated

purpose.

the one hand - airbags are not deployed in

restraint systems. They reduce the risk of

In particular, work relevant to safety or on

all types of accident, as in some situations

injury in defined accident situations and

safety-related systems must be carried out

airbag deployment would not increase the

thereby increase occupant safety. However,

at a qualified specialist workshop. If this

protection afforded to vehicle occupants,

seat belts and airbags generally do not pro-

work is not carried out correctly, the oper-

provided they are wearing their seat belt

tect against objects penetrating the vehicle

ating safety of your vehicle may be affec-

correctly. On the other hand, airbag deploy-

from the outside.

ted. There is a risk of an accident and injury.

ment only provides increased protection if

To ensure that the restraint systems can

the seat belt is worn correctly because:

G Risk of injury

deliver their full potential protection, you

R the seat belt helps to keep the vehicle

should ensure that:

The restraint system may not work as inten-

occupant in the best position in relation

ded if the following components have been

R the seat and head restraint are adjusted

to the airbag

modified or work on these components has

properly ( Y page 63)

R for example, in a head-on collision, the

not been performed correctly:

R the seat belt has been fastened properly

seat belt can more adequately prevent

R restraint system, consisting of the seat

( Y page 73)

the occupant from being propelled

belts and anchorages, belt tensioners,

R the airbags can inflate properly if they are

towards the force of the impact, and is

belt force limiters, airbags

deployed ( Y page 39)

thus better suited to prevent injury

R wiring

R the steering wheel is adjusted properly

Therefore, in accident situations where an

R networked electronic systems

( Y page 70)

airbag is deployed, it only provides protec-

tion in addition to the seat belt if the seat

Airbags or belt tensioners could then fail,

R the restraint systems have not been modi-

belt is being worn correctly.

e.g. in the event of an accident in which the

fied

deceleration force would normally be high

G Risk of accident and injury

i An airbag increases the protection of

enough to trigger the systems, or they

Always have maintenance work carried out

vehicle occupants wearing a seat belt.

could be triggered unintentionally. Never

at a qualified specialist workshop which

However, airbags are only an additional

Safety

Occupant safety

G Risk of injury

The front airbags are only deployed if there is

carry out any modifications on the restraint

an even higher rate of vehicle deceleration in

systems.

If SRS is malfunctioning, individual systems

a longitudinal direction.

Never tamper with electronic components

may be activated unintentionally or not be

Your vehicle has adaptive, dual stage front

and their software.

deployed in the event of an accident with

airbags. When the first activation threshold is

heavy braking.

reached, the front airbag is filled with enough

A malfunction has occurred if the 1

SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)

propellant gas to reduce the risk of injuries.

warning lamp:

The front airbag is only fully inflated if a sec-

The SRS reduces the risk of occupants com-

R does not light up when you switch on the

ond threshold is reached within a few milli-

ing into contact with the vehicle's interior in

ignition

seconds, due to the control unit having detec-

the event of an accident. It can also reduce

ted further deceleration.

R does not go out after the engine has been

the forces to which occupants are subjected

running for a few seconds

during an accident.

Criteria for triggering belt tensioners and

R lights up again once the engine is running

airbags

The SRS consists of:

In the first stage of a collision, the airbag con-

In this case, have SRS checked immedi-

R The 1 warning lamp

trol unit evaluates the duration and direction

ately at a qualified specialist workshop.

R belt tensioners

of vehicle acceleration or deceleration in

R belt force limiters

order to determine whether it is necessary to

Triggering of belt tensioners, belt force

trigger the belt tensioner and/or airbag.

limiters and airbags

R airbags

The belt tensioner and airbag triggering

In the event of a collision, the sensor in the

thresholds are variable and are adapted to the

The 1 warning lamp

airbag control unit evaluates important phys-

rate of deceleration of the vehicle. This proc-

ical data such as duration, direction and force

The SRS functions are checked regularly

ess is pre-emptive in nature as the airbag

of the vehicle deceleration or acceleration.

when you turn on the ignition and when the

must be deployed during – and not at the end

Based on the evaluation of this data and

engine is running. Malfunctions can therefore

of – the collision.

depending on the vehicle's rate of longitudi-

be detected in good time.

i Airbags are not deployed in all types of

nal deceleration in a collision, in the first

The 1 warning lamp in the instrument

accidents. They are controlled by complex

stage the airbag control unit pre-emptively

cluster lights up when the ignition is switched

sensor technology and evaluation logic.

triggers the belt tensioners.

on. It goes out no later than a few seconds

This process is pre-emptive in nature as

after the engine is started.

Safety

Occupant safety

airbag deployment must take place during

decisive role in the deployment of an airbag,

The front belt force limiters are synchronised

the impact and must be adapted to provide

nor do they provide an indication of it.

with the front airbags, which distribute the

calculated, additional protection for the

forces exerted by the belt force limiters on

The vehicle may be deformed significantly,

vehicle occupants. Not all airbags are

the occupant over a greater area.

e. g. on the bonnet or the wing, without an

deployed in an accident.

airbag being deployed. This is the case if only

When the ignition is switched on, the belt ten-

The different airbag systems work inde-

parts which are relatively easily deformed are

sioner is triggered:

pendently of each other. However, the

affected and the necessary deceleration does

R only if the restraint systems are operational

deployment of each individual system will

not occur. Conversely, airbags may be

(the 1 warning lamp lights up after the

depend on the type of accident determined

deployed even though the vehicle suffers only

ignition is switched on and goes out once

by the control system in the first stages of

minor deformations. This is the case if, for

the engine is running) ( Y page 37)

the collision (head-on collision, side impact

example, very rigid vehicle parts such as lon-

R in the event of a head-on or rear-end colli-

and overturn) and the extent of the acci-

gitudinal body members are affected and suf-

sion if the vehicle decelerates or acceler-

dent (in particular, the vehicle's rate of

ficient deceleration occurs as a result.

