Mercedes-Benz GLS Operator's Manual page 192

190 Driving and parking
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ENVIRONMENTAL NOTE Environmental
damage due to non-observance of pro‐
hibition signs
Environmental protection has priority. Treat
nature with respect.
Be sure to observe prohibition signs.
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Checklist before driving off-road
Check the following points before driving off-
road:
Fuel level
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Engine oil level: fill engine oil up to the maxi‐
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mum level to ensure full gradeability
( page 479).
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Tire-change tool kit and spare wheel
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Tires and wheels
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% Further information about special all-terrain
tires for retrofitting can be obtained from a
qualified specialist workshop.
Off-road driving
Read this section before driving your vehicle off-
road. Practice by driving over more gentle off-
road terrain first.
Observe the notes on the cross-country ABS
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( page 220).
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If necessary, select the F or G drive
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program (vehicles with an Off-road package)
before driving off-road ( page 198).
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Before driving off-road, shift the transfer
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case to the LOW RANGE off-road gear (vehi‐
cles with an Offroad package) (
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Select a vehicle level suitable for off-road ter‐
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rain ( page 253). To avoid damaging the
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vehicle, make sure there is always sufficient
ground clearance.
Always keep the engine running and in gear
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when driving on downhill gradients and
slopes. Observe the notes on driving in
mountainous terrain.
Do not drive on unknown terrain that is not
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easily visible and stay on marked routes.
Always keep the doors and windows closed
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while the vehicle is in motion.
Deactivate Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC
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and cruise control.
Adapt your driving style to the terrain.
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Do not use the HOLD function on steep
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downhill or uphill gradients with slippery or
loose surfaces.
Driving on sand
When driving on sand, also observe the following
instructions:
page 205).
Select the F drive program.
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Select a higher vehicle level.
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Shift to a lower gear.
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Drive quickly to overcome the rolling resist‐
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ance, otherwise the vehicle may dig itself in.
Drive in the tracks of other vehicles if possi‐
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ble. Make sure that the following prerequi‐
sites are met:
The tire ruts are not too deep
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The sand is firm enough
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