1990-2018 Mercedes G Class SUV Driving and parking -> Driving systems User Manual
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Driving and parking -> Driving systems for Your Mercedes G Class SUV Third Generation (1990-2018)

R
Avoid high engine speeds – drive at an
appropriate engine speed (maximum
3,000 rpm).
R
When driving down an incline, make use of
the engine's braking effect. Observe the
engine speed; do not overrev the engine.
i
Further information on the maximum
engine speed: (Y page 206).
R
Select a shift range appropriate to the
gradient.
R
Before tackling steep downhill gradients,
select shift range 1(Y page 150).
R
Always check the brakes after driving off-
road.
i
Hill start assist will aid you when pulling
away on a hill.
For more information, see "Hill start assist"
(Y page 141).
Maximum gradient-climbing capability
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 detects this and brakes the wheels
accordingly. The rear wheel torque is
increased, making it easier to drive off.
Always observe the maximum gradient
climbing ability values (Y page 351).
Hilltops
When driving on an uphill gradient, reduce
pressure slightly on the accelerator
immediately before reaching the top of the hill
(do not shift the transmission to position N).
Use the vehicle's own impetus to drive over
the top of the hill.
This style of driving prevents:
R
the vehicle from lifting off the ground on the
brow of a hill
R
loss of traction
R
the vehicle from traveling too quickly down
the other side
Driving downhill
R
Before tackling steep downhill gradients,
select shift range 1(Y page 150).
This way you use the engine's braking
effect to reduce the speed. 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.
R
Observe the notes on driving in
mountainous terrain (Y page 168).
R
Drive slowly.
R
Do 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 roll over.
R
Check that the brakes are working normally
after a long downhill stretch.
i
The special off-road ABS setting
(Y page 61) enables repeated, brief,
precise locking of the front wheels, which
leads to the wheels digging into the loose
ground. Note that when the front wheels
are fully braked, they slide easily over the
surface of the ground, making it difficult to
steer.
Driving systems
Cruise Control
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
The brake pedal moves when cruise control
brakes the vehicle. A foot in the area under
the brake pedal could become trapped. The
movement of the pedal, and therefore the
168
Driving systems
Driving and parking
vehicle's ability to brake, may be restricted by
objects in the area under the brake. There is
a risk of an accident and injury.
Do not place your foot under the brake pedal.
Keep the area under the brake pedal free from
obstructions.
If you fail to adapt your driving style, cruise
control can neither reduce the risk of
accident nor override the laws of physics.
Cruise control cannot take account of road,
weather and traffic conditions. Cruise control
is only an aid. You are responsible for the
distance to the vehicle in front, for vehicle
speed and for braking in good time. Adjust
your driving style to the traffic conditions.
Only engage cruise control when the current
road, weather and traffic conditions permit it
to be done safely. Drive carefully and
maintain a suitable distance to the vehicle in
front.
Do not use cruise control:
R
in traffic conditions that do not allow you
to drive at a constant speed, e.g. heavy
traffic, on winding roads or off-road
R
on slippery road surfaces. Braking or
accelerating could cause the drive wheels
to lose traction and the vehicle could then
skid
R
when there is poor visibility, e.g. due to fog,
heavy rain or snow
General notes
Cruise control maintains a constant road
speed for you. On long and steep downhill
gradients, especially if the vehicle is laden,
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
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
You can operate cruise control and variable
SPEEDTRONIC with the cruise control lever.
When you activate cruise control, the stored
speed is shown in the multifunction display
for five seconds.
The LIM indicator lamp on the cruise control
lever indicates which system you have
selected:
R
LIM indicator lamp off: cruise control is
selected.
R
LIM indicator lamp on: variable
SPEEDTRONIC is selected.
Driving systems
169
Driving and parking
Z
Activation conditions
To activate cruise control, all of the following
activation conditions must be fulfilled:
R
the parking brake must be released.
R
you are driving faster than 20 mph
(30 km/h).
R
ESP
®
must be active, but not intervening.
R
the transmission must be in position D.
Selecting cruise control
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
X
Check whether LIM indicator lamp ; is off.
If it is off, cruise control is already selected.
If it is not, press the cruise control lever in
the direction of arrow A.
LIM indicator lamp ; in the cruise control
lever goes out. Cruise control is selected.
Storing and maintaining the current
speed
Storing and maintaining
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
You can store the current speed if you are
driving faster than 20 mph (30 km/h).
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.
i
Cruise control may be unable to maintain
the stored speed on uphill and downhill
gradients. The stored speed is resumed
when the gradient levels out. Cruise control
maintains the stored speed on downhill
gradients by automatically applying the
brakes.
Calling up the last speed stored
G
WARNING
If you call up the stored speed and it is lower
than the current speed, the vehicle
170
Driving systems
Driving and parking
decelerates. If you do not know the stored
speed, the vehicle could decelerate
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.
