Mercedes-Benz 2009 GL-Class Automobile User Manual


 
Driving instructions
304
R
Make sure you select a vehicle level
(Y page 186) appropriate to the
topographical conditions. Always make
sure the vehicle has enough ground
clearance.
R
Fasten items being carried as securely as
possible (Y page 227).
R
Always navigate gradients with the engine
on and with the transmission engaged in a
gear. Switch on the DSR (Y page 182) to
help maintain a preset speed.
!
Observe the following during off-road
driving:
R
Keep doors, tailgate, windows, and tilt/
sliding sunroof closed whenever driving
off-road.
R
Adjust vehicle speed to condition of
terrain. The more uneven, rutty and
steeper the terrain, the lower the speed
should be. Drive through water slowly at
an even speed, avoiding a bow wave.
R
Be especially careful when driving in
unknown territory. It may be necessary
to get out of the vehicle and scout the
path you intend to take.
R
Watch out for obstacles, such as rocks,
holes, tree stumps and ruts.
R
Before driving through water, determine
its depth.
R
Do not stop vehicle while immersed in
water, and do not shut off the engine.
R
In sandy soil, drive at a steady speed as
allowed by conditions. This helps
overcome the vehicle rolling resistance
and reduces the likelihood of the vehicle
sinking into the ground.
R
Do not initiate jumps with the vehicle. It
interrupts the forward momentum of the
vehicle.
R
Always drive onto slopes with the engine
running and the vehicle in gear.
R
Do not shift automatic transmission into
neutral position N.
G
Warning!
Do not reduce the tire inflation pressure
before driving through sand. However, if
you do so, remember to correct the tire
inflation pressure before continuing your
trip. Driving with reduced tire inflation
pressure increases the risk of losing control
of the vehicle and rolling over.
Checklist before off-road driving
Engine oil level
R
Check the engine oil level (Y page 269).
Only with a proper oil level can the vehicle
obtain a trouble-free oil supply, even on
steep gradients.
!
If the engine oil level warning lamp comes
on while driving, stop the vehicle in a safe
location or as soon at is safe to do so.
Check the engine oil level.
The engine oil level warnings should not be
ignored. Extended driving with the symbol
displayed could result in serious engine
damage that is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
Tires
R
Check the tread depth and maintain
specified tire inflation pressure (a placard
with the recommended tire inflation
pressures is located on the driver’s door B-
pillar (Y page 276)).
R
Check tires for possible damage and
remove foreign objects.
R
Replace missing valve caps.
Operation