258 OperationIn the “Operation” section you will find de-
tailed information on operating, maintain-
ing and caring for your vehicle. The first 1000 miles (1500 km)
The more cautiously you treat your vehicle
during the break-in period, the more satis-
fied you will be with its performance later
on.
Drive your vehicle during the first
1 000 miles (1500 km) at varying but
moderate vehicle and engine speeds.
During this period, avoid heavy loads
(full throttle driving) and excessive en-
gine speeds (no more than
2/3 of max-
imum rpm in each gear).
Avoid accelerating by kickdown.
Do not attempt to slow the vehicle
down by shifting to a lower gear using
the gear selector lever.
Select positions3, 2 or1 only when
driving at moderate speeds (for hill
driving).
Select C as the preferred shift program
(page 169) for the first 1 000 miles
(1500 km).After 1000 miles (1500 km), you may
gradually increase vehicle and engine
speeds to the permissible maximum.
All of the above instructions, as may apply
to your vehicle type, also apply when driv-
ing the first 1000 miles (1500 km) after
the engine or the rear differential has been
replaced.
!
Additional instructions for AMG vehicles:
During the first 1000 miles (1500 km), do
not exceed a speed of 85 mph (140 km/h).
During this period, avoid engine speeds
above 4500 rpm (SL 55 AMG) or 4000 rpm
(SL 65 AMG) in each gear.
i
Always obey applicable speed limits.
