Mercedes-Benz E-Class Quiz
Driving and parking

4MATIC (permanent all-wheel drive)

In this manual: Driving and parking
Introduction — 5At a glance — 6Safety — 25Opening and Closing — 17Seats, steering wheel and mirrors — 12Lights and windshield wipers — 11Climate Control — 11Driving and parking — 44On-board computer and displays — 29Stowing and Useful Information. Good to Know — 1Stowing and Useful Information. Storage Options — 10Stowage and convenience features. Convenience features — 7Maintenance and care — 11Roadside assistance — 13Wheels and tires — 13Technical data — 13
~2min read

The 4MATIC of the Mercedes E-Class (4th generation, W212, 2009–2016) provides increased traction and stability in all road conditions with permanent all-wheel drive. The system supports driving safety by distributing drive power optimally. Notes on correct use and towing help prevent damage and maintain functionality.

4MATIC can neither reduce the accident risk caused by inappropriate driving nor override physical limits. 4MATIC cannot take road and weather conditions or the traffic situation into account. 4MATIC is only an aid. You are responsible for maintaining a safe following distance, appropriate speed, timely braking and staying in your lane.

If a drive wheel spins due to insufficient road grip:

  • When pulling away, depress the accelerator pedal only as far as necessary.
  • Ease off the accelerator while driving.
Note
Never tow the vehicle with an axle raised. This can damage the transfer case. Such damage is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz warranty. All wheels must either be on the ground or fully raised. Observe the instructions for towing the vehicle with all wheels in full ground contact.

Info

Only when you use winter tires (M+S tires), and if necessary snow chains, on winter road conditions will you achieve the maximum effect of 4MATIC.

4MATIC provides permanent drive to all four wheels. If a driven wheel spins due to insufficient road grip, it improves the traction of your vehicle together with ESP.

4MATIC in the Mercedes E-Class W212 (model years 2009–2016) provides permanent all-wheel drive and optimized traction in a variety of road conditions. It works seamlessly with ESP to increase driving safety.

Even in winter conditions, 4MATIC offers the best support, provided the vehicle is fitted with suitable tires. This makes every journey safer and more comfortable.

Question: What must be observed when towing a 4MATIC vehicle?

Answer: Do not tow with one axle raised. All wheels must either be in contact with the ground or be fully raised.

Question: Why are winter tires important for the full effect of 4MATIC?

Answer: Only with winter tires does 4MATIC achieve its maximum traction on slippery roads.

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A quick Mercedes-Benz E-Class quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.