2013 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

Drive on for a short while. This allows the airflow to cool the brakes more quickly.

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

184 Driving tips

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

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

beginning and end of a journey.

RMaintain a greater distance to the vehicle

ahead.

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

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

! A function or performance test should

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

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

All checks and maintenance work on the brake system must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop. Consult a qualified specialist workshop to arrange this. Have brake pads installed and brake fluid replaced at a qualified specialist workshop. If the brake system has only been subject to moderate loads, you should test the functionality of your brakes at regular intervals. To do so, press firmly on the brake pedal when driving at a high speed. This improves the grip of the brake pads. You can find a description of Brake Assist (BAS) on (Y page 67) or of BAS PLUS on (Y page 67). Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only have brake pads/linings installed on your vehicle which have been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which correspond to an equivalent quality standard. Brake pads/linings which have not been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which are not of an equivalent quality could affect your vehicle's operating safety. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use brake fluid that has been specially approved for your vehicle by Mercedes-Benz, or which corresponds to an equivalent quality standard. Brake fluid which has not been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles or which is not of an equivalent quality could affect your vehicle's operating safety.

High-performance brake system for AMG vehicles The high-performance brake system is installed only on the ML 63 AMG. The high-performance brake system is designed for heavy loads. This may lead to noise when braking. This will depend on: RSpeed RBraking force REnvironmental conditions, such as

temperature and humidity

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185

The wear of individual components of the brake system, such as the brake pads/linings or brake discs, depends on the individual driving style and operating conditions. For this reason, it is impossible to state a mileage that will be valid under all circumstances. An aggressive driving style will lead to high wear. You can obtain further information about this from your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. New and replaced brake pads and discs only reach their optimum braking effect after several hundred kilometers of driving. Compensate for this by applying greater force to the brake pedal. Keep this in mind, and adapt your driving and braking accordingly during this break-in period. Excessive heavy braking results in correspondingly high brake wear. Observe the # brake wear warning lamp in the instrument cluster and note any brake status messages in the multifunction display. Especially for high performance driving, it is important to maintain and have the brake system checked regularly.

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

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

Check the depth of any water before driving through it. Drive slowly through standing water. Otherwise, water may enter the vehicle interior or the engine compartment. This can damage the electronic components in the engine or the automatic transmission. Water can also be drawn in by the engine's air suction nozzles and this can cause engine damage.

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

Off-road fording ! Under no circumstances should you

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

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

: Fording depth

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Steel-sprung vehicles

Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package and AMG vehicles Raised level

Fording depth 20 in (50 cm)

20 in (50 cm)

REstablish how deep the water is and the

characteristics of the body of water before fording.

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

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

at a steady walking pace.

RDrive slowly and at an even speed through

the water.

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

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

REnsure that a bow wave does not form as

you drive.

RClean any mud from the tire tread after

fording.

RApply the brakes to dry them after fording.

Winter driving General notes G WARNING If you shift down on a slippery road surface in an attempt to increase the engine's braking effect, the drive wheels could lose their grip. There is an increased danger of skidding and accidents.

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

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

Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 400).

Driving with summer tires Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section (Y page 400).

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

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

snow chains, see (Y page 401).

Drive particularly carefully on slippery road surfaces. Avoid sudden acceleration, steering and braking maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS. The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose. Changes in the outside temperature are displayed after a short delay. Indicated temperatures just above the freezing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice. The road may still be icy, especially in wooded areas or on bridges. You should pay special attention to road conditions when temperatures are around freezing point.

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

When driving off-road, sand, mud and water, possibly mixed with oil, for example, could get

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187

into the brakes. This could result in a reduced braking effect or in total brake failure and also in increased wear and tear. The braking characteristics change depending on the material ingressing the brakes. Clean the brakes after driving off-road. If you detect a reduced braking effect or grinding noises, have the brake system checked in a qualified specialist workshop as soon as possible. Adapt your driving style to the different braking characteristics. Driving off-road increases the likelihood of damage to the vehicle, which, in turn, can lead to failure of the mechanical assembly or systems. Adapt your driving style to suit the terrain conditions. Drive carefully. Have damage to the vehicle rectified immediately at a qualified specialist workshop. Do not switch to transmission position N when driving off-road. You could lose control of the vehicle if you attempt to brake using the service brake. If the gradient is too steep, drive backwards in reverse gear.

