EasyManua.ls Logo

Mercedes-Benz S 420 User Manual

Mercedes-Benz S 420
153 pages
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
Page #1 background imageLoading...
Page #1 background image
1
Mercedes-Benz
Operator's Manual
S
32
0
S 42
0
S 5
00

Table of Contents

Question and Answer IconNeed help?

Do you have a question about the Mercedes-Benz S 420 and is the answer not in the manual?

Mercedes-Benz S 420 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandMercedes-Benz
ModelS 420
CategoryAutomobile
LanguageEnglish

Summary

Operator's Manual

Product Information

Recommendations for Use

Guidelines for using Mercedes-Benz original parts and approved accessories for optimal reliability and safety.

Operator's Manual Details

Owner's Service and Warranty Policy

Information on warranties covering your Mercedes-Benz, including new car, emission, and performance warranties.

Important Notices and Services

California Retail Buyer Notice

Details California lemon law rights for vehicle replacement or refund after repair attempts.

Maintenance

Information on necessary maintenance work to be performed at regular intervals.

Roadside Assistance

Provides factory-trained technical help in case of a breakdown, including a toll-free number.

Ownership and International Operation

Change of Address or Ownership

Instructions for updating address or selling the vehicle to inform the manufacturer.

Operating Outside USA or Canada

Awareness of service facilities and parts availability when operating vehicles in foreign countries.

Manual Disclaimer

Pre-Drive Checks and Warnings

Break-in Period (First 1000 Miles)

Guidance on treating the vehicle during the initial break-in period for optimal performance.

Radio Transmitter Warning

Caution regarding the operation of radio transmitters and potential electronic system interference.

Instruments and Controls Overview

Instrument Cluster Details

Detailed descriptions of gauges and indicators within the instrument cluster.

Indicator Lamp Symbols

Explanation of various indicator lamps and their meanings for vehicle functions and warnings.

Vehicle Systems

Catalytic Converter

Information on the catalytic converter's function and maintenance recommendations for proper operation.

Engine Operation

Starting and Turning off the Engine

Procedures for starting and stopping the engine, including cold and hot engine conditions.

Driving Guidance

Power Assistance

Information on brake and steering system power assistance when the engine is not running.

Brakes and Safety

Guidance on brake usage, warnings about brake pad wear, and system maintenance.

Tire Care and Safety

Tread Wear Indicators

Explanation of tread wear indicators and when tires should be replaced for safety.

Aquaplaning

Information on aquaplaning and how to drive cautiously in wet conditions.

Tire and Parking Safety

Tire Traction and Speed Rating

Guidance on tire traction in different conditions and understanding tire speed ratings.

Parking Procedures

Step-by-step instructions for safely parking the vehicle, including engaging the parking brake.

Driving Conditions and Passenger Safety

Winter Driving Instructions

Advice for driving in slippery conditions, including handling skidding and road salt effects.

Passenger Compartment Safety

Warning about securing items in the passenger compartment to prevent injury during accidents.

Climate Control Components

Air Outlets

Description and operation of various air outlets within the cabin for ventilation.

Dust Filter

Information on the dust filter's role in cleaning outside air entering the passenger compartment.

Automatic Climate Control System

Vehicle Access and Security

Car Keys and Types

Details on master, valet, and flat keys, and obtaining replacement keys.

Infrared Remote Control Operation

Instructions for using the infrared remote control for locking, unlocking, and window operation.

Infrared Remote Control Details

Vehicle Locking Systems

Central Locking System

Operation of the central locking system for doors, trunk, and fuel filler flap.

Doors and Locking

Manual locking and unlocking of individual doors from inside and outside the vehicle.

Trunk Locking

Window and Roof Operation

Door and Trunk Lock Operation

Using the key in door or trunk locks to close windows and the sliding roof.

Power Windows and Sliding/Pop-Up Roof

Operation of power windows and the sliding/pop-up roof, including express functions.

Power Closing Assistance

Power Closing Assist for Doors and Trunk Lid

Automatic closing of doors and trunk lid via a pneumatic power-assisted mechanism.