ates rapidly in a longitudinal direction dur-

deceleration or acceleration).

ing the initial stages of impact

Belt tensioners, belt force limiters

The rate of vehicle deceleration or accelera-

If the airbags are deployed, you will hear a

tion and the direction of the force are basi-

The front seat belts and the outer seat belts

bang and a small amount of powder may also

cally determined by:

in the rear are equipped with belt tensioners.

be released. Only in rare cases will the bang

R the distribution of forces during the colli-

If the seat belt is also equipped with a belt

affect your hearing. The powder that escapes

sion

force limiter, the force exerted by the seat

does not generally constitute a health hazard.

belt on the seat occupant is reduced.

R the collision angle

The 1 warning lamp lights up.

Belt tensioners tighten the seat belts in an

R the deformation characteristics of the vehi-

G Risk of injury

accident, pulling them close against the body.

cle

If the seat belt tensioners have been trig-

i Belt tensioners do not correct incorrect

gered, they provide no additional protec-

R the characteristics of the object with which

seat positions or incorrectly fastened seat

tion in the event of another accident. There-

the vehicle has collided, e.g. the other vehi-

belts.

fore, have belt tensioners which have been

cle

Belt tensioners do not pull occupants back

triggered replaced at a qualified specialist

Factors which can only be seen and measured

towards the backrest.

workshop.

after a collision has occurred do not play a

Safety

Occupant safety

Comply with safety regulations when dis-

against the backrest, which should be

with automatic child seat recognition* is

posing of belt tensioners. Any Mercedes-

positioned as close to the vertical as pos-

only disabled when a child restraint sys-

Benz Service Centre can provide details of

sible. The head restraint must support

tem with automatic child seat recogni-

these regulations.

the back of the head at about eye level.

tion is fitted to the front-passenger seat.

The 5 PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

R always secure children less than 1.50 m

warning lamp must be constantly lit.

Airbags

tall or under 12 years of age in suitable

If the front-passenger seat of your vehicle

child restraint systems.

Airbag deployment slows down and restricts

does not have automatic child seat rec-

R all vehicle occupants must select a seat

the movement of the vehicle occupant.

ognition*, or your rearward-facing child

position that is as far away from the air-

If the airbags are deployed, you will hear a

restraint system does not have such a

bag as possible. The driver's seat posi-

bang and a small amount of powder may also

feature, children must be secured in a

tion must allow the vehicle to be driven

be released. Only in rare cases will the bang

child restraint system on a suitable seat

safely. The driver's chest should be as far

affect your hearing. The powder that escapes

in the rear. If you secure a forward-facing

away from the middle of the driver's front

does not generally constitute a health hazard.

child restraint system to the front-

airbag cover as possible.

The 1 warning lamp lights up.

passenger seat, you must move the front-

R move the front-passenger seat as far

The SRS/AIRBAG identification indicates the

passenger seat as far back as possible.

back as possible, especially if a child is

location of the airbags.

R make sure there are no heavy or sharp-

secured in a child restraint system on the

G Risk of injury

edged objects in pockets of clothing.

seat.

Airbags provide additional protection; they

R do not lean forwards, e.g. over the cover

R vehicle occupants – in particular, chil-

are not, however, a substitute for seat

of the driver's front airbag, particularly

dren – must not lean their head on the

belts.

when the vehicle is in motion.

area of the window in which a sidebag or

Observe the following notes to reduce the

R do not put your feet on the dashboard.

head/thorax airbag* is deployed.

risk of serious or even fatal injury if an air-

R only hold the steering wheel by the rim.

R Rearward-facing child restraint systems

bag is deployed:

This allows the airbag to inflate fully. You

must not be fitted to the front-passenger

R all vehicle occupants — in particular preg-

could be injured if the airbag is deployed

seat unless the front-passenger front air-

nant women — must wear their seat belt

and you are holding the inside of the

bag has been disabled. The front-

correctly at all times and lean back

steering wheel.

passenger front airbag of a vehicle fitted

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

G Risk of injury

The driver's front airbag and front-passenger

R do not lean on the doors from inside the

front airbag are deployed:

vehicle.

When an airbag deploys, a small amount of

powder is released. The powder may cause

R at the start of an accident with a high rate

R make sure that there are no people, ani-

short-term breathing difficulties to persons

of vehicle acceleration or deceleration in a

mals or objects between the vehicle

suffering from asthma or other pulmonary

longitudinal direction

occupants and the area of deployment of

conditions.

the airbag.

R if the system determines that airbag

In order to prevent potential breathing dif-

deployment can offer additional protection

R do not place any objects between the

ficulties you should leave the vehicle as

to that provided by the seat belt

seat backrest and the door.

soon as it is safe to do so. You can also open

R if the seat belt is fastened

R do not hang any hard objects, for exam-

the window to allow fresh air to enter the

ple coat hangers, on the grab handles or

R independently of other airbags in the vehi-

interior. The powder does not constitute a

coat hooks.

cle

health hazard and does not indicate that

there is a fire in the vehicle.

R do not attach accessories, e.g. cup hold-

R if the vehicle overturns, but only if the sys-

ers, to the doors.

tem detects high vehicle deceleration in a

G Risk of injury

longitudinal direction

It is not possible to rule out a risk of injuries

The airbag parts are hot after the airbag has

caused by an airbag due to the high speed

been deployed. Do not touch them, other-

at which the airbag is required to deploy.

wise you may burn yourself.

