tow MERCEDES-BENZ ML350 2010 W164 Owner's Guide

RCheck for brush or branches caught in the
underbody.
! Brush or branches could increase the
possibility of a fire, as well as cut fuel and/
or brake lines, puncture rubber bellows of
the axles or drive shafts.
R After continued operation in mud, sand,
water or other dirty conditions clean the
brake discs, wheels, brake pads and check
and clean axle joints.
R Conduct a brake test.
Trailer towing
GWarning!
Failure to use proper equipment and driving
technique can result in a loss of vehicle
control when towing a trailer.
Improper towing or failure to follow the
instructions in this manual can result in
vehicle damage and/or serious personal
injury. Follow the guidelines below carefully
to assure safe trailer operation.
Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center
should you require an explanation of
information contained in this manual.
Trailer hitch
R Only install a trailer hitch receiver approved
for your vehicle.
For information on availability and
installation, contact an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
R The bumpers on your vehicle are not
designed for use with clamp-type hitches.
Do not attach rental hitches or other
bumper-type hitches to them.
R To reduce the possibility of damage,
remove the hitch ball adapter from the
receiver when not in use.
Electrical connections
The vehicle is prewired to accept the seven-
wire harness included in the Mercedes-Benz
approved trailer hitch receiver kit.
i A four-pole conversion plug is available
from your authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center as a spare part.
For further information, contact an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
Vehicle and trailer weights and ratings
The Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) is the weight
of the trailer plus the weight of all cargo,
equipment, luggage, etc. loaded on the
trailer. The maximum permissible GTW to be
towed:
R Vehicles with 4MATIC: 7 200 lb (3 265 kg)
R Vehicles without 4MATIC: 4 630 lb
(2 100 kg)
Trailer Tongue Weight Rating (TWR) is the
maximum permissible weight on the trailer
tongue:
R Vehicles with 4MATIC: 576 lb (261 kg) limit
for Mercedes-Benz approved hitch receiver
R Vehicles without 4MATIC: 370 lb (168 kg)
limit for Mercedes-Benz approved hitch
receiver
Loading a trailer
R When loading a trailer, you should observe
that neither the permissible GTW, nor the
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) are
exceeded. The GVWR is indicated on the
certification label located on the driver’s
door B-pillar ( Y page 227).
Maximum permissible values are listed on
the safety compliance certification labels
for the vehicle and for the trailer to be
towed.
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The lowest value listed must be selected
when determining how the vehicle and
trailer are loaded.
R The tongue weight at the hitch ball must be
added to the rear axle weight to prevent
exceeding the rear Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR). The GAWR is indicated on
the certification label located on the
driver’s door B-pillar ( Y page 227).
i Mercedes-Benz recommends loading the
trailer in such a manner that it has a tongue
weight between 8 % and 15 % of the GTW.
i The weight of other accessories,
passengers and cargo will reduce the
maximum trailer weight and tongue weight
your vehicle can tow.
Checking weights of vehicle and trailer
R To assure that the towing vehicle and trailer
are in compliance with the maximum
permissible weight limits, have the loaded
rig (towing vehicle including driver,
passengers and cargo, trailer fully loaded)
weighed on a commercial scale.
R Check the vehicle’s front and rear gross
axle weight, the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
and tongue weight.
The values as measured must not exceed
the weight limits listed under “Vehicle and
trailer weights and ratings” ( Y page 254).
Coupling a trailer GWarning!
Vehicles with air suspension program: While
you are coupling or decoupling a trailer, make
sure nobody locks or unlocks the vehicle and/
or opens or closes doors or the tailgate.
The vehicle’s level could change and you
could endanger yourself and/or others as a
result.
Make sure that you do not operate the ADS
switch or the vehicle level control system
when coupling/decoupling the trailer.
Observe maximum permitted trailer
dimensions (width and length).
Most states and all Canadian provinces
require
R safety chains between the towing vehicle
and the trailer
The chains should be criss-crossed under
the trailer tongue. They must be attached
to the hitch receiver, and not to the
vehicle’s bumper or axle.
Make sure to leave enough slack in the
chains to permit turning corners.
R a separate brake system at various trailer
weights
R a break-away switch on trailers with a
separate brake system.
Check with your local state laws for specific
requirements.
The switch activates the trailer brakes in
the possible event that the trailer might
separate from the tow vehicle.
