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Example: current tire pressure display
Important safety notes
G WARNING Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked at least once a month when cold and inflated to the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver's door B-pillar or the tire pressure label on the inside of the fuel filler flap. If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the Tire and Loading Information placard or the tire pressure label, you should determine the proper tire pressure for those tires.
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires are significantly underinflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if underinflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.
USA only:
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate if the
410 Check
vehicle to a halt by braking carefully. Avoid abrupt steering maneuvers.
Checking the tire pressure
electronically
X Make sure that the SmartKey is in position
2 in the ignition lock (Y page 163).
X Press the = or ; button on the steering wheel to select the Service menu.
X Press the 9 or : button to select
Tire Pressure.
X Press the a button.
The current tire pressure of each tire is shown in the multifunction display.
If the vehicle has been parked for longer than 20 minutes, the Tire pressure will be displayed after driving a few minutes message appears.
After a teach-in process, the tire pressure monitor automatically detects new wheels or new sensors. As long as a clear allocation of the tire pressure value to the individual wheels is not possible, the Tire Pressure Monitor Active display message is shown instead of the tire pressure display. The tire pressures are already being monitored.
i If an emergency spare wheel is mounted, the system may continue to show the tire pressure of the wheel that has been removed for a few minutes. If this occurs, note that the value displayed for the position where the spare wheel is mounted is not the same as the current tire pressure of the emergency spare wheel.
The tire pressure monitor has a yellow warning lamp in the instrument cluster for indicating pressure loss/malfunctions (USA) or pressure loss (Canada). Whether the warning lamp flashes or lights up indicates whether a tire pressure is too low or the tire pressure monitor is malfunctioning:
Rif the warning lamp is lit continuously, the
tire pressure on one or more tires is significantly too low. The tire pressure monitor is not malfunctioning.
RUSA only: if the warning lamp flashes for
around a minute and then remains lit constantly, the tire pressure monitor is malfunctioning.
USA only: if there is a malfunction with the tire pressure monitor it can take more than ten minutes until the malfunction is shown by the tire pressure warning lamp flashing for approximately one minute and then lighting up continuously. When the malfunction has been rectified, the tire pressure warning lamp goes out after a few minutes of driving.
The tire pressure values indicated by the on- board computer may differ from those measured at a gas station with a pressure gauge. The tire pressures shown by the on- board computer refer to those measured at sea level. At high altitudes, the tire pressure values indicated by a pressure gauge are higher than those shown by the on-board computer. In this case, do not reduce the tire pressures.
The operation of the tire pressure monitor can be affected by interference from radio transmitting equipment (e.g. radio headphones, two-way radios) that may be being operated in or near the vehicle.
Check 411
Tire pressure monitor warning
X Set the tire pressure to the value
messages
If the tire pressure monitor detects a pressure loss in one or more tires, a warning message is shown in the multifunction display. A warning tone also sounds and the tire pressure warning lamp lights up in the instrument cluster. Each tire that is affected by a significant loss of pressure is highlighted in the pressure display.
RIf the Correct Tire Pressure message
appears in the multifunction display, the tire pressure in at least one tire is too low and must be corrected at the next opportunity.
recommended for the corresponding driving situation on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the B-pillar on the driver's side (Y page 404).
Additional tire pressure values for different loads can also be found on the tire pressure table on the inside of the fuel filler flap (Y page 178).
X Make sure that the tire pressure is correct
on all four wheels.
X Make sure that the SmartKey is in position
2 in the ignition lock.
X Press the = or ; button on the
steering wheel to select the Serv. menu.
RIf the Check Tires message appears in the
X Press the 9 or : button to select
multifunction display, the tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped significantly and the tires must be checked.
RIf the Warning Tire Malfunction
message appears in the multifunction display, the tire pressure in one or more tires has dropped suddenly and the tires must be checked.
i If the wheel positions on the vehicle are
rotated, the tire pressures may be displayed for the wrong positions for a short time. This is rectified after a few minutes of driving, and the tire pressures are displayed for the correct positions.
Restarting the tire pressure monitor
When you restart the tire pressure monitor, all existing warning messages are deleted and the warning lamps go out. The monitor uses the currently set tire pressures as the reference values for monitoring. In most cases, the tire pressure monitor will automatically detect the new reference values after you have changed the tire pressure. However, you can also define reference values manually as described here. The tire pressure monitor then monitors the new tire pressure values.
Tire Pressure.
X Press the a button.
The multifunction display shows the current tire pressure for the individual tires or the Tire pressure will be displayed after driving a few minutes message.
X Press the : button.
The Use current pressures as new reference values message appears in the multifunction display.
If you wish to confirm the restart:
X Press the a button.
The Tire Press. Monitor Restarted message appears in the multifunction display.
After driving for a few minutes, the system checks whether the current tire pressures are within the specified range. The new tire pressures are then accepted as reference values and monitored.
If you wish to cancel the restart:
X Press the % button.
The tire pressure values stored at the last restart will continue to be monitored.
