Trailer Hitch - Mercedes-Benz 2009 M-Class Operator's Manual

Operation
Driving instructions
Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody
for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires
appear unsafe, have the vehicle towed to
the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center or tire dealer for repairs.
Off-road driving increases strain on the
vehicle.
We recommend that you inspect the vehicle
for possible damage after each off-road trip.
Recognizing any damage and a subsequent
timely repair reduces the chance of a possible
breakdown or accident later on.
Proceed as follows:
Switch off the off-road driving program
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( Y page 170).
Switch off the DSR ( Y page 167).
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Vehicles with air suspension program:
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Lower the vehicle back to a level suitable
for road conditions, e. g. highway/high-
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speed level ( page 171).
Clean all exterior lamps and check for
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possible damage.
Clean the front and rear license plate.
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Remove excessive dirt from tires, wheels,
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wheel housings, and underbody.
For instance, after driving in mud, clean the
radiator, chassis, engine, brakes, and
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wheels from extreme dirt using a strong jet
of water.
Check tires for possible damage.
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Inspect vehicle underbody, oil pan, brake
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hoses, etc., as well as vehicle underbody
for possible damage.
Check for brush or branches caught in the
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underbody.
! Brush or branches could increase the
possibility of a fire, as well as cut fuel and/
or brake lines, puncture rubber bellows of
the axles or drive shafts.
After continued operation in mud, sand,
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water or other dirty conditions clean the
brake discs, wheels, brake pads and check
and clean axle joints.
Conduct a brake test.
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Trailer towing
G Warning!
Failure to use proper equipment and driving
technique can result in a loss of vehicle
control when towing a trailer.
Improper towing or failure to follow the
instructions in this manual can result in
vehicle damage and/or serious personal
injury. Follow the guidelines below carefully
to assure safe trailer operation.
Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center should you require an explanation
of information contained in this manual.

Trailer hitch

Only install a trailer hitch receiver approved
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for your vehicle.
For information on availability and
installation, contact an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
The bumpers on your vehicle are not
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designed for use with clamp-type hitches.