Sequence of works
"Daily maintenance"
1. Before starting the engine, check the oil level on a cold engine.
2. Place the vehicle on a horizontal surface.
3. Wait 5 minutes for all the oil to drain into the crankcase.
4. Pull out the dipstick. Wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Insert the dipstick into the socket as far as it will go, wait a bit, and then pull it out and check the oil level again.
Fig. 4.34. Markings on the dipstick
5. If the oil level is between the markings on the dipstick, everything is OK. Oil should be added only if its level approaches the "minimum" mark. The area between the "minimum" and "maximum" markings corresponds to a volume of 2 liters (Fig. 4.34).
6. Use a clean funnel to add oil.
7. Add enough oil so that the level is below the "maximum" mark (top marking).
ASSYST system - oil control while driving
Since March 1997, Mercedes cars have been equipped with the new ASSYST service system for monitoring oil while driving. The system is based on many years of research into the service life of motor oils. The oil in cars that are driven exclusively in the city and on short distances is "used out" after only 5,000 km. At the same time, in cars used primarily for long-distance travel and on expressways at speeds of 80 to 150 km/h, the oil change intervals are closer to 30,000 km. The ASSYST system takes these different operating conditions of engines into account. A microcomputer, based on information received from various sensors, records the actual condition of the motor oil and draws up a maintenance plan for the engine. One of the indicators of "aging" of the oil, for example, records the content of iron particles in it, which increases sharply after only 5,000 km on short-distance trips.
In order to be able to determine the factors influencing the oil level and consumption, Mercedes-Benz has developed a special sensor. It heats up when the oil level is high or low and also determines the time when the oil needs to be changed. In addition, the sensor detects changes in the oil structure, such as metal additives, fuel or coolant, and warns the driver about this. By pressing the appropriate button with the ignition on, the display will show the oil condition and level.