Off-Road Driving Systems; Matic (Permanent Four-Wheel Drive); Towing A Trailer - Mercedes-Benz 2011 GLK-Class Operator's Manual

Towing a trailer

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Guide lines ; and = show the approximate
distance from the rear of the vehicle. Yellow
guide line ; indicates a distance of
approximately 3 ft (1 m) and red guide line
= indicates a distance of approximately
10 in (0.25 m). The distances only apply to
objects at ground level. Blue guide line :
depicts the width required for the vehicle. It
is used to align the vehicle with the edge of
the road, e.g. the curb.

Off-road driving systems

4MATIC (permanent four-wheel drive)

4MATIC ensures that all four wheels are
permanently driven. Together with ESP
ETS, it improves the traction of your vehicle
whenever a drive wheel spins due to
insufficient grip.
G
Warning!
If a drive wheel is spinning due to insufficient
traction:
While driving off, apply as little throttle as
R
possible.
While driving, ease up on the accelerator
R
pedal.
Adapt your speed and driving style to the
R
prevailing road conditions.
Failure to observe these guidelines could
cause the vehicle to skid.
The 4MATIC cannot prevent accidents
resulting from excessive speed.
! Never tow the vehicle with one axle
raised. This may damage the transfer case.
Damage of this sort is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. All
wheels must remain either on the ground
or be fully raised. Observe the instructions
for towing the vehicle with all wheels in full
contact with the ground.
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.
! 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 key to position
0 or 1 in the ignition. Failure to do this can
cause damage to the drive train or the
brake system.
!
Function or performance tests may only
be performed on a 2-axle dynamometer. If
you wish to operate the vehicle on such a
dynamometer, please consult an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center
beforehand. You could otherwise damage
the drive train or the brake system.
®
and
Information on "Off-road driving"; see .
Towing a trailer
Notes on towing a trailer
Important safety instructions
G
Warning!
Failure to use proper equipment and driving
technique can result in a loss of vehicle
control when towing a trailer.
Improper towing or failure to follow the
instructions in this manual can result in
vehicle damage and/or serious personal
injury. Follow the guidelines below carefully
to assure safe trailer operation.