Security Systems

Anti-Theft Alarm System

Arming and disarming the anti-theft alarm system using keys or remote control.

Seat Adjustment

Power Seats, Front

Instructions for adjusting front seats, including warnings about adjusting while driving.

Memory Seat and Mirror Settings

Seat Comfort Features

Lumbar Support

Description of inflatable lumbar support system and its pressure regulator.

Multicontour Backrest

Information on orthopedic seats with inflatable cushions for lumbar and side support.

Seat Heating

Heated Seats Operation

Instructions for operating front and rear seat heaters, including power consumption.

Front Seat Comfort

Armrest with Compartment

Details on the front seat armrest with a compartment for a telephone handset.

Rear Seat Adjustment

Power Seats, Rear

How to adjust rear seats using slide switches located in the rear doors.

Rear Seat Features

Armrest with Storage

Description of the rear bench seat armrest with integrated storage compartment.

Head Restraints, Rear

Operation of rear head restraints, including folding for visibility and safety.

Rear Headrest Adjustment

Power Head Restraints, Rear

How to operate rear power head restraints using switches on the console or doors.

Steering Wheel Adjustment

Occupant Restraint Systems

Seat Belts and SRS

Overview of seat belts, emergency tensioning retractors, and the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS).

Seat Belt Warning System

Explanation of the seat belt warning system and audible alerts for unfastened belts.

Seat Belt Fastening and Unfastening

Seat Belt and Child Restraint Usage

Proper Seat Belt Usage

Guidelines for correct seat belt positioning to maximize protection and avoid injury.

Child Restraint System Usage

Recommendations for using infant and child restraint systems in accordance with safety standards.

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)

Emergency Tensioning Retractor (ETR)

Details on the ETR system which tightens seat belts during major frontal impacts.

Airbag System

Airbag System Overview

Location and function of driver and passenger airbags, and system readiness verification.

Airbag System Safety

Airbag System Limitations

Airbag activation limitations and the importance of seat belt usage for supplemental protection.

Proper Seating Position for Airbags

Guidance on seating positions to ensure safe distance from inflating airbags.

Safety Guidelines for SRS Components

Child Safety

Infants and Child Restraint Systems

Legal requirements and recommendations for child restraint systems.

Steering Lock and Key Operation

Driver Controls

Combination Switch Functions

Operation of the combination switch for turn signals, headlights, and wipers.

Wiper and Washer Systems

Windshield Washer Fluid and Wiper Operation

Information on washer fluid mixing, wiper operation, and troubleshooting.

Exterior Lighting

Exterior Lamp Switch Functions

Controls for exterior lamps, including parking, low beam, high beam, and fog lamps.

Standing Lamps

How to use standing lamps for visibility when parking.

Mirror Adjustments

Inside Rear View Mirror

Adjustment of the inside rear view mirror and antiglare night position.

Exterior Rear View Mirrors

Mirror Features and Storage

Exterior Mirror Multiple Images

Explanation of multiple images in exterior mirrors due to dual-pane glass.

Storing Mirror Positions

How to store exterior and inside mirror positions in memory for recall.

Interior Comfort Features

Sun Visors

Usage of sun visors for glare protection, including side adjustment.

Illuminated Vanity Mirrors

Operation of illuminated vanity mirrors in front and rear seats.

Interior Lighting Controls

Interior Lamps (Door Contact)

Operation of interior lamps based on door contact, delayed switching, and ignition status.

Reading and Courtesy Lamps

Control of front reading lamps and rear courtesy lamps for interior illumination.

Storage Compartment Usage

Dashboard Storage Compartments

Details on storage/eyeglasses compartments and the glove box.

Door Storage Compartments

Description of door pockets and compartments for items like umbrellas.

Convenience Features

Ashtrays and Lighter

Operation and maintenance of ashtrays and the cigarette lighter.

Sliding Roof Operation

Sliding Roof with Pop-Up Feature

Operation of the sliding roof and pop-up feature, including manual emergency procedures.

Power Window Operation

Power Window Controls

Description of power window switches located in the center console and rear doors.

