2010 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

Resetting will not occur if you turn the SmartKey back to position 1 or 2 within this time period.

Fuel consumption statistics since last reset X Press button U or V repeatedly until the message From Start appears in the multifunction display. X Press button & or * repeatedly until the message From Reset appears in the multifunction display.

X Press button W or X repeatedly until

the desired speed is shown in the multifunction display. When DSR is switched on, DSR will use the programmed default speed to regulate the vehicle’s speed.

Once DSR is switched on, you can adjust the set speed using the cruise control lever (Y page 154).

Trip computer menu Use the Trip computer menu to call up statistical data on your vehicle. The following information is available: RFuel consumption statistics since start

(Y page 138)

RFuel consumption statistics since last reset

(Y page 138)

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: Distance driven since last reset ; Time elapsed since last reset = Average speed since last reset ? Average fuel consumption since last reset

Resetting fuel consumption statistics X Press button U or V repeatedly until the message From Start appears in the multifunction display.

X Press button & or * repeatedly until the reading that you want to reset appears in the multifunction display.

X Press and hold the reset button in the instrument cluster until the respective values are reset to 0. The fuel consumption statistics reset automatically to 0 after 99 999 miles or 9 999 hours, whichever occurs first.

Distance to empty X Press button U or V repeatedly until the message From Start appears in the multifunction display. X Press button & or * repeatedly until the message Range: appears in the multifunction display. The calculated remaining driving range based on the current fuel tank level appears in the multifunction display. If only very little fuel is left in the tank, a vehicle at the fuel pump C appears instead of the remaining driving range.

Current fuel consumption X Press button U or V repeatedly until the message From Start appears in the multifunction display. X Press button & or * repeatedly until the message Consumption appears in the multifunction display. The current fuel consumption appears in the multifunction display.

Telephone menu G Warning! A driver’s attention to the road must always be his/her primary focus when driving. For your safety and the safety of others, we recommend that you pull over to a safe location and stop before placing or taking a telephone call. If you choose to use the telephone while driving, please use the hands- free device and only use the telephone when weather, road and traffic conditions permit. Some jurisdictions prohibit the driver from using a mobile phone while driving a vehicle. Bear in mind that at a speed of just 30 mph (approximately 50 km/h), your vehicle is covering a distance of 44 feet (approximately 14 m) every second. You can connect your telephone to the COMAND system via Bluetooth®, see

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separate COMAND system operating instructions. X Switch on the COMAND system.

Refer to separate COMAND system operating instructions. X Press button U or V repeatedly until the message TEL appears in the multifunction display. One of the following messages will appear in the multifunction display: RNo Service: No network is available. RBluetooth Ready: The telephone has not been connected to the COMAND system via Bluetooth® yet.

X Connect the telephone to the

COMAND system via Bluetooth®. RReady or name of the network provider (if available): The telephone has found a network and is ready for use. You can operate it using the control system.

Answering a call When your telephone is ready to receive calls, you can answer a call at any time. In the multifunction display you will then see the following message, or if available, the caller ID (number or name):

X Press button 6.

You have answered the call.

Ending a call or rejecting an incoming call X Press button ~.

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Dialing a number from the phone book When your telephone is ready to receive calls, you may select and dial a number from the phone book at any time. X Press button U or V repeatedly until the message TEL appears in the multifunction display.

X Press button & or * repeatedly until

the desired name appears in the multifunction display. If you press and hold button & or * for longer than 1 second, the system scrolls rapidly through the list of names until you release the button again. The stored names are displayed in alphabetical order.

: Selected name from the phone book X Press button 6.

The control system dials the selected phone number. If the connection is successful and this feature is supported by your network provider, the name of the party (if stored in your phone book) you are calling will appear in the multifunction display. The control system stores the dialed number in the redial memory.

or X Press button ~ if you do not want to

make the call.

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Redialing The control system stores the most recently dialed phone numbers. This eliminates the need to search through your entire phone book. X Press button U or V repeatedly until the message TEL appears in the multifunction display.

X Press button 6.

The first number in the redial memory appears in the multifunction display.

X Press button & or * repeatedly until the desired number or name appears in the multifunction display.

X Press button 6.

The control system dials the selected phone number.

Driving systems Introduction This section describes the following driving systems of your vehicle: RCruise control RDistronic RDistance warning function (only available

with Distronic)

RHill-start assist system RDownhill Speed Regulation (DSR) ROff-road driving program RAir suspension program (Adaptive

Damping System (ADS) and vehicle level control)

RAll-wheel drive (4MATIC) RParktronic system RRear view camera The driving safety systems ABS, BAS, EBP, ESP® and 4-ETS are described in the “Safety and security” section (Y page 61).

