Mercedes-Benz 2008 M-Class Operator's Manual page 327

Operation
Driving instructions
When driving over tree stumps, big rocks
and other obstacles, observe the following
rules:
Make sure the off-road driving program
( page 253) is switched on.
Avoid high engine speeds.
Shift automatic transmission to
position 1 ( page 192).
Check the vehicle clearance before
crossing obstacles.
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.
326
Driving on sand
Warning!
Do not reduce the tire inflation pressure
before driving through sand. However, if you
do so, remember to correct the tire inflation
pressure ( page 359) before continuing
your trip. Driving with reduced tire inflation
pressure increases the risk of losing control
of the vehicle and rolling over.
When driving on sand, observe the follow-
ing rules:
Vehicles with air suspension program*:
Set the raised level ( page 255).
Avoid high engine speeds.
Shift automatic transmission into a
gear range that is appropriate for the
terrain.
In sandy soil, drive at a steady speed as
conditions permit. This helps overcome
G
the vehicle rolling resistance and re-
duce the likelihood of the vehicle sink-
ing into the ground.
Drive in tracks of other vehicles if they
are not too deep and you have suffi-
cient clearance.
Ruts
A number of off-road tracks or other by-
ways have deep ruts which can cause the
underbody to come in contact with the
ground.
Make sure the off-road driving program
( page 253) is switched on.
Vehicles with air suspension program*:
Set the raised level ( page 255).