Mercedes-Benz M-Class Owner's Manual page 231

Towing a trailer
228
Driving tips
Maintain a greater distance from the vehi-
R
cle in front than when driving without a
trailer.
Avoid braking abruptly. If possible, brake
R
gently at first to allow the trailer to run on.
Then, increase the braking force rapidly.
The values given for gradient-climbing
R
capabilities from a standstill refer to sea
level. When driving in mountainous areas,
note that the power output of the engine,
and consequently the vehicle's gradient-
climbing capability, decrease with increas-
ing altitude.
If the trailer swings from side to side:
Do not accelerate.
X
Do not counter-steer.
X
Brake if necessary.
X
Folding out the ball coupling
G
WARNING
Make sure that no persons or animals are in
the pivoting range of the ball coupling. Other-
wise, they could be injured.
Before you can tow a trailer with your vehicle,
you must fold out the ball coupling.
Make sure that the vehicle is stationary.
X
Open the tailgate.
X
G
WARNING
Make sure that the ball coupling is engaged,
either in its folded-out or folded-in position.
The indicator lamp on the release knob is off.
Do not pull the ball coupling release switch
when a trailer is coupled or a bicycle rack is
fitted.
Pull the release knob : until the ball cou-
X
pling unlocks.
The ball coupling folds out from under the
rear bumper.
The indicator lamp on the release knob
flashes. The trailer socket folds away auto-
matically.
Press the ball coupling in the direction of
X
the arrow until it engages in a vertical posi-
tion.
The indicator lamp on the release knob
goes off.
The multifunction display shows the
Check trailer hitch lock
until the ball coupling is engaged.
Remove the protective cap from the ball
X
coupling and store it in a safe place.
Coupling up a trailer
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
Never lock, unlock, open or close a vehicle
door or tailgate when coupling up or decou-
message