Express Window Operation

Using express open/close functions for windows and interrupt procedures.

Window and Sunshade Operation

Synchronizing Power Windows

Procedure to resynchronize power windows after a power supply interruption.

Rear Window Sunshade

Operation of the rear window sunshade for raising and lowering.

Defroster and Trunk Release

Rear Window Defroster

Operation of the rear window defroster, including automatic shut-off and power consumption.

Trunk Lid Release Switch

How to open the trunk using the console switch or the infrared remote control.

Instrument Panel Functions

Instrument Lamps and Display

Adjusting instrument panel illumination and understanding display illumination.

Trip Odometer and Clock Setting

Resetting the trip odometer and setting the vehicle's clock.

Vehicle Storage and Communication

Shelf below Rear Window Warning

Warning against storing objects on the rear window shelf due to potential injury.

Cellular Telephone Usage

Information on cellular telephone installation and safety warnings regarding mobile phone use while driving.

Driving Information

Driving Precautions

Drinking and Driving Warning

Serious warnings about the dangers of drinking and driving.

Parking Brake Operation

Instructions for engaging and releasing the parking brake and associated warning lamp.

Driving Off Procedure

Steps for safely driving off, including testing brakes and warming up the engine.

Transmission Operation

Automatic Transmission Basics

How the automatic transmission selects gears based on vehicle speed and accelerator position.

Accelerator Position and Kickdown

Understanding accelerator pedal positions for shifting and kickdown for maximum acceleration.

Selector Lever Positions

Driving Maneuvers and Stopping

Stopping Procedures and Warnings

Guidance on stopping the vehicle, including warnings about parking on inclines.

Driving Techniques and Warnings

Driving on Slippery Surfaces

Advice on driving on slippery roads, including warnings against downshifting.

Maneuvering and Stopping on Inclines

Techniques for maneuvering and stopping on inclines, with warnings about parking brake usage.

Vehicle Exterior Features

Rear Fender Indicators

Description of rear fender indicators that extend when reversing.

Cruise Control Operation

How to operate the cruise control system for maintaining set speeds.

Cruise Control Functions

Warning Lamp Indicators

Charge Indicator Lamp

Information on the charge indicator lamp and potential causes for illumination.

Engine Oil Pressure and Level Warnings

Interpreting engine oil pressure gauge and low oil level warning lamp.

Instrument Gauges

Engine Oil Consumption

Factors affecting engine oil consumption, especially during the break-in period.

Fuel Consumption Gauge

Explanation of the fuel consumption gauge readings in MPG or L/100 km.

Tachometer

Understanding the tachometer, redline limits, and engine speed warnings.

Fluid Level and Temperature Indicators

Fuel Reserve and Outside Temperature

Explanation of the fuel reserve warning lamp and the outside temperature indicator.

Coolant Temperature Gauge and Warnings

Interpreting the coolant temperature gauge and warnings about engine overheating.

Low Engine Coolant Level Warning

Washer Fluid Level Warning

Information on the washer fluid level warning lamp and reservoir refill.

Indicator Lamp Explanations

Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator

How the exterior lamp failure indicator works and what it signifies.

Seat Belt and Brake Pad Wear Indicators

Explanation of seat belt warning and brake pad wear indicator lamps.

Brake Warning Lamp

Braking System Technologies

Antilock Brake System (ABS)

How ABS improves steering control during braking and its operational principles.

Traction Control Systems

Electronic Traction System (ETS)

How ETS improves traction, especially on slippery roads, and its operational limits.

Acceleration Slip Control (ASR)

ASR Control Switch

Suspension System

Adaptive Damping System (ADS)

How ADS automatically adjusts ride firmness based on driving conditions and style.

ADS Adjustment Settings

Selecting between firm and soft damping programs for sporty or regular driving.

Engine and Emissions Control

Emission Control System

Information on emission control systems and maintenance requirements.

On-Board Diagnostic System

How the diagnostic system monitors emission components and indicates malfunctions.

Seasonal Driving Preparations

Winter Driving Recommendations

Advice for winterizing the car, including engine oil, coolant, and tire recommendations.

