2011 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 348
2011 Mercedes ML-Class Manual
Page 348 highlights
346 Definitions for tires and loading Maximum tire load The maximum tire load in kilograms or pounds is the maximum weight for which a tire is approved. Tire bead The tire bead contains steel wire which is bound by steel cords that hold the tire on the wheel rim. Maximum permissible tire pressure Maximum permissible tire pressure for one tire. Sidewall The part of the tire between the tread and the tire bead. Maximum load on one tire Maximum load on one tire. This is calculated by dividing the maximum axle load of one axle by two. Weight of optional extras The combined weight of those optional extras that weigh more than the replaced standard part and more than 2.3 kilograms (5 lbs). These optional extras, such as highperformance brakes, level control, a roof rack or a high-performance battery, are not included in the unladen weight and the weight of the accessories. Tires and wheels PSI (pounds per square inch) Standard unit of measurement for tire pressure. Aspect ratio Relationship between tire height and tire width in percent. TIN (Tire Identification Number) A unique identification number which can be used by a tire manufacturer to identify tires, for example for a product recall, and thus identify the purchasers. The TIN is made up of the manufacturer's identity code, tire size, tire type code and the manufacturing date. Tire pressure Pressure inside the tire applying an outward force to every square inch of the tire's surface. The tire pressure is specified in pounds per square inch (psi), in kilopascal (kPa) or in bar. The tire pressure should only be corrected when the tires are cold. For this, the vehicle must have been stationary for at least three hours or not have traveled more than 1.6 km (1 mile) in this time. Load bearing index The load bearing index (also load index) is a code that contains the maximum load bearing capacity of a tire. Traction Traction is the result of friction between the tires and the road surface. Tire tread The part of the tire that comes into contact with the road.