2004 Mercedes SL-Class Owner's Manual - Page 265

Operation Tires and wheels i 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 maximum values or inflate tires below the minimum 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. The tire temperature and with it the tire pressure is increased also while driving, depending on the driving speed and the tire load. Warning! G Checking tire pressure electronically* The tire inflation pressure monitor only functions on wheels that are equipped with the proper electronic sensors. It monitors the tire inflation pressure, as selected by the driver, in all four tires. A warning is issued to alert you to a decrease in pressure in one or more of the tires. Tire pressure inquiries are made using the multifunction display ( page 127). The present inflation pressures are displayed only after a few minutes travel time. You can select the unit of measure used for the tire inflation pressure by changing the setting in the control system ( page 147). 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. 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. 264