tire-chains on 4matic?

with 4matic, it is not recommended to have staggered tire setting, which one of the reasons is it may cause the 4matic to be not "synchronized" hence triggering the ESP (false-alarm for slip)

does that mean we cannot put chain only on the rear two wheels?

(1) any input on how you guys handle the icy road? Another set of studded tires or chain all 4 wheels?
(2) hows the 19inch tires handle in the snow/ice?

Thanks in advance.

 

I found last year when it snowed that the traction with the normal tyres was actually very good but if you live in an area where you are likely to get a lot of snow and ice just get a set of good winter tyres. You will be suprised at how much difference they will make.

 

This is covered in the owners manual. Chains on rear tires only. The wheel/tire size combo restrictions are specific to the chassis and is also in the manual.

 

Do not think you will need chains. Nothing is good on ice, even chains but I have had mine in deep snow and it just motored thru.Perhaps if you reside in the Arctic you may wish to consider them but thats about the only place

 

I purchased a set of Rudd diamond pattern chains for my ML550.

However, the car is very good on deep snow and/or ice at Tahoe. (We currently have about 8 feet of snow at our house there)

I got chains mainly because the Cal. Highway patrol can force you to put on chains under certain circumstances even on a 4 wheel drive car. Probably will never use the chains unless forced.

Mark