7G Tronic column selector - accident waiting to happen?

[audidoody]

We've taken delivery of a new E-Class with the 7G Tronic. I'm loving the acceleration, smoothness and "paddles". But I fear it is only a matter of time before I mistake the column selector for the turn indicator and engage R at 75mph when I use it to signal a turn. Is there a safety mechanism to stop R being selected at speed to account for such muppetry?

[slinky]

I think you can guarantee it.. but, to find out, how about you give it a try on video for us?

[Deva Link]

audidoody said:

Is there a safety mechanism to stop R being selected at speed to account for such muppetry?

It's a Mercedes - what do you think?

I can't recall ever seeing a comment on the Mercedes forums about anyone accidently trying to do this. I have however nudged the centre console mounted selector in mine without realising when making tight turns and caused it to downshift, which is somewhat disconcerting at the time.

[IATM]

lol its funny you mention that because I recently purchased an ML and it has the same form of gear selector and I worry my mum or dad will drive it one day - try the indicator and try wack it in reverse - in saying it i would imagine you cant just wack it in reverse from drive at any speed - well I HOPE !!!!

[audidoody]

Deva Link said:

I can't recall ever seeing a comment on the Mercedes forums about anyone accidently trying to do this .

I'm going to do my best not to try it - but accidentally is an entirely different kettle of cogs

[mhhayes]

Interesting one...nobody keen to try it obviously! However....on my cars with the column 'Direct Shift', when you put it into D you will see little arrows between the symbols (P,N,D,R). As you drive off, some of the arrows disappear, which I ASSUME means that those movements of the lever will then do nothing at speed. If so, it appears you could move from D into N, but nothing else would happen.

Having used these levers now for many years, I've never confused the indicator on the left with the Direct Select lever on the right......and more importantly, neither has my wife, which is what I had feared!!!! In fact she prefers the lever there, leaving room for her handbag on the centre console, whatever it scratches.......

[audidoody]

I've noticed those flashing little arrows. Couldn't quite work out what their significance was/is.