2004 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 294

Operation Winter driving Block heater (Canada only) The engine is equipped with a block heater. The electrical cable may be installed at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. Snow chains i When driving with snow chains, you may wish to deactivate the ESP ( page 80) before setting the vehicle in motion. This will improve the vehicle's traction. Please observe the following guidelines when using snow chains: Use of snow chains is not permissible with all wheel/tire combinations. Snow chains should only be used on the rear wheels. Follow the manufacturer's mounting instructions. Only use snow chains that are approved by Mercedes-Benz. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to advise you on this subject. Use of snow chains may be prohibited depending on location. Always check local and state laws before installing snow chains. ! Even on vehicles with all-wheel drive, use snow chains on rear tires only. Do not use snow chains with tire sizes 245/45 R 18 on 8 1/2 x 18 rims and 265/40 R 18 in general ( page 384). Do not use snow chains on tires mounted on AMG rims. i When using snow chains, vehicles with AIRMATIC should only be driven at raised vehicle level ( page 219). Vehicles with ABC* should only be driven at vehicle height 1 ( page 221). Snow chains should only be driven on snow-covered roads at speeds not to exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). Remove chains as soon as possible when driving on roads without snow. 293