Loading Guidelines
The loading guidelines in the Mercedes E-Class (4th generation, W212, 2009–2016) help you stow cargo safely and avoid accidents. This section warns of the dangers of unsecured objects and gives detailed information on how cargo should be secured correctly to prevent injuries.
WARNINGIf items, luggage or cargo are unsecured or insufficiently secured, they can slip, tip over or be thrown around and hit vehicle occupants. There is a risk of injury, especially during braking maneuvers or abrupt changes of direction!
Always stow items so that they cannot be thrown around. Secure items, luggage or cargo against slipping or tipping over before driving.WARNING
Combustion engines emit toxic exhaust gases such as carbon monoxide. If the trunk lid/tailgate is open while the engine is running, especially while driving, exhaust gases can enter the vehicle interior. There is a risk of poisoning!Always switch off the engine before opening the trunk lid/tailgate. Never drive with the trunk lid/tailgate open.
WARNING
Exhaust tailpipes and tailpipe trims can become very hot. Touching these vehicle parts can cause burns. There is a risk of injury!Always take special care in the area of the exhaust tailpipes and tailpipe trims. Allow these vehicle parts to cool down before touching them.
The handling of a loaded vehicle depends on the load distribution. When loading and transporting cargo, therefore observe and follow these instructions:
- Do not exceed the permissible gross vehicle weight and the permissible axle loads of the vehicle, including the payload and occupants.
- Items to be carried should preferably be stowed in the luggage compartment or cargo area.
- Push heavy cargo as far forward as possible and stow it as low as possible in the luggage compartment or cargo area.
- Do not load above the upper edge of the seat backrests.
- Always place cargo against the backrests of the rear or front seats. Make sure the seat backrests are locked correctly.
- If possible, always transport cargo behind unoccupied seats.
- Use the tie-down eyelets and the luggage nets to transport cargo and luggage.
- Use tie-down eyelets and fastening materials that are suitable for the weight and size of the load.
- When transporting items in the cargo area, always install the double roller blind (cargo area cover and safety net).
- Secure your cargo with sufficiently tear-resistant and abrasion-resistant tie-down equipment. Pad sharp edges.

The loading guidelines for the Mercedes E-Class W212 (model years 2009–2016) are a key part of the safety concept. They help secure the cargo optimally and reduce the risk of injury during braking maneuvers or accidents.
Particular attention should be paid to load distribution and the use of suitable tie-down equipment. This maintains driving stability and ensures that the E-Class lives up to its promise of the highest safety.
Mercedes shows here how important precise instructions and high-quality technology are for safe transport.
Test yourself
A quick Mercedes-Benz E-Class quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.