412 Loading the vehicle
Loading the vehicle
Instruction labels for tires and loads
G WARNING Overloaded tires can overheat, causing a blowout. Overloaded tires can also impair the steering and driving characteristics and lead to brake failure. There is a risk of accident.
Observe the load rating of the tires. The load rating must be at least half of the GAWR of your vehicle. Never overload the tires by exceeding the maximum load.
Two instruction labels on your vehicle show the maximum possible load.
(1) The Tire and Loading Information placard is on the B-pillar on the driver's side. The Tire and Loading Information placard shows the maximum permissible number of occupants and the maximum permissible vehicle load. It also contains details of the tire sizes and corresponding pressures for tires mounted at the factory.
(2) The vehicle identification plate is on the B-pillar on the driver's side. The vehicle identification plate informs you of the gross vehicle weight rating. It is made up of the vehicle weight, all vehicle occupants, the fuel and the cargo. You can also find information about the maximum gross axle weight rating on the front and rear axle.
The maximum gross axle weight rating is the maximum weight that can be carried by one axle (front or rear axle). Never exceed the maximum load or the maximum gross axle weight rating for the front or rear axle.
: B-pillar, driver's side
Maximum permissible gross vehicle
weight rating
X Specification for maximum gross vehicle
weight : is listed in the Tire and Loading Information placard: "The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kilograms or XXX lbs."
The gross weight of all vehicle occupants, load and luggage must not exceed the specified value.
i The specifications shown on the Tire and
Loading Information placard in the illustration are examples. The maximum permissible gross vehicle weight rating is vehicle-specific and may differ from that in the illustration. You can find the valid
Loading the vehicle 413
your vehicle’s Tire and Loading Information placard.
X Step 2: Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.
X Step 3: Subtract the combined weight of
the driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX lbs.
X Step 4: The resulting figure equals the
available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the "XXX" amount equals 1,400 lbs and there will be five 150 lbs passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs (1,400 - 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs).
X Step 5: Determine the combined weight of
luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4.
maximum permissible gross vehicle weight rating for your vehicle on the Tire and Loading Information placard.
Number of seats
Maximum number of seats : indicates the maximum number of occupants allowed to travel in the vehicle. This information can be found on the Tire and Loading Information placard.
i The specifications shown on the Tire and
Loading Information placard in the illustration are examples. The number of seats is vehicle-specific and can differ from the details shown. The number of seats in your vehicle can be found on the Tire and Loading Information placard.
Determining the correct load limit
Step-by-step instructions
The following steps have been developed as required of all manufacturers under Title 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575
pursuant to the "National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966".X Step 1: Locate the statement "The
combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs." on
414 Loading the vehicle
Example: steps 1 to 3
The following table shows examples on how to calculate total and cargo load capacities with varying seating configurations and number and size of occupants. The following examples use a maximum load of 1,500 lbs (680 kg). This is for illustration purposes only. Make sure you are using the actual load limit for your vehicle stated on your vehicle's Tire and Loading Information placard (Y page 412).
The greater the combined weight of the occupants, the lower the maximum luggage load.
Additional information when towing a trailer (Y page 257).
Step 1
Example 1
Example 2
Example 3
Combined maximum
1500 lbs (680 kg)
1500 lbs (680 kg)
1500 lbs (680 kg)
weight of occupants
and cargo (data from
the Tire and Loading
Information placard)
Step 2
Example 1
Example 2
Example 3
Number of people in
the vehicle (driver
and occupants)
Distribution of the
occupants
Front: 2
Rear: 3
Weight of the
occupants
Occupant 1: 150 lbs (68 kg)
Occupant 2: 180 lbs (82 kg)
Occupant 3: 160 lbs (73 kg)
Occupant 4: 140 lbs (63 kg)
Occupant 5: 120 lbs (54 kg)
Front: 1
Occupant 1: 150 lbs (68 kg)
Front: 1
Rear: 2
Occupant 1: 200 lbs (91 kg)
Occupant 2: 190 lbs (86 kg)
Occupant 3: 150 lbs (68 kg)
Gross weight of all
750 lbs (340 kg)
540 lbs (245 kg)
150 lbs (68 kg)
occupants
All about wheels and tires
415
Example 1
Example 2
Example 3
1500 lbs (680 kg) Ò750 lbs (340 kg) = 750 lbs (340 kg)
1500 lbs (680 kg) Ò540 lbs (245 kg) =960 lbs (435 kg)
1500 lbs (680 kg) Ò150 lbs (68 kg) = 1350 lbs (612 kg)
Step 3
Permissible load
(maximum gross
vehicle weight rating
from the Tire and
Loading Information
placard minus the
gross weight of all
occupants)
Vehicle identification plate
All about wheels and tires
Even if you have calculated the total cargo carefully, you should still make sure that the gross vehicle weight rating and the gross axle weight rating are not exceeded. Details can be found on the vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar on the driver's side of the vehicle (Y page 412).
