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Harsh mellow

I write to beg your help and advice on the tyre noise and harshness problem with my otherwise perfect Mercedes C320 CDI estate. The tranquillity in this car is utterly ruined by this idiotic tyre fit, and I am anxious to change from the standard and mandatory 225/45R17 to a 16inch rim with a 55-profile tyre, either of 225, 215, or 205 width. MB is unhelpful on the subject, and insists that the standard fit is “essential, to handle all that torque”. The lie to this is that both the E class and the S class 320 CDI come as standard with the fatter tyres. Are you aware of any successful resolutions to this problem, and do you foresee problems with insurers?

Asked on 11 April 2009 by

Answered by Honest John
While I agree with your sentiments I don't have a tried and tested cure. You can get a W211 E320CDI on 16” wheels. I’ve driven and enjoyed one immensely round the handling tracks at MB World, Brooklands. However, if you experiment with 16s, yes, you would have to inform your insurer. The dealer argument simply doesn't hold up. My Focus ECOnetic is on 195/65 R15s and handles better than a Focus on 16 or 17" low profiles.
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