234 Checking and refilling levels
Opening the bonnet
Fig. 179 Release catch
under the bonnet
Before opening the bonnet make sure that the windscreen wiper
arms are not lifted away from the glass. Otherwise the paint may
be damaged.
–Lift the bonnet slightly ⇒ .
–Press the release catch under the bonnet upwards ⇒ Fig. 179.
This will release the arrester hook under the bonnet.
–Open the bonnet.
The bonnet is held in position by a gas-filled strut.
WARNING
Never open the bonnet if you see steam or drips of coolant being re-
leased from the engine compartment. Failure to comply could result in
burns. Wait until no steam or coolant can be seen before opening the
bonnet.
Work in the engine compartment
Extra caution is necessary when working on components in
the engine compartment.
Always be aware of the danger of injury and scalding as well as the risk of
accident or even fire when working in the engine compartment (e.g. when
checking and refilling fluids). Always observe the warnings listed below
and follow all general safety precautions. The engine compartment of the
vehicle is a potentially hazardous area ⇒
WARNING
●Switch the engine off.
●Remove the ignition key.
●Apply the handbrake firmly.
●If your vehicle is equipped with a manual gearbox, place the gear lev-
er in neutral. If you are driving an automatic vehicle, place the selector
lever in position P.
●Wait for the engine to cool down.
●Children should not be allowed to approach the engine compartment.
●Never spill liquids used for vehicle operation on the engine compart-
ment, as these may catch fire (e.g. coolant).
●Take care not to cause short circuits in the electrical system, especial-
ly when working on the battery.
●Never touch the radiator fan while the engine is hot, as the fan could
start up suddenly.
●Never open the expansion tank when the engine is hot. The cooling
system is under pressure.
●Protect face, hands and arms from any hot steam or hot coolant fluid
released by covering the cap with a large, thick rag when opening the ex-
pansion tank.
