Operation

The Operation section of the Mercedes E-Class (4th gen, W212, 2009–2016) provides practical tips on tire checks and on driving safely under load or in unusual driving conditions. Regular inspections help prevent damage and accidents and contribute to the service life of the tires.

Information on driving

If the vehicle is heavily loaded, check the tire pressure and correct it before setting off.

While driving, pay attention to vibrations, noises and unusual handling, e.g. pulling to one side. These may indicate damage to the wheels or tires. If you suspect a tire defect, reduce your speed. Stop as soon as possible and check the wheels and tires for damage. Hidden tire damage can also cause this unusual handling. If no damage is visible, have the wheels and tires inspected at a qualified workshop.

When parking, make sure tires are not pinched. If unavoidable, drive slowly over curbs, speed bumps or similar edges and approach them at a shallow angle. Otherwise, the tires, especially the sidewalls, may be damaged.

Regular inspection of wheels and tires

WARNING

Damaged tires can cause tire pressure loss. This may cause you to lose control of the vehicle. Risk of accident!

Inspect the tires regularly for damage and replace damaged tires immediately.

Check the wheels and tires for damage regularly, at least once a month and after driving off-road or on rough roads. Damaged wheels can lead to tire pressure loss. Watch for damage such as

• cuts in the tire
• punctures in the tire
• cracks in the tire
• bulges in the tire
• deformation or severe corrosion on wheels

Regularly check the tread depth and the condition of the tread surface across the full width of all tires. To check the inner side better, turn the front wheels to the side if necessary.

To protect the valve from dirt and moisture, all wheels must have a valve cap. Fit only the standard valve cap or other valve caps specifically approved by Mercedes-Benz for your vehicle. Do not fit other valve caps or systems, e.g. tire pressure monitoring systems.

Check the tire pressure of all tires regularly and before every long journey. Adjust the tire pressure if necessary.

Also observe the notes on the spare wheel.

The service life of a tire depends, among other factors, on the following:

• Driving style
• Tire pressure
• Mileage

Notes on tire tread

WARNING

If the tire tread is too shallow, tire grip is reduced. The tread can no longer channel water away. This increases the risk of aquaplaning on wet roads, especially at unsuitable speeds. Risk of accident!

If the tire pressure is too high or too low, the tires can wear unevenly at different points on the tread. For this reason, regularly check the tread depth and the condition of the tread across the full width of all tires.

Minimum tread depth for

• Summer tires: 3 mm
• M+S tires: 4 mm

For safety reasons, have the tires replaced before they reach the legally required minimum tread depth.

Selection, fitting and replacement of tires

WARNING

Exceeding the specified tire load capacity or the permitted speed rating can cause tire damage and tire blowout. Risk of accident!

For this reason, use only tire types and sizes approved for your vehicle model. Observe the load capacity and speed rating required for your vehicle.

Pay particular attention to country-specific approval regulations for tires. These regulations may specify a particular tire type for your vehicle. In addition, the use of a particular tire type may be recommended for certain regions and areas of use. Further information on tires is available from tire specialists, qualified workshops or any Mercedes-Benz service outlet.

• Use only tires and wheels of the same design and make.

  Exception: In an emergency, this may be deviated from. See the section "MOExtended tires (run-flat tires)" for details.

• Fit only suitable tires to the wheels.
• Break in new tires at moderate speed during the first 100 km. Only then do the new tires develop their full performance.
• Do not wear the tires down too far. Otherwise grip on wet roads is greatly reduced (aquaplaning).
• Replace the tires after six years at the latest, regardless of wear.

Also observe the notes on the spare wheel.

MOExtended tires (run-flat tires)

With MOExtended tires (run-flat tires), you can continue driving your vehicle even if one or more tires have completely lost air.

MOExtended tires may only be used in conjunction with an active tire pressure loss warning or tire pressure monitoring system, and only on wheels specifically tested by Mercedes-Benz.

See the notes on driving with MOExtended tires in the event of a flat tire.

Vehicles with MOExtended tires are not equipped with a TIREFIT kit at the factory. If you retrofit your vehicle with tires without run-flat properties, e.g. winter tires, you should also equip it with a TIREFIT kit. A TIREFIT kit is available from a qualified workshop.

The wheel change and fitting instructions for the Mercedes E-Class W212 (model years 2009–2016) provide clear guidance for a safe and proper wheel change. All steps, from positioning the jack to tightening the wheel bolts, are explained in detail.

The correct tightening sequence and retightening of the wheel bolts after a short distance are particularly important. Mercedes places high demands on safety and quality here.

Question: Why must wheel bolts be retightened after a wheel change?

Answer: To ensure that no bolts have loosened and that driving safety is maintained.

Question: Where should the jack be positioned correctly?

Answer: At the jacking points on the body specifically provided for this purpose, as described in the manual.