2004 Mercedes CLK-Class Owner's Manual - Page 292

Operation Tires and wheels Checking tire inflation pressure i Warning! If the tire pressure drops repeatedly: G The pressures listed for light loads are minimum values offering high driving comfort. Increased inflation pressures listed for heavier loads may also be used for light loads. These higher pressures produce favorable handling characteristics. The ride of the vehicle, however, will be somewhat harder. Never exceed the max. values or inflate tires below the min. values listed in the fuel filler flap. Tire pressure changes by approximately 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. Warning! G Follow recommended inflation pressures. Do not overinflate tires. Overinflating tires can result in sudden deflation (blowout) because they are more likely to become punctured or damaged by road debris, potholes, etc. 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. Check the tires for punctures from foreign objects. Check to see whether air is leaking from the valves or from around the rim. Correct the tire pressure only when tires are cold. Regularly check your tire pressure at intervals of no more than 14 days. If the tires are warm you should only correct the tire pressure if it is too low for current operating conditions. A table on the fuel filler flap lists the specified tire inflation pressures for warm and cold tires as well as for various operating conditions. 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. 292