2011 MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class Limit

Trailer load/noseweight
The trailer load/noseweight affects the gross
weight of the vehicle. If a trailer is attached,
the trailer load/noseweight is included in the
load along with occupants and luggage. The
trailer load/noseweight is usually
approximately 10% of the gross weight of the
trailer and its cargo.
Your Mercedes-Benz is designed for
transporting persons and their luggage.
Mercedes-Benz does not recommend towing
a trailer with your vehicle.
Maximum tire load
GWarning
Do not overload the tires by exceeding the
specified load limit as indicated on the Tire
and Loading Information placard on the
driver's door B-pillar. Overloading the tires
can overheat them, possibly causing a
blowout. Overloading the tires can also result
in handling or steering problems, or brake
failure.
i The actual values for tires are specific to
each vehicle and may deviate from the
values in the illustration.
Maximum tire load : is the maximum
permitted weight for which the tire is
approved.
Further information on tire loads
( Y page 495).
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards
Overview of tire quality standards
The Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards
are U.S. government specifications. Their
purpose is to provide drivers with uniform
reliable information on tire performance data.
Tire manufacturers have to grade tires using
three performance factors: tread wear :,
tire traction ; and heat resistance =. All
tires sold in North America are provided with
the corresponding quality class mark on the
sidewall of the tire, even though these
regulations do not apply to Canada.
i The actual values for tires are specific to
each vehicle and may deviate from the
values in the illustration.
Where applicable, the tire grading
information can be found on the tire sidewall
between the tread shoulder and maximum
tire width.
For example:
Tread wearTractionTemperature200AAA
All passenger car tires must conform to the
statutory safety requirements in addition to
these grades.
494Uniform Tire Quality Grading StandardsTires and wheels

ratio is calculated by dividing the tire width by
the tire height.
Tire code: tire code = specifies the tire type.
"R" represents radial tires. "D" represents
diagonal tires, "B" represents diagonal radial
tires.
Optionally, tires with a maximum speed of
over 149 mph (240 km/h) may have "ZR" in
the size description depending on the
manufacturer (e.g. 245/40 ZR 18).
Rim diameter: rim diameter ? is the
diameter of the bead seat, not the diameter
of the rim flange. The rim diameter is
specified in inches (in).
Load bearing index: load bearing index A
is a numerical code which specifies the
maximum load-bearing capacity of a tire.GWarning
The tire load rating must always be at least
half of the GAWR of your vehicle. Otherwise,
sudden tire failure may be the result which
could cause an accident and/or serious injury
to you or others.
Always replace rims and tires with rims and
tires having the same specifications
(designation, manufacturer and type) as
shown on the original part.
GWarning
Do not overload the tires by exceeding the
specified load limit as indicated on the Tire
and Loading Information placard on the
driver's door B-pillar. Overloading the tires
can overheat them, possibly causing a
blowout. Overloading the tires can also result
in handling or steering problems, or brake
failure.
Example:
The load bearing index 91 is equivalent to a
maximum load of 1356 lbs (615 kg) that the
tire can carry. For further information on the
maximum tire load in kilograms and pounds,
see ( Y page 494).
For further information on the load bearing
index, see load index ( Y page 498).
Speed index: speed index B specifies the
approved maximum speed of the tire.GWarning
Even when permitted by law, never operate a
vehicle at speeds greater than the maximum
speed rating of the tires.
Exceeding the maximum speed for which tires
are rated can lead to sudden tire failure,
causing loss of vehicle control and possibly
resulting in an accident and/or serious
personal injury and possible death, for you
and for others.
Regardless of the speed index always observe
the speed limits. Drive carefully and adapt
your driving style to the traffic conditions.
Summer tiresIndexSpeed ratingQup to 100 mph (160 km/h)Rup to 106 mph (170 km/h)Sup to 112 mph (180 km/h)Tup to 118 mph (190 km/h)Hup to 130 mph (210 km/h)Vup to 149 mph (240 km/h)Wup to 168 mph (270 km/h)Yup to 186 mph (300 km/h)ZR...Yup to 186 mph (300 km/h)ZR...(..Y)above 186 mph (300 km/h)ZRabove 149 mph (240 km/h)
R Optionally, tires with a maximum speed of
over 149 mph (240 km/h) may have "ZR"
in the size description depending on the
manufacturer (e.g. 245/40 ZR 18).
Tire labeling497Tires and wheelsZ

