2003 Mercedes SLK-Class Owner's Manual - Page 249

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. When circumstances do not permit the recommended towing methods, the vehicle may be towed with all wheels on the ground or front wheels raised only so far as necessary to have the vehicle moved to a safe location where the recommended towing methods can be employed. ! If the vehicle is towed with the front axle raised, the engine must be shut off (key in starter switch position 0 or 1). Otherwise, the ESP will immediately be engaged and will apply the rear wheel brakes. When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, the selector lever must be in position N (manual transmission: gears disengaged) and the key must be in starter switch position 2. When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground or the front axle raised, 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). Towing of the vehicle should only be done using the properly installed towing eye bolt. Never attach tow cable, tow rope or tow rod to vehicle chassis, frame or suspension parts. ! Vehicles with automatic transmission: Do not tow-start vehicle. ! Use flatbed or wheel lift/dolly equipment with key in starter switch 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. Switch off the tow-away alarm ( page 72) and the automatic central locking ( page 78). 249