2006 Mercedes R-Class Owner's Manual - Page 202

Controls in detail Automatic transmission Even though this is possible, make it a practice to always shift into park position P before turning off the engine and remove the SmartKey from the starter switch, or when using KEYLESS-GO*, before turning off the engine with the start/stop button and opening the driver's door. Effect ! Coasting the vehicle, or driving for any other reason in neutral position N can result in transmission damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. í Reverse gear Shift into reverse gear R only when the vehicle is stopped. ë Neutral No power is transmitted from the engine to the drive axle. When the brakes are released, the vehicle can be moved freely (pushed or towed). To avoid damage to the transmission, never shift into neutral position N while driving. If the ESP® is deactivated or malfunctioning: Shift into neutral position N only if the vehicle is in danger of skidding, e.g. on icy roads. Warning! ! If you want the gear position to remain in N (for example when the vehicle is pulled through a car wash) do not remove the SmartKey from the starter switch or, when using KEYLESS-GO* do not turn off the engine using the KEYLESS-GO start/stop button* and open the driver's door Otherwise, the transmission will shift to P and lock the wheels, preventing the vehicle from being pulled through a car wash. G Getting out of your vehicle without shifting into park position P is dangerous. Also, park 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 park position P ( page 65). When parked on an incline, turn the front wheels towards the road curb. 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. ê Drive The transmission shifts automatically. All forward gears are available. 201