Mercedes-Benz GLC : Trailer hitch / Notes on trailer operation

NOTE Mercedes-AMG vehicles

Observe the notes in the Supplement. You could otherwise fail to recognize dangers.

NOTE Plug-in hybrid

Observe the notes in the Supplement. You could otherwise fail to recognize dangers.

WARNING Risk of accident due to unsuitable ball neck

If you install an unsuitable ball neck, the trailer hitch and the rear axle may be overloaded.

This can significantly impair the driving characteristics and the trailer may become loose. There is a risk of fatal injury.

Only install a ball neck that complies with the permissible dimensions and is designed for the requirements of trailer operation.

Do not modify the ball neck or the trailer hitch.

The values approved by the manufacturer can be found on the identification plates and in the "Technical data" section under "Trailer hitch" for the towing vehicle.

WARNING Swerving of the vehicle/ trailer combination due to increased speed

You could lose control of the vehicle/trailer combination.

The vehicle/trailer combination may even tip over.

Under no circumstances should you try to straighten the vehicle/trailer combination by increasing the speed.

Reduce your speed and do not countersteer.

If necessary, apply the brakes.

NOTE Damage to the engine as a result of overheating

If you retrofit a trailer hitch, modifications to the engine cooling system may be necessary, depending on the vehicle model.

When retrofitting a trailer hitch, observe the fastening points on the chassis.

Retrofitting a trailer hitch is permissible only if a trailer load is specified in your vehicle documents. If this is not the case, the vehicle is not approved for trailer operation.

Further information can be obtained at a qualified specialist workshop.

If the trailer coupling is detachable, it is essential to comply with the operating instructions of the trailer coupling manufacturer.

Couple and uncouple the trailer carefully. If you do not connect the trailer to the towing vehicle correctly, the trailer may become detached.

Observe the following notes on the tongue weight:

• Do not use a tongue weight that exceeds or falls below the permissible tongue weight
• Use a tongue weight as close as possible to the maximum tongue weight

Do not exceed the following values:

• Permissible towing capacity
• Permissible rear axle load of the towing vehicle
• Permissible gross weight of the towing vehicle
• Permissible gross weight of the trailer
• Maximum permissible speed of the trailer

Ensure the following before starting a journey:

• The tire pressure on the rear axle of the towing vehicle is set for a maximum load
• The lighting of the connected trailer is operational
• Vehicles without LED headlamps or MULTIBEAM LED headlamps: the headlamps have been set correctly

In the event of increased rear axle load, the vehicle/ trailer combination must not exceed a maximum speed of 62 mph (100 km/h) for reasons concerning the operating permit. This also applies in countries in which the permissible maximum speed for vehicle/trailer combinations is above 62 mph (100 km/h).