winter tires MERCEDES-BENZ GL550 2010 X164 Owner's Manual

Resume function ............................ 147
Setting current speed ....................145
Cup holders ........................................ 209
Curb weight ....................................... 255
Customer Assistance Center (CAC) ... 23
Customer Relations Department ....... 23
D
Dashboard see Instrument cluster
Data recording ..................................... 24
Date, Setting ...................................... 135
Daytime running lamp mode .............. 99
Switching on or off ......................... 136
Deep water
see Standing water
Defroster
Rear window .................................. 191
Windshield ............................. 179, 189
Delayed shut-off
Exterior lamps ................................ 137
Interior lighting .............................. 138
Department of Transportation
see DOT
Diesel engine
Preglow indicator lamp ....................29
Diesel fuel
see Fuel
Differential locks ............................... 121
A few words about .........................122
Messages in the multifunction
display ................................... 123, 302
Switching ....................................... 122
Difficulties
While driving .................................. 111
With starting .................................. 110
Digital clock
see Clock
Digital speedometer ......................... 129
Dimensions (vehicle) see Vehicle specification
Direction of rotation (tires) .............. 246
Displays
Digital speedometer ......................129
Distronic ........................................ 149
Maintenance service indicator .......273
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 287
Multifunction display .....................127
Outside temperature .............129, 135
Symbol messages ..........................299
Text messages ............................... 288
Trip computer ................................ 141
Vehicle status message memory ...131
Vehicle system settings .................132
Distronic ............................................ 147
Cleaning system sensor cover .......278
Control system .............................. 131
Distance warning function .............155
Distance warning
lamp ...................................... 149, 319
Driving with .................................... 153
Menu ............................................. 150
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 294
Resume function ............................ 152
Sensor cover .................................. 278
Speed settings ............................... 151
Door control panel .............................. 34
Door handles ........................................ 34
Doors
Child safety locks ............................ 60
Locking/unlocking (KEYLESS-GO) ...71
Locking/unlocking (SmartKey) ........70
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 304
Opening from inside ......................... 74
Remote door unlock (Tele Aid) .......219
Unlocking (Mechanical key) ...........323
DOT (Department of
Transportation) .................................. 255
Downhill Speed Regulation see DSR
Drinking and driving ......................... 259
Driving
Abroad ........................................... 272
Hydroplaning ................................. 262
Instructions ........................... 108, 259
In winter ........................................ 258
Off-road ......................................... 262
Problems ....................................... 111
Safety systems ................................ 61
Systems ......................................... 144Index7X164_AKB; 5; 31, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-11T12:30:16+02:00 - Seite 7

Self-test
BabySmart™ .................................... 47
OCS (Occupant Classification
System) ........................................... 45
Tele Aid .......................................... 215
Service
see Maintenance
Service, parts .................................... 360
Service and warranty information ..... 20
Service intervals see Maintenance System, Service
indicator message
Service life (tires) .............................. 247
Settings
Factory setting (KEYLESS-GO) .........72
Factory setting (SmartKey) ..............71
Memory function .............................. 96
Menu ............................................. 132
Selective setting (KEYLESS-GO) .......73
Selective setting (SmartKey) ............71
Side impact air bags ........................... 41
Side marker lamps
Cleaning lenses ............................. 277
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 311
Sidewall (tires) .................................. 256
Side windows see Power windows
SmartKey
see Key, SmartKey
SmartKey with KEYLESS-GO
see Key, SmartKey
Snow chains ...................................... 258
Snow tires see Winter tires
Spare wheel ....................................... 365
Mounting ....................................... 340
Storage location ............................ 286
Speedometer ............................... 28, 149
Speed settings
Cruise control ................................ 145
Distronic ........................................ 151
Resume function ...................147, 152
Sport Utility Vehicle
see SUV SRS
Indicator lamp ...................29, 36, 318
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 301
Standing water, driving through ...... 262
Starter switch positions
KEYLESS-GO .................................... 80
SmartKey ......................................... 80
Starting difficulties (engine) ............ 110
Starting the engine ........................... 108
Steering column see Multifunction steering wheel,
Adjustment
Steering wheel
see Multifunction steering wheel
Steering wheel gearshift control ..... 118
