GL Class (X166) 2013-2015 after facelift became GLS (X166)

Tire Question

Old Jul 10, 2017 | 11:36 AM
  #1  
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Tire Question

2013 GL450 - 275/50R20 Pirelli Scorpion Verde tires...Long story short, I have two tires at 8/32", one at 6/32" and one a 2/32". I want to get away from the Pirelli's and have decided to replace the two tires with the most wear with the Michelin Premier LTX. (after reading positive reviews from other users in the forum and external websites)

At my last service, the MB tech mentioned that I had to replace all 4 tires at once if changing to a completely different tire due to a potential issue with mis-matched wheel speed sensor data. Is this a real concern?

While I don't love the Pirelli's, I'm not mad enough to throw away significant usable tread and $$ to replace all 4 tires.

TIA for your help
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Old Jul 10, 2017 | 01:41 PM
  #2  
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2014 GL450
Originally Posted by luke1834

While I don't love the Pirelli's, I'm not mad enough to throw away significant usable tread and $$ to replace all 4 tires.

TIA for your help
You need to replace all 4 tires. No question about it. You can't run 2 completely different thread pattern on your vehicle. You could but you don't want to risk it esp in rain/snow.
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Old Jul 10, 2017 | 05:39 PM
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I got 33k + out of the Pirellis and still had 4/32 left on them. I replaced all four with the Michelins.
You could replace two of the tires with Pirellis. However, I'd do some investigating as to why you have two tires that have worn well and two that are vastly different in tread wear???
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Old Jul 10, 2017 | 07:29 PM
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Myth of having to replace all 4 tires at the same time

I know most will tell you that you must replace all four if you only need just two tires. This is incorrect, in the Mercedes Manual on my 2015 ML350 with 4matic on page 317, under WHEEL and TIRE COMBINATION, it states on page 318, I quote,

"Notes on this vehicle equipment- always equip this car vehicle with

- tires of the SAME SIZE on a GIVEN AXLE (LEFT/RIGHT)
-the SAME TYPE OF TIRES at a given time (summer tires, winter tires,MOExtended range tires.

what this means to me is as long as you put the same size of tire (not manufacturer, you could mix Pirellis with whatever) and make sure they are all either summer, winter i.e. snow tires, or all season tires , you are OK.

Since you will eventually have to replace the other two, thats when I would match manufacturer to manufacturer.
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Old Jul 10, 2017 | 10:14 PM
  #5  
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Quotes from the "Owner's Manual" all to the side - mixing different tires on front vrs rear axle is nonsense and can be dangerous due to different tire "flex" characteristics between the two differ manuf/different construction tires.

Jump into the pool - layout the $1100 for a full set - get er done right - get a $70 rebate/Visa card - Craigslist the two useable if you think they're worth some dough..

Gee's the opportunity to drive on a full set of LTX - don't shortchange your magic carpet ride - it will be like owning a new carpet !
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Old Jul 11, 2017 | 10:02 AM
  #6  
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Originally Posted by luke1834
2013 GL450 - 275/50R20 Pirelli Scorpion Verde tires...Long story short, I have two tires at 8/32", one at 6/32" and one a 2/32". I want to get away from the Pirelli's and have decided to replace the two tires with the most wear with the Michelin Premier LTX. (after reading positive reviews from other users in the forum and external websites)

At my last service, the MB tech mentioned that I had to replace all 4 tires at once if changing to a completely different tire due to a potential issue with mis-matched wheel speed sensor data. Is this a real concern?

While I don't love the Pirelli's, I'm not mad enough to throw away significant usable tread and $$ to replace all 4 tires.

