Outside uneven tire wear
 

Hey guys,

I have a '91 300 E that I bought new tires for when I bought the car approximately two years ago with 186,000 miles on it. Now, the car has 207,000. miles. The tires, Dunlop H rated tires, were supposed to last up to 40,000-60,000 miles. The two front tires, which I had just rotated about 6 months ago, are now completely shot because of excessive wear on the outer edge of the top of the tires, and due to car related "mechanical problems," the tire warranty has been voided.. The tire shop told me the likely cause is negative camber. If this is true, what kinds of things cause that? What should I replace? The struts/shocks are replacement lifetime Bilsteins and they seem to be just fine. The tires don't seem to be standing awkwardkly (as in either leaning in or out). Any ideas? Thanks!

Hermes1

Need an alignment. Most likely your tires are turned slightly inward instead of straight ahead and you are getting the outside wear. Only has to be the tinniest bit off and that will happen over time. Make you have a MB shop do it.

Thanks 190Dude!
 

I'll certainly do that. I just couldn't figure it out considering the ride has always been so smooth and straight. