2008 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 701

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. ! 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. 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 brake system there is a malfunction in the power supply or in the vehicle's electrical system This is necessary to adequately control the towed vehicle. Prior to towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, make sure the SmartKey or SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* is in starter switch position 2. ! Use flatbed or wheel lift/dolly equipment with SmartKey or SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO* 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. Switch off the ESP® ( page 73) and the automatic central locking ( page 245). ! Do not tow-start the vehicle. ! Towing of the vehicle should only be done using the properly installed towing eye bolt. Never attach tow cable, tow rope or tow rod to vehicle chassis, frame or suspension parts. 700