2007 Mercedes C-Class Owner's Manual - Page 389

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. When circumstances do not permit the recommended towing methods, the vehicle may be towed with all wheels on the ground or front wheels raised (except vehicles with 4MATIC) only so far as necessary to have the vehicle moved to a safe location where the recommended towing methods can be employed. ! If the vehicle is towed with the front axle raised (not permissible for vehicles with 4MATIC), the gear selector lever* must be in position N (manual transmission: gear shift lever in neutral position) and the engine must be shut off (SmartKey in starter switch position 0 or 1). Otherwise the ESP® will immediately be engaged and will apply the rear wheel brakes. When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, the gear selector lever* must be in position N (manual transmission: gears disengaged) and the SmartKey must be in starter switch position 2. When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground or the front axle raised, 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). ! Vehicles with automatic transmission* and/or 4MATIC: Do not tow-start the vehicle. ! Use flatbed or wheel lift/dolly equipment with the SmartKey in the 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. Switch off the automatic central locking ( page 143). ! Vehicles with 4MATIC: Do not tow with one axle raised. Doing so could damage the transfer case, which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. All wheels must be on or off the ground. Observe instructions for towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground. 388