Stolen Vehicle Recovery Services ... 219
Storage compartments ..................... 207
Storing tires ....................................... 248
Stranded vehicle ............................... 355
Sunroof see Power tilt/sliding sunroof
Sunshade
Rear panorama roof .......................211
Sun visors .......................................... 210
Suspension tuning see Air suspension program
SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) ................. 22
T
Tachometer .................................. 29, 125
Overspeed range ........................... 125
Tailgate
Closing ............................................. 75
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 304
Opening ........................................... 75
Power tailgate .................................. 76
Tail lamps ........................................... 329
Cleaning lenses ............................. 277
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 312
Tar stains ........................................... 276
Technical data
Air conditioning refrigerant ............371
Brake fluid ..................................... 371
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Problems under-/overinflation ......236
Retreads ........................................ 233
Rims and tires (technical data) ......365
Rotation ......................................... 249
Service life ..................................... 247
Sizes .............................................. 365
Snow chains .................................. 258
Speed rating .......................... 252, 256
Storing ........................................... 248
Temperature .......................... 235, 249
Terminology ................................... 254
TIREFIT (tire repair kit) ...................337
Tire Identification Number .............256
Tire pressure loss warning system . 237
TPMS low tire pressure/
malfunction telltale ........................321
Traction ................................. 248, 256
Tread ............................................. 257
Tread depth ........................... 247, 257
Treadwear ...................................... 248
Treadwear indicators .............247, 257
Vehicle maximum load on ..............257
Wear pattern .................................. 249
Winter tires ............................ 257, 365
Tire speed rating ....................... 252, 256
Tongue Weight Rating see TWR
Top tether
see Children in the vehicle
Total load limit ................................... 256
Towing
Towing eye bolt .............................. 353
Trailer .................................... 118, 269
Vehicle ........................................... 352
Towing eye bolt ................................. 353
Traction ...................................... 248, 256
Trailer towing ............................ 118, 269
Coupling a trailer ........................... 270
Decoupling ..................................... 271
Electrical connections .................... 269
Towing ........................................... 270
Trailer hitch ................................... 269
Weights and ratings .......................269
Transfer case ..................................... 119
Gear ranges ................................... 120
LOW RANGE mode ......................... 120
Switching LOW RANGE mode ........121Transmission
see Automatic transmission
Transmission fluid level .................... 231
Transmission gear selector lever see Gear selector lever
Transmission positions .................... 116
Traveling abroad ............................... 272
Tread (tires) ....................................... 257
Tread depth (tires) .................... 247, 257
Treadwear .......................................... 248
Treadwear indicators (tires) .... 247, 257
Trip computer menu ......................... 141
Trip odometer, resetting ................... 125
Turning off the engine ...................... 113
Turn signals ....................................... 100
Cleaning lenses ............................. 277
Indicator lamps ................................ 28
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 313
TWR (Tongue Weight Rating) ........... 257
U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards .................................. 248, 257
Units
Selecting digital speedometer
display mode ................................. 134
Selecting speedometer/
odometer display mode .................134
Unleaded gasoline, premium ........... 371
Unlocking the vehicle
KEYLESS-GO .................................... 71
Manually ........................................ 323
SmartKey ......................................... 70
Upholstery, cleaning ......................... 280
Useful features .................................. 209
V
Vehicle
Battery ........................................... 348
Care ............................................... 275
Control system .............................. 125
Identification Number (VIN) ...........360
Locking/unlocking ........................... 70
Lowering (wheel change) ...............344
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Modifications and alterations,
Operating safety .............................. 23
Towing ........................................... 352
Unlocking/locking manually ..........323
Vehicle configuration menu ............. 140
Vehicle dimensions see Vehicle specification
Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) ................................................... 360
Vehicle jack see Jack
Vehicle level control
see Air suspension program
Vehicle lighting .................................... 97
Vehicle loading
Cargo tie-down rings ...................... 200
Cargo volume, expanding ..............201
Carriers .......................................... 196
