2013 Mercedes-benz GL Class Owners Manual

of the vehicle

: Symbol for the split screen setting with

top view and front camera image ; Yellow guide line at a distance of

approximately 13 ft (4.0m) from the front of the vehicle

= Yellow guide line for the vehicle width

including the exterior mirrors, for current steering wheel angle (dynamic)

= Yellow guide line for the vehicle width

including the exterior mirrors, for current steering wheel angle (dynamic)

? Yellow lane marking tires at current

steering wheel angle (dynamic)

? Yellow lane marking tires at current

steering wheel angle (dynamic)

A Yellow guide line at a distance of

approximately 3 ft (1.0m) from the front of the vehicle

B Red guide line at a distance of

approximately 12 in (0.30 m) from the front of the vehicle

A Yellow guide line at a distance of

approximately 3 ft (1.0 m) from the rear of the vehicle

B Vehicle center axle (marker assistance) C Red guide line at a distance of

approximately 12 in (0.30 m) from the rear of the vehicle

D Bumper The guide lines are shown when the transmission is in position R. The distance specifications only apply to objects that are at ground level.

top view and enlarged rear view

Top view with trailer view

Driving systems

229

: Symbol for the trailer view setting ; Trailer drawbar marker assistant = Red guide line at a distance of

approximately 12 in (0.30 m) from the ball coupling

Display with the PARKTRONIC display

: Symbol for the split screen setting with

top view and rear view camera image enlarged

; Red guide line at a distance of

approximately 12 in (0.30 m) from the rear of the vehicle

This view assists you in estimating the distance to the vehicle behind you. i This setting can also be selected as an

enlarged front view.

Top view with picture from the mirror camera

: Symbol for the top view and forward-

facing mirror camera setting

; Yellow guide line for the vehicle width

including the exterior mirrors (right side of vehicle)

= Yellow guide line for the vehicle width

including the exterior mirrors (left side of vehicle)

Example: full screen mode with PARKTRONIC display : Symbol for the full screen setting with rear

view camera image

If the vehicle is equipped with PARKTRONIC and the function is active (Y page 214), warning displays ; in the COMAND display are also active or light up accordingly. PARKTRONIC appears: Rin split screen view as red or yellow

brackets around the vehicle icon in the top view, or

Rin the full screen view, on the right-hand

side at the bottom as red or yellow brackets around the vehicle icon.

230 Driving systems

i The full screen display can also be

selected as front view.

Exiting 360° camera display mode When the function is active and the vehicle exceeds the speed of 19 mph (30 km/h), the function is deactivated. The COMAND display switches back to the previously selected view. You can also switch the display by selecting the & symbol in the display and pressing the COMAND controller W.

ATTENTION ASSIST Important safety notes G WARNING The ATTENTION ASSIST is only an aid to the driver. It might not recognize fatigue or increasing inattentiveness in time or fail to recognize them at all. The system cannot substitute a rested and attentive driver. Fatigue can cause you to recognize dangers too late, to misjudge potential dangers, or to react slower. Therefore, make sure to be rested before and during your trip. Take rests early enough and regularly, especially during long trips. Failure to do so could cause you to recognize dangers too late which could result in an accident and serious injury to you and/ or others.

ATTENTION ASSIST helps you during long, monotonous journeys such as on freeways and interstate highways. It is active in the range between 50 mph (80 km/h) and 112 mph (180 km/h). If ATTENTION ASSIST detects typical indicators of fatigue or increasing lapses in concentration on the part of the driver, it suggests you take a break.

ATTENTION ASSIST assesses your level of fatigue or lapses in concentration by taking the following criteria into account: Ryour personal driving style, e.g. steering

characteristics

Rdriving conditions, e.g. time, driving time The functionality of ATTENTION ASSIST is restricted and warnings may be delayed or not occur at all: Rif the road condition is poor, e.g. if the

surface is uneven or if there are potholes

Rif there is a strong side wind Rif you have adopted a sporty driving style with high cornering speeds or high rates of acceleration

Rif you are predominantly driving slower than 50 mph (80 km/h) or faster than 112 mph (180 km/h)

Rif you are currently using COMAND or

making a telephone call with it

Rif the time has been set incorrectly Rin active driving situations, such as when you change lanes or change your speed

Warning and display messages in the multifunction display

X Activate ATTENTION ASSIST using the on-

board computer (Y page 275). Symbol : appears in the multifunction display. X The Attention Assist: Take a Break! message appears in the multifunction display. If necessary, take a break.

X Press the a or % button to confirm

the message.

Driving systems

231

If ATTENTION ASSIST is active, you will be warned no sooner than 20 minutes after your journey has begun. In addition to the message shown in the multifunction display, you will then hear an intermittent warning tone twice. On long journeys, take regular breaks in good time to allow yourself to rest properly. If you do not take a break and ATTENTION ASSIST still detects increasing lapses in concentration, you will be warned again after 15 minutes at the earliest. ATTENTION ASSIST is reset when you continue your journey and starts assessing your tiredness again if: Ryou switch off the engine. Ryou take off your seat belt and open the

driver's door, e.g. for a change of drivers or to take a break.

Night View Assist Plus Important safety notes G WARNING Night View Assist Plus is only an aid designed to assist driving. It is not a substitute for attentive driving. Do not rely solely on the Night View Assist Plus display. Continue to look through the windshield. You are responsible for safety and must drive in accordance with traffic conditions. You could otherwise put yourself and others in danger. The system may be impaired or unavailable if: Rthere is poor visibility, e.g. due to snow,

rain, fog or heavy spray.

