2003 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 267

Practical hints 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. This method is preferable to other types of towing. When circumstances do not permit the recommended towing methods, the vehicle may be towed with all wheels on the ground only so far as necessary to have the vehicle moved to a safe location where the recommended towing methods can be employed. ! To be certain to avoid additional damage to the vehicle powertrain, however you should observe the following: With damage to the front axle raise front axle remove flexible drive shaft between rear axle and transfer case With damage to the rear axle raise rear axle tow vehicle with wheel lift or dolly placed under front wheels With damage to the transfer case remove flexible drive shaft to the drive axles Always install new self-locking nuts when reinstalling flexible drive shaft. ! Use flatbed or wheel lift/dolly equipment, with key in steering lock 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. Use the towing eyes. Switch off the ESP ( page 76), tow-away alarm ( page 80) and the automatic central locking ( page 89). ! When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, the selector lever must be in position N and the key must be in steering lock 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). If the vehicle is towed with the front axle raised (observe instructions regarding flexible drive shaft), the engine must be shut off (key in steering lock position 1). Otherwise, the 4-ETS may become engaged which may cause loss of towing control. 267