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
X
Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards
you =.
X
Remove your foot from the accelerator
pedal.
Cruise control is activated and adjusts the
vehicle's speed to the last speed stored.
i
If no speed is stored, cruise control stores
the current speed and maintains it.
Calling up the last speed stored
Storing and maintaining
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
You can store the current speed if you are
driving faster than 20 mph (30 km/h).
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.
i
Cruise control may be unable to maintain
the stored speed on uphill and downhill
gradients. The stored speed is resumed
when the gradient levels out. Cruise control
maintains the stored speed on downhill
gradients by automatically applying the
brakes.
Calling up the last speed stored
G
WARNING
If you call up the stored speed and it is lower
than the current speed, the vehicle
decelerates. If you do not know the stored
Driving systems
171
Driving and parking
Z
speed, the vehicle could decelerate
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.
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
X
Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards
you =.
X
Remove your foot from the accelerator
pedal.
Cruise control is activated and adjusts the
vehicle's speed to the last speed stored.
i
If no speed is stored, cruise control stores
the current speed and maintains it.
Setting a speed
Adjusting
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
Keep in mind that it may take a brief moment
until the vehicle accelerates or decelerates to
the set speed.
X
To increase the speed: press the cruise
control lever up :.
X
To decrease the speed: press the cruise
control lever down ?.
X
Keep the cruise control lever pressed until
the desired speed is reached.
X
Release the cruise control lever.
The new speed is stored.
172
Driving systems
Driving and parking
Making adjustments in 1 mph increments
(1 km/h increments in Canada)
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
X
Briefly press the cruise control lever
up : for a higher speed or down ? for a
lower speed.
The last speed stored is increased or
reduced.
Adjusting in 5 mph increments (10 km/h
increments):
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
X
Briefly press the cruise control lever
up : or down ? to beyond the pressure
point.
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
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
There are several ways to deactivate cruise
control:
X
Briefly press the cruise control lever
forwards B.
or
X
Brake.
Driving systems
173
Driving and parking
Z
or
X
Briefly press the cruise control lever in the
direction of arrow A.
Variable SPEEDTRONIC is selected. LIM
indicator lamp ; in the cruise control lever
lights up.
Cruise control is automatically deactivated if:
R
you apply the parking brake
R
you are driving at less than 20 mph
(30 km/h)
R
ESP
®
intervenes or you deactivate ESP
®
R
you shift the transmission to position N
while driving
i
The last speed stored is cleared when you
switch off the engine.
SPEEDTRONIC
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
If you rest your foot on the brake pedal while
driving, the braking system can overheat. This
increases the stopping distance and can even
cause the braking system to fail. There is a
risk of an accident.
Never use the brake pedal as a footrest. Never
depress the brake pedal and the accelerator
pedal at the same time.
!
Depressing the brake pedal constantly
results in excessive and premature wear to
the brake pads.
If you fail to adapt your driving style,
SPEEDTRONIC can neither reduce the risk of
accident nor override the laws of physics.
SPEEDTRONIC cannot take account of road,
weather and traffic conditions.
SPEEDTRONIC 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 lane. Only engage
SPEEDTRONIC when the current road,
weather and traffic conditions permit it to be
done safely. Drive carefully and maintain a
suitable distance to the vehicle in front.
General notes
SPEEDTRONIC brakes automatically so that
you do not exceed 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. If
you need additional braking, depress the
brake pedal repeatedly rather than
continuously.
i
The speed indicated in the speedometer
may differ slightly from the limit speed
stored.
Cruise control lever
:
To store the current speed or a higher
speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To call up the last speed stored
?
To store the current speed or a lower
speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate variable SPEEDTRONIC
You can operate cruise control and variable
SPEEDTRONIC with the cruise control lever.
174
Driving systems
Driving and parking
Calling up the last speed stored
Calling up the last speed stored
:
To activate or increase speed
;
LIM indicator lamp
=
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
?
To activate or reduce speed
A
To switch between cruise control and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
B
To deactivate cruise control
If you fail to adapt your driving style,
SPEEDTRONIC can neither reduce the risk of
accident nor override the laws of physics.
SPEEDTRONIC cannot take account of road,
weather and traffic conditions.
SPEEDTRONIC 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. Only engage
SPEEDTRONIC when the current road,
weather and traffic conditions permit it to be
done safely. Drive carefully and maintain a
suitable distance to the vehicle in front.
X
Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards
you =.
i
If you call up the stored speed and your
current speed is higher, you will hear a
warning tone. The
Limit ExceededLimit Exceeded
message appears in the multifunction
display.
i
If no speed is stored, variable
SPEEDTRONIC stores the current speed
and maintains it.