Rthe windshield is dirty, fogged up or

covered, for instance by a sticker, in the vicinity of the camera.

Ryou are driving on bends, uphill gradients

or downhill gradients. G WARNING Night View Assist Plus is only an aid designed to assist driving. It is not a substitute for attentive driving. Do not rely solely on the

Night View Assist Plus display. Continue to look through the windshield. You are responsible for safety and must drive in accordance with traffic conditions. You could otherwise put yourself and others in danger. The system may be impaired or unavailable if: Rthere is poor visibility, e.g. due to snow,

rain, fog or heavy spray.

Rthe windshield is dirty, fogged up or

covered, for instance by a sticker, in the vicinity of the camera.

Ryou are driving on bends, uphill gradients

or downhill gradients.

General notes

In addition to the illumination provided by the normal headlamps, Night View Assist Plus uses infrared light to illuminate the road. Night View Assist Plus camera : picks up the infrared light and displays a monochrome image in COMAND. The image displayed in COMAND corresponds to a road lit up by high- beam headlamps. This enables you to see the road's course and any obstacles in good time. If pedestrian recognition is activated, pedestrians recognized by the system are highlighted in the Night View Assist Plus display. Light from the headlamps of oncoming vehicles does not affect the Night View Assist Plus display in the multifunction display. This is also the case if you cant switch on the high- beam headlamps due to oncoming traffic.

232 Driving systems

i Infrared light is not visible to the human

eye and therefore does not glare. Night View Assist Plus can therefore remain switched on even if there is oncoming traffic.

Switching on Night View Assist Plus Activation conditions You can only activate Night View Assist Plus if: Rthe SmartKey is in position 2 in the ignition

lock.

Rit is dark. Rthe light switch is in the à or L

position.

Rreverse gear has not been engaged. Switching on Night View Assist Plus

Pedestrian recognition G WARNING Pedestrian recognition may be impaired or inoperative if: Rpedestrians are partially or entirely

obscured by objects, e.g. parked vehicles. Rthe silhouette of the pedestrian in the Night

View Assist Plus display is incomplete or interrupted, e.g. by powerful light reflections.

Rpedestrians do not contrast with the

surroundings.

Rpedestrians are not standing upright, for example, if they are sitting, crouching or lying down.

X Make sure that COMAND is switched on. X Press button :.

The Night View Assist Plus display appears in the COMAND display.

You can read about how to adjust the brightness of the COMAND display in the COMAND operating instructions. i The infrared headlamps only switch on

when the vehicle is being driven at speeds of approximately 6 mph (10 km/h). This means that you do not have the full visual range while the vehicle is stationary and cannot check whether Night View Assist Plus is working.

: Night View Assist Plus display ; Pedestrian recognized = Framing ? Symbol for active pedestrian recognition i Animals are not recognized by pedestrian

recognition.

Night View Assist Plus is able to recognize pedestrians by typical characteristics, e.g. a silhouette in the shape of a person. Pedestrian recognition is then switched on automatically if: RNight View Assist Plus is activated. Ryou exceed a speed of approximately

6 mph (10 km/h).

Rthe surroundings are dark, e.g. when driving outside built-up areas without street lighting.

Driving systems

233

If pedestrian recognition is active, symbol ? appears. If a pedestrian is now recognized, they are framed = and thereby highlighted. If the pedestrian recognition system has brought a pedestrian to your attention, look through the windshield to evaluate the situation. The actual distance to objects and pedestrians cannot be gauged accurately by looking at a screen. It may be the case that objects are highlighted as well as pedestrians.

Fogged up or dirty windshield G WARNING Always remember that you must concentrate primarily on driving the vehicle. A driver's attention to the road must always be his/her primary focus when driving. For your safety and the safety of others: stop the vehicle before attempting to clean fogged up windows or the windshield area in front of the Night View Assist Plus camera. Please remember that when your vehicle is traveling at a speed of only 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h) it covers a distance of 44 ft (approximately 14 m) per second.

If the windshield in front of the camera is fogged up or dirty on the inside or outside, the Night View Assist Plus display is affected. X To defrost: check the automatic air

conditioning settings (Y page 151) and fold down the camera cover (Y page 371).

X To defrost the inside of the windshield: fold down the camera cover (Y page 371) and clean the windshield (Y page 368).

234 Driving systems

Problems with Night View Assist Plus

Problem The picture quality of Night View Assist Plus has deteriorated.

Possible causes/consequences and M Solutions The windshield wipers are smearing the windshield. X Replace the wiper blades (Y page 135). The windshield is smeared after the vehicle has been cleaned in a car wash. X Clean the windshield (Y page 368). There is windshield chip damage in the camera's field of vision. X Replace the windshield. The windshield is fogged up on the inside. X Defrost the windshield (Y page 151). The windshield is iced up. X De-ice the windshield (Y page 150). There is dirt on the inside of the windshield. X Clean the inside of the windshield (Y page 368).

Lane Tracking package General notes The Lane Tracking package consists of Blind Spot Assist (Y page 234) and Lane Keeping Assist (Y page 237).

rain or mist, for example. In this case, vehicles are detected late or not at all. 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.

