2013 Mercedes-benz GL Class Owners Manual

Wet roads If you have driven for a long time in heavy rain without braking, there may be a delayed reaction from the brakes when braking for the first time. This may also occur after the vehicle has been washed or driven through deep water. You then have to depress the brake pedal more firmly. Maintain a greater distance from the vehicle in front. After driving on a wet road or having the vehicle washed, brake firmly while paying attention to the traffic conditions. This will warm up the brake discs, thereby drying them more quickly and protecting them against corrosion.

Limited braking performance on salt- treated roads If you drive on salted roads, a layer of salt residue may form on the brake discs and brake pads. This can result in a significantly longer braking distance. RBrake occasionally to remove any possible

salt residue. Make sure that you do not endanger other road users when doing so. RCarefully depress the brake pedal and the

beginning and end of a journey.

RMaintain a greater distance to the vehicle

ahead.

New brake pads/linings New and replaced brake pads and discs only reach their optimum braking effect after several hundred kilometers of driving. Compensate for this by applying greater force to the brake pedal. For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only have brake pads/ linings installed on your vehicle which have been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which correspond to an equivalent quality standard. Brake pads/linings which have not been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or

which are not of an equivalent quality could affect your vehicle's operating safety.

Servicing the brakes ! If the red brake warning lamp lights up in

the instrument cluster and you hear a warning tone while the engine is running, the brake fluid level may be too low. Observe additional warning messages in the multifunction display. The brake fluid level may be too low due to brake pad wear or leaking brake lines. Have the brake system checked immediately. This work should be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop.

! A function or performance test should

only be carried out on a 2-axle dynamometer. If you are planning to have the vehicle tested on such a dynamometer, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center to obtain further information first. Otherwise, you could damage the drive train or the brake system.

! Because ESP® is an automatic system, the engine and ignition must be switched off (SmartKey in position 0 or 1 or Start/ Stop button in position 0 or 1) when the electric parking brake is being tested on a brake dynamometer (maximum 10 seconds). Braking triggered automatically by ESP® may seriously damage the brake system.

All checks and maintenance work on the brake system must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop. Consult a qualified specialist workshop to arrange this. Have brake pads installed and brake fluid replaced at a qualified specialist workshop. If the brake system has only been subject to moderate loads, you should test the functionality of your brakes at regular intervals. To do so, press firmly on the brake pedal when driving at a high speed. This improves the grip of the brake pads.

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You can find a description of Brake Assist (BAS) on (Y page 67) or of BAS PLUS on (Y page 67). Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only have brake pads/linings installed on your vehicle which have been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which correspond to an equivalent quality standard. Brake pads/linings which have not been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which are not of an equivalent quality could affect your vehicle's operating safety. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use brake fluid that has been specially approved for your vehicle by Mercedes-Benz, or which corresponds to an equivalent quality standard. Brake fluid which has not been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which is not of an equivalent quality could affect your vehicle's operating safety.

Driving on wet roads Hydroplaning If water has accumulated to a certain depth on the road surface, there is a danger of hydroplaning occurring, even if: Ryou drive at low speeds. Rthe tires have adequate tread depth. For this reason, in the event of heavy rain or in conditions in which hydroplaning may occur, you must drive in the following manner: Rlower your speed. Ravoid ruts. Rbrake carefully.

Driving on flooded roads ! Do not drive through flooded areas.

Check the depth of any water before driving through it. Drive slowly through standing water. Otherwise, water may enter the vehicle interior or the engine compartment. This can damage the electronic

components in the engine or the automatic transmission. Water can also be drawn in by the engine's air suction nozzles and this can cause engine damage.

i Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package: set the raised level before driving through standing water.

Off-road fording ! Under no circumstances should you

accelerate before entering the water. The bow wave could cause water to enter and damage the engine and other assemblies.

! Do not open any of the vehicle's doors while fording. Otherwise, water could get into the vehicle interior and damage the vehicle's electronics and interior equipment.

: Fording depth

Vehicles without the ON&OFFROAD package Raised level

Vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package Off-road level 3

Fording depth

20 in (50 cm)

23.6 in (60 cm)

Off-road level 2

Off-road level 1

Fording depth 20 in (50 cm) 20 in (50 cm)

REstablish how deep the water is and the

characteristics of the body of water before fording.

RVehicles with the AIRMATIC package: select the highest possible vehicle level.

RRestrict the shift range to 1 or 2. RAvoid high engine speeds. REnter and exit the water at a flat place and

at a steady walking pace.

RDrive slowly and at an even speed through

the water.

RDo not stop. RWater offers a high degree of resistance,

and the ground is slippery and in some cases unstable. Therefore, it is difficult and dangerous to pull away in the water.

REnsure that a bow wave does not form as

you drive.

RClean any mud from the tire tread after

fording.

RApply the brakes to dry them after fording.

Winter driving General notes G WARNING If you shift down on a slippery road surface in an attempt to increase the engine's braking effect, the drive wheels could lose their grip. There is an increased danger of skidding and accidents. Do not shift down for additional engine braking on a slippery road surface.

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G DANGER If the exhaust pipe is blocked or adequate ventilation is not possible, poisonous gases such as carbon monoxide (CO) may enter the vehicle. This is the case, e.g. if the vehicle becomes trapped in snow. There is a risk of fatal injury. If you leave the engine or the auxiliary heating running, make sure the exhaust pipe and area around the vehicle are clear of snow. To ensure an adequate supply of fresh air, open a window on the side of the vehicle that is not facing into the wind.

Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop at the onset of winter. i Vehicles with a diesel engine: do not cover the radiator, e.g. with a protective cover. The measuring function of the onboard diagnosis system may otherwise provide inaccurate values. Some of these values are required by law and must therefore always be accurate.

Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 396).

Driving with summer tires Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 396).

Slippery road surfaces G WARNING If you shift down on a slippery road surface in an attempt to increase the engine's braking effect, the drive wheels could lose their grip. There is an increased danger of skidding and accidents. Do not shift down for additional engine braking on a slippery road surface. G WARNING The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose.

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Indicated temperatures just above the freezing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice. The road may still be icy, especially in wooded areas or on bridges.

If the vehicle threatens to skid or cannot be stopped when moving at low speed: X Shift the transmission to position N. i For more information on driving with

snow chains, see (Y page 397).

Drive particularly carefully on slippery road surfaces. Avoid sudden acceleration, steering and braking maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS.

Off-road driving Important safety notes G WARNING If you drive on a steep incline at an angle or turn when driving on an incline, the vehicle could slip sideways, tip and rollover. There is a risk of an accident. Always drive on a steep incline in the line of fall (straight up or down) and do not turn the vehicle. G WARNING If the vehicle level is high, the vehicle center of gravity is raised. This could cause the vehicle to tip over more easily on uphill or downhill gradients. There is a risk of an accident. Select the lowest possible vehicle level.

When driving off-road, sand, mud and water, possibly mixed with oil, for example, could get into the brakes. This could result in a reduced braking effect or in total brake failure and also in increased wear and tear. The braking characteristics change depending on the material ingressing the brakes. Clean the brakes after driving off-road. If you detect a reduced braking effect or grinding noises,

have the brake system checked in a qualified specialist workshop as soon as possible. Adapt your driving style to the different braking characteristics. Driving off-road increases the likelihood of damage to the vehicle, which, in turn, can lead to failure of the mechanical assembly or systems. Adapt your driving style to suit the terrain conditions. Drive carefully. Have damage to the vehicle rectified immediately at a qualified specialist workshop. Do not switch to transmission position N when driving off-road. You could lose control of the vehicle if you attempt to brake using the service brake. If the gradient is too steep, drive backwards in reverse gear.

General notes Read this section carefully before driving your vehicle off-road. Practice by driving over more gentle off-road terrain first. Familiarize yourself with the characteristics of your vehicle and the gear shift operation before driving through difficult terrain. The following driving systems are specially adapted to off-road driving: ROff-road ABS (Y page 66) RAIRMATIC package (vehicle level)

RDSR (Downhill Speed Regulation)

(Y page 208)

(Y page 248)

Observe the following notes: RStop the vehicle before starting to drive

along an off-road route.

RFor vehicles with the AIRMATIC

package: select a vehicle level that is suitable for the off-road terrain. To avoid damaging the vehicle, make sure there is always sufficient ground clearance.

RCheck that items of luggage and loads are

stowed safely and are well secured (Y page 335).

RAlways keep the engine running and in gear

when driving on a downhill gradient. Activate DSR (Y page 248).

RAlways keep the doors, tailgate, windows and sliding sunroof closed while driving.

RAdapt your speed to the terrain. The rougher, steeper or more ruts on the terrain, the slower your speed should be. RDrive slowly and at an even speed through the water. Ensure that a bow wave does not form as you drive.

RDrive with extreme care on unknown off-

road routes where visibility is poor. For safety reasons, get out of the vehicle first and survey the off-road route.

RLook out for obstacles such as rocks, holes,

tree stumps and furrows.

RCheck the depth of water before fording

rivers and streams.

RWhen fording, do not stop and do not

switch off the engine.

ROn sand, drive quickly to overcome the

rolling resistance. Otherwise the vehicle's wheels could become stuck in loose ground.

RDo not jump with the vehicle as this will

interrupt the vehicle's propulsion.

RAlways keep the engine running and in gear

when driving on a slope.

RDo not shift the automatic transmission to

transmission position N.

i Do not use the HOLD function when

driving off-road, on steep uphill or downhill gradients or on slippery or loose surfaces. The HOLD function cannot hold the vehicle on such surfaces.

Checklist before driving off-road ! If the engine oil warning lamp lights up

while the vehicle is in motion, stop the vehicle in a safe place as soon as possible. Check the engine oil level. The engine oil warning lamp warning must not be ignored. Continuing the journey while the symbol is displayed could lead to engine damage.

X Engine oil level: check the engine oil level

and add oil if necessary.

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187

When driving on steep gradients, the engine oil level must be sufficiently high to ensure a correct oil supply in the vehicle. X DEF tank (BlueTEC vehicles): check the

fluid level and, if necessary, refill to the maximum (13 l) (Y page 176).

X Wheel-changing tool kit: check that the jack is working and make sure you have the lug wrench, a robust tow cable and a folding spade in the vehicle.

X Wheels and tires: check the tire tread

depth and tire pressure.

X Check for damage and remove any foreign

objects, e.g. small stones, from the wheels/tires.

