2007 Mercedes CL-Class Owner's Manual - Page 659

Practical hints Batteries ! The consumer battery located in the trunk 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 consumer 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, disconnect the consumer battery if you do not intend to operate your vehicle for an extended period of time to prevent battery discharge or connect an accessory battery charge unit expressly approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle model to maintain the battery charge. Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for further 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. 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. Warning! Warning! G G 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 if necessary. 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. Take care that you do not become statically charged, e.g. by wearing synthetic clothing or rubbing against textiles. For this reason, you also should not pull or push the battery over carpets or other synthetic materials. Never touch the battery first. First touch the outside body of the vehicle in order to release any possible electrostatic charges. 656