2004 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 123

Controls in detail Automatic transmission ! Coasting the vehicle, or driving for any other reason with gear selector lever in N can result in transmission damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Accelerator position Your driving style influences the transmission's shifting behavior: Less throttle More throttle Kickdown Warning! Earlier upshifting Later upshifting Warning! G Do not park this vehicle in areas where combustible materials such as grass, hay or leaves can come into contact with the hot exhaust system, as these materials could be ignited and cause a vehicle fire. Warning! G G When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key from the steering lock, take it with you and lock the vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Children could move the gear selector lever from position P, which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury. Getting out of your vehicle with the gear selector lever not fully engaged in position P is dangerous. Also, position P alone is not intended to or capable of preventing your vehicle from moving, possibly hitting people or objects. Always set the parking brake in addition to shifting to position P ( page 53). When parked on an incline, turn the front wheels towards the road curb. 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. 123