2004 Mercedes CLK-Class Owner's Manual - Page 67

Safety and Security Occupant safety Emergency tensioning device (ETD), seat belt force limiter The seat belts for the front and rear seats are equipped with emergency tensioning devices and belt force limiters. The ETD is designed to activate in the following cases when the seat belt are fastened and: in frontal or rear-end impacts exceeding a preset severity level if the restraint systems are operational and functioning correctly. See 1 indicator lamp ( page 58) In an impact, emergency tensioning devices remove slack from the belts in such a way that the seat belts fit more snugly against the body. Belt force limiters reduce the force exerted by the seat belts on occupants during a crash. Never use a seat belt for more than one person at a time. Do not fasten a seat belt around a person and another person or other objects. Belts should not be worn twisted. In a crash, you wouldn't have the full width of the belt to manage impact forces. The twisted belt against your body could cause injuries. Pregnant women should also use a lap-shoulder belt. The lap belt portion should be positioned as low as possible on the hips to avoid any possible pressure on the abdomen. Never place your feet on the instrument panel or on the seat. Always keep both feet on the floor in front of the seat. Warning! G An emergency tensioning device (ETD) that was activated must be replaced. When disposing of the emergency tensioning device, our safety instructions must be followed. These are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. ! Do not place objects heavier than 20 lbs (9 kg) on the front passenger seat. This could cause the front or side impact airbag on the front passenger side to deploy in a crash which exceeds the system's deployment threshold. Automatic comfort-fit feature seat belt An automatic comfort-fit feature for front seats reduces the retracting force of the seat belts when they are in normal use. 67