2000 Mercedes SL-Class Owner's Manual - Page 240

Instruments and controls Battery Operation Driving Instrument cluster display Practical hints Car care Technical data Index 236 Battery Warning! Failure to follow these instructions can result in severe injury or death. Never lean over batteries while connecting, you might get injured. Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow this fluid to come in contact with eyes, skin or clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with water and seek medical help. A battery will also produce hydrogen gas, which is flammable and explosive. Keep flames or sparks away from battery, avoid improper connection of jumper cables, smoking etc. Important! Battery replacement information: The maintenance-free battery is located in the trunk behind the right side cover panel. The service life of the battery is dependent on its condition of charge. The battery should always be kept sufficiently charged, in order to last an optimum length of time. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you have the battery charge checked frequently, and corrected if necessary, especially if you use the vehicle less than approximately 200 miles (300 km) per month, mostly for short distance trips, or if it is not used for long periods of time. Only charge a battery with a battery charger after the battery has been disconnected from the vehicle's electrical circuit. Always disconnect the battery negative lead first and connect last. When removing and connecting the battery, always make sure that all electrical consumers are off and the key is in steering lock position 0. The battery must always be securely installed when the vehicle is in operation. During removal and installation always protect the disconnected battery positive (+) terminal with the cover attached to the battery. While the engine is running the battery terminal clamps must not be loosened or detached, otherwise the generator and other electronic components will be damaged. Important!