Instructions .................................... 194
Load limit ....................................... 243
Terminology ................................... 254
Vehicle maximum load on the tire ... 257
Vehicle specification
GL 350 BlueTEC ............................. 362
GL 450 ........................................... 362
GL 550 ........................................... 363
Vehicle status message memory .... 131
Vehicle tool kit .................................. 284
Vehicle washing see Vehicle care
Vehicle weights
see Vehicle specification
W
Warning lamps see Lamps, Indicator and warning
Warning sounds
Distance warning function .............155
Distronic ........................................ 149
Driver’s or passenger’s seat belt .....51
Parking brake ................................ 300
Parktronic system ..........................169
Seat belt telltale ............................ 317
Warranty coverage ............................ 360
Washer and headlamp cleaning
system ................................................ 375
Washer fluid
Messages in the multifunction
display ........................................... 305
Mixing ratio .................................... 375
Refilling .......................................... 232
Washing the vehicle .......................... 275
Wear pattern (tires) .......................... 249
Weights (vehicle) see Vehicle specification
Wheel
Changing ....................................... 336
Removing ....................................... 343
Spare ............................................. 336
Tightening torque ........................... 344
Wheels, sizes ..................................... 365
Wheels, Tires and .............................. 233
Window curtain air bags ..................... 42
Windows see Power windows
Windows, cleaning ............................ 278
Windshield
Cleaning wiper blades .................... 278
Infrared reflecting ..........................223
Washer fluid ................................... 375
Wipers ........................................... 103
Windshield wipers
Replacing wiper blades ..................334
Winter cover .............................. 230, 257
Winter driving
Instructions .................................... 258
Radiator cover ............................... 257
Snow chains .................................. 258
Tires ............................................... 257
Winter tires ................................ 257, 365
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achieved with winter tires, or snow chains
as required.
Safety notesGWarning!
The following factors increase the risk of
accidents:
R Excessive speed, especially in turns
R Wet and slippery road surfaces
R Following another vehicle too closely
The driving safety systems described in this
section cannot reduce these risks or prevent
the natural laws of physics from acting on the
vehicle. They cannot increase braking or
steering efficiency beyond that afforded by
the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires
or the traction afforded.
Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can
prevent accidents.
The capabilities of a vehicle equipped with the
driving safety systems described in this
section must never be exploited in a reckless
or dangerous manner which could jeopardize
the user’s safety or the safety of others.
Always adjust your driving style to the
prevailing road and weather conditions and
keep a safe distance to other road users and
objects on the street.
If a driving system malfunctions, other driving
safety systems may also switch off. Observe
indicator and warning lamps that may come
on as well as messages in the multifunction
display that may appear.
ABS
GObserve Safety notes, see page 62.GWarning!
Do not pump the brake pedal. Use firm, steady
brake pedal pressure instead. Pumping the
brake pedal defeats the purpose of the ABS
and significantly reduces braking
effectiveness.
The Antilock Brake System (ABS) regulates
the brake pressure so that the wheels do not
lock during braking. This allows you to
maintain the ability to steer your vehicle.
The ABS is functional above a speed of
approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) independent
of road surface conditions.
On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will
respond even to light brake pressure.
The ABS indicator lamp ! indicator lamp
in the instrument cluster comes on when you
switch on the ignition. It goes out when the
engine is running.
Braking
At the instant one of the wheels is about to
lock up, a slight pulsation can be felt in the
brake pedal. The pulsation indicates that the
ABS is in the regulating mode.
XKeep firm and steady pressure on the brake
pedal while you feel the pulsation.
Continuous, steady brake pedal pressure
yields the advantages provided by the ABS,
namely braking power and the ability to steer
the vehicle.
The pulsating brake pedal can be an
indication of hazardous road conditions and
functions as a reminder to take extra care
while driving.
Emergency brake maneuver
XKeep continuous full pressure on the brake
pedal.GWarning!
If the ABS malfunctions, other driving safety
systems such as the BAS or the ESP ®
are also
switched off. Observe indicator and warning
lamps that may come on as well as messages
in the multifunction display that may appear.
62Driving safety systemsSafety and security
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iThe message can be cleared by pressing
the V, U, & or * button on
the multifunction steering wheel.
When the highway level is reached, indicator
lamps = go out and the following message
appears in the multifunction display for
5 seconds:
iThe vehicle is lowered to the highway level
automatically if the vehicle speed is above
60 mph (96 km/h).
All-wheel drive (4MATIC)
In vehicles with all-wheel drive (4MATIC),
both axles are powered at all times when the
vehicle is being operated. The 4MATIC
improves traction in conjunction with the
ESP® (Y page 63) and the Electronic Traction
System (4-ETS) (Y page 64).
GWarning!
If a drive wheel is spinning due to insufficient
traction:
RWhile driving off, apply as little throttle as
possible.
RWhile driving, ease up on the accelerator
pedal.
RAdapt your speed and driving style to the
prevailing road conditions.
Failure to observe these guidelines could
cause the vehicle to skid.
The 4MATIC cannot prevent accidents
resulting from excessive speed.
! Do not tow with one axle raised. Doing so
could damage the transfer case, which is
not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty. All wheels must be on or off the
ground. Observe instructions for towing the
vehicle with all wheels on the ground.
! Only conduct operational or performance
tests on a two-axle dynamometer. If such
tests are necessary, contact an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center. You could
otherwise seriously damage the brake
system and/or the transfer case which is
not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty.
iIn winter operation, the maximum
effectiveness of the 4MATIC is only
achieved with winter tires (Y page 257) or
snow chains as required.
Parktronic system
The Parktronic system is an electronic
parking aid with ultrasonic sensors designed
to assist the driver during parking maneuvers.
The Parktronic system indicates the relative
distance between the vehicle and an obstacle
visually and audibly.
The Parktronic system is activated
automatically when
Ryou switch on the ignition
and
Ryou release the parking brake
and
Rthe automatic transmission is in drive
position D, reverse gear R, or neutral
position N
The Parktronic system deactivates at speeds
above approximately 11 mph (18 km/h). At
lower speeds, the Parktronic system
activates again.
The Parktronic system also deactivates when
you shift the automatic transmission into
park position P or engage the parking brake.
The Parktronic system monitors the
surroundings of your vehicle with six sensors
166Driving systemsControls in detail
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Vehicle equipment ............................226
The first 1000 miles (1500 km) .......226
At the gas station .............................226
Engine compartment ........................228
Tires and wheels ...............................233
Winter driving ...................................257
Driving instructions ..........................259
Maintenance ......................................273
Vehicle care .......................................275
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For more information, see “Washer system
and headlamp cleaning system”
(Y page 370).
Brake fluid level
! If you find that the brake fluid in the brake
fluid reservoir has fallen to the minimum
mark or below, have the brake system
checked for brake pad thickness and leaks
immediately. Contact an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center immediately. Do
not add brake fluid as this will not solve the
problem. For more information, see
“Practical hints”.
When checking the brake fluid level, the
vehicle must be parked on level ground.
The brake fluid level is correct when it is
between lower mark (MIN) ; and upper
mark (MAX) : of the brake fluid reservoir.
Tires and wheels
Safety notes
Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center
for information on tested and recommended
rims and tires for summer and winter
operation. They can also offer advice
concerning tire service and purchase.
GWarning!
Replace rims or tires with the same
designation, manufacturer and type as shown
on the original part. For further information
contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
If incorrectly sized rims and tires are
mounted, the wheel brakes or suspension
components can be damaged. Also, the
operating clearance of the wheels and the
tires may no longer be correct.
GWarning!
Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire
tread is worn to minimum tread depth, or if
the tires have sustained damage, replace
them.
When replacing rims, only use genuine
Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the
particular rim type. Failure to do so can result
in the bolts loosening and possibly an
accident.
Retreaded tires are not tested or
recommended by Mercedes-Benz, since
previous damage cannot always be
recognized on retreads. The operating safety
of the vehicle cannot be assured when such
tires are used.
GWarning!
If you feel a sudden significant vibration or
ride disturbance, or you suspect that possible
damage to your vehicle has occurred, you
should turn on the hazard warning flashers,
carefully slow down, and drive with caution to
an area which is a safe distance from the road.
Inspect the tires and the vehicle underbody
for possible damage. If the vehicle or tires
appear unsafe, have the vehicle towed to the
nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or
tire dealer for repairs.
GWarning!
Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects
the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You
could lose control of the vehicle. Continued
driving with a flat tire or driving at high speed
with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-
up and possibly a fire.
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You may only use the MOExtended system in
conjunction with the tire pressure loss
warning system ( Y page 237) or the
Advanced TPMS ( Y page 239).
i Vehicles with MOExtended system are
not factory-equipped with a TIREFIT kit.
When retrofitting with tires that do not have
run-flat characteristics, e.g. winter tires,
you should also equip your vehicle with a
TIREFIT kit. TIREFIT kits are available at any
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
For information on driving in case of pressure
loss in one or more tires (emergency mode),
see the “Practical hints” section
( Y page 345).
Tire care and maintenance
GWarning!
Regularly check the tires for damage.
Damaged tires can cause tire inflation
pressure loss. As a result, you could lose
control of your vehicle.
Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire
tread is worn to minimum tread depth, or if
the tires have sustained damage, replace
them.
Check the tire inflation pressure at least once
a month. For more information on checking
tire inflation pressure, see “Recommended
tire inflation pressure” ( Y page 234).
Tire inspection
Every time you check the tire inflation
pressure, you should also inspect your tires
for the following:
R excessive treadwear ( Y page 247)
R cord or fabric showing through the tire’s
rubber
R bumps, bulges, cuts, cracks or splits in the
tread or side of the tire
Replace the tire if you find any of the above
conditions.
Make sure you also inspect the spare tire
periodically for condition and inflation. Spare
tires will age and become worn over time even
if never used, and thus should be inspected
and replaced when necessary.
Life of tire GWarning!
Tires and spare tire should be replaced after
6 years, regardless of the remaining tread.
The service life of a tire is dependent upon
varying factors including but not limited to:
R Driving style
R Tire inflation pressure
R Distance driven
Tread depth
GWarning!
Although the applicable federal motor vehicle
safety laws consider a tire to be worn when
the treadwear indicators (TWI) become visible
at approximately 1
/ 16 in (1.6 mm), we
recommend that you do not allow your tires
to wear down to that level. As tread depth
approaches 1
/ 8 in (3 mm), the adhesion
properties on a wet road are sharply reduced.
Depending upon the weather and/or road
surface (conditions), the tire traction varies
widely.
Do not allow your tires to wear down too far.
Adhesion properties on wet roads are sharply
reduced at tread depths of less than 1
/ 8 in
(3 mm).
Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by
law. These indicators are located in six places
on the tread circumference and become
visible at a tread depth of approximately
1 / 16 in (1.6 mm), at which point the tire is
considered worn and should be replaced.
The recommended minimum tire tread depth
for summer tires is 1
/ 8 in (3 mm). The
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recommended minimum tire tread depth for
winter tires is 1/6 in (4 mm).
Treadwear indicator : appears as a solid
band across the tread.
Storing tires
! Keep unmounted tires in a cool, dry place
with as little exposure to light as possible.
Protect tires from contact with oil, grease
and fuels.
Cleaning tires
! Never use a round nozzle to power wash
tires. The intense jet of water can result in
damage to the tire.
Always replace a damaged tire.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards
The Uniform Tire Quality Grading is a U.S.
Government requirement designed to give
drivers consistent and reliable information
regarding tire performance. Tire
manufacturers are required to grade tires
based on three performance factors:
treadwear :, traction ;, and temperature
resistance =. Although not a Government of
Canada requirement, all tires made for sale in
North America have these grades branded on
the sidewall.
iFor illustration purposes only. Actual data
on tires are specific to each vehicle and
may vary from data shown in above
illustration.
Quality grades can be found, where
applicable, on the tire sidewall between tread
shoulder and maximum section width. For
example:
TreadwearTractionTemperature200AAA
All passenger car tires must conform to
federal safety requirements in addition to
these grades.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified
U.S. Government test course. For example, a
tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half
(1 1/2) times as well on the government
course as a tire graded 100.
The relative performance of tires depends
upon the actual conditions of their use,
however, and may depart significantly from
the norm due to variations in driving habits,
service practices and differences in road
characteristics and climate.
Traction
GWarning!
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on straight-ahead braking traction
248Tires and wheelsOperation
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