Get Wheels and tires Guide for Mercedes GLA SUV First Generation (2013-2019)

Useful information ............................ 324

Important safety notes .................... 324

Operation ........................................... 324

Winter operation ............................... 326

Tire pressure ..................................... 328

Loading the vehicle .......................... 335

Maximum load rating ....................... 339

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Standards .......................................... 340

Tire labeling ....................................... 341

Definition of terms for tires and

loading ............................................... 345

Changing a wheel ............................. 347

Wheel and tire combinations ........... 352

323

Wheels and tires

Useful information

This Operator's Manual describes all

models and all standard and optional equip-

ment 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 special-

ist workshops (Y page 28).

Important safety notes

WARNING

If wheels and tires of the wrong size are used,

the wheel brakes or suspension components

may be damaged. There is a risk of an acci-

dent.

Always replace wheels and tires with those

that fulfill the specifications of the original

part.

When replacing wheels, make sure to use the

correct:

designation

model

When replacing tires, make sure to use the

correct:

designation

manufacturer

model

WARNING

A flat tire severely impairs the driving, steer-

ing and braking characteristics of the vehicle.

There is a risk of accident.

Tires without run-flat characteristics:

do not drive with a flat tire.

immediately replace the flat tire with your

emergency spare wheel or spare wheel, or

consult a qualified specialist workshop.

Tires with run-flat characteristics:

pay attention to the information and warn-

ing notices on MOExtended tires (tires with

run-flat characteristics).

Accessories that are not approved for your

vehicle by Mercedes-Benz or that are not

being used correctly can impair operating

safety.

Before purchasing and using non-approved

accessories, visit a qualified specialist work-

shop and inquire about:

suitability

legal stipulations

factory recommendations

Information on dimensions and types of

wheels and tires for your vehicle can be found

(Y page 352).

Information on air pressure for the tires on

your vehicle can be found:

on the vehicle's Tire and Loading Informa-

tion placard on the B-pillar

on the tire pressure label on the fuel filler

flap (Y page 158)

under "Tire pressure" (Y page 328)

Further information on wheels and tires

can be obtained at any qualified specialist

workshop.

Operation

Information on driving

If the vehicle is heavily loaded, check the

tire pressures and correct them if neces-

sary.

While driving, pay attention to vibrations,

noises and unusual handling characteris-

tics, e.g. pulling to one side. This may indi-

cate that the wheels or tires are damaged.

If you suspect that a tire is defective,

reduce your speed immediately. Stop the

vehicle as soon as possible to check the

wheels and tires for damage. Hidden tire

damage could also be causing the unusual

324

Operation

Wheels and tires

handling characteristics. If you find no

signs of damage, have the wheels and tires

checked at a qualified specialist workshop.

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 eleva-

tions, 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

Damaged tires can cause tire inflation pres-

sure loss. As a result, you could lose control of

your vehicle. There is a risk of accident.

Check the tires regularly for signs of damage

and replace any damaged tires immediately.

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. Damaged wheels can cause a loss of

tire pressure. Pay particular attention to dam-

age such as:

cuts in the tires

punctures

tears in the tires

bulges on tires

deformation or severe corrosion on wheels

Regularly check the tire tread depth and the

condition of the tread across the whole width

of the tire (Y page 325). If necessary, turn the

front wheels to full lock in order to inspect the

inner side of the tire surface.

All wheels must have a valve cap to protect

the valve against dirt and moisture. Do not

mount anything onto the valve other than the

standard valve cap or other valve caps

approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle.

Do not use any other valve caps or systems,

e.g. tire pressure monitoring systems.

Regularly check the pressure of all the tires

particularly prior to long trips. Adjust the tire

pressure as necessary (Y page 328).

The service life of tires depends, among other

things, on the following factors:

Driving style

Tire pressure

Distance covered

Important safety notes on the tire

tread

WARNING

Insufficient tire tread will reduce tire traction.

The tire is no longer able to dissipate water.

This means that on wet road surfaces, the risk

of hydroplaning increases, in particular where

speed is not adapted to suit the driving con-

ditions. There is a risk of accident.

If the tire pressure is too high or too low, tires

may exhibit different levels of wear at differ-

ent locations on the tire tread. Thus, you

should regularly check the tread depth and

the condition of the tread across the entire

width of all tires.

Minimum tire tread depth for:

Summer tires: â in (3 mm)

M+S tires: ã in (4 mm)

For safety reasons, replace the tires before

the legally prescribed limit for the minimum

tire tread depth is reached.

Bar indicator : for tread wear is integrated

into the tire tread.

Operation

325

Wheels and tires

Treadwear indicators (TWI) are required by

law. Six indicators are positioned on the tire

tread. They are visible once the tread depth is

approximately á in (1.6 mm). If this is the

case, the tire is so worn that it must be

replaced.

Selecting, mounting and replacing

tires

Only mount tires and wheels of the same

type and make.

Exception: it is permissible to install a dif-

ferent type or make in the event of a flat

tire. Observe the "MOExtended tires (tires

with run-flat characteristics" section

(Y page 307).

Only mount tires of the correct size onto

the wheels.

