How to Enable Lift Mode on Older Mercedes-Benz S350?
3 Answers
Open the driver's door, insert the car key, press the one-touch start button to power on the vehicle, and the dashboard will light up. On the MMI control panel, press the CAR button followed by the SETUP button to enable the lift mode.
To activate the lift mode on an older Mercedes-Benz S350, I've figured it out over several years. First, you need to park the car securely and turn off the engine, then turn the key to the ignition position without starting the engine. Next, locate a button marked with an arrow symbol on the center console or steering column—that's the suspension control button. Press and hold it for about 3 to 5 seconds until the dashboard shows an indicator light or you hear a beep, which means the mode is activated. Remember, this mode is mainly to prevent damage to components from automatic suspension adjustments during maintenance, such as when using a jack to lift the car or changing tires—always activate it beforehand. If you forget to turn it on, the suspension system might move unexpectedly, causing air leaks or burst pipes. I recommend doing this before every maintenance session to ensure safety. Also, there might be slight variations in the steps for different model years of the S350, but the basics remain the same. After driving for over a decade, I’ve found that making this a habit can save a lot on repair costs.
I often help people with car repairs, and enabling lift mode isn't difficult. You need to power on the vehicle after turning off the engine, switch the position to 'On', then look for the suspension button near the instrument panel - usually marked with height adjustment symbols. Press and hold it until you hear a feedback sound or see a light come on. This mode is called jack mode, mainly to protect the air suspension from automatically adjusting and causing maintenance accidents. If not activated, the suspension compression during jacking can damage components or cause fluid leaks. I've encountered many owners who neglected this step, resulting in costly repairs. Always ensure the surroundings are safe before operating, and make sure the jack is stable. For older S350 models, some versions may have the button in different locations - consulting the manual is most reliable. Simply put, making this a habit can prevent trouble and extend your car's lifespan.