G Risk of injury

Have the airbags checked at a qualified

specialist workshop. Otherwise, occupants

The airbag's functionality can only be guar-

are not protected by the airbags in the

anteed if the following parts are not cov-

event of another accident.

ered and no badges or stickers are

attached to them:

Front airbags

R padded steering wheel boss

The front airbags are designed to increase

protection for the driver's and front-

R front-passenger front airbag cover

passenger head and chest.

R outer side of front seats

1 Driver's front airbag

2 Front-passenger front airbag

R side panel next to the rear seat backrest

Safety

Occupant safety

Driver's front airbag 1 deploys in front of the

The seat covers must have a special tear

steering wheel; front-passenger front airbag

seam for head/thorax airbags. Otherwise,

2 deploys in front of and above the glove

a head/thorax airbag cannot deploy cor-

compartment.

rectly and would fail to provide the intended

protection in the event of an accident.

On vehicles with automatic child seat recog-

Appropriate seat covers can be obtained

nition in the front-passenger seat*, front-

from a Mercedes-Benz Service Centre.

passenger front airbag 2 is only deployed if

the 5 PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF warning

The purpose of head/thorax airbag deploy-

lamp in the centre console is not lit

ment is to enhance the level of protection for

( Y page 45). This means that there is not a

the head and thorax (but not the arms) of the

child restraint system with automatic child

1 Front head/thorax airbag

vehicle occupants on the side of the vehicle

seat recognition* fitted to the front-

on which the impact occurs.

2 Rear sidebag in the side trim next to the

passenger seat or that a child restraint sys-

backrest

The purpose of rear sidebag deployment is to

tem with automatic child seat recognition*

enhance the level of protection for the thorax

The front head/thorax airbags or rear side-

has been fitted to the front-passenger seat

(but not the head, neck or arms) of the vehicle

bags inflate next to the outer seat cushion.

incorrectly.

occupants on the side of the vehicle on which

Front head/thorax airbag 1 or rear sidebags

the impact occurs.

Head/thorax airbags, rear sidebags*

2 are deployed:

i If you have specified windowbags* as

R on the side on which an impact occurs

optional equipment, the front seats of the

R at the start of an accident with a high rate

vehicle will be equipped with sidebags

of lateral vehicle deceleration or accelera-

instead of head/thorax airbags.

tion, e.g. in a side impact

G Risk of injury

R independently of the seat belt use

If you wish to use seat covers, Mercedes-

R independently of the front airbags

Benz recommends that, for safety reasons,

R independently of the belt tensioners

you only use seat covers that have been

approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

Windowbags*

Windowbags 1 are deployed:

Children in the vehicle

The purpose of the windowbags is to enhance

R at the start of an accident with a high rate

If a child is travelling in your vehicle, secure

the level of protection for the head (but not

of vehicle acceleration or deceleration in a

the child using a child restraint system which

chest or arms) of the vehicle occupants on

lateral direction

is appropriate to the size and age of the child

the side of the vehicle on which the impact

and recommended for Mercedes-Benz vehi-

R on the side on which an impact occurs

occurs.

cles. You should fit the restraint system to a

R independently of the front airbags

The windowbags are integrated into the side

suitable rear seat. Make sure that the child is

of the roof frame On 5-door vehicles, they are

R regardless of whether the front-passenger

secured in a child restraint system through-

located between the front door (A-pillar) and

seat is occupied

out the trip.

the rear door (C-pillar). On 3-door vehicles,

You can obtain information about the correct

they are located between the front door (A-

child restraint system from any Mercedes-

Active head restraints

pillar) and the rear inner wing (C-pillar).

Benz Service Centre.

The active head restraints are designed to

i If you have specified windowbags* as

i It is advisable to use Mercedes-Benz care

increase protection to the driver's and front-

optional equipment, the front seats of the

products to clean child restraint systems.

passenger's head and neck. In the event of a

vehicle will be equipped with sidebags

Information about this can be obtained

rear-end collision the force exerted by the

instead of head/thorax airbags.

from any Mercedes-Benz Service Centre.

driver's or front-passenger's chest causes

G Risk of injury

the head restraints on the driver's and front-

passenger seats to be moved forwards. This

Do not leave children unsupervised in the

provides better head support.

vehicle, even if they are secured in a child

G Risk of injury

restraint system. Children could injure

themselves on parts of the vehicle. They

Do not secure any objects (e.g. coat hang-

could also be seriously or even fatally

ers) on the head restraint rods. Otherwise,

injured by prolonged exposure to extreme

the active head restraints may not function

heat or cold.

correctly and could fail to provide the inten-

Do not expose the child restraint system to

ded protection in the event of an accident.

direct sunlight. Parts of the child restraint

1 Windowbag

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

G Risk of injury

system could heat up and the child could

restrain the child. The child could be

burn itself on them.

thrown against parts of the vehicle inte-

To reduce the risk of serious or even fatal

rior and be seriously or even fatally

If a child opens a door, the child or other

injury to the child in the event of a sudden

injured.

persons could be injured as a result. The

change in direction, braking or an accident:

child could get out and be injured in the

R children less than 1.50 m tall and under

G Risk of injury

process or be injured by a passing vehicle.

twelve years of age must always be

The child restraint system cannot perform

secured in special child restraint systems

G Risk of injury

its protective function if is not correctly fit-

on a suitable vehicle seat. This is neces-

An unsecured or incorrectly positioned load

ted to a suitable vehicle seat. The child can-

sary because the seat belts are not

increases the risk of injury to the child in

not be restrained in the event of a sudden

designed for children of this size.

the event of:

change of direction, heavy braking or an

R Do not secure children less than 1.50 m

accident. This may lead to serious or even

R an accident

tall or under twelve years of age on the

fatal injuries. For this reason, when fitting

R a braking manoeuvre

front-passenger seat. Exception: the

a child restraint system, observe the man-

child is secured in a vehicle with auto-

ufacturer's installation instructions and the

R a sudden change of direction

matic child seat recognition on the front-

correct use of the child restraint system.