Cruise control The cruise control maintains the speed you set for your vehicle automatically. The use of the cruise control is recommended for driving at a constant speed for extended periods of time. The currently set speed or last set speed (“Resume” function) appears in the status indicator of the multifunction display: RUSA only: e.g. Cruise 55 Miles RCanada only: e.g. ¯ 90 Km/h i The cruise control should not be activated

during off-road driving. 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.

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G Warning! When the cruise control is braking, the brake pedal is retracted (i.e. depressed automatically). The pedals’ range of motion must not be impeded by any obstacles: RDo not place any objects in the footwell. RMake sure that the floormats and carpets

are securely in place.

RDo not rest your foot underneath the brake

pedal, as it could otherwise be trapped. You could otherwise cause an accident and injure yourself and/or others.

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The vehicle speed displayed in the speedometer can briefly vary from the speed setting for the cruise control system.

Setting current speed X Accelerate or decelerate to the desired

speed.

X Briefly lift the cruise control lever in

direction of arrow : or press in direction of arrow ;.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal.

i On uphill grades, the cruise control may not be able to maintain the set speed. Once the grade eases, the set speed will be resumed. On downhill grades, the cruise control maintains the set speed by braking with the vehicle’s brake system. In addition, on longer downhill grades the automatic transmission will downshift automatically.

: Setting current or higher speed ; Setting current or lower speed = Canceling the cruise control ? Activating the cruise control or resuming

to last set speed

Activating cruise control You can activate the cruise control at a vehicle speed above 20 mph (30 km/h). You cannot activate the cruise control Rwhen you brake Rwhen you have engaged the parking brake Rwhen the automatic transmission is in park

position P, reverse gear R, or neutral position N

Rthe ESP® is switched off or has switched off

due to a malfunction

Canceling cruise control X Depress the brake pedal. or X Briefly push the cruise control lever in

direction of arrow =. The last set speed is stored for later use. The last stored speed is deleted from memory when the engine is turned off. The cruise control switches off automatically when you depress the brake pedal or you engage the parking brake. The cruise control switches off automatically and an acoustic warning will sound when Rthe vehicle speed falls below 20 mph

(30 km/h)

Rthe ESP® is in operation Rthe ESP® is switched off with the ESP®

switch

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Rthe ESP® has switched off due to a

malfunction

Ryou shift the automatic transmission into

neutral position N while driving

Observe additional messages in the multifunction display that may appear. Depressing the accelerator pedal does not deactivate the cruise control. After a brief acceleration (e.g. for passing), the cruise control will resume the last set speed.

Changing the set 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. You can increase or decrease the set speed in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments or in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments. When you use the cruise control lever to decelerate, the brake system will brake the vehicle automatically if the engine’s braking power does not brake the vehicle sufficiently. Adjustment in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments i The set speed value is increased or

decreased in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments each time you lift or press the cruise control lever up or down to the resistance point.

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X Increasing: Briefly lift the cruise control

lever up to the resistance point in direction of arrow :.

X Decreasing: Briefly press the cruise

control lever down to the resistance point in direction of arrow ;.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The new speed is set and the vehicle will accelerate or decelerate.

Adjustment in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments i The set speed value is increased or

decreased in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments each time you lift or press the cruise control lever up or down past the resistance point.

X Increasing: Briefly lift the cruise control

lever up past the resistance point in direction of arrow :.

X Decreasing: Briefly press the cruise

control lever down past the resistance point in direction of arrow ;.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The new speed is set and the vehicle will accelerate or decelerate. Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has reached the set speed.

Setting stored speed (Resume function) 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.

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X Briefly pull the cruise control lever in

direction of arrow ?. If no speed is stored, the current speed is set and stored.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal.

The last stored speed is deleted from memory when the engine is turned off.

Distronic Safety notes When activated, the Distronic adaptive cruise control increases the driving convenience afforded by the cruise control while traveling on expressways and other major roadways. RIf the Distronic distance sensor detects a slower moving vehicle directly ahead, your vehicle speed will be reduced so that you follow that vehicle at your preset following distance.

RIf there is no vehicle directly ahead of you, the Distronic will function in the same way as standard cruise control (Y page 141). G Warning! The Distronic requires familiarity with its operational characteristics. We strongly recommend that you review the following information carefully before operating the system. G Warning! HYBRID vehicles: It is imperative that you read the HYBRID Supplemental Operating Instructions included in your vehicle literature portfolio. You may otherwise not recognize potential danger.

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G Warning! When the Distronic is braking, the brake pedal is retracted (i.e. depressed automatically). The pedals’ range of motion must not be impeded by any obstacles: RDo not place any objects in the footwell. RMake sure that the floormats and carpets

are securely in place.