! Do not connect a trailer brake system (if
trailer is so equipped) directly to the
vehicle’s hydraulic brake system, as your
vehicle is equipped with antilock brakes. If
you do, neither the vehicle’s brakes nor the
trailer’s brakes will function properly.
i The provided vehicle electrical wiring
harness for trailer towing has a brake signal
wire for hook-up to a brake controller.XMake sure the automatic transmission is in
park position P (Y page 110).XEngage the parking brake for the vehicle
( Y page 107).XStart the engine ( Y page 103).XVehicles with vehicle level control:
Select the highway level ( Y page 156).XVehicles with Adaptive Damping System
(ADS):
Set the ADS to AUTO or COMF
( Y page 156).XTurn off the engine ( Y page 108).Driving instructions255Operation164_AKB; 7; 31, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-11T12:07:36+02:00 - Seite 255Z

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
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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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Vehicle equipment ............................268
Where will I find ...? ..........................268
Vehicle status messages in the
multifunction display .......................272
What to do if … ..................................297
Unlocking/locking manually ...........306
Resetting activated NECK-PRO
active front head restraints .............309
Replacing SmartKey batteries .........309
Replacing bulbs .................................311
Replacing wiper blades ....................318
Flat tire ..............................................319
Bleeding the fuel system (diesel
engine only) .......................................331
AdBlue® (diesel engine only) ...........331
Battery ...............................................334
Jump starting ....................................336
Towing the vehicle ............................338
Fuses ..................................................342
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Vehicle equipment
iThis Operator’s Manual describes all
features, standard or optional, potentially
available for your vehicle at the time of
purchase. Please be aware that your
vehicle might not be equipped with all
features described in this manual.
Where will I find ...?
First aid kit
iCheck expiration dates and contents for
completeness at least once a year and
replace missing/expired items.
The first aid kit is located on the driver’s side
in the cargo compartment behind the cover.
XTurn lock : by 90° in direction of the
arrow.
XFold down cover ;.
The first aid kit can be removed.
Vehicle tool kit
The vehicle tool kit is located in the space
underneath the cargo compartment floor.
The vehicle tool kit includes:
RAlignment bolt 23
RCollapsible wheel chock 23
RElectric air pump24
RFuse chart
RJack23
RReversible ratchet for jack23
RTIREFIT kit25
RTowing eye bolt
RWheel wrench23
RSpare wheel bolts26
XRemoving: Open the tailgate (Y page 75).XPush in floor handle ; as indicated by
arrow.
XLift cargo compartment floor : using floor
handle ;.23Vehicles with spare wheel only.24ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC (Canada vehicles) factory equipped with 20" wheels and vehicles with spare wheelwith collapsible tire only.25ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC (Canada vehicles) factory equipped with 20" wheels only.26Vehicles with Minispare wheel only.
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XRelease securing hook = (located below
the floor handle) from holder.
XEngage securing hook = on upper cargo
compartment lip ?.
! With the cargo compartment cover blind
installed behind the rear seats, disengage
cargo compartment cover blind and flip it
forward. Otherwise the strap of the
securing hook could damage the cargo
compartment cover blind.
! To prevent damage, always disengage the
securing hook from upper cargo
compartment lip and lower the cargo
compartment floor before closing the
tailgate.
Vehicles without spare wheel
iVehicles without spare wheel are not
factory-equipped with the tools required for
a wheel change such as a jack or a wheel
wrench. Some tools required for a wheel
change are specific to your vehicle.
Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center to obtain the tools approved for
your vehicle. The illustration shows the
vehicle retrofitted with the necessary tools
for a wheel change.
:Towing eye bolt;Alignment bolt=Jack?Fuse chartAElectric air pump27BTIREFIT kit27CWheel wrenchDCollapsible wheel chockEReversible ratchet for jack27ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC (Canada vehicles) factory equipped with 20" wheels only.Where will I find ...?269Practical hints164_AKB; 7; 31, en-USd2ureepe,Version: 2.11.8.12009-09-11T12:07:36+02:00 - Seite 269Z

Vehicles with spare wheel
Example illustration
:Electric air pump28;Storage well casing=Alignment bolt?Towing eye boltAWheel wrenchXTo access remaining tools: Remove
storage well casing ; (if so equipped).
XRemove the spare wheel (Y page 271).
Example illustration
BJackCCollapsible wheel chockDFuse chartESpare wheel bolts29FReversible ratchet for jackCollapsible wheel chock
The collapsible wheel chock serves to secure
the vehicle, e.g. while changing a wheel.