Blind Spot Assist Important safety notes G WARNING Blind Spot Assist is only an aid designed to assist driving. It may fail to detect some vehicles and is no substitute for attentive driving. Blind Spot Assist cannot detect road and traffic conditions. It may fail to detect narrow vehicles, such as motorcycles or bicycles, or may only detect them too late. Monitoring may be affected by dirty sensors, strong spray or poor visibility caused by snow,

General notes 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.

Blind Spot Assist uses a radar sensor system to monitor the areas on both sides of your

Driving systems

235

vehicle. It supports you from a speed of approximately 20 mph (30 km/h). A warning display in the exterior mirrors draws your attention to vehicles detected in the monitored area. If you then switch on the corresponding turn signal to change lane, you will also receive an optical and audible collision warning. Blind Spot Assist uses sensors in the rear bumper for monitoring purposes. For Blind Spot Assist to assist you when driving, the radar sensor system must be activated (Y page 279) and operational. Monitoring range of the sensors G WARNING Blind Spot Assist monitors certain areas in the immediate vicinity of your vehicle. Vehicles that approach and drive past at high speeds are not detected. There is no display and no warning. If the lanes are very wide, it may not be possible to monitor the complete width of the neighboring lane. For this reason, vehicles in the next lane may not be detected, especially if they are driving in a staggered formation. This may be the case if vehicles are driving at that edge of their lane which is furthest away from your vehicle. 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.

Blind Spot Assist monitors the area up to 10 ft (3m) behind your vehicle and directly next to your vehicle, as shown in the diagram. If the lanes are narrow, vehicles driving in the lane beyond the lane next to your vehicle may be indicated, especially if the vehicles are not driving in the middle of their lane. This may be the case if there are vehicles driving at the inner edge of their lanes. Due to the nature of the system: Rwarnings may be issued in error when

driving close to crash barriers or similar solid lane borders.

Rwarnings may be interrupted when driving

alongside long vehicles, for example trucks, for a prolonged time.

The two radar sensors for Blind Spot Assist are integrated into the sides of the rear bumper. Make sure that the bumper is free from dirt, ice or slush around the sensors. The sensors must not be covered, for example by cycle racks or overhanging loads. Following a severe impact or in the event of damage to the bumpers, have the function of the sensors checked at a qualified specialist workshop. Blind Spot Assist may otherwise not work properly.

236 Driving systems

Indicator and warning display

Switching on Blind Spot Assist

: Yellow indicator lamp/red warning lamp When Blind Spot Assist is activated, indicator lamp : in the exterior mirrors lights up yellow at speeds of up to 20 mph (30 km/h). At speeds above 20 mph (30 km/h) the indicator lamp goes out and Blind Spot Assist is operational. If a vehicle is detected within the monitoring range of Blind Spot Assist at speeds above 20 mph (30km/h), warning lamp : on the corresponding side lights up red. This warning is always emitted when a vehicle enters the blind spot monitoring range from behind or from the side. When you overtake a vehicle, the warning only occurs if the difference in speed is less than 7 mph (12km/h). The yellow indicator lamp goes out if reverse gear is engaged. In this event, Blind Spot Assist is no longer active. The brightness of the indicator/warning lamps is adjusted automatically according to the ambient light. Collision warning If a vehicle is detected in the monitoring range of Blind Spot Assist and you switch on the corresponding turn signal, a double warning tone sounds. Red warning lamp : flashes. If the turn signal remains on, detected vehicles are indicated by the flashing of red warning lamp :. There are no further warning tones.

X Make sure that the radar sensor system

(Y page 279) and Blind Spot Assist (Y page 275) are activated in the on-board computer.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock. Warning lamps : in the exterior mirrors light up red for approximately 1.5 seconds and then turn yellow.

Towing a trailer When you attach a trailer, make sure you have correctly established the electrical connection. This can be accomplished by checking the trailer lighting. In this event, Blind Spot Assist is deactivated. The indicator lamp in the exterior mirrors lights up yellow, and the Blind Spot Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual message appears in the multifunction display. i You can deactivate the indicator lamps in

the exterior mirrors. To do so, switch off Blind Spot Assist when: Rthe SmartKey is in position 2 in the

ignition lock.

Rthe engine is not running. Rthe electrical connection to the trailer

has been established.

Lane Keeping Assist Important safety notes G WARNING Lane Keeping Assist does not keep your vehicle in its lane. It is only an aid and may detect the lane markings on the road incorrectly or not at all. The system may be impaired or may not function if: Rthere is poor visibility, e.g. due to

insufficient illumination of the road, or due to snow, rain, fog or spray.

Rthere is glare, e.g. from oncoming traffic, the sun, or reflection from other vehicles.

Rthe windshield is dirty, fogged up or

covered, for instance by a sticker, in the vicinity of the camera.

Rseveral or no lane markings for a single lane

are present.

Rthe lane markings are worn away, dark or

covered up, e.g. by dirt or snow.

Rthe distance to the vehicle in front is too

small and the lane markings thus cannot be detected.

Rthe lane markings on the road are unclear,

e.g. near roadworks.

Rthe lane markings change quickly, e.g. lanes branch off, cross one another or merge.

Rthe road is narrow and winding. Lane Keeping Assist cannot detect road and traffic conditions. It is not a substitute for attentive driving. You are responsible for the vehicle's speed, braking in good time, and steering correctly. Always adapt your driving style to suit the prevailing road and weather conditions. 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.

