Get Wheels and tires Guide for Mercedes G Class SUV Third Generation (1990-2018)

Useful information ............................ 312

Important safety notes .................... 312

Operation ........................................... 313

Winter operation ............................... 314

Tire pressure ..................................... 316

Loading the vehicle .......................... 322

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Standards .......................................... 326

Tire labeling ....................................... 328

Changing a wheel ............................. 334

Wheel and tire combinations ........... 338

311

Wheels and tires

Useful information

This Operator's Manual describes all

models and all standard and optional

equipment of your vehicle available at the

time of publication of the Operator's

Manual. Country-specific differences are

possible. Please note that your vehicle may

not be equipped with all features

described. This also applies to safety-

related systems and functions.

Read the information on qualified

specialist workshops: (Y page 24).

Important safety notes

WARNING

Replace rims or tires with the same

designation, manufacturer and type as shown

on the original part. For further information

contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If incorrectly sized rims and tires are

mounted, the wheel brakes or suspension

components can be damaged. Also, the

operating clearance of the wheels and the

tires may no longer be correct.

WARNING

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire

tread is worn to minimum tread depth, or if

the tires have sustained damage, replace

them.

When replacing rims, only use genuine

Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for the

particular rim type. Failure to do so can result

in the bolts loosening and possibly an

accident.

Retreaded tires are not tested or

recommended by Mercedes-Benz, since

previous damage cannot always be

recognized on retreads. The operating safety

of the vehicle cannot be assured when such

tires are used.

WARNING

If you notice sudden significant vibrations or

unusual handling performance or if you

suspect that damage has occurred to the

vehicle, you should activate the hazard

warning lamps, gently reduce speed and

carefully head for an area that is located at a

safe distance from the road.

Check the tires and the underside of the

vehicle for damage. If the vehicle seems

unsafe, have the vehicle towed away to the

nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or tire dealer

to be repaired.

WARNING

Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects

the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You

might lose control of the vehicle. Continued

driving with a flat tire or driving at high speed

with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-

up and possibly a fire.

Warning

A flat tire severely impairs the driving,

steering and braking characteristics of the

vehicle. There is a risk of an accident.

do not drive with a flat tire. Immediately

replace the flat tire with your spare wheel, or

consult a qualified specialist workshop.

Consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center

if you require information on approved and

recommended tires and wheels for summer

and winter operation. Advice on purchasing

and caring for tires is also available there.

Accessories that are not approved for your

vehicle by Mercedes-Benz or are not being

used correctly can impair the operating

safety.

Before purchasing and using non-approved

accessories, visit a qualified specialist

workshop and ask about:

suitability

legal stipulations

factory recommendations

312

Important safety notes

Wheels and tires

Information on the dimensions and types of

wheels and tires for your vehicle can be found

in the "Wheel/tire combinations" section

(Y page 338).

Information on air pressure for the tires on

your vehicle can be found:

on the tire pressure label on the fuel filler

flap

in the "Tire pressure" section

Further information on wheels and tires

can be obtained at any qualified specialist

workshop.

Operation

Notes on driving

If the vehicle is heavily loaded, check the tire

pressures and correct them if necessary.

When parking your vehicle, make sure that

the tires do not get deformed by the curb or

other obstacles. If it is necessary to drive over

curbs, speed humps or similar elevations, try

to do so slowly and at an obtuse angle.

Otherwise, the tires, particularly the

sidewalls, may be damaged.

Regular checking of wheels and tires

WARNING

Regularly check the tires for damage.

Damaged tires can cause tire inflation

pressure loss. As a result, you could lose

control of your vehicle.

Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If the tire

tread is worn to minimum tread depth, or if

the tires have sustained damage, replace

them.

Regularly check the wheels and tires of

your vehicle for damage at least once a

month, as well as after driving off-road or

on rough roads. Damage includes bulges

and deformation on tires, cuts, punctures,

cracks or severe corrosion on wheels, for

example. Damaged wheels can cause a

loss of tire pressure.

Regularly check the tire tread depth and

the condition of the tread across the whole

width of the tire (Y page 313). In order to

inspect the inner side of the tire surface,

turn the steering wheel to full lock.

All wheels must have a valve cap to protect

the valve against dirt and moisture. Do not

install anything onto the valve other than

the standard valve cap or a valve cap

approved by Mercedes-Benz for your

vehicle.

Do not install anything onto the valve, such

as tire pressure monitoring systems.

You should regularly check the pressure of

all your tires including the spare wheel,

particularly prior to long trips. Adjust the

tire pressure as necessary (Y page 321).

The service life of tires depends, among other

things, on the following factors:

driving style

tire pressure

distance covered

Tire tread

WARNING

Although the applicable federal motor vehicle

safety laws consider a tire to be worn when

the treadwear indicators (TWI) become visible

at approximately á inches (1.6 mm), we

recommend that you do not allow your tires

to wear down to that level. As tread depth

approaches â inches (3 mm) the adhesion

properties on a wet road are sharply reduced.

