Mercedes-Benz R-Class 2008 Owners Manual - Manual (Page 282)

281
Controls in detail
Driving systems
Permanent four-wheel drive (4MATIC)*
Your vehicle is equipped with permanent
four-wheel drive (4MATIC). Both, the front
and rear axles, are powered at all times
when the vehicle is being operated. The
4MATIC improves traction in conjunction
with the ESP
® ( ୴ page 101) and the
Electronic Traction System ( ୴ page 103).
Parktronic* (Parking assist)
Warning!
G
If a drive wheel is spinning due to insuffi-
cient traction:
ț While driving off, apply as little throttle
as possible.
ț While driving, ease up on the accelera-
tor.
ț 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 re-
sulting from excessive speed.
! Operational or performance test must only
be conducted on a two-axle dynamometer. If
such tests are necessary, contact an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. You could
otherwise seriously damage the brake system or
the transfer case which is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
!
Because the ESP ® operates automatically,
the engine and ignition must be shut off
(SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1 or
KEYLESS-GO* start/stop button in
position 0 or 1) when testing the parking brake
on a brake test dynamometer and such testing
should be no longer than 10 seconds.
Active braking action through the ESP ® may
otherwise seriously damage the brake system
which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz
Limited Warranty.
i In winter operation, the maximum effective-
ness of the 4MATIC is only achieved with winter
tires (
୴ page 398) or snow chains as required.
Warning!
G
Parktronic is a supplemental system. It is
not intended to, nor does it replace, the
need for extreme care. The responsibility
during parking and other critical maneuvers
always remains with the driver.
Special attention must be paid to objects
with smooth surfaces or low silhouettes
(e.g. trailer couplings, painted posts, or road
curbs). Such objects may not be detected by
the system and can damage the vehicle.
The operational function of the Parktronic
system can be affected by dirty sensors,
especially at times of snow and ice, see
“Cleaning the Parktronic* system sensors”
( ୴ page 408).
Interference caused by other ultrasonic
signals (e.g. working jackhammers, car
wash, or the air brakes of trucks) can cause
the system to send erratic indications, and
should be taken into consideration.