After mounting new tires, break them in at

moderate speeds for the first 60 miles

(100 km), as they only reach their full per-

formance 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 lat-

est, regardless of wear.

MOExtended tires (tires with run-flat

properties)

With MOExtended tires (tires with run flat

characteristics), you can continue to drive

your vehicle even if there is a total loss of

pressure in one or more tires.

MOExtended tires may only be used in con-

junction with an active tire pressure loss

warning system or with an active tire pressure

monitor and on wheels specifically tested by

Mercedes-Benz.

Notes on driving with MOExtended tires with

a flat tire (Y page 307).

Vehicles equipped 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 can be obtained from a quali-

fied specialist workshop.

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 348).

Driving with summer tires

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

tires lose elasticity and therefore traction and

braking power. Change the tires on your vehi-

cle to M+S tires. Using summer tires at very

cold temperatures could cause cracks to

form, thereby damaging the tires perma-

nently. Mercedes-Benz cannot accept

responsibility for this type of damage.

WARNING

Damaged tires can cause tire inflation pres-

sure loss. As a result, you could lose control of

your vehicle. There is a risk of accident.

Check the tires regularly for signs of damage

and replace any damaged tires immediately.

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.

326

Winter operation

Wheels and tires

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

ter tires or all-season tires. Both types of tire

are identified by the M+S marking.

Only winter tires bearing the i snowflake

symbol in addition to the M+S marking pro-

vide the best possible grip in wintry road con-

ditions. Only these tires will allow driving

safety systems such as ABS and ESP

function optimally in winter. These tires have

been developed specifically for driving in

snow.

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

all wheels to maintain safe handling charac-

teristics.

Always observe the maximum permissible

speed specified for the M+S tires you have

mounted.

Once the winter tires are mounted:

Check the tire pressures (Y page 331).

Restart the tire pressure loss warning sys-

tem

(Y page 331) or restart the tire pres-

sure monitor

(Y page 334).

Snow chains

WARNING

If snow chains are mounted on the rear

wheels, the snow chains could cause abrasion

to the vehicle body or to chassis components.

This could cause damage to the vehicle or the

tires. There is a risk of an accident.

To avoid hazardous situations:

never mount snow chains on the rear

wheels

only mount snow chains in pairs on the

front wheels.

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".

For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz recom-

mends 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.

If you intend to mount snow chains, please

bear the following points in mind:

Snow chains may not be mounted on all

wheel/tire combinations. Permissible

wheel-tire combinations (Y page 352).

Only use snow chains when driving on

roads completely covered by snow.

Remove the snow chains as soon as possi-

ble when you come to a road that is not

snow-covered.

Local regulations may restrict the use of

snow chains. Observe the appropriate reg-

ulations if you wish to mount snow chains.

Do not exceed the maximum permissible

speed of 30 mph (50 km/h).

When snow chains are installed, never use

Active Parking Assist (Y page 189).

You may wish to deactivate ESP

(Y page 69) when pulling away with snow

chains installed. You can thereby allow the

wheels to spin in a controlled manner, ach-

ieving an increased driving force (cutting

action).

Canada

USA, Canada

Winter operation

327

Wheels and tires

Tire pressure

Tire pressure specifications

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 steer-

ing 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 includ-

ing 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.

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 monitor, the tire

pressure can be checked in the on-board

computer.

The recommended tire pressures for the tires

mounted at the factory can be found on the

labels described here.

1.) Tire and Loading Information placard

on the B-pillar on the driver's side of the vehi-

cle (Y page 335).

The Tire and Loading Information placard con-

tains 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.

Recommended tire pressures

Option 2) Tire pressure table on the inside of

the fuel filler flap.

The tire pressure table contains the recom-

mended pressures for cold tires for various

operating conditions, i.e. differing load and

speed conditions.

Specifications shown in the examples of

tire pressure tables are for illustration pur-

poses only. Tire pressure specifications are

vehicle-specific and may deviate from the

data shown here. Tire pressure specifica-

tions applicable to your vehicle are located

in your vehicle's tire pressure table.

Example: tire pressure table for all tires permitted

for this vehicle by the factory

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.

328

Tire pressure

Wheels and tires

Example: tire pressure table with tire dimensions

Some tire pressure tables show only the rim

diameters instead of the full tire size, e.g.

R18. Rim diameter is part of the tire size and

can be found on the tire sidewall

(Y page 342).

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 spe-

cialist 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, con-

tact 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 pres-

sure 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.

The tire temperature and pressure increase

when the vehicle is in motion. This is depend-

ent on the driving speed and the load.

Therefore, you should only correct tire pres-

sures when the tires are cold.

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)

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 check-

Tire pressure

329

Wheels and tires

ing 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 result-

ing 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

Underinflated or overinflated tires

Underinflation

WARNING

Tires with pressure that is too low can over-

heat and burst as a consequence. In addition,

they also suffer from excessive and/or irreg-

ular wear, which can severely impair the brak-

ing 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:

wear quickly and unevenly

have an adverse effect on fuel consumption

overheat, leading to tire defects

have an adverse effect on handling charac-

teristics

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:

have an adverse effect on handling charac-

teristics

wear quickly and unevenly

be more susceptible to damage

have an adverse effect on ride comfort

increase the braking distance

Maximum tire pressures

Never exceed the maximum permissible tire

inflation pressure. Always observe the rec-

ommended tire pressure for your vehicle

when adjusting the tire pressure

(Y page 328).