Permissible gross vehicle weight: the gross weight of the vehicle, all passengers, load and trailer load/noseweight (if applicable) must not exceed the permissible gross vehicle weight.
Gross axle weight rating: the maximum permissible weight that can be carried by one axle (front or rear axle).
To ensure that your vehicle does not exceed the maximum permissible values (gross vehicle weight and maximum gross axle weight rating), have your loaded vehicle (including driver, occupants, cargo, and full trailer load if applicable) weighed on a suitable vehicle weighbridge.
Trailer load/noseweight
The trailer load/noseweight affects the gross weight of the vehicle. If a trailer is attached, the trailer load/noseweight is included in the load along with occupants and luggage. The trailer load/noseweight is usually approximately 8% of the gross weight of the trailer and its cargo.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards
Overview of Tire Quality Grading
Standards
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards are U.S. government specifications. Their purpose is to provide drivers with uniform reliable information on tire performance data. Tire manufacturers have to grade tires using three performance factors: : tread wear grade, ; traction grade and = temperature grade. These regulations do not apply to Canada. Nevertheless, all tires sold in North America are provided with the corresponding quality grading markings on the sidewall of the tire.
Where applicable, the tire grading information can be found on the tire sidewall between the tread shoulder and maximum tire width.
416 All about wheels and tires
Example:
RTreadwear grade: 200
RTraction grade: AA
RTemperature grade: A
All passenger car tires must conform to the statutory safety requirements in addition to these grades.
i The actual values for tires are vehicle-
specific and may deviate from the values in the illustration.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified U.S. government course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half times as well on the government test track as a tire graded 100.
The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm, due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate conditions.
Traction
G WARNING The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.
! Avoid wheelspin. This can lead to damage
to the drive train.
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on a wet surface as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.
The safe speed on a wet, snow covered or icy road is always lower than on dry road surfaces.
You should pay special attention to road conditions when temperatures are around freezing point.
Mercedes-Benz recommends a minimum tread depth of ã in (4 mm) on all four winter tires. Observe the legally required minimum tire tread depth (Y page 401). Winter tires can reduce the braking distance on snow-covered surfaces in comparison with summer tires. The braking distance is still much further than on surfaces that are not icy or covered with snow. Take appropriate care when driving.
Further information on winter tires (M+S tires) (Y page 402).
Temperature
G WARNING The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause excessive heat build-up and possible tire failure.
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C. These represent the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.
Tire labeling
Overview
All about wheels and tires
417
Therefore, only use tire types and sizes approved for your vehicle model. Observe the tire load rating and speed rating required for your vehicle.
: Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standard
(Y page 421)
; DOT, Tire Identification Number
(Y page 420)
= Maximum tire load (Y page 419)
? Maximum tire pressure (Y page 406)
A Manufacturer
B Tire material (Y page 420)
C Tire size designation, load-bearing
capacity and speed index (Y page 417)
D Load index (Y page 419)
E Tire name
The markings described above are on the tire in addition to the tire name (sales designation) and the manufacturer's name.
i Tire data is vehicle-specific and may deviate from the data in the example.
Tire size designation, load-bearing
capacity and speed rating
G WARNING Exceeding the stated tire load-bearing capacity and the approved maximum speed could lead to tire damage or the tire bursting. There is a risk of accident.
: Tire width
; Nominal aspect ratio in %
= Tire code
? Rim diameter
A Load bearing index
B Speed rating
General: depending on the manufacturer's standards, the size imprinted in the tire wall may not contain any letters or may contain one letter that precedes the size description.
If there is no letter preceding the size description (as shown above): these are passenger vehicle tires according to European manufacturing standards.
If "P" precedes the size description: these are passenger vehicle tires according to U.S. manufacturing standards.
If "LT" precedes the size description: these are light truck tires according to U.S. manufacturing standards.
If "T" precedes the size description: these are compact emergency spare wheels at high tire pressure, to be used only temporarily in an emergency.
Tire width: tire width : shows the nominal tire width in millimeters.
Height-width ratio: aspect ratio ; is the size ratio between the tire height and tire width and is shown in percent. The aspect
418 All about wheels and tires
ratio is calculated by dividing the tire width by the tire height.
Tire code: tire code = specifies the tire type. "R" represents radial tires; "D" represents diagonal tires; "B" represents diagonal radial tires.
Optionally, tires with a maximum speed of over 149 mph (240 km/h) may have "ZR" in the size description, depending on the manufacturer (e.g. 245/40 ZR 18).
Rim diameter: rim diameter ? is the diameter of the bead seat, not the diameter of the rim flange. The rim diameter is specified in inches (in).
Load-bearing index: load-bearing index A is a numerical code that specifies the maximum load-bearing capacity of a tire.
Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit. The maximum permissible load can be found on the vehicle's Tire and Loading Information placard on the B-pillar on the driver's side (Y page 412).
Example:
Load-bearing index 91 indicates a maximum load of 1,356 lb (615 kg) that the tires can bear. For further information on the maximum tire load in kilograms and lbs, see (Y page 419).
