Mercedes-Benz E-Class Quiz
Roadside assistance

Towing and push-starting. Push-starting (engine emergency start)

In this manual: Roadside assistance
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
~1min read

Push-starting as an engine emergency start is only permitted on the Mercedes E-Class (4th gen, W212, 2009–2016) under certain conditions. This section explains when and how the procedure is carried out safely and gives clear instructions to avoid transmission damage and hazards from improper handling.

Note Vehicles with automatic transmission must not be started by push-starting. Otherwise, the transmission may be damaged.

Info

For information on jump-starting, see .

Before push-starting, make sure that

  • the battery is connected
  • the engine has cooled down
  • the exhaust system has cooled down.
When push-starting, observe the legal requirements in your country and the important safety information.

Switch on the hazard warning lights .

Install the towing eye .

Attach the towing bar or towing cable.

Press and hold the brake pedal.

Turn the key in the ignition lock to position 2.

Fully depress the clutch pedal, engage second gear, and keep the clutch pedal fully depressed.

Release the brake pedal.

Tow the vehicle to start it.

Slowly release the clutch pedal, without pressing the accelerator pedal.

As soon as the engine starts, immediately fully depress the clutch pedal and shift into neutral.

Stop at a suitable location in accordance with traffic regulations.

Apply the parking brake.

Remove the towing bar or towing cable.

Remove the towing eye .

Switch off the hazard warning lights.

Push-starting (engine emergency start) of the Mercedes E-Class W212 (model years 2009–2016) is only permitted on vehicles with manual transmission. With automatic transmissions, there is otherwise a risk of transmission damage. Mercedes provides clear instructions here to carry out the starting procedure safely.

Precise procedures protect the technology and increase safety in an emergency. This keeps the E-Class a reliable partner even in exceptional situations.

The combination of clear procedures and safety requirements reflects Mercedes' high standards of quality.

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