2016 MERCEDES-BENZ GLE tow bar

Average weight of the vehicle
occupants (definition) .................... 406
Bar (definition) ............................... 406
Changing a wheel .......................... 408
Characteristics .............................. 406
Checking ........................................ 388
Curb weight (definition) ................. 407
Definition of terms ......................... 406
Direction of rotation ...................... 409
Display message ............................ 309
Distribution of the vehicle occu-
pants (definition) ............................ 408
DOT (Department of Transporta-
tion) (definition) ............................. 406
DOT, Tire Identification Number
(TIN) ............................................... 405
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
(definition) ..................................... 406
General notes ................................ 413
GTW (Gross Trailer Weight) (defi-
nition) ............................................ 407
GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) (def-
inition) ........................................... 407
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rat-
ing) (definition) .............................. 407
Important safety notes .................. 387
Increased vehicle weight due to
optional equipment (definition) ...... 406
Information on driving .................... 387
Kilopascal (kPa) (definition) ........... 407
Labeling (overview) ........................ 403
Load bearing index (definition) ...... 408
Load index ..................................... 405
Load index (definition) ................... 407
M+S tires ....................................... 389
Maximum load on a tire (defini-
tion) ............................................... 407
Maximum loaded vehicle weight
(definition) ..................................... 407
Maximum permissible tire pres-
sure (definition) ............................. 407
Maximum tire load ......................... 405
Maximum tire load (definition) ....... 407
MOExtended tires .......................... 389
Optional equipment weight (defi-
nition) ............................................ 408
PSI (pounds per sq uare inch) (def-
i
nition) ........................................... 407 Replacing ....................................... 408
Service life ..................................... 388
Sidewall (definition) ....................... 408
Speed rating (definition) ................ 407
Storing ........................................... 409
Structure and characteristics
(definition) ..................................... 406
Temperature .................................. 402
TIN (Tire Identification Number)
(definition) ..................................... 408
Tire bead (definition) ...................... 407
Tire pressure (definition) ................ 407
Tire pressures (recommended) ...... 406
Tire size (data) ............................... 413
Tire size designation, load-bearing
capacity, speed rating .................... 403
Tire tread ....................................... 388
Tire tread (definition) ..................... 407
Total load limit (definition) ............. 408
Traction ......................................... 402
Traction (definition) ....................... 408
Tread wear ..................................... 402
TWR (permissible trailer drawbar
noseweight) (definition) ................. 408
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards ...................................... 401
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards (definition) .................... 406
Wear indicator (definition) ............. 408
Wheel and tire combination ........... 414
Wheel rim (definition) .................... 406
see Flat tire
Top Tether ............................................ 62
Tow-starting
Emergency engine starting ............ 383
Important safety notes .................. 381
Towing a trailer
Axle load, permissible .................... 445
Cleaning the trailer tow hitch ......... 366
Coupling up a trailer ...................... 259
Decoupling a trailer ....................... 261
Driving tips .................................... 257
ESP ®
(Electronic Stability Pro-
gram) ............................................... 73
Important safety notes .................. 256
Installing the ball coupling ............. 258
Lights display message .................. 292
Mo u nting dimensions .................... 444 Index 21

Power supply ................................. 262
Pulling away with a trailer .............. 149
Removing the ball coupling ............ 262
Trailer loads ................................... 445
Towing away
Important safety guidelines ........... 381
Installing the towing eye ............... .3 82
Notes for 4MATIC vehicles ............ 383
Removing the towing eye .............. .3 82
Transporting the vehicle ................ 383
With both axles on the ground ....... 382
Towing eye ......................................... 369
Traffic Sign Assist
Display message ............................ 304
