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Automatic transmission
120
will go to automatic program mode (C or
S) when the engine is restarted.
X
All models except SL 63 AMG: Press the
program mode selector switch repeatedly
until the letter of the desired program mode
appears in the right multifunction display.
X
SL 63 AMG: Turn the program mode selec-
tor dial until the letter of the desired pro-
gram mode appears in the right multifunc-
tion display.
Selecting program mode C means:
R
The vehicle starts out more gentle, both
forward and reverse, except when driving
off with full throttle.
R
Traction and driving stability are improved
on icy roads.
R
Upshifts occur earlier even when you give
more gas. The engine then operates at
lower rpms and the wheels are less likely
to spin.
Selecting program mode S means that
upshifts occur later.
One-touch gearshifting
With the automatic transmission in drive posi-
tion D and driving in automatic program mode
C or S, you can limit or extend the gear range
using the gear selector lever or the steering
wheel gearshift contol.
U.S. vehicles: Steering wheel gearshift con-
trol is available on vehicles with AMG Sport
Package, on SL 63 AMG, and on SL 65 AMG
only.
SL 63 AMG and SL 65 AMG: For information
on using the gear selector lever or the steer-
ing wheel gearshift control in manual program
mode M, see “Manual shift pro-
gram” (Y page 121).
Steering wheel gearshift control (example illustra-
tion)
1
Limiting gear range
Downshift (in manual program mode M)
2
Extending gear range
Upshift (in manual program mode M)
i
You cannot shift with the steering wheel
gearshift control when the automatic trans-
mission is in park position P, neutral posi-
tion N, or reverse gear R.
Limiting gear range
G
Warning!
On slippery road surfaces, never downshift
in order to obtain braking action. This could
result in drive wheel slip and reduced vehi-
Controls in detail