spilok

Just bought a PERFECT 2003 500SL with 8000 miles on it (it was kept in a thermostatically-controlled garage...hardly driven) a few weeks back, and I'm really enjoying it. Was actually able to get a Comprehensive Warranty from my Benz Dealer for 5 years, 36,000 miles for $1670.00. So I'm very pleased. I've had 3 NEW Benzes over the years, but I couldn't pass this one up for less than half its sticker price. Has the AMG package on it, Silver, and 18" rims. The front tires are 255/40 ZR18, and the rear 285/35 ZR18...Pirelli PZeros.
My question is this: the recommended pressures are 30 in front and 33 in rear. Is this what most of you follow, or do you find that different pressures are a better comprimise for comfort, wear, and performance? I want to start off right with this car.

Stan

jrtireman

Yes you should go by recommended pressure. That pressure for most cars is configured by the weight of the vehicle and also ride comfort. If you have tire pressure monitoring system or tpms on your car than if you put to much or not enough air in your tires than you will see a warning on you dash. Or at least on my corvette it dose tell if there is too much air in a tire. Havent tried it in my sl. Also I dont know where you live but if it gets cold where you live the pressure in your tires can drop enough to make your warning light come on also. If it makes it easier on you you could run 32 psi all the way around and should be fine. Hope this helps.

bltserv

Look at the Door Jam or the Fuel Filler Cover. I would stick with those numbers they have listed. One thing. Those tires you have are 5 Years old.
Be Careful. Tires wear out from age and oxidation. I would not feel confident
with them that old at high speed. 80+

Also I found the Perelli`s wear and ride not as good as the Michellin PS on my SL.

Enjoy your new ride

spilok

Thanks for the input. I've never been a fan of the PZeros, but the person who owned this car did drive it occasionally but only locally. Although the tires are 5 years old, remember he kept this car not in a heated garage, but a temperature controlled garage. This car is really "cherry", and I had it totally checked out at my Mercedes dealer yesterday in order to qualify for the warranty...it passed with flying colors, and there was nothing they could find that was a problem.
So...when I do change tires...which ones are the best for this car, considering all the qualities you desire in a tire?
Stan

jrtireman

Michelin would be my prefered tire of choice. Smooth ride and always balances and stays balanced.

bltserv

Stan

Again congrats on buying your R230.
When you do change rubber. Go Michelin Pilot Sport.
They are IMHO the best tire when you consider ride & performance.
Mine are just needing replacement after almost 20K miles on my SL.
My dealer will match the price at Costco and the Local Tire dealers so I
feel better letting them do the install. Get the Z rated.

IngenereAMG

I run PS2's at 38F/39R for tire pressures. Whatever tires you get, make sure you get ones that are rated for extra load, as our cars are pretty portly!

.......Especially if you remove the speed limiter!

Trimmer2

I just put on a set of Bridgestone RE050 Pole Positions and I have to say, they are the best I've had on the car yet. Previous was the PS's which I couldn't hardly hear my self think and they got VERY hard after about 5k.

I keep my pressure at 34psi all they way around.