X Replace any missing valve caps. X Replace dented or damaged wheels. X Rims: dented or bent rims can result in a loss of tire pressure and damage the tire bead. Therefore, check your rims before driving off-road and replace them as required.

Checklist after driving off-road ! If you detect damage to the vehicle after driving off-road, have the vehicle checked immediately at a qualified specialist workshop.

X Deactivate DSR (Y page 248). X Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package: lower the vehicle to a ride height suitable for the road conditions, e.g. to the highway/high-speed level.

X Clean the headlamps and rear lights and

check for damage.

X Clean the front and rear license plates. X Clean the wheels/tires with a water jet and

remove any foreign objects.

X Clean the wheels, wheel housings and the vehicle underside with a water jet; check for any foreign objects and damage.

X Check whether twigs or other parts of

plants have become trapped. These increase the risk of fire and can damage

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fuel pipes, brake hoses or the rubber bellows of the axle joints and propeller shafts.

X After the trip, examine without fail the

entire undercarriage, wheels, tires, brakes, bodywork structure, steering, chassis and exhaust system for damage.

X After driving for extended periods across sand, mud, gravel, water or in similarly dirty conditions, have the brake discs, wheels, brake pads/linings and axle joints checked and cleaned.

X If you detect strong vibrations after off-road

travel, check for foreign objects in the wheels and drive train and remove them if necessary. Foreign objects can disturb the balance and cause vibrations.

Driving over rough terrain places greater demands on your vehicle than driving on normal roads. After driving off-road, check the vehicle. This allows you to detect damage promptly and reduce the risk of an accident to yourself and other road users.

Driving on sand Observe the following rules when driving on sand: Rvehicles with the AIRMATIC package:

select a raised vehicle level.

Ravoid high engine speeds. Rselect a shift range appropriate to the

terrain.

Tire ruts and gravel roads ! Check that the ruts are not too deep and that your vehicle has sufficient clearance. Otherwise, your vehicle could be damaged or bottom out and get stuck.

Observe the following rules when driving along ruts in off-road terrain or on roads with loose gravel: Rvehicles with the AIRMATIC package:

select a raised vehicle level.

Ravoid high engine speeds. Rselect shift range 1. Rdrive slowly. Rwhere ruts are too deep, drive with the wheels of one side on the center grassy area, if possible.

Driving over obstacles ! Obstacles could damage the floor of the vehicle or components of the chassis. Ask passengers for guidance when driving over large obstacles. The passenger should always keep a safe distance from the vehicle when doing so in order to avoid injury as a result of unexpected vehicle movements. After driving off-road or over obstacles, check the vehicle for possible damage, especially to the underbody and the components of the chassis.

Rdrive quickly to overcome the rolling

resistance. Otherwise the vehicle's wheels could become stuck in loose ground. Rdrive in the tracks of other vehicles if

possible. Make sure that:

the tire ruts are not too deep. the sand is sufficiently firm. the ground clearance of the vehicle is sufficient.

Observe the following rules when driving over tree stumps, large stones and other obstacles: RRaise the vehicle level. RAvoid high engine speeds.

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189

RSelect shift range 1. RDrive very slowly. RDrive straight over the center of obstacles.

Traveling uphill Approach/departure angle G WARNING If you drive on a steep incline at an angle or turn when driving on an incline, the vehicle could slip sideways, tip and rollover. There is a risk of an accident. Always drive on a steep incline in the line of fall (straight up or down) and do not turn the vehicle.

Vehicles with AMG bodystyling

Vehicles without the ON&OFFROAD package Highway level Raised level Vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package Highway level Off-road level 1
Off-road level 2
Off-road level 3

: ;

20° 24°

20° 24°

20° 22° 24° 26°

20° 22° 24° 26°

RComply with the rules for off-road driving. RDo not drive at an angle on slopes, inclines or gradients, but instead follow the direct line of fall. The maximum gradient-climbing capability of your vehicle is 100%, which corresponds to an approach/departure angle of 45°. Note that the vehicle's gradient-climbing capability depends on the off-road conditions.

RBefore tackling steep downhill gradients,

select shift range 1.

RDrive slowly. RAvoid high engine speeds – drive at an

appropriate engine speed (maximum 3,000 rpm).

RWhen driving down an incline, make use of

the engine's braking effect. Observe the engine speed; do not overrev the engine. RCheck the brakes after driving off-road for

a long time.

i Hill start assist will aid you when pulling

away on a hill. For more information, see "Hill start assist" (Y page 162).

Do not switch to transmission position N when driving off-road. If you try to brake the vehicle using the service brake, you could

All vehicles (except vehicles with AMG bodystyling)

Vehicles without the ON&OFFROAD package Highway level Raised level Vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package Highway level Off-road level 1
Off-road level 2
Off-road level 3

: ;

25° 30°

20° 25°

25° 28° 30° 33°

20° 23° 25° 27°

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lose control of the vehicle. If the gradient is too steep for your vehicle, drive back down in reverse gear.

Maximum gradient-climbing capability On good road surfaces the maximum gradient-climbing capability of your vehicle is 100%, which corresponds to an approach/ departure angle of 45°. Note that the vehicle's gradient-climbing capability depends on the off-road conditions. Accelerate carefully and make sure that the wheels do not spin when driving on steep terrain. i If the load on the front axle is reduced

when pulling away on a steep uphill slope, the front wheels have a tendency to spin. 4ETS recognizes this and brakes the wheels accordingly. The rear wheel torque is increased, making it easier to drive off.

