2010 Mercedes GLK-Class Owner's Manual - Page 250

248 X Driving instructions Make sure the automatic transmission is in park position P (Y page 103). X Engage the parking brake for the vehicle (Y page 102). X Close all doors and the tailgate. X Attach the trailer. X Plug in all electrical connectors. RTake into consideration that when towing a trailer, the handling characteristics are different and less stable from those when operating the vehicle without a trailer. It is important to avoid sudden maneuvers. RThe Towing a trailer Operation There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailer towing. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only for where you reside, but also for where you will be driving. A good source for this information can be the police or local authorities. Note the following, when driving with a trailer: RIn vehicle and trailer combination is heavier, and therefore limited in acceleration and climbing ability, and has a larger braking distance. It is more prone to reacting to cross wind gusts, and requires more sensitive steering input. possible, do not brake abruptly, but rather engage the brake slightly at first to permit the trailer to activate its brake. Then increase the braking force. RIf order to gain skill and an understanding of the vehicle's behavior, you should practice turning, stopping and backing up in an area which is free of traffic. you start driving check the - RBefore trailer hitch break-away switch safety chains electrical connections lighting tires RAdjust RIf the mirrors (Y page 84) to permit unobstructed view beyond rear of trailer. the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving slowly, and then apply only the trailer brake controller by hand to make sure the brakes are working properly. secure items in the trailer to prevent load shifts while driving. towing a trailer, check occasionally to make sure the load is secure, and that trailer lighting and brakes (if so equipped) are functioning properly. RAlways RWhen ! If the trailer should begin to sway, reduce the vehicle's speed immediately. Do not attempt to straighten out the tow vehicle and trailer by increasing the speed. RIf the transmission shifts between gears on inclines repeatedly, shift to a lower gear range manually (Y page 106). Select 4, 3, 2 or 1. A lower gear and reduction of speed reduces the chance of engine overloading and/or overheating. RWhen going down an incline, shift into a lower gear and use the engine's braking effect. Avoid riding the brakes, thus overheating the vehicle and trailer brakes (if so equipped). RIf the engine coolant rises to an extremely high temperature when the air conditioning is on, turn off the air conditioning system. Engine coolant heat can be additionally vented by opening the windows, switching the climate control fan speed to high and setting the temperature control to the maximum. RDuring a passing maneuver extreme care must be exercised since your vehicle with a trailer will require additional passing