Mercedes-Benz 2013 CLA Class - Manual (Page 206)

Before you can tow a trailer with your vehicle,
you must fold out the ball coupling.
The release wheel is located behind the left-
hand side trim panel in the boot.
X To open the cover: turn handle : anti-
clockwise and fold down cover ; and
remove it.
X Pull out release wheel =.
X Turn release wheel = anti-clockwise as far
as it will go.
The ball coupling disengages and folds out
behind the rear bumper. Indicator
lamp ? flashes.
G
WARNING
If the ball coupling is not correctly engaged,
the trailer can detach. There is a risk of an
accident.
Always engage the ball coupling as described.
X Pull the ball coupling in the direction of the
arrow until it engages in a vertical position.
Indicator lamp ? goes out. The power
socket folds down automatically.
The multifunction display shows the
Check trailer hitch lock display mes-
sage until the ball coupling is engaged.
X Remove the protective covering from the
ball coupling and store it in a safe place.
X Make sure that the ball of the ball coupling
is clean and that it is either greased or dry
(grease free), depending on the instruc-
tions for the trailer.
Coupling up a trailer
X Make sure that the transmission is in posi-
tion
P.
X Apply the electric parking brake.
X Position the trailer level behind the vehicle.
X Couple up the trailer.
X Establish the electric connection between
the vehicle and the trailer.
X Check that the trailer lighting system is
working.
A trailer that is connected is recognised
only when the electrical connection is
established correctly and when the lighting
system is working properly. The function of
other systems, such as ESP
® or PARK-
TRONIC also depends on this.
Uncoupling a trailer
G
WARNING
If you uncouple a trailer with an engaged over-
run brake, you could trap your hand between
204
Towing a trailer
Driving and parking