Driving systems

237

General notes

: Lane Keeping Assist camera Lane Keeping Assist monitors the area in front of your vehicle by means of a camera at the top of the windshield. Lane Keeping Assist detects lane markings on the road and warns you before you leave your lane unintentionally. If you select km on the on-board computer in the Display Unit Speed-/Odometer function (Y page 276), Lane Keeping Assist is active starting at a speed of 60 km/h. If the miles display unit is selected, the assistance range begins at 40 mph. A warning may be given if a front wheel passes over a lane marking. It will warn you by means of intermittent vibration in the steering wheel for up to 1.5 seconds. Switching on Lane Keeping Assist

X Switch on Active Lane Keeping Assist using the on-board computer; to do so, select Standard or Adaptive(Y page 275). Symbol : appears in the multifunction display. If you drive at speeds above 40 mph (60 km/h) and lane markings are detected,

238 Driving systems

symbol : is shown in green. Lane Keeping Assist is ready for use.

Standard If Standard is selected, no warning vibration occurs if: Ryou switch on the turn signals. In this event, the warnings are suppressed for a certain period of time.

Ra driving safety system intervenes, such as

ABS, BAS or ESP®. Adaptive If Adaptive is selected, no warning vibration occurs if: Ryou switch on the turn signals. In this event, the warnings are suppressed for a certain period of time.

Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g.

ABS, BAS or ESP®.

Ryou accelerate hard, e.g. kickdown. Ryou brake hard. Ryou steer actively, e.g. swerve to avoid an

obstacle or change lane quickly.

Ryou cut the corner on a sharp bend. In order that you are warned only when necessary and in good time if you cross the lane marking, the system recognizes certain conditions and warns you accordingly. The warning vibration occurs earlier if: Ryou approach the outer lane marking on a

bend.

Rthe road has very wide lanes, e.g. a

freeway.

Rthe system recognizes solid lane markings. The warning vibration occurs later if: Rthe road has narrow lanes. Ryou cut the corner on a bend.

Active Driving Assistance package General notes The Active Driving Assistance package consists of DISTRONIC PLUS (Y page 193), Active Blind Spot Assist (Y page 239) and Active Lane Keeping Assist (Y page 243).

Active Blind Spot Assist Important safety notes G WARNING Active Blind Spot Assist is only an aid, and may detect vehicles/obstacles incorrectly or not at all. The system may be impaired or may not function if: Rthere is poor visibility, e.g. due to snow,

rain, fog or spray.

Rthe rear and/or front sensors are dirty. Active Blind Spot Assist may not detect narrow vehicles, such as motorcycles or bicycles, or may only detect them too late. It cannot detect vehicles that are overtaken at a small distance and then enter the blind spot area. Active Blind Spot Assist cannot detect road and traffic conditions. It is not a substitute for attentive driving. You are responsible for the vehicle's speed, braking in good time, and steering correctly. Always adapt your driving style to suit the prevailing road and weather conditions. 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.

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

Driving systems

239

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.

For Active Blind Spot Assist to assist you when driving, the radar sensor system must be activated (Y page 279) and operational. General notes Active Blind Spot Assist uses a radar sensor system to monitor the side areas of your vehicle which are in back of the driver. A warning display in the exterior mirrors draws your attention to vehicles detected in the monitored area. If you then switch on the corresponding turn signal to change lane, you will also receive an optical and audible warning. If a risk of lateral collision is detected, corrective braking may help you avoid a collision. To support the course- correcting brake application, Active Blind Spot Assist uses the forward-facing radar sensor system. The free space in the direction of travel is then evaluated. Active Blind Spot Assist supports you from a speed of approximately 20 mph (30 km/h).

Monitoring area G WARNING Active Blind Spot Assist monitors certain areas in the immediate vicinity of your vehicle. Vehicles that approach and drive past at high speeds are not detected. No visual nor audible warnings are emitted and the system does not brake the vehicle to correct your course. If the lanes are very wide, it may not be possible to monitor the complete width of the neighboring lane. For this reason, vehicles in the next lane may not be detected, especially if they are driving in a staggered formation. This may be the case if vehicles are driving at that edge of their lane which is furthest away from your vehicle. 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.

Active Blind Spot Assist monitors the area up to 10 ft (3.0 m) behind your vehicle and directly next to your vehicle, as shown in the diagram. For this purpose, Active Blind Spot Assist uses radar sensors in the rear bumper. If the lanes are narrow, vehicles driving in the lane beyond the lane next to your vehicle may be indicated, especially if the vehicles are not driving in the middle of their lane. This may

240 Driving systems

be the case if there are vehicles at the inner edge of your lane. Due to the nature of the system: Rwarnings may be issued in error when

driving close to crash barriers or similar solid lane borders.

Rwarnings may be interrupted when driving

alongside particularly long vehicles, for example trucks, for a prolonged time.

The Active Blind Spot Assist radar sensors are integrated into the front and rear bumpers and behind a cover in the radiator grill. Make sure that the bumpers and the cover in the radiator grill are free of dirt, ice or slush. The rear sensors must not be covered, for example by cycle racks or overhanging cargo. Following a severe impact or in the event of damage to the bumpers, have the function of the radar sensors checked at a qualified specialist workshop. Active Blind Spot Assist may otherwise no longer work properly. Indicator and warning display G WARNING Active Blind Spot Assist is not active at speeds below 20 mph (30km/h). The indicator lamps in the exterior mirrors are yellow. Vehicles in the monitoring range are then not indicated. 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.

