Winter Driving - Mercedes-Benz G-Class Operator's Manual

Avoid high engine speeds.
R
Enter and exit the water at a flat place and
R
at a steady walking pace.
Drive slowly and at an even speed through
R
the water.
Do not stop and do not switch off the
R
engine.
Water offers a high degree of resistance,
R
and the ground is slippery and in some
cases unstable. Therefore, it is difficult and
dangerous to pull away in the water.
Ensure that a bow wave does not form as
R
you drive.
Clean any mud from the tire tread after
R
fording.
Apply the brakes to dry them after fording.
R
Always observe the fording depth values
( page 350).
Y

Winter driving

General notes
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.
G WARNING
If snow chains are installed to the front
wheels, they may drag against the vehicle
body or chassis components. This could
cause damage to the vehicle or the tires.
There is a risk of an accident.
To avoid hazardous situations:
never install snow chains to the front
R
wheels
always install snow chains in pairs to the
R
rear wheels.
Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified
specialist workshop at the onset of winter.
Observe the notes in the "Winter operation"
section ( page 314).
Y
Driving with summer tires
Observe the notes in the "Winter operation"
section ( page 314).
Y
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.
G
WARNING
The outside temperature indicator is not
designed to serve as an ice-warning device
and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose.
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.
G
WARNING
If you activate the LOW off-road gear while
driving on a slippery road surface, the wheels
may lose traction:
if you remove your foot from the
R
accelerator pedal when driving
if off road ABS intervenes when braking
R
If the wheels lose traction. the vehicle can no
longer be steered. There is an increased
danger of skidding and accidents.
Driving tips
163
Z