For further information on the load bearing index, see "Load index" (Y page 419).
Speed rating: speed rating B specifies the approved maximum speed of the tire.
i Tire data is vehicle-specific and may deviate from the data in the example.
Regardless of the speed rating, always observe the speed limits. Drive carefully and adapt your driving style to the traffic conditions.
Summer tires
Index
Speed rating
up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
up to 106 mph (170 km/h)
Index
Speed rating
up to 112 mph (180 km/h)
up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
up to 168 mph (270 km/h)
up to 186 mph (300 km/h)
ZR...Y
up to 186 mph (300 km/h)
ZR...(..Y)
over 186 mph (300 km/h)
ZR
over 149 mph (240 km/h)
ROptionally, tires with a maximum speed of over 149 mph (240 km/h) may have "ZR" in the size description, depending on the manufacturer (e.g. 245/40 ZR18).
The service specification is made up of load-bearing index A and speed rating B.
RIf the size description of your tire includes
"ZR" and there are no service specifications, ask the tire manufacturer in order to find out the maximum speed.
If a service specification is available, the maximum speed is limited according to the speed rating in the service specification. Example: 245/40 ZR18 97 Y. In this example, "97 Y" is the service specification. The letter "Y" represents the speed rating. The maximum speed of the tire is limited to 186 mph (300 km/h).
RThe size description for all tires with
maximum speeds of over 186 mph (300 km/h) must include "ZR", and the service specification must be given in parentheses. Example: 275/40 ZR 18 (99 Y). Speed rating "(Y)" indicates that the maximum speed of the tire is over 186 mph (300 km/h). Ask the tire manufacturer about the maximum speed.
All-weather tires and winter tires
Load index
All about wheels and tires
419
Index
Speed rating
Q M+S2
up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
T M+S2
up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H M+S2
up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
V M+S2
up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
i Not all tires with the M+S marking provide the driving characteristics of winter tires. In addition to the M+S marking, winter tires also have the i snowflake symbol on the tire wall. Tires with this marking fulfill the requirements of the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) and the Rubber Association of Canada (RAC) regarding the tire traction on snow. They have been especially developed for driving on snow.
In addition to the load bearing index, load index : may be imprinted after the letters that identify the speed index B on the sidewall of the tire (Y page 417).
RIf no specification is given: no text (as in the
example above), represents a standard load (SL) tire
RXL or Extra Load: represents a reinforced
tire
An electronic speed limiter prevents your vehicle from exceeding the following speeds:
RLight Load: represents a light load tire
RC, D, E: represents a load range that
depends on the maximum load that the tire can carry at a certain pressure
i Tire data is vehicle-specific and may deviate from the data in the example.
Maximum load rating
Rall vehicles (except AMG vehicles):
130 mph (210 km/h)
RAMG vehicles: 155 mph (250 km/h)
RAMG vehicles with increased top speed:
174 mph (280 km/h)
The speed rating of tires mounted at the factory may be higher than the maximum speed that the electronic speed limiter permits.
Make sure that your tires have the required speed rating, e.g. when buying new tires. The required speed rating for your vehicle can be found in the "Tires" section (Y page 428).
Further information about reading tire data can be obtained from any qualified specialist workshop.
Maximum tire load : is the maximum permissible weight for which the tire is approved.
2 Or M+Si for winter tires.
420 All about wheels and tires
Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit. The maximum permissible load can be found on the vehicle's Tire and Loading Information placard on the B-pillar on the driver's side (Y page 412).
i The actual values for tires are vehicle-
specific and may deviate from the values in the illustration.
DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)
U.S. tire regulations prescribe that every tire manufacturer or retreader must imprint a TIN in or on the sidewall of every tire produced.
Tire size: identifier = describes the tire size.
Tire type code: tire type code ? can be used by the manufacturer as a code to describe specific characteristics of the tire.
Date of manufacture: date of manufacture A provides information about the age of a tire. The first and second positions represent the week of manufacture, starting with "01" for the first calendar week. Positions three and four represent the year of manufacture. For example, a tire that is marked with "3208", was manufactured in week 32 in 2008.
i Tire data is vehicle-specific and may deviate from the data in the example.
Tire characteristics
The TIN is a unique identification number. The TIN enables the tire manufacturers or retreaders to inform purchasers of recalls and other safety-relevant matters. It makes it possible for the purchaser to easily identify the affected tires.
The TIN is made up of manufacturer identification code ;, tire size =, tire type code ? and manufacturing date A.
DOT (Department of Transportation): tire symbol : indicates that the tire complies with the requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Manufacturer identification code: manufacturer identification code ; provides details on the tire manufacturer. New tires have a code with two symbols. Retreaded tires have a code with four symbols.
For further information about retreaded tires, see (Y page 428).
This information describes the type of tire cord and the number of layers in sidewall : and under tire tread ;.
i Tire data is vehicle-specific and may deviate from the data in the example.
