2000 Mercedes E-Class Owner's Manual - Page 194

Important! If the electronic key is left in the steering lock position 0 for an extended period of time, it can no longer be turned in the lock. In this case, remove electronic key from steering lock and reinsert. Caution! To prevent accelerated battery discharge and a possible dead battery, always remove the electronic key from the steering lock. Do not leave the electronic key in steering lock position 0. Notes: A warning sounds when the driver's door is opened while the electronic key is in steering lock position 1 or 0. With the engine at idle speed, the charging rate of the alternator (output) is limited. It is therefore recommended that you turn off unnecessary electrical consumers while driving in stop-and-go traffic. This precaution helps to avoid draining of the battery. Unnecessary strain on the battery and charging system may be minimized by turning off the following power consumers, for example: Heated seats, rear window defroster. In addition, the automatic climate air volume control should be set to the lowest position. The steering lock can only be unlocked with the vehicle battery properly charged and connected. Steering lock Instruments and controls Operation Driving 191 Instrument cluster display Practical hints Car care Technical data Index