2016 MERCEDES-BENZ GLA-Class towing

XPress button:again so that indicator
lamp ;goes out.
You have selected Comfort mode.
The AMG Suspension System COMFORT
message appears in the multifunction dis-
play.
4MATIC
!
Never tow the vehicle with one axle
raised. This may damage the differential.
Damage of this sort is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. All
wheels must remain either on the ground or be fully raised. Observe the instructions for
towing the vehicle with all wheels in full
contact with the ground.
4MATIC, together with ESP
®, improves the
traction of your vehicle whenever a drive
wheel spins due to insufficient grip.
If you fail to adapt your driving style, 4MATIC
can neither reduce the risk of accident nor
override the laws of physics. 4MATIC cannot
take account of road, weather and traffic con- ditions. 4MATIC is only an aid. You are
responsible for the distance to the vehicle in
front, for vehicle speed, for braking in good
time and for staying in your lane.
If a drive wheel spins due to insufficient grip:
ROnly depress the accelerator pedal as far as
necessary when pulling away.
RAccelerate less when driving.
iIn wintry driving conditions, the maximum
effect of 4MATIC can only be achieved if
you use winter tires (M+S tires), with snow
chains if necessary.
DSR
General notes
iDSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) is only
available for vehicles with the Off-Road
Engineering package. DSR is an aid to assist you when driving down-
hill. It keeps the speed of travel at the speed
selected on the on-board computer. The
steeper the downhill gradient, the greater the
DSR braking effect on the vehicle. When driv-
ing on flat stretches of road or on an uphill
gradient, the DSR braking effect is minimal or
nonexistent.
DSR controls the vehicle’s speed when it is
activated and the transmission is in position
D
,R or N. You can drive at a higher or a lower
speed than that set on the on-board computer
at any time by accelerating or braking.
Important safety notes
GWARNING
If the speed driven and the set speed deviate and you activate DSR on a slippery road sur-
face, the wheels may lose traction. There is an
increased danger of skidding and accidents.
Before switching DSR on, please take into
consideration the road surface and the differ- ence between driving speed and the set
speed.
If you fail to adapt your driving style, DSR can
neither reduce the risk of accident nor over-
ride the laws of physics. DSR cannot take
account of road, weather and traffic condi-
tions. DSR is only an aid. You are responsible
for the distance to the vehicle in front, for
vehicle speed, for braking in good time and for
staying in your lane.
You are always responsible for keeping con-
trol of the vehicle and for assessing whether
the downhill gradient can be managed. DSR
may not always be able to keep to the set
speed, depending on road surface and tire
conditions. Select a set speed suitable for the
prevailing conditions and when necessary,
apply the brakes manually.
Further information about "Driving off-road"
(
Ypage 180).
Driving systems197
Driving and parking
Z

The indicator lamp in Roadside Assistance
button:flashes while the call is active.
The multifunction display shows the Con‐
necting Callmessage. The audio output
is muted.
If a connection can be made, the Call Con‐
nectedmessage appears in the multifunction
display.
If a mobile phone network and GPS reception
are available, the system transfers data to the
Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center,
for example:
Rcurrent location of the vehicle
Rvehicle identification number
iThe audio system or COMAND display
indicates that a call is active. During the
call, you can change to the navigation menu
by pressing the NAVI button on COMAND,
for example.
Voice output is not available.
A voice connection is established between
the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance
Center and the vehicle occupants.
From the remote malfunction diagnosis, the
Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center
can ascertain the nature of the problem
(
Ypage 298).
The Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance
Center either sends a qualified Mercedes-
Benz technician or makes arrangements for
your vehicle to be transported to the nearest
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
You may be charged for services such as
repair work and/or towing.
Further details are available in your mbrace
manual.
iThe system has not been able to initiate a
Roadside Assistance call, if:
Rthe indicator lamp for Roadside Assis-
tance call button :is flashing continu-
ously.
Rno voice connection to the Mercedes-
Benz Customer Assistance Center was
established. This can occur if the relevant mobile phone
network is not available, for example.
The
Call Failed
message appears in the
multifunction display.
XTo end a call: press the~button on the
multifunction steering wheel.
or
XPress the corresponding button for ending
a phone call on the audio system or on
COMAND.
MB Info call button
XPress MB Info call button :.
This initiates a call to the Mercedes-Benz
Customer Assistance Center.
The indicator lamp in MB Info call button :
flashes while the connection is being made.
The multifunction display shows the Con‐
nectingCallmessage. The audio system
is muted.
If a connection can be made, the Call Con‐
nectedmessage appears in the multifunction
display.
If a mobile phone network and GPS reception
are available, the system transfers data to the
Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center,
for example:
Rcurrent location of the vehicle
Rvehicle identification number
iThe audio system or COMAND display
indicates that a call is active. During the
call, you can change to the navigation menu
Features295
Stowage and features
Z

