GENERAL OFF-ROAD DRIVING TIPS

• Be prepared! Always engage low range when encountering off-road obstacles that might appear too severe for standard permanent 4WD. The M-Class requires a full stop to go into low range.
• Know the straddle, approach and departure angle as well as the maximum recommended wading depth.
• Always wear your seat belt, except when wading through water or other situations where you might need to get out quickly.
• Always secure all equipment. Loose flying objects can cause injury to passengers and the driver.
• Every off-road route presents a different situation. Evaluate every obstacle before you attempt to cross it. Walk all obstacles to establish your line. The line is the path that you will steer your M-Class through. By inspecting and walking the ground over which you are about to drive can prevent bogging down or vehicle damage.
• Drive with your hands in the 10-2 o'clock position and keep your thumbs outside of the steering wheel rim. If the wheel kicks in your hands when hitting an obstacle it can injure your thumbs.
• Drive slowly and evenly. Many situation require a crawling pace.
• If the wheels start to spin, remember 4-ETS is activated automatically and appropriate acceleration is required to improve traction.
• Windows should never be more than one third open when there is a danger of swinging branches.
• When crossing water or driving in very dusty conditions, do not activate the air recirculation button; close the vehicle's window and switch the ventilation fan on. This will pressurise the cabin and reduce leaks.
• After driving off-road always inspect your M-Class and clean it with a high-pressure hose. Pay attention to brakes, wheels, engine, suspension and radiator core.
• Remove dry grass and sticks near the exhaust and catalytic convertor as this can be a fire hazard. This check should be done on a regular basis depending on the terrain.

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