Snow Chain Usage

Guidelines for using snow chains, including approved types and speed limitations.

Practical Hints

Under the Hood Operations

Hood Opening and Closing

Procedure for opening and closing the vehicle hood, with safety warnings.

Fluid Level Checks and Additives

Checking Coolant Level

Instructions for checking coolant level and adding coolant when necessary.

Adding Coolant

Recommendations for the coolant mixture and potential hazards associated with adding coolant.

Checking Engine Oil Level

Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid Level

Vehicle Storage and Tools

Trunk Lamp Operation

How to switch the trunk lamp on or off to prevent battery discharge.

Spare Wheel and Lug Wrench

Location and removal of the spare wheel and lug wrench from the trunk.

First Aid Kit and Stowing

Location of the first aid kit and guidelines for safely stowing items in the vehicle.

Vehicle Jack and Tools

Vehicle Jack Usage and Warnings

Safe procedures for using the vehicle jack, including warnings about stability and safety.

Tool Box Storage Compartment

Location and access to the tool box storage compartment.

Wheels and Tires

Wheel and Tire Specifications

Information on recommended tire types, sizes, and wheel specifications.

Tire Replacement and Rotation

Guidelines for replacing tires, including rotation recommendations and bolt tightening.

Changing Wheels Procedure

Wheel Installation Details

Wheel Bolt Installation

Steps for installing wheel bolts, including warnings about damaged threads or bolts.

Wheel Mounting Bolt Precautions

Tire Pressure Management

Tire Inflation Pressure Guidelines

Recommendations for tire inflation pressure based on load and temperature conditions.

Tire Overinflation and Overloading Warnings

Warnings against overinflating tires or overloading the vehicle to prevent blowouts.

Battery Care and Recycling

Battery Maintenance and Disconnection

Instructions for battery maintenance, charging, and disconnection procedures.

Battery Recycling and Warnings

Information on battery recycling and safety warnings related to battery handling.

Exterior Lamp Systems

Exterior Lamps Overview

Overview of exterior lamp components and replacement guidelines.

Headlamp Assembly Components

Identification of parts within the headlamp assembly for bulb replacement.

Bulb Replacement Procedures

Exterior Lamp Adjustments

Turn Signal, Parking, Side Marker Lamps

Replacement procedure for turn signal, parking, side marker, and standing lamps.

Headlamp Adjustment Guide

Instructions on how to adjust headlamp aim for proper road illumination.

Vertical and Horizontal Headlamp Aiming

Taillamp and License Plate Lamp Replacement

Lighting and Electrical Components

High Mounted Stop Lamp Replacement

Procedure for replacing the bulb in the high mounted stop lamp.

Fuse Box Locations and Replacement

Location of fuse boxes and guidelines for replacing blown fuses.

Emergency Starting Procedures

Jump Starting a Discharged Battery

Step-by-step instructions for jump starting a vehicle with a dead battery.

Jump Starting Safety and Cable Specifications

Towing and Vehicle Systems

Towing the Vehicle Safely

Recommendations for towing the vehicle, including flatbed transport and speed limits.

Towing with Traction Control Systems

Precautions when towing with vehicles equipped with ASR or ETS to prevent system engagement.

Vehicle Cleaning and Care

General Cleaning Precautions

Warnings about using cleaning products and general care for the vehicle's exterior.

Engine Cleaning and Car Washing

Tar Stains, Window Cleaning, Wiper Blades

Procedures for removing tar stains, cleaning windows, and replacing wiper blades.

Interior and Exterior Care

Plastic Parts, Seat Belts, and Interior Surfaces

Care instructions for plastic parts, seat belts, and interior surfaces.

Leather Upholstery Care

Guidelines for cleaning and maintaining leather upholstery to prevent discoloration.

Exterior Surface Care

Paintwork and Body Components Care

Recommendations for maintaining paintwork, gloss preserver, and polish.

Light Alloy Wheels and Ornamental Moldings

Cleaning procedures for light alloy wheels and care for ornamental moldings.

Remote Control System Maintenance

Testing and Changing Remote Batteries

How to test remote control batteries and procedures for changing them.