Hilltops When driving up an uphill gradient, slightly reduce pressure on the accelerator immediately before reaching the brow of the hill. Use the vehicle's own impetus to drive over the top of the hill. This style of driving prevents: Rthe vehicle from lifting off the ground on the

brow of a hill

Rthe vehicle from traveling too quickly down

the other side

Driving downhill RDrive slowly. RDo not drive at an angle down steep

inclines. Steer into the line of fall and drive with the front wheels aligned straight. Otherwise, the vehicle could slip sideways, tip and rollover.

RBefore tackling steep downhill gradients,

select shift range 1.

RActivate DSR. If this is not sufficient, brake gently. When doing so, make sure that the

vehicle is facing in the direction of the line of fall.

RCheck that the brakes are working normally

after a long downhill stretch.

i The special off-road ABS setting enables a precise, brief and repeated locking of the front wheels. This causes them to dig into loose earth. Be aware that the front wheels easily skid across the ground surface if completely braked and therefore lose their ability to steer.

Driving systems Cruise control Important safety notes G WARNING The cruise control is a convenience system designed to assist the driver during vehicle operation. The driver is and must always remain responsible for the vehicle's speed and for safe brake operation. Only use the cruise control if the road, traffic, and weather conditions make it advisable to travel at a constant speed. RThe use of the cruise control can be

dangerous on winding roads or in heavy traffic because conditions do not allow safe driving at a constant speed.

RThe use of the cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. Rapid changes in tire traction can result in wheel spin and loss of control.

RDeactivate the cruise control when driving

in fog.

The "Resume" function should only be operated if the driver is fully aware of the previously set speed and wishes to resume this particular preset speed. G WARNING The cruise control brakes automatically so that the set speed is not exceeded.

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191

General notes Cruise control maintains a constant road speed for you. It brakes automatically in order to avoid exceeding the set speed. On long and steep downhill gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden or towing a trailer, you must select shift range 1, 2 or 3 in good time. By doing so, you will make use of the braking effect of the engine, which relieves the load on the brake system and prevents the brakes from overheating and wearing too quickly. Use cruise control only if road and traffic conditions make it appropriate to maintain a steady speed for a prolonged period. You can store any road speed above 20 mph (30 km/h). i Cruise control should not be activated

during off-road driving.

Cruise control lever

Activation conditions To activate cruise control, all of the following activation conditions must be fulfilled: Rthe electric parking brake must be

released.

Ryou are driving faster than 20mph

(30 km/h).

RESP® must be active, but not intervening. Rthe transmission must be in position D. RDSR must be deactivated. Roff-road program 2 must be deactivated

(vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package).

Storing, maintaining and calling up a speed Storing and maintaining the speed

: To activate or increase speed ; To activate or reduce speed = To deactivate cruise control ? To activate at the current speed/last

stored speed

When you activate cruise control, the stored speed is shown in the multifunction display for five seconds. In the multifunction display, the segments between the stored speed and the maximum speed light up.

X Accelerate the vehicle to the desired

speed.

X Briefly press the cruise control lever

up : or down ;.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal. Cruise control is activated. The vehicle automatically maintains the stored speed. You can accept the current speed if you are driving faster than 20 mph (30km/h). i Cruise control may be unable to maintain the stored speed on uphill gradients. The stored speed is resumed when the gradient evens out. Cruise control maintains the stored speed on downhill gradients by automatically applying the brakes.

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Storing or calling up the speed G WARNING The set speed stored in memory should only be set again if prevailing road conditions and legal speed limits permit. Possible acceleration or deceleration differences arising from returning to the preset speed could cause an accident and/or serious injury to you and others.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you :.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal. The first time cruise control is activated, it stores the current speed or regulates the speed of the vehicle to the previously stored speed.

Setting a speed G WARNING Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has made the necessary adjustments. Increase or decrease the set vehicle speed to a value that the prevailing road conditions and legal speed limits permit. Otherwise, sudden and unexpected acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle could cause an accident and/ or serious injury to you and others.

X Press the cruise control lever up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed.

X To adjust the set speed in 1 mph

increments (1 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : or down ; to the pressure point. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up : or down ; the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

X To adjust the set speed in 5 mph increments (10 km/h increments): press the cruise control lever up : or down ; to beyond the pressure point. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up : or down ; the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

i Cruise control is not deactivated if you

depress the accelerator pedal. For example, if you accelerate briefly to overtake, cruise control adjusts the vehicle's speed to the last speed stored after you have finished overtaking.

Deactivating cruise control

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193

There are several ways to deactivate cruise control: X Briefly press the cruise control lever

forwards :.

or X Brake. Cruise control is automatically deactivated if: Ryou engage the electric parking brake. Ryou are driving at less than 20 mph

(30 km/h).

RESP® intervenes or you deactivate ESP®. Ryou activate DSR. Ryou shift the transmission to position N

while driving. If cruise control is deactivated, you will hear a warning tone. You will see the Cruise Control Off message in the multifunction display for approximately five seconds. i When you switch off the engine, the last

speed stored is cleared.

