2003 Mercedes E-Class Owner's Manual - Page 348

Practical hints Towing the vehicle Towing the vehicle Towing the vehicle Mercedes-Benz recommends that the vehicle be transported with all wheels off the ground using flatbed or appropriate wheel lift/dolly equipment. to have the vehicle moved to a safe location where the recommended towing methods can be employed. ! 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. ! If the vehicle is towed with the front axle raised, the engine must be shut off (key in starter switch position 0 or 1). Otherwise, the ESP will immediately be engaged and will apply the rear wheel brakes. When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, the selector lever must be in position N and the key must be in starter switch position 2. When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, the vehicle may be towed only for distances up to 30 miles (50 km) and at a speed not to exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). ! Use flatbed or wheel lift/dolly equipment with key in starter switch turned to position 0. Do not tow with sling-type equipment. Towing with sling-type equipment over bumpy roads will damage radiator and supports. To prevent damage during transport, do not tie down vehicle by its chassis or suspension parts. Switch off the tow-away alarm and the automatic central locking When circumstances do not permit the recommended towing methods, the vehicle may be towed with all wheels on the ground or front wheels raised only so far as 348