Mercedes-Benz 2005 M-Class Operator's Manual page 211

Crossing obstacles
!
Obstacles can damage the vehicle
undercarriage or suspension compo-
nents. If possible use the assistance of
a second person outside the vehicle to
scout the path you intend to take and
check for adequate ground clearance
when you cross obstacles with your ve-
hicle. The person assisting you outside
the vehicle should always be a safe dis-
tance away from the vehicle and posi-
tioned so that he or she cannot get hurt
in case of any unexpected vehicle
movement.
After off-road driving or crossing obsta-
cles, inspect vehicle for any damage,
especially vehicle undercarriage and
suspension components. Failure to do
so can adversely affect the vehicle's fu-
ture performance, including increased
chance of an accident.
Operation
Driving instructions
Check the vehicle clearance before
crossing obstacles.
Select gear range 1 on the automatic
transmission ( page 122).
Cross obstacles (e.g. tree stumps or
big rocks) very slowly by aiming one of
the front wheels at the center of the ob-
stacle, and repeat same with the rear
wheel.
!
Special attention is needed when you
cross obstacles on a steep incline.
The vehicle could slide sideways as a
result of its possible slanted position
which in turn may result in the vehicle
tipping or rolling over.
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