Do not carry heavy or hard objects inside

passenger seat* and is secured in a child

Child restraint systems should be fitted to

the vehicle unless they are secured. You

restraint system with automatic child

the rear seats. Children are generally better

will find further information under "Loading

seat recognition.

protected there.

guidelines" in the index.

R If you secure a forward-facing child

The entire base of the child restraint system

restraint system to the front-passenger

must always rest on the seat cushion.

Child restraint systems

seat, you must move the front-passenger

Never place objects, e.g. a cushion, under

Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only

seat as far back as possible.

the child restraint system.

use the child restraint systems listed on

R children must never travel sitting on the

Only use child restraint systems with their

( Y page 47).

lap of another occupant. Due to the

original covers. Only replace damaged cov-

forces occurring in the event of a sudden

ers with genuine Mercedes-Benz covers.

change of direction, heavy braking or an

For safety reasons, you should only use

accident, it would not be possible to

child restraint systems which have been

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

approved for use in Mercedes-Benz vehi-

rearward-facing child restraint system on

cles.

a suitable rear seat.

Vehicles with a through-loading feature* in

R always move the front-passenger seat to

the rear seat backrest: do not fit a rear-

the rearmost position if you secure a

ward-facing child restraint system on the

child in a forward-facing child restraint

centre rear seat.

system on the front-passenger seat.

The front-passenger front airbag is not dis-

Child seat on the front-passenger seat

abled:

R on vehicles without automatic child seat

recognition in the front-passenger seat*

Warning symbol for a rearward-facing child

restraint system

R on vehicles with automatic child seat rec-

ognition on the front-passenger seat* if

G Risk of injury

there is no child restraint system with

If the front-passenger front airbag is not

automatic child seat recognition fitted to

disabled:

the front-passenger seat.

R a child secured in a child restraint system

R on vehicles with automatic child seat rec-

on the front-passenger seat could be

ognition on the front-passenger seat* if

seriously and even fatally injured by the

Warning on the front-passenger sun visor

the 5 PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF warn-

front-passenger front airbag deploying.

ing lamp is not lit.

This is especially a risk if the child is in

the immediate vicinity of the front-

To draw attention to this danger, there is an

passenger front airbag when it deploys.

appropriate warning sticker on the dash-

board as well as on both sides of the sun

R a child must never be secured on the

visor on the front-passenger side.

front-passenger seat in a rearward-facing

Information about recommended child

child restraint system. Only secure a

restraint systems is available at any

Mercedes-Benz Service Centre.

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

Automatic child seat recognition on the

G Risk of injury

system must always rest on the seat cush-

front-passenger seat*

ion. An incorrectly fitted child restraint sys-

If the 5 PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF warn-

tem cannot perform its intended protective

If your vehicle does not have automatic child

ing lamp does not light up when the child

function in the event of an accident, and

seat recognition on the front-passenger seat,

restraint system is fitted, the front-

could lead to injuries.

this is indicated by a special sticker. The

passenger front airbag has not been disa-

sticker is affixed to the side of the dashboard

bled. If the front-passenger front airbag is

on the front-passenger side. It is visible when

i The windowbag*, the head/thorax airbag

deployed, the child could be seriously or

you open the front-passenger door.

and the belt tensioner for the front-

even fatally injured.

passenger seat are still active even if the

Proceed as follows:

front-passenger seat front airbag has been

R do not use a rearward-facing child

disabled by the automatic child seat rec-

restraint system on the front-passenger

ognition.

seat.

G Risk of injury

R fit a rearward-facing child restraint sys-

Do not place items of electronic equipment

tem on a suitable rear seat.

on the front-passenger seat, e.g.:

R laptops, when switched on

R only use a forward-facing child restraint

R mobile phones

system on the front-passenger seat and

move the front-passenger seat to its rear-

R cards with transponders, e.g. ski passes

1 5 PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF warning

most position.

or access cards

lamp

R have the automatic child seat recognition

Signals from electronic equipment can

The front-passenger seat sensor system for

checked at a qualified specialist work-

cause interference in the automatic child

child restraint systems detects whether a

shop.

seat recognition sensor system. This could

special Mercedes-Benz child seat with auto-

lead to a system malfunction. This may

To ensure that the automatic child seat rec-

matic child seat recognition has been fitted.

cause the 5 PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF

ognition on the front-passenger seat func-

In such cases, 5 PASSENGER AIRBAG

tions correctly, never place objects (such

warning lamp to light up without there

OFF indicator lamp 1 lights up. The front-

as a cushion) under the child restraint sys-

being a child seat with automatic child seat

passenger airbag is deactivated.

tem. The entire base of the child restraint

recognition fitted. This means that the

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

front-passenger airbag does not deploy

the 5 PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF warning

during an accident. It is also possible that

lamp will not light up briefly if you turn the

key in the ignition lock to position 2.

