SL/R231: Tire ratio question
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2022
Posts: 22
Likes: 1
sl 550
Tire ratio question
According to my local dealer, one of the wheels on my '13 SL 550 has a seal that can't be fixed. The wheels are chrome (which I personally hate), so rather than spending $1k or more for a wheel I don't really want, I started looked at used wheels. Most of the wheels I like are in the 20 to 21 inch range. I'm not overly concerned about the harshness of larger wheels, but I am concerned about tire ratio. I know the rear 19s use a 285/30/19. Could I use a 285/30/20 - or would I have to go down to 25? I notice that most people lower the suspension when they add larger wheels, does that mean that there would be room for a larger wheel with the same ratio?
Also, can anyone recommend a good place for spacers?
Also, can anyone recommend a good place for spacers?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 1,634
Likes: 521
From: Hagerstown MD
2015 SL400; 2019 X5M40i
A 285/30/20 will be slightly larger in diameter so your speedometer will be off a bit. Also, availability of tires will be limited. Personally, I wouldn't go up to a 20" wheel.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 1,634
Likes: 521
From: Hagerstown MD
2015 SL400; 2019 X5M40i
Since the tire/wheel combo will be slightly larger it is possible you may get some tire rub but there may be others on the forum who have gone with 20" wheels and a 30 series tire without rubbing. Hopefully others will chime in.
