278 Operation
In the “Operation” section you will find de-
tailed information on operating, maintain-
ing and caring for your vehicle.
The first 1 000 miles (1 500 km)
The more cautiously you treat your vehicle
during the break-in period, the more
satisfied you will be with its performance
later on.
Drive your vehicle during the first
1 000 miles (1 500 km) at varying but
moderate vehicle and engine speeds.
During this period, avoid heavy loads
(full throttle driving) and excessive en-
gine speeds (no more than
2/3 of
maximum rpm in each gear).
Vehicles with automatic transmission*:
Do not attempt to slow the vehicle
down by shifting to a lower gear using
the gear selector lever*.
Shift gears in a timely manner.
Avoid accelerating by kickdown.
Vehicles with automatic transmission*:
Select gear3,2, or1 (
page 160)
only when driving at moderate speeds
(for hill driving).
Vehicles with automatic transmission*:
Select C as the preferred shift program
(
page 161) for the first 1 000 miles
(1 500 km).
After 1 000 miles (1 500 km), you may
gradually increase vehicle and engine
speeds to the permissible maximum.
All of the above instructions, as may apply
to your vehicle type, also apply when driv-
ing the first 1 000 miles (1 500 km) after
the engine or the rear differential has been
replaced.
!Additional instructions for SLK 55 AMG:
During the first 1 000 miles (1 500 km), do
not exceed a speed of 85 mph (140 km/h).
During this period, avoid engine speeds
above 4 500 rpm in each gear.
iAlways obey applicable speed limits.
