MPE430

I am thinking about moving up to 18" wheels for my 06 E500. Any disadvantages to doing so: Ride quality? Handling? MPG difference? Any comments welcome.
Thanks.

khaug

I went with BBS forged 18x8" wheels and 245/40 tires on our CDI, and I've been quite pleased. Ride quality is better, if anything (!), and braking and cornering performance are improved. The only drawback seems to be a 4-5% fuel mileage penalty, probably imposed by the high-performance tires I've fitted. The OE Michelins I replaced apparently were selected primarily for low rolling resistance, as they were noisy and performed poorly in general.

Suggestions:

-Do your homework. Your owners manual lists approved wheel and tire sizes and wheel offsets. Stick closely to them.

-Go with a well-known brand of wheel such as BBS to avoid quality issues that can occur with cheapie wheels.

-If possible, choose wheels that are lighter than OE. My wheel/tire combo weighs 47# as opposed to the 49# OE wheels/tires. This is a reduction in unsprung rotating mass that can only do good things for performance. Some aftermarket wheels are monstrously heavy!

-Your new wheels will likely use different lug bolts than the OE wheels. Be sure to carry a set of OE lug bolts for your spare, as well as a lug wrench that'll work with your new wheels.

-Make sure the price you're quoted includes lug bolts and centering rings (if needed).

-www.tirerack.com is an invaluable resource.

Good luck. Overall, I'm happy with the results of what I did.

Scambo

Love my 18's. Minor road noise increase. Excellent handling, cornering, and look.

MPE430

Thanks for all of the information- I am going with 18" AMG Style III 5-spokes

dannieboiz

Depending on what you're trying to go after. I went with 19, and I'm glad I did. When I see the E on the road with 18's it looks too small for the car. I have 235/35/19 all around. Ride is not that bad.

kenkenbenz

Get at least 19"! You will definately be glad you did. If you are already thinking of spending your hard earned money might as well get a nice one. 19" shouldn't be that much more than 18". I guess it would depends on type of wheel and tires you are looking at, but DO look in to it. Ask more people and check out other E-class in this forums. Hey, how about 20"!

ATS

I have the 18" AMG wheels and they are great. Handling is much better then my appearance package wheels which are now my winter set.

georgedaman

Just a note.Make sure you keep the tirepressure as "recomended"..It should NOT be too high as most wheeldealer will advise you. I can not remember the numbers, but i took the OEM CLS values since their stock is our upgrade and the car has similar weight.
BTW..i hydraulics and i ride on sport 1 mode...still very comfortable even in the city