2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class on road

When to Use Differential Lock in Your 2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

How to Use Mercedes-Benz G-Class Differential Lock

One of the first things you notice when you climb aboard a Mercedes-Benz G-Class is the panel of buttons at top center of the instrument cluster. Here sit three buttons that show four wheels, connected by lines, each with a circle in a different spot along the lines connecting the wheels. Since we already covered what the G-Class locking differential is and what it does, it is time to learn how to use the Mercedes-Benz G-Class locking differential.

Read More: What the Heck is a Differential?!

When to Use Locking Differential

If you only use your G-Class to commute to work, the chances are slim that you will ever need to use this feature. Basically, the only appropriate time to use this would be if you are stuck. This might mean just one tire is stuck and the others have traction but aren’t spinning, or if all tires are submerged to make sure all the wheels are working together. It is important to remember to take it slow when you have any of your differentials locked. Don’t floor it. Just inch your way out of whatever it is you got yourself into.

G-Class Differential Buttons

2017 GLS and 2016 G-Class parked in a line

2017 GLS and 2016 G-Class parked in a line

It is important to lock them in order of center, rear, and then front to make sure you don’t damage your drivetrain. It is also important to remember to unlock them once you get out of your jam because it is only meant for speeds below 10 miles per hour to get out of mud or snow. If you don’t unlock them, you will, again, damage your drivetrain. Each differential is labeled in order of when to lock them, as shown on the picture below. Simply press them in sequence, and you’re off.

If you are still unsure of how to use your Mercedes-Benz G-Class locking differential system, come down to Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead. We would be happy to help you out of a sticky situation.

Disclaimer: Images used are of the 2017 model