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

RDSR (Downhill Speed Regulation)

(Y page 209)

(Y page 246)

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

along an off-road route.

RFor vehicles with the AIRMATIC

package: select a vehicle level that is suitable for the off-road terrain. To avoid

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damaging the vehicle, make sure there is always sufficient ground clearance.

RCheck that items of luggage and loads are

stowed safely and are well secured (Y page 337).

RAlways keep the engine running and in gear

when driving on a downhill gradient. Activate DSR (Y page 246).

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

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

RDrive with extreme care on unfamiliar off-

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

RLook out for obstacles, such as rocks,

holes, tree stumps and furrows.

RCheck the depth of water before fording

rivers and streams.

RWhen fording, do not stop and do not

switch off the engine.

ROn sand, drive quickly to overcome the

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

RDo not jump with the vehicle as this will

interrupt the vehicle's propulsion.

RAlways keep the engine running and in gear

when driving on a slope.

RDo not shift the automatic transmission to

transmission position N.

i Do not use the HOLD function when

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

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

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

X Engine oil level: check the engine oil level

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

fluid level and, if necessary, refill to the maximum (13 l) (Y page 177).

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

X Wheels and tires: check the tire tread

depth and tire pressure.

X Check for damage and remove any foreign

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

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

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

X Deactivate DSR (Y page 246). X Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package: lower the vehicle to a ride height suitable for the road conditions, e.g. to the highway/high-speed level.

X Clean the headlamps and rear lights and

check for damage.

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

remove any foreign objects.

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

X Check whether twigs or other parts of

plants have become trapped. These increase the risk of fire and can damage fuel pipes, brake hoses or the rubber bellows of the axle joints and propeller shafts.

X After the trip, examine without fail the

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

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

X If you detect strong vibrations after off-road

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

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

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

select a raised vehicle level.

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

terrain.

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189

Rdrive quickly to overcome the rolling

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

possible. Make sure that:

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

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

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

select a raised vehicle level.

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

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

190 Driving tips

Observe the following rules when driving over tree stumps, large stones and other obstacles: RRaise the vehicle level. RAvoid high engine speeds. RSelect shift range 1. RDrive very slowly. RDrive straight over the center of obstacles.

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

All vehicles (except vehicles with AMG bodystyling)

Steel-sprung vehicles Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package Highway level Raised level Vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package Highway level Off-road level 1
Off-road level 2
Off-road level 3
AMG vehicles Highway level (in sports mode with the AMG adaptive suspension system activated) Raised level

26°

25°

23° 30°

23° 26° 30° 31°

19°

23° 28°

23° 25° 28° 29°

21°

23°

24°

Vehicles with AMG bodystyling

Steel-sprung vehicles Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package Highway level Raised level

25°

25°

22° 28°

22° 27°

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191

Vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package Highway level Off-road level 1
Off-road level 2
Off-road level 3

22° 25° 28° 29°

22° 24° 27° 29°

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

RBefore tackling steep downhill gradients,

select shift range 1.

RDrive slowly. RAvoid high engine speeds – drive at an

appropriate engine speed (maximum 3,000 rpm).

RWhen driving down an incline, make use of

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

driving.

i Hill start assist will aid you when pulling

away on a hill. For more information, see "Hill start assist" (Y page 161).

Do not switch to transmission position N when driving off-road. If you try to brake the vehicle using the service brake, you could lose control of the vehicle. If the gradient is too steep for your vehicle, drive back down in reverse gear.

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

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

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

brow of a hill

Rthe vehicle from traveling too quickly down

the other side

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

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

RBefore tackling steep downhill gradients,

select shift range 1.