Example: maximum permissible tire pres-

sure

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 "Tire pressure information" sec-

tion (Y page 328).

330

Tire pressure

Wheels and tires

Information on air pressure for the tires on

your vehicle can be found:

on the vehicle's Tire and Loading Informa-

tion placard on the B-pillar

on the tire pressure label on the fuel filler

flap

in the "Tire pressure information" section

Checking tire pressures manually

To determine and set the correct tire pres-

sure, 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.

If necessary, increase the tire pressure to

the recommended value (Y page 328).

If the tire pressure is too high, release air by

pressing down the metal pin in the valve

using the tip of a pen, for example. Then,

check the tire pressure again using the tire

pressure gauge.

Screw the valve cap onto the valve.

Repeat these steps for the other tires.

Tire pressure loss warning system

(Canada only)

General notes

While the vehicle is in motion, the tire pres-

sure loss warning system monitors the set

tire pressure using the rotational speed of the

wheels. This enables the system to detect

significant pressure loss in a tire. If the speed

of rotation of a wheel changes as a result of a

loss of pressure, a corresponding warning

message will appear in the multifunction dis-

play.

You can recognize the tire pressure loss warn-

ing in the multifunction display in the

Serv.Serv.

menu, by the RunRun FlatFlat IndicatorIndicator ActiveActive

Press 'OK' to Restart

Press 'OK' to Restart message. Further

information on the message display can be

found under "Restarting the tire pressure loss

warning system" (Y page 331).

Important safety notes

The tire pressure warning system does not

warn you of an incorrectly set tire pressure.

Observe the notes on the recommended tire

pressure (Y page 328).

The tire pressure loss warning does not

replace the need to regularly check the tire

pressure. An even loss of pressure on several

tires at the same time cannot be detected by

the tire pressure loss warning system.

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.

The function of the tire pressure loss warning

system is limited or delayed if:

snow chains are mounted on your vehicle's

tires.

road conditions are wintry.

you are driving on sand or gravel.

you adopt a very sporty driving style (cor-

nering at high speeds or driving with high

rates of acceleration).

you are driving with a heavy load (in the

vehicle or on the roof).

Restarting the tire pressure loss warn-

ing system

Restart the tire pressure loss warning system

if you have:

changed the tire pressure

changed the wheels or tires

mounted new wheels or tires

Tire pressure

331

Wheels and tires

Before restarting, make sure that the tire

pressures are set properly on all four tires

for the respective operating conditions.

The recommended tire pressure can be

found on the Tire and Loading Information

placard on the B-pillaron the driver's side.

Additionally, a tire pressure table is

attached to the fuel filler flap. The tire pres-

sure loss warning system can only give reli-

able warnings if you have set the correct

tire pressure. If an incorrect tire pressure is

set, these incorrect values will be moni-

tored.

Observe the notes in the section on tire

pressures (Y page 328).

Make sure that the SmartKey is in position

2 in the ignition lock (Y page 143).

Press the = or ; button on the steer-

ing wheel to select the

Serv.Serv. menu.

Press the 9 or : button to select

Tire PressureTire Pressure.

Press the a button.

The

Run Flat Indicator ActiveRun Flat Indicator Active

Press 'OK' to Restart

Press 'OK' to Restart message

appears in the multifunction display.

If you wish to confirm the restart:

Press the a button.

The

Tire Pressure Now OK?Tire Pressure Now OK? message

appears in the multifunction display.

Press the 9 or : button to select

YesYes.

Press the a button.

The

Run Flat Indicator RestartedRun Flat Indicator Restarted

message appears in the multifunction dis-

play.

After a teach-in period, the tire pressure

loss warning system will monitor the set

tire pressures of all four tires.

If you wish to cancel the restart:

Press the % button.

When the

Tire Pressure Now OK?Tire Pressure Now OK? mes-

sage appears, press the 9 or : but-

ton to select

CancelCancel.

Press the a button.

The tire pressure values stored at the last

restart will continue to be monitored.

Tire pressure monitor

General notes

If a tire pressure monitor is installed, the vehi-

cle's wheels have sensors that monitor the

tire pressures in all four tires. The tire pres-

sure monitor warns you if the pressure drops

in one or more of the tires. The tire pressure

monitor only functions if the correct sensors

are installed on all wheels.

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

Serv.Serv. menu of the multi-

function display.

Example: current tire pressure display

For information on the message display, refer

to the "Checking the tire pressure electroni-

cally" section (Y page 334).

