X
Always transport loads in the cargo compart-
ment and with the seat backrests folded up
and properly locked in position.
X
Always place the load against the backrests of
the front or rear seats.
X
Move large and heavy loads as far towards the
front of the vehicle as possible against the
front or rear seats. Stow the load flush with
the rear or front seats.
X
Always additionally secure the load with suit-
able load-securing aids or tie downs.
Observe the following notes:
R
Do not stack loads higher than the upper edge
of the backrests.
R
Transport loads behind seats that are not
occupied.
R
If the rear bench seat is not occupied, insert
the seat belts crosswise into the buckle of the
opposite seat belt.
Cargo compartment variations
You can vary the cargo compartment according
to your transportation requirements as follows:
R
by folding the seat backrests forward to the
table position.
R
by removing the rear bench seat.
You will find information about rear bench seats
in the "Rear bench seats" section (
Y
page 86).
Securing loads
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
If you attach the tie-down incorrectly when
securing the load, the following may occur in
the event of abrupt changes in direction, brak-
ing maneuvers or an accident:
R
the cargo tie-down rings may become
detached or the tie-down may tear if the
permissible load is exceeded
R
the load may not be restrained.
This may cause the load to slip, tip over or be
tossed about, striking vehicle occupants.
There is a risk of an accident and injury.
Always tension the tie-downs in the proper
manner and only between the described
cargo tie-down rings. Always use tie-downs
designed specifically for the loads.
!
Observe the information on the maximum
loading capacity of the individual cargo tie-
down points.
If you use several cargo tie-down points to
secure a load, you must always take the max-
imum loading capacity of the weakest cargo
tie-down point into account.
If you brake hard, for example, the forces act-
ing could be up to several times the weight
force of the load. Always use multiple cargo
tie-down points in order to distribute the force
absorption. Load the anchorages evenly.
Spread the load evenly across the cargo tie-
down points/cargo tie-down rings. You will find
information on the maximum loading capacity of
the cargo tie-down points under "Cargo tie-
down points and carrier systems" (
Y
page 304).
Do not attempt to modify or repair the cargo tie-
down points/cargo tie-down rings or tie downs.
Read the information on qualified specialist
workshops: (
Y
page 30).
As the driver, you are responsible for ensuring
that:
R
The load is secured against slipping, tipping,
rolling or falling off in normal traffic condi-
tions, should the vehicle swerve to avoid an
obstacle, in the event of full brake application
and on poor road surfaces.
R
The applicable requirements and guidelines
relating to load-securing practices must be
met.
If this is not the case, this may constitute a
punishable offense, depending on local legis-
lation and any ensuing consequences.
Always observe the legal requirements for the
country you are currently in.
Make sure that the load is secure before every
journey and at regular intervals during a long
journey. Correct an incorrectly or inadequately
secured load if necessary.
Always observe the operating instructions or the
notes of the lashing strap manufacturer for the
operation of the lashing strap.
You can obtain information about securing the
load correctly from the manufacturer of the load
securing aids or tie down for securing the load.
Securing loads
235
Transpo
rting
lo
ads
Z
