4MATIC ensures that all four wheels are permanently driven. Together with ESP® and ETS, 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.

When testing the parking brake, operate the vehicle only briefly (for a maximum of ten seconds) on a brake test dynamometer.

When doing this, turn the SmartKey to position 0 or 1 in the ignition. Failure to do this can cause damage to the drive train or the brake system.

Function or performance tests may only be performed on a 2-axle dynamometer. If you wish to operate the vehicle on such a dynamometer, please consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center beforehand. You could otherwise damage the drive train or the brake system.