14 Correct and safe ›  Introductory notes for correct use Regular checks Correct and safe Introductory notes for correct use ▶ Read this Owner's Manual carefully, as proceeding in accordance with this manual is a prerequisite for the correct use of the vehicle. This Owner's Manual should therefore always be in the vehicle. ▶ When using the vehicle, the generally binding legal provisions that are specific to the country must be observed. Such as those for transporting children, switching off airbags, using tyres, road traffic and the like. ▶ Do not exceed the maximum permissible weights and loads. ▶ Do not exceed the maximum permissible roof load. ▶ Use the specified fuel and operating fluids. ▶ Drive on roads that meet the technical vehicle pa- rameters. Obstacles that exceed the ground clear- ance of the vehicle » page 153 can damage the ve- hicle when driving over them. ▶ Care must be taken during operations related to operation, maintenance and self-help to avoid damage to the vehicle or injury. If required, seek the help of a specialised garage. ▶ All work on the vehicle’s safety systems may only be carried out by a specialist garage. This concerns e.g. the seat belts or the airbag system. ▶ When using accessories, please note the instruc- tions in the accessory manufacturer’s instruction manual. These include child seats, roof racks, com- pressors etc. ▶ Please note the service intervals. What should be taken into account before driving? A vehicle with technical defects can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. Eliminate any defects before driving. If required, seek the help of a specialised garage. Pay special attention to the following points: ▶ Is the tyre undamaged? ▶ Is the tyre tread sufficient? ▶ Is the tyre pressure sufficient? ▶ Do the headlamps, brake and turn signals work? ▶ Is the windscreen in good condition? ▶ Is the engine oil, brake fluid and coolant level OK? ▶ Is the air intake in the engine compartment free from obstruction? ▶ Are the air outlet nozzles or air intake in front of the windscreen free from obstruction? ▶ Are the windscreen wiper and washer system and windscreen wiper blades functional? ▶ Is the windscreen washer fluid level sufficient? ▶ Are the windscreen wiper blades in good condi- tion? ▶ Are all seatbelt system components in good work- ing order? Are the seatbelts clean and have the buckles been unclogged? ▶ Is the spoiler working properly? ▶ Are parts and components of the vehicle still visi- bly attached? ▶ Are there no oil stains or other operating fluids un- der the vehicle? New vehicle or new parts Improper vehicle adjustments Improper changes and maintenance can cause mal- functions and affect safety-relevant and other func- tions of the vehicle. New vehicle - Running in the engine Driving style during the first 1500 km determines the quality of the engine run-in process. ▶ Adjustments, repairs and technical changes to the vehicle should only be carried out by a specialist garage. ▶ Never cover the engine with additional insulation material, e.g. with a cover. ▶ During the first 1000 km, rev the engine to max. 3/4 of the highest permissible engine speed and avoid using a trailer. ▶ Over the next 500 km, the engine speed can be slowly increased. Keep sensors and cameras functional Depending on driving style and operating conditions, the engine consumes some oil, up to 0.5 l/1000 km. Consumption may be higher over the next 5000 km. New brake pads New tyres New brake pads do not provide the optimum braking effect during the first 200 km, they have to be worn in first. Therefore, drive very carefully. New tyres do not have optimum grip for the first 500 km. Therefore, drive very carefully. Some functions of your vehicle are supported by sensors and cameras inside and outside the vehicle. Accessories additionally installed on the vehicle rear, such as bicycle carriers, can impair the functioning of the sensors and cameras. ▶ Do not cover or stick over the sensors and cam- eras and keep them clean.