In this recent bad weather I had problems controling my Auto C Class 2005 Estate 200 diesel,stopping was a real problem. I was on slush on top of ice the only way I could control was by keep nocking from drive to nuetral. I have driven other auto cars in the same conditions but never had them handle so bad, it was realy scarey. Has anyone had the same problems? or is it just me.

 

do not drive a Mercedes in any snow condition unless its a 4Matic, I can't believe german make cars (including bmw) can perform so bad in snow

 

Actually, MB C class 4Matic is permanent 4x4 45-55 split

 

I agree completely with snow tires - makes a world of difference, I drive c230 sport rwd (no 4matic) and have separate winter wheels with snow tires and can drive in most new england winter conditions. of course I have been driving rwd vehicles for 37 years and believe folks who have only been used to fwd vehicles might have problems.

 

You mentioned knocking from drive to neutral. What do you think that will accomplish and were you stopping or starting? Don't continue this practice either way. Sloooowly removing your foot from the accelerator (in Drive) will assist in slowing the car as the engine provides some braking power.
You obviously need to get a good set of snow tires. They will turn the car into a tank.
ABS and traction control when coupled with snow tires will get you going and stopping. I've owned MBs since 1979 (none with 4Matic) and have never even been stuck. Take your car to a deserted parking lot and get used to how it handles. It will stop in longer distances and will accelerate slowly but it will work fine.
Good luck.

 

I have to agree with most on here, 4matic won't help you slow down, only accelerate. It's one of the most oversold features ever. I live in Cleveland and drive 90 miles r/t in snow virtually every day in a RWD C230. I was hesitant to buy it, but have had no issues. I'm thinking you may actually have SUMMER tires on your car, which is the original equipment. They are made from a compound that basically turns to plastic below 32 degrees f and they aren't designed to shed snow build up in the treads. In other words, you end up driving on 4 snow *****. Get the brand and model name off the sidewall and google it. If they are...get snows and alternate- even if you have to buy used snows from ebay of something. Good luck.

 

I was under the impression was that is automaticly distributed power to different wheels as needed.