Mercedes-Benz 2009 ML-Class Automobile User Manual


 
334
Operation
Driving instructions
Read this chapter carefully before you be-
gin off-road travel.
Familiarize yourself with the vehicle char-
acteristics and gear changing before you
attempt any difficult terrain off-road driv-
ing. We recommend that you start out with
easy off-road travel.
Special driving features for off-road
driving
The following driving features are available
for specific kind of operation:
ț Off-road – ABS ( page 97)
ț Off-road – ESP
®
(page 101)
ț Off-road – 4-ETS ( page 102)
ț Hill start assist system (page 192)
ț Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR)
(
page 264)
ț Off-road driving program (page 268)
ț Air suspension* ( page 269)
Never let the vehicle roll backwards in idle.
You may lose control of the vehicle if you
use only the service brake. For information
on driving downhill, see “Driving downhill”
(
page 338).
Warning! G
Sand, dirt, mud and other material having
friction property can cause exceptional wear
and tear as well as brake failure.
Have the brakes checked for dirt build-up
and cleaned. There is otherwise a risk that
full braking power may not be available in an
emergency.
Warning! G
Vehicles with air suspension package*:
Please be aware that by raising the vehicle
level, the center of gravity also rises. There-
fore, always ensure that the vehicle level is
as low as possible. With higher ride height
the ESP
®
may activate earlier in certain
situations.
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