Vehicle care for Your Vauxhall Astra 4 Door Seventh Generation (2016-2021)

Vehicle care  
221  
Engine compartment fuse box . 241  
Instrument panel fuse box ....... 243  
Load compartment fuse box .... 244  
Vehicle tools .............................. 246  
Tools ........................................ 246  
Wheels and tyres ....................... 248  
Winter tyres ............................. 248  
Tyre designations .................... 248  
Tyre pressure .......................... 248  
Tyre pressure monitoring  
system .................................... 250  
Tread depth ............................. 252  
Changing tyre and wheel size . 253  
Wheel covers ........................... 253  
Tyre chains .............................. 254  
Tyre repair kit .......................... 254  
Wheel changing ....................... 257  
Spare wheel ............................ 258  
General Information  
Accessories and vehicle  
modifications  
We recommend the use of genuine  
parts and accessories and factory  
approved parts specific for your  
vehicle type. We cannot assess or  
guarantee reliability of other products  
- even if they have a regulatory or  
otherwise granted approval.  
Vehicle care  
General Information ................... 221  
Accessories and vehicle  
modifications .......................... 221  
Vehicle storage ........................ 222  
End-of-life vehicle recovery ..... 222  
Vehicle checks ........................... 223  
Performing work ...................... 223  
Bonnet ..................................... 223  
Engine oil ................................. 224  
Engine coolant ......................... 225  
Washer fluid ............................ 226  
Brakes ..................................... 226  
Brake fluid ............................... 226  
Vehicle battery ......................... 227  
Diesel fuel system bleeding ..... 228  
Wiper blade replacement ........ 229  
Bulb replacement ....................... 229  
Halogen headlights .................. 229  
Front fog lights ......................... 231  
Tail lights ................................. 232  
Side turn lights ......................... 238  
Number plate light ................... 239  
Interior lights ............................ 239  
Any modification, conversion or other  
changes made to standard vehicle  
specifications (including, without  
limitation, software modifications,  
modifications of the electronic control  
units) may invalidate the warranty  
offered by Vauxhall. Furthermore,  
such changes may affect driver  
assistance systems, fuel  
Jump starting ............................. 262  
Towing ....................................... 264  
Towing the vehicle ................... 264  
Towing another vehicle ........... 265  
Appearance care ....................... 266  
Exterior care ............................ 266  
Interior care ............................. 268  
Floor mats ............................... 268  
consumption, CO2 emissions and  
other emissions of the vehicle. They  
may also invalidate the vehicle  
operating permit.  
Electrical system ........................ 240  
Fuses ....................................... 240  
222  
Vehicle care  
Caution  
Clean and preserve the rubber  
seals.  
Fill up fuel tank completely.  
Change the engine oil.  
Drain the washer fluid reservoir.  
Check the coolant antifreeze and  
corrosion protection.  
Adjust tyre pressure to the value  
specified for full load.  
Park the vehicle in a dry, well  
ventilated place. Engage first or  
reverse gear or set selector lever  
to P. Prevent the vehicle from  
rolling.  
Putting back into operation  
When the vehicle is to be put back into  
operation:  
When transporting the vehicle on  
a train or on a recovery vehicle, the  
mud flaps might be damaged.  
Connect the clamp to the  
negative terminal of the vehicle  
battery. Initialize the power  
windows 3 42.  
Number plate mounting  
Check tyre pressure.  
Fill up the washer fluid reservoir.  
Check the engine oil level.  
Check the coolant level.  
Fit the number plate if necessary.  
Number plate mounting 3 221.  
To ensure a proper functionality of the  
radar system, do not use a number  
plate support on the front bumper.  
Do not apply the parking brake.  
Open the bonnet, close all doors  
and lock the vehicle.  
Disconnect the clamp from the  
negative terminal of the vehicle  
battery. Note that all systems are  
not functional, e.g. anti-theft  
alarm system.  
End-of-life vehicle recovery  
Information on end-of-life vehicle  
recovery centres and the recycling of  
end-of-life vehicles is available on our  
website, where legally required. Only  
entrust this work to an authorised  
recycling centre.  
Vehicle storage  
Storage for a long period of time  
If the vehicle is to be stored for several  
months:  
Wash and wax the vehicle.  
Have the wax in the engine  
compartment and underbody  
checked.  
Vehicle care  
223  
Vehicle checks  
9 Danger  
Performing work  
The ignition system uses  
extremely high voltage. Do not  
touch.  
Bonnet  
Opening  
Move the safety catch sideways to the  
left vehicle side and open the bonnet.  
9 Warning  
Only perform engine compartment  
checks when the ignition is off.  
The cooling fan may start  
operating even if the ignition is off.  
Pull the bonnet release lever and  
return it to its original position.  
Secure the bonnet support.  
224  
Vehicle care  
If the bonnet is opened during an  
Autostop, the engine will be restarted  
automatically for safety reasons.  
Check with the vehicle on a level  
surface. The engine must be at  
operating temperature and switched  
off for at least 5 minutes.  
Closing  
Caution  
Before closing the bonnet, press the  
support into the holder.  
Lower the bonnet and let it fall into the  
latch from a low height (20-25 cm).  
Check that the bonnet is engaged.  
It is the owner's responsibility to  
maintain the proper level of an  
appropriate quality oil in the  
engine.  
Caution  
Different dipsticks are used  
depending on engine variant.  
Do not press the bonnet into the  
latch to avoid dents.  
Engine oil  
Check the engine oil level manually  
on a regular basis to prevent damage  
to the engine. Ensure that the correct  
specification of oil is used.  
Recommended fluids and lubricants  
3 271.  
Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean,  
reinsert fully, pull out and read the  
engine oil level.  
The maximum engine oil  
consumption is 0.6 l per 600 miles.  
Vehicle care  
225  
When the engine oil level has  
dropped to the MIN mark, top up  
engine oil.  
The engine oil level must not exceed  
the MAX mark on the dipstick.  
We recommend the use of the same  
grade of engine oil that was used at  
last change.  
Engine coolant  
The factory filled coolant provides  
freeze protection down to approx.  
-28 °C. In cold regions with very low  
temperatures, the factory filled  
coolant provides frost protection  
down to approx. -37 °C.  
Caution  
Caution  
Only use approved antifreeze.  
Wipe off any spilled engine oil  
immediately.  
If the cooling system is cold, the  
Coolant and antifreeze 3 271.  
coolant level should be above the  
filling line mark. Top up if the level is  
low.  
Coolant level  
Caution  
Caution  
Overfilled engine oil must be  
drained or suctioned out. If the oil  
exceeds the maximum level, do  
not start the vehicle and contact a  
workshop.  
9 Warning  
Too low a coolant level can cause  
engine damage.  
Allow the engine to cool before  
opening the cap. Carefully open  
the cap, relieving the pressure  
slowly.  
Capacities 3 281.  
Fit the cap on straight and tighten it.  
To top up, use a 1:1 mixture of  
released coolant concentrate mixed  
with clean tap water. If no coolant  
concentrate is available, use clean  
tap water. Install the cap tightly. Have  
226  
Vehicle care  
the coolant concentration checked  
and have the cause of the coolant  
loss remedied by a workshop.  
Washer fluid 3 271.  
Brakes  
In the event of minimum thickness of  
the brake lining, a squealing noise  
sounds during braking.  
Washer fluid  
Continued driving is possible but  
have the brake lining replaced as  
soon as possible.  