DISTRONIC PLUS Important safety notes G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS requires familiarity with its operational characteristics. We strongly recommend that you review the following information carefully before operating the system. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS is a convenience system. Its speed adjustment reduction capability is intended to make cruise control more effective and usable when traffic speeds vary. It is not however, intended to, nor does it, replace the need for extreme care. The responsibility for the vehicle's speed, distance to the preceding vehicle and, most importantly, brake operation to ensure a safe

stopping distance, always remains with the driver. The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take street and traffic conditions into account. Complex driving situations are not always fully recognized by the DISTRONIC PLUS. This could result in wrong or missing distance warnings. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS distance is not a substitute for the active intervention of the driver. It does not detect pedestrians or stationary objects, nor can it detect, recognize or predict the road's course or the movements of vehicles in front. DISTRONIC PLUS can only brake the vehicle using 40% of the vehicle's maximum available brake force. DISTRONIC PLUS may not detect narrow vehicles driving in front, e.g. motorcycles, or vehicles driving in the lane beyond the lane next to your vehicle, especially if the vehicles are not driving on the middle of their lane. The driver must always pay careful attention to the road, weather and traffic conditions. The driver must drive, steer and brake in a manner which will allow him to always have control of the vehicle. Sources of high-frequency radio waves, such as toll stations, speed-measuring radar, etc., can cause DISTRONIC PLUS to fail temporarily. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take road and traffic conditions into account. Only use the DISTRONIC PLUS if the road, weather and traffic conditions make it advisable to travel at a constant speed. G WARNING Use of the DISTRONIC PLUS can be dangerous on slippery roads. Rapid changes in tire traction can result in wheel spin and loss of control.

194 Driving systems

The DISTRONIC PLUS does not function in adverse sight and distance conditions. Do not use the DISTRONIC PLUS during conditions of fog, heavy rain, snow or sleet. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take weather conditions into account. Switch off the DISTRONIC PLUS or do not switch it on if: Rroads are slippery or covered with snow or

ice. The wheels could lose traction while braking or accelerating, and the vehicle could skid.

Rthe DISTRONIC PLUS system sensor covers

are dirty or visibility is diminished due to snow, rain or fog, for example. The distance control system functionality could be impaired.

Always pay attention to surrounding traffic conditions even while the DISTRONIC PLUS is switched on. Otherwise, you may not be able to recognize dangerous situations until it is too late. This could cause an accident in which you and/or others could be injured. G WARNING The "Resume" function should only be operated if the driver is fully aware of the previously set speed and wishes to resume this particular preset speed. G WARNING Your undivided attention to street and traffic conditions is necessary at all times whether DISTRONIC PLUS is active or not. The use of DISTRONIC PLUS can be dangerous on winding roads or in heavy traffic because conditions do not allow safe driving at a constant speed. DISTRONIC PLUS does not react to stationary objects on the road (for example, a vehicle stopped in traffic or an abandoned vehicle). DISTRONIC PLUS likewise does not react to oncoming vehicles.

Deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS: Rwhen changing to the right lane, if the

vehicles in the left lane are driving slower

Rwhen driving into a filter lane or an

expressway exit

Rin complex driving situations, for example

in construction sites on an expressway In these situations DISTRONIC PLUS will maintain the set speed if it is not deactivated. DISTRONIC PLUS is intended only for maintaining a set speed and a set distance from the objects moving in front of the vehicle. G WARNING An intermittent warning sounds and the distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster is illuminated if the DISTRONIC PLUS system calculates that the distance to the vehicle ahead and your vehicle's current speed indicate that the DISTRONIC PLUS will not be capable of slowing the vehicle sufficiently to maintain the preset following distance, which creates a danger of a collision. Immediately brake the vehicle to increase your distance to the preceding vehicle. The warning sound is intended as a final caution in which you should intercede with your own braking inputs to avoid a potentially dangerous situation. Do not wait for the operation of the warning signal to intercede with your own braking. This will result in potentially dangerous emergency braking which will not always result in an impact being avoided. Tailgating increases the risk of an accident. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS brakes your vehicle with a maximum deceleration of 13 ft/s2 (4 m/s2). This corresponds to approximately 40% of your vehicle's maximum braking force. To avoid a collision, you must apply the brakes yourself. DISTRONIC PLUS brakes the vehicle

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195

just enough to restore the preset speed or the preset distance to the vehicle in front. G WARNING If you do not receive visual or acoustic warning signals during a critical traffic situation, DISTRONIC PLUS has either not recognized the collision risk, has been deactivated or is malfunctioning. Remember, whether or not DISTRONIC PLUS is operating, it is ultimately always the drivers responsibility to apply the brakes in order to control the vehicle and avoid a collision. G WARNING The vehicle can be braked when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated. For this reason, deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS if the vehicle is to be set in motion by other means (e.g. in a car wash or by towing).

If you want DISTRONIC PLUS to assist you, the radar sensor system must be activated (Y page 279) and operational.

