2011 Mercedes R-Class Owner's Manual - Page 197
2011 Mercedes R-Class Manual
Page 197 highlights
Towing a trailer 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. RWhen driving downhill, shift to a lower gear to utilize the engine's braking effect. Avoid continuous brake application as this may overheat the vehicle brakes and, if installed, the trailer brakes. RIf the coolant temperature increases dramatically while the air-conditioning system is switched on, switch off the airconditioning system. Coolant heat can additionally be dissipated by opening the windows and by setting the blower fan and the interior temperature to maximum. RWhen overtaking, pay particular attention to the extended length of your vehicle/ trailer combination. Due to the length of your vehicle/trailer combination, you will have to travel an additional distance beyond the vehicle you are overtaking before returning to the previous lane. 195 Decoupling a trailer G Warning! Vehicles with AIRMATIC: While you are coupling or decoupling a trailer, make sure nobody locks or unlocks the vehicle and/or opens or closes doors or the tailgate. The vehicle's level could change and you could endanger yourself and/or others as a result. Make sure that you do not operate the ADS switch or the vehicle level control system when coupling/decoupling the trailer. X Make sure that the automatic transmission is set to position P. X Apply the vehicle's parking brake. X Start the engine. X Close all doors and the tailgate. X Apply the trailer's parking brake. G Warning! Vehicles with AIRMATIC: As soon as you disconnect the electrical connection between the trailer and the vehicle, the vehicle will lower. To help avoid personal injury, make sure no one is near the wheel housing or underneath the vehicle before the electrical connection is disconnected. When you decouple the trailer, the vehicle is temporarily raised because the springs are relieved of load. Be especially careful during this process, as you could otherwise injure yourself and/or others. Make sure that any Z Driving and parking