Depending upon the weather and/or road

surface (conditions), the tire traction varies

widely.

Operation

313

Wheels and tires

Marking : shows the tread wear indicator

(TWI). The arrow indicates the placement of

the tire tread.

Do not drive with tires which have too little

tread depth. tire traction on wet road surfaces

decreases significantly when the tread depth

is less than

in (3 mm).

Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by

law. Six indicators are positioned over the tire

tread. They are visible once the tread depth

is approximately

in (1.6 mm). If this is the

case, the tire is so worn that it must be

replaced.

The recommended tread depth for summer

tires is at least

in (3 mm). The

recommended tread depth for winter tires is

at least

in (4 mm).

Selecting, mounting and replacing

tires

Only mount tires and wheels of the same

type and make.

Only mount approved tires of the correct

size onto the wheels.

Tires are supplied with a protective layer

from the factory. Break in new tires at

moderate speeds for the first 60 miles

(100 km). They only reach their full

performance after this distance.

Do not drive with tires which have too little

tread depth, as this significantly reduces

the traction on wet roads (hydroplaning).

Replace the tires after six years at the

latest, regardless of wear. This also applies

to the spare wheel.

Winter operation

General notes

Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified

specialist workshop at the onset of winter.

Observe the notes in the "Changing a wheel"

section (Y page 334).

Driving with summer tires

At temperatures below 45 ‡(+7 †), summer

tires lose elasticity significantly, and

therefore traction and braking power as well.

Change the tires on your vehicle to

M+S tires. Using summer tires at very cold

temperatures could cause cracks to form,

thereby damaging the tires permanently.

Mercedes-Benz cannot accept responsibility

for this type of damage.

M+S tires

WARNING

M+S tires with a tire tread depth of less than

ã in (4 mm) are not suitable for use in winter

and do not provide sufficient traction. There

is a risk of an accident.

M+S tires with a tread depth of less than ã

in (4 mm) must be replaced immediately.

WARNING

The spare wheel and M+S tires have different

tire characteristics. Driving characteristics

can be severely impaired when you mount the

spare wheel. There is a risk of an accident.

You should therefore adapt your driving style

and drive carefully. Have the spare wheel

314

Winter operation

Wheels and tires

replaced with a new wheel with an M+S tire

at the nearest qualified specialist workshop.

At temperatures below 45 ‡(+7 †), use all-

season tires or winter tires. Both types of tire

are identified by the M+S marking.

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 snow

traction, and were specially developed for

driving on snow. Only these tires will allow

driving safety systems such as ABS and

ESP

to function optimally in winter, since

these tires have been designed specifically

for driving on snow.

Use M+S tires of the same make and tread on

all wheels to maintain safe handling

characteristics.

Always observe the maximum permissible

speed specified for the M+S tires you have

mounted.

When you have mounted the M+S tires:

Check the tire pressures (Y page 316).

Restart the tire pressure monitor

(Y page 321).

You can obtain information about winter

tires that have been approved by

Mercedes-Benz especially for your vehicle

at any Mercedes-Benz Service center.

For further information about tires, see

(Y page 340).

Snow chains

Information about the use of snow chain

compatible AMG winter tires is applicable

for AMG tires. Use of snow chains is only

permissible with these tires.

On some tire sizes there is not enough

space for snow chains. To avoid damage to

the vehicle or tires, observe the "Wheel and

tire combinations" section under "Tires and

wheels".

If snow chains are mounted on the front

wheels, the snow chains could grind

against the bodywork or components of the

chassis. This could result in damage to the

vehicle or the tires.

For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz

recommends that you only use snow chains

that have been specially approved for your

vehicle by Mercedes-Benz, or are of a

corresponding standard of quality.

Only use snow chains when driving on

roads completely covered by snow.

Remove the snow chains as soon as

possible when you come to a road that is

not snow-covered.

Local regulations may restrict the use of

snow chains. Observe the appropriate

regulations if you wish to mount snow

chains.

Do not exceed the maximum permissible

speed of 30 mph (50 km/h).

If you intend to mount snow chains, please

bear the following points in mind:

Snow chains cannot be mounted on all

wheel/tire combinations (Y page 338).

Mount snow chains only in pairs and only

on the rear wheels. Observe the

manufacturer's mounting instructions.

You can deactivate ESP

(Y page 62)

when pulling away with snow chains

installed. You can thereby allow the wheels

to spin in a controlled manner, achieving an

increased driving force (cutting action).

Winter operation

315

Wheels and tires

Tire pressure

Tire pressure specifications

Important safety notes

WARNING

Underinflated or overinflated tires pose the

following risks:

the tires may burst, especially as the load

and vehicle speed increase.

the tires may wear excessively and/or

unevenly, which may greatly impair tire

traction.

the driving characteristics, as well as

steering and braking, may be greatly

impaired.

There is a risk of an accident.

Follow recommended tire inflation pressures

and check the pressure of all the tires

including the spare wheel:

monthly, at least

if the load changes

before beginning a long journey

under different operating conditions, e.g.

off-road driving

If necessary, correct the tire pressure.

