XClose all doors and the tailgate.XAttach the trailer.XPlug in all electrical connectors.
iVehicles with vehicle level control:
When you are towing a trailer, the vehicle
level always remains in the highway setting.
The following applies additionally when
towing a trailer:
R The vehicle is lowered to the highway
level when it reaches a speed of 5 mph
(8 km/h) if not set to highway level.
R The highspeed level is not available.
The restrictions that apply to towing also
apply when using accessories that are
connected to the trailer power socket, such
as a bicycle rack.
Towing a trailer
There are many different laws, including
speed limit restrictions, having to do with
trailer towing. Make sure your rig will be legal,
not only for where you reside, but also for
where you will be driving. A good source for
this information can be the police or local
authorities.
Note the following, when driving with a trailer:
R In order to gain skill and an understanding
of the vehicle’s behavior, you should
practice turning, stopping and backing up
in an area which is free of traffic.
R Before you start driving check the
- trailer hitch
- break-away switch
- safety chains
- electrical connections
- lighting
- tires
R Adjust the mirrors ( Y page 89) to permit
unobstructed view beyond rear of trailer.
R If the trailer has electric brakes, start your
vehicle and trailer moving slowly, and then
apply only the trailer brake controller by
hand to make sure the brakes are working
properly.
R Always secure items in the trailer to
prevent load shifts while driving.
R When towing a trailer, check occasionally
to make sure the load is secure, and that
trailer lighting and brakes (if so equipped)
are functioning properly.
R Take into consideration that when towing a
trailer, the handling characteristics are
different and less stable from those when
operating the vehicle without a trailer.
It is important to avoid sudden maneuvers.
R The vehicle and trailer combination is
heavier, and therefore limited in
acceleration and climbing ability, and has a
larger braking distance.
It is more prone to reacting to cross wind
gusts, and requires more sensitive steering
input.
R If possible, do not brake abruptly, but
rather engage the brake slightly at first to
permit the trailer to activate its brake. Then
increase the braking force.
! If the trailer should begin to sway, reduce
the vehicle’s speed immediately.
Do not attempt to straighten out the tow
vehicle and trailer by increasing the speed.
R If the transmission shifts between gears on
inclines repeatedly, shift to a lower gear
range manually ( Y page 113). Select 4, 3 ,
2 or 1.
A lower gear and reduction of speed
reduces the chance of engine overloading
and/or overheating.
R On very steep inclines, not manageable
with automatic transmission in gear range
1 , switch on off-road driving program
( Y page 155).
R When going down an incline, shift into a
lower gear and use the engine’s braking
effect.256Driving instructionsOperation
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damage (i.e. chips from stones, vehicle
doors, etc.).
Engine cleaning
Prior to cleaning the engine compartment,
make sure to protect electrical components
and connectors from contact with water and
cleaning agents.
Corrosion protection, such as MB
Anticorrosion Wax should be applied to the
engine compartment after every engine
cleaning. Before applying, all control linkage
bushings and joints should be lubricated. The
poly-V-belt and all pulleys should be
protected from any wax.
Vehicle washing
In the winter, thoroughly remove all traces of
road salt as soon as possible.
When washing the vehicle underbody, do not
forget to clean the inner sides of the wheels.
i Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO:
If a door handle is hit by a strong jet of
water, and a SmartKey is within
approximately 3 ft (1 m) of the vehicle, it
could be inadvertently locked or unlocked.
Hand-wash
XDo not use hot water or wash your vehicle
in direct sunlight.XOnly use a soft, wet cloth or sponge to
clean the vehicle.XOnly use a mild vehicle wash detergent,
such as Mercedes-Benz approved Car
Shampoo.XThoroughly spray the vehicle with a
diffused jet of water.XDo not spray directly towards the
ventilation intake.XUse plenty of water and rinse the sponge
and chamois frequently.XRinse with clean water and dry with a
chamois thoroughly.Do not allow cleaning agents to dry on the
finish.
Automatic car wash
You can have your vehicle washed in an
automatic car wash from the start. Brushless
car washes are preferable.
XTo protect the filter system, activate the air
recirculation mode using button d on
the climate control panel.
! Do not clean your vehicle in an automatic
touchless car wash which uses caustic
spray. Caustic spray will damage the paint
or ornamental moldings.
If the vehicle is very dirty, prewash it before
running it through the automatic car wash.
! Make sure the combination switch is set
to wiper setting $. Otherwise, the rain
sensor could activate and cause the wipers
to move unintentionally. This may lead to
vehicle damage.
