2000 Mercedes E-Class Owner's Manual - Page 80

• Airbags and "ETR's" are designed to function on a one-time-only basis. An airbag or emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) that was activated must be replaced. • No modifications of any kind may be made to any components or wiring of the "SRS". This includes changing or removing any component or part of the "SRS", the installation of additional trim material, badges etc. over the steering wheel hub, front passenger airbag cover, door trim panels, or door frame trims, and installation of additional electrical/ electronic equipment on or near "SRS" components and wiring. Keep area between airbags and occupants free of objects (e.g. packages, purses, umbrellas, etc.). • Do not use handles above doors for placing such items as coat hangers etc.. • An airbag system component within the steering wheel gets hot after the airbag has inflated. Do not touch. • Improper work on the system, including incorrect installation and removal, can lead to possible injury through an unintended activation of the "SRS". • In addition, through improper work there is the risk of rendering the "SRS" inoperative or causing unintended deployment. Work on the "SRS" must therefore only be performed by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. • For your protection and the protection of others, when scrapping the airbag unit or emergency tensioning retractor, our safety instructions must be followed. These instructions are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. • Given the considerable deployment speed and the textile structure of the airbags, there is the possibility of abrasions or other injuries resulting from airbag deployment. When you sell the vehicle we strongly urge you to give notice to the subsequent owner that it is equipped with an "SRS" by alerting him to the applicable section in the Operator's Manual. 77 Restraint systems Instruments and controls Operation Driving Instrument cluster display Practical hints Car care Technical data Index