General notes DISTRONIC PLUS regulates the speed and automatically helps you maintain the distance to the vehicle detected in front. DISTRONIC PLUS brakes automatically so that the set speed is not exceeded. On long and steep downhill gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden or towing a trailer, you must select shift range 1, 2 or 3
in good time. By doing so, you will make use of the braking effect of the engine, which relieves the load on the brake system and prevents the brakes from overheating and wearing too quickly. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a slower-moving vehicle in front, your vehicle is braked in order to maintain the preset distance to the vehicle in front. If there is no vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS operates in the same way as cruise control in the speed range between 20 mph

(Canada: 30 km/h) and120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). If a vehicle is driving in front of you, it operates in the speed range between 0 mph (0 km/h) and 120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). Do not use DISTRONIC PLUS while driving on roads with steep gradients. As DISTRONIC PLUS transmits radar waves, it can resemble the radar detectors of the responsible authorities. You can refer to the relevant chapter in the Operator's Manual if questions are asked about this. i USA only:

This device has been approved by the FCC as a “Vehicular Radar System”. The radar sensor is intended for use in an automotive radar system only. Removal, tampering, or altering of the device will void any warranties, and is not permitted by the FCC. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

i Canada only: This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference, and 2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Removal, tampering, or altering of the device will void any warranties and is not permitted. Do not tamper with, alter, or use the device in any non-approved way. Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

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Cruise control lever

Activating while driving

: To activate or increase speed ; To activate or reduce speed = To deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS ? To activate at the current speed/last

stored speed

A To set the specified minimum distance

Activating DISTRONIC PLUS Activation conditions In order to activate DISTRONIC PLUS, the following conditions must be fulfilled: Rthe engine must be started. It may take up

to two minutes after pulling away before DISTRONIC PLUS is operational.

Rthe electric parking brake must be

released.

RESP® must be active, but not intervening. Rthe transmission must be in position D. Rthe driver's door must be closed when you shift from P to D or your seat belt must be fastened.

Rthe front-passenger door and rear doors

must be closed.

Roff-road program 2 must be deactivated

(vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package).

RDSR must be deactivated. Rthe vehicle must not skid.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ; or press it up : or down =. DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.

X To adjust the set speed in 1 mph

increments (1 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : to the pressure point for a higher speed or down = for a lower speed. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up or down, the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

or X To adjust the set speed in 5 mph

increments (10 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : past the pressure point for a higher speed or down = for a lower speed. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up or down, the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal. Your vehicle adapts its speed to that of the vehicle in front, but only up to the desired stored speed.

If the vehicle in front has been detected and is shown in the multifunction display, you can also activate DISTRONIC PLUS when driving at speeds below 20 mph (30km/h). If the vehicle in front is no longer detected and displayed, for example because it has changed lanes, DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated. You will hear a warning tone if this is the case.

i If you do not fully release the accelerator pedal, the DISTRONIC PLUS inactive message appears in the multifunction display. The set distance to a slower- moving vehicle in front will then not be maintained. You will be driving at the speed you determine by the position of the accelerator pedal.

Activating when driving towards a stationary vehicle X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ; or press it up : or down =. DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.

X To adjust the set speed in 1 mph

increments (1 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : to the pressure point for a higher speed or down = for a lower speed. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up or down, the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

or X To adjust the set speed in 5 mph

increments (10 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : past the pressure point for a higher speed or down = for a lower speed. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up or down, the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

If the vehicle in front of you is stationary, you can only activate DISTRONIC PLUS once your vehicle is stationary as well. i DISTRONIC PLUS can only be activated at under 20 mph (30km/h) if a vehicle in front has been detected. Therefore, the DISTRONIC PLUS distance display in the instrument cluster should be activated (Y page 274).

i You can use the cruise control lever to set

the stored speed and the control on the cruise control lever to set the specified minimum distance (Y page 199).

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Activating at the current speed/last stored speed G WARNING The set speed stored in memory should only be set again if prevailing road conditions and legal speed limits permit. Possible acceleration or deceleration differences arising from returning to the preset speed could cause an accident and/or serious injury to you and others.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you :.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal. DISTRONIC PLUS is activated. The first time it is activated, the current speed is stored. Otherwise, it sets the vehicle cruise speed to the previously stored value.

Driving with DISTRONIC PLUS Pulling away and driving G WARNING If you depress the brake, DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated unless your vehicle is stationary. DISTRONIC PLUS then no longer brakes your vehicle. In such cases, control the distance from vehicles travelling in front with the brake alone. You could otherwise cause an accident and thereby injure yourself and others. The driver remains fully responsible for the vehicle's distance from other vehicles, the speed being driven and for braking in good time.

198 Driving systems

If you change to the passing lane, DISTRONIC PLUS supports you when: Ryou are driving faster than 40mph

(60 km/h).

RDISTRONIC PLUS is maintaining the

distance to a vehicle in front.

Ryou switch on the appropriate turn signal. RDISTRONIC PLUS does not detect a danger

of collision.

If these conditions are fulfilled, your vehicle is accelerated. Acceleration will be interrupted if changing lanes takes too long or if the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front becomes too small. i When changing lanes, DISTRONIC PLUS

monitors the left lane on left-hand drive vehicles and the right lane on right-hand drive vehicles.

Stopping G WARNING Never get out of the vehicle when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated. DISTRONIC PLUS must also never be operated, activated or deactivated by a passenger or from outside the vehicle. DISTRONIC PLUS does not replace the electric parking brake and must not be used for parking. The DISTRONIC PLUS braking effect is canceled and the vehicle can start moving if: RDISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated using the

cruise control lever.

Ryou accelerate. Rthere is a malfunction in the system or an

interruption in the power supply, e.g. battery failure.

Rthe electrical system in the engine

compartment, the battery or the fuses are tampered with.