Once new brake linings are installed,  
do not brake unnecessarily hard for  
the first few journeys.  
The brake fluid level must be between  
the MIN and MAX marks.  
Brake fluid  
If fluid level is below MIN seek the  
assistance of a workshop.  
9 Warning  
Brake and clutch fluid 3 271.  
Fill with clean water mixed with a  
suitable quantity of approved  
windscreen washer fluid which  
contains antifreeze.  
Brake fluid is poisonous and  
corrosive. Avoid contact with eyes,  
skin, fabrics and painted surfaces.  
Caution  
Only washer fluid with a sufficient  
antifreeze concentration provides  
protection at low temperatures or  
a sudden drop in temperature.  
Vehicle care  
227  
Replacing the vehicle battery  
Notice  
Vehicle battery  
Any deviation from the instructions  
given in this section may lead to  
temporary deactivation or  
disturbance of the stop-start system.  
Batteries do not belong in household  
waste. They must be disposed of at  
an appropriate recycling collection  
point.  
Laying up the vehicle for more than  
four weeks can lead to battery  
discharge. Disconnect the clamp from  
the negative terminal of the vehicle  
battery.  
When the vehicle battery is being  
replaced, please ensure that there  
are no open ventilation holes in the  
vicinity of the positive terminal. If a  
ventilation hole is open in this area, it  
must be closed off with a dummy cap,  
and the ventilation in the vicinity of the  
negative terminal must be opened.  
Ensure that the battery is always  
replaced by the same type of battery.  
The vehicle battery has to be  
replaced by a workshop.  
The vehicle battery is located in the  
load compartment.  
There are connecting points for jump  
starting 3 262.  
Ensure the ignition is switched off  
before connecting or disconnecting  
the vehicle battery.  
The vehicle battery is maintenance-  
free provided that the driving profile  
allows sufficient charging of the  
battery. Short-distance-driving and  
frequent engine starts can discharge  
the battery. Avoid the use of  
Battery discharge protection 3 139.  
Stop-start system 3 156.  
Disconnecting the battery  
Charging the vehicle battery  
If the vehicle's battery is to be  
disconnected (e.g. for maintenance  
work), the alarm siren must be  
deactivated as follows: Switch the  
ignition on then off, then disconnect  
the vehicle's battery within  
9 Warning  
unnecessary electrical consumers.  
On vehicles with stop-start  
system, ensure that the charging  
potential does not exceed 14.6 V  
15 seconds.  
228  
Vehicle care  
Power outlet  
The vehicle battery contains  
sulphuric acid which could cause  
blindness or serious burn  
injuries.  
when using a battery charger.  
Otherwise the vehicle battery may  
be damaged.  
The power outlets are deactivated in  
the event of low vehicle battery  
voltage.  
See the Owner's Manual for  
Jump starting 3 262.  
Warning label  
further information.  
Discharge protection  
Explosive gas may be present in  
the vicinity of the vehicle battery.  
Battery voltage  
When the vehicle battery voltage is  
running low, a warning message will  
appear in the Driver Information  
Centre.  
When the vehicle is being driven, the  
load reduction function temporarily  
deactivates certain functions, e.g. the  
heated rear window.  
Diesel fuel system bleeding  
If the tank has been run dry, the diesel  
fuel system must be bled. Switch on  
the ignition three times for  
15 seconds at a time. Then crank the  
engine for a maximum of  
40 seconds. Repeat this process after  
no less than 5 seconds. If the engine  
fails to start, seek the assistance of a  
workshop.  
The deactivated functions are  
reactivated automatically as soon as  
conditions permit.  
Meaning of symbols:  
No sparks, naked flames or  
smoking.  
Idle boost  
If charging of the vehicle battery is  
required due to battery condition, the  
power output of the generator must  
be increased. This will be achieved by  
an idle boost which may be audible.  
A message appears in the Driver  
Information Centre.  
Always shield eyes. Explosive  
gases can cause blindness or  
injury.  
Keep the vehicle battery out of  
reach of children.  
Vehicle care  
229  
Rear window  
Wiper blade replacement  
Windscreen  
Bulb replacement  
Switch off the ignition and switch off  
the relevant switch or close the doors.  
Only hold a new bulb at the base. Do  
not touch the bulb glass with bare  
hands.  
Use only the same bulb type for  
replacement.  
Replace headlight bulbs from within  
the engine compartment.  
Bulb check  
After a bulb replacement switch on  
the ignition, operate and check the  
lights.  
Lift wiper arm. Disengage wiper blade  
as shown in illustration and remove.  
Attach the wiper blade slightly angled  
to the wiper arm and push until it  
engages.  
Lift the wiper arm until it stays in the  
raised position, press button to  
disengage the wiper blade and  
remove.  
Attach the wiper blade slightly angled  
to the wiper arm and push until it  
engages.  
Halogen headlights  
Lower wiper arm carefully.  
Halogen headlights with separate  
bulbs for low beam and high beam.  
Lower wiper arm carefully.  
230  
Vehicle care  
1. Rotate the cap anticlockwise and  
remove it.  
3. Detach the bulb from the bulb  
holder and replace the bulb.  
4. Insert the bulb holder, engaging  
the two lugs into the reflector  
housing and rotate clockwise to  
secure.  
Low beam (1) outer bulb.  
High beam (2) inner bulb.  
2. Disengage spring clip from  
retainer by pulling. Withdraw the  
bulb holder from the reflector  
housing.  
Low beam (1)  
5. Push spring clip back in place.  
6. Fit the cap and rotate clockwise.  
Vehicle care  
231  
2. Disengage spring clip from  
retainer by moving it forward and  
to the side. Swivel spring clip  
downwards.  
High beam (2)  
Side light  
In case of defective LEDs, have them  
replaced by a workshop.  
3. Withdraw the bulb holder from the  
Daytime running light  
In case of defective LEDs, have them  
replaced by a workshop.  
reflector housing.  
Front fog lights  
The bulbs are accessible from the  
underside of the vehicle.  
1. Rotate the cap anticlockwise and  
remove it.  
4. Detach the bulb from the bulb  
holder and replace the bulb.  
5. Insert the bulb holder and install  
spring clip.  
Fit the cap and rotate clockwise.  
Front turn lights  
1. Undo screw with a screwdriver  
and remove the faceplate.  
In case of defective LEDs, have them  
replaced by a workshop.  
232  
Vehicle care  
2. Vehicles with tyre repair kit: To  
replace bulbs on the right side,  
first unscrew the plastic nut and  
take out the insert with the sealant  
bottle.  
Tail lights  
5-door Hatchback  
2. Disengage the plug connector by  
pressing the retaining lug.  
3. Remove and replace the bulb unit  
and attach the plug connector.  
Note that the bulb and the socket  
are one unit and have to be  
changed together.  
1. Release the cover on the  
respective side and remove it.  
3. Unscrew the plastic securing nut  
from the inside by hand.  
4. Insert the bulb socket into the light  
assembly by turning clockwise  
and engage.  
5. Mount the light assembly by  
tightening the screws.  
6. Attach the faceplate and tighten  
the screw.  
Vehicle care  
233  
6. Press the three retaining lugs and  
remove the bulb carrier from the  
light assembly.  
On version with LED tail lights and  
LED brake lights, only turn light  
bulb (1) can be removed and  
replaced.  
4. Carefully withdraw tail light  
assembly from recess and  
remove.  