XTake the collapsible wheel chock from the
vehicle tool kit (Y page 268).
XSetting up: Tilt both plates upward :.XFold the lower plate outward ;.XGuide the tabs of the lower plate all the way
into the openings of base plate =.
For information on where to place wheel
chocks when changing a wheel, see “Lifting
the vehicle” (Y page 324).
Jack
GWarning!
Only use the jack supplied with your vehicle
to lift the vehicle briefly for wheel changes. If
you use the jack for any other purpose, you or
others could be injured, as the jack is
designed only for the purpose of changing a
wheel.
When using the jack, observe the safety notes
in the “Mounting the spare wheel” section and
the notes on the jack.
XTake the jack from the vehicle tool kit
(Y page 268).28Vehicles with spare wheel with collapsible tire only.29Vehicles with Minispare wheel only.
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Safety systemsDisplay messagesPossible causes/consequences and M SolutionsGTele Aid
Inoperativ
eOne or more main functions of the Tele Aid system are
malfunctioning.XHave the Tele Aid system checked at an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.+Restraint
Sys.
Malfunctio
n
Service
RequiredThe system is malfunctioning.XDrive with added caution to the nearest authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center and have the system checked
immediately.GWarning!
In the event a malfunction of the SRS is
indicated as outlined above, the SRS may not
be operational.
For your safety, we strongly recommend that
you contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center immediately to have the system
checked. Otherwise the SRS may not be
activated when needed in an accident, which
could result in serious or fatal injury, or it
might deploy unexpectedly and unnecessarily
which could also result in injury.
Driving systems
Display messagesPossible causes/consequences and M SolutionsÁLevel
Selection
Not
PermittedThe selected vehicle level cannot be adjusted, because
R you are driving too fast for the desired vehicle level
R you are towing a trailer
R you are using accessories that are connected to the trailer
power socket, e.g. a bicycle rackXReduce vehicle speed and set the desired vehicle level
again ( Y page 156).XObserve the notes on trailer towing ( Y page 254).ÁMalfunctio
nThe air suspension is malfunctioning.XDo not drive faster than 50 mph (80 km/h).XHave the system checked at an authorized Mercedes-Benz
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Resetting activated NECK-PRO active
front head restraints
If the NECK-PRO active front head restraints
have been triggered in a rear-end collision,
they must be reset.
You can tell that the NECK-PRO active front
head restraints have been triggered when
they have been moved forward and cannot be
adjusted.
GWarning!
For safety reasons, have the NECK-PRO active
front head restraints checked at an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center after a
rear-end collision.
GWarning!
When pushing back the head restraint
cushion, make sure your fingers do not
become caught between the head restraint
cushion and the cover. Failing to do so may
lead to injury.
iPressing the head restraint cushion back
requires high force. If you encounter
difficulties when pushing the head restraint
back, please have the procedure
performed at an authorized Mercedes-Benz
Center.
XPull the top of the head restraint cushion in
direction of arrow : as far as it will go.
XAdjust the head restraint cushion
downward in direction of arrow ; as far as
it will go.
XFirmly press the top of the head restraint
cushion towards the head restraint cover in
direction of arrow = until it engages.
XRepeat this procedure on the NECK-PRO
active front head restraint for the second
front seat.
For information on NECK-PRO active front
head restraints, see “NECK-PRO active front
head restraints” (Y page 53).
Replacing SmartKey batteries
If the batteries in the SmartKey are
discharged, the vehicle can no longer be
locked or unlocked. It is recommended to
have the batteries replaced at an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
GWarning!
Batteries contain poisonous and corrosive
substances. Therefore, keep the batteries out
of reach of children.
If a battery is swallowed, seek medical help
immediately.
GWarning!
SmartKey batteries contain perchlorate
material, which may require special handling
and regard for the environment. Check with
your local government’s disposal guidelines.
California residents, see www.dtsc.ca.gov/
HazardousWaste/Perchlorate/
index.cfm.
Batteries contain materials that can harm the
environment if disposed of improperly.
Recycling of batteries is the preferred method
of disposal. Many states (USA only) or
provinces (Canada only) require sellers of
batteries to accept old batteries for recycling.
When inserting the batteries, make sure they
are clean and free of lint.
When replacing batteries, always replace
both batteries.
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