2003 Mercedes C-Class Owner's Manual - Page 138

Controls in detail Automatic transmission* Automatic transmission* Information for driving with an automatic transmission is found in the "Getting started" section ( page 44). Your transmission adapts its gear shifting process to your individual driving style by continually adjusting the shift points up or down. These shift point adjustments are performed based on current operating and driving conditions. If the operating conditions change the automatic transmission reacts by adjusting its gear shift program. The automatic transmission selects individual gears automatically, depending on the selector lever position D with gear ranges 4, 3, 2, 1 ( page 140) the selected shift program (W/S) ( page 142) the position of the accelerator pedal ( page 143) the vehicle speed The current selector lever position and shift program (W/S) appear in the speedometer display ( page 111). An additional indication of the current selector lever position can be found on the cover of the shifting-gate. The indicators come on when you activate a switch (e.g. unlocking the vehicle or opening a door) and go out after approximately 15 minutes. Warning! G It is dangerous to shift the selector lever out of P or N if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal. i During the brief warm-up the transmission upshifting is delayed. This allows the catalytic converter to heat up more quickly to operating temperatures. When the selector lever is in position D, you can influence transmission shifting by limiting the gear range changing gears yourself 138