5. Detach the cable from the  
7. Remove and replace the bulbs:  
Turn light (1)  
8. Attach the bulb carrier to the light  
retainer.  
assembly.  
Tail light/brake light (2)  
9. Attach the cable to the retainer.  
10. Attach the light assembly to the  
vehicle body and tighten the  
securing nut from the inside of the  
load compartment. Attach cover.  
Depending on the version, tail lights  
and brake lights are designed as  
LEDs. In case of failure, have LEDs  
replaced by a workshop.  
234  
Vehicle care  
Light assembly in the tailgate  
3. Carefully withdraw the light  
assembly from the recesses and  
remove.  
5. Press the three retaining lugs and  
remove the bulb carrier from the  
light assembly.  
1. Release the cover in the tailgate  
and remove it.  
4. Detach the plug from the light  
assembly.  
2. Unscrew the plastic securing nut  
by hand.  
Vehicle care  
235  
On version with LED tail lights, the  
position of the retaining lugs is  
slightly different.  
Sports Tourer  
On version with LED tail lights  
only reverse light bulb (1) can be  
removed and replaced.  
1. Release and open the cover on  
the respective side.  
7. Insert the bulb carrier into the tail  
light assembly. Attach plug to the  
light assembly. Fit light assembly  
on the tailgate and tighten the  
screw from the inside. Attach  
cover.  
6. Remove and replace the bulb:  
Tail light (1)  
Rear fog light (2) (left side)  
Reverse light (2) (right side)  
Depending on the version, tail lights  
are designed as LEDs. In case of  
failure, have LEDs replaced by a  
workshop.  
236  
Vehicle care  
2. Unscrew both plastic securing  
nuts from the inside by hand.  
5. Standard tail lights:  
Tail light / brake light (1)  
Turn light (2)  
7. Insert the bulb carrier into the light  
assembly.  
8. LED tail lights:  
Release the retaining lugs and  
remove the bulb carrier from the  
light assembly.  
3. Carefully withdraw tail light  
assembly from recess and  
remove.  
4. Detach the cable from the  
On version with LED tail lights and  
LED brake lights, only the turn  
light bulb can be replaced:  
remove bulb holder in the light  
assembly by turning. Replace  
bulb in the bulb holder.  
retainer.  
6. Remove and replace the bulbs:  
Vehicle care  
237  
9. Attach the cable to the retainer.  
10. Attach the light assembly to the  
vehicle body and tighten the  
securing nuts from the inside of  
the load compartment. Attach  
cover.  
Depending on the version, tail lights  
and brake lights are designed as  
LEDs. In case of failure, have LEDs  
replaced by a workshop.  
Light assembly in the tailgate  
2. Unscrew the plastic securing nut  
by hand.  
4. Press the three retaining lugs and  
remove the bulb carrier from the  
light assembly.  
1. Release the cover in the tailgate  
and remove it.  
3. Carefully withdraw the light  
assembly from the recesses and  
remove.  
238  
Vehicle care  
5. Remove and replace the bulb:  
Reverse light (1)  
Depending on the version, tail lights  
are designed as LEDs. In case of  
failure, have LEDs replaced by a  
workshop.  
Tail light (2)  
Rear fog light (3) (left side)  
6. Insert the bulb carrier into the tail  
Side turn lights  
light assembly.  
To replace bulb, remove lamp  
housing:  
2. Turn bulb holder anticlockwise  
and remove from housing.  
7. On version with LED tail lights  
only reverse light bulb can be  
replaced: remove bulb holder in  
the light assembly by turning.  
Replace bulb in the bulb holder.  
1. Slide the lamp housing forward  
and remove it at the back.  
8. Fit light assembly on the tailgate  
and tighten the securing nut from  
the inside. Attach cover.  
3. Pull bulb from bulb holder and  
replace it.  
Vehicle care  
239  
4. Insert bulb holder and turn  
clockwise.  
4. Pull bulb from bulb holder and  
replace it.  
5. Insert left end of the lamp, slide to  
5. Insert bulb holder into lamp  
the left and insert right end.  
housing and turn clockwise.  
6. Insert lamp into bumper and let  
engage.  
Some versions have LED number  
plate lights. In case of defective  
LEDs, have them replaced by a  
workshop.  
Number plate light  
Interior lights  
2. Remove lamp downwards, taking  
care not to pull on the cable.  
Have the following bulbs replaced by  
a workshop:  
3. Remove bulb holder from lamp  
housing by turning anticlockwise.  
courtesy light, reading lights  
load compartment light  
instrument panel illumination  
1. Insert screwdriver in recess of the  
cover, press to the side and  
release spring.  
240  
Vehicle care  
Fuse extractor  
Electrical system  
A fuse extractor may be located in the  
fuse box in the engine compartment.  
The extractor has two sides, each  
side is designed for a different type of  
fuses.  
Fuses  
Data on the replacement fuse must  
match the data on the defective fuse.  
There are three fuse boxes in the  
vehicle:  
engine compartment  
instrument panel  
load compartment  
Before replacing a fuse, turn off the  
Grab the fuse with the fuse extractor  
and withdraw the fuse.  
respective switch and the ignition.  
A blown fuse can be recognized by its  
melted wire.  
Caution  
Do not replace the fuse until the  
cause of the fault has been  
remedied.  
Some functions are protected by  
several fuses.  
Fuses may also be inserted without  
existence of a function.  
Vehicle care  
241  
No. Circuit  
Engine compartment fuse  
box  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Starter  
Starter  
Exhaust sensor  
Engine control module  
Engine functions / Aeroshutter  
Transmission control module  
Forward collision alert / Adap‐  
tive Cruise Control  
8
9
Engine control module  
Climate control system  
The fuse box is in the front left of the  
engine compartment.  
Disengage the cover and remove it.  
10 Diesel exhaust system  
11 Tailgate locking system / Trans‐  
mission  
12 Seat lumbar massage  
13 After boil pump / Diesel Exhaust  
system  
14 Diesel exhaust system  
15 Exhaust sensor  
242  
Vehicle care  
No. Circuit  
No. Circuit  
No. Circuit  
16 Fuel injection  
32 DC transformer / LED display /  
Electrical heater / Climate  
45 LED headlight left / Automatic  
headlight range adjustment left  
17 Fuel injection  
control / Glow plug controller  
46 Instrument cluster  
47 Steering column lock  
48 Rear wiper  
18 Diesel exhaust system  
33  
19  
20  
21  
34 Horn  
35 Engine control module  
49 Outside rearview mirror  
36 Right high beam (Halogen, Eco  
LED) / Right low beam (LED)  
50 LED headlight right / Automatic  
headlight range adjustment  
right  
22 ABS  
37 Left high beam (Halogen, Eco  
LED)  
23 Washer system for windscreen  
and rear window  
51 Left low beam (LED)  
38 LED headlight / Automatic  
headlight range adjustment  
24  
52 Engine control module / Trans‐  
mission control module  
25 Diesel fuel heating  
39 Front fog light  
53 Windscreen wiper  
54 Windscreen wiper  
55 Diesel Exhaust system  
26 Transmission control module  
27 Power tailgate module  
40 Central Gateway Module  
41  
28  
42 Manual headlight range adjust‐  
ment  
56  
57  
29 Heated rear window  
30 Mirror defrost  
43 Fuel pump  
31  
After having changed defective fuses,  
close the fuse box cover and press  
until it engages.  
