2009 Mercedes R-Class Owner's Manual - Page 171

Controls in detail Driving systems When indicator lamp 2 is on: X Press switch 1. Indicator lamp 2 flashes. The vehicle adjusts to the highway level. The following message appears in the multifunction display while the level is being set: i The vehicle level is set to highway level automatically when the vehicle speed is exceeding 25 mph (40 km/h). All-wheel drive Your vehicle is equipped with all-wheel drive (4MATIC). Both, the front and rear axles, are powered at all times when the vehicle is being operated. The 4MATIC improves traction in conjunction with the ESP® (Y page 77) and the Electronic Traction System (4-ETS) (Y page 78). ! 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. ! Only conduct operational or performance tests on a two-axle dynamometer. If such tests are necessary, contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. You could otherwise seriously damage the brake system and/or the transfer case which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. i In winter operation, the maximum effectiveness of the 4MATIC is only achieved with winter tires (Y page 277) or snow chains as required. When the highway level is reached, indicator lamp 2 goes out and the following message appears in the multifunction display: i The messages can be cleared by pressing button æ or ç on the multifunction steering wheel. G Warning! If a drive wheel is spinning due to insufficient traction: RWhile driving off, apply as little throttle as possible. RWhile driving, ease up on the accelerator pedal. RAdapt your speed and driving style to the prevailing road conditions. Failure to observe these guidelines could cause the vehicle to skid. The 4MATIC cannot prevent accidents resulting from excessive speed. Z 169