: Yellow indicator lamp/red warning lamp

When Active Blind Spot Assist is activated, indicator lamp : in the exterior mirrors lights up yellow at speeds of up to 20 mph (30 km/h). At speeds above 20 mph (30 km/h), the indicator lamp goes out and Active Blind Spot Assist is operational. If a vehicle is detected within the monitoring range of Blind Spot Assist at speeds above 20 mph (30km/h), warning lamp : on the corresponding side lights up red. This warning is always emitted when a vehicle enters the blind spot monitoring range from behind or from the side. When you overtake a vehicle, the warning only occurs if the difference in speed is less than 7 mph (12km/h). The yellow indicator lamp goes out if reverse gear is engaged. In this event, Active Blind Spot Assist is no longer active. The brightness of the indicator/warning lamps is adjusted automatically according to the ambient light. Visual and audible collision warnings

When you switch on the turn signals to change lanes and a vehicle is detected in the side monitoring range, you receive a visual and acoustic collision warning. You then hear a double warning tone and red warning lamp : flashes. If the turn signal remains on, detected vehicles are indicated by the flashing of red warning lamp :. There are no further warning tones.

Driving systems

241

Course-correcting brake application G WARNING Active Blind Spot Assist is only an aid designed to assist driving. It is not a substitute for attentive driving. In some cases, the course-correcting brake application is not sufficient to avoid a collision. In such a case, you must steer, brake or accelerate. In very rare cases, the system may erroneously detect a danger of collision in the area of crash barriers or similar lane borders and apply the brakes. Active Blind Spot Assist does not detect all traffic situations and road users. Always make sure that there is sufficient distance on the side for other traffic or obstacles. An inappropriate brake application may be interrupted at any time if you steer slightly in the opposite direction or accelerate. You are responsible for driving at appropriate speeds, braking in good time, and steering correctly. Always adapt your driving style to suit the prevailing road and weather conditions. 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 Active Blind Spot Assist detects a risk of a lateral collision in the monitoring range, a course-correcting brake application is carried out. This is meant to assist you in avoiding a collision. If a course-correcting brake application occurs, red warning lamp : flashes in the exterior mirror and a dual warning tone sounds. In addition, display ; appears in the multifunction display. The course-correcting brake application is available in the speed range between 20 mph (30 km/h) and120 mph (200km/h). Either no braking application, or a course- correcting brake application adapted to the driving situation occurs, if: Rthere are vehicles or obstacles, e.g. crash

barriers, located on both sides of your vehicle.

Ra vehicle approaches you too closely at the

side.

Ryou have adopted a sporty driving style with

high cornering speeds.

Ryou clearly brake or accelerate.

242 Driving systems

Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g.

ESP® or PRE-SAFE® Brake.

RESP® is switched off. Rthe off-road program is activated (vehicles

without the ON&OFFROAD package). Roff-road program 1 or 2 is activated

(vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package). Rthe LOW RANGE off-road gear is activated (vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package). Ra loss of tire pressure or a defective tire is

detected.

Switching on Active Blind Spot Assist

X Make sure that the radar sensor system (Y page 279) and Active Blind Spot Assist (Y page 275) are activated in the on-board computer.

X Turn the SmartKey to position 2 in the

ignition lock. Warning lamps : light up red in the exterior mirrors for approximately 1.5seconds and then turn yellow.

Towing a trailer When you attach a trailer, make sure you have correctly established the electrical connection. This can be accomplished by checking the trailer lighting. Active Blind Spot Assist is then deactivated. The indicator lamp lights up yellow in the exterior mirrors and the Active Blind Spot Assist Currently Unavailable See Operator's Manual message appears in the multifunction display.

Active Lane Keeping Assist Important safety notes G WARNING Active Lane Keeping Assist does not keep your vehicle in its lane. It is only an aid and may detect the lane markings on the road incorrectly or not at all. The system may be impaired or may not function if: Rseveral or no lane markings for a single lane

are present.

Rthere is poor visibility, e.g. due to

insufficient illumination of the road, or due to snow, rain, fog or spray.

Rthere is glare, e.g. from oncoming traffic, the sun, or reflection from other vehicles.

Rthe windshield is dirty, fogged up or

covered, for instance by a sticker, in the vicinity of the camera.

Rthe lane markings are worn away, dark or

covered up, e.g. by dirt or snow.

Rthe distance to the vehicle in front is too

small and the lane markings thus cannot be detected.

Rthe lane markings on the road are unclear,

e.g. near roadworks.

Rthe lane markings change quickly, e.g. lanes branch off, cross one another or merge.

Rthe road is narrow and winding. Active Lane Keeping Assist cannot detect road and traffic conditions. It is not a substitute for attentive driving. You are responsible for the vehicle's speed, braking in good time, and steering correctly. Always adapt your driving style to suit the prevailing road and weather conditions. 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.

Driving systems

243

The warning vibration occurs later if: Rthe road has narrow lanes. Ryou cut the corner on a bend. Lane-correcting brake application G WARNING Active Lane Keeping Assist does not keep your vehicle in its lane. It is only an aid designed to assist driving. It is not a substitute for attentive driving. In some cases, the lane- correcting brake application is not sufficient to bring your vehicle back to the original lane. In such cases, you must steer the vehicle yourself to ensure that it does not leave the lane. Active Lane Keeping Assist does not detect road and traffic conditions. Always make sure that there is sufficient distance to the side for other traffic or obstacles. In rare cases, unclear markings or particular structures on the roadway can be recognized as solid lane markings. An inappropriate brake application, e.g. after intentionally driving over a solid lane marking, may be interrupted at any time by steering slightly in the opposite direction. Active Lane Keeping Assist cannot take weather conditions into account. You are responsible for the driving at appropriate speeds, braking in good time, and steering correctly. Always adapt your driving style to suit the prevailing road and weather conditions. 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.

