tommyr

We have a 2004 E320 4-matic wagon with the sport package; it has 245/45-17 tires. We've been really unhappy, as they are prone to sidewall damage and wear poorly.

Can we change to a narrower tire with a 16" rim? I'm thinking it would be a more comfortable ride, handle better in snow, and be less prone to tire/rim damage. Thoughts, advice?

my06clk

The smaller the rim the bigger the tire, the more side wall, the more prone to sidewall damage.
I dont know what kind of sidewall damage you are talking about, but you may need to drive more carefully. Poor wear oftentimes is not the tire, but the alignment, and tire pressures. YOu can als damage th sidewall of a tire if you run with too low tire pressures.

Luke@tirerack

yes you can go down in wheel size to a 16" wheel which would allow for an extras 1/2" of sidewall. That additional sidewall height would give you more protection from impact damage caused by pot holes and the like .... run a 225/55-16 tire size

tommyr

I know tirerack sells the tires, but I do not see a 16" rim for sale. If not from tirerack, any other advice (or specificiation)?

Luke@tirerack

you can do 1 of two things ....

#1.) call me
#2.) wait until after 10-1-07 and look for winter wheels on our site which will show you a selection of 16" choices