Definition of terms for tires and loading
Tire ply composition and material used
Describes the number of plies or the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and sidewall. These are made of steel, nylon, polyester and other materials.
Bar
Metric unit for tire pressure. 14.5038 pounds per square inch (psi) and
All about wheels and tires
421
100 kilopascals (kPa) are the equivalent of 1 bar.
vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar on the driver's side.
DOT (Department of Transportation)
Speed rating
DOT marked tires fulfill the requirements of the United States Department of Transportation.
The speed rating is part of the tire identification. It specifies the speed range for which the tire is approved.
Normal occupant weight
GTW (Gross Trailer Weight)
The number of occupants which the vehicle is designed for, multiplied by 68 kilograms (150 lb).
The GTW is the weight of a trailer including the weight of the load, luggage, accessories etc. on the trailer.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards
GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight)
A uniform standard to grade the quality of tires with regards to tread quality, tire traction and temperature characteristics. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using U.S. government testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the sidewall of the tire.
Recommended tire pressure
The recommended tire pressure applies to the tires mounted at the factory.
The Tire and Loading Information placard contains the recommended tire pressures for cold tires on a fully loaded vehicle and for the maximum permissible vehicle speed.
The tire pressure table contains the recommended pressures for cold tires for various operating conditions, i.e. differing load and speed conditions.
Increased vehicle weight due to optional
equipment
This is the combined weight of all standard and optional equipment available for the vehicle, regardless of whether it is actually installed on the vehicle or not.
Rim
This is the part of the wheel on which the tire is mounted.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
The GAWR is the maximum gross axle weight rating. The actual load on an axle must never exceed the gross axle weight rating. The gross axle weight rating can be found on the
The gross vehicle weight includes the weight of the vehicle including fuel, tools, the spare wheel, accessories installed, occupants, luggage and the drawbar noseweight, if applicable. The gross vehicle weight must not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating GVWR as specified on the vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar on the driver's side.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
The GVWR is the maximum permissible gross weight of a fully loaded vehicle (the weight of the vehicle including all accessories, occupants, fuel, luggage and the drawbar noseweight, if applicable). The gross vehicle weight rating is specified on the vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar on the driver's side.
Maximum loaded vehicle weight
The maximum weight is the sum of:
Rthe curb weight of the vehicle
Rthe weight of the accessories
Rthe load limit
Rthe weight of the factory installed optional
equipment
Kilopascal (kPa)
Metric unit for tire pressure. 6.9 kPa corresponds to 1 psi. Another unit for tire pressure is bar. There are 100 kilopascals (kPa) to 1 bar.
422 All about wheels and tires
Load index
In addition to the load-bearing index, the load index may also be imprinted on the sidewall of the tire. This specifies the load-bearing capacity more precisely.
Curb weight
The weight of a vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil and coolant. It also includes the air- conditioning system and optional equipment if these are installed in the vehicle, but does not include passengers or luggage.
Maximum load rating
The maximum tire load is the maximum permissible weight in kilograms or lbs for which a tire is approved.
Maximum permissible tire pressure
Maximum permissible tire pressure for one tire.
Maximum load on one tire
Maximum load on one tire. This is calculated by dividing the maximum axle load of one axle by two.
PSI (pounds per square inch)
A standard unit of measure for tire pressure.
Aspect ratio
Relationship between tire height and tire width in percent.
Tire pressure
This is pressure inside the tire applying an outward force to each square inch of the tire's surface. The tire pressure is specified in pounds per square inch (psi), in kilopascal (kPa) or in bar. The tire pressure should only be corrected when the tires are cold.
Cold tire pressure
The tires are cold:
Rif the vehicle has been parked without
direct sunlight on the tires for at least three hours and
Rif the vehicle has been driven for less than
1 mile (1.6 km).
Tread
The part of the tire that comes into contact with the road.
Bead
The tire bead ensures that the tire sits securely on the wheel. There are several steel wires in the bead to prevent the tire from coming loose from the wheel rim.
Sidewall
The part of the tire between the tread and the bead.
Weight of optional extras
The combined weight of those optional extras that weigh more than the replaced standard parts and more than 2.3 kilograms (5 lbs). These optional extras, such as high- performance brakes, level control, a roof rack or a high-performance battery, are not included in the curb weight and the weight of the accessories.
TIN (Tire Identification Number)
This is a unique identifier which can be used by a tire manufacturer to identify tires, for example for a product recall, and thus identify the purchasers. The TIN is made up of the manufacturer's identity code, tire size, tire type code and the manufacturing date.
Load bearing index
The load bearing index (also load index) is a code that contains the maximum load bearing capacity of a tire.
Traction
Rotating the wheels
Changing a wheel
423
Traction is the result of friction between the tires and the road surface.
TWR (Tongue Weight Rating)
The TWR specifies the maximum permissible weight that the ball coupling of the trailer tow hitch can support.
Treadwear indicators
Narrow bars (tread wear bars) that are distributed over the tire tread. If the tire tread is level with the bars, the wear limit of á in (1.6 mm) has been reached.
