Mercedes-Benz 2005 M-Class Operator's Manual page 212

Operation
Driving instructions
Ruts
A number of off-road tracks or other by-
ways have deep ruts which can cause the
undercarriage to come in contact with the
ground.
Select gear range 1 on the automatic
transmission ( page 122).
Drive next to the ruts rather than
through them if at all possible.
210
Returning from off-road driving
Warning!
If you feel a sudden significant vibration or
ride disturbance, or you suspect that possi-
ble damage to your vehicle has occurred,
you should turn on the hazard warning flash-
ers, carefully slow down, and drive with cau-
tion to an area which is a safe distance from
the roadway.
Inspect the tires and under the vehicle for
possible damage. If the vehicle or tires ap-
pear unsafe, have it towed to the nearest
Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center or tire
dealer for repairs.
Off-road driving increases strain on the
vehicle.
G
We recommend that you inspect the vehi-
cle for possible damage after each off-road
trip. Recognizing any damage and a subse-
quent timely repair reduces the chance of
a possible breakdown or accident later on.
Proceed as follows:
Switch off the LOW RANGE mode
( page 127).
Remove excessive dirt from tires,
wheels, wheel housings, and under-
body.
For instance, after driving in mud, clean
the radiator, chassis, engine, brakes,
and wheels from extreme dirt using a
strong jet of water.