General notes

Active Lane Keeping Assist monitors the area in front of your vehicle by means of a camera : at the top of the windshield. Active Lane Keeping Assist detects lane markings on the road and warns you before you leave your lane unintentionally. If you do not react to the warning, a lane-correcting application of the brakes can bring the vehicle back into the original lane. If you select km on the on-board computer in the Display Unit Speed-/Odometer function (Y page 276), Active Lane Keeping Assist is activated starting at a speed of 60 km/h. If the miles display unit is selected, the assistance range begins at 40 mph. Warning vibration in the steering wheel A warning may be given if a front wheel passes over a lane marking. It will warn you by means of intermittent vibration in the steering wheel for up to 1.5 seconds. In order that you are warned only when necessary and in good time if you cross the lane marking, the system recognizes certain conditions and warns you accordingly. The warning vibration occurs earlier if: Ryou approach the outer lane marking on a

bend.

Rthe road has very wide lanes, e.g. a

freeway.

Rthe system recognizes solid lane markings.

244 Driving systems

If a lane-correcting brake application occurs, display : appears in the multifunction display. If you leave your lane under certain circumstances the vehicle will brake briefly on one side. This is meant to assist you in bringing the vehicle back to the original lane. This function is available in the range between 40 mph and 120 mph (60 km/h and 200 km/h). A lane-correcting brake application can only be made after driving over a solid, recognizable lane marking. Before this, a warning must be given by means of intermittent vibration in the steering wheel. In addition, a lane with lane markings on both sides must be recognized. The brake application also slightly reduces vehicle speed. i A further lane-correcting brake

application can only occur after your vehicle has returned to the original lane. No lane-correcting brake application occurs if: Ryou clearly and actively steer, brake or

accelerate.

Ryou cut the corner on a sharp bend. Ryou have switched on the turn signal. Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g. ESP®, PRE-SAFE® Brake or Active Blind Spot Assist.

Ryou have adopted a sporty driving style with

high cornering speeds or high rates of acceleration.

RESP® is switched off. Rthe transmission is not in position D. Ron vehicles with a trailer tow hitch, the

electrical connection to the trailer has been correctly established.

Rthe off-road program is activated (vehicles

without the ON&OFFROAD package). Roff-road program 1 or 2 is activated

(vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package). Rthe LOW RANGE off-road gear is activated (vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package). Ra loss of tire pressure or a defective tire has

been detected and displayed.

Active Lane Keeping Assist does not detect traffic situations or road users. An inappropriate brake application may be interrupted at any time if you: Rsteer slightly in the opposite direction. Ryou switch on the turn signal. Rclearly brake or accelerate. A lane-correcting brake application is interrupted automatically if: Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g. ESP®, PRE-SAFE® Brake or Active Blind Spot Assist.

Rlane markings can no longer be recognized. Switching on Active Lane Keeping Assist

X Switch on Active Lane Keeping Assist using the on-board computer; to do so, select Standard or Adaptive (Y page 275). Symbol : appears in the multifunction display. If Standard is selected, no warning vibration occurs if:

Ryou switch on the turn signals. In this

event, the warnings are suppressed for a certain period of time.

Ra driving safety system intervenes, such as ABS, BAS or ESP®. If Adaptive is selected, no warning vibration occurs if: Ryou switch on the turn signals. In this

event, the warnings are suppressed for a certain period of time.

Ra driving safety system intervenes, e.g.

ABS, BAS or ESP®.

Ryou accelerate hard, e.g. kickdown. Ryou brake hard. Ryou steer actively, e.g. swerve to avoid

an obstacle or change lane quickly. Ryou cut the corner on a sharp bend.

Towing a trailer When you attach a trailer, make sure you have correctly established the electrical connection. This can be accomplished by checking the trailer lighting.

On-road programs (vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package) General notes The on-road programs assist you during on- road driving and the off-road programs when driving off-road (Y page 250). The following program messages remain in the multifunction display until the corresponding vehicle level has been set. Up to off-road level 2, you can hide the program messages using the % or a button on the multifunction steering wheel.

Driving systems

245

AUTO program

Select the AUTO program for a more comfortable ride under all normal driving conditions. Your selection remains stored even if you remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock. X Selector wheel : engaged: briefly press

selector wheel :. Selector wheel : extends.

X To select: turn selector wheel : until

indicator lamp ; comes on. AUTO indicator = appears in the multifunction display. RHighway level is set. RADS (Adaptive Damping System) adapts comfortable damping characteristics to the current operating and driving conditions.

RThe automatic transmission selects the

automatic drive program for a comfortable driving style that provides for optimum fuel consumption.

246 Driving systems

SPORT program

Select the SPORT program for sporty, dynamic handling. Your selection remains stored even if you remove the SmartKey from the ignition lock. X Selector wheel : engaged: briefly press

selector wheel :. Selector wheel : extends.

X To select: turn selector wheel : until

indicator lamp ; comes on. SPORT indicator = appears in the multifunction display. RThe high-speed level of –15 mm when

compared with highway level is set.

RADS (Adaptive Damping System) adapts

sporty damping characteristics to the current operating and driving conditions. RThe automatic transmission selects the

automatic drive program for a sporty driving style.