The specifications on the sample Tire and

Loading Information placard and tire

pressure tables are examples. Tire

pressure specifications are vehicle-specific

and may deviate from the data shown here.

The tire pressure specifications that are

valid for your vehicle can be found on the

Tire and Loading Information placard and

tire pressure table on the vehicle.

General notes

The recommended tire pressures for the tires

mounted at the factory can be found on the

labels described here.

Operation with a trailer: the applicable

value for the rear tires is the maximum tire

pressure value stated in the table inside the

fuel filler flap.

Further information on tire pressures can be

obtained at a qualified specialist workshop.

Tire and Loading Information placard

Recommended tire pressures

The Tire and Loading Information placard is

on the B-pillar on the driver's side

(Y page 322).

The Tire and Loading Information placard

contains the recommended tire pressures for

cold tires. The recommended tire pressures

are valid for the maximum permissible load

and up to the maximum permissible vehicle

speed.

Tire pressure table

Example: tire pressure table for all tires permitted

for this vehicle by the factory

The tire pressure table is on the inside of the

fuel filler flap.

The tire pressure table contains the

recommended pressures for cold tires for

various operating conditions, i.e. differing

load and speed conditions.

316

Tire pressure

Wheels and tires

Example: tire pressure table with tire dimensions

If a tire size precedes a tire pressure, the tire

pressure information following is only valid

for that tire size. The load conditions "partially

laden" and "fully laden" are defined in the

table for different numbers of occupants and

amounts of luggage. The actual number of

seats may differ.

Some tire pressure tables only show the rim

diameter instead of the complete tire size,

e.g. R16. The rim diameter is part of the tire

size and can be found on the tire sidewall

(Y page 328).

If the tire pressures have been set to the

lower values for lighter loads and/or lower

road speeds, the pressures should be reset

to the higher values:

if you want to drive with an increased load

and/or

if you want to drive at higher road speeds.

The tire pressures for increased loads

and/or higher road speeds, shown in the

tire pressure table, may have a negative

effect on driving comfort.

If the tire pressure is not set correctly, this

can lead to an excessive build up of heat and

a sudden loss of pressure.

For more information, contact a qualified

specialist workshop.

Important notes on tire pressure

WARNING

If the tire pressure drops repeatedly, the

wheel, valve or tire may be damaged. Tire

pressure that is too low may result in a tire

blow-out. There is a risk of an accident.

Check the tire for foreign objects.

Check whether the wheel is losing air or the

valve is leaking.

If you are unable to rectify the damage,

contact a qualified specialist workshop.

WARNING

If you fit unsuitable accessories onto tire

valves, the tire valves may be overloaded and

malfunction, which can cause tire pressure

loss. Due to their design, retrofitted tire

pressure monitors keep the tire valve open.

This can also result in tire pressure loss. There

is a risk of an accident.

Only screw the standard valve cap or other

valve caps approved by Mercedes-Benz for

your vehicle onto the tire valve.

Use a suitable pressure gauge to check the

tire pressure. The outer appearance of a tire

does not permit any reliable conclusion about

the tire pressure. On vehicles equipped with

the electronic tire pressure monitoring

system, the tire pressure can be checked

using the on-board computer.

The tire temperature and pressure increase

when the vehicle is in motion. This is

dependent on the driving speed and the load.

Therefore, you should only correct tire

pressures when the tires are cold.

Tire pressure

317

Wheels and tires

The tires are cold:

if the vehicle has been parked without

direct sunlight on the tires for at least three

hours and

if the vehicle has been driven for less than

1 mile (1.6 km).

The tire temperature changes depending on

the outside temperature, the vehicle speed

and the tire load. If the tire temperature

changes by 18 ‡ (10 †), the tire pressure

changes by approximately 10 kPa (0.1 bar/

1.5 psi). Take this into account when

checking the pressure of warm tires. Only

correct the tire pressure if it is too low for the

current operating conditions. If you check the

tire pressure when the tires are warm, the

resulting value will be higher than if the tires

were cold. This is normal. Do not reduce the

tire pressure to the value specified for cold

tires. The tire pressure would otherwise be

too low.

Observe the recommended tire pressures for

cold tires:

on the Tire and Loading Information placard

on the B-pillar on the driver's side

in the tire pressure table on the inside of

the fuel filler flap

Observe the following for the tire pressure on

the spare wheel:

the tire and loading information table on

the B-pillar on the driver's side.

the tire pressure sticker on the inside of the

fuel filler flap.

Underinflated or overinflated tires

Underinflation

WARNING

Tires with pressure that is too low can

overheat and burst as a consequence. In

addition, they also suffer from excessive and/

or irregular wear, which can severely impair

the braking properties and the driving

characteristics. There is a risk of an accident.

Avoid tire pressures that are too low in all the

tires, including the spare wheel.

