2003 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 117

Controls in detail Automatic transmission Accelerator position Your driving style influences the transmission's shifting behavior: Less throttle More throttle Kickdown Use kickdown when you want maximum acceleration Press the accelerator past the point of resistance. The transmission shifts into a lower gear. Ease on the accelerator when you have reached the desired speed. The transmission shifts up again. Earlier upshifting Later upshifting Towing a trailer If you tow a trailer, note the following points: Manually shift to a lower gear range (4, 3, 2, 1), if the transmission hunts between gears on inclines ( page 114). A lower gear range and reduction of speed reduces the change to overload or overheat the engine. At very steep inclines switch transfer case to LOW RANGE mode ( page 118). For more information on trailer towing, see the "Operation" section ( page 192). Emergency operation (Limp Home Mode) If the vehicle acceleration worsens or the transmission no longer shifts, the transmission is most likely operating in limp home mode. In this mode only 2nd gear and reverse gear can be activated. Stop the vehicle. Move selector lever to position P. Turn off the engine. Wait at least ten seconds before restarting. Move selector lever to position D (for 2nd gear) or R. Have the transmission checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center as soon as possible. 117