Function/notes ............................ .2 26
Important safety notes .................. 226
Instrument cluster display ............. 226
Trailer coupling
see Towing a trailer
Trailer loads and drawbar nose-
weights ............................................... 261
Trailer towing
Active Blind Spot Assist ................. 233
Active Lane Keeping Assist ............ 235
Blind Spot Assist ............................ 229
PARKTRONIC ................................. 210
Permissible trailer loads and
drawbar noseweights ..................... 261
Transfer case ..................................... 162
Transmission
see Automatic transmission
Transmission position display ......... 154
Transmission position display
(DIRECT SELECT lever) ..................... .1 54
Transporting the vehicle .................. 383
Traveling uphill
Brow of hill ..................................... 190
Driving downhill ............................ .1 90
Maximum gradient-climbing capa-
bility ............................................... 190
Trim pieces (cleaning instruc-
tions) ................................................. .3 67
Trip computer (on-board com-
puter) ................................................. .2 66
Trip odometer
Calling up ....................................... 266
Resetting (on-board computer) ...... 267 Trunk
see Tailgate
Turn signals
Changing bul bs (front) ................... 121
Di spl ay message ............................ 292
Switching on/off ........................... 116
Two-way radio
Frequencies ................................... 431
Installation ..................................... 431
Transmission output (maximum) .... 431
TWR (Tongue Weight Rating) (defi-
nition) ................................................. 408
Type identification plate
see Vehicle identification plate
U Unlocking
Emergency unlocking ....................... 86
From inside the vehicle (central
unlocking button) ............................ .8 5
Upshift indicator (on-board com-
puter, Mercedes-AMG vehicles) ...... .2 77
V
Vanity mirror (in the sun visor) ....... .3 41
Vehicle
Correct use ...................................... 29
Data acquisition ............................... 30
Display message ............................ 311
Equipment ....................................... 26
Individual settings .......................... 273
Limited Warranty ............................ .3 0
Loading .......................................... 397
Locking (in an emergency) ............... 86
Locking (SmartKey) .......................... 78
Lowering ........................................ 412
Maintenance .................................... 27
Parking for a long period ................ 181
Pulling away ................................... 148
Raising ........................................... 410
Reporting problems ......................... 29
Securing from rolling away ............ 409
Towing away .................................. 381
Transporting .................................. 383
Unlocking (in an emergency) ........... 86
Unlocking (SmartKey) ...................... 7822
Index

The flap closes again when: R
you have finished the maneuvering process R
you switch off the engine R
you open the cargo compartment
Observe the notes on cleaning ( Y
page 365).
For technical reasons, the flap may remain
open briefly after the rear view camera has
been deactivated.
Activating/deactivating the rear view
camera X
To activate: make sure that the SmartKey is
in position 2 in the ignition lock.X
Make sure that the Activation by R gear
function is selected in the multimedia system;
see the Digital Operator's Manual. X
Engage reverse gear.
The rear view camera flap opens. The multi-
media system shows the area behind the vehi-
cle with guide lines.
The image from the rear view camera is avail-
able throughout the maneuvering process.
To deactivate: the rear view camera deacti-
vates if you shift the transmission to P or after
driving forwards a short distance.
Displays in the multimedia system The rear view camera may show a distorted view
of obstacles, show them incorrectly or not at all.
The rear view camera does not show objects in
the following positions: R
very close to the rear bumper R
under the rear bumper R
in the area immediately above the tailgate
handle
! Objects not at ground level may appear to
be further away than they actually are, e.g.: R
the bumper of a parked vehicle R
the drawbar of a trailer R
the ball coupling of a trailer tow hitch R
the rear section of an HGV R
a slanted post
Use the guidelines only for orientation.
Approach objects no further than the bottom-
most guideline. C
Yellow guide line at a distance of approx-
imately 13 ft (4.0 m) from the rear of the
vehicle D
White guide line without turning the steering
wheel, vehicle width including the exterior
mirrors (static)

! Objects not at ground level may appear to
be further away than they actually are, e.g.: R
the bumper of a parked vehicle R
the drawbar of a trailer R
the ball coupling of a trailer tow hitch R
the rear section of an HGV R
a slanted post
Use the guidelines only for orientation.