TIA for your help
In the event that you do replace all 4 tires.......I shopped around and found the best deal for Michelins at Discount Tire. If they are in your area it's worth a look. Excellent service!
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Old Jul 11, 2017 | 10:21 AM
  #7  
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2014 GL450
Originally Posted by Isawelvis

"Notes on this vehicle equipment- always equip this car vehicle with

- tires of the SAME SIZE on a GIVEN AXLE (LEFT/RIGHT)
-the SAME TYPE OF TIRES at a given time (summer tires, winter tires,MOExtended range tires.

what this means to me is as long as you put the same size of tire (not manufacturer, you could mix Pirellis with whatever) and make sure they are all either summer, winter i.e. snow tires, or all season tires , you are OK.
IMO, I don't think that's what Mercedes meant. For example, on a 2013 GL manual, on pg 402, it says:

>>
Only mount tires and wheels of the same type and make.
Exception: it is permissible to install a different type or make in the event of a flat tire.
Observe the "MOExtended tires (tires with run-flat characteristics" section
(Y page 384).
<<

See the part about type and make? So, type would be summer/winter/AS
and make would generally mean from the same manufacturer. Any reputable tire place will not mount 2 different brands on your car. You can have them mount it on the 2 wheels if you take them off and bring it to the shop and mount them back yourself.

Of course no one will stop you from using 2 different brands. It is your car after all.
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Old Jul 11, 2017 | 07:02 PM
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2 vs 4 tires Myth

Adding to my initial post above. I know we are giving conflicting information. I have never been able to get an answer to how this relates to all the new safety features on car. Especially with most cars now having 4 wheel ABS, and now Electronic Stability Control, it seems to me that the computer systems on the car are now able to adjust braking if one tire skids or apply braking to whatever tire/side that is needed to keep the car stable in turns and to stop rollovers.

It is desirable to have all four tires to be the same (i.e. manufacturer, tread design, winter/summer etc). but not all these are critical to the safety the car., especially with all the safety features now on cars. Tire size is critical as is type (summer/winter) I would only do this for a short period of time until I could match them all up .
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Old Jul 12, 2017 | 01:26 PM
  #9  
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2017 GLS 550
Tire Question

Thanks to everyone for the info.

After cold calling several tire shops in the area and talking to another MB service tech (that's 3 now for those counting along at home) there is about as much consensus among them as in the comments above.

The MB techs (1, 2, 3) recommended:
1) Replace the single tire with a new Pirelli Scorpion and then do all 4 when the remaining three are more worn. Using different brand/style tire could cause issues with the AWD system due to wheel speed sensor data variation outside the prescribed limits.

2) Replace the two most worn tires with whatever brand I want, so long as they meet MB specs, and then go with the same brand/model when replacing the remaining Pirelli's when they are more worn. No issue using the same size tire from different manufacturer, just be sure the tires on each axle match.

3) Thou shalt never mix tire brands on an AWD vehicle. With the wear I have currently, he commented that even replacing the one tire would result in an unacceptable size imbalance on the axle with the new tire. He recommended replacing all 4 tires (with Michelin, Continental, Pirelli, etc.) due to the risk of excessive long term wear and tear on the AWD system.

So...after all that, I think four new tires is the way to go. No, I'm not happy about spending $1k+ when I have three tires with plenty of tread life remaining, but at this point the lack of consensus and desire to move away from Pirelli makes the choice less difficult. Hopefully the LTX's don't disappoint!
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Old Jul 12, 2017 | 01:41 PM
  #10  
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2014 GL450
Originally Posted by luke1834
2) Replace the two most worn tires with whatever brand I want, so long as they meet MB specs, and then go with the same brand/model when replacing the remaining Pirelli's when they are more worn. No issue using the same size tire from different manufacturer, just be sure the tires on each axle match.

3) Thou shalt never mix tire brands on an AWD vehicle. With the wear I have currently, he commented that even replacing the one tire would result in an unacceptable size imbalance on the axle with the new tire. He recommended replacing all 4 tires (with Michelin, Continental, Pirelli, etc.) due to the risk of excessive long term wear and tear on the AWD system.
2 and 3 are contradictory. How can the tech says you should not mix different brands on AWD vehicle in (3) but ok to just replace the two worn tires with whatever brand?
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Old Jul 12, 2017 | 02:34 PM
  #11  
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Tire Question

Jlim,
1, 2, and 3 are three different Mercedes Techs who each had a different opinion/recommendation.
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Old Jul 12, 2017 | 03:38 PM
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Yea Luke, I think we have beaten this dead horse to death, but it was interesting. Let us know what you think of the Michelin LTX. I will be due a set of tires before winter. You probably don't have too much snow down in the lower Carolina.