Deactivating variable SPEEDTRONIC
There are several ways to deactivate variable
SPEEDTRONIC:
X
Briefly press the cruise control lever
forwards B.
or
X
Briefly press the cruise control lever in the
direction of arrow A.
LIM indicator lamp ; in the cruise control
lever goes out. Variable SPEEDTRONIC is
deactivated.
Cruise control is selected.
It is not possible to deactivate variable
SPEEDTRONIC by braking.
Variable SPEEDTRONIC is deactivated
automatically when you depress the
accelerator pedal beyond the pressure point
(kickdown), but only if your current speed
does not differ by more than 12 mph from the
stored speed.
DISTRONIC PLUS
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
DISTRONIC PLUS does not react to:
R
people or animals
R
stationary obstacles on the road, e.g.
stopped or parked vehicles
R
oncoming and crossing traffic
176
Driving systems
Driving and parking
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:
R
give an unnecessary warning and then
brake the vehicle
R
neither give a warning nor intervene
R
accelerate 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
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.
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.
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 account of
road, weather and traffic 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 lane. Only engage
DISTRONIC PLUS when the current road,
weather and traffic conditions permit it to be
done safely, and adapt your driving style
accordingly. Drive carefully and maintain a
suitable distance to the vehicle in front.
If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a risk of collision
but cannot sufficiently decelerate the vehicle
in order to maintain the set distance, 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 from the vehicle in
front, or take evasive action, provided it is
safe to do so.
DISTRONIC PLUS may not detect narrow
vehicles driving in front, e.g. motorcycles, or
vehicles driving on a different line. Therefore,
always pay attention to traffic conditions
even when DISTRONIC PLUS is activated.
Otherwise, you may fail to recognize dangers
in time, cause an accident and injure yourself
and others.
In particular, the detection of obstacles can
be impaired if there is:
R
the sensor is dirty or covered
R
snow or heavy rain
R
interference by other radar sources
R
there is the possibility of strong radar
reflections, for example, in parking
garages.
If DISTRONIC PLUS is activated, the vehicle
brakes automatically in certain situations.
This can happen unexpectedly, especially
when towing or in a car wash. There is a risk
of an accident. In these or similar situations,
deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS.
If you want DISTRONIC PLUS to assist you,
the following activation conditions must be
Driving systems
177
Driving and parking
Z
fulfilled (Y page 179) and the radar sensor
system must be operational.
General notes
DISTRONIC PLUS regulates the speed and
automatically helps you maintain the
distance to the vehicle detected in front.
DISTRONIC PLUS brakes automatically so
that the set speed is not exceeded.
On long and steep downhill gradients,
especially if the vehicle is laden or towing a
trailer, you must select shift range 1, 2 or 3
in good time. By doing so, you will make use
of the braking effect of the engine, which
relieves the load on the brake system and
prevents the brakes from overheating and
wearing too quickly.
If DISTRONIC PLUS detects a slower-moving
vehicle in front, your vehicle is braked in order
to maintain the preset distance to the vehicle
in front.
If there is no vehicle in front, DISTRONIC
PLUS operates in the same way as cruise
control in the speed range between 20 mph
(Canada: 30 km/h) and120 mph (Canada:
200 km/h). If a vehicle is driving in front of
you, it operates in the speed range between
0 mph (0 km/h) and 120 mph (Canada:
200 km/h).
Do not use DISTRONIC PLUS while driving on
roads with steep gradients.
As DISTRONIC PLUS transmits radar waves,
it can resemble the radar detectors of the
responsible authorities. You can refer to the
relevant chapter in the Operator's Manual if
questions are asked about this.
i
USA only:
This device has been approved by the FCC
as a “Vehicular Radar System”. The radar
sensor is intended for use in an automotive
radar system only. Removal, tampering, or
altering of the device will void any
warranties, and is not permitted by the
FCC. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in
any non-approved way.
Any unauthorized modification to this
device could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
i
Canada only: This device complies with
RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause interference,
and
2. this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
Removal, tampering, or altering of the
device will void any warranties, and is not
permitted. Do not tamper with, alter, or use
the device in any non-approved way.
Any unauthorized modification to this
device could void the user's authority to
operate the equipment.
Cruise control lever
:
To activate or increase speed
;
To set the specified minimum distance
=
LIM indicator lamp
?
To activate at the current speed/last
stored speed
A
To activate or reduce speed
B
To switch between DISTRONIC PLUS and
variable SPEEDTRONIC
C
To deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS
With the cruise control lever, you can operate
DISTRONIC PLUS and variable
SPEEDTRONIC.
178
Driving systems
Driving and parking
X
To switch between variable
SPEEDTRONIC and DISTRONIC PLUS:
press the cruise control lever in the
direction of arrow B.
LIM indicator lamp = on the cruise control
lever indicates which function you have
selected:
R
LIM indicator lamp =
= off: DISTRONIC
PLUS is selected.
