2001 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 53

Instruments and controls Operation Driving Instrument cluster display 50 Practical hints Car care Technical data Index Restraint systems Warning! USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY. • Seat belts can only work when used properly. Never wear seat belts in any other way than as described in this section, as that could result in serious injuries in case of an accident. • Each occupant should wear their seat belt at all times, because seat belts help reduce the likelihood of and potential severity of injuries in accidents, including rollovers. The integrated restraint system includes "SRS" (driver airbag, front passenger airbag, front and rear door mounted side impact airbags), "ETR" (seat belt emergency tensioning retractors for the outboard passenger seats [except in the optional 3rd row seats]), and front seat knee bolsters. The system is designed to enhance the protection offered to properly belted occupants in certain frontal (front airbags) and side (side impact airbags) impacts which exceed preset deployment thresholds. Operation The inertia reel stops the belt from unwinding during sudden vehicle stops or when quickly pulling on the belt. The locking function of the reel may be checked by quickly pulling out the belt. Unfastening of seat belts Push the release button (3) in the belt buckle (2). Allow the retractor to completely rewind the seat belt by guiding the latch plate (1).