The service specifications consists of load
bearing index A and speed index B.
R If the size description of your tire includes
"ZR" and there are no service
specifications, ask the tire manufacturer in
order to find out the maximum speed.
If a service specification is available, the
maximum speed is limited according to the
speed index in the service specification.
Example: 245/40 ZR18 97 Y. In this
example, "97 Y" is the service specification.
The letter "Y" represents the speed index
and the maximum speed of the tire is
limited to 186 mph (300 km/h).
R Every tire that has a maximum speed above
186 mph (300 km/h) must have "ZR" in the
size description and the service
specification must be given in brackets.
Example: 275/40 ZR 18 (99 Y). The speed
index "(Y)" shows that the maximum speed
of the tire is above 186 mph (300 km/h).
Ask the tire manufacturer to find out the
maximum speed.All-weather tires and winter tiresIndexSpeed ratingQ M+S 35up to 100 mph (160 km/h)T M+S35up to 118 mph (190 km/h)H M+S 35up to 130 mph (210 km/h)V M+S35up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
i
Not all tires that have the M+S
identification offer the driving
characteristics of winter tires. Winter tires
have, in addition to the M+S identification,
the i snow flake symbol on the tire
sidewall. Tires with this identification fulfill
the requirements of the Rubber
Manufacturers Association (RMA) and the
Rubber Association of Canada (RAC)
regarding the tire traction on snow and
have been especially developed for driving
on snow.
An electronic speed limiter prevents your
vehicle from exceeding the following speeds:
R 130 mph(210 km/h):
- All vehicles (except AMG vehicles)
R 155 mph(250 km/h):
- S 63 AMG
- S 65 AMG
R 186 mph(300 km/h):
- S 63 AMG (Performance Package)
- S 63 AMG with raised maximum speed
- S 65 AMG with raised maximum speed
The speed index of tires installed at the
factory may be higher than the maximum
speed that the electronic speed limiter
permits.
Make sure that your tires have the required
speed index as specified in the "Tires" section
( Y page 503) for your vehicle, e.g. when
buying new tires.
More information on reading the tire data can
be obtained at any qualified specialist
workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes-
Benz Center.
Load index
i Tire data is vehicle-specific and may
deviate from the data in the example.
35 or M+S i for winter tires.498Tire labelingTires and wheels

Tire bead
The tire bead ensures that the tire sits
securely on the wheel. There are several steel
wires in the bead to prevent the tire from
coming loose from the wheel rim.
Sidewall
The part of the tire between the tread and the
tire bead.
Weight of optional extras
The combined weight of those optional extras
that weigh more than the replaced standard
part and more than 2.3 kilograms (5 lbs).
These optional extras, such as high-
performance brakes, level control, a roof rack
or a high-performance battery, are not
included in the unladen weight and the weight
of the accessories.
TIN (Tire Identification Number)
A unique identification number which can be
used by a tire manufacturer to identify tires,
for example for a product recall, and thus
identify the purchasers. The TIN is made up
of the manufacturer's identity code, tire size,
tire type code and the manufacturing date.
Load bearing index
The load bearing index (also load index) is a
code that contains the maximum load bearing
capacity of a tire.
Traction
Traction is the result of friction between the
tires and the road surface.
Wear indicator
This is indicated by narrow bars (tread wear
bars) that are distributed over the tire tread.
If the tire tread is level with the bars, the wear
limit of 1
/ 16 in (1.6 mm) has been reached.
Distribution of the vehicle occupants
This is the distribution of vehicle occupants
over designated seat positions in a vehicle.
Maximum permissible payload
weight
Nominal load and luggage load plus
68 kilograms (150 lb) multiplied by the
number of seats in the vehicle.
Changing a wheel
Flat tire
The "Breakdown assistance" section
( Y page 463) contains information and notes
on how to deal with a flat tire. It also provides
instructions on changing a wheel or installing
the spare wheel or emergency spare wheel.
Interchanging the wheels
GWarning
Rotate front and rear wheels only if the tires
are of the same dimension.
If your vehicle is equipped with mixed-size
tires (different tire dimensions front vs. rear),
tire rotation is not possible.
GWarning!
Have the tightening torque checked after
changing a wheel. The wheels could come
loose if they are not tightened to a torque of
110 lb-ft (150 Nm).
Only use genuine Mercedes-Benz wheel bolts
specified for your vehicle’s rims.
502Changing a wheelTires and wheels