R
LIM indicator lamp =
= on: variable
SPEEDTRONIC is selected.
Activating DISTRONIC PLUS
Activation conditions
In order to activate DISTRONIC PLUS, the
following conditions must be fulfilled:
R
the engine must be started. It may take up
to two minutes after pulling away before
DISTRONIC PLUS is operational.
R
the parking brake must be released.
R
the differential lock must be deactivated.
R
ESP
®
must be active, but not intervening.
R
the transmission must be in position D.
R
the driver's door must be closed when you
shift from P to D or your seat belt must be
fastened.
R
the front-passenger door and rear doors
must be closed.
R
the vehicle must not skid.
R
the DISTRONIC PLUS function must be
selected (Y page 178).
R
the transfer case must be in the HIGH
RANGE transmission position.
R
the vehicle must not be on an uphill or
downhill gradient of more than 22-25%.
R
the radar sensor must be free from dirt
(Y page 291).
Activating while driving
When driving at speeds below 20 mph
(30 km/h) you can activate DISTRONIC PLUS
if the vehicle in front has been detected and
is shown in the multifunction display. If the
vehicle in front is no longer detected and
displayed, DISTRONIC PLUS switches off and
a tone sounds.
X
Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards
you ?, or press it up : or down A.
DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.
X
Press the cruise control lever up : or
down A repeatedly until the desired speed
is set.
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.
i
If you do not fully release the accelerator
pedal, the
DISTRONIC PLUS PassiveDISTRONIC 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.
Driving systems
179
Driving and parking
Z
Switching on while stationary
This function may be useful if you want to
keep up with the traffic flow, e.g. at the end
of a tailback.
You can only activate DISTRONIC PLUS if:
R
the vehicle in front and
R
your vehicle are stationary
X
Briefly pull the cruise control lever towards
you ?, or press it up : or down A.
DISTRONIC PLUS is selected.
i
DISTRONIC PLUS can be activated at a
standstill at under 20 mph (30 km/h) only
if a vehicle in front has been detected.
Therefore, the DISTRONIC PLUS distance
display in the instrument cluster should be
activated (Y page 213).
X
Keep the cruise control lever pressed
up : or down A until the desired speed
is set.
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 183).
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.
Driving with DISTRONIC PLUS
Pulling away and driving
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 A.
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 that the vehicle
in front is driving faster, it accelerates your
vehicle, but only up to the speed you have
stored.
If you depress the brake, DISTRONIC PLUS is
deactivated unless your vehicle is stationary.
180
Driving systems
Driving and parking
Changing lanes
If you change to the passing lane, DISTRONIC
PLUS supports you when:
R
you are driving faster than 40 mph
(60 km/h).
R
DISTRONIC PLUS is maintaining the
distance to a vehicle in front.
R
you switch on the appropriate turn signal.
R
DISTRONIC PLUS does not detect a danger
of collision.
If these conditions are fulfilled, your vehicle
is accelerated. Acceleration will be
interrupted if changing lanes takes too long
or if the distance between your vehicle and
the vehicle in front becomes too small.
i
When changing lanes, DISTRONIC PLUS
monitors the left lane on left-hand drive
vehicles and the right lane on right-hand
drive vehicles.
Stopping
G
WARNING
When leaving the vehicle, even if it is braked
only by DISTRONIC PLUS, it could roll away if:
R
there is a malfunction in the system or in
the voltage supply.
R
DISTRONIC PLUS has been deactivated
with the cruise control lever, e.g. by a
vehicle occupant or from outside the
vehicle.
R
the electrical system in the engine
compartment, the battery or the fuses have
been tampered with.
R
the battery is disconnected.
R
the 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.
i
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.
On steep uphill or downhill inclines or if there
is a malfunction, the transmission may also
automatically be shifted into position P.
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.
Driving systems
181
Driving and parking
Z
Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is
deactivated
Distance display when DISTRONIC PLUS is
deactivated
:
Vehicle in front, if detected
;
Distance indicator, current distance to
the vehicle in front
=
Specified minimum distance to the
vehicle in front; adjustable
?
Own vehicle
You can select the distance display in the
Assistance menu (Y page 213) of the on-
board computer.
X
Select the
Distance DisplayDistance Display function
using the on-board computer.
Display when DISTRONIC PLUS is
activated
Distance display with DISTRONIC PLUS activated
in the multifunction display
:
DISTRONIC PLUS activated
;
Own vehicle
=
Specified minimum distance to the
vehicle in front; adjustable
?
Vehicle in front, if detected
In the Assistance menu (Y page 213) of the
on-board computer, you can select the
distance display.
X
Select the
Distance DisplayDistance Display function
using the on-board computer
(Y page 213).
You will see the stored speed for about five
seconds when you activate DISTRONIC PLUS.