should drive for a few minutes after clean-
ing. Braking heats the brake discs and the
brake pads/linings, thus drying them. The
vehicle can then be parked.
Regular care of your vehicle is a condition for
retaining the quality in the long term.
Use care products and cleaning agents rec-
ommended and approved by Mercedes-Benz.
Washing the vehicle and cleaning the
paintwork
Automatic car wash
GWARNING
Braking efficiency is reduced after washing
the vehicle. There is a risk of an accident.
After the vehicle has been washed, brake
carefully while paying attention to the traffic
conditions until full braking power is restored.
!If DISTRONIC PLUS or the HOLD function
is activated, the vehicle brakes automati-
cally in certain situations.
To prevent damage to the vehicle, deacti-
vate DISTRONIC PLUS and the HOLD func-
tion in the following or other similar situa-
tions:
Rwhen towing the vehicle
Rin the car wash
!Never clean your vehicle in a Touchless
Automatic Car Wash as these use special
cleaning agents. These cleaning agents can
damage the paintwork or plastic parts.
!Make sure that the automatic transmis-
sion is in position Nwhen washing your
vehicle in a tow-through car wash. The vehi-
cle could be damaged if the transmission is
in another position.
!Make sure that:
Rthe side windows and the sliding sunroof are fully closed.
Rthe ventilation/heating is switched off
(the OFF button has been pressed/the
airflow control is set to position 0).
Rthe windshield wiper switch is in position
0.
Otherwise, the vehicle might be damaged.
You can wash the vehicle in an automatic car wash from the very start.
If the vehicle is very dirty, pre-wash it before
cleaning it in an automatic car wash.
After using an automatic car wash, wipe off
wax from the windshield and the wiper
blades. This will prevent smears and reduce
wiping noises caused by residue on the wind-
shield.
Washing by hand
In some countries, washing by hand is only
allowed at specially equipped washing bays.
Observe the legal requirements in each coun-
try.
XDo not use hot water and do not wash the
vehicle in direct sunlight.
XUse a soft sponge to clean.
XUse a mild cleaning agent, such as a car
shampoo approved by Mercedes-Benz.
XThoroughly hose down the vehicle with a
gentle jet of water.
XDo not point the water jet directly towardsthe air inlet.
XUse plenty of water and rinse out the
sponge frequently.
XRinse the vehicle with clean water and dry
thoroughly with a chamois.
XDo not let the cleaning agent dry on the
paintwork.
Carefully remove all deposits of road salt as
soon as possible when driving in winter.
314Care
Maintenance and care

Useful information............................322
Where will I find...? ...........................322
Flat tire .............................................. 322
Battery (vehicle) ................................ 327
Jump-starting .................................... 331
Towing and tow-starting ..................333
Fuses .................................................. 337
321
Breakdown assistance

Useful information
i
This Operator's Manual describes all
models and all standard and optional equip-
ment of your vehicle available at the time of
publication of the Operator's Manual.
Country-specific differences are possible.
Please note that your vehicle may not be
equipped with all features described. This
also applies to safety-related systems and
functions.
iRead the information on qualified special-
ist workshops (
Ypage 25).
Where will I find...?
Vehicle tool kit
General notes
Vehicles with a TIREFIT kit: the TIREFIT kit is
located in the stowage well under the cargo
compartment floor.
Vehicles with a tire-change tool kit: the tire-
change tool kit is in the stowage well under
the cargo compartment floor.
iApart from certain country-specific varia-
tions, the vehicles are not equipped with a
tire-change tool kit. Some tools for chang-
ing a wheel are specific to the vehicle. For
more information on which tire changing
tools are required and approved to perform
a wheel change on your vehicle, consult a
qualified specialist workshop.
Tools required for changing a wheel may
include, for example:
RJack
RWheel chock
RLug wrench
RAlignment bolt
Vehicles with a TIREFIT kit
:Tire inflation compressor
;Towing eye
=Tire sealant filler bottle
XOpen the tailgate.
XLift the cargo compartment floor upwards
(
Ypage 287).
XUse the TIREFIT kit (Ypage 324).
iTowing eye ;is located under tire infla-
tion compressor :.
Vehicles with a tire-change tool kit
XOpen the tailgate.
XLift the cargo compartment floor upwards
(
Ypage 287).
XRemove the tire-change tool kit.
The tire-change tool kit contains:
RJack
RLug wrench
ROne pair of gloves
RFolding wheel chock
Flat tire
Preparing the vehicle
Your vehicle may be equipped with:
RMOExtended tires (tires with run-flat prop-
erties) (
Ypage 323)
Vehicle preparation is not necessary on
vehicles with MOExtended tires
Ra TIREFIT kit (Ypage 322)
322Flat tire
Breakdown assistance