RActivate DSR. If this is not sufficient, brake gently. When doing so, make sure that the vehicle is facing in the direction of the line of fall.

RCheck that the brakes are working normally

after a long downhill stretch.

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

Driving systems Cruise control Important safety notes If you fail to adapt your driving style, cruise control can neither reduce the risk of an accident nor override the laws of physics. Cruise control cannot take into account the road, traffic and weather conditions. Cruise control is only an aid. You are responsible for the distance to the vehicle in front, for vehicle speed, for braking in good time and for staying in your lane. Do not use cruise control: Rin road and traffic conditions which do not allow you to maintain a constant speed e.g. in heavy traffic or on winding roads Ron slippery road surfaces. Braking or

accelerating could cause the drive wheels to lose traction and the vehicle could then skid

Rwhen there is poor visibility, e.g. due to fog,

heavy rain or snow

If there is a change of drivers, advise the new driver of the speed stored.

General notes Cruise control maintains a constant road speed for you. It brakes automatically in order to avoid exceeding the set speed. On long and steep downhill gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden or towing a trailer, you must select shift range 1, 2 or 3 in good time. By doing so, you will make use of the braking effect of the engine, which relieves the load

on the brake system and prevents the brakes from overheating and wearing too quickly. Use cruise control only if road and traffic conditions make it appropriate to maintain a steady speed for a prolonged period. You can store any road speed above 20 mph (30 km/h). i Cruise control should not be activated

during off-road driving.

Cruise control lever

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

stored speed

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

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

released.

Ryou are driving faster than 20mph

(30 km/h).

RESP® must be active, but not intervening. Rthe transmission must be in position D.

RDSR must be deactivated. Roff-road program 2 must be deactivated

(vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package).

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

X Accelerate the vehicle to the desired

speed.

X Briefly press the cruise control lever

up : or down ;.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

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

Storing or calling up a speed G WARNING If you call up the stored speed and it differs from the current speed, the vehicle accelerates or decelerates. If you do not know the stored speed, the vehicle could accelerate or brake unexpectedly. There is a risk of an accident.

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193

Pay attention to the road and traffic conditions before calling up the stored speed. If you do not know the stored speed, store the desired speed again.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you :.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

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

Setting a speed

Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has accelerated or braked to the speed set. X Press the cruise control lever up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed.

X To adjust the set speed in 1 mph

increments (1 km/h increments): briefly

194 Driving systems

press the cruise control lever up : or down ; to the pressure point. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up : or down ; the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

X To adjust the set speed in 5 mph

increments (10 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : or down ; to the pressure point. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up : or down ; the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

i Cruise control is not deactivated if you

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

Deactivating cruise control

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

forwards :.

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

(30 km/h).

RESP® intervenes or you deactivate ESP®.

Ryou activate DSR. Ryou shift the transmission to position N

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

speed stored is cleared.

DISTRONIC PLUS Important safety notes G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS does not react to: Rpeople or animals Rstationary obstacles on the road, e.g.

stopped or parked vehicles

Roncoming and crossing traffic As a result, DISTRONIC PLUS may neither give warnings nor intervene in such situations. There is a risk of an accident. Always pay careful attention to the traffic situation and be ready to brake. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS cannot always clearly identify other road users and complex traffic situations. In such cases, DISTRONIC PLUS may: Rgive an unnecessary warning and then

brake the vehicle

Rneither give a warning nor intervene Raccelerate unexpectedly There is a risk of an accident. Continue to drive carefully and be ready to brake, in particular when warned to do so by DISTRONIC PLUS. G WARNING DISTRONIC PLUS brakes your vehicle with up to 40% of the maximum braking force. If this

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195

braking force is insufficient, DISTRONIC PLUS warns you visually and audibly. There is a risk of an accident. In such cases, apply the brakes yourself and try to take evasive action.