The wear patterns on the front and rear tires
differ, depending on the operating conditions.
Rotate the wheels before a clear wear pattern
has formed on the tires. Front tires typically
wear more on the shoulders and the rear tires
in the center.
If your vehicle's tire configuration allows, you
can rotate the wheels according to the
intervals in the tire manufacturer's warranty
book in your vehicle documents. If no
warranty book is available, the tires should be
rotated every 3000 to 6000 miles
(5000 to 10000 km), or earlier if tire wear
requires. Do not change the direction of
wheel rotation.
Clean the contact surfaces of the wheel and
the brake disc thoroughly every time a wheel
is interchanged. Check the tire pressures.
Information on changing a wheel and fitting
the spare wheel ( Y page 463).
! On vehicles installed with a tire pressure
monitor, electronic components are
located in the wheel.
Tire-mounting tools should not be applied
in the area of the valve, as this could
damage the electronic components.
Always have the tires changed at a qualified
specialist workshop, e.g. an authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
Direction of rotation
Tires with a specified direction of rotation
have additional benefits, e.g. if there is a risk
of hydroplaning. You will only gain these
benefits if the correct direction of rotation is
observed.
An arrow on the sidewall of the tire indicates
its correct direction of rotation.
You may install an emergency spare wheel/
spare wheel against the direction of rotation.
Observe the time restriction on use as well as
the speed limitation specified on the
emergency spare wheel/spare wheel.
Storing wheels
Store wheels that are not being used in a cool,
dry and preferably dark place. Protect the
tires from contact with oil, grease and fuel.
Cleaning the wheels
GWarning
Do not use power washers with circular jet
nozzles (concentrated-power jets) to clean
your vehicle, especially for cleaning tires. You
could otherwise damage the tires and cause
an accident.
Wheel/tire combinations
Points to remember
GWarning
Observe the "Important safety notes"
( Y page 480).
! For safety reasons, Mercedes-Benz
recommends that you only use tires,
wheels and accessories which have been
approved by Mercedes-Benz specifically
for your vehicle.
These tires have been specially adapted for
use with the control systems, such as ABS
or ESP ®
, and are marked as follows:
R MO = Mercedes-Benz Original
R MOE = Mercedes-Benz Original Extended
(tires with run-flat characteristics)
R MO1 = Mercedes-Benz Original (only
certain AMG tires)
Mercedes-Benz Original Extended tires
may only be used on wheels that have been
specifically approved by Mercedes-Benz.
Only use tires, wheels or accessories
tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz.
Certain characteristics, e.g. handling,
vehicle noise emissions or fuel
consumption, may otherwise be adversely
affected. In addition, when driving with a
Wheel/tire combinations503Tires and wheelsZ

Vehicle equipment
i This manual describes all the standard
and optional equipment of your vehicle
which was available at the time of
purchase. Country-specific differences are
possible. Bear in mind that your vehicle
may not feature all functions described
here. This also refers to safety-related
systems and functions.
Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts
All Mercedes-Benz Centers maintain a supply
of genuine Mercedes-Benz parts for
necessary service and repair work. In
addition, strategically located parts delivery
centers provide for quick and reliable parts
service.
More than 300,000 different genuine
Mercedes-Benz parts are available for
Mercedes-Benz models.
Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts are subjected
to stringent quality inspections. Every part
has been specifically developed,
manufactured or selected for and adapted to
Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Only genuine Mercedes-Benz parts should
therefore be used.
! The use of non-approved parts could
impair the vehicle's safety. For this reason,
Mercedes-Benz recommends genuine
Mercedes-Benz parts and approved
conversion parts and accessories for your
vehicle model.
HEnvironmental note
Daimler AG also supplies reconditioned major
assemblies and parts which are of the same
quality as new parts. They are covered by the
same Limited Warranty entitlements as new
parts.
Always specify the vehicle identification
number and engine number when ordering
genuine Mercedes-Benz parts. You will find
these numbers on your vehicle's
identification plates, for example
( Y page 509).
Warranty
Your vehicle is covered under the terms of the
warranties printed in the Service and
Warranty Information booklet.
Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will
exchange or repair any defective parts
originally installed in the vehicle in
accordance with the terms of the following
warranties:
R New Vehicle Limited Warranty
R Emission System Warranty
R Emission Performance Warranty
R California, Connecticut, Maine,
Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island and Vermont Emission
Control Systems Warranty
R State Warranty Enforcement Laws (Lemon
Laws)
Replacement parts and accessories are
subject to the Mercedes-Benz Replacement
Part and Accessory Warranties. You can
obtain these at any Mercedes-Benz Center.
i Should you lose your Service and
Warranty Information booklet, have an
authorized Mercedes-Benz Center arrange
for a replacement. It will be mailed to you.
508WarrantyTechnical data