Important safety notes

WARNING

Each tire, including the spare (if provided),

should be checked at least once every two

weeks 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 pres-

sure label on the inside of the fuel filler flap. If

your vehicle has tires of a different size than

332

Tire pressure

Wheels and tires

the size indicated on the Tire and Loading

Information placard or, if available, 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 pres-

sure telltale when one or more of your tires

are significantly underinflated. Accordingly,

when the low tire pressure telltale lights up,

you should stop and check your tires as soon

as possible, and inflate them to the proper

pressure. Driving on a significantly underin-

flated 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 responsi-

bility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if

underinflation has not reached the level to

trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pres-

sure telltale.

Your vehicle has also been equipped with a

TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when

the system is not operating properly. The

TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with

the low tire pressure telltale. When the sys-

tem 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 vehi-

cle is started as long as the malfunction

exists. When the malfunction indicator is illu-

minated, 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 incom-

patible 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 that recommended for cold tires

which is suitable for the operating situation

(Y page 328). Note that the correct tire pres-

sure 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 adjust-

ing the pressure of the cold tires

(Y page 334). The current pressures are

saved as new reference values. As a result, a

warning message will appear if the tire pres-

sure 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 328).

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.

The tire pressure monitor has a yellow warn-

ing lamp in the instrument cluster for indicat-

ing a pressure loss or malfunction. Whether

the warning lamp flashes or lights up indi-

cates 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 signif-

icantly too low. The tire pressure monitor is

not malfunctioning.

if the warning lamp flashes for around a

minute and then remains lit constantly, the

tire pressure monitor is malfunctioning.

In addition to the warning lamp, a mes-

sage appears in the multifunction display.

Further information can be found on

(Y page 245).

If the tire pressure monitor is malfunctioning,

it may take more than ten minutes for the tire

pressure warning lamp to inform you of the

malfunction by flashing for approximately one

Tire pressure

333

Wheels and tires

minute and then remaining lit. When the mal-

function 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 meas-

ured 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 val-

ues 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 trans-

mitting equipment (e.g. radio headphones,

two-way radios) that may be being operated

in or near the vehicle.

Checking the tire pressure electroni-

cally

Make sure that the SmartKey is in position

2 in the ignition lock (Y page 143).

Press the = or ; button on the steer-

ing wheel to select the

Serv.Serv. menu.

Press the 9 or : button to select

Tire PressureTire Pressure.

Press the a button.

The current tire pressure of each tire is

shown in the multifunction display.

If the vehicle was parked for longer than

20 minutes, the

Tire pressure will beTire pressure will be

displayed after driving a few

minutesminutes message is shown.

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 PressureTire Pressure

Monitor Active

Monitor Active message is shown instead

of the tire pressure display. The tire pressures

are already being monitored.

Tire pressure monitor warning mes-

sages

If the tire pressure monitor detects a pressure

loss in one or more tires, a warning message

is shown in the multifunction display and the

yellow tire pressure monitor warning light

comes on.

If the

Correct Tire PressureCorrect 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 oppor-

tunity.

If the

Check Tire Pressure SoonCheck Tire Pressure Soon mes-

sage appears in the multifunction display,

the tire pressure in one or more tires has

dropped significantly and the tires must be

checked.

If the

Tire Pressure Warning TireTire Pressure Warning Tire

Failure

Failure message appears in the multi-

function display, the tire pressure in one or

more tires has dropped suddenly and the

tires must be checked.

Observe the instructions and safety notes in

the display messages in the "Tires" section

(Y page 245).

If the wheel positions on the vehicle are

rotated, the tire pressures may be dis-

played 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 refer-

ence 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.

334

Tire pressure

Wheels and tires

Set the tire pressure to the value recom-

mended for the corresponding driving sit-

uation on the Tire and Loading Information

placard on the driver's side

B-pillar (Y page 328).

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 328).

Make sure that the tire pressure is correct

on all four wheels.

Make sure that the SmartKey is in position

2 in the ignition lock.

Press the = or ; button on the steer-

ing 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 cur-

rent tire pressure for each tire or the

TireTire

pressure will be displayed after

driving a few minutesdriving a few minutes message.

Press the : button.

The multifunction display shows the

UseUse

current

current pressurespressures asas newnew referencereference

valuesvalues message.

If you wish to confirm the restart:

Press the a button.

The

Tire Press. Monitor RestartedTire Press. Monitor Restarted

message appears in the multifunction dis-

play.

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.

Radio type approval for the tire pres-

sure monitor

Country Radio type approval number

USA FCC ID: MRXMW2433A

FCC ID: MRXGG4

FCC ID: MRXMC34MA4

Canada IC: 2546A-MW2433A

IC: 2546A-GG4

IC: 2546A-MC34MA4

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 permis-

sible vehicle load. It also contains details

Loading the vehicle

335

Wheels and tires

of the tire sizes and corresponding pres-

sures 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 occu-

pants, 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 maxi-

mum 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,

load, 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 illustra-

tion are examples. The maximum permis-

sible load is vehicle-specific and may devi-

ate from the data shown here. The maxi-

mum permissible load that applies for your

vehicle can be found on your vehicle's 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 illustra-

tion 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 Load-

ing 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 com-

bined weight of occupants and cargo

should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs." on

336

Loading the vehicle

Wheels and tires

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 kilo-

grams or XXX lbs.