Underinflated tires may:

overheat, leading to tire defects

have an adverse effect on handling

characteristics

wear quickly and unevenly

have an adverse effect on fuel consumption

Overinflation

WARNING

Tires with excessively high pressure can burst

because they are damaged more easily by

road debris, potholes etc. In addition, they

also suffer from irregular wear, which can

severely impair the braking properties and the

driving characteristics. There is a risk of an

accident.

Avoid tire pressures that are too high in all the

tires, including the spare wheel.

Overinflated tires may:

increase the braking distance

have an adverse effect on handling

characteristics

wear quickly and unevenly

have an adverse effect on ride comfort

be more susceptible to damage

Maximum tire pressures

Example: maximum permissible tire

pressure

318

Tire pressure

Wheels and tires

Never exceed the maximum permissible tire

inflation pressure. Always observe the

recommended tire pressure for your vehicle

when adjusting the tire pressure

(Y page 332).

The actual values for tires are vehicle-

specific and may deviate from the values in

the illustration.

Checking the tire pressures

Important safety notes

Observe the notes on tire pressure

(Y page 316).

Information on air pressure for the tires on

your vehicle can be found:

on the vehicle's Tire and Loading

Information placard on the B-pillar

(Y page 316)

on the tire pressure label on the fuel filler

flap (Y page 316)

in the "Tire pressure information" section

(Y page 316)

Checking tire pressures manually

To determine and set the correct tire

pressure, proceed as follows:

Remove the valve cap of the tire that is to

be checked.

Press the tire pressure gauge securely onto

the valve.

Read the tire pressure and compare it with

the recommended value on the Tire and

Loading Information placard on the B-pillar

on the driver's side of your vehicle

(Y page 316).

The tire pressure is too low: increase the

tire pressure to the recommended value.

The tire pressure is too high: press down

the metal pin in the valve using the tip of a

pen, for example.

Air is released from the tire.

Check the tire pressure again with the tire

pressure gauge.

Screw the valve cap onto the valve.

Repeat these steps for the other tires.

Tire pressure monitor

Important safety notes

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

system is not operating properly. The TPMS

Tire pressure

319

Wheels and tires

malfunction indicator is combined with the

low tire pressure telltale. When the system

detects a malfunction, the warning lamp will

flash for approximately a minute and then

remain continuously illuminated. This

sequence will be repeated every time the

vehicle is started as long as the malfunction

exists.

When the malfunction indicator is illuminated,

the system may not be able to detect or signal

low tire pressure as intended. TPMS

malfunctions may occur for a variety of

reasons, including the installation of

incompatible replacement or alternate tires

or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the

TPMS from functioning properly. Always

check the TPMS malfunction telltale after

replacing one or more tires or wheels on your

vehicle to ensure that the replacement or

alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to

continue to function properly.

It is the driver's responsibility to set the tire

pressure to the recommended cold tire

pressure suitable for the operating situation

(Y page 316). Note that the correct tire

pressure for the current operating situation

must first be taught-in to the tire pressure

monitor. If there is a substantial loss of

pressure, the warning threshold for the

warning message is aligned to the reference

values taught-in. Restart the tire pressure

monitor after adjusting to the cold tire

pressure (Y page 321). The current

pressures are saved as new reference values.

As a result, a warning message will appear if

the tire pressure drops significantly.

The tire pressure monitor does not warn you

of an incorrectly set tire pressure. Observe

the notes on the recommended tire pressure

(Y page 316).

The tire pressure monitor is not able to warn

you of a sudden loss of pressure, e.g. if the

tire is penetrated by a foreign object. In the

event of a sudden loss of pressure, bring the

vehicle to a halt by braking carefully. Avoid

abrupt steering maneuvers.

If a tire pressure monitor system is installed,

the vehicle's wheels have sensors installed

that monitor the tire pressures in all four tires.

The tire pressure monitor warns you if the

pressure drops in one or more of the tires. The

tire pressure monitor only functions if the

correct wheel electronics units are installed

on each 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:

if 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.

USA only: if the warning lamp flashes for

around a minute and then remains lit

constantly, the tire pressure monitor is

malfunctioning.

Information on tire pressures is displayed in

the multifunction display. After a few minutes

of driving, the current tire pressure of each

tire is shown in the multifunction display.

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.

320

Tire pressure

Wheels and tires

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.

USA only:

This device complies with part 15 of the

FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the

following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause interference,

and

2. this device must accept any interference

received, including interference that may

cause undesired operation of the device.

Any unauthorized modification to this

device could void the user's authority to

operate the equipment.

Canada only:

This device complies with RSS-210 of

Industry Canada. Operation is subject to

the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause interference,

and

2. this device must accept any interference

received, including interference that may

cause undesired operation.

Any unauthorized modification to this

device could void the user's authority to

operate the equipment.

Checking tire pressure electronically

Make sure that the SmartKey is in

position 2 (Y page 139) in the ignition lock.

Press the = or ; button on the

steering wheel to select the

Serv.Serv. menu.

Press the 9 or : button to select

Tire PressureTire Pressure.

Press button a.

The current tire pressure for each wheel will

be displayed in the multifunction display.