Rthe battery is disconnected. If you wish to leave the vehicle or park it, deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS and secure the vehicle against rolling away.

X If the vehicle in front pulls away: remove

your foot from the brake pedal.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ; or press it up : or down =.

or X Accelerate briefly.

Your vehicle pulls away and adapts its speed to that of the vehicle in front.

If there is no vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS operates in the same way as cruise control. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects that the vehicle in front has slowed down, it brakes your vehicle. In this way, the distance you have selected is maintained. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a faster-moving vehicle in front, it increases the driving speed. However, the vehicle is only accelerated up to the speed you have stored. Changing lanes G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS and Active Blind Spot Assist are only aids designed to assist driving. They do not relieve you of the responsibility of paying attention. The driver remains fully responsible for the vehicle's distance from other vehicles, the vehicle's speed and for braking in good time. Always pay attention to traffic conditions and your surroundings. Otherwise, you may fail to recognize dangers in time, cause an accident and injure yourself and others.

If DISTRONIC PLUS detects that the vehicle in front is stopping, it brakes your vehicle until it is stationary. Once your vehicle is stationary, it remains stationary and you do not need to depress the brake. After a time, the electric parking brake secures the vehicle and relieves the service brake. Depending on the specified minimum distance, your vehicle will come to a standstill at a sufficient distance behind the vehicle in front. The specified minimum distance is set using the control on the cruise control lever. The electric parking brake automatically secures the vehicle if DISTRONIC PLUS is activated and: Rthe driver's door is open and the driver's

seat belt is unfastened.

Rthe engine is switched off, unless it is automatically switched off by the ECO start/stop function.

Ra system malfunction occurs. Rthe power supply is not sufficient. On steep uphill or downhill inclines or if there is a malfunction, the transmission may also automatically be shifted into position P.

Setting a speed G WARNING Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has made the necessary adjustments. Increase or decrease the set vehicle speed to a value that the prevailing road conditions and legal speed limits permit. Otherwise, sudden and unexpected acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle could cause an accident and/ or serious injury to you and others.

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X Press the cruise control lever up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed.

X To adjust the set speed in 1 mph

increments (1 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : or down ; to the pressure point. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up : or down ; the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

X To adjust the set speed in 5 mph increments (10 km/h increments): press the cruise control lever up : or down ; to beyond the pressure point. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up : or down ;, the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

i DISTRONIC PLUS is not deactivated if you

depress the accelerator pedal. If you accelerate to overtake, DISTRONIC PLUS adjusts the vehicle's speed to the last speed stored after you have finished overtaking.

Setting the specified minimum distance G WARNING It is up to the driver to exercise discretion to select the appropriate setting given road conditions, traffic, driver's preferred driving style and applicable laws and driving recommendations for safe following distance.

200 Driving systems

You can set the specified minimum distance for DISTRONIC PLUS by varying the time span between one and two seconds. With this function, you can set the minimum distance that DISTRONIC PLUS keeps to the vehicle in front, dependent on vehicle speed. You can see this distance in the multifunction display (Y page 201). X To increase: turn control ; in direction

=. DISTRONIC PLUS then maintains a greater distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front.

X To decrease: turn control ; in

direction :. DISTRONIC PLUS then maintains a shorter distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front.

i Make sure that you maintain a sufficiently

safe distance from the vehicle in front. Adjust the distance to the vehicle in front if necessary.

Deactivating DISTRONIC PLUS G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated and releases the brakes if the vehicle is slowed down to a speed below 20 mph (30km/h) by the system, provided that DISTRONIC PLUS does not detect a vehicle directly in front. At this point, the driver must apply the brakes in order to slow down further and bring the vehicle to a standstill.

There are several ways to deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS: X Briefly press the cruise control lever

forwards :.

or X Brake, unless the vehicle is stationary. When you deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS, you will see the DISTRONIC PLUS off message in the multifunction display for approximately five seconds. i The last speed stored remains stored until

you switch off the engine.

i DISTRONIC PLUS is not deactivated if you

depress the accelerator pedal. If you accelerate to overtake, DISTRONIC PLUS adjusts the vehicle's speed to the last speed stored after you have finished overtaking.

DISTRONIC PLUS is automatically deactivated if: Ryou engage the electric parking brake or if

the vehicle is automatically secured with the electric parking brake.

Ryou are driving slower than 15 mph

(25 km/h) and there is no vehicle in front, or if the vehicle in front is no longer detected.

RESP® intervenes or you deactivate ESP®. Rthe transmission is in the P, R or N position. Ryou switch off the radar sensor system

(Y page 279).

Ryou pull the cruise control lever towards you in order to pull away and the front-

passenger door or one of the rear doors is open.

Ryou activate DSR. Ryou activate off-road program 2 on vehicles

with the ON&OFFROAD package.

Rthe vehicle has skidded. If DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated, you will hear a warning tone. You will see the DISTRONIC PLUS off message in the multifunction display for approximately five seconds.

Displays in the instrument cluster Displays in the speedometer

Example: DISTRONIC PLUS displays in the speedometer When DISTRONIC PLUS is activated, one or two segments ; in the set speed range light up. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a vehicle in front, segments ; between speed of the vehicle in front : and stored speed = light up. i For design reasons, the speed displayed in the speedometer may differ slightly from the speed set for DISTRONIC PLUS.