Last edited by Isawelvis; Jul 12, 2017 at 03:39 PM. Reason: forget info
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Old Jul 12, 2017 | 10:43 PM
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You'll love the Mich's - I would start at 38psi all around - drive 2 weeks - then go up 2psi and see how that feels for 2 weeks as compared to 38 - in a few weeks you will have it dialed in for how you want to "feel".

Keep the beat !
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Old Sep 11, 2017 | 02:08 PM
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Beware of Michelin Premier LTX

I had installed premier LTX on my 2014 GL450 at 24k miles last summer. Truck was driven on local roads only. Today, At 34k, my tread is 4/32 - even wear so not an alignment issue. I called Michelin to file a claim for premature tread wear. After getting tires inspected at local Michelin dealer, Michelin was very nice to replace all 4 with a 65% rebate and also paid for road hazard warranty that I paid for last year. I am still having to pay about $600 out the door which sucks as these are supposed to last for 50k miles at least.

I don't have a choice but to replace with another 4 LTX's but I will be keeping a close eye on tread wear.

Tires are nice and ride good but wear was extremely dissappointing.
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Old Sep 11, 2017 | 05:07 PM
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Originally Posted by Shabab Hussain
I had installed premier LTX on my 2014 GL450 at 24k miles last summer. Truck was driven on local roads only. Today, At 34k, my tread is 4/32 - even wear so not an alignment issue. I called Michelin to file a claim for premature tread wear. After getting tires inspected at local Michelin dealer, Michelin was very nice to replace all 4 with a 65% rebate and also paid for road hazard warranty that I paid for last year. I am still having to pay about $600 out the door which sucks as these are supposed to last for 50k miles at least.

I don't have a choice but to replace with another 4 LTX's but I will be keeping a close eye on tread wear.

Tires are nice and ride good but wear was extremely dissappointing.


Good to know. I got these tires installed last year and thought the wear "might" be a bit quick. Good thing is I hung on to my receipt in case I needed it.
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Old Sep 13, 2017 | 06:09 PM
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Are there any videos online showing how we will die a tragic death buy mixing tire tread patterns? Just by them in pairs if you're paranoid and place them on the same axle.

Imagine how you will die using a compact spare tire for a couple of days until the tire you ordered arrives.

note: If you die a tragic death by following my above statement I'm am not liable.
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Old Sep 14, 2017 | 01:36 PM
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Originally Posted by fabbrisd1
You'll love the Mich's - I would start at 38psi all around - drive 2 weeks - then go up 2psi and see how that feels for 2 weeks as compared to 38 - in a few weeks you will have it dialed in for how you want to "feel".

Keep the beat !
I'll be changing the tires soon on my GL and I was curious to know where did the 38psi recommendation came from. Your personal experience with these? The reason I ask is cecause my psi sticker says 32 for the front and 40 for the back at max load +3 PSI if driving 100MPH or over.

Has anyone else driven with 38PSI and above and what is the opinion out there
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Old Sep 14, 2017 | 05:02 PM
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My sticker on my GL reads 39/47 cold. Are you guys on the 19's or 20's?

Originally Posted by MBQureshi
I'll be changing the tires soon on my GL and I was curious to know where did the 38psi recommendation came from. Your personal experience with these? The reason I ask is cecause my psi sticker says 32 for the front and 40 for the back at max load +3 PSI if driving 100MPH or over.

Has anyone else driven with 38PSI and above and what is the opinion out there
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Old Sep 14, 2017 | 08:49 PM
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Mine has 20 inch wheels
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Old Sep 15, 2017 | 02:07 AM
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Tire Pressure

On my 2017 GLS550, have 295/40 21" tires and I run 42 rears and 38 in the front tires. Gives smooth ride and no rounding of outer edges. Rotate every 7,500 miles. They are Continental UHP's with M&S rating.

Had 275/50 20 inch tires on my 2013 GL450 and ran 38psi in front and rears. Got 43,000 miles before they hit 2/32". They were Pirelli Verde tires.
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Old Sep 15, 2017 | 10:13 AM
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I hate my Pirellis too but not that much. Come back to give a review of the Michelins .