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-lb passengers in your vehicle, the

amount of available cargo and luggage load

capacity is 650 lbs (1400 Ò 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 capa-

city 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. Refer to

this Operator's Manual to determine how

this reduces the available cargo and lug-

gage load capacity of your vehicle

(Y page 339).

Loading the vehicle

337

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 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 Infor-

mation placard (Y page 336).

The greater the combined weight of the occupants, the lower the maximum luggage load.

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3

Step 1 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)

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3

Step 2 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 occu-

pants

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)

338

Loading the vehicle

Wheels and tires

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3

Step 3 Permissible load and

trailer load/nose-

weight (maximum

permissible load rat-

ing from the Tire and

Loading Information

placard minus the

gross weight of all

occupants)

1500 lbs

(680 kg) Ò

750 lbs (340 kg)

= 750 lbs

(340 kg)

1500 lbs

(680 kg) Ò

540 lbs (245 kg)

=960 lbs

(435 kg)

1500 lbs

(680 kg) Ò

150 lbs (68 kg) =

1350 lbs

(612 kg)

Vehicle identification plate

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 335).

Permissible Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

(GVWR): the gross weight of the vehicle, all

passengers, load and trailer load/noseweight

(if applicable) must not exceed the permissi-

ble gross vehicle weight.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): the

maximum permissible weight that can be car-

ried by one axle (front or rear axle).

To ensure that your vehicle does not exceed

the maximum permissible values (gross vehi-

cle 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 between

10%and 15% of the gross weight of the trailer

and its load.

Maximum load rating

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the

specified load limit. The maximum permissi-

ble load can be found on the vehicle's Tire and

Loading Information placard on the B-pillar on

the driver's side (Y page 335).

Maximum tire load : is the maximum per-

missible weight for which the tire is approved.

The actual values for tires are vehicle-

specific and may deviate from the values in

the illustration.

Maximum load rating

339

Wheels and tires

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Stand-

ards

Overview of Tire Quality Grading

Standards

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards are

U.S. government specifications. Their pur-

pose is to provide drivers with uniform relia-

ble information on tire performance data. Tire

manufacturers have to grade tires using three

performance factors: tread wear :, tire trac-

tion ;, and heat resistance =. These regu-

lations do not apply to Canada. Nevertheless,

all tires sold in North America are provided

with the corresponding quality grading mark-

ings on the sidewall of the tire.

All passenger car tires must conform to the

statutory safety requirements in addition to

these grades.

Where applicable, the tire grading informa-

tion can be found on the tire sidewall between

the tread shoulder and maximum tire width.

The actual values for tires are vehicle-

specific and may deviate from the values in

the illustration.

For example:

Treadwear Traction Temperature

200 AA A

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 course as a

tire graded 100.

The relative performance of tires depends

upon the actual conditions of their use, how-

ever, and may depart significantly from the

norm, due to variations in driving habits, ser-

vice practices and differences in road char-

acteristics 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, cor-

nering, hydroplaning, or peak traction char-

acteristics.

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 surfa-

ces.

You should pay special attention to road con-

ditions when temperatures are around the

freezing point.

Mercedes-Benz recommends a minimum

tread depth of ã in (4 mm) for all four winter

tires (Y page 326) to maintain normal driving

characteristics in winter. Winter tires can

reduce the braking distance on snow-covered

surfaces in comparison with summer tires.

Stopping distance, however, is still consider-

ably greater than when the road is not cov-

ered with ice or snow. Take appropriate care

when driving.

Avoid wheelspin. This can lead to damage

to the drive train.

340

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards

Wheels and tires

Temperature

WARNING

The temperature grade for this tire is estab-

lished for a tire that is properly inflated and

not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-

tion, 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 dis-

sipate 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 tempera-

ture 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

The following markings are on the tire in addition to

the tire name (sales designation) and the manu-

facturer's name:

Uniform tire Quality Grading Standard

(Y page 345)

;

DOT, Tire Identification Number

(Y page 344)

Maximum tire load (Y page 339)

Maximum tire pressure (Y page 330)

Manufacturer

Tire material (Y page 345)

Tire size designation, load-bearing capa-

city and speed index (Y page 342)

Load index (Y page 344)

Tire name

Tire data is vehicle-specific and may devi-

ate from the data in the example.

Tire labeling

341

Wheels and tires

Tire size designation, load-bearing

capacity and speed rating

Tire width

;

Nominal aspect ratio in %

Tire code

Rim diameter

Load bearing index

Speed rating

Tire data is vehicle-specific and may devi-

ate from the data in the example.

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 descrip-

tion (as shown above): these are passenger

vehicle tires according to European manufac-

turing 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. manu-

facturing 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.

Nominal aspect ratio: aspect ratio ; is the

size ratio between the tire height and the tire

width and is shown in percent. The aspect

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 149mph (240km/h) may have "ZR" in

the size description, depending on the man-

ufacturer (e.g. 245/40 ZR 18).

Rim diameter: rim diameter ? is the diam-

eter 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 which specifies the maxi-

mum load-bearing capacity of a tire.

Do not overload the tires by exceeding the

specified load limit. The maximum permissi-

ble load can be found on the vehicle's Tire and

Loading Information placard on the B-pillar on

the driver's side (Y page 335).

