2003 Mercedes G-Class Owner's Manual - Page 204

Operation Driving instructions Special driving features for off-road driving The following driving features are available for specific kind of operation: ABS ( page 71) ESP ( page 75) 4-ETS ( page 74) Differential lock ( page 145) Transfer case ( page 141) Off-road driving rules Engage the transfer case in position LOW before driving under off-road conditions ( page 141). If necessary activate differential locks ( page 145). The ABS, BAS and ESP are switched off automatically when the differential locks are activated. Fasten items being carried as securely as possible ( page 173). Never let the vehicle roll backwards in idle. You may lose control of the vehicle if you use only the service brake. Sand, dirt, mud and other material having friction property can cause exceptional wear and tear as well as brake failure. Have the brakes checked for dirt build-up and cleaned. There is otherwise a risk that full braking power may not be available in an emergency. i Whenever driving in off-road mode, we recommend: Keeping doors, tailgate, windows and sliding/pop-up roof closed. Switching cruise control off. ! Observe the following during off-road driving: Adjust vehicle speed to condition of terrain. The more uneven, rutty and steeper the terrain, the lower the speed should be. Drive through water slowly at an even speed, avoiding a bow wave. Be especially careful when driving in unknown territory. It may be necessary to get out of the vehicle and scout the path you intend to take. Watch out for obstacles, such as rocks, holes, tree stumps and ruts. Read this chapter carefully before you begin off-road travel. Familiarize yourself with the vehicle characteristics and gear changing before you attempt any difficult terrain off-road driving. We recommend that you start out with easy off-road travel. 204