2004 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 122

Controls in detail Automatic transmission Gear selector lever position Effect Effect The key can only be removed from the steering lock with the gear selector lever in position P. With the key removed, the gear selector lever is locked in position P. If the vehicle's electrical system is malfunctioning, the gear selector lever could remain locked in position P ( page 264). Effect ë Neutral No power is transmitted from the engine to the drive axle. When the brakes are released, the vehicle can be moved freely (pushed or towed). To avoid damage to the transmission, never engage N while driving. If the ESP is deactivated or malfunctioning: Move gear selector lever to N only if the vehicle is in danger of skidding, e.g. on icy roads. ì Park position Gear selector lever position when the vehicle is parked. Place gear selector lever in position P only 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 gear selector lever in position P to secure the vehicle. í Reverse gear Place gear selector lever in position R only when vehicle is stopped. ê Drive The transmission shifts automatically. All five forward gears are available. 122