Synchronizing the Remote Control System

Steps to re-synchronize the remote control system after a voltage interruption.

Head Restraint Adjustment and Safety

Front Head Restraints Removal and Installation

Detailed instructions for removing and installing front head restraints.

Manual Vehicle Access

Manual Closing of Trunk Lid

Procedure for manually closing the trunk lid in case of power system malfunction.

Manual Release of Fuel Filler Flap

How to manually release the fuel filler flap if the central locking system fails.

Wiper Blade Replacement

Wiper Blade Removal and Installation

Step-by-step guide for replacing windshield wiper blades.

Specialized Operations

Headlamp Wiper Blades

Procedure for replacing the wiper blades on the headlamp washers.

Emergency Operation of Sliding Roof

Manual operation of the sliding roof in case of electrical malfunction.

Vehicle Structure and Drive Systems

Roof Rack Installation

Guidelines for installing approved roof racks to avoid vehicle damage.

Poly-V-belt Drive Layout

Diagrams showing the layout of the poly-V-belt drive for different S-Class models.

Interior Components and Service

Rear Seat Cushion Removal and Installation

Instructions for removing and installing the rear seat cushion.

Spare Parts Service Information

Information on the availability and quality of genuine Mercedes-Benz original spare parts.

Technical Data

Identification Plates

Location of vehicle identification and engine numbers for ordering spare parts.

Vehicle Documentation and Warranty

Vehicle Data Card

Importance of the vehicle data card for key replacement and service information.

Warranty Coverage Details

Overview of warranty coverage, including new vehicle, emission systems, and performance warranties.

Technical Data for S 320

Weights and Dimensions (S 320)

Specifications for weights, dimensions, engine, electrical system, and tires for the S 320 model.

Technical Data for S 420

Weights and Dimensions (S 420)

Specifications for weights, dimensions, engine, electrical system, and tires for the S 420 model.

Technical Data for S 500

Transmission Downshift Points

Information on downshift points for transmission control in various driving conditions.

Weights and Dimensions (S 500)

Specifications for weights, dimensions, engine, electrical system, and tires for the S 500 model.

Fluid Capacities

Fluid Specifications

Lubricant and Fuel Recommendations

Engine Oils and Additives

Recommendations for engine oils and warnings against using oil additives.

Air Conditioner Refrigerant and Brake Fluid

Information on refrigerant types and brake fluid maintenance and replacement intervals.

Premium Unleaded Gasoline Precautions

Precautions when using regular gasoline if premium unleaded is unavailable.

Fuel Requirements and Additives

Fuel Requirements

Specifications for premium unleaded gasoline, octane number, and oxygenate usage.

Gasoline Additives

Recommendations for using quality gasoline additives to prevent carbon deposits.

Coolant System Information

Coolants and Antifreeze

Information on engine coolant mixture, freeze protection, and corrosion protection.

Tire Grading Information

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Explanation of tire grades for treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance.

Tire Traction and Temperature Grades

Understanding tire grades related to braking traction and heat resistance.

Vehicle Problem Resolution

Reporting Vehicle Problems

Instructions on how to report vehicle problems to an authorized dealer or regional office.

Safety Defect Reporting

Reporting Safety Defects to NHTSA

Guidance on reporting vehicle defects that could cause crashes or injuries to NHTSA.

Service and Literature Information

Authorized Dealer Services

Importance of using authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers for service and repairs.

Service Literature Availability

How to obtain service literature for your vehicle from an authorized dealer.

Regular Checks Before Driving

Fuel and Tire Pressure Checks

Procedures for checking fuel supply and tire inflation pressure regularly.

Coolant, Oil, and Brake Fluid Checks

Instructions for checking coolant level, engine oil level, and brake fluid.

Gas Station Information

Fuel, Engine Oil, and Transmission Fluid

Information on fuel types, engine oil checks, and transmission fluid level checks.

Coolant, Spark Plugs, Bulbs, and Tires

Details on coolant, spark plugs, bulb types, and tire pressure.

Related product manuals