Operation; Wheels And Tyres - Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Operating Instructions Manual

Operation

272
Useful information
These Operating Instructions describe all mod-
els as well as standard and optional equipment
of your vehicle that were available at the time of
going to print. Country-specific variations are
possible. Note that your vehicle may not be fit-
ted with all of the described functions. This also
applies to safety-relevant systems and func-
tions.
Read the information on qualified specialist
Y
workshops: ( page 27).
Important safety notes
G
Warning
A flat tyre severely impairs the driving, steer-
ing and braking characteristics of the vehicle.
There is a risk of an accident.
Do not drive with a flat tyre. Immediately
replace the flat tyre with your spare wheel, or
consult a qualified specialist workshop.
G
WARNING
If wheels and tyres of the wrong size are used,
the wheel brakes or suspension components
may be damaged. There is a risk of an acci-
dent.
Always replace wheels and tyres with those
that fulfil the specifications of the original
part.
When replacing wheels, make sure to fit the
correct:
designation
R
type
R
When replacing tyres, make sure to fit the
correct:
designation
R
manufacturer
R
type
R
Accessories that are not approved for your vehi-
cle by Mercedes-Benz or are not being used cor-
rectly can impair operating safety.
Before purchasing and using non-approved
accessories, visit a qualified specialist work-
shop and enquire about:
suitability
R
legal stipulations
R
factory recommendations
R
Information on tyre and wheel dimensions and
types as well as the recommended tyre pres-
sures for your vehicle can be found in the "Tyre
Y
pressure" section ( page 279).
Modifications to the brake system or wheels are
not permitted. The use of spacers or brake dust
shields is not permitted. This invalidates the
general operating permit for the vehicle.
i Further information on wheels and tyres can
be obtained at any qualified specialist work-
shop.
Operation
Information for a journey
Check the tyre pressures when the vehicle is
heavily laden and, if necessary, adjust
Y
( page 275).
While driving, pay attention to vibrations, noises
and unusual handling characteristics, e.g. pull-
ing to one side. This may indicate that the
wheels or tyres are damaged. If you suspect that
a tyre is defective, reduce your speed immedi-
ately. Stop the vehicle as soon as possible to
check the wheels and tyres for damage. Hidden
tyre damage could also be causing the unusual
handling characteristics. If you find no signs of
damage, have the tyres and wheels checked at a
qualified specialist workshop.
When parking your vehicle, make sure that the
tyres do not get deformed by the kerb or other
obstacles. If it is necessary to drive over kerbs,
speed humps or similar elevations, try to do so
slowly and not at a sharp angle. Otherwise, the
tyres, particularly the sidewalls, may be dam-
aged.
Regular wheel and tyre checks
G
WARNING
Damaged tyres can cause tyre inflation pres-
sure loss. As a result, you could lose control of
your vehicle. There is a risk of accident.