RDo not rest your foot underneath the brake

pedal, as it could otherwise be trapped. You could otherwise cause an accident and injure yourself and/or others. G Warning! The Distronic 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 cannot take street and traffic conditions into account. Complex driving situations are not always fully recognized by the Distronic. This could result in wrong or missing distance warnings. G Warning! The Distronic adaptive cruise control is not a substitute for active driving involvement. It does not react to pedestrians or on stationary objects, nor does it recognize or predict the lane curvature or the movement of preceding vehicles. The Distronic can only apply 20% of the maximum braking power of the vehicle. It is the driver’s responsibility at all times to be attentive to the road, weather and traffic conditions. Additionally, the driver must provide the steering, braking and other driving

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inputs necessary to remain in control of the vehicle. High-frequency sources such as toll stations, speed measuring systems etc. can cause the Distronic system to malfunction. G Warning! The Distronic cannot take road and traffic conditions into account. Only use the Distronic if the road, weather and traffic conditions make it advisable to travel at a constant speed. G Warning! Use of the Distronic can be dangerous on slippery roads. Rapid changes in tire traction can result in wheel spin and loss of control. The Distronic does not function in adverse sight and distance conditions. Do not use the Distronic during conditions of fog, heavy rain, snow or sleet. G Warning! The Distronic cannot take weather conditions into account. Switch off the Distronic 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 system sensor cover is 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 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

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previously set speed and wishes to resume this particular preset speed. G Warning! Close attention to road and traffic conditions is imperative at all times, regardless of whether or not the Distronic is activated. Use of the Distronic can be dangerous on winding roads or in heavy traffic because conditions do not allow safe driving at a constant speed. The Distronic will not react to stationary objects in the roadway (e.g. a stopped vehicle in a traffic jam or a disabled vehicle). The Distronic will also not respond to oncoming vehicles. Switch off the Distronic: Rwhen changing from the left to the right

lane if vehicles are moving more slowly in the left lane

Rwhen entering a turn lane or highway off

ramp

Rin complex driving situations, such as in

highway construction zones

In these situations, the Distronic will continue to maintain the set speed unless deactivated. The Distronic is designed and intended only to maintain a set speed and keep a set distance from moving objects in front of it.

i 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.

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Distronic displays in the speedometer

When the Distronic is activated, one or two cruise control speed segments come on around set speed :. The vehicle speed displayed on the speedometer can briefly vary from the speed setting on the Distronic system.

When the Distronic detects a vehicle directly ahead, the cruise control speed segments ; appear in the speedometer. These segments represent the difference between the set speed of your vehicle : and the speed of the preceding vehicle =. If the Distronic calculates that there is a danger of collision, the distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster comes on and an intermittent warning sounds. X Immediately apply the brakes to avoid a

collision. Under no circumstances should the driver await the intermittent warning sound before braking.

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The intermittent warning sound ceases and the distance warning lamp · goes out when the necessary distance to the vehicle ahead is established again. G Warning! An intermittent warning sounds and the distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster is illuminated if the Distronic system calculates that the distance to the vehicle ahead and your vehicle’s current speed indicate that the Distronic 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! The Distronic brakes your vehicle with a maximum deceleration of 6.5 ft/s2 (2 m/s2). This corresponds to approximately 20% of the maximum deceleration of your vehicle. You must also apply the brakes yourself to avoid a collision. The Distronic brakes the vehicle in an effort to restore the preset distance or to maintain the set speed. The brake pedal is automatically applied as this happens which results in the brake pedal moving Keep driver’s foot area clear at all times, including the area under the brake pedal. Objects stored in this area may impair pedal movement which could interfere with the braking ability of the Distronic system. Do not place your foot under the brake pedal – your foot could become caught.

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Distronic menu in the control system Use the DISTRONIC menu to display the current settings for your Distronic system. The information shown in the multifunction display depends on whether the Distronic system and/or the distance warning function are activated or deactivated. i To activate or deactivate the Distronic

system, see (Y page 147) or see (Y page 149). To activate or deactivate the Distance warning function, see (Y page 137).

X Press button V or U repeatedly until one of the following two displays appears in the multifunction display.

Distronic deactivated When the Distronic is deactivated, you will see the standard Distronic display in the multifunction display.

: Preceding vehicle, if detected ; Actual distance to the preceding vehicle = Preset distance threshold to the

preceding vehicle

? Your vehicle

Distronic activated When the Distronic is activated :, you will see the set speed ; in the multifunction display for approximately 5 seconds. The following display appears in the multifunction display.

