Roadside assistance

Flat tire. Preparing the vehicle. MOExtended tires (run-flat tires)

~4min read

The section on flat tires in the Mercedes E-Class (4th generation, W212, 2009–2016) explains how to prepare the vehicle safely and what special features MOExtended tires offer. Tips on run-flat distance and correct behavior in the event of a breakdown increase safety on every journey.

Preparing the vehicle

Your vehicle may be equipped with:
  • MOExtended tires (run-flat tires)

    For vehicles with MOExtended tires, vehicle preparation is not required.

  • a TIREFIT kit
  • a spare wheel (only for certain countries)
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 the vehicle with a TIREFIT kit. You can obtain a TIREFIT kit from a qualified workshop.

Information on wheel change/fitting.

Park the vehicle as far away from moving traffic as possible, on firm, non-slip, level ground.

Switch on the hazard warning lights.

Secure the vehicle against rolling away.

If possible, bring the front wheels into the straight-ahead position.

Vehicles with AIRMATIC: Make sure that the vehicle level is set to "Normal".

Switch off the engine.

Remove the key from the ignition lock.

or, on vehicles with KEYLESS-GO

Open the driver's door.

  • The ignition lock is now in position 0. This means "key removed".

    Remove the key from the ignition lock.

    Make sure the passengers exit the vehicle outside the danger zone of the road. Make sure they remain outside the danger zone during the flat tire repair, e.g. behind the guardrail.

    Exit the vehicle. Pay attention to the traffic.

    Close the driver's door.

    Place the warning triangle at a sufficient distance. Observe the legal requirements.

    MOExtended tires (run-flat tires)

    General Notes

    With MOExtended tires (run-flat tires), you can continue driving your vehicle even after complete loss of air in one or more tires. The tire must not show any clearly visible damage.

    You can recognize a MOExtended tire by the marking "MOExtended" on the tire sidewall. This marking is found next to the tire size, the load index and the speed rating.

    You may only use MOExtended tires in conjunction with an active tire pressure loss warning or tire pressure monitoring system.

    If a tire pressure loss warning message appears in the multifunction display:

    • Observe the information on display messages.
    • Check the tire for damage.
    • If you continue driving, observe the following information.
    The achievable run-flat distance is approx. 80 km when partially loaded and approx. 30 km when fully loaded.

    In addition to the vehicle load, the achievable run-flat distance depends on:

    • Driving speed
    • Road surface condition
    • Outside temperature
    The achievable run-flat distance may be shorter under high driving stress or during hard driving maneuvers, or longer with gentle driving.

    The achievable run-flat distance starts from the moment the tire pressure loss warning message appears in the multifunction display.

    You must not exceed the maximum speed of 80 km/h.

    When replacing or changing one or all tires, make sure you use the

    • size
    • the type and
    • the "MOExtended" marking.
    If a MOExtended tire cannot be fitted after a flat tire, a standard tire may be used temporarily. Make sure it is the correct size and type (summer/winter 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 the vehicle with a TIREFIT kit. You can obtain a TIREFIT kit from a qualified workshop.

    Important Safety Notes

    WARNING

    Driving in run-flat mode worsens handling, e.g. when cornering, accelerating hard or braking. There is a risk of accident!

    Do not exceed the specified maximum speed. Avoid abrupt steering and driving maneuvers as well as driving over obstacles (curbs, potholes, off-road). This applies in particular when the vehicle is loaded.

    Stop driving in run-flat mode if you notice

    • knocking noises
    • the vehicle shaking
    • smoke with a smell of rubber
    • constant ESP intervention
    • cracks in the tire sidewalls
    After driving in run-flat mode, have the wheel rims checked for continued use by a qualified workshop. The defective tire must be replaced in any case.

    The TIREFIT kit for the Mercedes E-Class W212 (model years 2009–2016) allows quick, temporary tire repair without a wheel change. The kit is simple to use and helps you stay mobile in emergencies and safely reach the next workshop.

    Important safety information on use and on the speed limit after use underlines Mercedes-Benz's high standards of vehicle safety and driver assistance. This is how the E-Class remains a reliable partner, even in exceptional situations.

    Mercedes shows how well-thought-out technology and safety combine perfectly.

  • Test yourself

    A quick Mercedes-Benz E-Class quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.