XStart the engine of the donor vehicle and run it at idling speed.
XConnect negative terminal?of donor battery Bto ground point Aof your vehicle using
the jumper cable, connecting the jumper cable to battery of other vehicle Bfirst.
XIf the battery is fully discharged, leave the battery that is being used to jump-start connected
for a few minutes before attempting to start. This charges the battery slightly.
XStart the engine.
XBefore disconnecting the jumper cables, let the engine run for several minutes.
XFirst, remove the jumper cables from ground point Aand negative terminal ?, then from
positive clamp ;and positive terminal =. Begin each time at the contacts on your own
vehicle first.
XClose cover :of positive terminal ;after removing the jumper cables.
XClose the hood.
XHave the battery checked at a qualified specialist workshop.
iJump-starting is not considered to be a normal operating condition.
iJumper cables and further information regarding jump-starting can be obtained at any
qualified specialist workshop.
Towing and tow-starting
Important safety notes
GWARNING
Functions relevant to safety are restricted or
no longer available if:
Rthe engine is not running.
Rthe brake system or the power steering is
malfunctioning.
Rthere is a malfunction in the voltage supply or the vehicle's electrical system.
If your vehicle is being towed, much more
force may be necessary to steer or brake.
There is a risk of an accident.
In such cases, use a tow bar. Before towing,
make sure that the steering moves freely.
GWARNING
You can no longer steer the vehicle if the
steering wheel lock has been engaged. There
is a risk of an accident.
Always switch off the ignition when towing the
vehicle with a tow cable or a tow bar.
GWARNING
When towing or tow-starting another vehicle
and its weight is greater than the permissible
gross weight of your vehicle, the:
Rthe towing eye could detach itself
Rthe vehicle/trailer combination could roll-
over.
There is a risk of an accident.
When towing or tow-starting another vehicle,
its weight should not be greater than the per- missible gross weight of your vehicle.
Details on the permissible gross vehicle
weight of your vehicle can be found on the
vehicle identification plate (
Ypage 376).
!When COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST
PLUS, DISTRONIC PLUS or the HOLD func-
tion is activated, the vehicle brakes auto-
matically in certain situations. To avoid
damage to the vehicle, deactivate these
systems in the following or similar situa-
tions:
Rwhen towing the vehicle
Rin the car wash
Towing and tow-starting333
Breakdown assistance
Z