After approximately 5 seconds the currently set speed ; appears in the status indicator of the multifunction display: DTR XXX Miles Cruise control lever The Distronic system is operated by means of the cruise control lever.

: Setting current or higher speed ; Setting current or lower speed = Deactivating the Distronic ? Activating the Distronic or resuming to

the last set speed

Activating Distronic You can activate the Distronic when the vehicle speed is between 20 mph (30 km/h) and 110 mph (180 km/h). When the Distronic is activated, one or two cruise control speed segments around the set speed in the speedometer dial are illuminated. The multifunction display will show a message such as DISTRONIC 55 MPH (Canada: DISTRONIC 90 km/h).

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After approximately 5 seconds the currently set speed appears in the status indicator of the multifunction display: RUSA only: e.g. DTR 55 Miles RCanada only: e.g. DTR 90 km/h If the Distronic is not activated after the cruise control lever is pulled in direction of arrow ? (Y page 147), you will see the message DISTRONIC Off in the multifunction display. In the following cases you cannot activate the Distronic: Rup to 2 minutes after starting the engine Rwhen you brake Rwhen you have engaged the parking brake Rwhen the automatic transmission is in park

position P, reverse gear R, or neutral position N

Rwhen the ESP® is switched off or has

switched off due to a malfunction The vehicle speed displayed on the speedometer can briefly vary from the speed setting on the Distronic system.

Setting the current speed X Accelerate or decelerate to the desired

speed.

X Briefly lift the cruise control lever in direction of arrow : or depress in direction of arrow ; (Y page 147).

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal.

i If you do not take your foot off of the

accelerator pedal and continue to accelerate past the set speed, the following message will appear in the multifunction display: DISTRONIC Override The distance to a slower moving vehicle in front of you will not be set. Your vehicle speed will then be determined only by the accelerator pedal position.

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Changing the set 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. You can increase or decrease the set speed in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments or in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments. When you use the cruise control lever to decelerate, the brake system will brake the vehicle automatically if the engine’s braking power does not brake the vehicle sufficiently. Adjustment in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments i The set speed value is increased or

decreased in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments each time you lift or press the cruise control lever up or down to the resistance point.

X Increasing: Briefly lift the cruise control

lever up to the resistance point in direction of arrow : (Y page 147).

X Decreasing: Briefly press the cruise

control lever down to the resistance point in direction of arrow ; (Y page 147).

X Release the cruise control lever.

The new speed is set and the vehicle will accelerate or decelerate.

Adjustment in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments i The set speed value is increased or

decreased in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments each time you lift or press the cruise control lever up or down past the resistance point.

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X Increasing: Briefly lift the cruise control

lever up past the resistance point in direction of arrow : (Y page 147). X Decreasing: Briefly press the cruise

control lever down past the resistance point in direction of arrow ; (Y page 147).

X Release the cruise control lever.

The new speed is set and the vehicle will accelerate or decelerate. Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has reached the set speed.

Setting stored speed (Resume function) 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 in direction of arrow ? (Y page 147). If no speed is stored, the current speed is set and stored.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

pedal.

Deactivating Distronic X Depress the brake pedal. or X Briefly push the cruise control lever in

direction of arrow = (Y page 147). The cruise control speed segments in the speedometer dial will go out and the following message appears briefly in the multifunction display: DISTRONIC Off The last set speed is stored for later use. The last stored speed is deleted from memory when the engine is turned off. The Distronic switches off automatically when you depress the brake pedal or you

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engage the parking brake. In this case, the cruise control speed segments in the speedometer dial will go out. The Distronic also switches off automatically when Rthe vehicle speed falls below 20 mph

(30 km/h)

Rthe ESP® is in operation Rthe ESP® is switched off with the ESP®

switch

Rthe ESP® has switched off due to a

malfunction

Ryou shift the automatic transmission into

neutral position N while driving

The cruise control speed segments in the speedometer dial goes out and an acoustic warning will sound. Observe additional messages in the multifunction display that may appear. G Warning! Distronic switches off and releases the brakes when the vehicle decelerates below the minimum speed of 20 mph (30 km/h) by operation of the system. At that time the driver must apply the brakes in order to reduce vehicle speed further or bring it to a stop. Depressing the accelerator pedal does not deactivate the Distronic. After a brief acceleration (e.g. for passing), the Distronic will resume the last set speed.

Setting the following distance in Distronic You can set the specified following distance for Distronic by varying the time setting between 1.0 and 2.0 seconds. Using this time setting and the current speed of your vehicle, Distronic calculates and sets the required following distance to the preceding vehicle. The set distance will be shown in the multifunction display.

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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.

