SL/R230: Wheels and Snow Tires for '03 SL500 Sport
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Joined: Feb 2007
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Wheels and Snow Tires for '03 SL500 Sport
I recently purchased an '03 SL500 with Sport package. I am looking to put snow tires on the car for minimal occasional winter use and would prefer to go to a higher profile narrower tire on 17" wheels instead of putting very wide 18" snows on the existing wheels. I understand the Sport package includes larger brake calipers and I am told the 17" MB wheels on the base '03 SL500 will not work because of the larger brakes. Is this true? The only 17" wheels I have been told by my MB dealer that will fit cost over $450 each. Any other options? Thanks.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 911
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From: Wichita
2005 SL600, 2011 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite
I think any option that involves new wheels will be similarly expensive. What is your rationale for not putting snow tires on your existing wheels? Also, have you considered all-season tires? I am thinking of going with them when my original sport tires wear out.
It might pay to ask this question in "The Tire Rack's Wheels, Tires, Suspension & Brakes Forum" down below.
It might pay to ask this question in "The Tire Rack's Wheels, Tires, Suspension & Brakes Forum" down below.
Member
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 129
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From: State College, pennsylvania
2007 CLS550 (White w/black interior);2008 smart CABRIO
Snow Tires For 2003 SL 500
I recently purchased an '03 SL500 with Sport package. I am looking to put snow tires on the car for minimal occasional winter use and would prefer to go to a higher profile narrower tire on 17" wheels instead of putting very wide 18" snows on the existing wheels. I understand the Sport package includes larger brake calipers and I am told the 17" MB wheels on the base '03 SL500 will not work because of the larger brakes. Is this true? The only 17" wheels I have been told by my MB dealer that will fit cost over $450 each. Any other options? Thanks.
I've had this SL for 5 winter seasons now, living in the North Central Pennsylvania Allegheny Mountain area (State College, PA)- and cannout use it in Winter unless it has 4 snow tires. I have an extra set of 4 Wheels - with Pirelli 240 SnowSport 255/40/R18 95 on from mid-Nov thru mid-April each year, and they work fine. Try TireRack for tires like this.
GIFF ALBRIGHT, State College, PA