!Make sure that the electric parking brake
is released. If the electric parking brake is
faulty, visit a qualified specialist workshop.
!Only secure the tow rope or tow bar at the
towing eyes. Otherwise, the vehicle could
be damaged.
!Do not use the towing eyes for recovery
purposes as this could damage the vehicle. If in doubt, recover the vehicle with a crane.
!When towing, pull away slowly and
smoothly. If the tractive power is too high,
the vehicles could be damaged.
!The vehicle can be towed a maximum of
30 miles (50km). The towing speed of
30 mph (50km/h) must not be exceeded.
If the vehicle has to be towed more than
30 miles (50km), the front axle must be
raised or the entire vehicle raised and
transported.
!Do not tow with sling-type equipment.
This could damage the vehicle.
!When towing vehicles with KEYLESS-GO,
use the key instead of the Start/Stop but-
ton. Otherwise, the automatic transmission
may shift to position Pwhen the driver's or
front-passenger door are opened, which
could lead to damage to the transmission.
!Vehicles with automatic transmission
must not be started by tow-starting. This
could otherwise damage the transmission.
It is better to have the vehicle transported
than to have it towed away.
If the vehicle can no longer be driven because of an accident or breakdown, you have the
following options:
RTransporting the vehicle
As a rule, you should have the vehicle trans-
ported.
RTowing the vehicle with a tow rope or tow
bar
Only tow the vehicle in exceptional cases. The battery must be connected and charged.
Otherwise, you:
Rcannot turn the SmartKey to position 2in
the ignition lock
Rcannot release the electric parking brake
Rcannot shift the transmission to position N
The function of the electric parking brake and the parking lock is dependent on the on-board
voltage.
If the on-board voltage is low or there is a
system malfunction, it is possible that:
Rthe electric parking brake may not be
applied in certain circumstances, or
Rthe transmission may not be shifted to P
Switch off non-essential consumers, e.g. the
radio.
Disarm the automatic locking feature before
the vehicle is towed (
Ypage 230). You could
otherwise be locked out when pushing or
towing the vehicle.
Installing/removing the towing eye
Installing the towing eye
The brackets for the screw-in towing eye are
located in the bumpers. They are at the rear
and at the front, under covers :.
334Towing and tow-starting
Breakdown assistance

XRemove thetowin geye from th estowage
space.
The towin geye is locate dwit hth evehicl e
tool ki tunder th ecargo compartmen tfloor
(
Ypage 322).
Vehicles wit hth eTIREFI Tkit: th etowin g
eye is beneat hth etire inflation compres-
sor .
XPress th emar kon cover :inward sin th e
direction of th earrow.
XTak ecover :off th eopening.
XScrew in th etowin geye clockwise to th e
stop.
Removin gth etowing eye
XUnscrew and remove th etowin geye.
XAttac hcover :to th ebumper and press
until it engages.
XPlac eth etowin geye in th estowage well
beneat hth ecargo compartmen tfloor in
th ecargo compartmen t (
Ypage 322).
XVehicles withth eTIREFI Tkit: put bac kth e
tire inflation compressor.
Towing th e vehicle wit hth e fr ont axle
raised
Observ eth eimportant safet ynote swhen
towin gyour vehicl ewit hth efron taxl eraised
(
Ypage 333).
Only vehicles withou t4MATIC can be
towe dwit hth efront axle raised .
!Vehicles with4MATIC mus tno tbe towed
wit heither th efron tor th erear axl eraised,
as doin gso will damag eth etransmission .
Vehicles wit h4MATIC may either be towed
away wit hbot haxles on th eground or be loa-
ded up and transported.
!The ignition mus tbe switched off if th e
vehicl eis bein gtowed wit hth efron taxl e
raised. Otherwise ,ES P
®may interven eand
damag eth ebrak esystem.
XOn vehicles wit hKEYLESS-G Oor th e
KEYLESS-G Ostar tfunction: you must
use th eSmartKey instead of th eStart/Sto p
butto n (
Ypage 150).
XMakesur ethat th evehicl eis stationary.
XTurn th eSmartKey to position 2in th eigni-
tion lock.
XWhe nth evehicl eis stationary, depress th e
brak epedal and keep it depressed.
XShift th eautomatic transmission to posi-
tion P.
XReleas eth ebrak epedal .
XReleas eth eelectric parkin gbrake.
XSwitc hoff th eautomatic locking
(
Ypage 230).
XSwitc hon th ehazard warnin glamp s
(
Ypage 119).
XTurn th eSmartKey in th eignition loc kto
position 0and leav eth eSmartKey in th e
ignition lock.
Towing a vehicle wit hbot haxles on
th egroun d
It is important that you observ eth esafet y
instruction swhen towin gaway your vehicl e
(
Ypage 333).
XOn vehicles wit hKEYLESS-G Oor th e
KEYLESS-G Ostar tfunction: you must
use th eSmartKey instead of th eStart/Sto p
butto n (
Ypage 150).
The automatic transmission automatically
shift sto position Pwhen you open th edriver's
or front-passenger doo ror when you remove
th eSmartKey from th eignition lock. In order
to ensur ethat th eautomatic transmission
stays in position Nwhen towin gth evehicle,
you mus tobserv eth efollowin gpoints :
XMakesur ethat th evehicl eis stationary.
XTurn th eSmartKey to position 2in th eigni-
tion lock.
Towing and tow-starting335
Breakdown assistance
Z