2003 Mercedes C-Class Owner's Manual - Page 202

Controls in detail Loading Loading instructions Always place items being carried against front or rear seat backrests, and fasten them as securely as possible. The heaviest portion of the cargo should always be kept as low as possible since it influences the handling characteristics of the vehicle. Warning! The total load weight including vehicle occupants and luggage/cargo should not exceed the vehicle capacity weight indicated on the certification tag which can be found on the left door pillar. The handling characteristics of a fully loaded vehicle depend greatly on the load distribution. It is therefore recommended to load the vehicle according to the illustrations shown, with the heaviest items being placed towards the front of the vehicle. To help avoid personal injury during a collision or sudden maneuver, exercise care when transporting cargo. Never drive vehicle with trunk open. Deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle interior resulting in unconsciousness and death. G i The trunk is the preferred place to carry objects. The enlarged cargo area should only be used for items which do not fit in the trunk alone. Always fasten items being carried as securely as possible. In an accident, during hard braking or sudden maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle and can cause injury to vehicle occupants unless the items are securely fastened in the vehicle. 202