2011 Mercedes GL-Class Owner's Manual - Page 212
2011 Mercedes GL-Class Manual
Page 212 highlights
210 X Towing a trailer Make sure that the automatic transmission is set to position P. X Apply the vehicle's parking brake. X Start the engine. X Select highway level. X Vehicles with the adaptive damping system: set ADS to AUTO or COMF. X Switch off the engine. X Close all doors and the tailgate. X Couple up the trailer. X Establish all electrical connections. stopping and reversing in a traffic-free location. RBefore driving, check: - the trailer coupling - the safety switch for braked trailers - the safety chains - the electrical connections - the lights - the wheels RAdjust the exterior mirrors to provide an unobstructed view of the rear section of the trailer. RIf the trailer features electronically controlled brakes, pull away the vehicle/ trailer combination carefully, manually brake using the brake controller, and check the brakes for correct function. RSecure any objects on the trailer to prevent the cargo from slipping when the vehicle is in motion. RIf you couple up a trailer, regularly check the cargo for secure fastening and make sure that the trailer lamps and (if applicable) the trailer brakes are functioning correctly. RBear in mind that the handling will be less stable when towing a trailer than when driving without one. Avoid sudden steering movements. RThe vehicle/trailer combination is heavier, accelerates more slowly, has a decreased gradient climbing capability and a longer braking distance. It is more susceptible to side winds and requires more careful steering. RIf possible, avoid abrupt braking. Depress the brake pedal moderately at first, so that the trailer can activate its own brakes. Then increase the pressure on the brake pedal. RIf the automatic transmission continues to shift back and forth between two gears when driving up or downhill, restrict the shift range. Select shift range 4, 3, 2, or 1. A lower gear and lower speed reduce the risk of engine failure. Driving and parking i Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package: with a trailer attached, the vehicle will always remain at highway level. When coupling up a trailer, please observe the following: Rif highway level has not been set manually, the vehicle will automatically sink to highway level as soon as it reaches a speed of 5 mph (8 km/h). Rhigh-speed level is not available. These restrictions apply to all accessories powered through a connection to the trailer power socket of your vehicle, e.g. a bicycle carrier. Towing a trailer There are numerous legal requirements concerning the towing of a trailer, e.g. speed restrictions. Make sure that your vehicle/ trailer combination complies with the local requirements not only in your area of residence but also at any location to which you are traveling. The police and local authorities can provide reliable information. Please observe the following when towing a trailer: RTo acquaint yourself with driving with a trailer and with the resulting changes to handling, you should practice cornering,