X Increasing distance: Turn distance

setting switch : in direction of arrow =. Increasing the distance setting tells Distronic to maintain a greater following distance to the preceding vehicle.

X Decreasing distance: Turn distance

setting switch : in direction of arrow ;. Decreasing the distance setting tells Distronic to maintain a shorter following distance to the preceding vehicle.

Driving with Distronic This section describes a number of driving situations where special precaution is required on the part of the driver. Be prepared to brake in such situations. Braking will deactivate the Distronic system. G Warning! The Distronic 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).

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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 could lose sight of the preceding vehicle. Your vehicle could then accelerate to the previously selected speed.

The Distronic regulates only the distance between your vehicle and those directly ahead of it, but does 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 should not be used in snowy or icy road conditions. The most likely cause for a malfunctioning system is a dirty Distronic system sensor cover (located in the hood grille), especially at times of snow and ice or heavy rain. In such a case, the Distronic will switch off, and the message DISTRONIC Currently Unavailable – See Operator’s Manual appears in the multifunction display. For cleaning and care of the Distronic system sensor cover, see (Y page 263). i If the message DISTRONIC Available Again appears during driving, the dirt (e.g. slush) has dissolved; the Distronic works again, if you reactivate it (Y page 147).

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The Distronic has not yet detected the vehicle changing lanes. There will be insufficient distance to the lane-changing vehicle. Narrow vehicles

In turns or bends, the Distronic may not detect a moving vehicle in front, or it may detect one too soon. This may cause your vehicle to brake late or unexpectedly. Offset driving

A vehicle traveling in your lane but offset from your direct line of travel may not be detected by the Distronic. There will be insufficient distance to the preceding vehicle. Lane changing

Because of their narrow profile, the vehicles traveling near the outer edges of the lane have not yet been detected by the Distronic. There will be insufficient distance to the preceding vehicles.

Distance warning function This function warns you at a vehicle speed of above approximately 20 mph (30 km/h) in the following cases: RAt the current speed, the distance between

your vehicle and the preceding vehicle is too low for several seconds. The distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster comes on.

RYou are gaining on a preceding vehicle rapidly. An intermittent warning sounds and the distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster comes on.

If these warnings are issued, you must apply the brakes to maintain a safe distance and avoid a collision with the preceding vehicle. When depressing the brake pedal, the warning sound ceases. The warning sound will also cease when the distance to the preceding vehicle is sufficient again without applying the brakes. In this case, the distance warning lamp · will also go out.

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G Warning! If the distance warning lamp · in the instrument cluster comes on while driving and/or an intermittent warning sounds, immediate attention on the part of the driver is required. As required by the traffic situation, apply the brakes and navigate around a possible obstacle. However, do not drive by relying on the distance warning function, as this will result in an emergency braking application. This will not always enable you to avoid a collision, especially when traveling on varying road surface conditions and with varying driver reaction. Complex driving situations are not always fully recognized by the distance warning function. This could result in wrong or missing distance warnings.

X Activating/deactivating: Activate or

deactivate the distance warning function in the control system (Y page 137). When activated, the distance warning function indicator Ä appears in the multifunction display.

Hill-start assist system G Warning! The hill-start assist system is not designed to function as a parking brake. It does not prevent the vehicle from moving when parked on an incline. Always engage the parking brake in addition to shifting the automatic transmission into park position P. On uphill grades, the hill-start assist system maintains the pressure in the brake system for approximately 1 second after you have released the brake pedal. Therefore, you can start off smoothly without the vehicle moving immediately after releasing the brake pedal. X Depress the brake pedal. X Shift the automatic transmission into drive

position D or reverse gear R.

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X Release the brake pedal. X Carefully depress the accelerator pedal. The hill-start assist system is inactive Rwhen starting off on a level road or downhill

grades

Rwith the automatic transmission in neutral

position N

Rwith the parking brake engaged Rif the ESP® has switched off due to a

malfunction

Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) For information on off-road driving, see “Off- road driving” (Y page 248). The DSR is an aid for driving downhill. The DSR regulates your vehicle’s speed when driving downhill to the value set in the control system (Y page 138). The steeper the downhill gradient is, the greater the brake application. On flat road surfaces, the DSR brakes only slightly or not at all. G Warning! The Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) is a convenience system designed to assist the driver during vehicle operation. The system must be set to be appropriate for the topographical and weather conditions encountered which can change quickly. The driver is and must remain at all times responsible for the vehicle speed and for safe brake operation. Depending on the programmed speed, actual vehicle speed and gradient, switching on the DSR while driving can cause the vehicle to slow down rapidly and you may hear a sound which is caused by the activation of the vehicle’s brake system through the 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 the DSR in

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a circumstance where rapid deceleration could result in a loss of vehicle control. The DSR regulates the vehicle’s speed in automatic transmission positions D, or R. i In addition, make use of the engine’s braking effect by shifting the automatic transmission into a lower gear.