44 Rear view camera / Inside rear  
view mirror / Trailer module  
Vehicle care  
243  
If the fuse box cover is not closed  
correctly, malfunction may occur.  
No. Circuit  
1
Rear seat heating (only for vehi‐  
cles without alarm horn)  
Instrument panel fuse box  
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Climate control system / fan  
Power seat driver side  
Power seat passenger side  
ABS  
The fuse box is located behind a  
cover.  
Power window front  
Heated steering wheel  
Body control module 8  
10 Power window rear  
11 Sunroof  
Pull the cover on the left side to  
remove.  
12 Body control module 6  
13 Seat heating (only on vehicles  
without alarm horn)  
14 Exterior mirror  
15 Body control module 1  
16 Body control module 7  
244  
Vehicle care  
2. Fold the left side of the cover  
forwards. Take care that the  
securing clamp is guided as  
shown in the illustration.  
No. Circuit  
No. Circuit  
17 Body control module 4  
18 Body control module 3  
19 Data link connector  
33 Anti-theft alarm system / Power  
sounder  
34 Parking assist / Side blind spot  
alert / Infotainment system /  
USB socket  
Load compartment fuse box  
20 Airbag system  
The fuse box is located on the left side  
of the load compartment behind a  
cover.  
35 SOS  
21 Climate control system  
22 Central locking system / tailgate  
23 Electronic key system  
24 Power seat memory function  
25 Airbag system steering wheel  
36 Info Display / Instrument cluster  
37 Infotainment system / radio  
After having changed defective fuses,  
close the fuse box cover:  
1. Apply the cover on the right side.  
26 Ignition switch / Steering  
column lock  
27 Body control module 2  
28 USB socket  
29 Cigarette lighter / Power outlet  
front  
Remove the cover.  
30 Selector lever  
31 Rear window wiper  
32 Transmission control module  
Vehicle care  
245  
No. Circuit  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
Trailer module  
Disengage the fuse box cover and  
remove it.  
11 Amplifier  
12 Front seat heating (on vehicles  
with alarm horn)  
13 Rear seat heating (on vehicles  
with alarm horn)  
14 Ignition  
15 Seat ventilation  
16 Trailer outlet  
246  
Vehicle care  
No. Circuit  
No. Circuit  
Vehicle tools  
Tools  
5-door hatchback with spare  
wheel  
17 Trailer outlet  
1
2
3
Engine control module  
18  
19  
20  
Fuel pump  
Power supply  
Open the floor cover of the load  
compartment 3 81.  
21 Electrical rear seat folding  
22  
After having changed defective fuses,  
close the fuse box cover and press  
until it engages.  
Additional fuses are located near the  
vehicle battery.  
The jack, the towing eye and the tools  
are located in the tool box below the  
spare wheel.  
Spare wheel 3 258.  
Vehicle care  
247  
Sports Tourer with spare wheel  
Open the floor cover of the load  
compartment 3 81.  
5-door hatchback without spare  
wheel  
Sports Tourer without spare  
wheel  
Open the cover in the right side wall  
of the load compartment.  
Some tools and the towing eye are  
located together with the tyre repair  
kit in a tool box.  
Open the cover on the right side of the  
load compartment.  
The tools and the towing eye are  
located together with the tyre repair  
kit in a suitcase.  
The jack, the towing eye and the tools  
are located in the tool box below the  
spare wheel.  
Spare wheel 3 258.  
248  
Vehicle care  
Directional tyres  
Tyre designations  
Wheels and tyres  
E.g. 215/50 R 16 95 H  
Directional tyres should be mounted  
so that they rotate in the correct  
direction. The proper rotation  
direction is indicated by a symbol  
(e.g. an arrow) on the sidewall.  
215 : Tyre width, mm  
Tyre condition, wheel condition  
50 : Cross-section ratio (tyre height  
to tyre width), %  
Drive over edges slowly and at right  
angles if possible. Driving over sharp  
edges can cause tyre and wheel  
damage. Do not trap tyres on the kerb  
when parking.  
Regularly check the wheels for  
damage. Seek the assistance of a  
workshop in the event of damage or  
unusual wear.  
R
: Belt type: Radial  
RF : Type: RunFlat  
16 : Wheel diameter, inches  
95 : Load index e.g. 95 is  
equivalent to 690 kg  
Tyre pressure  
Check the pressure of cold tyres at  
least every 14 days and before any  
long journey. Do not forget the spare  
wheel.  
H
: Speed code letter  
Speed code letter:  
This also applies to vehicles with tyre  
pressure monitoring system.  
Q : up to 100 mph  
S : up to 112 mph  
T : up to 118 mph  
H : up to 130 mph  
V : up to 150 mph  
W : up to 168 mph  
Winter tyres  
Winter tyres improve driving safety at  
temperatures below 7 °C and should  
therefore be fitted on all wheels.  
In accordance with country-specific  
regulations, affix the speed sticker in  
the driver's field of view.  
All tyre sizes are permitted as winter  
tyres 3 283.  
Choose a tyre appropriate for the  
maximum speed of this vehicle. Refer  
to the EEC Certificate of Conformity  
provided with the vehicle or other  
national registration documents.  
Optional equipment could reduce the  
maximum speed of the vehicle.  
Tyre pressure 3 283.  
Vehicle care  
249  
The tyre pressure information label  
on the left door frame indicates the  
original equipment tyres and the  
correspondent tyre pressures.  
The tyre pressure data refers to cold  
tyres. It applies to summer and winter  
tyres.  
Always inflate the spare tyre to the  
pressure specified for full load.  
The ECO tyre pressure serves to  
achieve the smallest amount of fuel  
consumption possible.  
Make sure tyre loading setting  
matches the current tyre pressure.  
Tyre loading 3 250.  
Incorrect tyre pressures will impair  
safety, vehicle handling, comfort and  
fuel economy and will increase tyre  
wear.  
Tyre pressures differ depending on  
various options.  
Engine data 3 278.  
Identify the respective tyre.  
The tyre pressure tables show all  
possible tyre combinations  
3 283.  
pressure as indicated on the tyre.  
Never exceed the maximum tyre  
pressure as indicated on the tyre.  
If the tyre pressure must be reduced  
or increased on a vehicle with tyre  
pressure monitoring system, switch  
off ignition.  
For the tyres approved for your  
vehicle, refer to the EEC Certificate of  
Conformity provided with your vehicle  
or other national registration  
documents.  
The driver is responsible for correct  
adjustment of tyre pressure.  
Temperature dependency  
The tyre pressure depends on the  
temperature of the tyre. During  
driving, tyre temperature and  
pressure increase. Tyre pressure  
values provided on the tyre  
information label and tyre pressure  
chart are valid for cold tyres, which  
means at 20 °C.  
The pressure increases by nearly  
1.5 psi for a 10 °C temperature  
increase. This must be considered  
when warm tyres are checked.  
The tyre pressure value displayed in  
the Driver Information Centre shows  
the real tyre pressure. A cooled down  
tyre will show a decreased value,  
which does not indicate an air leak.  
9 Warning  
If the pressure is too low, this can  
result in considerable tyre warm-  
up and internal damage, leading to  
tread separation and even to tyre  
blow-out at high speeds.  
9 Warning  
For the correct tyre pressure value,  
follow the procedure below:  
For specific tyres the  
Identify the engine identifier  
code.  
recommended tyre pressure as  
shown in the tyre pressure table  
may exceed the maximum tyre  
250  
Vehicle care  
Select the Tyre pressure page under  
the Info Menu in the Driver  
Tyre pressure monitoring  
system  
Information Centre 3 114.  
