Discussion
On investigating a Clunking noise that appears on full lock whilst manoeuvring, my dealer put it down to tyre skip.
This is really just noticed first thing in the morning at low ambient temperatures.
A quick look on the net shows that some of the sportier Mercs also have this.
Anybody else with this issue?
This is really just noticed first thing in the morning at low ambient temperatures.
A quick look on the net shows that some of the sportier Mercs also have this.
Anybody else with this issue?
Mercedes say:
We're sorry to hear that a small number of customers have experienced an issue with certain models, generally at cold ambient temperatures while manoeuvring at low speed with steering lock applied. The experience is of the front tyres apparently 'skipping'. This is a comfort issue, and does not affect the safety or performance of the vehicle.
This characteristic comes from flexibility within the tyre sidewall, the grip between the front tyres and the type of road surface being driven over. It is something which can be felt only at very low speeds, and when a certain percentage of wheel lock is engaged for turning. This is demonstratively more evident in colder temperatures due to the changes in the tyre rubber elasticity.
Winter tyres and all-season tyres on 18- or 19-inch wheels improve this characteristic and we would always recommend their use in temperatures which fall below approximately +7 degrees Celsius. The use of 18-inch wheels with summer tyres also improves the issue.
We're sorry to hear that a small number of customers have experienced an issue with certain models, generally at cold ambient temperatures while manoeuvring at low speed with steering lock applied. The experience is of the front tyres apparently 'skipping'. This is a comfort issue, and does not affect the safety or performance of the vehicle.
This characteristic comes from flexibility within the tyre sidewall, the grip between the front tyres and the type of road surface being driven over. It is something which can be felt only at very low speeds, and when a certain percentage of wheel lock is engaged for turning. This is demonstratively more evident in colder temperatures due to the changes in the tyre rubber elasticity.
Winter tyres and all-season tyres on 18- or 19-inch wheels improve this characteristic and we would always recommend their use in temperatures which fall below approximately +7 degrees Celsius. The use of 18-inch wheels with summer tyres also improves the issue.
Certainly a comprehensive 'don't blame us', political explanation by Mercedes.
My own Mercedes does this on near full lock, in fact very easily if the road surface is at all loose. It is effectively slow speed understeer, and no problem if driven sensibly. Some large Mercedes cars have an unexpectedly small turning circle, which can sometimes be useful, but that in itself increases the liklyhood of slow speed slipping.
James, happens as described in my DBS. Cold OAT, full lock in reverse and clunk. Hell of a noise and I feel it through the steering wheel. Got Mike at BR to check all front end components, all fine so I can only put it down to this phenomena.
Edited by Bincenzo on Thursday 16th February 11:04
Gassing Station | Aston Martin | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff