2009 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 134

Controls in detail Automatic transmission Effect Shift the automatic transmission into reverse gear R only when the vehicle is stopped. Effect ë Neutral position 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 the automatic transmission into neutral position N while driving. Exception: If the ESP® is deactivated or malfunctioning, shift the automatic transmission into neutral position N if the vehicle is in danger of skidding. Effect The automatic transmission shifts automatically. All forward gears are available. Driving tips Kickdown Use the kickdown when you want maximum acceleration. X Depress the accelerator pedal past the point of resistance. Depending on the engine speed the automatic transmission shifts into a lower gear. ! Coasting the vehicle, or driving for any other reason with the automatic transmission in neutral position N can result in transmission damage that is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. ê Drive position Working on the vehicle G Warning! When working on the vehicle, engage the parking brake and shift the automatic transmission into park position P. Otherwise the vehicle could roll away which could result in an accident and/or serious personal injury. 132