You can drive slower or faster than the set speed at any time by braking the vehicle or depressing the accelerator pedal. i Whenever the DSR is switched on, the

DSR will use the programmed default speed to regulate the vehicle’s speed. The default speed programmed at the factory is 4 mph (Canada: 6 km/h). The default speed can be reprogrammed using the control system (Y page 138). The next time the DSR is switched on, the DSR will use the newly programmed default speed to regulate the vehicle’s speed. Once the DSR is switched on, you can adjust the set speed using the cruise control lever (Y page 142). Keep in mind that adjusting the set speed using the cruise control lever with the DSR switched on will not change the programmed default speed. If the DSR is switched off and then switched on again, the DSR will use the programmed default speed. Depending on the road surface and level of downhill grade, the DSR may not be able to maintain the set speed. To maintain the set speed, apply the brakes if necessary.

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Switching the DSR on/off

G Warning! If the accelerator pedal is depressed while the Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) is activated, the vehicle can drive faster than the programmed set speed. You should therefore drive downhill with particular caution as it could otherwise 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 the DSR switched on, the 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, the 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. Switching on the DSR The DSR can only be switched on if the vehicle speed is below 20 mph (Canada: 30 km/h). X Press DSR switch :. Indicator lamp ; comes on. The message DSR and the set speed appear in the multifunction display.

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i If the DSR is switched on at a speed above 20 mph (Canada: 30 km/h), the message DSR Max. Speed 20 MPH (Canada: 30 km/h) appears in the multifunction display.

For information on how to program the set speed while driving, see “Adjusting the DSR speed” (Y page 154). Switching off the DSR X Press DSR switch :. Indicator lamp ; goes out. The message DSR Off appears in the multifunction display.

i At a speed above approximately 21 mph (Canada approximately: 35 km/h), the DSR is automatically switched off. The message DSR Off appears in the multifunction display and an acoustic signal sounds. For information on how to switch the DSR on again, see “Switching on the DSR” (Y page 153).

Adjusting the DSR speed With the DSR switched on (Y page 153), the speed setting can be changed using the cruise control lever.

Cruise control lever You can change the set speed between 3-10 mph (Canada: 4-18 km/h). You can increase or reduce the set speed in two ways.

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Adjustment in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments i The set value is increased or decreased in 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h) increments each time you lift or depress the cruise control lever to the resistance point.

Increase set speed: X Briefly lift the cruise control lever up to the resistance point in direction of arrow :.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The vehicle speed increases in increments of 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h).

Reduce set speed: X Briefly press the cruise control lever down

to the resistance point in direction of arrow ;.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The vehicle speed decreases in increments of 1 mph (Canada: 1 km/h). Each time the set speed is changed, DSR will appear in the multifunction display and the changed set speed is shown.

The set speed is canceled when the DSR is switched off. If the DSR is switched on again, the DSR will use the programmed default speed (Y page 138). Adjustment in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments i The set value is increased or decreased in 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h) increments each time you lift or depress the cruise control lever past the resistance point.

Increase set speed: X Briefly lift the cruise control lever up past

the resistance point in direction of arrow :.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The vehicle speed increases in increments of 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h).

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Reduce set speed: X Briefly press the cruise control lever down

past the resistance point in direction of arrow ;.

X Release the cruise control lever.

The vehicle speed decreases in increments of 5 mph (Canada: 10 km/h). Each time the set speed is changed, DSR will appear in the multifunction display and the changed set speed is shown. The new speed is set and the vehicle will accelerate or decelerate. Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has reached the new set speed.

The set speed is canceled when the DSR is switched off. If the DSR is switched on again, the DSR will use the programmed default speed (Y page 138).

Off-road driving program The off-road driving program is designed to assist the driver when driving off-road in terrain and crossing water. The off-road driving program adjusts the engine power and shifting of the automatic transmission to be more suitable for the off-road use of the vehicle. In addition, the ABS, ESP®, and 4-ETS designed for off-road use are automatically activated. In the following situations you should switch to the off-road driving program: Rduring off-road driving Rwhen crossing water (Y page 251) Rwhen towing up or down on steep gradients

Example illustration: All models, except ML 63 AMG

i In AMG vehicles you can switch the Off-

road driving program on or off via the control system (Y page 125).

X Switching on: Press switch :.

Indicator lamp ; comes on. The symbol Ç appears in the lower multifunction display.

