Overview of climate control systems. Control unit for THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control (3 zones). Information on using THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control
The THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control of the Mercedes E-Class (4th gen, W212, 2009–2016) offers the highest level of comfort with three zones and numerous adjustment options. Driver, front passenger and rear passengers can set the temperature individually, while automatic air distribution and air dehumidification ensure an optimal climate. This keeps every journey comfortable, regardless of weather conditions.
Control unit for THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control (3 zones)

| Front control unit | |
| Automatic climate control | |
| Defrost windshield | |
| Switch ZONE function on or off | |
| Display | |
| Switch recirculation mode on or off | |
| Switch residual heat on or off | |
| Switch cooling with air dehumidification on or off | |
| Switch rear window heater on or off | |
| Switch climate control on or off | |
| Set temperature, right | |
| Set climate style | |
| Set air volume | |
| Set air distribution | |
| Set temperature, left | |
| Rear control unit | |
| Increase temperature | |
| Display | |
| Increase air volume | |
| Reduce air volume | |
| Reduce temperature |
Information on using THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control
Automatic climate control
The following notes and recommendations show you how to make the best use of THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control.
- Switch on the climate control with the buttons
and
. The indicator lamps above the buttons
and
light up. - In automatic mode, you can also set the climate style (FOCUS, MEDIUM or DIFFUSE). MEDIUM is recommended.
- Set the temperature to 22 °C
. - Use the “Defrost windshield” function only briefly, until the fogged windshield is clear again.
- Use the “Recirculation mode” function only briefly, e.g. when there are unpleasant outside odors or in a tunnel. Otherwise the windows may fog up, as no fresh air is drawn in in recirculation mode.
- To apply the driver-side temperature settings to the front passenger side and the rear area, use the "ZONE" function. The indicator lamp above the button
goes out. - To heat or ventilate the vehicle interior when the ignition is switched off, use the "Residual heat" function. The "Residual heat" function can only be switched on or off when the ignition is switched off.
- When you make climate control settings, the climate status display appears at the bottom edge of the audio or COMAND display for about three seconds (see separate operator's manual). It shows the current settings of the various climate control functions.
ECO Start/Stop function
During an automatic engine stop of the ECO start/stop function, only reduced climate control output is available. If you need full climate control output, you can switch off the ECO start/stop function using the ECO button.
The Mercedes E-Class W212 (model years 2009–2016) features THERMOTRONIC climate control, a high-end system for the most demanding requirements. Three zones allow individual settings for driver, front passenger and rear passengers, for perfect comfort on every journey.
Intuitive operation and functions such as climate style (FOCUS, MEDIUM, DIFFUSE) underline the premium character of the E-Class. This makes every journey a relaxing experience.
Question: What advantages does THERMOTRONIC offer over THERMATIC?
Answer: It allows separate control of three climate zones and additionally offers an adjustable climate style.
Question: What is the recommended climate style for everyday use?
Answer: Mercedes recommends the MEDIUM setting for balanced climate control.
Test yourself
A quick Mercedes-Benz E-Class quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.