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Driving instructions
285
Set the vehicle level to highway
(Y page 167).
X
Vehicles with AIRMATIC:
Set the ADS to AUTO or COMF
(Y page 166).
X
Turn off the engine (Y page 134).
X
Close all doors and the tailgate.
X
Attach the trailer.
X
Plug in all electrical connectors.
i
Vehicles with AIRMATIC:
When you are towing a trailer, the vehicle
level always remains in the highway setting.
The following applies additionally when
towing a trailer:
R
The vehicle is lowered to the highway
level when it reaches a speed of 5 mph
(8 km/h) if not set to highway level.
R
The highspeed level is not available.
The restrictions that apply to towing also
apply when using accessories that are
connected to the trailer power socket, such
as a bicycle rack.
Towing a trailer
There are many different laws, including
speed limit restrictions, having to do with
trailer towing. Make sure your rig will be legal,
not only for where you reside, but also for
where you will be driving. A good source for
this information can be the police or local
authorities.
Note the following, when driving with a trailer:
R
In order to gain skill and an understanding
of the vehicle’s behavior, you should
practice turning, stopping and backing up
in an area which is free from traffic.
R
Before you start driving check the
-
trailer hitch
-
break-away switch
-
safety chains
-
electrical connections
-
lighting
-
tires
R
Adjust the mirrors (Y page 111) to permit
unobstructed view beyond rear of trailer.
R
If the trailer has electric brakes, start your
vehicle and trailer moving slowly, and then
apply only the trailer brake controller by
hand to make sure the brakes are working
properly.
R
Always secure items in the trailer to
prevent load shifts while driving.
R
When towing a trailer, check occasionally
to make sure the load is secure, and that
lighting and trailer brakes (if so equipped)
are functioning properly.
R
Take into consideration that when towing a
trailer, the handling characteristics are
different and less stable from those when
operating the vehicle without a trailer.
It is important to avoid sudden maneuvers.
R
The vehicle and trailer combination is
heavier, and therefore is limited in
acceleration and climbing ability, and
requires longer stopping distances.
It is more prone to reacting to cross wind
gusts, and requires more sensitive steering
input.
R
If possible, do not brake abruptly, but
rather engage the brake slightly at first to
permit the trailer to activate its brake. Then
increase the braking force.
!
If the trailer should begin to sway, reduce
the vehicle’s speed immediately.
Operation
Z