Winter driving

General notes

WARNING

If you shift down on a slippery road surface in an attempt to increase the engine's braking effect, the drive wheels could lose their grip.

There is an increased danger of skidding and accidents.

Do not shift down for additional engine braking on a slippery road surface.

DANGER

If the exhaust pipe is blocked or adequate ventilation is not possible, poisonous gases such as carbon monoxide (CO) may enter the vehicle. This is the case, e.g. if the vehicle becomes trapped in snow. There is a risk of fatal injury.

If you leave the engine or the auxiliary heating running, make sure the exhaust pipe and area around the vehicle are clear of snow. To ensure an adequate supply of fresh air, open a window on the side of the vehicle that is not facing into the wind.

Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop at the onset of winter.

Vehicles with a diesel engine:

do not cover the radiator, e.g. with a protective cover. The measuring function of the onboard diagnosis system may otherwise provide inaccurate values. Some of these values are required by law and must therefore always be accurate.

Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section  .

Driving with summer tires

Observe the notes in the "Winter operation" section  .

Slippery road surfaces

WARNING

If you shift down on a slippery road surface in an attempt to increase the engine's braking effect, the drive wheels could lose their grip.

There is an increased danger of skidding and accidents.

Do not shift down for additional engine braking on a slippery road surface.

If the vehicle threatens to skid or cannot be stopped when moving at low speed: ■ Shift the transmission to position N.

For more information on driving with snow chains, see  .

Drive particularly carefully on slippery road surfaces. Avoid sudden acceleration, steering and braking maneuvers. Do not use the cruise control or DISTRONIC PLUS.

The outside temperature indicator is not designed to serve as an ice-warning device and is therefore unsuitable for that purpose.

Changes in the outside temperature are displayed after a short delay.

Indicated temperatures just above the freezing point do not guarantee that the road surface is free of ice. The road may still be icy, especially in wooded areas or on bridges. You should pay special attention to road conditions when temperatures are around freezing point.