Example:

A load-bearing index of 91 indicates a maxi-

mum load of 1,356lb (615kg) that can be car-

ried by the tires. For further information on

the maximum tire load in kilograms and

pounds, see (Y page 339).

For further information on the load-bearing

index, see Load index (Y page 344).

Speed rating: speed rating B specifies the

approved maximum speed of the tire.

WARNING

Exceeding the stated tire load-bearing capa-

city 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.

Regardless of the speed rating, always

observe the speed limits. Drive carefully and

342

Tire labeling

Wheels and tires

adapt your driving style to the traffic condi-

tions.

Summer tires

Index Speed rating

Q up to 100mph (160 km/h)

R up to 106mph (170 km/h)

S up to 112mph (180 km/h)

T up to 118mph (190 km/h)

H up to 130mph (210 km/h)

V up to 149mph (240 km/h)

W up to 168mph (270 km/h)

Y up to 186mph (300 km/h)

ZR...Y up to 186mph (300 km/h)

ZR...(..Y) over 186mph (300 km/h)

ZR over 149mph (240 km/h)

Optionally, tires with a maximum speed of

over 149 mph (240km/h) may have "ZR" in

the size description, depending on the

manufacturer (e.g. 245/40 ZR 18).

The service specifications consist of load

bearing index A and speed rating B.

If the size description of your tire includes

"ZR" and there are no service specifica-

tions, 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 exam-

ple, "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 (300km/h).

The size description for all tires with maxi-

mum speeds of over 186mph (300km/h)

must include "ZR", and the service specifi-

cation must be given in brackets. Example:

275/40 ZR 18 (99 Y). The speed rating "(Y)"

indicates that the maximum speed of the

tire is over 186mph (300km/h). Ask the

tire manufacturer about the maximum

speed.

All-weather tires and winter tires

Index Speed rating

Q M+S

up to 100mph (160 km/h)

T M+S

up to 118mph (190 km/h)

H M+S

up to 130mph (210 km/h)

V M+S

up to 149mph (240 km/h)

Not all tires with the M+S marking provide

the driving characteristics of winter tires.

Winter tires have, in addition to the M+S

identification, the i snow flake symbol

on the tire sidewall. Tires with this marking

fulfill the requirements of the Rubber Man-

ufacturers Association (RMA) and the Rub-

ber Association of Canada (RAC) regarding

the tire traction on snow. They have been

especially developed for driving on snow.

An electronic speed limiter prevents your

vehicle from exceeding a speed of 130mph

(210km/h).

The speed rating of tires mounted at the fac-

tory 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 352).

Further information about reading tire data

can be obtained from any qualified specialist

workshop.

Or M+Si for winter tires.

Tire labeling

343

Wheels and tires

Load index

In addition to the load bearing index, load

index : may be imprinted after the letters

that identify speed index B(Y page 342) on

the sidewall of the tire.

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 devi-

ate from the data in the example.

DOT, Tire Identification Number (TIN)

Canadian tire regulations prescribe that every

new tire manufacturer 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 makes it easier for tire manufacturers or

retreaders to notify customers of recalls or

other safety-related matters. It makes it pos-

sible for the purchaser to easily identify the

affected tires.

The TIN consists of the manufacturer identi-

fication 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 Canadian Trans-

port Ministry.

Manufacturer identification code: manu-

facturer identification code ; provides

details on the tire manufacturer. New tires

have a code with two symbols. Retreaded

tires have a code with four symbols.

Further information about retreaded tires

(Y page 324).

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 devi-

ate from the data in the example.

344

Tire labeling

Wheels and tires

Tire characteristics

This information describes the tire cord and

the number of layers in sidewall : and under

tire tread ;.

Tire data is vehicle-specific and may devi-

ate from the data in the example.

Definition of terms for tires and load-

ing

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 100 kilopascals

(kPa) are the equivalent of 1 bar.

DOT (Department of Transportation)

DOT marked tires fulfill the requirements of

the Canadian Transport Ministry.

Normal occupant weight

The number of occupants for which the vehi-

cle is designed multiplied by 68 kilograms

(150 lb).

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Stand-

ards

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 con-

tains 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 recom-

mended 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 vehi-

cle, regardless of whether it is actually instal-

led 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.

Definition of terms for tires and loading

345

Wheels and tires

Speed rating

The speed rating is part of the tire identifica-

tion. It specifies the speed range for which the

tire is approved.

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight)

The gross vehicle weight includes the weight

of the vehicle including fuel, tools, the spare

wheel, accessories installed, occupants, lug-

gage and the drawbar noseweight, if applica-

ble. 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, occu-

pants, fuel, luggage and the drawbar nose-

weight, if applicable). The gross vehicle

weight rating is specified on the vehicle iden-

tification 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 corre-

sponds to 1 psi. Another unit for tire pressure

is bar. 100 kilopascal (kPa) is 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 capa-

city more precisely.

Curb weight

The weight of a vehicle with standard equip-

ment including the maximum capacity of fuel,

oil and coolant. It also includes the air-condi-

tioning system and optional equipment if

these are installed in the vehicle, but does not

include passengers or luggage.

