2011 Mercedes S-Class Owner's Manual - Page 484

482 Winter operation surfaces decreases significantly when the tread depth is less than 1/8 in (3 mm). RReplace the tires after six years at the latest, regardless of wear. This also applies to the emergency spare wheel/spare wheel. The service life of tires depends, among other things, on the following factors: Rdriving Rtire and ESP® driving systems to function optimally in winter, as these tires have been designed specifically for driving on snow. Use M+S tires of the same make and tread on all wheels to maintain safe handling characteristics. G Warning style pressure Rmileage M+S tires with a tread depth of less than 1/6 inch (4 mm) must be replaced. They are no longer suitable for winter operation. MOExtended run-flat system The MOExtended run-flat system allows you to continue driving the vehicle even when one or more tires lose all air pressure. The MOExtended run-flat system may only be used in conjunction with the activated tire pressure loss warning system or with the activated tire pressure monitor, and on wheels specifically tested by Mercedes-Benz. You will find notes on driving with a flat tire in the "Breakdown assistance" section (Y page 467). Always observe the maximum permissible speed specified for the M+S tires you have installed. Once you have installed the winter tires: X X Check the tire pressures (Y page 487). Restart the tire pressure monitor (Y page 487). Tires and wheels G Warning Winter operation Points to remember Have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center, at the onset of winter. Observe the notes in the "Changing a wheel" section (Y page 502). If you use your spare wheel when M+S tires are fitted on the other wheels, be aware that the difference in tire characteristics may very well impair turning stability and that overall driving stability may be reduced. Adapt your driving style accordingly. Have the spare wheel replaced by a regular road wheel with an M+S tire at the nearest authorized Sprinter Dealer. Snow chains For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz recommends that you only use snow chains which have been specially approved for your vehicle by Mercedes-Benz, or are of a corresponding standard of quality. Winter tires Use winter tires at temperatures below 45 ‡ (7 †) and on snow or ice-covered roads. Only winter tires also bearing the i snowflake symbol next to the M+S marking provide the best-possible grip in wintry road conditions. Only these tires will allow the ABS ! You must drive at raised vehicle level if snow chains have been mounted. The vehicle could otherwise be damaged. ! There is not enough space for snow chains on some wheel sizes. Observe the information under "Tires and wheels" in the