The tyre pressure monitoring system  
checks the pressure of all four tyres  
once a minute when vehicle speed  
exceeds a certain limit.  
System status and pressure warnings  
are displayed by a message  
indicating the corresponding tyre in  
the Driver Information Centre.  
The system considers the tyre  
temperature for the warnings.  
Caution  
Temperature dependency 3 248.  
Tyre pressure monitoring system  
warns only about low tyre pressure  
condition and does not replace  
regular tyre maintenance by the  
driver.  
Select the Tyre pressure page under  
the Vehicle Information Menu ? in  
the Driver Information Centre 3 114.  
Uplevel display:  
All wheels must be equipped with  
pressure sensors and the tyres must  
have the prescribed pressure.  
A detected low tyre pressure  
condition is indicated by the control  
indicator w 3 111.  
If w illuminates, stop as soon as  
possible and inflate the tyres as  
recommended 3 283.  
If w flashes for 60-90 seconds then  
illuminates continuously, there is a  
fault in the system. Consult a  
workshop.  
Notice  
In countries where the tyre pressure  
monitoring system is legally  
required, the use of wheels without  
pressure sensors will invalidate the  
vehicle operating permit.  
The current tyre pressures can be  
shown in the Driver Information  
Centre.  
Midlevel display:  
Vehicle care  
251  
After inflating, some driving may be  
required to update the tyre pressure  
values in the Driver Information  
Centre. During this time w may  
illuminate.  
If w illuminates at lower temperatures  
and extinguishes after driving, this  
could be an indicator for approaching  
a low tyre pressure condition. Check  
tyre pressure.  
The use of commercially-available  
liquid tyre repair kits can impair the  
function of the system. Factory-  
approved repair kits can be used.  
Operating electronic devices or being  
close to facilities using similar wave  
frequencies could disrupt the tyre  
pressure monitoring system.  
Each time the tyres are replaced, tyre  
pressure monitoring system sensors  
must be dismounted and serviced.  
For the screwed sensor, replace  
valve core and sealing ring. For the  
clipped sensor, replace complete  
valve stem.  
select the appropriate setting in Tyre  
Load within the Vehicle Information  
Menu 3 114. This setting determines  
the reference pressures for the tyre  
pressure warnings.  
The Tyre Load menu only appears  
when the vehicle is at a standstill and  
the parking brake is applied. On  
vehicles with automatic transmission  
the selector lever must be in P.  
Midlevel display:  
Vehicle messages 3 121.  
If the tyre pressure must be reduced  
or increased, switch off ignition.  
Only mount wheels with pressure  
sensors, otherwise the tyre pressure  
will not be displayed and w  
Use only original plastic valve caps to  
protect valve on any damage.  
illuminates continuously.  
A spare wheel or temporary spare  
wheel is not equipped with pressure  
sensors. The tyre pressure  
Caution  
Do not use metal valve caps as  
they lead to valve oxidation and  
damage.  
monitoring system is not operational  
for these tyres. Control indicator w  
illuminates. For the further three  
tyres, the system remains  
Select the Tyre load page under the  
Vehicle Information Menu ? in the  
Driver Information Centre 3 114.  
Vehicle loading status  
operational.  
Adjust tyre pressure to load condition  
according to the tyre information label  
or tyre pressure chart 3 283, and  
252  
Vehicle care  
Select  
Select  
If problems occur during the relearn  
process, a failure message is  
Light for comfort pressure up to  
Light for comfort pressure up to  
displayed in the Driver Information  
Centre. w will flash for 60 seconds  
and then illuminate continuously.  
three people.  
three people.  
Eco for Eco pressure up to three  
people.  
Max for full loading.  
Eco for Eco pressure up to  
three people.  
Max for full loading.  
If this happens, repeat learning  
process. Keep your vehicle stationary  
for approx. 20 minutes and then drive  
again for 10 minutes as described  
above.  
Uplevel display:  
Auto learn function  
After changing wheels or wheel  
positions the vehicle must be  
stationary for approx. 20 minutes,  
before the system recalculates. The  
following relearn process takes up to  
10 minutes of driving in a speed range  
of 25 to 60 mph. Avoid to drive outside  
of this range for a longer time. If  
possible, use a country road or similar  
which allows continuous driving.  
During relearn process $ can be  
displayed or pressure values can  
swap in the Driver Information Centre.  
Tread depth  
Check tread depth at regular  
intervals.  
Tyres should be replaced for safety  
reasons at a tread depth of 2-3 mm  
(4 mm for winter tyres).  
For safety reasons, it is  
recommended that the tread depth of  
the tyres on one axle should not vary  
by more than 2 mm.  
Select the Tyre load page under the  
Options Menu in the Driver  
Information Centre 3 114.  
Ensure the tyre loading status is set  
according to the selected pressure  
3 114.  
Vehicle care  
253  
If the wheel covers and tyres used are  
not factory approved, the tyres must  
not have a rim protection ridge.  
Wheel covers must not impair brake  
cooling.  
Changing tyre and wheel  
size  
If tyres of a different size than those  
fitted at the factory are used, it may be  
necessary to reprogramme the  
nominal tyre pressure and make  
other vehicle modifications.  
9 Warning  
After converting to a different tyre  
size, have the label with tyre  
pressures replaced and the tyre  
pressure monitoring system  
reinitialised 3 250.  
Use of unsuitable tyres or wheel  
covers could lead to sudden  
pressure loss and thereby  
accidents.  
The legally permissible minimum  
tread depth (1.6 mm) has been  
reached when the tread has worn  
down as far as one of the tread wear  
indicators (TWI). Their position is  
indicated by markings on the  
sidewall.  
If there is more wear at the front than  
the rear, swap round front wheels and  
rear wheels periodically. Ensure that  
the direction of rotation of the wheels  
remains the same.  
Vehicles with steel wheels: When  
using locking wheel nuts, do not  
attach wheel covers.  
9 Warning  
The use of unsuitable tyres or  
wheels may lead to accidents and  
will invalidate the vehicle  
operating permit.  
Wheel covers  
Wheel covers and tyres that are  
factory approved for the respective  
vehicle and comply with all of the  
relevant wheel and tyre combination  
requirements must be used.  
Tyres age, even if they are not used.  
We recommend tyre replacement  
every 6 years.  
254  
Vehicle care  
Temporary spare wheel  
The use of tyre chains is not permitted  
on the temporary spare wheel.  
Tyre chains  
Tyre repair kit  
Minor damage to the tyre tread can be  
repaired with the tyre repair kit.  
Do not remove foreign bodies from  
the tyres.  
Tyre damage exceeding 4 mm or that  
is at tyre's sidewall cannot be repaired  
with the tyre repair kit.  
On 5-door hatchback the tyre repair  
kit is on the right side in the load  
compartment behind a cover.  
Tyre chains are only permitted on the  
front wheels.  
9 Warning  
Always use fine mesh chains that add  
no more than 10 mm to the tyre tread  
and the inboard sides (including chain  
lock).  
Do not drive faster than 50 mph.  
Do not use for a lengthy period.  
Steering and handling may be  
affected.  
9 Warning  
If vehicle has a flat tyre:  
Apply the parking brake and engage  
first gear, reverse gear or P.  
Damage may lead to tyre blowout.  