If the vehicle has been parked for over

20 minutes, the message

Tire pressureTire pressure

will be displayed after driving a

few minutesfew minutes appears.

After a teach-in period, the tire pressure

monitor automatically recognizes new wheels

or new sensors. As long as a clear allocation

of the tire pressure values to the individual

wheels is not possible, the

Tire PressureTire Pressure

Monitor Active

Monitor Active display message is shown

instead of the tire pressure display. The tire

pressures are already being monitored.

If a 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

spare wheel's current tire pressure.

Tire pressure monitor warning

messages

If the tire pressure monitor detects a

significant pressure loss on 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.

If the

Correct Tire PressureCorrectCorrect Tire PressureCorrect

Tire Pressure

Tire Pressure message appears in the

multifunction display, check the tire

pressure on all four wheels and correct it if

necessary.

If the wheel positions on the vehicle are

interchanged, 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

Tire pressure

321

Wheels and tires

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.

Set the tire pressure to the value

recommended for the corresponding

driving situation on the Tire and Loading

Information placard on the driver's side

B-pillar (Y page 316).

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 316).

Make sure that the tire pressure is correct

on all four wheels.

Make sure that the SmartKey is in

position 2 (Y page 139) in the ignition lock.

Press the = or ; button on the

steering wheel to select the

Serv.Serv. menu.

Press the 9 or : button to select

Tire PressureTire Pressure.

Press the a button.

The multifunction display shows the

current tire pressure for the individual tires

or the

Tire pressure will beTire pressure will be

displayed after driving a few

minutesminutes message.

Press the : button.

The

Use Current Pressures as NewUse Current Pressures as New

Reference Values

Reference Values message appears in

the multifunction display.

If you wish to confirm the restart:

Press the a button.

The

Tire Press. Monitor RestartedTire 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:

Press the % button.

The tire pressure values stored at the last

restart will continue to be monitored.

Loading the vehicle

Instruction labels for tires and loads

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.

B-pillar, driver's side

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

322

Loading the vehicle

Wheels and tires

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.

Maximum permissible gross vehicle

weight rating

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,

cargo, luggage and trailer load/noseweight (if

applicable) must not exceed the specified

value.

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

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.

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".

Step 1: Locate the statement "The

combined weight of occupants and cargo

should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs." on

your vehicle’s Tire and Loading Information

placard.

Step 2: Determine the combined weight of

the driver and passengers that will be riding

in your vehicle.

Step 3: Subtract the combined weight of

the driver and passengers from XXX

kilograms or XXX lbs.

Loading the vehicle

323

Wheels and tires

Step 4: The resulting figure equals the

available amount of cargo and luggage load

capacity. For example, if the "XXX" amount

equals 1400 lbs and there will be five 150-

pound passengers in your vehicle, the

amount of available cargo and luggage load

capacity is 650 lbs (1400 – 750 (5 x 150)

= 650 lbs).

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.

Step 6 (if applicable): If your vehicle will

be towing a trailer, load from your trailer

will be transferred to your vehicle. This

reduces the available cargo and luggage

load capacity of your vehicle

(Y page 352).

324

Loading the vehicle

Wheels and tires

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 1500 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 322).

The higher the weight of all the occupants, the smaller the maximum load for luggage.

Additional information when towing a trailer (Y page 352).

Step 1

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3

Combined maximum

weight of occupants and

cargo (data from the Tire

and Loading Information

placard)

1500 lbs (680 kg) 1500 lbs (680 kg) 1500 lbs (680 kg)

Step 2

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3

Number of

people in the

vehicle (driver

and

occupants)

5 3 1

Distribution of

the occupants

Front: 2

Rear: 3

Front: 1

Rear: 2

Front: 1

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)

Occupant 1: 200 lbs

(91 kg)

Occupant 2: 190 lbs

(86 kg)

Occupant 3: 150 lbs

(68 kg)

Occupant 1:

150 lbs (68 kg)

Gross weight

of all

occupants

750 lbs (340 kg) 540 lbs (245 kg) 150 lbs (68 kg)

Loading the vehicle

325

Wheels and tires

Step 3

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3

Permissible load

(maximum gross

vehicle weight

rating from the Tire

and Loading

Information

placard minus the

gross weight of all

occupants)

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)

Vehicle identification plate

Even if you have calculated the total load

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 322).

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 10% of the gross weight of the

trailer and its load.

Only use a trailer tow hitch that has been

approved for your vehicle by Mercedes-Benz.

Comply with the manufacturer's operating

instructions for operation, care and

maintenance.

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

326

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards

Wheels and tires

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.

Example:

Treadwear grade: 200

Traction grade: AA

Temperature grade: A

All passenger car tires must conform to the

statutory safety requirements in addition to

these grades.

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

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 313). 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 314).

Temperature

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

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards

327

Wheels and tires

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 of tire labeling

Uniform tire Quality Grading Standard

(Y page 332)

;

DOT tire Identification Number

(Y page 331)

Maximum tire load (Y page 331)

Maximum tire pressures (Y page 318)

Manufacturer

Tire material (Y page 331)

Tire size designation, load-bearing

capacity and speed rating (Y page 328)

Load identification (Y page 330)

Tire name

The markings described above are on the tire

in addition to the tire name (sales

designation) and the manufacturer's name.

