2002 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 366

We recommend that the vehicle be transported using flat bed equipment. This method is preferable to other types of towing. Important! To prevent damage during transport, do not tie down vehicle by its chassis or suspension parts. 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 starter switch 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 starter switch 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. Note: To signal turns while being towed with hazard warning flasher in use, turn electronic key in starter switch 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 starter switch position 0 or 1). Otherwise, the ESP will immediately be engaged and will apply the rear wheel brakes. Switch off the tow-away alarm (see page 61), the automatic central locking, see individual setting menu "VEHICLE" - "AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK" (see page 146) as well as the ESP (see page 280). 363 Towing the vehicle Instruments and controls Operation Driving Instrument cluster display Practical hints Car care Technical data Index