Work in the Engine Compartment

Exercise particular caution when working in the engine compartment!

Work in the engine compartment, e.g. checking and topping up fluids, involves risks of injury, burns, accidents and fire. For this reason, you must strictly observe the warnings given below as well as the general safety rules. The engine compartment of the vehicle is a hazardous area!

CAUTION!

• Switch off the engine.
• Remove the ignition key.
• Apply the parking brake fully.
• On vehicles with a manual transmission, put the gear lever in neutral or, on vehicles with an automatic transmission, put the selector lever in P.
• Let the engine cool down.
• Keep children away from the engine compartment.
• Never spill liquids on a hot engine. These liquids (e.g. the antifreeze contained in the coolant) may ignite!
• Avoid short circuits in the electrical system, especially at the battery.
• Never touch the radiator fan while the engine is hot. It may start up suddenly!
• Never open the coolant reservoir cap while the engine is hot. The cooling system is under pressure!
• When opening the reservoir cap, cover it with a large cloth to protect your face, hands and arms from hot steam or coolant.
• Take care if you need to carry out checks with the engine running: moving parts such as the V-ribbed belt, alternator, radiator fan, etc., and the high-voltage ignition present an additional hazard.
• Also observe the following warnings when working on the fuel system or the electrical system:

• Always disconnect the battery from the vehicle electrical system.
• Do not smoke.
• Never work near open flames.
• Always keep a working fire extinguisher within easy reach.

Warning!

Take care not to confuse fluids when topping up.

Otherwise, serious malfunctions may occur or the engine may be severely damaged.

Environment

To detect leaks in good time, regularly check the underbody of the vehicle. If you notice oil or other fluid stains on the underbody, have the vehicle inspected at a workshop.

Note

On vehicles with right-hand drive, some of the reservoirs described below are located on the other side of the engine compartment.