! If DISTRONIC PLUS or the HOLD function

is activated, the vehicle brakes automatically in certain situations. To prevent damage to the vehicle, deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS and the HOLD function in the following or other similar situations: Rwhen towing the vehicle Rin the car wash

If you fail to adapt your driving style, DISTRONIC PLUS can neither reduce the risk of accident nor override the laws of physics. DISTRONIC PLUS cannot take into account the road, traffic and weather conditions. DISTRONIC PLUS is only an aid. You are responsible for the distance to the vehicle in front, for vehicle speed, for braking in good time and for staying in your lane. Do not use DISTRONIC PLUS: Rin road and traffic conditions which do not allow you to maintain a constant speed e.g. in heavy traffic or on winding roads Ron slippery road surfaces. Braking or

accelerating could cause the drive wheels to lose traction and the vehicle could then skid

Rwhen there is poor visibility, e.g. due to fog,

heavy rain or snow

DISTRONIC PLUS may not detect narrow vehicles driving in front, e.g. motorcycles, or vehicles driving on a different line. In particular, the detection of obstacles can be impaired if: Rdirt on the sensors or anything else

covering the sensors

Rsnow or heavy rain Rinterference by other radar sources Rstrong radar reflections, for example, in

parking garages

If DISTRONIC PLUS no longer detects a vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS may unexpectedly accelerate the vehicle to the stored speed. This speed may: Rbe too high if you are driving in a filter lane

or an exit lane

Rbe so high when driving in the right-hand lane that you overtake vehicles in the left- hand lane

Rbe so high when driving in the left-hand lane that you overtake vehicles in the right-hand lane

If there is a change of drivers, advise the new driver of the speed stored.

General notes DISTRONIC PLUS regulates the speed and automatically helps you maintain the distance to the vehicle detected in front. DISTRONIC PLUS brakes automatically so that the set speed is not exceeded. On long and steep downhill gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden or towing a trailer, you must select shift range 1, 2 or 3
in good time. By doing so, you will make use of the braking effect of the engine, This relieves the load on the brake system and prevents the brakes from overheating and wearing too quickly. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a slower-moving vehicle in front, your vehicle is braked in order to maintain the preset distance to the vehicle in front. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects that there is a risk of a collision, you will be warned visually and acoustically. DISTRONIC PLUS cannot prevent a collision without your intervention. An intermittent warning tone will then sound and the distance warning lamp will light up in the instrument cluster. Brake immediately in order to increase the distance to the vehicle in front or take evasive action provided it is safe to do so.

196 Driving systems

For DISTRONIC PLUS to assist you when driving, the radar sensor system must be: Ractivated (Y page 277) Roperational If there is no vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS operates in the same way as cruise control in the speed range between 20 mph (Canada: 30 km/h) and120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). If a vehicle is driving in front of you, it operates in the speed range between 0 mph (0 km/h) and 120 mph (Canada: 200 km/h). Do not use DISTRONIC PLUS while driving on roads with steep gradients. As DISTRONIC PLUS transmits radar waves, it can resemble the radar detectors of the responsible authorities. You can refer to the relevant chapter in the Operator's Manual if questions are asked about this. i USA only:

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

i Canada only: This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful 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 in any non-approved way.

Any unauthorized modification to this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Cruise control lever

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

stored speed

A To set the specified minimum distance

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

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

Rthe electric parking brake must be

released.

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

Rthe front-passenger door and rear doors

must be closed.

Roff-road program 2 must be deactivated

(vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package).

RDSR must be deactivated. Rthe vehicle must not skid.

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197

Activating while driving

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

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

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

X To adjust the set speed in 1 mph

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

or X To adjust the set speed in 5 mph

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

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

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

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

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

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

X To adjust the set speed in 1 mph

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

or X To adjust the set speed in 5 mph

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

If the vehicle in front of you is stationary, you can only activate DISTRONIC PLUS once your vehicle is stationary as well. i DISTRONIC PLUS can only be activated at under 20 mph (30km/h) if a vehicle in front has been detected. Therefore, the DISTRONIC PLUS distance display in the instrument cluster should be activated (Y page 272).

i You can use the cruise control lever to set

the stored speed and the control on the cruise control lever to set the specified minimum distance (Y page 200).

