2002 Mercedes CLK-Class Owner's Manual - Page 74

Side impact airbags The side impact airbags are designed to activate only in certain side impacts exceeding a preset threshold. Only the side impact airbag on the impacted side of the vehicle deploys. The side impact airbag for the front passenger deploys only if the front passenger seat is occupied. Side impact airbags operate best in conjunction with a properly positioned and fastened seat belt. Note: Heavy objects on front passenger seat can cause the side impact airbag to deploy in a crash. Important! Airbags are designed to activate only in certain frontal (front airbags) impacts, or side (side impact airbags) impacts which exceed preset thresholds. Only during these types of impacts, if of sufficient severity to meet the deployment thresholds, will they provide their supplemental protection. The driver and passenger should always wear their seat belts, otherwise it is not possible for the airbags to provide their intended supplemental protection. In cases of other frontal impacts, angled impacts, roll-overs, other side impacts, rear collisions, or other accidents in which the airbags are not designed to deploy, the airbags will not be activated. The driver and passenger will then be protected by the fastened seat belts. We caution you not to rely on the presence of the airbags in order to avoid wearing your seat belt. Restraint systems Instruments and controls Operation Driving Instrument cluster display 71 Practical hints Car care Technical data Index