Downhill gradients

early to a lower gear. This allows you to take advantage of the engine braking effect On long and steep gradients, you must reduce the load on the brakes by shifting early to a lower gear. This allows you to take advantage of the engine braking effect and helps avoid overheating and excessive wear of the brakes.

When you take advantage of the engine braking effect, a drive wheel may not turn for some time, e.g. on a slippery road surface. This could cause damage to the drive train. This type of damage is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz warranty.

    See also:

    Driving on wet roads
    Hydroplaning If water has accumulated to a certain depth on the road surface, there is a danger of hydroplaning occurring, even if:  - you drive at low speeds.  - the tires have ad ...

    Crash-responsive EASY-EXIT feature
    If the crash-responsive EASY-EXIT feature is triggered in an accident, the steering column will move upwards when the driver's door is opened. This occurs irrespective of the position of the S ...

    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 ...