2006 Mercedes R-Class Owner's Manual - Page 489

Practical hints Battery ! The battery is a valve-regulated lead acid (VRLA) battery, also referred to as "fleece" battery. Such batteries do not require topping-up of the electrolyte level. VRLA batteries therefore do not have cell caps and the battery cover is non-removable. Do not attempt to open the battery as otherwise the battery will be damaged. Even though VRLA batteries do not require topping-up of the electrolyte level and cannot be opened to check the electrolyte level, the battery condition must be checked periodically by performing a battery conductance test. Refer to Maintenance Booklet for battery condition testing intervals. As with any other battery, the battery may discharge if the vehicle is not operated for an extended period of time. You can connect a battery maintenance charge unit tested and approved for use on your vehicle model or disconnected the battery to prevent battery discharge. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center for more information. ! The factory-equipped VRLA battery is leak-proofed. Only use a battery as replacement that has the same security features and is of identical size, voltage, and capacity as the factory-equipped battery. The battery, the battery ventilation and the lateral plug must always be securely installed when the vehicle is in operation. Warning! G Jump starting must only be done using the jump-start contacts located in the engine compartment ( page 496). 488