Occupant distribution
The distribution of occupants in a vehicle at their designated seating positions.
Total load limit
Rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kilograms (150 lb) multiplied by the number of seats in the vehicle.
Changing a wheel
Flat tire
You can find information on what to do in the event of a flat tire in the "Breakdown assistance" section (Y page 383). Information on driving with MOExtended tires in the event of a flat tire can be found under "MOExtended tires (tires with run-flat characteristics" (Y page 384).
The "Breakdown assistance" section (Y page 383) contains information and notes on how to deal with a flat tire. Information on driving with MOExtended tires in the event of a flat tire can be found under "MOExtended tires (tires with run-flat characteristics" (Y page 384).
Vehicles with an emergency spare wheel: in the event of a flat tire, mount the emergency spare wheel according to the description under "Mounting a wheel" (Y page 424).
G WARNING Interchanging the front and rear wheels may severely impair the driving characteristics if the wheels or tires have different dimensions. The wheel brakes or suspension components may also be damaged. There is a risk of accident.
Rotate front and rear wheels only if the wheels and tires are of the same dimensions.
! On vehicles equipped with a tire pressure
monitor, electronic components are located in the wheel.
Tire-mounting tools should not be used near the valve. This could damage the electronic components.
Only have tires changed at a qualified specialist workshop.
Always observe the instructions and safety notes in the "Mounting a wheel" section (Y page 424).
The wear patterns on the front and rear tires differ, depending on the operating conditions. Rotate the wheels before a clear wear pattern has formed on the tires. Front tires typically wear more on the shoulders and the rear tires in the center.
If your vehicle's tire configuration allows, you can rotate the wheels according to the intervals in the tire manufacturer's warranty book in your vehicle documents. If this is not available, the tires should then be rotated every 3000 to 6000 miles (5000 to 10,000 km), or earlier if the tire wear requires this. Do not change the direction of wheel rotation.
Clean the contact surfaces of the wheel and the brake disc thoroughly every time a wheel is interchanged. Check the tire pressure and, if necessary, restart the tire pressure loss warning system or the tire pressure monitor.
424 Changing a wheel
Direction of rotation
X Switch off the engine.
X Vehicles without KEYLESS-GO: remove
the SmartKey from the ignition lock.
X Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: open the
driver's door. The on-board electronics have status 0, which is the same as the SmartKey having been removed.
X Vehicles with KEYLESS-GO: remove the
Start/Stop button from the ignition lock (Y page 163).
X If included in the vehicle equipment, take the tire-change tool kit out of the vehicle.
X Secure the vehicle to prevent it from rolling
away.
i Apart from certain country-specific
variations, vehicles are not equipped with a tire-change tool kit. For information on which tools are required to perform a wheel change on your vehicle, consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.
Necessary wheel-changing tools can include, for example:
RJack
RWheel chock
RLug wrench
Securing the vehicle to prevent it from
rolling away
Tires with a specified direction of rotation have additional benefits, e.g. if there is a risk of hydroplaning. You will only gain these benefits if the correct direction of rotation is observed.
An arrow on the sidewall of the tire indicates its correct direction of rotation.
Storing wheels
Store wheels that are not being used in a cool, dry and preferably dark place. Protect the tires from oil, grease, gasoline and diesel.
Cleaning the wheels
G WARNING The water jet from a circular jet nozzle (dirt blasters) can cause invisible exterior damage to the tires or chassis components. Components damaged in this way may fail unexpectedly. There is a risk of an accident.
Do not use power washers with circular jet nozzles to clean the vehicle. Have damaged tires or chassis components replaced immediately.
Mounting a wheel
Preparing the vehicle
X Vehicle with emergency spare wheel:
when mounting the emergency spare wheel in the event of a flat tire, follow the additional notes on vehicle preparation under "Flat tire" (Y page 383).
X Park the vehicle on firm, non-slippery and
level ground.
X Unload heavy luggage.
X Apply the electric parking brake manually.
X Bring the front wheels into the straight-
ahead position.
If your vehicle is equipped with a wheel chock, it can be found in the tire-change tool kit (Y page 382).
X Shift the transmission to position P.
The folding wheel chock is an additional securing measure to prevent the vehicle from rolling away, for example when changing a wheel.
X Fold both plates upwards :.
X Fold out lower plate ;.
X Guide the lugs on the lower plate fully into
the openings in base plate =.
Securing the vehicle on level ground
X On level ground: place chocks or other
suitable items under the front and rear of the wheel that is diagonally opposite the wheel you wish to change.
Securing the vehicle on slight downhill gradients
X On light downhill gradients: place
chocks or other suitable items in front of the wheels of the front and rear axle.
Raising the vehicle
G WARNING If you do not position the jack correctly at the appropriate jacking point of the vehicle, the
Changing a wheel
425
jack could tip over with the vehicle raised. There is a risk of injury.
Only position the jack at the appropriate jacking point of the vehicle. The base of the jack must be positioned vertically, directly under the jacking point of the vehicle.