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Driving with DISTRONIC PLUS Pulling away and driving

Activating at the current speed/last stored speed G WARNING If you call up the stored speed and it differs from the current speed, the vehicle accelerates or decelerates. If you do not know the stored speed, the vehicle could accelerate or brake unexpectedly. There is a risk of an accident. Pay attention to the road and traffic conditions before calling up the stored speed. If you do not know the stored speed, store the desired speed again.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you :.

X Remove your foot from the accelerator

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

X If the vehicle in front pulls away: remove

your foot from the brake pedal.

X Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards

you ; or press it up : or down =.

or X Accelerate briefly.

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

If there is no vehicle in front, DISTRONIC PLUS operates in the same way as cruise control. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects that the vehicle in front has slowed down, it brakes your vehicle. In this way, the distance you have selected is maintained. If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a faster-moving vehicle in front, it increases the driving speed. However, the vehicle is only accelerated up to the speed you have stored. If you depress the brake, DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated unless your vehicle is stationary. Changing lanes If you change to the passing lane, DISTRONIC PLUS supports you when: Ryou are driving faster than 40mph

(60 km/h)

RDISTRONIC PLUS is maintaining the

distance to a vehicle in front

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

of collision

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

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

Vehicles with COMAND

Example: traffic circle i The following function is not operational

in all countries.

DISTRONIC PLUS uses additional information from your navigation system so that it can react appropriately to certain traffic situations. This is the case if, while following a vehicle, DISTRONIC PLUS is active and you: Rapproach or drive through a traffic circle Rapproach a T-intersection Rturn off at a highway exit Even if the vehicle in front leaves the detection range, DISTRONIC PLUS temporarily maintains the current driving speed and does not accelerate. This is based on the current map data in the navigation system. The current speed is maintained: Rapproximately 10 seconds before the

traffic circle/T intersection and

approximately 1.5 seconds when driving on a traffic circle.

Rapproximately 12 seconds before reaching

a highway exit and approximately 4 seconds after the highway exit.

Afterwards, the vehicle accelerates back to the set speed you specified. Stopping G WARNING When leaving the vehicle, even if it is braked only by DISTRONIC PLUS, it could roll away if: Rthere is a malfunction in the system or in

the voltage supply.

RDISTRONIC PLUS has been deactivated

with the cruise control lever, e.g. by a vehicle occupant or from outside the vehicle.

Rthe electrical system in the engine

compartment, the battery or the fuses have been tampered with.

Rthe battery is disconnected. Rthe accelerator pedal has been depressed,

e.g. by a vehicle occupant. There is a risk of an accident. If you wish to exit the vehicle, always turn off DISTRONIC PLUS and secure the vehicle against rolling away.

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

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i DISTRONIC PLUS is not deactivated if you

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

Setting the specified minimum distance

The electric parking brake automatically secures the vehicle if DISTRONIC PLUS is activated and: Rthe driver's door is open and the driver's

seat belt is unfastened.

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

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

Setting a speed

You can set the specified minimum distance for DISTRONIC PLUS by varying the time span between one and two seconds. With this function, you can set the minimum distance that DISTRONIC PLUS keeps to the vehicle in front, dependent on vehicle speed. You can see this distance in the multifunction display (Y page 202). X To increase: turn control ; in direction

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

X To decrease: turn control ; in

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

i Make sure that you maintain a sufficiently

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

Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment until the vehicle has accelerated or braked to the speed set. X Press the cruise control lever up : for a higher speed or down ; for a lower speed.

X To adjust the set speed in 1 mph

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

X To adjust the set speed in 5 mph

increments (10 km/h increments): briefly press the cruise control lever up : or down ; to the pressure point. Every time the cruise control lever is pressed up : or down ;, the last speed stored is increased or reduced.

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Deactivating DISTRONIC PLUS

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

forwards :.

