Mercedes-Benz 2009 SLK-Class Automobile User Manual


 
Tires and wheels
249
Production options weight
The combined weight of those installed reg-
ular production options weighing over 5 lbs
(2.3 kilograms) in excess of those standard
items which they replace, not previously con-
sidered in curb weight or accessory weight,
including heavy duty brakes, ride levelers,
roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special
trim.
PSI (Pounds per square inch)
A standard unit of measure for air pressure.
Recommended tire inflation pressure
The recommended tire inflation pressure for
normal driving conditions is listed on the Tire
and Loading Information placard located on
the driver’s door B-pillar and provides best
handling, tread life and riding comfort. If so
equipped, supplemental information pertain-
ing to special driving situations can be found
on the tire inflation pressure label on the
inside of the fuel filler flap.
Rim
A metal support for a tire or a tire and tube
assembly upon which the tire beads are
seated.
Sidewall
The portion of a tire between the tread and
the bead.
TIN (Tire Identification Number)
Unique identifier which facilitates efforts by
tire manufacturers to notify purchasers in
recall situations or other safety matters con-
cerning tires and gives purchasers the means
to easily identify such tires. The TIN is com-
prised of “Manufacturer’s identification
mark”, “Tire size”, “Tire type code” and “Date
of manufacture”.
Tire load rating
Numerical code associated with the maxi-
mum load a tire can support.
Tire ply composition and material used
This indicates the number of plies or the num-
ber of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire
tread and sidewall. Tire manufacturers also
must indicate the ply materials in the tire and
sidewall, which include steel, nylon, poly-
ester, and others.
Tire speed rating
Part of tire designation; indicates the speed
range for which a tire is approved.
Total load limit
Rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kilo-
grams (150 lb) times the vehicle’s designated
seating capacity.
Traction
Force exerted by the vehicle on the road via
the tires. The amount of grip provided.
Tread
The portion of a tire that comes into contact
with the road.
Treadwear indicators
Narrow bands, sometimes called “wear bars”
that show across the tread of a tire when only
1
/
16
in (1.6 mm) of tread remains.
Operation