Suitable positioning of the child restraint system

Weight categories and ages

Child restraint system on the

Child restraint system on the Child restraint system on the

front-passenger seat

left-hand and right-hand rear centre rear seat

seats

Group 0: up to 10 kg;

Vehicles with automatic child

Universal or as recommended

seat recognition on the front-

up to approx. 9 months

passenger seat*: as recommen-

Group 0+: up to 13 kg;

ded 3

up to approx. 18 months

Group I: 9 to 18 kg;

Universal or as recommended

Universal 4 or as recommended

between approx. 8 months and 4

years

Group II/III: 15 to 36 kg;

between approx. 3½ and 12 years

Only use child restraint systems with automatic child seat recognition.

Move the front-passenger seat to its rearmost and uppermost position.

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

"Universal" category child restraint systems

can be recognised by their orange approval

label.

Example of an approval label on the child restraint

system

Recommended child restraint systems

Weight categories and

Manufacturer

Type

Approval number

Daimler order num- Automatic child seat

ages

ber

recognition

Group 0: up to 10 kg;

Britax-Römer

BABY SAFE

E1 03 301146

A 000 970 10 00

Yes

PLUS 5

up to approx. 9 months

BABY SAFE ISO-

B6 6 86 8224

no 6

FIX PLUS

Group 0+: up to 13 kg;

Britax-Römer

BABY SAFE

E1 03 301146

A 000 970 10 00

Yes

PLUS 5

up to approx. 18 months

BABY SAFE ISO-

B6 6 86 8224

No 6

FIX PLUS

Move the front-passenger seat to the highest position.

The child restraint system may only be fitted to the left-hand and right-hand rear seats.

Safety

Occupant safety

Weight categories and

Manufacturer

Type

Approval number

Daimler order num- Automatic child seat

ages

ber

recognition

Group I: 9 to 18 kg;

Britax-Römer

E1 03 301133

A 000 970 11 00

Yes

DUO PLUS 5

between approx. 8

A 000 970 16 00

No 7

months and 4 years

Category II/III: 15 to 36 kg Britax-Römer

E1 03 301148

A 000 970 12 00

Yes

KID 5

between approx. 3½ and

A 000 970 17 00

No 7

12 years

ISOFIX child seat securing system in the

the child weighs more than 22 kg, secure

On the rear seats, only use child restraint

rear compartment

the child restraint system using a lap-shoul-

systems with an ISOFIX child seat securing

der belt.

system which have been recommended for

ISOFIX is a standardised securing system for

use in Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

specially-designed child restraint systems on

G Risk of injury

An incorrectly fitted child restraint system

the rear seats. Securing rings for two child

The child restraint system cannot perform

could come loose and seriously or even

restraint systems are fitted on the left and

its protective function if is not correctly fit-

fatally injure the child or other vehicle occu-

right rear seats.

ted to a suitable vehicle seat. The child can-

pants. When fitting the child restraint sys-

G Risk of injury

not be restrained in the event of a sudden

tem, make sure that it is engaged in the

A child restraint system secured by the ISO-

change of direction, heavy braking or an

securing rings on both sides.

FIX child seat securing system does not

accident. This may lead to serious or even

G Risk of injury

provide sufficient protection for children

fatal injuries. For this reason, when fitting

weighing more than 22 kg. For this reason,

a child restraint system, observe the man-

Please note that child restraint systems

do not secure children weighing more than

ufacturer's installation instructions and the

cannot provide a protective function if they

22 kg in a child restraint system secured by

correct use of the child restraint system.

or their retaining systems are damaged or

the ISOFIX child seat securing system. If

subjected to a load in an accident. This

Move the front-passenger seat to the highest position.

For child restraint systems without automatic child seat recognition, move the front-passenger seat to the rearmost position.

Safety

Occupant safety

TopTether

could result in serious or even fatal injuries

to the secured child in the event of an acci-

TopTether provides an additional connection

dent, heavy braking or a sudden change in

between the child restraint system secured

direction.

with ISOFIX and the front-passenger seat. It

helps reduce the risk of injury even further.

For this reason, have child restraint sys-

tems and their anchorages which have

Both TopTether anchorages are attached to

been damaged or subjected to a load in an

the rear of the rear seat backrests.

accident checked immediately at a quali-

fied specialist workshop.

! When fitting the child restraint system,

4 TopTether anchorage

make sure that the seat belt for the middle

5 TopTether hook*

seat does not become trapped. It could

6 TopTether belt* for the ISOFIX child

otherwise be damaged.

restraint system

X Move head restraint 1 upwards.

X Vehicles with a luggage compartment

cover*: release rear seat backrest 2

1 Head restraints

( Y page 150) and fold it forwards slightly.

2 Rear seat backrests

X All: guide TopTether belt* 6 under head

3 Luggage compartment cover*

restraint 1 between the two head restraint

4 TopTether anchorages

rods.

X Fit TopTether hook* 5 into TopTether

anchorage 4 on the back of rear seat

backrest 2.

1 Securing rings

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

Vehicles with a luggage compartment

Integrated child seat*

R Replace an integrated child seat that has

cover*: make sure you do not route the belt

been damaged or subjected to a heavy

The child seats are integrated into the right

across luggage compartment cover 3.

load as the result of an accident.

and left-hand sides of the seats of the rear

X Vehicles with a luggage compartment

R Be aware that children under two years

bench seat. They comply with the legal

cover*: swing back rear seat backrest 2

of age require a different child restraint

requirements of ECE Regulation 44.03.

until it engages.

system. Information about other child

Mercedes-Benz recommends the integrated

The red lock verification indicator is no lon-

restraint systems is available from any

child seat for children from approximately

ger visible ( Y page 151).

Mercedes-Benz Service Centre.

two to twelve years of age or with a body

G Risk of injury

weight of 12.5 kg to 36 kg.

R The rear seat backrest in the vehicle

must be securely locked in position.