Maximum load rating

The maximum load rating in kilograms or

pounds is the maximum weight 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.

346

Definition of terms for tires and loading

Wheels and tires

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.

Tire pressure of cold 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 not been driven further

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

part 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 accesso-

ries.

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.

Treadwear indicators

Narrow bars (tread wear bars) that are dis-

tributed 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

68 kilograms (150 lb) multiplied by the num-

ber 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 "Flat tire" section

(Y page 306). Information on driving with

MOExtended tires in the event of a flat tire can

Changing a wheel

347

Wheels and tires

be found under "MOExtended tires (tires with

run-flat characteristics" (Y page 307).

Rotating the wheels

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 acci-

dent.

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 loca-

ted in the wheel.

Tire-mounting tools should not be used

near the valve. This could damage the elec-

tronic components.

Only have tires changed at a qualified spe-

cialist workshop.

Always pay attention to the instructions and

safety notes when changing a wheel

(Y page 347).

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 inter-

vals 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, if nec-

essary, restart the tire pressure loss warning

system or the tire pressure monitor.

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 ben-

efits if the correct direction of rotation is

maintained.

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

WARNING

The water jet from a circular jet nozzle (dirt

blasters) can cause invisible exterior damage

to the tires or chassis components. Compo-

nents damaged in this way may fail unexpect-

edly. 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 imme-

diately.

Mounting a wheel

Preparing the vehicle

Stop the vehicle on solid, non-slippery and

level ground.

Apply the electric parking brake manually

(Y page 160).

Bring the front wheels into the straight-

ahead position.

Move the DIRECT SELECT lever to position

Switch off the engine.

348

Changing a wheel

Wheels and tires

Remove the SmartKey from the ignition

lock.

If included in the vehicle equipment,

remove the tire-change tool kit from the

vehicle.

Secure the vehicle to prevent it from rolling

away.

Securing the vehicle to prevent it from

rolling away

If your vehicle is equipped with a wheel chock,

it can be found in the tire-change tool kit

(Y page 306).

The folding wheel chock is an additional

safety measure to prevent the vehicle from

rolling away, for example when changing a

wheel.

Fold both plates upwards :.

Fold out lower plate ;.

Guide the lugs on the lower plate fully into

the openings in base plate =.

Securing the vehicle on level ground

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

On light 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 jack-

ing 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 jack-

ing up the vehicle at the jacking points.

Otherwise, your vehicle could be damaged.

Observe the following 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 incor-

rectly, the jack could tip over with the vehi-

cle 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 per-

Changing a wheel

349

Wheels and tires

forming maintenance work under the vehi-

cle.

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 disen-

gage 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, flat, 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.

Do not lie under the vehicle.

Do not 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 bolts com-

pletely.

The jacking points are located just behind the

wheel housings of the front wheels and just in

front of the wheel housings of the rear wheels

(arrows).

Take the ratchet wrench out of the tire-

changing tool kit and place it on the hexa-

gon nut of the jack so that the letters AUF

are visible.

Position jack = at jacking point ;.

Example

350

Changing a wheel

Wheels and tires

Make sure the foot of the jack is directly

beneath the jacking point.

Turn ratchet wrench ? until jack = sits

completely on jacking point ; and the

base of the jack lies evenly on the ground.

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.

Unscrew the wheel bolts.

Remove the wheel.

Mounting a new wheel

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.

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.

Always pay attention to the instructions and

safety notes in the "Changing a wheel" sec-

tion (Y page 348).

Only use wheel bolts that have been designed

for the wheel and the vehicle. For safety rea-

sons, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you

only use wheel bolts which have been

approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and the

respective wheel.

To prevent damage to the paintwork, hold

the wheel securely against the wheel hub

while screwing in the first wheel bolt.

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 fin-

ger-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.

Changing a wheel

351

Wheels and tires

Place the ratchet wrench onto the hexagon

nut of the jack so that the letters AB are

visible.

Turn the ratchet wrench until the vehicle is

once again standing firmly on the ground.

Place the jack to one side.

Tighten the wheel bolts evenly in a cross-

wise pattern in the sequence indicated (:

to A). The specified tightening torque is

96 lb-ft (130 Nm).

Turn the jack back to its initial position.

Stow the jack and the rest of the vehicle

tools in the vehicle again.

Check the tire pressure of the newly moun-

ted wheel and adjust it if necessary.

Observe the recommended tire pressure

(Y page 328).

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 rec-

ommends that you only use tires and

wheels which have been approved by

Mercedes-Benz specifically for your vehi-

cle.

These tires have been specially adapted for

use with the control systems, such as ABS

or ESP

, and are marked as follows:

MO = Mercedes-Benz Original

MOE = Mercedes-Benz Original Extended

(tires featuring run-flat characteristics)

MO1 = Mercedes-Benz Original (only cer-

tain 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 tes-

ted and approved by Mercedes-Benz. Cer-

tain characteristics, e.g. handling, vehicle

noise emissions or fuel consumption, may

otherwise be adversely affected. In addi-

tion, when driving with a load, tire dimen-

sion variations could cause the tires to

come into contact with the bodywork and

axle components. This could result in dam-

age 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 tes-

ted and approved.