Setting a speed
:
To store the current speed or a higher
speed
;
To store the current speed or a lower
speed
X
Press the cruise control lever up : for a
higher speed or down ; for a lower speed.
X
Keep the cruise control lever pressed until
the desired speed is reached.
X
Release the cruise control lever.
The new speed is stored. DISTRONIC PLUS
is activated and adjusts the vehicle's speed
to the new speed stored.
X
To adjust the set speed in 1 mph
increments (1 km/h increments): briefly
182
Driving systems
Driving and parking
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
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
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 213).
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 the
minimum distance to the vehicle in front as
required by law. Adjust the distance to the
vehicle in front if necessary.
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.
or
X
Briefly press the cruise control lever in the
direction of arrow =.
Variable SPEEDTRONIC is selected. LIM
indicator lamp ; in the cruise control lever
lights up.
When you deactivate DISTRONIC PLUS, you
will see the
DISTRONIC PLUS OffDISTRONIC PLUS Off message
in the multifunction display for approximately
five seconds.
Driving systems
183
Driving and parking
Z
i
The last speed stored remains stored until
you switch off the engine.
DISTRONIC PLUS is automatically
deactivated if:
R
you engage the parking brake.
R
you are driving more slowly than 15 mph
(25 km/h) and there is no longer a vehicle
in front, or if the vehicle in front is no longer
detected.
R
ESP
®
intervenes or you deactivate ESP
®
.
R
the transmission is in the P, R or N position.
R
you 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.
R
the vehicle has skidded.
If DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated, you will
hear a warning tone. You will see the
DISTRONIC PLUS OffDISTRONIC PLUS Off message in the
multifunction display for approximately five
seconds.
In the Assistance menu (Y page 213) of the
on-board computer, you can select the
distance display.
Tips for driving with DISTRONIC PLUS
General notes
The following contains descriptions of certain
road and traffic conditions in which you must
be particularly attentive. In such situations,
brake if necessary. DISTRONIC PLUS is then
deactivated.
Cornering, going into and coming out of a
bend
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 may not detect vehicles
traveling on a different line. The distance to
the vehicle in front will be too short.
Other vehicles changing lanes
184
Driving systems
Driving and parking
DISTRONIC PLUS has not detected the
vehicle cutting in yet. The distance to this
vehicle will be too short.
Narrow vehicles
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 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.
Crossing vehicles
DISTRONIC PLUS may detect vehicles that
are crossing your lane by mistake. Activating
DISTRONIC PLUS at traffic lights with
crossing traffic, for example, could cause
your vehicle to pull away unintentionally.
Blind Spot Assist
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
Blind Spot Assist does not react to:
R
vehicles overtaken too closely on the side,
placing them in the blind spot area
R
vehicles approaching and driving by with a
speed difference of more than
approximately 11 km/h
As a result, Blind Spot Assist may not give
warnings in such situations. There is a risk of
an accident.
Always observe the traffic conditions
carefully, and maintain a safe lateral distance.
G
WARNING
Blind Spot Assist does not react to:
R
vehicles overtaken too closely on the side,
placing them in the blind spot area
R
vehicles approaching and driving by with a
speed difference of more than 6.8 mph
(11 km/h)
As a result, Blind Spot Assist may not give
warnings in such situations. There is a risk of
an accident.
Driving systems
185
Driving and parking
Z
Always observe the traffic conditions
carefully, and maintain a safe lateral distance.
Blind Spot Assist is only an aid. It may fail to
detect some vehicles and is no substitute for
attentive driving.
In particular, the detection of obstacles can
be impaired if there is:
R
dirt on the sensors or anything else
covering the sensors.
R
visibility is poor, e.g. due to fog, heavy rain
or snow.
R
there is a narrow vehicle traveling in front,
e.g. a motorcycle or bicycle.
R
the road has very wide lanes.
R
the road has narrow lanes.
R
you are not driving in the middle of the lane.
R
there are barriers or other road boundaries.
i
USA only:
This device has been approved by the FCC
as a “Vehicular Radar System”. The radar
sensor is intended for use in an automotive
radar system only. Removal, tampering, or
altering of the device will void any
warranties, and is not permitted by the
FCC. Do not tamper with, alter, or use in
any non-approved way.
Any unauthorized modification to this
device could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.
General notes
Blind Spot Assist uses a radar sensor system
to monitor both the left and right sides of your
vehicle. It supports you from a speed of
approximately 20 mph (30 km/h). A warning
display in the exterior mirrors draws your
attention to vehicles detected in the
monitored area. If you then switch on the
corresponding turn signal to change lane, you
will also receive an optical and audible
collision warning. For this purpose, Blind Spot
Assist uses sensors in the rear bumper.