! AMG vehicles with "Minispare" emergency spare wheel: use the "Minispare" emergency spare wheel only on the rear axle. If you mount the "Minispare" emergency spare wheel on the front axle, this could result in damage to the brake system.
If a tire on the front axle is defective, an intact wheel from the rear axle must first be replaced with the "Minispare" emergency spare wheel. The defective wheel on the front axle can then be replaced with the intact wheel from the rear axle.
Make sure to note the placard on the "Minispare" emergency spare wheel.
! The jack is designed exclusively for
jacking up the vehicle at the jacking points. Otherwise, your vehicle could be damaged.
The following must be observed when raising the vehicle:
Rto raise the vehicle, only use the vehicle-
specific jack that has been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz. If used incorrectly, the jack could tip over with the vehicle raised.
Rthe jack is designed only to raise and hold the vehicle for a short time while a wheel is being changed. It is not suited for performing maintenance work under the vehicle.
Ravoid changing the wheel on uphill and
downhill slopes.
Rbefore raising the vehicle, secure it from
rolling away by applying the parking brake and inserting wheel chocks. Never disengage the parking brake while the vehicle is raised.
426 Changing a wheel
Rthe jack must be placed on a firm, flat and
non-slip surface. On a loose surface, a large, load-bearing underlay must be used. On a slippery surface, a non-slip underlay must be used, e.g. rubber mats.
Rdo not use wooden blocks or similar
objects as a jack underlay. Otherwise, the jack will not be able to achieve its load- bearing capacity due to the restricted height.
Rmake sure that the distance between the
underside of the tires and the ground does not exceed 1.2 in (3 cm).
Rnever place your hands and feet under the
raised vehicle.
Rnever lie under the raised vehicle.
Rnever start the engine when the vehicle is
raised.
Rnever open or close a door or the tailgate
when the vehicle is raised.
Rmake sure that no persons are present in
the vehicle when the vehicle is raised.
X Using lug wrench :, loosen the bolts on
the wheel you wish to change by about one full turn. Do not unscrew the bolts completely.
The jacking points are located just behind the front wheel housings and just in front of the rear wheel housings (arrows).
X Take the ratchet wrench out of the vehicle tool kit and place it on the hexagon nut of the jack so that the letters AUF are visible.
; Jacking points
= Jack
? Crank
X Position jack = at jacking point ;.
The alignment bolt on the jack must be inserted into the intended jacking point hole.
Changing a wheel
427
Mounting a new wheel
G WARNING Oiled or greased wheel bolts or damaged wheel bolts/hub threads can cause the wheel bolts to come loose. As a result, you could lose a wheel while driving. There is a risk of accident.
Never oil or grease wheel bolts. In the event of damage to the threads, contact a qualified specialist workshop immediately. Have the damaged wheel bolts or hub threads replaced/renewed. Do not continue driving.
G WARNING If you tighten the wheel bolts or wheel nuts when the vehicle is raised, the jack could tip over. There is a risk of injury.
Only tighten the wheel bolts or wheel nuts when the vehicle is on the ground.
! To prevent damage to the paintwork, hold the wheel securely against the wheel hub while screwing in the first wheel bolt.
Always pay attention to the instructions and safety notes in the "Changing a wheel" section (Y page 423).
Only use wheel bolts that have been designed for the wheel and the vehicle. For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use wheel bolts which have been approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and the respective wheel.
! Always use wheel bolts ; to mount the "Minispare" emergency spare wheel. Using other wheel bolts to mount the "Minispare" emergency spare wheel could damage the brake system.
Example
X Make sure the foot of the jack is directly
beneath the jacking point.
X Turn ratchet wrench ? until jack = sits
completely on jacking point ; and the base of the jack lies evenly on the ground.
X Turn ratchet wrench ? until the tire is
raised a maximum of 1.2 in (3 cm) from the ground.
Removing a wheel
! Do not place wheel bolts in sand or on a
dirty surface. The bolt and wheel hub threads could otherwise be damaged when you screw them in.
X Unscrew the uppermost wheel bolt
completely.
X Screw alignment bolt : into the thread
instead of the wheel bolt.
X Unscrew the remaining wheel bolts fully.
X Remove the wheel.
428 Wheel and tire combinations
: Wheel bolts for all wheels supplied by the
factory
; Wheel bolts for the "Minispare"
emergency spare wheel
X Place the ratchet wrench onto the hexagon
nut of the jack so that the letters AB are visible.
X Turn the ratchet wrench until the vehicle is once again standing firmly on the ground.
X Place the jack to one side.
X Tighten the wheel bolts evenly in a crosswise pattern in the sequence indicated (: to A). The tightening torque must be 110 lb-ft (150 Nm).
X Turn the jack back to its initial position.
X Stow the jack and the rest of the tire-
change tool kit in the stowage well under the cargo compartment floor again.
X Clean the wheel and wheel hub contact
X Check the tire pressure of the newly
surfaces.