Information on tires, wheels and approved

combinations can be obtained from any

qualified specialist workshop.

Retreaded tires are neither tested nor rec-

ommended by Mercedes-Benz, since pre-

vious 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 follow-

ing tire tables:

BA: both axles

FA: front axle

RA: rear axle

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

pressures under various operating conditions

(Y page 328).

Check tire pressures regularly, and only when

the tires are cold. Comply with the mainte-

nance recommendations of the tire manufac-

turer in the vehicle document wallet.

352

Wheel and tire combinations

Wheels and tires

Notes on the vehicle equipment – always

equip the vehicle with:

tires of the same size on a given axle (left/

right)

the same type of tires at a given time (sum-

mer tires, winter tires, MOExtended tires)

Exception: it is permissible to install a dif-

ferent type or make in the event of a flat

tire. Observe the "MOExtended tires (tires

with run-flat characteristics" section

(Y page 307).

Vehicles equipped 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 can be obtained from a quali-

fied specialist workshop.

The following pages contain information

on approved wheel rim 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 equip-

ment installed at the factory.

The tires and wheel rims, as well as further

information, can be obtained at a qualified

specialist workshop.

Not all wheel and tire combinations are

available at the factory for all countries.

Wheel and tire combinations

353

Wheels and tires

Tires

GLA 250

Summer tires

R 17

Tires Wheels

BA: 215/60 R17 96 V BA: 6.5 J x 17 H2

Wheel offset: 1.50 in (38 mm)

R 18

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/50 R18 97 V

6, 7

BA: 7.0 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 1.81 in (46 mm)

R 19

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/45 R19 95 V

6, 7

BA: 8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 1.71 in (43.5 mm)

Winter tires

R 17

Tires Wheels

BA: 215/60 R17 96 H M+Si BA: 6.5 J x 17 H2

Wheel offset: 1.50 in (38 mm)

R 18

Tires Wheels

BA: 215/55 R18 95 H M+Si

BA: 6.5 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 1.50 in (38 mm)

BA: 235/50 R18 97 H M+Si

BA: 7.0 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 1.81 in (46 mm)

Also available as MOExtended tires.

Use of snow chains not permitted. Observe the notes in the "Snow chains" section.

354

Wheel and tire combinations

Wheels and tires

R 19

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/45 R19 95 H M+Si

BA: 8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 1.71 in (43.5 mm)

All-weather tires

R 18

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/50 R18 97 H

6, 7

BA: 7.0 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 1.81 in (46 mm)

R 19

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/45 R19 95 H

6, 7

BA: 8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 1.71 in (43.5 mm)

GLA 250 4MATIC

Summer tires

R 17

Tires Wheels

BA: 215/60 R17 96 V BA: 6.5 J x 17 H2

Wheel offset: 1.50 in (38 mm)

R 18

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/50 R18 97 V

6, 7

BA: 7.0 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 1.81 in (46 mm)

R 19

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/45 R19 95 V

6, 7

BA: 8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 1.71 in (43.5 mm)

Use of snow chains not permitted. Observe the notes in the "Snow chains" section.

Also available as MOExtended tires.

Wheel and tire combinations

355

Wheels and tires

Winter tires

R 17

Tires Wheels

BA: 215/60 R17 96 H M+Si BA: 6.5 J x 17 H2

Wheel offset: 1.50 in (38 mm)

R 18

Tires Wheels

BA: 215/55 R18 95 H M+Si

BA: 6.5 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 1.50 in (38 mm)

BA: 235/50 R18 97 H M+Si

BA: 7.0 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 1.81 in (46 mm)

R 19

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/45 R19 95 H M+Si

BA: 8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 1.71 in (43.5 mm)

All-weather tires

R 18

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/50 R18 97 H

6, 7

BA: 7.0 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 1.81 in (46 mm)

R 19

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/45 R19 95 H

6, 7

BA: 8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 1.71 in (43.5 mm)

Also available as MOExtended tires.

Use of snow chains not permitted. Observe the notes in the "Snow chains" section.

356

Wheel and tire combinations

Wheels and tires

GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC

Summer tires

R 19

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/45 ZR19 99 Y XL

BA: 8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 1.71 in (43.5 mm)

R 20

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/40 ZR20 96 Y XL

BA: 8.0 J x 20 H2

Wheel offset: 1.71 in (43.5 mm)

Winter tires

R 18

Tires Wheels

BA: 215/55 R18 99 V XL M+S i BA: 7.5 J x 18 H2

Wheel offset: 1.67 in (42.5 mm)

R 19

Tires Wheels

BA: 235/45 R19 99 V XL M+S i

BA: 8.0 J x 19 H2

Wheel offset: 1.71 in (43.5 mm)

Use of snow chains not permitted. Observe the notes in the "Snow chains" section.

Wheel and tire combinations

357

Wheels and tires

358

Wheels and tires for Your Mercedes GLA SUV First Generation (2013-2019)

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