I was changing the oil in my 04 and found the inside edge of the l/f tire had been rubbing the upper a arm, which cut through the steel belt. Not Good! The r/f was fine. The front tires are Nitto NT555 - 225/35/19's on TSW 5 spokes. Body height is the same on both sides, and it looks like the upper a arm is about 2" above the tires. The car handles fine, but I'm thinking it was either a serious pothole or there is a suspension problem. (A arm bushings, shocks, balljoints) I bought the car used and these are the tires that were on it.

BTW - the rear tires are Nitto 265/35/20's and, during replacement last year, I noticed they were rubbing on the inside shock tower. No wear to the tire though. The car bottoms out sometimes when hitting rough pavement, like bridge approaches and potholes. Any ideas?

 

Factory tire size is 18's/front and 19's/rear. You should have a label on door post, drivers side, with tire information and correct pressure.

 

I may have to go back to the stock size. It does look good with the 19/20's though. Maybe a little less backspacing on the wheels would do it. That is, if the suspension is ok.

 

old school, the stock 225/40-18's are 25" tall and your 225/35-19's are 25.2" tall. That should not cause any issues. There are lots of guys here using the 19/20 setup. If your too close to the bolt on the upper arm you could use spacers and move the wheels out to clear. Or you may just need new shocks.

If you have a shop you are comfortable with, have them double check it and ensure there is nothing bad in the suspension.

 

I think a 3/8" - 1/2" spacer should do it. Anyone know where to get them and the longer lugs?

 

Needswings sells them... I had to install 10mm spacers on the Aero to clear the C32 brake calipers...

 

I got 10mm spacers on ebay and they were great, price finish, and fit. The front dust seal on the bearings are larger and may interfere with standard mercedes style spacers.

My 245/40/18's on all four wheels touched the upper supports on the front.

Woody