Enabling Rear-Axle Steering in AMG vehicles enhances the vehicle’s maneuverability, providing better stability at high speeds and increased agility at lower speeds. This system allows the rear wheels to turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels at low speeds and in the same direction at high speeds, which results in sharper turns and greater cornering stability.
Here’s how to enable or adjust Rear-Axle Steering in AMG vehicles, though it's important to note that specific steps may vary based on the model and the system version:
1. Ensure Your AMG Vehicle is Equipped with Rear-Axle Steering
- Not all AMG vehicles are equipped with Rear-Axle Steering as a standard feature. It is typically available on higher-performance models or as part of an AMG Performance Package.
- Verify that your vehicle supports the feature either through the owner’s manual or by checking the vehicle’s specifications on the Mercedes-Benz website.
2. Activate Rear-Axle Steering via Driving Mode Selection
- Most AMG vehicles with Rear-Axle Steering allow the system to be activated or adjusted automatically based on the selected driving mode.
- Use the AMG Drive Unit (the control buttons typically located on the steering wheel) or the Dynamic Select system to select a mode that enables Rear-Axle Steering. In most cases:
- Sport+ or Race Mode may automatically engage Rear-Axle Steering for improved cornering and handling at higher speeds.
- Comfort Mode may turn off Rear-Axle Steering or set it to a less aggressive level for smoother driving at lower speeds.
3. Use the Dynamic Select System (if available)
- In some models, you can manually adjust Rear-Axle Steering via the Dynamic Select system or AMG Drive Program:
- Turn on the car and use the Infotainment Screen or the center console to access the Dynamic Select options.
- Select a mode such as Sport or Sport+. Depending on the model, these modes may automatically enable Rear-Axle Steering or allow for more responsive adjustments based on speed and driving conditions.
- For more track-oriented vehicles, setting the system to Race Mode will often optimize the Rear-Axle Steering for the sharpest possible turning and stability at higher speeds.
4. Using AMG Performance Pages or Settings (if equipped)
- Some newer AMG models come with the AMG Performance Pages system, which may allow for customized control over various vehicle dynamics, including Rear-Axle Steering.
- AMG Performance Pages can often be accessed via the Infotainment screen or dashboard interface.
- Within the system, you can check whether Rear-Axle Steering is activated and adjust it if the feature allows for manual tuning.
5. Check for Rear-Axle Steering in the Settings Menu
- In some AMG models, the Rear-Axle Steering feature can be specifically toggled or customized through the vehicle settings menu in the Infotainment System. This would typically be found in the Driving Assistance or Chassis Settings section.
- To access this:
- Open the vehicle settings in the infotainment menu.
- Look for a section related to Chassis/Steering/Handling.
- If applicable, select Rear-Axle Steering to turn it on or off, or adjust the intensity of the system (some systems allow you to adjust how much rear steering is applied at different speeds).
6. Automatic Operation at Higher Speeds
- On most systems, once Rear-Axle Steering is enabled in a specific driving mode, it operates automatically based on the speed of the vehicle.
- At lower speeds (typically under 30-40 mph), the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, improving maneuverability in tight spaces, such as when parking or making sharp turns.
- At higher speeds, the system adjusts, and the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels to enhance stability and cornering at higher speeds.
7. Confirm the System is Engaged
- Many AMG vehicles will provide visual feedback on the Infotainment screen or through the AMG Performance Pages to confirm that Rear-Axle Steering is engaged.
- Some vehicles also have a steering angle display on the dashboard, allowing you to see how much rear-wheel steering is being applied.
- If the system is not automatically engaging in the selected mode, check whether the feature is turned on in the vehicle's settings or contact your Mercedes-Benz dealer to ensure the system is working correctly.
8. Consult the Owner’s Manual
- For detailed and model-specific instructions, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Some models may have additional steps or requirements for enabling Rear-Axle Steering, especially in limited editions or AMG-specific configurations.
Conclusion:
Enabling Rear-Axle Steering in AMG vehicles typically occurs automatically when you select an appropriate driving mode such as Sport or Sport+, but it can also be manually adjusted through the Dynamic Select system or Infotainment settings. This system adapts the steering dynamics based on speed, improving maneuverability at low speeds and enhancing stability at high speeds. Always check your specific AMG model’s features to ensure the system is properly enabled and configured for optimal driving performance.