Tire data is vehicle-specific and may

deviate from the data in the example.

Tire size designation, load-bearing

capacity and speed rating

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.

Therefore, only use tire types and sizes

approved for your vehicle model. Observe the

tire load rating and speed rating required for

your vehicle.

Tire width

;

Height-width ratio in percentage

Tire code

Rim diameter

Load bearing index

Speed rating

General: depending on the manufacturer's

standards, a letter is imprinted into the tire

wall before 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:

passenger vehicle tires according to U.S.

manufacturing standards.

328

Tire labeling

Wheels and tires

If "P" precedes the size description: 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: height-width ratio ; is

the ratio between tire height and tire width.

The aspect ratio is calculated by dividing the

tire width by the tire height. The resulting

quotient is given as a percentage.

Tire code: tire code = shows 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: B load bearing index

A (also load index) 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 322).

Example:

Load-bearing index 91 indicates a maximum

load of 1356 lbs (615 kg) that the tires can

bear. For further information on the maximum

tire load in kilograms and pounds, see

(Y page 331).

For further information on the load bearing

index, see "Load index" (Y page 330).

Speed rating: speed rating B specifies the

approved maximum speed of the tire.

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.

Since 2009, tires in Europe which

correspond to the noise limitations of

Directive ECE-R 117 show an >>S<<

(Sound) mark. This identification follows

the type approval number and has no

connection with the speed rating.

Summer tires

Index Speed rating

Q up to 100 mph (160 km/h)

R up to 106 mph (170 km/h)

S up to 112 mph (180 km/h)

T up to 118 mph (190 km/h)

H up to 130 mph (210 km/h)

V up to 149 mph (240 km/h)

W up to 168 mph (270 km/h)

Y 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)

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 ZR18).

The service specification is made up of

load-bearing index A and speed rating

If the size description of your tire includes

"ZR" and there are no service

Tire labeling

329

Wheels and tires

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 ZR 18 97 Y. In this

example, "97 Y" is the service specification.

The letter "Y" represents the speed rating

and the maximum speed of the tire is

limited to 186 mph(300 km/h).

The 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). The 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

Index Speed rating

Q M+S

up to 100 mph (160 km/h)

T M+S

up to 118 mph (190 km/h)

H M+S

up to 130 mph (210 km/h)

V M+S

up to 149 mph (240 km/h)

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).

These tires have been developed

specifically for driving on snow.

When the electronic speed limiter is set, your

vehicle is prevented from exceeding 130 mph

(210 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 340).

Further information about reading tire data

can be obtained from any qualified specialist

workshop.

Load index

In addition to the load bearing index, load

rating : may be imprinted after the letters

that identify speed rating B on the sidewall

of the tire (Y page 328).

If no specification is given: no text (as in the

example above), represents a standard

load (SL) tire

XL or Extra Load: represents a reinforced

tire

Light Load: represents a light load tire

C, D, E: represents a load range that

depends on the maximum load that the tire

can carry at a certain pressure

Tire data is vehicle-specific and may

deviate from the data in the example.

Or M+Si for winter tires.

330

Tire labeling

Wheels and tires

Maximum load rating

Maximum tire load : is the maximum

permissible weight for which the tire is

approved.

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 322).

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

manufacturer of new tires or retreader has to

imprint a TIN in or on the sidewall of each tire

produced.

The TIN is a unique identification number. The

TIN enables tire manufacturers 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 312).

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.

Tire data is vehicle-specific and may

deviate from the data in the example.

Tire characteristics

Tire labeling

331

Wheels and tires

This information describes the type of tire

cord and the number of layers in

sidewall : and under tire tread ;.

Tire data is vehicle-specific and may

deviate from the data in the example.

Definition of terms for tires and

Tire ply composition and material used

Describes the number of layers or the number

of rubber-coated belts in the tread and the

sidewall of the tire. These are made of steel,

nylon, polyester and other materials.

Bar

Metric unit for tire pressure.

14.5038 pounds per square inch (psi) and

100 kilopascals (kPa) are the equivalent of

1 bar.

DOT (Department of Transportation)

DOT marked tires fulfill the requirements of

the United States Department of

Transportation.

Normal occupant weight

The number of occupants for which the

vehicle is designed multiplied by

68 kilograms (150 lbs).

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards

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

vehicle identification plate on the B-pillar on

the driver's side.

Speed rating

The speed rating is part of the tire

identification. It specifies the speed range for

which the tire is approved.

GTW (Gross Trailer Weight)

The GTW is the weight of a trailer including

the weight of the load, luggage, accessories

etc. on the trailer.

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight)

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

332

Tire labeling

Wheels and tires

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:

the curb weight of the vehicle

the weight of the accessories

the load limit

the 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. 100 kilopascals (kPa) are the

equivalent of 1 bar.

