Things to remember when driving
Vehicle features and options
This chapter describes model-specific equipment, systems, and functions that are currently available, or may become available in the future, even if they are not present in the vehicle.
Additional information:
Vehicle equipment.
Break-in procedures
General information
Moving parts need to work together smoothly.
The following instructions will help you to achieve a long vehicle life and good efficiency.
During break-in, do not use the Launch Control.
Safety information
Observe the break-in procedures
Engine, transmission, and axle drive
Up to 600 miles/1,000 km
Drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do not exceed 5000 rpm and 106 mph/170 km/h.
Avoid full throttle or kickdown under all circumstances.
From 600 miles/1,000 km to 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do not exceed 6000 rpm and 130 mph/210 km/h.
Avoid full load in gears 1 to 3.
At 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Have break-in service maintenance performed.
Tires
Tire traction is not optimal due to manufacturing circumstances when tires are brand new.
Drive conservatively for the first 200 miles/300 km.
Brake system
For M Compound brake:
M Compound brake disks and brake pads must be run in to avoid possible brake noise. Drive cautiously for the first approx. 300 miles/500 km.
For M carbon ceramic brake:
M Carbon ceramic brake disks and brake pads must be run in to avoid possible brake noise. Drive cautiously for the first approx. 600 miles/1000 km.
Clutch
The function of the clutch reaches its optimal level only after a distance driven of approx. 300 miles/500 km. During this break-in period, engage the clutch gently.
Following part replacement
Observe the break-in procedures again if components mentioned above are replaced.
General driving notes
Closing the trunk lid
Safety information
Driving with the trunk lid closed
Driving with the trunk lid open
If the vehicle still needs to be driven with the trunk lid open:
Close all windows and the glass sunroof.
Greatly increase the blower output.
Drive moderately.
Fasten the trunk lid, e.g., with a tensioning belt.
Hot exhaust system
Do not touch the hot exhaust system
Avoid contact with hot parts of the vehicle
Exhaust gas particulate filter
Principle
The exhaust gas particulate filter collects soot particles. The soot particles are burned at high temperatures to clean the exhaust gas particulate filter as necessary.
General information
During several minutes of cleaning the following may occur:
Temporarily, the engine may run less smoothly.
A somewhat higher RPM is necessary to reach usual power development.
A slight smoke formation coming from the exhaust system, even after the engine is switched off.
Noises such as those caused by the radiator fan running, even several minutes after the engine is switched off.
Overrun of the radiator fan for several minutes is normal even after short trips.
Attachment point for radio systems
With climate comfort windshield: the marked area is not covered with heat-reflective coating.
The marked area can be used for the attachment of radio systems, e.g.:
Vehicle laminated glass
The vehicle laminated glass provides complete protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation on the skin.
Mobile radio in the vehicle
Observe when using mobile communication devices
Aquaplaning
On wet or slushy roads, a wedge of water can form between the tires and road surface.
This phenomenon is referred to as aquaplaning. It is characterized by a partial or complete loss of contact between the tires and the road surface, ultimately undermining your ability to steer and brake the vehicle.
Driving through water
General information
When driving through water, follow the following:
Only drive through when the combustion engine is running.
Prevent the combustion engine from shutting down, e.g., by deactivating Auto Start/Stop.
Drive through calm water only.
Drive through water only up to a maximum height of 9.8 inches/25 cm.
Drive through water at a maximum of walking speed, up to 3 mph/5 km/h.
Safety information
Observe water level and speed
Braking safely
General information
The vehicle is equipped with an Antilock Braking System as a standard feature.
Perform emergency braking when appropriate. To achieve the best possible braking assistance, do not reduce the pressure on the brake pedal during full braking.
Steering is still responsive. You can still avoid any obstacles with a minimum of steering movement.
The pulsation of the brake pedal and sounds from the hydraulic circuits indicate that the Antilock Braking System is in its active mode.
The pulsation of the brake pedal indicates that the Antilock Braking System is adjusting.
In certain braking situations, the perforated brake disks can emit function-related noises. However, function-related noises have no effect on the performance and operational reliability of the brake.
Objects in the travel path of the pedals
No objects in the travel path of the pedals
Pedal feel when driving off
After turning on drive-ready state from idle state, the pedal may feel unusual, e.g., the pedal travel path may feel short or long. After the brake pedal has been fully released, the pedal will feel as usual again.
Driving in wet conditions
In case of wet roads, exposure to road salt or in heavy rain, gently depress the brake pedal every few kilometers.
Ensure that this action does not endanger other road users.
The heat generated while braking dries brake disks and brake pads and protects them against corrosion.
In this way the brake power will be available when you need it.
Hills
General information
Drive long or steep downhill gradients in the gear that requires least braking effort. Otherwise, the brake system may overheat and reduce braking effect.
You can increase the engine braking effect by downshifting, going all the way to first gear, if needed.
Safety information
Avoid stressing the brakes
Do not drive in idle or with drive-ready state switched off
Brake disk corrosion
Corrosion on the brake disks and contamination on the brake pads are increased by the following circumstances:
Low mileage.
Extended stationary periods.
Infrequent use of the brakes.
Aggressive, acidic, or alkaline cleaning agents.
Corrosion buildup on the brake disks will cause a pulsating effect on the brakes when braking slowly - generally this cannot be corrected.
Condensation water under the parked vehicle
When using the automatic climate control, condensation water develops and collects underneath the vehicle.
Ground clearance
Ensure sufficient ground clearance
Driving in the higher speed range
Observe with damage to the vehicle
Roof bars
General information
Roof racks are available as optional accessories.
Safety information
Do not deactivate DSC when driving with roof load
Roof strip with flaps
The mounting points are located in the roof strip above the doors.
Fold the cover outward.
Installation
Follow the assembly instructions for the roof bars.
Be sure that adequate clearance is maintained for tilting and opening the glass sunroof.
Loading
Because luggage racks raise the vehicle's center of gravity when loaded, they have a major effect on vehicle handling and steering response.
When loading and driving, note the following:
Do not exceed the approved roof/axle weights and the approved gross vehicle weight.
Distribute the roof load uniformly.
The roof load should not extend past the loading area.
Always place the heaviest pieces on the bottom.
Secure the roof luggage firmly, for instance using luggage straps.
Do not let objects project into the swiveling range of the trunk lid.
Drive carefully. Do not drive off or brake suddenly or take corners at speed.
Driving on racetracks
Race track operation
Higher mechanical and thermal loads during racetrack operation lead to increased wear. Use of the vehicle in M Sport or motor sport type competition is an improper use of the vehicle and may affect your warranty coverage. Please consult the “New Vehicle Limited Warranty” Booklet for further information on warranty matters.
When driving on a racetrack, increase the duration of the load slowly.
The standard brake pads and the wear indicators are not designed for racetrack operation.
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