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Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated

Distance display when DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated : Vehicle in front, if detected ; Distance indicator, current distance to

the vehicle in front

= Specified minimum distance to the

vehicle in front; adjustable

? Own vehicle In the Assistance menu (Y page 274) of the on-board computer, you can select the distance display. X Select the Distance display function using the on-board computer .

In the Assistance menu of the on-board computer, you can also activate or deactivate PRE-SAFE® Brake (Y page 274).

vehicle. Your vehicle could then accelerate to the previously selected speed.

The DISTRONIC PLUS regulates only the distance between your vehicle and those directly ahead of it. It may not register stationary objects in the road, e.g.: Ra stopped vehicle in a traffic jam Ra disabled vehicle Ran oncoming vehicle The driver must always be alert, observe all traffic and intercede as required by means of steering or braking the vehicle. G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS should not be used in snowy or icy road conditions.

Pay particular attention in the following traffic situations: RCornering, going into and coming out of a

bend

RVehicles traveling on a different line ROther vehicles changing lanes RNarrow vehicles RObstructions and stationary vehicles RCrossing vehicles In such situations, brake if necessary. DISTRONIC PLUS is then deactivated. The following contains descriptions of certain road and traffic conditions in which you must be particularly attentive. In such situations, brake if necessary. DISTRONIC PLUS is then deactivated.

202 Driving systems

Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated

Distance display with DISTRONIC PLUS activated in the multifunction display : DISTRONIC PLUS activated ; Own vehicle = Specified minimum distance to the

vehicle in front; adjustable ? Vehicle in front, if detected In the Assistance menu (Y page 274)of the on-board computer, you can select the distance display. X Select the Distance display function using the on-board computer .

You will see the stored speed for about five seconds when you activate DISTRONIC PLUS.

Tips for driving with DISTRONIC PLUS Important safety notes G WARNING The DISTRONIC PLUS works to maintain the speed selected by the driver unless a moving obstacle proceeding directly ahead of it in the same travel direction is detected (e.g. following another vehicle ahead of you at your set distance). This means that: RYour vehicle can pass another vehicle after

you have changed lanes.

RWhile in a sharp turn or if the preceding vehicle is in a sharp turn, the DISTRONIC PLUS could lose sight of the preceding

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203

Cornering, going into and coming out of a bend

DISTRONIC PLUS has not detected the vehicle cutting in yet. The distance to this vehicle will be too short. Narrow vehicles

The ability of DISTRONIC PLUS to detect vehicles when cornering is limited. Your vehicle may brake unexpectedly or late. Vehicles traveling on a different line

DISTRONIC PLUS has not yet detected the vehicle in front on the edge of the road, because of its narrow width. The distance to the vehicle in front will be too short. Obstructions and stationary vehicles

DISTRONIC PLUS may not detect vehicles traveling on a different line. The distance to the vehicle in front will be too short. Other vehicles changing lanes

DISTRONIC PLUS does not brake for obstacles or stationary vehicles. If, for example, the detected vehicle turns a corner and reveals an obstacle or stationary vehicle, DISTRONIC PLUS will not brake for these.

204 Driving systems

Crossing vehicles

DISTRONIC PLUS may mistakenly detect vehicles that are crossing your lane. Activating DISTRONIC PLUS at traffic lights with crossing traffic, for example, could cause your vehicle to pull away unintentionally.

Level control (vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package) Important safety notes G WARNING Make sure that nobody is in the vicinity of the wheel arch or the underbody when changing the vehicle level. You could otherwise trap yourself or others. G WARNING Always select as low a vehicle level as possible. If the vehicle level is high, the vehicle center of gravity shifts upwards. This increases the risk of the vehicle tipping over. Adapt your driving style to suit the vehicle level. ESP® cannot reduce the risk of an accident if you drive too fast. ESP® cannot override the laws of physics.

! When driving on extremely rough terrain,

select a high vehicle level in good time. Make sure there is always sufficient ground clearance. You will otherwise damage the vehicle.

Level control adapts the vehicle level automatically to the current operating and

driving situation. This results in reduced fuel consumption and improved handling. Make changes to the vehicle level while the vehicle is in motion. This enables the vehicle to adjust to the new level as quickly as possible. The vehicle level may change visibly if you park the vehicle and the outside temperature changes. If the temperature drops, the vehicle level is lower; with an increase in temperature, the vehicle level rises. If you unlock the vehicle or open a door, the vehicle begins to compensate for load discrepancies while still parked. However, for significant level changes, such as after the vehicle has been stationary for a long period, the engine must be on. For safety reasons, the vehicle is only lowered when the doors are closed. Lowering is interrupted if a door is opened, and it continues once the door has been closed. For information on driving off-road, see (Y page 186).

Basic settings The extent to which the vehicle is raised or lowered depends on the basic setting selected. Select: RHighway/high-speed level for driving on

normal roads

ROff-road level 1 for driving on easily

negotiable off-road terrain

ROff-road level 2 for driving on normal off-

road terrain

ROff-road level 3 for freeing the vehicle in particularly rough terrain at low speeds only

The individual vehicle levels differ from highway level as follows: R+/-0 in (+/- 0 mm) at highway level RHigh-speed level: –0.6 in (–15 mm) ROff-road level 1: +1.2 in (+30 mm)