Top Tether

The Mercedes E-Class (4th generation W212, 2009–2016) offers additional protection for children in the vehicle with the Top Tether system. This article explains how it works and how to correctly install the Top Tether strap. This significantly reduces the risk of injury in an accident. Discover how Mercedes-Benz guarantees safety at the highest level.

Introduction

Top Tether provides an additional connection between the ISOFIX-mounted child restraint system and the vehicle. This can further reduce the risk of injury. If the child restraint system has a Top Tether strap, always use it.

Important Safety Notes

WARNING

If the rear seat backrests are not locked, they can fold forward in an accident, during braking maneuvers or during sudden changes of direction. As a result, child restraint systems cannot protect as intended. Unlocked rear seat backrests can also cause additional injuries, for example in an accident. There is an increased risk of injury or even risk to life!

Always lock the rear seat backrests after installing the Top Tether straps. Be sure to observe the locking indicator. Set the rear seat backrests upright.

If the rear seat backrest is not engaged and locked, this is shown in the multifunction display of the instrument cluster. A warning tone also sounds.

Top Tether anchorages

Sedan

The Top Tether anchorages are installed in the rear behind the outer head restraints.

The head restraintpush up.

The coverof the Top Tether anchorageflip up.

Install the ISOFIX child restraint system with Top Tether. Be sure to observe the installation instructions from the child restraint system manufacturer.

Route the Top Tether strapunder the head restraintbetween the two head restraint posts.

Hook the Top Tether hookinto the Top Tether anchorage.

Make sure the Top Tether strapis not twisted.

Route the Top Tether strapTighten the strap. Be sure to observe the installation instructions from the child restraint system manufacturer.

The coverof the Top Tether anchoragefold down.

If necessary, push the head restraintdown slightly again. Make sure the Top Tether strapis not obstructed along its path.

Estate (T-Model)

The Top Tether anchorages are installed

The head restraintpush up.

Remove the double sunblind.

Install the ISOFIX child restraint system with Top Tether. Be sure to observe the installation instructions from the child restraint system manufacturer.

Route the Top Tether strapunder the head restraintbetween the two head restraint posts.

Hook the Top Tether hookinto the Top Tether anchorageat the back of the rear seat backrest.

Make sure the Top Tether strapis not twisted.

Route the Top Tether strapTighten the strap. Be sure to observe the installation instructions from the child restraint system manufacturer.

If necessary, push the head restraintdown slightly again. Make sure the Top Tether strapis not obstructed along its path.

Remove the double sunblind.

The Top Tether system of the Mercedes E-Class W212 (model years 2009–2016) provides additional protection for children through a secure connection between the child seat and the vehicle body. This device significantly reduces the risk of injury in an accident.

Whether sedan or estate (T-Model), the clearly defined anchorage points and simple operation of the Top Tether system underline the E-Class's safety level for the youngest passengers.

This makes the Mercedes E-Class the ideal family vehicle, with attention to safety down to the smallest detail.