2011 Mercedes GLK-Class Owner's Manual - Page 159
2011 Mercedes GLK-Class Manual
Page 159 highlights
Towing a trailer Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center should you require an explanation of information contained in this manual. 157 equipped with an anti-lock brake system. Doing so will result in a loss of function of the brake systems of both the vehicle and the trailer. ROnly install an approved trailer coupling on your vehicle. Further information on availability and on installation is available from any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. RThe bumpers of your vehicle are not suitable for installing detachable trailer couplings. RDo not install hired trailer couplings or other detachable trailer couplings on the bumpers of your vehicle. RTo reduce the risk of damage to the ball coupling, remove it from the ball coupling recess when not in use. 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 Coupling up a trailer Observe the maximum permissible trailer dimensions (width and length). Most federal states and all Canadian provinces require by law: Rsafety chains between the towing vehicle and the trailer. The chains should be crosswound under the trailer drawbar. They must be fastened to the vehicle's trailer coupling, not to the bumper or the axle. Allow for enough play in the chains to facilitate turning tight corners. Ra separate brake system for certain types of trailer. Ra safety switch for braked trailers. Check the specific legal requirements applicable to your federal state. If the trailer detaches from the towing vehicle, the safety switch applies the trailer's brakes. ! Do not connect the trailer's brake system (if featured) to the hydraulic brake system of the towing vehicle, as the latter is acquaint yourself with driving with a trailer and with the resulting changes to handling, you should practice cornering, 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 Z Driving and parking General information i The vehicle's wiring harness features a line to the brake indicator lamp. X Make sure that the automatic transmission is set to position P. X Apply the vehicle's parking brake. X Close all doors and the tailgate. X Couple up the trailer. X Establish all electrical connections.