2004 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 284

Practical hints Towing the vehicle ! When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, note the following: With the automatic central locking activated and the key in steering lock position 2, the vehicle doors lock if the left front wheel is turning at vehicle speeds of approx. 9 mph (15 km/h) or more. To prevent the vehicle doors from locking, deactivate the automatic central locking ( page 93). Towing of the vehicle should only be done using the towing eye. Never attach tow cable, tow rope or tow rod to vehicle chassis, frame or suspension parts. Warning! G Warning! G If circumstances require towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, always tow with a tow bar if: the engine will not run there is a malfunction in the power supply or in the vehicle's electrical system Prior to towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, make certain that the key is in steering lock position 2. If the key is left in steering lock position 0 for an extended period of time, it can no longer be turned in the switch. In this case, the steering is locked. To unlock, remove key from steering lock and reinsert. With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle. Adapt your driving accordingly. i To signal turns while being towed with hazard warning flasher in use, turn key in steering lock to position 2 and activate combination switch for left or right turn signal in usual manner - only the selected turn signal will operate. Upon canceling the turn signal, the hazard warning flasher will operate again. i The vehicle cannot be started via tow-start. 284