Make sure that the rear seat backrest is

For children between approximately two and

fully locked. The red lock verification indi-

four years of age or weighing between

Folding out the child seat

cators on the left and right should no longer

approximately 12.5 kg and 22 kg, you must

be visible. If they are, the rear seat backr-

also use a padded table* which has been spe-

ests are not locked. If this is the case, occu-

cially approved for the integrated child seat

pants could be injured in the event of an

( Y page 51).

accident, e.g. by objects being thrown for-

G Risk of injury

wards from the luggage compartment.

To reduce the risk of serious or even fatal

injury to the child in the event of a sudden

X All: move head restraints 1 slightly down

change in direction, braking or an accident:

again if necessary ( Y page 66). Make sure

that you do not interfere with the correct

R Do not modify the integrated child seat.

routing of TopTether belt* 6.

R When the child seat is occupied, adjust

X Install the ISOFIX child restraint system

the head restraint to a position at which

1 Release catch

with TopTether*. Comply with the manu-

the back of the child's head is supported

2 Hook

facturer's installation instructions.

by the centre of the head restraint at

about eye level.

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

Folding in the child seat

X Press release catch 1.

X Pull the belt smoothly from the inertia reel.

The child seat folds upwards.

X Guide the lower lap section of the belt

through hook 2.

X Push the child seat back to the stop so that

it engages.

X Engage the seat belt tongue in the belt

buckle.

Fastening a child's seat belt

X Make sure that the belt:

G Risk of injury

R is routed as low as possible across the

To reduce the risk of serious or even fatal

pelvic area, in front of the hips

injury to the child in the event of a sudden

R is tightened across the lap by pulling

change in direction, braking or an accident:

upwards on the child's shoulder belt

R The shoulder belt section of the seat belt

R is tight and is routed across the middle

must be routed across the middle of the

1 Release catch

of the child's shoulder

child's shoulder – never across the

X Press release catch 1.

R is not twisted and does not pass across

child's neck – and be pulled tight against

the child's neck or under the child's arm

the child's chest. The lap section of the

X Push the child seat back into the seat until

seat belt must be routed across the

it engages.

X Adjust the head restraint ( Y page 66)

child's pelvis – not across the abdomen

– and be pulled tight against the child's

Padded table*for the integrated child

body; retighten the belt strap if neces-

seat*

sary.

For children between approximately two and

R Never secure more than one child at a

four years of age or weighing between

time in the child restraint system.

approximately 12.5 kg and 22 kg, you must

R The belt must be routed through the

also use a padded table which has been spe-

hook.

cially approved for the integrated child seat.

R The belt strap must not be trapped or

You can obtain the approved padded table

twisted, nor rub against any sharp edges.

with ECE approval number 03301101 from a

Mercedes-Benz Service Centre under the

order number B6 687 0096.

* optional

Safety

Occupant safety

You must not use the integrated child seat

G Risk of injury

R replace a damaged padded table or one

with padded table directly attached to a baby

that has been subjected to a load in an

If the padded table is damaged or subjected

car seat on which a body weight of up to

accident.

to a load in an accident, it cannot provide

10 kg is permitted.

the intended protection. It would then not

R be aware that children under two years

G Risk of injury

be possible to restrain the child in the event

of age or children weighing less than

of an accident, sudden braking or abrupt

If the padded table is not installed and used

12.5 kg require a different child restraint

change in direction and this could result in

correctly on the integrated child seat, it

system. Information about other child

serious or even fatal injury to the child.

cannot provide the intended protection. It

restraint systems is available from any

would then not be possible to restrain the

You must therefore have padded tables

Mercedes-Benz Service Centre.

child in the event of an accident, sudden

that are damaged or have been subjected

G Risk of injury

braking or abrupt change in direction and

to a heavy load in an accident checked

this could result in serious or even fatal

immediately along with their mountings at

Do not modify the padded table, integrated

injury to the child. For this reason, observe

a qualified specialist workshop and

child seat or seat belts. The padded table

the following description when fitting the

replaced if necessary.

must not be used without a cover. The

padded table:

cover must not be removed from the pad-

G Risk of injury

The padded table is only suitable for use

ded table or replaced with a cover from

To reduce the risk of serious or even fatal

together with the folded-out integrated

another manufacturer. Otherwise, the offi-

injury to the child in the event of a sudden

child seat.

cial approval becomes invalid and its pro-

change in direction, braking or an accident:

tective function could be restricted.

On the rear seats, only use the padded table

R observe the following description when

which is recommended for Mercedes-Benz

Do not subject the padded table to unnec-

fitting the padded table.

vehicles.

essary heat nor expose it to direct sunlight.

Parts of the padded table could heat up and

An incorrectly fitted padded table could

R do not modify the padded table.

the child could be burnt by the hot parts.

come loose and seriously or even fatally

R When the child seat is occupied, adjust

injure the child or other vehicle occupants.

the head restraint to a position at which

Fit the padded table and ensure that it is

the back of the child's head is supported

correctly secured.

by the centre of the head restraint at

about eye level.

Safety

Occupant safety

X Pull the belt smoothly from the inertia reel.

! Make sure that the padded table is not

4 Hook

trapped or damaged, for example when

X Guide the lower section of the belt through

5 Left leg

you:

hook 4.

6 Integrated child seat

R close the doors

X Attach the lower and upper sections of the

7 Right leg

belt in left seat belt guide point 3.

R adjust the seat

X Fold out integrated child seat 6

X Guide both sections of the belt to right seat

R store the padded table or transport

( Y page 50).

belt guide point 3 and attach.

heavy objects

X Place the child on integrated child seat

X Engage the seat belt tongue in the belt

Fitting the padded table

buckle.

X Fold both legs 5 and 7 down.