Approach objects no further than the bottom-
most guideline.
Top view with picture from the rear view
camera
C
Yellow guide line at a distance of approx-
imately 13 ft (4.0 m) from the rear of the
vehicleD
Symbol for the split screen setting with top
view and rear view camera image

Hybrid drive system Problem
Possible causes/consequences and P Solutions
The hybrid drive system
has been switched off
automatically. You have been in an accident.
The hybrid drive system remains switched off if: R
the internal combustion engine cannot be restarted after a few
seconds. R
the red u restraint system warning lamp in the instrument clus-
ter is lit. X
Consult a qualified specialist workshop.
The hybrid drive system
has been switched off
automatically. The multi-
function display also
shows a display mes-
sage. An electrical short circuit has occurred in the hybrid drive system or an
electrical connection has been disconnected. X
Observe the additional display messages in the multifunction dis-
play ( Y
page 280). X
Consult a qualified specialist workshop.
Towing a trailer
Important safety notes
G WARNING
Installing an unsuitable ball coupling may
result in overloading of the trailer tow hitch
and the rear axle. This applies especially if the
ball coupling in question is longer or angled
differently. This could seriously impair the
driving characteristics and the trailer can
come loose. There is a risk of an accident.
You should only ever install a ball coupling
that has the permissible dimensions and that
is designed to meet your trailer-towing
requirements. Do not modify the ball coupling
or the trailer tow hitch.
You will find the values approved by the manu-
facturer on the vehicle identification plates and
those for the towing vehicle under "Technical
data" ( Y
page 445).
G WARNING
If the ball coupling is not installed correctly or
not secured with the bolt provided and the
corresponding spring cotter, the trailer may
come loose. There is a risk of an accident.
Always install and secure the ball coupling as
described. Before every journey, ensure that the ball coupling is secured with the bolt and
the corresponding spring cotter.
G WARNING
When the vehicle/trailer combination begins
to lurch, you could lose control of it. The vehi-
cle/trailer combination could even rollover.
There is a risk of an accident.
On no account should you attempt to
straighten up the vehicle/trailer combination
by increasing the speed. Reduce vehicle
speed and do not countersteer. Apply the
brake as necessary.
Please observe the manufacturer's operating
instructions for the trailer coupling if a detach-
able trailer coupling is used.
Couple and uncouple the trailer carefully. If you
do not couple the trailer to the towing vehicle
correctly, the trailer could become detached.
Make sure that the following values are not
exceeded: R
the permissible trailer drawbar noseweight R
the permissible trailer load R
the permissible rear axle load of the towing
vehicle R
the maximum permissible gross vehicle
weight of both the towing vehicle and the
trailer256
Towing a trailer
Driving and parking

The applicable permissible values, which must
not be exceeded, can be found: R
in the vehicle documents R
on the identification plates for the trailer tow
hitch and the trailer R
on the vehicle identification plate
If the values differ, the lowest value applies.
When towing a trailer, your vehicle's handling
characteristics will be different in comparison
with when driving without a trailer.
The vehicle/trailer combination: R
is heavier R
is restricted in its acceleration and gradient-
climbing capability R
has an increased braking distance R
is affected more by strong crosswinds R
demands more sensitive steering R
has a larger turning circle
This could impair the handling characteristics.
When towing a trailer, always adjust your speed
to the current road and weather conditions. Do
not exceed the maximum permissible speed for
your vehicle/trailer combination.
Notes on towing a trailer
General notes The GLE 550 e 4MATIC cannot be used to tow a
trailer. R
Do not exceed the legally prescribed maxi-
mum speed for vehicle/trailer combinations
in the relevant country.
This lowers the risk of an accident. R
Only install an approved trailer coupling on
your vehicle.