Monitoring range of the sensors
Blind Spot Assist monitors the area up to
10 ft (3 m) behind your vehicle and directly
next to your vehicle, as shown in the diagram.
If the lanes are narrow, vehicles driving in the
lane beyond the lane next to your vehicle may
be indicated, especially if the vehicles are not
driving in the middle of their lane. This may
be the case if the vehicles are driving on the
inner side of their lane.
Due to the nature of the system:
R
warnings may be issued in error when
driving close to crash barriers or similar
solid lane borders.
R
the warning is canceled when driving for an
extended period next to long vehicles, such
as trucks.
The two sensors for Blind Spot Assist are
integrated into the sides of the rear bumper.
Make sure that the bumper is free from dirt,
ice or slush around the sensors. The rear
sensors must not be covered, for example by
bicycle racks or overhanging loads. Following
a severe impact or in the event of damage to
the bumpers, have the function of the radar
sensors checked at a qualified specialist
workshop. Blind Spot Assist may otherwise
not work properly.
186
Driving systems
Driving and parking
Indicator and warning display
G
WARNING
Blind Spot Assist does not react to:
R
vehicles overtaken too closely on the side,
placing them in the blind spot area
R
vehicles approaching and driving by with a
speed difference of more than 6.8 mph
(11 km/h)
As a result, Blind Spot Assist may not give
warnings in such situations. There is a risk of
an accident.
Always observe the traffic conditions
carefully, and maintain a safe lateral distance.
:
Yellow indicator lamp/red warning lamp
When Active Blind Spot Assist is activated,
indicator lamp : in the exterior mirrors lights
up yellow at speeds of up to
20 mph(30 km/h). At speeds above 20 mph
(30 km/h) the indicator lamp goes out and
Blind Spot Assist is operational.
If a vehicle is detected within the monitoring
range of Blind Spot Assist at speeds above
20 mph (30 km/h), warning lamp : on the
corresponding side lights up red. This warning
is always emitted when a vehicle enters the
blind spot monitoring range from behind or
from the side. When you overtake a vehicle,
the warning only occurs if the difference in
speed is less than 7 mph (12 km/h).
The yellow indicator lamp goes out if reverse
gear is engaged. In this event, Blind Spot
Assist is no longer active.
The brightness of the indicator/warning
lamps is adjusted automatically according to
the ambient light.
Collision warning
:
Yellow indicator lamp/red warning lamp
If a vehicle is detected in the monitoring range
of Blind Spot Assist and you switch on the
corresponding turn signal, a double warning
tone sounds. Red warning lamp : flashes. If
the turn signal remains on, vehicles detected
are indicated by the flashing of red warning
lamp :. There are no further warning tones.
Switching on Blind Spot Assist
:
Yellow indicator lamp/red warning lamp
Driving systems
187
Driving and parking
Z
X
Make sure that Blind Spot Assist is
activated in the on-board computer
(Y page 213).
X
Turn the SmartKey to position
2 (Y page 139) in the ignition lock.
Warning lamps : in the exterior mirrors
light up red for approximately
1.5 seconds and then turn yellow.
HOLD function
General notes
The HOLD function can assist the driver in the
following situations:
R
when pulling away, especially on steep
slopes
R
when maneuvering on steep slopes
R
when waiting in traffic
The vehicle is kept stationary without the
driver having to depress the brake pedal.
The braking effect is canceled and the HOLD
function deactivated when you depress the
accelerator pedal to pull away.
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.
Activation conditions
You can activate the HOLD function if:
R
the vehicle is stationary.
R
the engine is running or it has been
switched off by the ECO start/stop
function (AMG vehicles).
R
the engine is running.
R
the driver's door is closed or your seat belt
is fastened.
R
the transmission is in position D, R or N.
R
DISTRONIC PLUS is deactivated.
Activating the HOLD function
The vehicle's brakes are applied when the
HOLD function is activated. For this reason,
deactivate the HOLD function while in the car
wash or while towing.
X
Make sure that the activation conditions
are met.
X
Depress the brake pedal.
X
Quickly depress the brake pedal further
until ë appears in the multifunction
display.
The HOLD function is activated. You can
release the brake pedal.
i
If depressing the brake pedal the first
time does not activate the HOLD function,
wait briefly and then try again.
Deactivating the HOLD function
G
WARNING
When leaving the vehicle, it can still roll away
despite being braked by the HOLD function if:
R
there is a malfunction in the system or in
the voltage supply.
R
the HOLD function has been deactivated by
pressing the accelerator pedal or the brake
pedal, e.g. by a vehicle occupant.
R
the electrical system in the engine
compartment, the battery or the fuses have
been tampered with.
R
the battery is disconnected
There is a risk of an accident.
If you wish to exit the vehicle, always turn off
the HOLD function and secure the vehicle
against rolling away.
The HOLD function is deactivated
automatically if:
R
you accelerate and the transmission is in
position D or R.