Tyre chains are permitted on tyres of  
size 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16 and  
215/55 R16.  
Vehicle care  
255  
On Sports Tourer the tyre repair kit is  
in a suitcase on the right side of the  
load compartment behind a cover.  
The suitcase is secured with a strap.  
1. Remove the sealant bottle.  
2. Insert thumb into the opening and  
pull out the compressor.  
4. Screw the compressor air hose to  
the connection on the sealant  
bottle.  
6. Unscrew valve cap from defective  
tyre.  
7. Screw the filler hose to the tyre  
5. Fit the sealant bottle into the  
valve.  
retainer on the compressor.  
8. The switch on the compressor  
Set the compressor near the tyre  
in such a way that the sealant  
bottle is upright.  
must be set to J.  
9. Connect the compressor plug to  
the power outlet or cigarette  
lighter socket.  
3. Remove the electrical connection  
cable and air hose from the  
stowage compartments on the  
underside of the compressor.  
To avoid discharging the battery,  
we recommend running the  
engine.  
256  
Vehicle care  
When the correct pressure is  
obtained, switch off the  
compressor.  
Depending on version the button  
can be located on the air hose.  
Do not run the compressor longer  
than 10 minutes.  
10. Set the rocker switch on the  
compressor to I. The tyre is filled  
with sealant.  
11. The compressor pressure gauge  
briefly indicates up to 6 bar whilst  
the sealant bottle is emptying  
(approx. 30 seconds). Then the  
pressure starts to drop.  
If the prescribed tyre pressure is  
not obtained within 10 minutes,  
remove the tyre repair kit. Move  
the vehicle one tyre rotation.  
Reattach the tyre repair kit and  
continue the filling procedure for  
10 minutes. If the prescribed tyre  
pressure is still not obtained, the  
tyre is too badly damaged. Seek  
the assistance of a workshop.  
14. Detach the tyre repair kit. Push  
catch on bracket to remove  
sealant bottle from bracket. Screw  
the tyre inflation hose to the free  
connection of the sealant bottle.  
This prevents sealant from  
escaping. Stow tyre repair kit in  
load compartment.  
15. Remove any excess sealant  
using a cloth.  
12. All of the sealant is pumped into  
the tyre. Then the tyre is inflated.  
13. The prescribed tyre pressure  
should be obtained within  
10 minutes.  
Drain excess tyre pressure with  
the button over the pressure  
indicator.  
Tyre pressure 3 283.  
Vehicle care  
257  
16. Take the label indicating  
maximum permitted speed from  
the sealant bottle and affix in the  
driver's field of view.  
17. Continue driving immediately so  
that sealant is evenly distributed  
in the tyre. After driving approx.  
6 miles (but no more than  
If the tyre pressure has fallen  
below 1.3 bar, the vehicle must  
not be used. Seek the assistance  
of a workshop.  
The adapters possibly supplied can  
be used to pump up other items e.g.  
footballs, air mattresses, inflatable  
dinghies etc. They can be located on  
the underside of the compressor. To  
remove, screw on compressor air  
hose and withdraw adapter.  
18. Stow away tyre repair kit in load  
compartment.  
Notice  
Wheel changing  
The driving characteristics of the  
repaired tyre are severely affected,  
therefore have this tyre replaced.  
10 minutes), stop and check tyre  
pressure. Screw compressor air  
hose directly onto tyre valve and  
compressor when doing this.  
Make the following preparations and  
observe the following information:  
If unusual noise is heard or the  
compressor becomes hot, turn  
compressor off for at least  
30 minutes.  
The built-in safety valve opens at a  
pressure of 7 bar (102 psi).  
Note the expiry date of the kit. After  
this date its sealing capability is no  
longer guaranteed. Pay attention to  
storage information on sealant  
bottle.  
Replace the used sealant bottle.  
Dispose of the bottle as prescribed  
by applicable laws.  
Park the vehicle on a level, firm  
and non-skid surface. The front  
wheels must be in the straight-  
ahead position.  
Apply the parking brake and  
engage first gear, reverse gear or  
P.  
If the ground on which the vehicle  
is standing is soft, a solid board  
(max. 1 cm thick) should be  
placed under the jack.  
Take heavy objects out of the  
vehicle before jacking up.  
If tyre pressure is more than  
1.3 bar, set it to the correct value.  
Repeat the procedure until there  
is no more loss of pressure.  
No people or animals may be in  
the vehicle when it is jacked-up.  
Never crawl under a jacked-up  
vehicle.  
The compressor and sealant can be  
used from approx. -30 °C.  
258  
Vehicle care  
Do not start the vehicle when it is  
raised on the jack.  
Clean wheel nuts and thread with  
a clean cloth before mounting the  
wheel.  
Rear arm position of the lifting  
platform centrically under the relevant  
vehicle jacking point.  
Only mount one temporary spare  
wheel. Do not drive faster than  
50 mph. Take curves slowly. Do not  
use for a long period of time.  
Caution  
9 Warning  
The use of a spare wheel that is  
smaller than the other wheels or in  
combination with winter tyres  
could affect driveability. Have the  
defective tyre replaced as soon as  
possible.  
Do not grease wheel bolt, wheel  
nut and wheel nut cone.  
Jacking positions  
The jacking positions shown refer to  
the use of lifting arms and accessory  
jacks used for changing winter /  
summer tyres.  
Front arm position of the lifting  
platform centrically under the relevant  
vehicle jacking point.  
Spare wheel  
The spare wheel can be classified as  
a temporary spare wheel depending  
on the size compared to the other  
mounted wheels and country  
regulations. In this case a permissible  
maximum speed applies, even  
though no label at the spare wheel  
indicates this.  
The spare wheel is located in the load  
compartment beneath the floor  
covering.  
Vehicle care  
259  
To remove:  
1. Open the floor cover 3 81.  
2. The spare wheel is secured with a  
wing nut. Unscrew the wing nut  
and take out the spare wheel.  
Never crawl under a jacked-up  
vehicle.  
Do not start the vehicle when it is  
raised on the jack.  
Clean wheel nuts and thread with  
a clean cloth before mounting the  
wheel.  
Fitting the spare wheel  
Make the following preparations and  
observe the following information:  
Park the vehicle on a level, firm  
and non-skid surface. The front  
wheels must be in the straight-  
ahead position.  
Under the spare wheel there is the  
box with vehicle tools.  
3. When, after a wheel change, no  
wheel is placed in the spare wheel  
well, secure the tool box by  
Apply the parking brake and  
engage first gear, reverse gear or  
P.  
Remove the spare wheel.  
Never change more than one  
wheel at once.  
Use the jack only to change  
wheels in case of puncture, not  
for seasonal winter or summer  
tyre change.  
9 Warning  
Do not grease wheel bolt, wheel  
nut and wheel nut cone.  
tightening the wing nut as far as it  
will go and close floor cover.  
4. After wheel change back to full  
size wheel, place the spare wheel  
outside up in the well and secure  
with the wing nut.  
Only mount one temporary spare  
wheel. The permissible maximum  
speed on the label on the temporary  
spare wheel is only valid for the  
factory-fitted tyre size.  
1. Steel wheels with cover: Pull off  
the wheel cover.  
Alloy wheels: Disengage wheel  
nut caps with a slot screwdriver  
and remove. To protect the wheel  
paint and the cap, wrap a cloth  
around the screwdriver tip 3 246.  
The jack is maintenance-free.  
