2004 Mercedes C-Class Owner's Manual - Page 262

Operation Tires and wheels Tire pressure changes by approx. 1.5 psi (0.1 bar) per 18°F (10°C) of air temperature change. Keep this in mind when checking tire pressure where the temperature is different from the outside temperature. Tire temperature and tire pressure are also increased while driving, depending on the driving speed and the tire load. Check the spare tire periodically for condition and inflation. Spare tires will age and become worn over time even if never used, and thus should be inspected and replaced when necessary. Warning! Rotate the wheels before the characteristic tire wear pattern becomes visible (shoulder wear on front wheels and tread center wear on rear wheels). Thoroughly clean the inner side of the wheels after each rotation. Check and ensure proper tire inflation pressure. Warning! Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires wear unevenly, adversely affect handling and fuel economy, and are more likely to fail from being overheated. Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified vehicle capacity weight (as indicated by the label on the pillar in the driver's door opening). Overloading the tires can overheat them, possibly causing a blowout. G Rotating wheels Warning! G Have the tightening torque checked after changing a wheel. Wheels could become loose if not tightened with a torque of 80 lb-ft (110 Nm). Only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts specified for your vehicle's rims. G Rotate front and rear wheels only if they are of the same size. Follow recommended inflation pressures. Do not overinflate tires. Overinflated tires can result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes, etc. On vehicles with the same wheel size all around, wheels can be rotated every 3000 to 6000 miles (5000 to 10000 km), or sooner if necessary, according to the degree of tire wear. The same direction of tire rotation must be retained. 262