R
you shift the transmission to position P.
188
Driving systems
Driving and parking
R
you depress the brake pedal again with a
certain amount of pressure until ë
disappears from the multifunction display.
R
you activate DISTRONIC PLUS.
On steep uphill or downhill gradients or if
there is a malfunction, the transmission may
also be automatically shifted into position P.
4MATIC (permanent four-wheel drive)
!
Never tow the vehicle with one axle
raised. This may damage the transfer case.
Damage of this sort is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. All
wheels must remain either on the ground
or be fully raised. Observe the instructions
for towing the vehicle with all wheels in full
contact with the ground.
!
When testing the parking brake, operate
the vehicle only briefly (for a maximum of
ten seconds) on a brake test dynamometer.
When doing this, turn the SmartKey to
position 0 or 1 in the ignition. Failure to do
this can cause damage to the drive train or
the brake system.
!
A function or performance test should
only be carried out on a two-axle
dynamometer. Before you operate the
vehicle on such a dynamometer, please
consult a qualified workshop. You could
otherwise damage the drive train or the
brake system.
4MATIC ensures that all four wheels are
permanently driven. Together with ESP
®
and
4ETS, it improves the traction of your vehicle
whenever a drive wheel spins due to
insufficient grip.
If a drive wheel spins due to insufficient grip:
R
Only depress the accelerator pedal as far
as necessary when pulling away.
R
Accelerate less when driving.
If you fail to adapt your driving style, 4MATIC
can neither reduce the risk of accident nor
override the laws of physics. 4MATIC cannot
take account of road, weather and traffic
conditions. 4MATIC 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 lane. Only engage
4MATIC when the current road, weather and
traffic conditions permit it to be done safely,
and adapt your driving style accordingly.
Drive carefully and maintain a suitable
distance to the vehicle in front.
i
In wintry driving conditions, the maximum
effect of 4MATIC can only be achieved if
you use winter tires (M+S tires), with snow
chains if necessary.
For information about driving off-road, see
(Y page 164).
PARKTRONIC
Important safety notes
!
When parking, pay particular attention to
objects above or below the sensors, such
as flower pots or trailer drawbars.
PARKTRONIC does not detect such objects
when they are in the immediate vicinity of
the vehicle. You could damage the vehicle
or the objects.
The sensors may not detect snow and other
objects that absorb ultrasonic waves.
Ultrasonic sources such as an automatic
car wash, the compressed-air brakes on a
truck or a pneumatic drill could cause
PARKTRONIC to malfunction.
PARKTRONIC may not function correctly on
uneven terrain.
PARKTRONIC is an electronic parking aid with
ultrasonic sensors. It indicates visually and
audibly the distance between your vehicle
and an object.
PARKTRONIC is only an aid. It is not a
replacement for your attention to your
immediate surroundings. You are always
responsible for safe maneuvering, parking
and exiting a parking space. Ensure that the
areas in front, behind and to the side of the
Driving systems
189
Driving and parking
Z
vehicle are safe before maneuvering, parking
or pulling away. There must not be any
persons, animals or objects in the area in
which you are maneuvering.
PARKTRONIC does not take into account any
persons or objects located below or above
the detection range. As a result,
PARKTRONIC cannot warn you about objects
in this area.
PARKTRONIC is activated automatically when
you:
R
switch on the ignition
R
shift the transmission to position D, R or N
R
release the parking brake
PARKTRONIC is deactivated at speeds above
11 mph (18 km/h). It is reactivated at lower
speeds.
PARKTRONIC monitors the area around your
vehicle using six sensors in the front bumper
and four sensors in the rear bumper.
Range of the sensors
General notes
:
Example: sensors in the front bumper,
left-hand side
Side view
Top view
The sensors must be free from dirt, ice or
slush. Otherwise, they may not function
correctly. Clean the sensors regularly, taking
care not to scratch or damage them
(Y page 291).
Front sensors
Center Approximately 40 in
(approximately 100 cm
from brush guard)
Corners Approximately 24 in
(approximately 60cm)
Rear sensors
Center Approximately 36 in
(approximately 90 cm)
from spare wheel
Corners Approximately 32 in
(approximately 80 cm)
Minimum distance
Center Approximately 8 in
(approximately 20 cm)
Corners Approximately 8 in
(approximately 20 cm)
If there is an obstacle within this range, the
relevant warning displays light up and a
warning tone sounds. If the distance falls
below the minimum, the distance may no
longer be shown.
190
Driving systems
Driving and parking
Warning displays
Warning display for the front area
:
Segments on the left-hand side of the
vehicle
;
Segments on the right-hand side of the
vehicle
=
Segments showing operational readiness
The warning displays show the distance
between the sensors and the obstacle. The
warning display for the front area is located
on the dashboard above the center air vents.
