Loading guidelines

WARNING
Always fasten items being carried as securely as possible. Use cargo tie-down rings and fastening materials appropriate for the weight and size of the load.
In an accident, during hard braking or sudden maneuvers, loose items will be thrown around inside the vehicle. This can cause injury to vehicle occupants unless the items are securely fastened in the vehicle.
To help avoid personal injury during a collision or sudden maneuver, exercise care when transporting cargo. Do not pile luggage or cargo higher than the seat backrests.
The trunk is the preferred place to carry objects.
Never drive a vehicle with the trunk open.
Deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle interior resulting in unconsciousness and death.

The handling characteristics of a laden vehicle are dependent on the distribution of the load within the vehicle. For this reason, you should observe the following notes when transporting a load:
• when transporting a load, never exceed the maximum permissible gross vehicle weight or the gross axle weight rating of the vehicle (including occupants). The values are specified on the vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar of the driver's door.
• position heavy loads as far forwards as possible and as low down in the trunk as possible.
• the load must not protrude above the upper edge of the seat backrests.
• always place the load against the rear seat backrests.
• always place the load behind unoccupied seats if possible.
• secure the load with sufficiently strong and wear-resistant tie down. pad sharp edges for protection.

    See also:

    Important safety notes
    DISTRONIC PLUS regulates the speed and automatically helps you maintain the distance to the vehicle detected in front. It brakes automatically in order to avoid exceeding the set speed. On lo ...

    Setting climate control to automatic
    WARNING If you switch off the cooling function, the vehicle will not be cooled when weather conditions are warm. The windows can fog up more quickly. Window fogging may impair visibility an ...

    Tires
    Problem Possible causes/consequences and Solutions USA only: The yellow tire pressure monitor warning lamp (pressure loss/ malfunction) is lit. Canada onl ...