X Switching off: Press switch : again. Indicator lamp ; goes out. The symbol Ç disappears.

Air suspension program The system lets you select the chassis and suspension setup. The chassis and suspension setup adjusts the damping behavior and the ride height for your vehicle. The system consists of two components. The Adaptive Damping System (ADS) (Y page 156) and the vehicle level control (Y page 156).

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ML 63 AMG The air suspension program is part of the ML 63 AMG standard equipment range. Due to the vehicle’s sportier suspension tuning, in comparison with standard vehicles, the level positions in the ADS settings as well as the speed thresholds for raising and lowering the vehicle have been modified. From the highway/high-speed level, the vehicle is lowered to the ADS SPORT level approximately 20 seconds after it is locked. From the raised level, the vehicle is not lowered after it is locked. When the engine is started, the previously selected setting, e.g. ADS COMF, is selected again. ! Be sure to observe this vehicle’s differing

values for ground clearance and vehicle height in comparison to standard vehicles. You could otherwise damage the vehicle. Observe the values for Ropening the tailgate Rdriving off-road Rthe vehicle’s main dimensions in the

“Technical data” section

Adaptive Damping System (ADS) The Adaptive Damping System (ADS) is controlled electronically and operates continuously. It adjusts the damping characteristics to the current operating and driving conditions. The damping is adjusted individually for each wheel. Driving safety and tire comfort are increased. The fine tuning of the damping is dependent on: Ryour driving style Rroad surface conditions Ryour personal settings

The following settings are available: RAUTO (for normal driving situations)

Indicator lamps ; and = are off.

RSPORT (for sporty driving)

Indicator lamp ; comes on. With the ADS SPORT setting, the vehicle is lowered approximately 0.6 in (15 mm). ML63 AMG: With the ADS SPORT setting, the vehicle is lowered approximately 0.3 in (8 mm).

RCOMF (for comfort driving) Indicator lamp = comes on. ML63 AMG: The vehicle is raised approximately 0.28 in (7 mm).

X Start the engine. X Press ADS switch : repeatedly until the

desired suspension tuning is reached.

The setting remains stored when you turn off the engine.

Vehicle level control Your vehicle automatically adjusts its ride height to increase vehicle safety and to reduce fuel consumption. Changes to the vehicle level should be made while the vehicle is moving. The vehicle will then reach the set level as fast as possible. When you park the vehicle and the ambient temperature changes, the vehicle level may change visibly. When the temperature drops,

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the vehicle lowers. When the temperature rises, the vehicle raises. The vehicle automatically regulates its ride height based on the set vehicle height and the current speed: RAs your driving speed increases, the vehicle

is lowered by increments until it reaches highspeed level.

RVehicles with ADS: If you are driving with

the ADS setting COMF or AUTO, the vehicle is raised back to highway level as your driving speed decreases.

RVehicles with ADS: You can select the

highspeed level via the ADS setting SPORT. In ADS SPORT, the vehicle is lowered directly to highspeed level as your driving speed increases.

The vehicle begins adjusting to the set vehicle level as soon as the doors or tailgate are unlocked or opened or closed with the vehicle unlocked. In order to operate the vehicle level control switch (Y page 157), however, the engine must be running. G Warning! Make sure no one is near the wheel housing or under the vehicle when you lower the vehicle while it is standing still. Limbs could become wedged into or under the vehicle. For safety reasons, the vehicle can only be lowered with all doors and the tailgate closed. Lowering is interrupted if a door or the tailgate is opened and will continue after the door is closed again. G Warning! Please be aware that by raising the vehicle level, the center of gravity also rises. Therefore, always ensure that the vehicle level is as low as possible. With higher ride height the ESP® may activate earlier in certain situations. Adapt your speed and driving to possible changed driving behavior of the vehicle after

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changing the vehicle level. The ESP® cannot prevent accidents, including those resulting from excessive speed. The ESP® cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle.

! Keep in mind that in rough or uneven terrain, adjusting the vehicle to a lower level may cause the vehicle underbody to come in contact with the ground and result in damage to the vehicle underbody. Always make sure the vehicle has sufficient ground clearance before adjusting it to a lower level.

! Before jacking up the vehicle with

equipment that lifts one or more of the wheels completely off of the ground, remove the SmartKey from the starter switch.

For information on off-road driving, see “Off- road driving” (Y page 248).

Basic settings (except ML 63 AMG) The following vehicle chassis ride heights can be selected using vehicle level control switch : in the center console:

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Level Raised level

Highway level

Driving situation For off-road driving or driving in rough terrain. Indicator lamp ; is on. For driving on paved roads in fair or better condition. Indicator lamp ; is off.

