Winter driving
Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. a Mercedes-Benz Service Centre, at the onset of winter. This service includes the following:
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Oil change, if the current engine oil used has not been approved for winter use
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The antifreeze / anti-corrosion concentration in the coolant is checked
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The addition of a concentrated cleaning agent to the water in the windscreen washer/headlamp cleaning system
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Battery check
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A tyre change
Prior to the onset of winter, ensure that snow chains are available in the vehicle.
You will find information about diesel fuel for use at low outside temperatures in the “Operation” section more.
Please also observe the information about winter driving more.
Winter tyres
Use winter tyres at temperatures below +7 °C and on snow or ice-covered roads. Only then may the ABS, ASR, BAS, AAS and ESP® driving safety systems operate to optimum effect.
Use winter tyres of the same make and tread on all wheels to maintain safe handling characteristics.
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You must replace winter tyres with a tread depth of less than 4 mm immediately. These tyres are unsuitable for use in winter and no longer provide sufficient grip. You could lose control of the vehicle as a result and cause an accident.
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Always observe the maximum permitted speed specified for the winter tyres you have fitted. If you fit winter tyres which have a lower maximum permitted speed than that of the vehicle, affix an appropriate warning sign in the driver’s field of vision. This is available at any qualified specialist workshop, e.g. your Mercedes-Benz Service Centre.
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In this case use the permanent Speedtronic system to limit the maximum speed of the vehicle to the maximum speed permitted for the winter tyres more.
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Reactivate the tyre pressure monitor .
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If you fit the spare wheel when driving with winter tyres, you should expect unstable cornering characteristics and impaired driving stability as a result of the different tyres. You should therefore adapt your driving style and drive carefully.
Have the spare wheel replaced at the nearest qualified specialist workshop which has the necessary specialist knowledge and tools to carry out the work required. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you use a Mercedes-Benz Service Centre for this purpose. In particular, work relevant to safety or on safety-related systems must be carried out at a qualified specialist workshop.
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When wheels and tyres have been removed, store them in a cool, dry, and if possible dark place. Protect the tyres from oil, grease and petrol / diesel.
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Snow chains
Snow chains offer better traction in winter road conditions. If you are intending to fit snow chains, please bear the following points in mind:
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It is not permissible to fit snow chains to every wheel / tyre combination. Observe the approved tyre and snow chain dimensions when fitting the snow chains.
For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use snow chains which have been specially approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Information about snow chains can be obtained from any Mercedes-Benz Service Centre.
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Snow chains must be fitted to both rear wheels. Comply with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
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When driving with snow chains, it may be advantageous to deactivate ASR more. This enables the tyres to cut into loose or slippery surfaces and get a better grip.
Only drive at the permitted maximum speed with snow chains when you are driving on snow. Observe the legal requirements in all countries concerned. As soon as you are back on snow-free roads, remove the snow chains as soon as possible.
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