Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: 4MATIC (permanent four-wheel drive) - Off-road driving systems - Driving and parking - Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Owner's ManualMercedes-Benz GL-Class: 4MATIC (permanent four-wheel drive)

4MATIC ensures that all four wheels are permanently driven. Together with ESP® and 4ETS, it improves the traction of your vehicle whenever a drive wheel spins due to insufficient grip.

WARNING If a drive wheel is spinning due to insufficient 
If a drive wheel is spinning due to insufficient traction:
While driving off, apply as little throttle as possible.
While driving, ease up on the accelerator pedal.
Adapt 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.

raised. This may damage the transfer case. Never tow the vehicle with one axle raised. This may damage the transfer case.

Damage of this sort is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. All wheels must remain either on the gr or be fully raised. Observe the instructions for towing the vehicle with all wheels in full contact with the ground.

effect of 4MATIC can only be achieved if In 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.

the vehicle only briefly (for a maximum of When testing the parking brake, operate the vehicle only briefly (for a maximum of ten seconds) on a brake test dynamometer.

When doing this, turn the key to position 0 or 1 in the ignition. Failure to do this can cause damage to the drive train or the brake system.

be performed on a 2-axle dynamometer. If Function or performance tests may only be performed on a 2-axle dynamometer. If you wish to operate the vehicle on such a dynamometer, please consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center beforehand. You could otherwise damage the drive train or the brake system.

For information about driving off-road, see.

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    Environmental Concerns
    Always use established trails, roads, and areas that have been set aside for public off-road recreational driving and obey all posted regulations. Do not damage shrubs, flowers, trees, or grass ...