FC_GLK

First post, appreciate all the great info on this board.

Here's my question: Is there a way to set the GLK to default to Sport mode all the time? My salesperson was avoiding the question so I suspect there isn't. I find mine is a little jerky in Economy mode.

Thanks for the info.

balticgreen

You're not the only one who would like it to default to Sport, but there isn't any way to make that happen.

Koenig1

If it really bothers you, there is a way. Just don't let MB service know about it or warranty might be an issue!!! Basically you would utilize a relay that would, on startup, switch your E /S button to run on S. Not to hard for anyone with auto electronics skills... Basically, the button to switch E > S either opens or closes that circuit when pressed to switch modes....

Now that I'm thinking the default is E..... wonder what it would take to switch the default??? again, someone with electronic skills could set you up..
good luck

FC_GLK

Thanks for the responses. That's what I was thinking. Its probably just a flag somewhere that could be flipped if they were willing to do it. Its not that big a deal, just seems like Sport mode is the way its supposed to drive. For a few mpg, I'd rather enjoy it more. Guess I'll have to remember to hit the button.

Otherwise, we're really enjoying the GLK so far. Only 3 weeks in.

fabbrisd1

I would recommend you view "E" as Economy mode for when you are up on the highway for 20 minutes or more ... and view "S" more as Standard/for-all-other-time... adjust your starting procedure accordingly to switch to S upon every startup.. "S" as "Sport" is really a misunderstood overstatement ... next, please learn/explore what your "paddles" really do well... 3 second hold on left paddle takes you to passing/power gear for that speed... also useful in approaching a braking situation (such as downhill) where added engine braking power can add to deceleration.. 3 second hold on right paddle takes you back to auto mode... paddles where not really designed for "manual" shifting.. most - like 90%+ of MB owners out there haven't been informed on the passing/breaking function of the paddles on 3 second mode.. because most 90%+ MB salesman have not been Mercedes enthusiasts..

mikedr

What is passing gear? 2 gears down? Does it just hold it there?

fabbrisd1

Explore with what I have told you - when you are comfortable with it - it become a most useful "driving feature" that is "built-in" to the operation of your MB... damn shame since this feature has been "built-in" since '98...

koalatm

You have to remember that most people just don't care. We picked up our GLK 250 yesterday and one of the first things I showed my wife (with her driving) was the difference between E and S... she didn't really notice.

jiwengang

Thanks for the tip. But a few words must be mentioned here that

If you are using engine braking, in a way that you really save your brake pad because you don't step on it hard on downhills, but any damage/additional wear to engine due to using this method is NOT covered by warranty.

There is a specific line/paragraph in owner's manual saying this.

jiwengang

It is the drive-train warranty.

On Page 168

"Downhill gradients
! On long and steep gradients, you must
reduce the load on the brakes by shifting
early to a lower gear. This allows you to take
advantage of the engine braking effect and
helps avoid overheating and excessive
wear of the brakes.
When you take advantage of the engine
braking effect, a drive wheel may not turn
for some time, e.g. on a slippery road
surface. This could cause damage to the
drive train. This type of damage is not
covered by the Mercedes-Benz warranty.
"