2000 Mercedes E-Class Owner's Manual - Page 286

We recommend that the vehicle be transported using flat bed equipment. This method is preferable to other types of towing. The vehicle may be towed with all wheels on the ground and the selector lever in position "N" for distances up to 30 miles (50 km) and at a speed not to exceed 30 mph (50 km /h). The electronic key must be in steering lock position 2. To be certain to avoid a possibility of damage to the transmission, however, we recommend the drive shaft be disconnected at the rear axle drive flange for any towing beyond a short tow to a nearby garage. Do not tow with sling-type equipment. Towing with sling-type equipment over bumpy roads will damage radiator and supports. Use wheel lift, dolly, or flat bed equipment, with electronic key in steering lock turned to position 0. Warning! With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the braking and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle. Towing the vehicle Instruments and controls Operation Driving 283 Instrument cluster display Note: To signal turns while being towed with hazard warning flasher in use, turn electronic key in steering lock to position 2 and activate combination switch for left or right turn signal in usual manner - only the selected turn signal will operate. Upon canceling the turn signal, the hazard warning flasher will operate again. Caution! If the vehicle is towed with the front axle raised, the engine must be shut off (electronic key in steering lock position 0 or 1). Otherwise, the ESP will immediately be engaged and will apply the rear wheel brakes. Switch off the tow-away alarm as well as the ESP. Practical hints Car care Technical data Index