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

you switch off the engine.

i DISTRONIC PLUS is not deactivated if you

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

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

the vehicle is automatically secured with the electric parking brake

Ryou are driving slower than 15 mph

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

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

(Y page 277)

Ryou pull the cruise control lever towards you in order to pull away and the front- passenger door or one of the rear doors is open

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

with the ON&OFFROAD package

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

Displays in the instrument cluster Displays in the speedometer

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

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Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated

Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated

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

the vehicle in front

= Specified minimum distance to the

vehicle in front; adjustable

? Own vehicle In the Assistance menu (Y page 272) of the on-board computer, you can select the distance display. X Select the Distance display function using the on-board computer (Y page 272).

In the Assistance menu of the on-board computer, you can also activate or deactivate PRE-SAFE® Brake (Y page 272).

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

vehicle in front; adjustable ? Vehicle in front, if detected In the Assistance menu (Y page 272)of the on-board computer, you can select the distance display. X Select the Distance display function using the on-board computer (Y page 272).

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

Tips for driving with DISTRONIC PLUS General notes Pay particular attention in the following traffic situations: Rcornering, going into and coming out of a

bend

Rvehicles traveling on a different line Rother vehicles changing lanes Rnarrow vehicles Robstructions and stationary vehicles Rcrossing vehicles In such situations, brake if necessary. DISTRONIC PLUS is then deactivated.

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Cornering, going into and coming out of a bend

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

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

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

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

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

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Crossing vehicles

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

Level control (vehicles with the ON&OFFROAD package) Important safety notes G WARNING When the vehicle is being lowered, people could become trapped if their limbs are between the vehicle body and the wheels or underneath the vehicle. There is a risk of injury. Make sure no one is underneath the vehicle or in the immediate vicinity of the wheel arches when the vehicle is being lowered. G WARNING When you drive with the vehicle raised, the driving characteristics could be impaired by the vehicle's raised center of gravity. The vehicle could rollover more easily, for example on a bend. There is a risk of an accident. Always select as low a vehicle level as possible and adjust your driving style. G WARNING When you drive with the chassis lowered or raised, the vehicle's braking and driving

characteristics can be significantly impaired. You could also exceed the permissible vehicle height if the chassis is raised. There is a risk of an accident. Adjust the vehicle level before pulling away. G WARNING Due to the high center of gravity, the vehicle may start to skid and roll over in the event of an abrupt steering maneuver and/or when the vehicle's speed is not adapted to the road conditions. There is a risk of an accident. Always adapt your speed and driving style to the vehicle's driving characteristics and to the prevailing road and weather conditions.

! When driving on extremely rough terrain,

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

RUtility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles. Failure to operate this vehicle safely may result in an accident, rollover of the vehicle, and severe or fatal injury.

RIn a rollover crash, an unbelted person is

significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt. You and all vehicle occupants should always wear your seat belts.

Level control adapts the vehicle level automatically to the current operating and driving situation. This results in reduced fuel consumption and improved handling. Make changes to the vehicle level while the vehicle is in motion. This enables the vehicle to adjust to the new level as quickly as possible. The vehicle level may change visibly if you park the vehicle and the outside temperature changes. If the temperature drops, the vehicle level is lower; with an increase in temperature, the vehicle level rises.

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If you unlock the vehicle or open a door, the vehicle begins to compensate for load discrepancies while still parked. However, for significant level changes, such as after the vehicle has been stationary for a long period, the engine must be on. For safety reasons, the vehicle is only lowered when the doors are closed. Lowering is interrupted if a door is opened, and it continues once the door has been closed. For information about driving off-road, see (Y page 187).

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

normal roads

Roff-road level 1 for driving on easily

negotiable off-road terrain

Roff-road level 2 for driving on normal off-

road terrain

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

The individual vehicle levels differ from highway level as follows: Rhighway level: +/–0 in (+/–0 mm) Rhigh-speed level: –0.6 in (–15 mm) Roff-road level 1: + 1.2 in (+30 mm) Roff-road level 2: + 2.3 in (+60 mm)