158 Driving Useful information X Make sure that trailer cables and compressed-air lines are connected cor- rectly ( Y page 220). These Operating Instructions describe all the models and standard and optional equipment of your vehicle that were available at the time of going to print. Country-specific differences are possible. Bear in mind that your vehicle may not be equipped with all the functions described. This also applies to safety-relevant systems and functions. Read the information on qualified specialist workshops ( Y page 30). X Make sure that the trailer coupling is locked and secured correctly.
Observe the operating instructions issued by the manufacturer for the operation, care and maintenance of the trailer coupling. Have all faults and damage rectified. If nec- essary, have the causes determined and rec- tified at a qualified specialist workshop. Driving mode Driving Visual and function check in the vehicle Preparing for a journey General notes Please note that all electronic systems in the vehicle only serve to assist you. They do not relieve you of the obligation to carry out a vis- ual inspection of the vehicle and the trailer before starting a journey.
Visual and function check outside the vehicle Before you pull away, carry out the following checks on the towing vehicle and the trailer: Emergency equipment/first-aid kit You will find an overview of emergency equip- ment and first-aid kits in the "Breakdown assistance" section ( Y page 312). X Check the exterior lighting ( Y page 77). X Replace faulty bulbs ( Y page 79). X Check that the licence plate, vehicle light- ing, turn signal and brake lamps are clean and free of damage. X Check the emergency equipment to make sure that it is accessible, complete and ready for use. These are, for example: X Check the tyre pressures, tyres and wheels for firm seating and general condition.
X Check the tyres for sufficient tread depth. When doing so, observe the country-spe- cific regulations regarding minimum tyre tread depth. R first-aid kit R warning triangle R warning beacon R fire extinguisher X Check tyres and wheels for visible damage and tears. X At regular intervals, check that the first-aid kit is usable. Note the use-by dates of the contents. X Make sure that the vehicle is loaded cor- rectly. X Make sure that the dropsides and exterior flaps are locked securely and not damaged. X Have the fire extinguisher checked every one to two years. X Check the condition of the contour mark- ings at all attachments and bodies.
X The fire extinguisher must be refilled after each use. X In wintry conditions, remove snow and accumulations of ice from the tractor vehi- cle and trailer/semitrailer. In some countries, it is a legal requirement to carry additional emergency equipment on board, e.g. a breathalyser. Observe the legal requirements regarding emergency equip-