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:

if the vehicle has been parked without

direct sunlight on the tires for at least three

hours and

if the vehicle has not been driven further

than 1 mile (1.6 km)

Tread

The part of the tire that comes into contact

with the road.

Tire labeling

333

Wheels and tires

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 kg (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

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

Nominal load and luggage load plus 150 lbs

(68 kg) multiplied by the number of seats in

the vehicle.

Changing a wheel

Flat tire

The "Breakdown assistance" section

(Y page 298) contains information and notes

on how to deal with a flat tire.

Rotating the wheels

WARNING

Rotate front and rear wheels only if the tires

are of the same dimension.

If your vehicle is equipped with mixed-size

tires (different tire dimensions front vs. rear),

tire rotation is not possible.

WARNING

Have the tightening torque checked after

changing a wheel. The wheels could come

loose if they are not tightened to a torque of

96 lb-ft (130 Nm).

Only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts

specified for your vehicle's rims.

On vehicles equipped with a tire pressure

monitor, electronic components are

located in the wheel.

334

Changing a wheel

Wheels and tires

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.

Rotating front and rear wheels of differing

dimensions can render the general operating

permit invalid.

Always pay attention to the instructions and

safety notices in the section on "Changing a

wheel and mounting a spare wheel"

(Y page 335).

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 no

warranty book is available, the tires should be

rotated every 3,000 to

6,000 miles(5,000 to 10,000 km), or earlier if

tire wear requires. 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 rotated. Check the tire pressure and

reactivate the tire pressure monitor

(Y page 319) if necessary.

Direction of rotation

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.

You may mount the spare wheel against the

direction of rotation. Adhere to the time

restriction on use as well as the speed

limitation specified on the spare wheel.

Storing wheels

Store tires 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

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

WARNING

You must remove the spare wheel from the

spare wheel carrier before lifting the vehicle.

Otherwise the vehicle could fall off the jack

and injure you or others.

Prepare the vehicle as described

(Y page 298).

Remove the vehicle tool kit and the jack

(Y page 296).

Secure the vehicle to prevent it from rolling

away.

Remove the spare wheel from the spare

wheel bracket (Y page 297).

Vehicles without a spare wheel or

emergency spare wheel are not equipped

with a tire-change tool kit at the factory. For

more information on which tools are

required to perform a wheel change on your

vehicle e.g. lug wrench or jack, consult an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Changing a wheel

335

Wheels and tires

Securing the vehicle to prevent it from

rolling away

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.

On downhill gradients: place chocks or

other suitable items in front of the wheels

of the front and rear axle.

Raising the vehicle

WARNING

If you do not position the jack correctly at the

appropriate jacking point of the vehicle, the

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.

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:

to 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.

the 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.

avoid changing the wheel on uphill and

downhill slopes.

before 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.

the 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.

do 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.

make sure that the distance between the

underside of the tires and the ground does

not exceed 1.2 in (3 cm).

never place your hands and feet under the

raised vehicle.

never lie under the raised vehicle.

never start the engine when the vehicle is

raised.

never open or close a door or the tailgate

when the vehicle is raised.

make sure that no persons are present in

the vehicle when the vehicle is raised.

Using lug wrench :, loosen the bolts on

the wheel you wish to change by about one

full turn. Do not unscrew the wheel bolts

completely.

336

Changing a wheel

Wheels and tires

Pump lever ;

Assemble the pump lever for the jack. It can

be found with the vehicle tool kit

(Y page 296).

Turn pressure release screw = clockwise

as far as it will go using notch ; on the

pump lever.

Pressure release screw = is closed.

Do not turn pressure release screw = by

more than one to two revolutions.

Otherwise, hydraulic fluid could escape.

Set jack : on solid ground.

Position jack : on the axle carrier

tube ; of the front or rear axle. Jack :

must always stand vertically, even on

slopes.

Make sure that jack : is correctly

positioned under axle carrier tube ;. The

front or rear axle must sit securely in the

recess of jack :.

Raise the vehicle by pumping in the

direction of the arrow until the tire is

1.2 in (3 cm) off the ground at the most.

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.

Unscrew the wheel bolts.

Remove the wheel.

Mounting a new wheel

WARNING

Always replace wheel bolts that are damaged

or rusted.

Never oil or grease wheel bolts. This could

cause the bolts to loosen in the wheel hub.

WARNING

Always replace wheel bolts that are damaged

or rusted.

Never apply oil or grease to wheel bolts.

Damaged wheel hub threads should be

repaired immediately. Do not continue to

drive under these circumstances! Contact an

authorized Mercedes-Benz Center or call

Roadside Assistance.

Incorrect wheel bolts or improperly tightened

wheel bolts can cause the wheel to come off.

This could cause an accident. Make sure to

use the correct wheel bolts.

Changing a wheel

337

Wheels and tires

WARNING

Only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts.

Other wheel bolts may come loose.

Do not tighten the wheel bolts when the

vehicle is raised. Otherwise, the vehicle could

fall off the jack.

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 334).

