2009 Mercedes R-Class Owner's Manual - Page 386

Practical hints Towing the vehicle Removing towing eye bolt X X X X Loosen towing eye bolt 1 counterclockwise with wheel wrench. Unscrew towing eye bolt 1. Reinstalling cover: Engage cover 1 (Y page 383) at top and press at bottom. Store the towing eye bolt and wheel wrench back into the vehicle tool kit. Prior to towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, make sure the SmartKey is in starter switch position 2. automatic transmission into park position P. Towing with all wheels on the ground G Warning! If circumstances require towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, always tow with a tow bar if: Rthe engine will not run Rthere is a malfunction in the brake system Rthere is a malfunction in the power supply or in the vehicle's electrical system This is necessary to adequately control the towed vehicle. G Warning! With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the brake and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle. Adapt your driving accordingly. X X X X X X ! 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). i To signal turns while being towed with the hazard warning flasher in use you can activate the combination switch for the left or right turn signal in the usual manner - only the selected turn signal will operate. Upon canceling the turn signal, the hazard warning flasher will operate again. Stranded vehicle Freeing a stranded vehicle, on which the wheels are dug into sand or mud, should be done with the greatest of care, especially if the vehicle is heavily loaded. Make sure the ignition is switched on. With the vehicle at a standstill, depress the brake pedal and keep it pressed. Shift the automatic transmission into neutral position N. Release the brake pedal. If engaged, release the parking brake. Switch on the hazard warning flasher (Y page 119). ! Keep in mind that it is important to have the ignition switched on. Removing the SmartKey from the starter switch or opening a front door with the ignition switched off will automatically shift the 384