RThe sporty accelerator pedal curve is selected, e.g. the accelerator pedal no

longer has to be pressed as far to accelerate.

RThe sporty steering curve is selected,

e.g. greater force is required when steering.

i You cannot select the SPORT program if LOW RANGE has been selected. The Drive Program SPORT Not in LOW RANGE message then appears in the multifunction display.

Snow program

Select the snow program for driving in snow with or without snow chains. X Selector wheel : engaged: briefly press

selector wheel :. Selector wheel : extends.

X To select: turn selector wheel : until

indicator lamp ; comes on. Snow indicator = appears in the multifunction display.

Driving systems

247

RHighway level is set. RADS (Adaptive Damping System) adapts comfortable damping characteristics to the current operating and driving conditions.

R4ETS and the differential lock are

adapted for driving on snow-covered roads.

RThe automatic transmission selects the

automatic drive program for a comfortable driving style that provides for optimum fuel consumption.

RThe soft accelerator pedal curve is

selected, e.g. the accelerator pedal must be pressed significantly further to accelerate.

RThe optimum gear for pulling away is

engaged.

Trailer program

Select the trailer program when towing a trailer.

X Selector wheel : engaged: briefly press

selector wheel :. Selector wheel : extends.

X To select: turn selector wheel : until

indicator lamp ; comes on. Trailer indicator = appears in the multifunction display. RHighway level is set. RADS (Adaptive Damping System) adapts comfortable damping characteristics to the current operating and driving conditions.

RThe automatic transmission selects the

automatic drive program for a comfortable driving style that provides for optimum fuel consumption, changing gear at optimum points.

RWhile pulling away, the differential locks

are engaged.

Off-road driving systems 4MATIC (permanent four-wheel drive) G WARNING If a drive wheel is spinning due to insufficient traction: RWhile driving off, apply as little throttle as

possible.

RWhile driving, ease up on the accelerator

pedal.

RAdapt your speed and driving style to the

prevailing road conditions.

Failure to observe these guidelines could cause the vehicle to skid. 4MATIC cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed.

! Never tow the vehicle with one axle

raised. This may damage the transfer case. Damage of this sort is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. All wheels must remain either on the ground or be fully raised. Observe the instructions

248 Driving systems

G WARNING If you depress the accelerator pedal with DSR activated, the vehicle can drive faster than the programmed set speed. You should therefore drive downhill with particular caution as it could lead to an accident and/or serious injury to you or others. Keep in mind that as soon as you remove your foot from the accelerator pedal with DSR switched on, DSR will start regulating the vehicle's speed including use of brakes if required. Depending on the programmed set speed, actual vehicle speed and gradient, DSR can cause the vehicle to slow down rapidly. Sudden and unexpected deceleration can result in loss of vehicle control, causing an accident and/or serious personal injury to you and others.

DSR assists you when driving downhill. It keeps the speed of travel at the speed set on the on-board computer. The steeper the downhill gradient, the greater the DSR braking effect on the vehicle. When driving on flat stretches of road or on an uphill gradient, the DSR braking effect is minimal or nonexistent. DSR controls the set speed when it is active and the automatic transmission is in the D, R or N position. By accelerating or braking, you can always drive at a higher or a lower speed than that set on the on-board computer. Further information about "Driving off-road" (Y page 186).

for towing the vehicle with all wheels in full contact with the ground.

! A function or performance test should

only be carried out on a two-axle dynamometer. Before you operate the vehicle on such a dynamometer, please consult a qualified workshop. You could otherwise damage the drive train or the brake system.

4MATIC ensures that all four wheels are permanently driven. Together with ESP® and 4ETS, it improves the traction of your vehicle whenever a drive wheel spins due to insufficient grip. i In wintry driving conditions, the maximum

effect of 4MATIC can only be achieved if you use winter tires (M+S tires), with snow chains if necessary.

For further information on driving off-road, see (Y page 186).

DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) Important safety notes G WARNING Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) is a convenience system designed to assist the driver during vehicle operation. The system setting must be appropriate to the topographical and weather conditions encountered, which can change quickly. The driver is responsible for the vehicle speed and for safe brake operation at all times. Depending on the programmed speed, actual vehicle speed and gradient, switching on DSR while driving can cause the vehicle to slow down rapidly, and you may hear a sound, caused by the activation of the vehicle's brake system through DSR. Sudden and unexpected deceleration can result in loss of vehicle control, causing an accident and/or serious personal injury to you and others. Do not switch on DSR in a situation where rapid deceleration could result in a loss of vehicle control.

Activating DSR

Driving systems

249

you select a different on-road/off-road program, DSR is also deactivated. Changing the set speed

Example: vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package : DSR button ; DSR indicator lamp X Press button :.

Indicator lamp ; lights up. The à DSR symbol appears in the multifunction display.

You can only activate DSR when driving at speeds below 25 mph (40 km/h). If the current vehicle speed is too high, the à DSR symbol appears in the multifunction display with the Max. Speed 25 mph message (Canada: 40 km/h). i You cant activate DSR if the SPORT on- road program is activated. The à DSR symbol and the Not in Drive Program SPORT message then appear in the multifunction display.

Deactivating DSR X Press button :.

Indicator lamp ; goes out. The à DSR symbol appears in the multifunction display with the Off message.