If the ground on which the vehicle  
is standing is soft, a solid board  
(max. 1 cm thick) should be  
placed under the jack.  
Take heavy objects out of the  
vehicle before jacking up.  
No people or animals may be in  
the vehicle when it is jacked-up.  
260  
Vehicle care  
the jacking point in a manner that  
prevents it from slipping.  
2. Fold out the wheel wrench and  
install ensuring that it locates  
securely and loosen each wheel  
nut by half a turn.  
3. Ensure the jack is correctly  
positioned under the relevant  
vehicle jacking point.  
Ensure that the edge of the body  
fits into the notch of the jack.  
The wheels might be protected by  
locking wheel nuts. To loosen  
these specific nuts, first attach the  
adapter for the locking wheel nuts  
onto the head of the nut before  
installing the wheel wrench. The  
adapter is located in the glovebox.  
4. Set the jack to the necessary  
height. Position it directly below  
Vehicle care  
261  
Attach wheel wrench and with the  
jack correctly aligned rotate wheel  
wrench until wheel is clear of the  
ground.  
Stowing a damaged full size  
wheel in the load compartment, 5-  
door hatchback  
The spare wheel well is not designed  
for other tyre sizes than the spare  
wheel. A damaged full size wheel  
must be stowed in the load  
compartment.  
Always store jack and tools in the  
respective storage compartments  
and secure them by fixing.  
Damaged wheel placed in the load  
compartment must always be  
secured with the strap.  
5. Unscrew the wheel nuts.  
6. Change the wheel.  
7. Screw on the wheel nuts.  
Stowing a damaged full size  
wheel in the load compartment,  
Sports Tourer  
All permitted wheel sizes can be  
stowed in the spare wheel well. To  
secure the wheel:  
8. Lower the vehicle and remove  
Vehicle tools 3 246.  
Make sure to store the wheel securely  
in the load compartment 3 89.  
jack.  
9. Install the wheel wrench ensuring  
that it is located securely and  
tighten each nut in a crosswise  
sequence. Tightening torque is  
140 Nm.  
9 Danger  
Always drive with folded up and  
engaged rear seat backrests when  
stowing a damaged full size wheel  
in the load compartment.  
10. Align the valve hole in the wheel  
cover with the tyre valve before  
installing.  
Install wheel nut caps.  
11. Stow and secure the replaced  
wheel, the vehicle tools 3 246 and  
the adapter for the locking wheel  
nuts 3 72.  
12. Check the tyre pressure of the  
installed tyre and the wheel nut  
torque as soon as possible.  
9 Warning  
Storing a jack, a wheel or other  
equipment in the load  
compartment could cause injury if  
they are not fixed properly. During  
a sudden stop or a collision, loose  
equipment could strike someone.  
Have the defective tyre renewed or  
repaired as soon as possible.  
262  
Vehicle care  
Spare wheel with directional tyre  
The following applies to tyres fitted  
opposing the rolling direction:  
Jump starting  
A vehicle with a discharged vehicle  
battery can be started using jump  
leads and the vehicle battery of  
another vehicle.  
Driveability may be affected.  
Have the defective tyre renewed  
or repaired as soon as possible  
and fit it instead of the spare  
wheel.  
Do not start with quick charger.  
The vehicle battery is located in the  
load compartment under a cover.  
There are connecting points for jump  
starting in the engine compartment.  
Drive particularly carefully on wet  
and snow-covered road  
surfaces.  
1. Remove centre cap with the brand  
emblem by pushing from the  
inside.  
9 Warning  
Be extremely careful when starting  
with jump leads. Any deviation  
from the following instructions can  
lead to injuries or damage caused  
by battery explosion or damage to  
the electrical systems of both  
vehicles.  
2. Position the wheel outside down  
in the wheel well.  
3. Secure the defective wheel with  
the wing nut.  
4. Depending on the tyre size, the  
floor cover can be placed on the  
projecting wheel.  
9 Warning  
Avoid contact of the battery with  
eyes, skin, fabrics and painted  
surfaces. The fluid contains  
Vehicle care  
263  
Do not lean over the vehicle  
battery during jump starting.  
Do not allow the terminals of one  
lead to touch those of the other  
lead.  
The vehicles must not come into  
contact with each other during  
the jump starting process.  
Apply the parking brake,  
transmission in neutral,  
automatic transmission in P.  
sulphuric acid which can cause  
injuries and damage in the event  
of direct contact.  
Never expose the vehicle battery  
to naked flames or sparks.  
A discharged vehicle battery can  
already freeze at a temperature  
of 0 °C. Defrost the frozen vehicle  
battery before connecting jump  
leads.  
Wear eye protection and  
protective clothing when  
handling a vehicle battery.  
Use a booster vehicle battery  
with the same voltage (12 V). Its  
capacity (Ah) must not be much  
less than that of the discharged  
vehicle battery.  
Open the positive terminal  
protection caps of both batteries.  
Lead connection order:  
1. Connect the red lead to the  
positive terminal of the booster  
vehicle battery.  
2. Connect the other end of the red  
lead to the positive terminal of the  
discharged vehicle battery.  
3. Connect the black lead to the  
negative terminal of the booster  
vehicle battery.  
4. Connect the other end of the black  
lead to a vehicle grounding point  
of your vehicle in the engine  
compartment.  
Use jump leads with insulated  
terminals and a cross section of  
at least 16 mm2 (25 mm2 for  
diesel engines).  
Do not disconnect the discharged  
vehicle battery from the vehicle.  
Switch off all unnecessary  
electrical consumers.  
Illustrations show different versions.  
264  
Vehicle care  
Route the leads so that they cannot  
catch on rotating parts in the engine  
compartment.  
Towing  
Towing the vehicle  
To start the engine:  
1. Start the engine of the vehicle  
providing the jump.  
2. After 5 minutes, start the other  
engine. Start attempts should be  
made for no longer than  
15 seconds at an interval of one  
minute.  
3. Allow both engines to idle for  
approx. 3 minutes with the leads  
connected.  
4. Switch on electrical consumers  
(e.g. headlights, heated rear  
window) of the vehicle receiving  
the jump start.  
Screw in the towing eye as far as it will  
go until it stops in a horizontal  
position.  
Attach a tow rope – or better still a tow  
rod – to the towing eye.  
The towing eye must only be used for  
towing and not for recovering the  
vehicle.  
Switch on ignition to release steering  
wheel lock and to permit operation of  
brake lights, horn and windscreen  
wiper.  
Wrap a cloth around the tip of a flat  
screwdriver to prevent paint damage.  
Insert the screwdriver in the slot at the  
edge of the cap. Release the cap by  
levering it out carefully.  
The towing eye is stowed with the  
vehicle tools 3 246.  
5. Reverse above sequence exactly  
when removing leads.  
Vehicle care  
265  
cases and when the transmission is  
defective, the front axle must be  
raised off the ground.  
Seek the assistance of a workshop.  
After towing, unscrew the towing eye.  
Caution  
Deactivate the driver assistance  
systems like active emergency  
braking 3 189, otherwise the  
vehicle may automatically brake  
during towing.  
Insert cap at the top and engage  
downwards.  
Switch the selector lever to neutral.  
Release the parking brake.  
Towing another vehicle  
Caution  
Screw in the towing eye as far as it will  
go until it stops in a horizontal  
position.  
The lashing eye at the rear  
underneath the vehicle must never be  
used as a towing eye.  
