4MATIC (permanent four-wheel drive)
4MATIC ensures that all four wheels are permanently driven. Together with ESP®, it improves the traction of your vehicle whenever a drive wheel spins due to insufficient grip.
WARNING
If a drive wheel is spinning due to insufficient
traction:
• While driving off, apply as little throttle as
possible.
• While driving, ease up on the accelerator
pedal.
• Adapt your speed and driving style to the
prevailing road conditions.
Failure to observe these guidelines could
cause the vehicle to skid.
The 4MATIC cannot prevent accidents
resulting from excessive speed.
Never tow the vehicle with one axle
raised. This may damage the transfer case.
Damage of this sort is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. All
wheels must remain either on the ground
or be fully raised. Observe the instructions
for towing the vehicle with all wheels in full
contact with the ground.
In wintry driving conditions, the maximum
effect of 4MATIC can only be achieved if
you use winter tires (M+S tires), with snow
chains if necessary.
See also:
Deactivating/activating ESP®
WARNING
Never switch off the ESP when you see the
ESP warning lamp flashing in the
instrument cluster. In this case proceed as
follows:
- When driving off, apply as little throttle ...
Activation conditions
You can activate the HOLD function if:
• the vehicle is stationary.
• the engine is running.
• the driver's door is closed or your seat belt is fastened.
• the parking brake is not applied.
• the ...
EBD (electronic brake force
distribution)
Observe the "Important safety
notes"
section.
EBD monitors and controls the brake
pressure on the rear wheels to improve
driving stability while braking.
WARNING
If EBD has malf ...