Level Raised level

Highway level

Driving situation For off-road driving or driving in rough terrain. Indicator lamp ; is on. For driving on paved roads in fair or better condition. Indicator lamp ; is off.

i The third available level is the highspeed

level that is set automatically.

i The third available level is the highspeed

level that is set automatically.

How much the vehicle is lowered or raised depends on the ADS setting selected. At the raised level, the vehicle is 2.9 in (73 mm) higher than at the highway level with ADS AUTO.

Raised level Only select the raised level if appropriate for the driving situation encountered. Otherwise the fuel consumption may increase and/or the handling characteristics of the vehicle may be unfavorable. i You can select the raised level at speeds up to 40 mph (64 km/h). At higher speeds, the message Á Level Selection Not Permitted appears in the multifunction display.

X Start the engine. When indicator lamp ; is off: X Press vehicle level control switch :. Indicator lamp ; flashes. The vehicle adjusts to the raised level. The following message appears in the multifunction display while the level is being set:

The following is the approximate change in ride height for each of the level settings: Level Raised level Highway level16
Highspeed level

Ride height +2.3 in (60 mm) +/-0 in (0 mm)

-0.6 in (-15 mm)

i Vehicles with ADS:

Depending on the ADS setting (Y page 156), the vehicle will be lowered to the highspeed level when traveling at higher speeds. At speeds below 40 mph (64 km/h) at the latest, it will be returned to the highway level.

i The highspeed level is not available when

towing a trailer. For more information on towing a trailer, see “Trailer towing” (Y page 254).

Basic settings (ML 63 AMG) The following vehicle chassis ride heights can be selected using vehicle level control switch : in the center console:

16 Ground clearance: 7.9 in (201 mm)

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i The message can be cleared by pressing the V, U, & or * button on the multifunction steering wheel.

i The message can be cleared by pressing the V, U, & or * button on the multifunction steering wheel.

When the raised level is reached, indicator lamp ; comes on continuously and the following message appears in the multifunction display for approximately 5 seconds:

When the highway level is reached, indicator lamp ; goes out and the following message appears in the multifunction display for approximately 5 seconds:

The vehicle is lowered to the highway level automatically if the vehicle speed is above 55 mph (88 km/h) or if the vehicle speed stays between 40 mph (64 km/h) and 55 mph (88 km/h) for approximately 20 seconds.

All-wheel drive (4MATIC) In vehicles with all-wheel drive (4MATIC), both axles are powered at all times when the vehicle is being operated. The 4MATIC improves traction in conjunction with the ESP® (Y page 63) and the Electronic Traction System (ETS/4-ETS) (Y page 64).

Highway level ! Keep in mind that on rough or uneven

roads, adjusting the vehicle to a lower level may cause the vehicle underbody to come in contact with the road and result in damage to the vehicle underbody. Always make sure the vehicle has sufficient ground clearance before adjusting it to a lower level.

X Start the engine. When indicator lamp ; is on: X Press vehicle level control switch :. Indicator lamp ; flashes. The vehicle adjusts to the highway level. The following message appears in the multifunction display while the level is being set:

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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. The 4MATIC cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed.

! Do not tow with one axle raised. Doing so could damage the transfer case, which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. All wheels must be on or off the ground. Observe instructions for towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground.

! Only conduct operational or performance tests on a two-axle dynamometer. If such tests are necessary, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. You could otherwise seriously damage the brake system and/or the transfer case which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

i In winter operation, the maximum effectiveness of the 4MATIC is only achieved with winter tires (Y page 242) or snow chains as required.

Parktronic system The Parktronic system is an electronic parking aid with ultrasonic sensors designed to assist the driver during parking maneuvers. The Parktronic system indicates the relative distance between the vehicle and an obstacle visually and audibly.

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The Parktronic system is activated automatically when Ryou switch on the ignition

and

Ryou release the parking brake

and

Rthe automatic transmission is in drive position D, reverse gear R, or neutral position N

The Parktronic system deactivates at speeds above approximately 11 mph (18 km/h). At lower speeds, the Parktronic system activates again. The Parktronic system also deactivates when you shift the automatic transmission into park position P or engage the parking brake. The Parktronic system monitors the surroundings of your vehicle with six sensors in the front bumper and four sensors in the rear bumper.

To function properly, sensors : must be free of dirt, ice, snow and slush. Clean sensors : regularly. Be careful not to scratch or damage sensors :, see “Cleaning the driving systems sensors” (Y page 263). G Warning! The Parktronic is a supplemental system. It is not intended to, nor does it replace, the need for extreme care. The responsibility during parking and other critical maneuvers always remains with the driver.

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