2005 Mercedes G-Class Owner's Manual - Page 356

Practical hints Towing the vehicle Mercedes-Benz recommends that the vehicle be transported with all wheels off the ground using flatbed or appropriate wheel lift/dolly equipment. This method is preferable to other types of towing. ground only so far as necessary to have the vehicle moved to a safe location where the recommended towing methods can be employed. ! Do not tow-start the vehicle. ! Use flatbed or wheel lift/dolly equipment, with SmartKey in starter switch turned to position 0. Do not tow with sling-type equipment. Towing with sling-type equipment over bumpy roads will damage radiator and supports. To prevent damage during transport, do not tie down vehicle by its chassis or suspension parts. Use the towing eyes. Switch off the ESP ( page 86), tow-away alarm ( page 89) and the automatic central locking ( page 141). When circumstances do not permit the recommended towing methods, the vehicle may be towed with all wheels on the ! When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, the gear selector lever must be in position N and the SmartKey must be in starter switch position 2. When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, the vehicle may be towed only for distances up to 30 miles (50 km) and at a speed not to exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). If the vehicle is towed with one axle raised (observe instructions regarding flexible drive shaft and propeller shafts), the engine must be shut off (SmartKey in starter switch position 1). Otherwise, the 4-ETS may become engaged which may cause loss of towing control. Warning! G Prior to towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, make sure the SmartKey is in starter switch position 2. If the SmartKey is left in the starter switch 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 SmartKey from starter switch and reinsert. 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 as that will be necessary to adequately control the towed vehicle. 356