Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe 320, Operator'S Manual

Page: 370 / 408

Battery
368
Never touch the battery first. First touch
the outside body of the vehicle in order to
release any possible electrostatic charges.
Do not rub the battery with rags or cloths.
The battery could explode if touched due to
electrostatic charge or due to spark
formation.
! The battery is a Valve-Regulated Lead
Acid (VRLA) battery, also referred to as
“fleece” battery.
Such batteries do not require topping-up of
the electrolyte level. VRLA batteries
therefore do not have cell caps and the
battery cover is non-removable. Do not
attempt to open the battery as otherwise
the battery will be damaged.
Even though VRLA batteries do not require
topping-up of the electrolyte level and
cannot be opened to check the electrolyte
level, the battery condition must be
checked periodically by performing a
battery conductance test. Refer to
Maintenance Booklet for battery condition
testing intervals.
The factory-equipped VRLA battery is leak-
proofed. Only use a battery as replacement
that has the same security features and is
of identical size, voltage, and capacity as
the factory-equipped battery.
! As with any other battery, have the
battery disconnect at a qualified workshop
or an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center if
you do not intend to operate your vehicle
for an extended period of time to prevent
battery discharge. You may also connect an
accessory battery charge unit expressly
approved by Mercedes-Benz for your
vehicle model to maintain the battery
charge. Contact an authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center for further information.
The battery, the battery ventilation hose
and the lateral plug must always be
securely installed when the vehicle is in
operation.
! Never loosen or detach battery terminal
clamps while the engine is running or the
SmartKey is in the starter switch or
KEYLESS-GO button is in position
1.
Otherwise the alternator and other
electronic components could be severely
damaged.
Have the battery checked regularly at an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
Refer to Maintenance Booklet for
maintenance intervals or contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for
further information.
i After battery power was interrupted, do
the following:
R
Synchronize the power windows
(
Y
page 122).
R
Synchronize the tilt/sliding sunroof
(
Y
page 196) or the tilt/sliding panel
(
Y
page 199).
Charging the battery
G
Warning!
Never charge a battery while still installed
in the vehicle unless the accessory battery
charge unit approved by Mercedes-Benz is
being used. Gases may escape during
charging and cause explosions that may
result in paint damage, corrosion or
personal injury.
An accessory battery charge unit specially
adapted for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and
tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz is
available, permitting the charging of the
battery in its installed position. Contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for
information and availability.
Practical hints