Useful information
These Operating Instructions describe all mod-
els as well as standard and optional equipment
of your vehicle that were available at the time of
going to print. Country-specific variations are
possible. Note that your vehicle may not be fit-
ted with all of the described functions. This also
applies to safety-relevant systems and func-
tions.
Read the information on qualified specialist
workshops: (
Y
page 32).
Loading guidelines
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
When objects are unsecured or inadequately
secured, they can slip, turn over or be thrown
about, striking vehicle occupants. This also
applies to:
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luggage or loads
R
seats which have been removed and are
being transported in the vehicle in an
exceptional case.
There is a risk of injury, particularly in the
event of braking manoeuvres or abrupt
changes in direction.
Always stow objects in such a way that they
cannot be tossed about. Before travelling,
secure objects, luggage or load to prevent
them slipping or tipping over. If you remove a
seat, store it preferably outside the vehicle.
G
WARNING
As a result of improperly placed or unevenly
distributed loads, the centre of gravity of the
load being transported may be too high or too
far back. This can significantly impair handling
as well as steering and braking characteris-
tics. There is a risk of an accident.
Always make sure that the centre of gravity of
the load is:
R
between the axles
and
R
as low as possible, near the rear axle.
G
WARNING
When the permissible wheel loads, axle loads
and/or the maximum permissible gross vehi-
cle weight are exceeded, driving safety is
compromised. The handling as well as steer-
ing and braking characteristics may be signif-
icantly impaired. Overloaded tyres may over-
heat, causing them to burst. There is a risk of
an accident.
When transporting a load, always observe the
permissible wheel loads, axle loads and the
maximum permissible gross vehicle weight
for the vehicle (including occupants).
!
If you are using a roof carrier, observe the
maximum roof load and maximum roof carrier
load.
R
Do not stack luggage or loads higher than the
backrests.
R
Objects to be transported should preferably
be stowed in the load compartment.
R
When transporting luggage, always use the
lashing eyelets for securing loads and a safety
net, if fitted.
R
Use lashing eyelets and fasteners which are
suitable for the weight and size of the load.
Always observe the operating instructions of the
respective manufacturer when using suitable
load securing aids or lashing material and par-
ticularly the information on the end of service
life contained in these Operating Instructions.
Load securing aids or lashing material must not
be used if there is:
R
missing or illegible marking
R
yarn breaks, damage to load-bearing seams
or other traces of cracking
R
cutting, deformations, squashed areas or
other damage
R
damage to clamping elements or fasteners
These types of load securing aids or lashing
material are worn out; they should not be used
and must be replaced. If you use load securing
aids or lashing materials which are worn out, the
load may not be sufficiently secured and could
cause damage to property.
312
Loading guidelines
Transporting loads with the vehicle
