364 operation – Mercedes-Benz GL-Class 2007 Owners Manual User Manual
Page 365

364
Operation
Driving instructions
Driving on sand
When driving on sand, observe the follow-
ing rules:
ț
Set the raised level (
ț
Avoid high engine speeds.
ț
Shift automatic transmission into a
gear range that is appropriate for the
terrain.
ț
In sandy soil, drive at a steady speed as
conditions permit. This helps overcome
the vehicle rolling resistance and re-
duce the likelihood of the vehicle sink-
ing into the ground.
ț
Drive in tracks of other vehicles if they
are not too deep and you have suffi-
cient clearance.
Ruts
A number of off-road tracks or other by-
ways have deep ruts which can cause the
underbody to come in contact with the
ground.
ț
Make sure the off-road driving program
(
page 279), or if equipped, the LOW
RANGE mode* (
switched on.
ț
Set the raised level (
ț
Avoid high engine speeds.
ț
Shift automatic transmission to
position 1 (
ț
Drive next to the ruts rather than
through them if at all possible.
ț
If the ruts are too deep to drive in, drive
with one side of the vehicle on the
grassy center strip if the route permits.
Warning!
G
Do not reduce the tire inflation pressure
before driving through sand. However, if you
do so, remember to correct the tire inflation
pressure (
page 396) before continuing
your trip. Driving with reduced tire inflation
pressure increases the risk of losing control
of the vehicle and rolling over.
!
Check that the ruts are not too deep and
your vehicle’s clearance is sufficient. Otherwise:
ț
your vehicle may be damaged
ț
the underbody of the vehicle may come in
contact with the ground and you may get
stuck