Mercedes-Benz E-Class Owner's Manual page 225

Towing a trailer
222
On long and steep downhill gradients, espe-
cially if the vehicle is laden or towing a trailer,
you must select shift range 1, 2 or 3.
i
This also applies if you have activated
cruise control, SPEEDTRONIC or DIS-
TRONIC PLUS.
This will use the braking effect of the engine,
so less braking will be required to prevent the
vehicle from gaining speed. This 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.
Driving tips
If the trailer swings from side to side:
Do not accelerate.
X
Do not countersteer.
X
Brake if necessary.
X
Maintain a greater distance from the vehi-
R
cle in front than when driving without a
trailer.
Avoid braking abruptly. If possible, brake
R
gently at first to allow the trailer to run on.
Then, increase the braking force rapidly.
The values given for gradient-climbing
R
capabilities from a standstill refer to sea
level. When driving in mountainous areas,
note that the power output of the engine,
and consequently the vehicle's gradient-
climbing capability, decrease with increas-
ing altitude.
Folding out the ball coupling
G
WARNING
If the ball coupling is not correctly engaged,
the trailer can detach. There is a risk of an
accident.
Always engage the ball coupling as described.
G
WARNING
If you release the ball coupling or it does not
engage correctly when folding in, it will swing
out. Within pivoting range of the ball coupling,
there is an increased risk of an accident and
injury.
Only release the ball coupling if the pivoting
range is unobstructed. Always make sure that
the ball coupling engages when folding in.
Before you can tow a trailer with your vehicle,
you must fold out the ball coupling.
The release wheel is located behind the left-
hand side trim panel in the boot.
To open the cover:
Turn handle : anti-clockwise and fold
X
down cover ;.
To release and fold out the ball coupling:
Pull out release wheel ?.
X
Turn release wheel ? anti-clockwise until
X
the ball coupling releases and folds out
from under the rear bumper. Indicator lamp
= flashes.