Engaging the differential locks
Pull away slowly when the differential locks are activated.
Function or performance tests may only be performed on a 2-axle dynamometer. If you wish to operate the vehicle on such a dynamometer, please consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center beforehand. You could otherwise damage the drive train or the brake system.
Automatic mode
Use automatic mode 2 for all driving situations, including driving off-road or when fording.
In automatic mode, the differential locks are engaged and disengaged according to driving requirements. This guarantees sufficient traction for most driving situations with unrestricted vehicle steerability.
► Start the engine.
The differential locks are in automatic mode. The indicator lamp in selector wheel 1 lights up above symbol for automatic mode 2.
Engaging manually
WARNING
Never drive on a paved surface with the center
and rear axle differential locks manually
engaged. Ability to steer the vehicle is greatly
reduced when the differential locks are
manually engaged, increasing the risk of an
accident.
For safety reasons, the locks are
automatically released at a vehicle speed
above 31 mph (50 km/h). Nevertheless, you
should only manually lock the differential if
absolutely necessary because engaged locks
will restrict the vehicle drivetrain while
cornering and cause the vehicle to chatter.
This could cause you to lose control of the
vehicle and cause an accident.
The differential locks must not be activated when the vehicle is being towed or while the wheels are spinning.
Only engage the differential locks manually if traction in automatic mode is insufficient.
The differential locks can be activated manually up to a speed of 19 mph (30 km/h).
► Start the engine.
► Turn selector wheel 1 to desired position
3 or 4.
The indicator lamp in selector wheel :
lights up at the corresponding symbol.
The engaged differential appears in the multifunction display:
5 The differential lock for the transfer case is locked.
If you have not previously selected the offroad menu in the on-board computer, the message disappears after about five seconds.
The differential locks are not controlled automatically. The steerability of the vehicle is restricted considerably. Drive carefully and accelerate gently for optimum traction.
If the differential locks are activated manually, the wheels scuff on the road when cornering since the rotation difference between the wheels is no longer balanced out.
You can switch back to automatic mode at any time. For safety reasons, the differential locks are deactivated automatically at speeds over 31 mph (50 km/h). If you stop the vehicle and switch off the ignition for longer than ten seconds, the differential locks switch back to automatic mode.
Message in the multifunction display
Diff. lock system overheated.
Wait briefly.
The differential lock system has overheated and briefly disengaged.
► Continue driving.
The differential locks cool off and are soon available once again.
See also:
Ashtray in the rear-compartment centerconsole
Close the ashtray when it is not in use and
before you fold the rear seats forward. You
can otherwise damage the ashtray.
► To open: briefly press marking 2.
Ashtray 2 opens.
► ...
Front fog lamps
Only vehicles with front fog lamps have the
fog lamps function.
WARNING
If you suspect that driving conditions will be
foggy, turn the light switch to
before you
start your journey. Other ...
Important safety notes
WARNING
Activate the child-proof locks for the rear
doors and the override switch for the rear
windows when children are traveling in the
vehicle.
Children could injure themselves or other ...