2004 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 201

Operation Driving instructions Special driving features for off-road driving The following driving features are available for specific kind of operation: LOW RANGE mode ( page 125) LOW RANGE - ABS ( page 77) LOW RANGE - 4-ETS ( page 80) LOW RANGE - ESP ( page 81) Off-road driving rules Engage the LOW RANGE mode before driving under off-road conditions ( page 125). Fasten items being carried as securely as possible ( page 157). ! Observe the following during off-road driving: Adjust vehicle speed to condition of terrain. The more uneven, rutty and steeper the terrain, the lower the speed should be Watch out for obstacles, such as rocks, holes, tree stumps and ruts. Be especially careful when driving in unknown territory. It may be necessary to get out of the vehicle and scout the path you intend to take. Before driving through water, determine is depth. Do not stop vehicle while immersed in water, and do not shut off the engine. In sandy soil, please drive at a steady speed as allowed by conditions. This helps overcome the vehicle rolling resistance and reduces the likelihood of the vehicle sinking into the ground. Do not initiate jumps with the vehicle. It interrupts the forward momentum of the vehicle. Always drive onto slopes with the the engine running and the vehicle in gear. Checklist before off-road driving Tires Check the tread depth and maintain specified tire pressure (see tire pressure label inside the fuel filler flap). Check tires for possible damage and remove foreign objects. Replace missing valve caps. i We recommend keeping doors, liftgate, windows, and sliding/pop-up roof* closed whenever driving in off-road mode. 201