Due to the width of the vehicle, fold in
exterior rear view mirrors prior to running
the vehicle through an automatic car wash
to prevent damage to the mirrors.
XWhen taking the vehicle through an
automatic conveyor-type car wash:
Make sure the automatic transmission
remains in neutral position N. Observe
instructions, see “Remaining in neutral
position N” ( Y page 111).
When leaving the automatic car wash, make
sure the mirrors are folded out.
After running the vehicle through an
automatic car wash, wipe any wax off of the
windshield and the wiper blade inserts. This
will prevent smears and reduce wiping noise
which can be caused by residual wax on the
windshield.
Ornamental moldings
XFor regular cleaning and care of ornamental
moldings, use a damp cloth.262Vehicle careOperation
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Display messagesPossible causes/consequences and M SolutionsbTurn
Signal
Rear Left
or
Turn
Signal
Rear RightThe left or right rear turn signal lamp is malfunctioning. A
substitute bulb is being used.XRear lamps with bulbs: Replace the bulb as soon as
possible ( Y page 311).XRear lamps with LEDs: Contact an authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center as soon as possible.bTurn
Signal
Front Left
or
Turn
Signal
Front
RightThe left or right front turn signal lamp is malfunctioning. A
substitute bulb is being used.XReplace the bulb as soon as possible ( Y page 311).bTurn
Signal
Left
Mirror
or
Turn
Signal
Right
MirrorThe turn signal in the left or right exterior rear view mirror is
malfunctioning. This message will only appear if all LEDs have
stopped working.XContact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center as soon as
possible.
Tires
Display messagesPossible causes/consequences and M SolutionshTire
pressure(s
) Please
CorrectThe tire inflation pressure is too low in at least one tire.
or
The tire inflation pressure of the individual tires differ from
each other significantly.XCheck and correct tire inflation pressure as required
( Y page 221).hTire
Pressure
Caution:
Tire
DefectAt least one tire is deflating.XCarefully bring the vehicle to a halt, avoiding abrupt
steering and braking maneuvers.XIf necessary, change the wheel ( Y page 319).296Vehicle status messages in the multifunction displayPractical hints
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RSynchronize the power tilt/sliding
sunroof ( Y page 186).
R Synchronize the exterior rear view
mirrors ( Y page 91).
Charging the battery
GWarning!
Never charge a battery while still installed in
the vehicle unless the accessory battery
charge unit approved by Mercedes-Benz is
being used. Gases may escape during
charging and could cause an explosion that
may result in personal injury, paint damage or
corrosion.
An accessory battery charge unit specially
adapted for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and
tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz is
available. It permits the charging of the
battery in its installed position. Contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for
information and availability.
Charge battery in accordance with the
separate instructions for the accessory
battery charger.
Have the battery charged at an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center. If you charge the
battery yourself, follow the operating
instructions for your charging device.
Only use a battery charge unit with a
maximum charging voltage of 14.8 V.
XCharge battery in accordance with the
instructions of the battery charger
manufacturer.
Jump starting
GWarning!
Failure to follow these directions will cause
damage to the electronic components, and
can lead to a battery explosion and severe
injury or death.
Never lean over batteries while connecting or
jump starting. You might get injured.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not
allow this fluid to come in contact with eyes,
skin or clothing. In case it does, immediately
flush affected area with water, and seek
medical help if necessary.
A battery will also produce hydrogen gas,
which is flammable and explosive. Keep
flames or sparks away from battery, avoid
improper connection of jumper cables,
smoking, etc.
Attempting to jump start a frozen battery can
result in it exploding, causing personal injury.
Read all instructions before proceeding.GWarning!
HYBRID vehicles: It is imperative that you read
the HYBRID Supplemental Operating
Instructions included in your vehicle literature
portfolio. You may otherwise not recognize
potential danger.
! Do not tow-start the vehicle. You could
otherwise seriously damage the automatic
transmission which is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
! Jump starting should only be performed
using the jump-start terminals located in
the engine compartment.
Avoid repeated and lengthy starting
attempts.
Do not attempt to start the engine using a
battery quick-charge unit.