X Slide the wheel to be mounted onto the
alignment bolt and push it on.
X Tighten the wheel bolts until they are
finger-tight.
X Unscrew the alignment bolt.
X Tighten the last wheel bolt until it is finger-
tight.
Lowering the vehicle
G WARNING The wheels could work loose if the wheel nuts and bolts are not tightened to the specified tightening torque. There is a risk of accident.
Have the tightening torque immediately checked at a qualified specialist workshop after a wheel is changed.
installed wheel and adjust it if necessary.
Observe the recommended tire pressure (Y page 404).
i Vehicles with tire pressure monitor: all wheels mounted must be equipped with functioning sensors.
Wheel and tire combinations
General notes
! For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz
recommends that you only use tires and wheels which have been approved by Mercedes-Benz specifically for your vehicle.
Wheel and tire combinations
429
These tires have been specially adapted for use with the control systems, such as ABS or ESP®, and are marked as follows:
RMO = Mercedes-Benz Original
RMOE = Mercedes-Benz Original Extended
The recommended pressures for various operating conditions can be found:
Ron the Tire and Loading Information placard
with the recommended tire pressures on the B-pillar on the driver's side
(tires featuring run-flat characteristics)
Rin the tire pressure table on the inside of
RMO1 = Mercedes-Benz Original (only
the fuel filler flap
certain AMG tires)
Mercedes-Benz Original Extended tires may only be used on wheels that have been specifically approved by Mercedes-Benz.
Only use tires, wheels or accessories tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz. Certain characteristics, e.g. handling, vehicle noise emissions or fuel consumption, may otherwise be adversely affected. In addition, when driving with a load, tire dimension variations could cause the tires to come into contact with the bodywork and axle components. This could result in damage to the tires or the vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz accepts no liability for damage resulting from the use of tires, wheels or accessories other than those tested and approved.
Information on tires, wheels and approved combinations can be obtained from any qualified specialist workshop.
! Retreaded tires are neither tested nor recommended by Mercedes-Benz, since previous damage cannot always be detected on retreaded tires. As a result, Mercedes-Benz cannot guarantee vehicle safety if retreaded tires are mounted. Do not mount used tires if you have no information about their previous usage.
Overview of abbreviations used in the following tire tables:
RBA: both axles
RFA: front axle
RRA: rear axle
Observe the notes on recommended tire pressures under various operating conditions (Y page 404).
Check tire pressures regularly, and only when the tires are cold. Comply with the maintenance recommendations of the tire manufacturer in the vehicle document wallet.
Notes on the vehicle equipment – always equip the vehicle with:
Rtires of the same size on a given axle (left/
right)
Rthe same type of tires at a given time
(summer tires, winter tires, MOExtended tires)
Vehicles with MOExtended tires are not equipped with a TIREFIT kit at the factory. It is therefore recommended that you additionally equip your vehicle with a TIREFIT kit if you mount tires that do not feature run- flat properties, e.g. winter tires. A TIREFIT kit may be obtained from a qualified specialist workshop.
i Not all wheel and tire combinations are available at the factory for all countries.
i On the following pages, you can find
information on approved wheel rims and tire sizes for equipping your vehicle with winter tires. Winter tires are not available at the factory as standard equipment or optional extras.
If you would like to equip your vehicle with approved winter tires, you may also, in certain circumstances, require rims of the appropriate size. The sizes of the approved winter tires may deviate from that of the standard tires. This is dependent on the model and the equipment installed at the factory.
430 Wheel and tire combinations
The tires and wheel rims, as well as further information, can be obtained at a qualified specialist workshop.
Tires
GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
All-weather tires
R 19
Tires
BA: 275/50 R 19 111 H M+S3
R 20
Tires
BA: 275/50 R 20 109 H M+S3
Wheel and tire combinations
431
Alloy wheels
BA: 8.5 J x 19 H2
Wheel offset: 2.44 in (62 mm)
Alloy wheels
BA: 8.5 J x 20 H2
Wheel offset: 2.44 in (62 mm)
BA: 275/50 R 20 109 H M+SMOExtended3, 4
BA: 8.5 J x 20 H2
Wheel offset: 2.44 in (62 mm)
All-terrain tires
R 18
Tires
BA: 265/60 R 18 110 H M+S
R 19
Tires
BA: 275/55 R 19 111 H M+S3
Winter tires
R 18
Tires
BA: 265/60 R 18 110 H M+Si
Alloy wheels
BA: 8.0 J x 18 H2
Wheel offset: 2.22 in (56.5 mm)
Alloy wheels
BA: 8.5 J x 19 H2
Wheel offset: 2.44 in (62 mm)
Alloy wheels
BA: 8.0 J x 18 H2
Wheel offset: 2.22 in (56.5 mm)
3 Use of snow chains not permitted. Observe the notes under "Snow chains". 4 MOExtended tires (tires featuring run-flat characteristics) only in combination with an activated tire pressure
loss warning system or tire pressure monitor.