The warning display for the rear area is
located on the headliner in the rear
compartment.
The warning display for each side of the
vehicle is divided into five yellow and two red
segments. PARKTRONIC is operational if
yellow segments showing operational
readiness = light up.
The selected transmission position and the
direction in which the vehicle is rolling
determine which warning display is active
when the engine is running.
Transmission
position
Warning display
D
Front area activated
R, N or the vehicle
is rolling
backwards
Rear and front areas
activated
P
No areas activated
One or more segments light up as the vehicle
approaches an obstacle, depending on the
vehicle's distance from the obstacle.
From the:
R
sixth segment onwards, you will hear an
intermittent warning tone for
approximately two seconds.
R
seventh segment onwards, you will hear a
warning tone for approximately two
seconds. This indicates that you have now
reached the minimum distance.
Deactivating/activating PARKTRONIC
:
Indicator lamp
;
To deactivate/activate PARKTRONIC
If indicator lamp : lights up, PARKTRONIC is
deactivated.
i
PARKTRONIC is automatically activated
when you turn the SmartKey to position 2
in the ignition lock.
Towing a trailer
PARKTRONIC is deactivated for the rear area
when you establish an electrical connection
between your vehicle and a trailer.
Driving systems
191
Driving and parking
Z
Problems with PARKTRONIC
Problem Possible causes/consequences and MM Solutions
Only the red segments
in the PARKTRONIC
warning displays are lit.
You also hear a warning
tone for approximately
two seconds.
PARKTRONIC is
deactivated after a few
seconds, and the
indicator lamp in the
PARKTRONIC button
lights up.
PARKTRONIC has malfunctioned and has switched off.
X
If problems persist, have PARKTRONIC checked at a qualified
specialist workshop.
Only the red segments
in the PARKTRONIC
warning displays are lit.
PARKTRONIC is
deactivated after a few
seconds.
The PARKTRONIC sensors are dirty or there is interference.
X
Clean the PARKTRONIC sensors (Y page 291).
X
Switch the ignition back on.
The problem may be caused by an external source of radio or
ultrasound waves.
X
See if PARKTRONIC functions in a different location.
Rear view camera
Important safety notes
The rear view camera is only an aid. It is not
a replacement for your attention to your
immediate surroundings. You are always
responsible for safe maneuvering and
parking. When maneuvering or parking, make
sure that there are no persons, animals or
objects in the area in which you are
maneuvering.
Under the following circumstances, the rear
view camera will not function, or will function
in a limited manner:
R
the rear door is open
R
in heavy rain, snow or fog
R
at night or in very dark places
R
if the camera is exposed to very bright light
R
if the area is lit by fluorescent light or LED
lighting (the display may flicker)
R
if there is a sudden change in temperature,
e.g. when driving into a heated garage in
winter
R
if the camera lens is dirty or obstructed
R
if the rear of your vehicle is damaged. In
this event, have the camera position and
setting checked at a qualified specialist
workshop Mercedes-Benz recommends
that you use an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center for this purpose
192
Driving systems
Driving and parking
Activating/deactivating the rear view
camera
:
Rear view camera
X
To activate: make sure that the SmartKey
is in position 2 in the ignition lock.
X
Make sure that the rear view camera
function is selected in COMAND (see the
separate operating instructions for
COMAND).
X
Engage reverse gear.
The area behind the vehicle is shown with
guide lines and "Reverse parking"
function : in the COMAND display.
To deactivate: the rear view camera is
deactivated if you:
R
shift the transmission to position P
R
drive forward ten meters
R
shift the transmission from R to another
position after 15 seconds
R
drive forwards at a speed of over 5 mph
(10 km/h)
Off-road driving systems
Transfer case
General notes
The vehicle has permanent all-wheel drive.
Power is always transmitted to both axles.
For further information on driving off-road,
see (Y page 164).
Shift ranges
G
WARNING
If you do not wait for the transfer case gear
change process to complete, the transfer
case could remain in the neutral position. The
power transmission to the driven wheels is
then interrupted. There is a danger of the
vehicle rolling away unintentionally. There is
a risk of an accident.
Wait until the transfer case shift process is
completed.
Do not turn off the engine while changing gear
and do not shift the automatic transmission
to another gear.
HIGH
RANGE
Position for all normal on-
road driving conditions
LOW
RANGE
Low-range position for
driving off-road.
Also for use on steep uphill
or downhill gradients,
especially when towing a
trailer.
The vehicle travels around
half the speed of on-road
driving range HIGH RANGE.
The tractive power is
correspondingly higher.
Off-road driving systems
193
Driving and parking
Z

Related Topics

Driving and parking
Useful information Notes on breaking-in a new vehicle Driving Automatic transmission Refueling Parking Driving tips Off-road driving systems Towing a trailer

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