If the engine does not run after several
unsuccessful starting attempts, have it
checked at the nearest authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
Excessive unburned fuel generated by
repeated failed starting attempts may
336Jump startingPractical hints
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Vehicle specification ML 350 BlueTEC
4MATIC (164.125)
The quoted data apply only to the standard
vehicle. Contact an authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center for the corresponding data of all
special bodies and special equipment.Engine ΜL 350 BlueTEC 4MATICEngine, type642Mode of operationDiesel 4-stroke engineNo. of cylinders6Bore3.27 in (83.00 mm)Stroke3.62 in (92.00 mm)Total piston
displacement182.3 cu in
(2 987 cm 3
)Compression
ratio16.5:1Output acc. to
SAE J 1349210 hp/3 400 rpm
(157 kW/3 400 rpm)Maximum torque
acc. to SAE J 1349400 lb-ft/
1 600 - 2 400 rpm
(543 Nm/
1 600 - 2 400 rpm)Maximum engine
speed4 500 rpmFiring order1-4-2-5-3-6Poly-V-belt2 035 mmElectrical system
ΜL 350 BlueTEC 4MATICAlternator14 V/220 AStarter motor12 V/2.0 kWBattery12 V/95 AhMain dimensions
ΜL 350 BlueTEC 4MATICOverall vehicle
length188.5 in (4 788 mm)Overall vehicle
width 3483.6 in (2
124 mm)Overall vehicle
height71.5 in (1 815 mm) 3569.8 - 73.0 in
(1 774 - 1 854 mm) 36Wheelbase114.8 in (2
915 mm)Track, front63.7 in (1 619 mm)Track, rear63.8 in (1 621 mm)Ground clearance8.3 in (210 mm) 357.3 - 10.3 in
(186 - 261 mm) 36Turning circle39.0 ft (11.6 m)Weights ΜL 350 BlueTEC 4MATICRoof loadmax. 220 lb (100 kg)
Vehicle specification ML 350
(164.156)
The quoted data apply only to the standard
vehicle. Contact an authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center for the corresponding data of all
special bodies and special equipment.
Engine ΜL 350Engine, type272Mode of operation4-stroke engine,
gasoline injectionNo. of cylinders634 Exterior rear view mirrors folded out.
35 Vehicles with steel suspension.
36 Depending on the set vehicle level (vehicles with air suspension program).348Vehicle specification ML 350 (164.156)Technical data
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Engine ΜL 350Bore3.66 in (92.90 mm)Stroke3.39 in (86.00 mm)Total piston
displacement213.5 cu in
(3 498 cm 3
)Compression
ratio10.7:1Output acc. to
SAE J 1349 37268 hp/6
000 rpm
(200 kW/6 000 rpm)Maximum torque
acc. to SAE J 1349258 lb-ft/
2 400 - 5 000 rpm
(350 Nm/
2 400 - 5 000 rpm)Maximum engine
speed6 500 rpmFiring order1-4-3-6-2-5Poly-V-belt2 398 mmElectrical system ML 350Alternator14 V/180 AStarter motor12 V/1.4 kWBattery12 V/70 AhSpark plugs, typeBosch Y 7 MPP33Spark plugs,
electrode gap0.031 in (0.8 mm)Spark plugs,
tightening torque15 - 18 lb-ft
(20 - 25 Nm)Main dimensions ΜL 350Overall vehicle
length188.5 in (4 788 mm)Overall vehicle
width 3883.6 in (2
124 mm)Overall vehicle
height71.5 in (1 815 mm)Wheelbase114.8 in (2 915 mm)Track, front64.0 in (1 627 mm)Track, rear64.1 in (1 629 mm)Ground clearance8.3 in (210 mm)Turning circle39.0 ft (11.6 m)Weights ΜL 350Roof loadmax. 220 lb (100 kg)
Vehicle specification ML 350 4MATIC
(164.186)
The quoted data apply only to the standard
vehicle. Contact an authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center for the corresponding data of all
special bodies and special equipment.
Engine ΜL 350 4MATICEngine, type272Mode of operation4-stroke engine,
gasoline injectionNo. of cylinders6Bore3.66 in (92.90 mm)Stroke3.39 in (86.00 mm)Total piston
displacement213.5 cu in
(3 498 cm 3
)37 Premium fuel required. Performance may vary with fuel octane rating.
