SLK/R170: 2002 SLK230 non-sport - tire question
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Member
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 122
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From: So California
‘22 S500
2002 SLK230 non-sport - tire question
Hi - I'm new to this forum. Purchased a 2002 SLK230, specifically with the non-sport standard as I was concerned about the ride on frequent long drives. The vehicle delivered with Dunlop V-rated tires. Wondering how R rated or H rated tires would do in terms of ride, handling, and longeviety? Is there a program where I could trade these tires for an R rated Dunlop? As a footnote, the car is perfect . . . not a rattle, no issues of any sort. Thanks in advance for any help. Peter
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 569
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From: Chandler, Arizona - USA
'02 SLK32 AMG
Sorry, I don't know the answer to your question, but generally, longer tread life is a trade-off with increased road noise and poorer dry traction. Ride comfort is probably more dependent on the brand/model than the speed rating. There's a wheel/tire forum at MBWorld, you might get better info there.
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Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 42
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From: Houston, Texas
ML55 AMG
There might be H rated tires that'll fit. H-rated tires of that size typically last 30-35,000 miles in that weight car. V-rated usually last 25-30. Z-rated are lucky to get 20,000.
BUT I always recommend remaining with the stock rating or better for liability reasons. A. The car will exceed the speed capabilities of H rated tires, whether you do or not. B. Handling and braking of a H vs V rated tire will be inferior usually. C. It is possible that someday you will be involved in an accident.
Any lawyer who can't convince a jury of normal jury IQ (the IQ of the dumbest member divided by the number in the jury) that by putting in those inferior tires THAT WEREN'T UP TO OEM SPECIFICATIONS you contributed to the accident should give up law and find honest work.
In other words, it's false economy. You just spent over $40,000 for a car, and you're worrying about pocket change. Next you'll be putting in 87 octane off brand gas and generic oil. Well, at least the oil is covered by MB for 4/50.
BUT I always recommend remaining with the stock rating or better for liability reasons. A. The car will exceed the speed capabilities of H rated tires, whether you do or not. B. Handling and braking of a H vs V rated tire will be inferior usually. C. It is possible that someday you will be involved in an accident.
Any lawyer who can't convince a jury of normal jury IQ (the IQ of the dumbest member divided by the number in the jury) that by putting in those inferior tires THAT WEREN'T UP TO OEM SPECIFICATIONS you contributed to the accident should give up law and find honest work.
In other words, it's false economy. You just spent over $40,000 for a car, and you're worrying about pocket change. Next you'll be putting in 87 octane off brand gas and generic oil. Well, at least the oil is covered by MB for 4/50.
Newbie
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 4
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Your factory Dunlops will last you about 30k
My 98 SLK 230 ran on Dunlop 2000E tires for 30,000 miles, and I was driving it like the sports car it is. If you want to increase your gas mileage on long trips (and the highway is smooth) put an extra 4 psi into the tires.
Even boosting the psi on long trips, your tires will wear out on the outside edges first, since you cannot rotate them.
rdniii
98 Black SLK 230
Even boosting the psi on long trips, your tires will wear out on the outside edges first, since you cannot rotate them.
rdniii
98 Black SLK 230