RETBE
R IPA
R TBA
For MTBE, the concentration should not
exceed 15%.
The concentration of methanol in gasoline
including other additives must not exceed 3%.
Using mixtures of methanol and ethanol is not
permitted. Gasohol, a mixture of 10% ethanol
and 90% unleaded gasoline can be used.
All of these mix fuels must fulfill the fuel
requirements, e.g.:
R knock resistance
R boiling point
R vapor pressure
Additives in gasoline
One of the major problems in engine design
is the creation of carbon deposits during the
process of burning fuel. Mercedes-Benz
recommends that you use fuel brands that
have the additives which prevent the build up
of carbon deposits.
If you use fuels without these additives for a
longer period of time, there may be a build up
of carbon deposits, especially on the inlet
valves and in the combustion chamber.
This could lead to engine running problems,
e.g.:
R warm-up hesitation
R unstable idle
R knocking/pinging
R misfire
R power loss
In areas where carbon deposits may be
encountered due to lack of availability of
gasoline which contains these additives,
Mercedes-Benz recommends the use of
additives approved for use in Mercedes-Benz
vehicles.
Consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center
or visit http://www.mbusa.com (USA only)
to view a list of approved products. Observe
the instructions for use on the product label.
Do not mix other fuel additives with fuel. This
causes unnecessary costs and could damage
the engine.
! Do not refuel with low-grade fuel and do
not use fuel additives that are not tested
and approved for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Damage or malfunctions can result that are
not covered:
R by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty
R by an existing Limited Warranty
R by an extended Limited Warranty
Engine oil
Points to remember
The engine oils are matched to the
performance of Mercedes-Benz engines and
service intervals. For this reason, only use
engine oils and oil filters that are approved for
vehicles with a service system.
Contact an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center
or visit http://www.mbusa.com (USA only)
for a list of approved engine oils and oil filters.
! Never use engine oil or an oil filter of a
specification other than is necessary to
fulfill the prescribed service intervals. Do
not change the engine oil or oil filter in
order to achieve longer replacement
intervals than those prescribed. Otherwise,
you may cause damage to the engine or
exhaust gas aftertreatment; this is not
covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty.
Follow the instructions in the service
interval display regarding the oil change.
Otherwise, you may damage the engine and
the exhaust gas aftertreatment.
Mercedes-Benz recommends MOBIL OIL.
The table shows which engines oil have been
approved for your vehicle.
Service products and capacities513Technical dataZ

ModelEngine
modelMB
ApprovalS 550 43278229.5S 550 4MATIC 43278229.5S 600275229.5S 63 AMG157229.544S 65 AMG275229.544
i
MB Approval is stated on the containers.
Lubricant additives
! Do not mix any lubricant additives with
the engine oil. This could damage the
engine. Damage resulting from the use of
such lubricant additives in the engine oil is
not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited
Warranty.
Engine oil viscosity
Viscosity describes the flow characteristics
of a fluid. If an engine oil has a high viscosity,
this means that it is thick; a low viscosity
means that it is thin.
Using the table below, make sure that the SAE
classification (viscosity) is sufficient for the
temperatures at which the vehicle is
operated. The low temperature
characteristics of engine oils can deteriorate
significantly, e.g by aging, soot and fuel
deposits. It is therefore recommended that
you carry out oil changes regularly using an
approved engine oil with the appropriate SAE
classification.
Refrigerant of the air-conditioning
system
The air-conditioning system is filled with
R134a refrigerant and a special PAG
lubricant.
! Never use refrigerant R 12 (CFC) or
mineral lubricants. Otherwise, you could
damage the air-conditioning system.
Brake fluid
GWarning!
The brake fluid constantly absorbs moisture
from the air; this lowers its boiling point.
If the boiling point of the brake fluid is too low,
vapor pockets may form in the brake system
when the brakes are applied hard (e.g. when
driving downhill). This would impair braking
efficiency.
You should have the brake fluid renewed at
regular intervals. The brake fluid change
intervals can be found in the Service Booklet.
Only use brake fluid approved by Mercedes-
Benz. Information about approved brake
fluids can be obtained from any authorized
Mercedes-Benz Center.
43 BlueEFFICIENCY.
44 Restriction: only SAE 0W-40 engine oils may be used.514Service products and capacitiesTechnical data