Mercedes-Benz M-Class 2012 Owners Manual - Manual (Page 214)

Please note that when towing a trailer,
PARKTRONIC (
Y
page 183) and Blind Spot
Assist (
Y
page 198) are only available with
limitations, or not at all.
i On vehicles without level control, the
height of the ball coupling will alter
according to the load placed on the vehicle.
If necessary, use a trailer with a height-
adjustable drawbar.
Driving tips
i Observe the information on ESP ® trailer
stabilization (
Y
page 64) and on pulling
away with a trailer. (
Y
page 141).
The maximum permissible speed for vehicle/
trailer combinations depends on the type of
trailer. Before beginning the journey, check
the trailer's documents to see what the
maximum permitted speed is. Observe the
legally prescribed maximum speed in the
relevant country.
For certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the
maximum permissible rear axle load is
increased when towing a trailer. Refer to the
"Technical data" section to find out whether
this applies to your vehicle. If you utilize any
of the added maximum rear axle load when
towing a trailer, the vehicle/trailer
combination may not exceed a maximum
speed of 60 mph(100 km/h) for reasons
concerning the operating permit. This also
applies in countries in which the permissible
maximum speed for vehicle/trailer
combinations is above 60 mph(100 km/h).
When towing a trailer, your vehicle's handling
characteristics will be different in comparison
with when driving without a trailer.
On long and steep downhill gradients, you
must select shift range 1, 2 or 3 in good time.
i This also applies if you have activated
cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS.
This will use the braking effect of the engine,
so that less braking will be required to
maintain the speed. This relieves the load on
the brake system and prevents the brakes
from overheating and wearing too quickly. If
you need additional braking, depress the
brake pedal repeatedly rather than
continuously.
Driving tips
R Maintain a greater distance from the
vehicle in front than when driving without a
trailer.
R Avoid braking abruptly. If possible, brake
gently at first to allow the trailer to run on.
Then, increase the braking force rapidly.
R The values given for gradient-climbing
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
increasing altitude.
If the trailer swings from side to side:
X Do not accelerate.
X Do not counter-steer.
X Brake if necessary.
Assembling the ball coupling
! Mercedes-Benz recommends that you
have the ball coupling assembled at a
qualified specialist workshop. Only a
qualified specialist workshop has the
necessary specialist knowledge and tools
to carry out the work required. You could
otherwise incorrectly assemble the ball
coupling or tighten the nut with the
incorrect torque. This could lead to the ball
coupling and the ball coupling carrier
becoming detached while towing a trailer.
As a result, you could cause an accident.
Therefore, have the ball coupling
assembled at a qualified specialist
workshop.
If the assembled ball coupling has been
permanently mounted on the vehicle, have
the ball coupling regularly checked for
212
Trailer towing
Driving
and
parking