X Slide padded table 2 close to the child's

X Place padded table 2 over integrated child

body.

seat 6.

X Pull both parts of the belt tight. Ensure that

the belt is not twisted.

G Risk of injury

X Adjust the head restraint ( Y page 66)

Ensure that:

R the belt is routed as described below

Storing the padded table

R the belt is not twisted

G Risk of injury

R the padded table is close to the child's

The padded table must be secured in the

body

vehicle correctly or stowed securely in the

luggage compartment. It could otherwise

R the belt is routed through the hook

become loose in the event of an accident,

R the belt strap is not trapped or twisted

sudden braking or abrupt change in direc-

and does not rub against any sharp edges

tion and could injure vehicle occupants or

It would otherwise not be possible to

cause damage to the vehicle.

restrain the child in the event of an acci-

1 Head restraint

dent, sudden braking or abrupt change in

X Fold in both legs 5 and 7.

2 Padded table

direction and this could result in serious or

3 Seat belt guide points

even fatal injury to the child.

Safety

Occupant safety

Child-proof locks

If children are travelling in the vehicle, you can

activate the child-proof locks for the rear

doors.

Child-proof locks on the rear doors (5-

door vehicles)

The child-proof locks on the rear doors enable

you to secure each door individually. A locked

door cannot be opened from the inside. The

door can be opened from the outside if the

1 To deactivate

1 Switch

vehicle is unlocked.

2 To activate

X To activate/deactivate: press switch 1.

G Risk of accident and injury

Switch 1 engages or pops up. If the rear

X To activate: press latch 2 downwards.

Activate the child-proof locks for the rear

switch is engaged, you can only operate the

X Make sure that the child-proof locks are

doors and the override switch for the rear

rear side windows using the switches on

working properly.

compartment side windows when children

the driver's door.

are travelling in the vehicle. The children

X To deactivate: press latch 1 upwards.

could otherwise open doors or windows

while the vehicle is in motion and injure

Child-proof locks for the electric side win-

themselves or others.

dows in the rear*(5-door vehicle)

G Risk of accident and injury

Activate the child-proof locks for the rear

doors and the override switch for the rear

compartment side windows when children

are travelling in the vehicle. The children

could otherwise open doors or windows

while the vehicle is in motion and injure

themselves or others.

* optional

$SafetyDriving safety systemsDriving safety systemsfrom other road users and objects on theX To make a full brake application: the brake pedal with full of driving safety systemsG Risk of accidentIn this section, you will find information aboutABS (Anti-lock Braking System)If ABS is faulty, the wheels could lock whenthe following driving safety systems:braking. This limits the steerability of theR ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)ABS regulates brake pressure in such a wayvehicle when braking and the braking dis-that the wheels do not lock when you brake.R BAS (Brake Assist System)tance may allows you to continue steering the vehi-If ABS is deactivated due to a malfunction,R ESP ® (Electronic Stability Program)cle when BAS and ESP are also deactivated.R Steering assistant STEER CONTROLABS works from a speed of about 8 km/hThere is an increased risk of your vehicleupwards, regardless of road surface condi-skidding in certain situations.i In wintry road conditions, always use win-tions. ABS works on slippery surfaces, eventer tyres (M+S tyres) and, where necessary,You should always adapt your driving stylewhen you only brake chains. Only in this way will the driv-to suit prevailing road and weather condi-G Risk of accidenting safety systems described in this not depress the brake pedal severalwork as effectively as in quick succession (pumping).G Risk of accidentBAS (Brake Assist)Depress the brake firmly and evenly. Pump-The risk of an accident is significantlying the brake pedal reduces the brakingBAS operates in emergency braking situa-increased by driving too fast. This is . If you depress the brake pedal quickly,ularly the case when cornering as well asBAS automatically boosts the braking force,on wet or slippery roads or when driving tooBrakingthus shortening the stopping to the vehicle in ABS intervenes when braking, you will fee$

Safety

Driving safety systems

from other road users and objects on the

X To make a full brake application:

road.

depress the brake pedal with full force.

Overview of driving safety systems

G Risk of accident

In this section, you will find information about

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

If ABS is faulty, the wheels could lock when

the following driving safety systems:

braking. This limits the steerability of the

R ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

ABS regulates brake pressure in such a way

vehicle when braking and the braking dis-

that the wheels do not lock when you brake.

R BAS (Brake Assist System)

tance may increase.

This allows you to continue steering the vehi-

If ABS is deactivated due to a malfunction,

R ESP ® (Electronic Stability Program)

cle when braking.

then BAS and ESP are also deactivated.

R Steering assistant STEER CONTROL

ABS works from a speed of about 8 km/h

There is an increased risk of your vehicle

upwards, regardless of road surface condi-

skidding in certain situations.

i In wintry road conditions, always use win-

tions. ABS works on slippery surfaces, even

ter tyres (M+S tyres) and, where necessary,

You should always adapt your driving style

when you only brake gently.

snow chains. Only in this way will the driv-

to suit prevailing road and weather condi-

G Risk of accident

ing safety systems described in this section

tions.

Do not depress the brake pedal several

work as effectively as possible.

times in quick succession (pumping).

G Risk of accident

BAS (Brake Assist)

Depress the brake firmly and evenly. Pump-

The risk of an accident is significantly

ing the brake pedal reduces the braking

BAS operates in emergency braking situa-

increased by driving too fast. This is partic-

effect.

tions. If you depress the brake pedal quickly,

ularly the case when cornering as well as

BAS automatically boosts the braking force,

on wet or slippery roads or when driving too

Braking

thus shortening the stopping distance.

close to the vehicle in front.

