All-wheel drive ensures permanent drive for all four wheels, and together with ESP® it improves the traction of the vehicle.
With the OM651 and OM642 engines, the all-wheel drive must be switched on More. With the OM654 engine, there is intelligent closed-loop control of the drive torque between the front and rear axles.
The traction control of the all-wheel drive also takes place via the brake system. Therefore, the brake system can overheat during extreme off-road use. In this case, ease off the accelerator pedal or stop to allow the brake system to cool down.
When pulling away, make use of the traction control integrated in ESP®. Depress the accelerator pedal as far as necessary.
Take your foot off the accelerator pedal, slowly, while the vehicle is in motion.
In wintry driving conditions, always use winter tyres (M+S tyres) and, if necessary, snow chains More. Only in this way can the maximum effect of all-wheel drive be achieved.
Use DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) when driving downhill off-road More.
If you fail to adapt your driving style or if you are inattentive, the all-wheel drive system can neither reduce the risk of an accident nor override the laws of physics. The all-wheel drive system cannot take road, weather and traffic conditions into account. The all-wheel drive system is only an aid. You are responsible for maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front, for vehicle speed, for braking in good time and for staying in lane.
If you operate vehicles with all-wheel drive on a one-axle test stand, you may damage the drivetrain or the brake system.
If you tow the vehicle with a raised axle, the transfer case can get damaged. Such damage is not covered by Mercedes-Benz implied warranty.