38 Exterior rear view mirrors folded out.Vehicle specification ML 350 4MATIC (164.186)349Technical data164_AKB; 7; 31, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-11T12:07:36+02:00 - Seite 349Z
Engine ΜL 350 4MATICCompression
ratio10.7:1Output acc. to
SAE J 1349 39268 hp/6
000 rpm
(200 kW/6 000 rpm)Maximum torque
acc. to SAE J 1349258 lb-ft/
2 400 - 5 000 rpm
(350 Nm/
2 400 - 5 000 rpm)Maximum engine
speed6 500 rpmFiring order1-4-3-6-2-5Poly-V-belt2 398 mmElectrical system ML 350 4MATICAlternator14 V/180 AStarter motor12 V/1.4 kWBattery12 V/70 AhSpark plugs, typeBosch Y 7 MPP33Spark plugs,
electrode gap0.031 in (0.8 mm)Spark plugs,
tightening torque15 - 18 lb-ft
(20 - 25 Nm)Main dimensions ΜL 350 4MATICOverall vehicle
length188.5 in (4 788 mm)Overall vehicle
width 4083.6 in (2
124 mm)Overall vehicle
height71.5 in (1 815 mm) 4169.8 - 73.0 in
(1 774 - 1 854 mm) 42Main dimensions ΜL 350 4MATICWheelbase114.8 in (2
915 mm)Track, front64.0 in (1 627 mm)Track, rear64.1 in (1 629 mm)Ground clearance8.3 in (210 mm) 417.3 - 10.3 in
(186 - 261 mm) 42Turning circle39.0 ft (11.6 m)Weights ΜL 350 4MATICRoof loadmax. 220 lb (100 kg)
Vehicle specification ML 550 4MATIC
(164.172)
The quoted data apply only to the standard
vehicle. Contact an authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center for the corresponding data of all
special bodies and special equipment.
Engine ML 550 4MATICEngine, type273Mode of operation4-stroke engine,
gasoline injectionNo. of cylinders8Bore3.86 in (98.00 mm)Stroke3.56 in (90.50 mm)Total piston
displacement333.2 cu in
(5 461 cm 3
)Compression
ratio10.7:139 Premium fuel required. Performance may vary with fuel octane rating.
40 Exterior rear view mirrors folded out.
41 Vehicles with steel suspension.
42 Depending on the set vehicle level (vehicles with air suspension program).350Vehicle specification ML 550 4MATIC (164.172)Technical data
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Engine ML 550 4MATICOutput acc. to
SAE J 1349 43382 hp/6
000 rpm
(285 kW/6 000 rpm)Maximum torque
acc. to SAE J 1349391 lb-ft/
2 800 - 4 800 rpm
(530 Nm/
2 800 - 4 800 rpm)Maximum engine
speed6 500 rpmFiring order1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8Poly-V-belt2 398 mmElectrical system ML 550 4MATICAlternator14 V/180 AStarter motor12 V/1.4 kWBattery12 V/95 AhSpark plugs, typeNGK PLKR 7ASpark plugs,
electrode gap0.031 in (0.8 mm)Spark plugs,
tightening torque15 - 18 lb-ft
(20 - 25 Nm)Main dimensions ΜL 550 4MATICOverall vehicle
length188.5 in (4 788 mm)Overall vehicle
width 4483.6 in (2
124 mm)Overall vehicle
height71.5 in (1 815 mm) 4569.8 - 73.0 in
(1 774 - 1 854 mm) 46Wheelbase114.8 in (2
915 mm)Main dimensions ΜL 550 4MATICTrack, front63.7 in (1 619 mm)Track, rear63.8 in (1 621 mm)Ground clearance8.3 in (210 mm) 457.3 - 10.3 in
(186 - 261 mm) 46Turning circle39.0 ft (11.6 m)Weights ΜL 550 4MATICRoof loadmax. 220 lb (100 kg)
Vehicle specification ML 63 AMG
(164.177)
The quoted data apply only to the standard
vehicle. Contact an authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center for the corresponding data of all
special bodies and special equipment.
Engine ML 63 AMGEngine, type156Mode of operation4-stroke engine,
gasoline injectionNo. of cylinders8Bore4.02 in (102.20 mm)Stroke3.72 in (94.60 mm)Total piston
displacement378.8 cu in
(6 208 cm 3
)Compression
ratio11.3:1Output acc. to
SAE J 1349 47503 hp/6
800 rpm
(375 kW/6 800 rpm)43
Premium fuel required. Performance may vary with fuel octane rating.
44 Exterior rear view mirrors folded out.
45 Vehicles with steel suspension.
46 Depending on the set vehicle level (vehicles with air suspension program).
47 Premium fuel required. Performance may vary with fuel octane rating.Vehicle specification ML 63 AMG (164.177)351Technical data164_AKB; 7; 31, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-11T12:07:36+02:00 - Seite 351Z