If ABS intervenes when braking, you will feel

X Keep the brake pedal firmly depressed until

The driving safety systems described in this

a pulsing in the brake pedal.

the emergency braking situation is over.

section can neither reduce this risk nor

ABS prevents the wheels from locking.

override the laws of physics.

X If ABS intervenes: continue to depress the

The brakes will function as usual once you

For this reason, always adapt your driving

brake pedal with force until the braking sit-

release the brake pedal. BAS is deactivated.

style to suit prevailing road and weather

uation is over.

conditions. Maintain sufficient distance

Safety

Driving safety systems

G Risk of accident

R the parking brake is being tested using a

ESP ® (Electronic Stability Program)

dynamometer

If BAS has malfunctioned, the braking sys-

ESP ® monitors driving stability and traction,

tem remains available with full brake boost-

R the vehicle is being towed with the front

i.e. power transmission between tyres and

ing effect. However, braking force is not

axle raised

the road surface.

automatically increased in emergency

Application of the brakes by ESP ® could

ESP ® detects when a wheel spins or the vehi-

braking situations and the stopping dis-

otherwise destroy the brake system on the

cle starts to skid. ESP ® stabilises the vehicle

tance may increase.

front axle.

by targeted braking of individual wheels and

by limiting engine power. It assists you when

i Only use wheels with the recommended

Adaptive brake lamps

pulling away on wet or slippery roads. ESP ®

tyre sizes. Only then will ESP ® function

also stabilises the vehicle during braking.

i Adaptive brake lamps are only available in

properly.

When ESP ® intervenes, the v warning

certain countries.

lamp flashes in the instrument cluster.

If you brake sharply from a speed of more

Steering assistant STEER CONTROL

G Risk of accident

than 50 km/h or if braking is assisted by BAS,

The steering assistant STEER CONTROL helps

If the v warning lamp in the instrument

the brake lamps flash rapidly. In this way,

you by transmitting a noticeable steering

traffic travelling behind you is warned in an

cluster flashes, proceed as follows:

force to the steering wheel in the direction

even more noticeable manner.

R only depress the accelerator pedal as far

required for vehicle stabilisation. This steer-

If you brake sharply from a speed of more

as necessary when pulling away.

ing assistance is provided in particular if:

than 70 km/h to a standstill, the hazard warn-

R adapt your driving style to suit the pre-

R both right wheels or both left wheels are on

ing lamps are activated automatically. If the

vailing road and weather conditions.

a wet or slippery road surface when you

brakes are applied again, the brake lamps

The vehicle could otherwise go into a skid.

brake

light up continuously. The hazard warning

lamps switch off automatically if you travel

ESP ® cannot reduce the risk of an accident

R the vehicle starts to skid

faster than 10 km/h. You can also switch off

if you drive too fast. ESP ® cannot override

You have control over the steering at all

the hazard warning lamps using the hazard

the laws of physics.

times.

warning switch button ( Y page 80).

G Risk of accident

! The ignition must be switched off (key in

If there is an ESP ® malfunction, you will not

position 0 or 1 in the ignition lock), if:

receive any steering assistance from the

Safety

Anti-theft systems

steering assistant STEER CONTROL. The

steering continues to function with power

Immobiliser

assistance.

The immobiliser prevents your vehicle from

being started without the correct key.

X To activate: remove the key from the igni-

tion lock.

X To deactivate: turn the key to position 2

in the ignition lock.

1 Indicator lamp

ATA* (anti-theft alarm system)

X To prime: lock the vehicle using the key.

A visual and audible alarm is triggered when

Indicator lamp 1 flashes. The alarm sys-

the alarm system is primed and you open:

tem is primed after approximately 15 sec-

onds.

R a door

X To deactivate: unlock the vehicle using the

R a door using the emergency key element

key.

R the tailgate

R the bonnet

Deactivating the alarm

The alarm is not switched off even if you close

X Insert the key into the ignition lock.

a door again.

The alarm is deactivated.

X Press the k or j button on the key.

The alarm is deactivated.

* optional

Safety

Anti-theft systems

Deactivating tow-away protection and

Tow-away protection* and interior

interior motion sensor

motion sensor*

To prevent a false alarm, deactivate the tow-

When tow-away protection and the interior

away protection and the interior motion sen-

motion sensor have been primed, a visual and

sor if your vehicle:

audible alarm is triggered, if:

R motion is detected in the vehicle interior,

R is being transported or towed

e.g. if the side windows of the vehicle are

R is being loaded, e.g. onto a ferry or car

smashed.

transporter

R the inclination of your vehicle changes, e.g.

R is parked on a movable surface, e.g. split-

if one end of your vehicle is raised.

level garages

1 To deactivate tow-away protection/inte-

rior motion sensor

R is locked while persons or animals remain

Priming tow-away protection and inte-

2 Indicator lamp

inside

rior motion sensor

R is locked while the side windows remain

X Remove the key from the ignition lock.

X Make sure that:

open

X Press button 1.

R the side windows are closed

R is locked and the panorama louvred sliding

Indicator lamp 2 lights up briefly.

R the panorama louvred sliding sunroof* is

sunroof* remains open

X Lock the vehicle using the key.

closed.

Tow-away protection and the interior

motion sensor remain deactivated until the

R there are no objects, e.g. mascots, hanging

vehicle is unlocked and locked again.

on the rear-view mirror or on the grab han-

dles on the roof trim.

This will prevent false alarms.

X Lock the vehicle using the key.

Tow-away protection and the interior

motion sensor are primed after approxi-

mately 30 seconds.

* optional

Safety for Your Mercedes A Class 4 Door Second Generation (2004-2011)

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