Clean the wheel and wheel hub contact

surfaces.

Place the new wheel on the wheel hub and

push it on.

Tighten the wheel bolts until they are

finger-tight.

Lowering the vehicle

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.

Open the pressure release screw on the

jack using the pump lever (Y page 336) by

approximately one turn.

Lower the vehicle until it is once again

standing firmly on the ground.

Place the jack to one side.

Tighten the wheel bolts evenly in a

crosswise pattern in the sequence

indicated (: to A). The specified

tightening torque is 96 lb-ft (130 Nm).

Disassemble the pump lever.

Push the jack piston back in and close the

drain plug.

Use the bolts to secure the faulty wheel to

the spare wheel bracket (Y page 297).

Stow the jack and the vehicle tools in the

vehicle again.

Check the tire pressure of the newly

installed wheel and adjust it if necessary.

A table with the tire pressures for your

vehicle can be found on the B-pillar on the

driver's side.

Wheel and tire combinations

General notes

WARNING

Replace rims or tires with the same

designation, manufacturer and type as shown

on the original part. For further information

contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If incorrectly sized rims and tires are

mounted, the wheel brakes or suspension

components can be damaged. Also, the

operating clearance of the wheels and the

tires may no longer be correct.

WARNING

Replace rims or tires with the same

designation, manufacturer and type as shown

on the original part. For further information

contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

If incorrectly sized rims and tires are

mounted, the wheel brakes or suspension

components can be damaged. Also, the

operating clearance of the wheels and the

tires may no longer be correct.

338

Wheel and tire combinations

Wheels and tires

WARNING

If you notice sudden significant vibrations or

unusual handling performance or if you

suspect that damage has occurred to the

vehicle, you should activate the hazard

warning lamps, gently reduce speed and

carefully head for an area that is located at a

safe distance from the road.

Check the tires and the underside of the

vehicle for damage. If the vehicle seems

unsafe, have the vehicle towed away to the

nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or tire dealer

to be repaired.

WARNING

Do not drive with a flat tire. A flat tire affects

the ability to steer or brake the vehicle. You

might lose control of the vehicle. Continued

driving with a flat tire or driving at high speed

with a flat tire will cause excessive heat build-

up and possibly a fire.

For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz

recommends that you only use tires,

wheels and accessories which have been

approved by Mercedes-Benz specifically

for your vehicle. These tires have been

specially adapted for use with the driving

safety systems, such as ABS or ESP

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.

Further information about wheels, tires and

approved combinations can be obtained

from any authorized Mercedes-Benz

Center.

The recommended pressures for various

operating conditions can be found:

on the Tire and Loading Information

placard with the recommended tire

pressures on the B-pillar on the driver's

side

in the tire pressure table on the inside of

the fuel filler flap

Observe the notes on recommended tire

pressure under various operating

conditions.

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.

Further information on recommended tire

pressures as well as tire pressures for

specific driving situations, see (Y page 332).

i Notes on the vehicle equipment – always

equip the vehicle with:

tires of the same size on a given axle

(left/right)

tires of the same type on your vehicle at

a given time (summer tires, winter tires,

all-weather tires, all-terrain tires)

The following pages contain information

on approved wheels 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 want to equip your vehicle with

approved winter tires, it may be necessary

to obtain wheel rims in the corresponding

size. The size of the approved winter tires

may differ from the standard tires. This is

dependent on the model and the

equipment installed at the factory.

The tires and wheel rims, as well as further

information, can be obtained at a qualified

specialist workshop.

Wheel and tire combinations

339

Wheels and tires

The tire and wheel combinations listed in the

tables below apply to the following models:

V1 G 550

V2 G 63 AMG

Not all wheel and tire combinations are

available at the factory for all countries.

Tires

G 550

All-weather tires

Tires (radial tires) Alloy wheels

265/60 R18 110V

M+S

7.5 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset:

1.69 in(43 mm)

You can obtain information about tires

and tire dimensions that are not listed here

at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Spare wheel

All-weather tires

Tires (radial tires) Alloy wheels

265/60 R18 110V

M+S

7.5 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset:

1.69 in (43 mm)

You can obtain information about tires

and tire dimensions that are not listed here

at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

G 63 AMG

Summer tires

Tires Alloy wheels

275/50 R20 113W XL

Use of snow chains

not permitted.

9.5J x 20 H2 ET 50

You can obtain information about tires

and tire dimensions that are not listed here

at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Winter tires

Tires Alloy wheels

265/55 R19 109H

M+S

9.5J x 19 H2 ET 50

You can obtain information about tires

and tire dimensions that are not listed here

at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Spare wheel

The spare wheel must be inflated to the

maximum tire pressure given in the table

on the inside of the fuel filler flap.

Tires Alloy wheels

265/55 R19 109H

M+S

9.5J x 19 H2 ET 50

You can obtain information about tires

and tire dimensions that are not listed here

at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

340

Wheel and tire combinations

Wheels and tires

Wheels and tires for Your Mercedes G Class SUV Third Generation (1990-2018)

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