Further information on availability and on
installation is available from any authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center. R
The bumpers of your vehicle are not suitable
for installing detachable trailer couplings. R
Do not install hired trailer couplings or other
detachable trailer couplings on the bumpers
of your vehicle. R
If you no longer need the ball coupling,
remove it from the ball coupling recess. This
will reduce the risk of damage to the ball cou-
pling. When towing a trailer, set the tire pressure on
the rear axle of the towing vehicle for the max-
imum load. You will find the values in the tire
pressure table in the fuel filler flap of the vehicle
( Y
page 406).
Please note that when towing a trailer, the fol-
lowing driving systems have limited availability
or are not available at all: R
PARKTRONIC ( Y
page 210) R
Blind Spot Assist ( Y
page 227)R
Active Lane Keeping Assist ( Y
page 233)
On vehicles without level control, the height of
the ball coupling will alter according to the load
placed on the vehicle. If necessary, use a trailer
with a height-adjustable drawbar.
You will find installing dimensions and loads
under "Technical data" ( Y
page 444).
Driving tips Observe the information on ESP ®
trailer stabili-
zation ( Y
page 73) and on pulling away with a
trailer ( Y
page 149).
The maximum permissible speed for vehicle/
trailer combinations depends on the type of
trailer. Before beginning the journey, check the
trailer's documents to see what the maximum
permissible speed is. Observe the legally pre-
scribed maximum speed in the relevant country.
For certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the maxi-
mum permissible rear axle load is increased
when towing a trailer. See "Technical data" to
find out whether this applies to your vehicle
( Y
page 445). If you utilize any of the added
maximum rear axle load when towing a trailer,
the vehicle/trailer combination may not exceed
a maximum speed of 60 mph (100 km/ h) for
reasons concerning the operating permit. This
also applies in countries in which the permissi-
ble maximum speed for vehicle/trailer combi-
nations is above 60 mph (100 km/h).
When towing a trailer, your vehicle's handling
characteristics will be different in comparison
with when driving without a trailer.
Use the left-hand steering wheel paddle shifter
to shift into a lower gear in good time on long
and steep downhill gradients.
This also applies if you have activated cruise
control or DISTRONIC PLUS.
This will use the braking effect of the engine, so
that less braking will be required to maintain the
speed. This relieves the load on the brake sys-Towing a trailer 257
Driving and parking Z

X
Establish the electrical connection between
the vehicle and the trailer. X
Check that the trailer lighting system is work-
ing. X
Push the combination switch upwards/down-
wards and check whether the corresponding
turn signal on the trailer flashes.
A trailer that is connected is recognized only
when the electrical connection is established
correctly and when the lighting system is work-
ing properly. The function of other systems also
depends on this, for example: R
ESP ®
R
PARKTRONIC R
Active Parking Assist R
Active Blind Spot Assist R
Active Lane Keeping Assist
i Vehicles with the AIRMATIC package: if you
couple up a trailer, the vehicle always remains
at normal level. When coupling up a trailer,
please observe the following: R
If the normal level has not been set man-
ually, the vehicle is automatically lowered
to normal level. This is the case if a speed of
5 mph (8 km/h) is reached. R
The Sport drive program is not available.
These restrictions apply to all accessories
powered through a connection to the trailer
power socket of your vehicle, e.g. a bicycle
carrier.
Observe the maximum permissible trailer
dimensions (width and leng th).
M ost U.S. states and all Canadian provinces
require by law: R
Safety chains between the towing vehicle and
the trailer. The chains should be cross-wound
under the trailer drawbar. They must be fas-
tened to the vehicle's trailer coupling, not to
the bumper or the axle.
Leave enough play in the chains to make tight
cornering possible. R
A separate brake system for certain types of
trailer. R
Safety switch for braked trailers. Check the
specific legal requirements applicable to your
state.
