2003 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 115

Controls in detail Automatic transmission Gear range é è Effect The transmission shifts through fourth gear only. The transmission shifts through third gear only. With this selection you can use the braking effect of the engine. Gear range ç Effect The transmission shifts through second gear only. Allows the use of engine's braking power when driving on steep downgrades in mountainous regions under extreme operating conditions Gear selector lever position Effect P Park position Selector position when the vehicle is parked. Only place selector lever in position P when vehicle is stopped. The park position is not intended to serve as a brake when the vehicle is parked. Rather, the driver should always set the parking brake in addition to placing the selector lever in position P to secure the vehicle. The key can only be removed from the steering lock with the selector lever in position P. With the key removed the selector lever is locked in position P. If the vehicle electrical system is malfunctioning, the selector lever could remain locked in position P ( page 245). R Place selector lever in position R only when vehicle is stopped. æ The transmission operates only in first gear For maximum use of engine's braking effect on very steep or lengthy downgrades. 115