DSR switches off automatically if you drive faster than 28 mph (Canada: 45 km/h). The à DSR symbol appears in the multifunction display with the Off message. The status indicator in the multifunction display goes out. You also hear a warning. On vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package, if

X To increase or decrease in 1 mph

increments (Canada: 1 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : for a higher set speed or down ; for a lower set speed. The set speed appears in the multifunction display with the à DSR symbol. It is also displayed in status indicator =.

When DSR is activated, you can change the set speed to a value between 1 mph and 11 mph (Canada: between 2 km/h and 18 km/h). i The DSR set speed is always changed in

1 mph increments (Canada: 1 km/h increments). This is regardless of whether you press the cruise control lever to or beyond the pressure point.

Off-road programs (vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package) General notes The off-road programs assist you in driving off-road. The engine’s performance characteristics and the gearshifting characteristics of the automatic transmission are adapted for this purpose. ABS, ESP® and 4ETS programs especially adapted to off-road driving are activated. An accelerator pedal curve suitable for the terrain is selected, i.e. the accelerator pedal must be depressed further to accelerate. Do not use the off-road programs on roads that are snow-covered or icy or if you have mounted snow chains on your vehicle. For information on driving off-road, see (Y page 186). The following program messages are shown in the multifunction display until the applicable vehicle level is set. Up to off-road level 2, you can hide the program messages using the % or the a button on the multifunction steering wheel.

250 Driving systems

Off-road program (vehicles without the ON&OFFROAD package)

: Off-road program button ; Off-road program indicator lamp X To switch on: press button :.

Indicator lamp ; lights up. The Ç off- road indicator appears in the multifunction display.

X To switch off: press button :.

Indicator lamp ; and the Ç off-road indicator go out in the multifunction display.

The off-road program assists you in driving off-road. The engine’s performance characteristics and the gearshifting characteristics of the automatic transmission are adapted for this purpose. ABS, ESP® and 4ETS programs especially adapted to off-road driving are activated. A gentle accelerator pedal curve is also selected, i.e. the accelerator pedal must be depressed much further in order to accelerate. Do not use the off-road program on roads that are snow-covered or icy or if you have mounted snow chains on your vehicle. For information about driving off-road, see (Y page 186).

Off-road program 1

Off-road program 2

Driving systems

251

X Selector wheel : engaged: briefly press

selector wheel :. Selector wheel : extends.

X To select: turn selector wheel : until

indicator lamp ; comes on. Off-road indicator = appears in the multifunction display. ROff-road level 1 is set to +2.4 in

(+60 mm) above the highway level.

RDSR is switched on. RThe differential lock is closed.

Off-road program 2 automatically switches to off-road program 1 if you drive faster than 30 mph (45 km/h). Select off-road program 2 for rough terrain, e.g. for steep and/or rough terrain or driving on rocky terrain. i Your vehicle has an automatically

activated differential lock for the transfer case. It controls the balance between the front and rear axles.

X Selector wheel : engaged: briefly press

selector wheel :. Selector wheel : extends.

X To select: turn selector wheel : until

indicator lamp ; comes on. Off-road indicator = appears in the multifunction display. Off-road level 1 is set to +1.2 in (+ 30 mm) above the highway level.

If you drive at a speed above 70 mph (110 km/h), off-road program 1 switches to AUTO program. Select off-road program 1 for gentle off-road terrain, e.g. for gravel or sand surfaces or tracks. The engine's torque is restricted to a limited degree and the drive wheels can spin. The spinning wheels produce a cutting effect for better traction. You can only activate off-road program 1
when driving at speeds below 60 mph (100 km/h). The Drive Program OFFROAD 1 Max Speed 60 mph (100 km/h) message appears in the multifunction display.

252 Driving systems

The differential lock improves the vehicle’s traction. 4ETS (Y page 72) controls the balance between both wheels on an axle.

You can only activate off-road program 2
when driving at speeds below 25 mph (40 km/h).

LOW RANGE off-road gear (vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package) General notes G WARNING Always wait for the gear change process from HIGH RANGE to LOW RANGE and from LOW RANGE to HIGH RANGE to complete. Do not turn off the engine while changing gear and do not shift the automatic transmission to another gear. If you do not wait for the gear change process to complete, it may not be correctly implemented. The transfer case may then be in neutral and the power transmission between the engine and the drive axles may be interrupted. The vehicle can then move freely, even if a gear is engaged, and may inadvertently start moving, particularly if it is on a slope. Observe the following description in "Messages in the multifunction display".

: LOW RANGE off-road gear button ; LOW RANGE off-road gear indicator lamp

HIGH RANGE Position for all normal on-

road driving conditions.

LOW RANGE Off-road position for driving off-road and fording The transmission ratio between the engine and wheels is only approximately one third of that in the HIGH RANGE road position. The drive torque is correspondingly higher as a result. Do not use LOW RANGE: Ron slippery road

surfaces, e.g. in the case of slush

Ron snow or ice-covered

roads

Rif you have snow chains

on your vehicle

The LOW RANGE off-road gear assists you in driving off-road and when fording. When LOW RANGE is engaged, the engine’s performance characteristics and the gearshifting characteristics of the automatic transmission are adapted for this purpose. Further information about "Driving off-road" (Y page 186). You will find information about driving safety systems in conjunction with LOW RANGE in the "Safety" section (Y page 66). From HIGH RANGE to LOW RANGE ! Only change from LOW RANGE to HIGH

RANGE if: Rthe engine is running. Rthe transmission is in position N Ryou are driving at a speed below

40 km/h

X Press LOW RANGE button :.

Indicator lamp ; flashes.

Driving systems

253