If the trailer becomes detached from the tow-
ing vehicle, the safety switch applies the
trailer brakes. Towing a trailer There are numerous legal requirements con-
cerning the towing of a trailer, e.g. speed restric-
tions. Make sure that your car/trailer combina-
tion complies with the local regulations: R
in your place of residence R
in the location to which you are driving
The police and local authorities can provide reli-
able information.
Observe the following when towing a trailer: R
To gain driving experience and to become
accustomed to the new handling characteris-
tics, you should practice the following in a
traffic-free location: -
cornering -
stopping -
backing up R
Before driving, check: -
trailer tow hitch -
safety switch for braked trailers -
safety chains -
electrical connections -
lights -
wheels R
Adjust the exterior mirrors to provide an
unobstructed view of the rear section of the
trailer. R
If the trailer has electronically controlled
brakes, pull away carefully. Brake manually
using the brake controller and check whether
the brakes function correctly. R
Secure any objects on the trailer to prevent
the cargo from slipping when the vehicle is in
motion. R
When you couple up a trailer, check at regular
intervals that the load is firmly secured. If the
tra i ler is equipped with trailer lights and
brakes, check the trailer to ensure that these
are working. R
Bear in mind that the handling will be less
stable when towing a trailer than when driving
without one. Avoid sudden steering move-
ments. R
The 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.260
Towing a trailer
Driving an d parking

R
If possible, do not brake suddenly, but instead
depress the brake pedal moderately at first so
that the trailer can activate its brakes. Then
increase the pressure on the brake pedal. R
If the automatic transmission repeatedly
shifts between gears on uphill or downhill gra-
dients, shift to a lower gear using the left-hand
steering wheel paddle shifter.
A lower gear and lower speed reduce the risk
of engine failure. R
When 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 instal-
led, the trailer brakes. R
If the coolant temperature increases dramat-
ically while the air-conditioning system is
switched on, switch off the air-conditioning
system.
Coolant heat can also be dissipated by open-
ing the windows and switching the ventilation
blower and the interior temperature to the
highest level. R
When overtaking, pay particular attention to
the extended length of your vehicle/trailer
combination.
Due to the length of the vehicle/trailer com-
bination, you require additional road space in
relation to the vehicle you are overtaking
before you can change back to the original
lane.
Decoupling a trailer
G WARNING
If you uncouple a trailer with the overrun
brake engaged, you could trap your hand
between the vehicle and the trailer drawbar.
There is a risk of injury.
Do not uncouple a trailer if the overrun brake
is engaged.
G WARNING
Vehicles with level control:
The vehicle is lowered as soon as you discon-
nect the trailer cable. This could result in your
limbs or those of other people that are
between the vehicle body and tires or under- neath the vehicle being trapped. There is a
risk of injury.
Make sure that nobody is in the immediate
vicinity of the wheel housings or under the
vehicle when you disconnect the trailer cable.
! Do not disconnect a trailer with an engaged
overrun brake. Otherwise, your vehicle could
be damaged by the rebounding of the overrun
brake. X
Shift the transmission to position P .X
Apply the vehicle's electric parking brake. X
Start the engine. X
Close the doors and tailgate. X
Apply the trailer's parking brake. X
Detach the trailer cable and decouple the
trailer. X
Switch off the engine.
Permissible trailer loads and drawbar
loads
Weight specifications
Maximum allowable gross mass The gross vehicle weight of the trailer is calcu-
lated by adding the weight of the trailer to the
weight of the load and equipment on the trailer.
You will find installing dimensions and loads
under "Technical data" ( Y
page 444).
Permissible noseweight
You will find installing dimensions and loads
under "Technical data" ( Y
page 444).
Loading a trailer R
When loading the trailer, make sure that nei-
ther the permissible gross weight of the trailer
nor the gross vehicle weight are exceeded.
The permissible gross vehicle weight is indi-
cated on the identification plate located on
the B-pillar on the driver's side of the vehicle.
You can find the maximum permissible values
on the type plates of your vehicle and the
trailer. When calculating how much weightTowing a trailer 261
Driving and parking Z