2004 Mercedes E-Class Owner's Manual - Page 376

Practical hints Batteries ! Never loosen or detach battery terminal clamps while the engine is running or the SmartKey is in the starter switch. Otherwise the alternator and other electronic components could be severely damaged. Have the battery checked regularly by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Refer to Service Booklet for maintenance intervals or contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further information. Disconnecting the battery Warning! G The SBC brake system requires electrical power to operate. A malfunction in the vehicle's power supply or electrical system may impair brake system operation and switch it into its emergency operation mode. The same applies if battery is disconnected. To brake, the driver must then apply significantly greater brake pedal pressure and depress the pedal much further to obtain the expected braking effect. If necessary, apply full pressure to the brake pedal. Brakes may only be applied to the front wheels. Stopping distance is increased! Adjust your driving style accordingly. For more information, refer to "SBC brake system" ( page 79). Warning! With a disconnected battery G you will no longer be able to turn the SmartKey in the starter switch and pressing the KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button on the gear selector lever will have no effect the gear selector lever will remain locked in position P Warning! G Depress parking brake firmly or move gear selector lever to position P. Turn off all electrical consumers. Remove SmartKey from starter switch. Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO*: Press the start/stop button until the engine shuts off. Open the driver's door. Open the trunk. Do not place metal objects on the battery as this could result in a short circuit. Use leak-proof battery only to avoid the risk of acid burns in the event of an accident. 376