Originally Posted by luke1834
Thanks to everyone for the info.

After cold calling several tire shops in the area and talking to another MB service tech (that's 3 now for those counting along at home) there is about as much consensus among them as in the comments above.

The MB techs (1, 2, 3) recommended:
1) Replace the single tire with a new Pirelli Scorpion and then do all 4 when the remaining three are more worn. Using different brand/style tire could cause issues with the AWD system due to wheel speed sensor data variation outside the prescribed limits.

2) Replace the two most worn tires with whatever brand I want, so long as they meet MB specs, and then go with the same brand/model when replacing the remaining Pirelli's when they are more worn. No issue using the same size tire from different manufacturer, just be sure the tires on each axle match.

3) Thou shalt never mix tire brands on an AWD vehicle. With the wear I have currently, he commented that even replacing the one tire would result in an unacceptable size imbalance on the axle with the new tire. He recommended replacing all 4 tires (with Michelin, Continental, Pirelli, etc.) due to the risk of excessive long term wear and tear on the AWD system.

So...after all that, I think four new tires is the way to go. No, I'm not happy about spending $1k+ when I have three tires with plenty of tread life remaining, but at this point the lack of consensus and desire to move away from Pirelli makes the choice less difficult. Hopefully the LTX's don't disappoint!
Reply
Old Sep 16, 2017 | 07:41 AM
  #22  
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on GLC300 #2, a 2022 CPO purchased b/c I really dislike the X254's UI (GL350 before those)
Originally Posted by Armanidog
Got 43,000 miles before they hit 2/32". They were Pirelli Verde tires.
Danger - 2/32 is foolish goal, that's just a government standard for wear bars, an idiot light for tires, not a good practice recommendation
. Not enough void depth remaining at even 4/32" for safety, both yours and those around your nearly three ton truck.
Apparently you should see this:

www.tirerack.com/videos/index.jsp?video


https://blog.tirerack.com/blog/lette...enny-might-not

As to pressure, the placards on door jamb and inside the fuel cover disagree. Thanks, MB. Lots written here about it. I run 35 all around on pirelli, YMMV.

Last edited by mustbebenz; Sep 17, 2017 at 08:55 PM.
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Old Sep 17, 2017 | 06:29 AM
  #23  
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2017 GLE350 4Matic
Michelin Premier LTX

I have 22k miles on a set of new Michelin Premier LTX tires, I run them at 37 psi cold, 80% highway use and I have 6/32" even tread on all 4 wheels as of yesterday's rotation. I drive hard and fast through curves w/no rounding, great quiet tires.
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Old Oct 10, 2017 | 12:51 PM
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'14 GL550 , '79 911SC
Tire wear - anyone experiencing heavy wear with Conti's?

I see in posts in this thread comments where some are getting 30K plus out of their tires, and with even wear - I have a '14 GL550 bought used with 14k on the car - Conti's had been subbed for Pirelli's at some point by the PO, maybe because of reported vibrations with Pirelli's. Anyway, by 29K I had to replace all 4 Conti CrossContact UHP's due heavy inside wear on all tires (replaced with same tires). Wheel alignment done by the dealer at that time - Oct '15. Now at 56K two yrs later, and tires again showing heavy inside wear (all four). Yes, they get rotated, and to boot I swap in winter tire/wheel set-up early Dec --> March each year. So in reality I probably have put only about 18K on the Conti's (given usage of winter tires). As well, the car had another alignment done again this past June (as basically insisted upon by the dealer). Anyone experiencing this? Does it seem unusual? Am I getting hosed by crappy dealer alignments? Tires are 295/40/21's. TIA
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Old Oct 13, 2017 | 01:17 AM
  #25  
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Tire Question

On my 2013 GL450 had Pirelli"s 275X50R20" and got 40K out of them with 80% hughway driving in So. CA. Ran 38psi all around and rotated every 7500 miles.
Now have 2017 GLS550 with 295X40R21" Conti UHP and have used 4/32 in 9,000 miles. Based on this wear expect to get about 15K from them. They are wearing even and run 38psi in the fronts and 42psi in the rears. Looks like will get about same mileage as you indicated.
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