Drive slowly. Do not drive jerkily.  
Excessive tractive force can  
damage the vehicle.  
When the engine is not running,  
considerably more force is needed to  
brake and steer.  
Attach a tow rope – or even better a  
tow bar – to the towing eye.  
To prevent the entry of exhaust gases  
from the towing vehicle, switch on the  
air recirculation and close the  
windows.  
Vehicles with automatic transmission:  
The vehicle must be towed facing  
forwards, not faster than 50 mph nor  
further than 60 miles. In all other  
The towing eye must only be used for  
towing and not for recovering a  
vehicle.  
Insert the screwdriver in the slot at the  
edge of the cap. Release the cap by  
levering it out carefully.  
The towing eye is stowed with the  
vehicle tools 3 246.  
266  
Vehicle care  
Caution  
switched off. Remove antenna and  
external accessories such as roof  
racks etc.  
If you wash your vehicle by hand,  
make sure that the insides of the  
wheel housings are also thoroughly  
rinsed out.  
Clean edges and folds on opened  
doors and the bonnet as well as the  
areas they cover.  
Clean bright metal mouldings with a  
cleaning solution approved for  
aluminium to avoid damages.  
Appearance care  
Exterior care  
Drive slowly. Do not drive jerkily.  
Excessive tractive force can  
damage the vehicle.  
Locks  
The locks are lubricated at the factory  
using a high quality lock cylinder  
grease. Use de-icing agent only when  
absolutely necessary, as this has a  
degreasing effect and impairs lock  
function. After using a de-icing agent,  
have the locks regreased by a  
workshop.  
After towing, unscrew the towing eye.  
Insert cap at the top and engage  
downwards.  
Washing  
The paintwork of your vehicle is  
exposed to environmental influences.  
Caution  
Always use a cleaning agent with  
a pH value of four to nine.  
Do not use cleaning agents on hot  
Bird droppings, dead insects, resin,  
pollen and the like should be cleaned  
off immediately, as they contain  
aggressive constituents which can  
cause paint damage.  
If using a vehicle wash, comply with  
the vehicle wash manufacturer's  
instructions. The windscreen wiper  
and rear window wiper must be  
surfaces.  
Do not clean the engine compartment  
with a steam-jet or high-pressure jet  
cleaner.  
Thoroughly rinse and leather-off the  
vehicle. Rinse leather frequently. Use  
separate leathers for painted and  
glass surfaces: remnants of wax on  
the windows will impair vision.  
Vehicle care  
267  
Have the door hinges of all doors  
greased by a workshop.  
For mechanical removal of ice, use a  
sharp-edged ice scraper. Press the  
scraper firmly against the glass so  
that no dirt can get under it and  
scratch the glass.  
Clean smearing wiper blades with a  
soft cloth and window cleaner.  
Remove dirt residues from smearing  
wiper blades by using a soft cloth and  
window cleaner. Also make sure to  
remove any residues such as wax,  
insect residues and similar from the  
window.  
Ice residues, pollution and continuous  
wiping on dry windows will damage or  
even destroy the wiper blades.  
Wheels and tyres  
Do not use high-pressure jet  
cleaners.  
Clean rims with a pH-neutral wheel  
cleaner.  
Exterior lights  
Headlight and other light covers are  
made of plastic. Do not use any  
abrasive or caustic agents, do not use  
an ice scraper, and do not clean them  
dry.  
Rims are painted and can be treated  
with the same agents as the body.  
Paintwork damage  
Polishing and waxing  
Polishing is necessary only if the paint  
has become dull or if solid deposits  
have become attached to it.  
Plastic body parts must not be treated  
with wax or polishing agents.  
Rectify minor paintwork damage with  
a touch-up pen before rust forms.  
Have more extensive damage or rust  
areas repaired by a workshop.  
Underbody  
Some areas of the vehicle underbody  
have a PVC undercoating while other  
critical areas have a durable  
Sunroof  
Windows and windscreen wiper  
blades  
Switch off wipers before handling in  
their areas.  
Use a soft lint-free cloth or chamois  
leather together with window cleaner  
and insect remover.  
When cleaning the rear window from  
inside, always wipe in parallel to the  
heating element to prevent damage.  
Never clean with solvents or abrasive  
agents, fuels, aggressive media  
(e.g. paint cleaner, acetone-  
containing solutions etc.), acidic or  
highly alkaline media or abrasive  
pads. Do not apply wax or polishing  
agents to the sunroof.  
protective wax coating.  
After the underbody is washed, check  
the underbody and have it waxed if  
necessary.  
Bitumen / rubber materials could  
damage the PVC coating. Have  
underbody work carried out by a  
workshop.  
268  
Vehicle care  
Before and after winter, wash the  
underbody and have the protective  
wax coating checked.  
Clean fabric upholstery with a  
Plastic and rubber parts  
vacuum cleaner and brush. Remove  
Plastic and rubber parts can be  
cleaned with the same cleaner as  
used to clean the body. Use interior  
cleaner if necessary. Do not use any  
other agent. Avoid solvents and petrol  
in particular. Do not use high-  
pressure jet cleaners.  
stains with an upholstery cleaner.  
Clothing fabrics may not be  
colourfast. This could cause visible  
discolourations, especially on light-  
coloured upholstery. Removable  
stains and discolourations should be  
cleaned as soon as possible.  
Towing equipment  
Do not clean the coupling ball bar with  
a steam-jet or high-pressure jet  
cleaner.  
Air shutter  
Clean the shutter system in the front  
bumper to maintain correct  
functionality.  
Clean seat belts with lukewarm water  
or interior cleaner.  
Floor mats  
9 Warning  
Caution  
If a floor mat has the wrong size or  
is not properly installed, it can  
interfere with the accelerator pedal  
and/or brake pedal, what can  
cause unintended acceleration  
and/or increased stopping  
distance which can cause a crash  
and injury.  
Close Velcro fasteners as open  
Velcro fasteners on clothing could  
damage seat upholstery.  
The same applies to clothing with  
sharp-edged objects, like zips or  
belts or studded jeans.  
Interior care  
Interior and upholstery  
Only clean the vehicle interior,  
including the instrument panel fascia  
and panelling, with a dry cloth or  
interior cleaner.  
Clean the leather upholstery with  
clear water and a soft cloth. In case of  
heavy soiling, use leather care.  
The instrument cluster and the  
displays should only be cleaned using  
a soft damp cloth. If necessary use a  
weak soap solution.  
Use the following guidelines for  
proper floor mat usage.  
The original equipment floor mats  
were designed for your vehicle. If  
the floor mats need replacing, it  
is recommended that certified  
Vehicle care  
269  
floor mats be purchased. Always  
check that the floor mats do not  
interfere with the pedals.  
Removing  
1. Move the driver's seat backwards  
as far as possible.  
Use the floor mat with the correct  
2. Turn retainers a quarter turn  
towards the opposite direction  
than during installation.  
side up. Do not turn it over.  
Do not place anything on top of  
the driver side floor mat.  
Use only a single floor mat on the  
driver side.  
Do not place one floor mat on top  
of another.  
3. Remove the mat.  
2. Align slots in the mat with the  
retainers, as shown.  
Inserting and removing the floor  
mats  
The driver side floor mat is held in  
place by two retainers.  
To install the driver's side floor mat:  
1. Move the driver's seat backwards  
as far as possible.  
3. Turn retainers clockwise for a  
quarter turn.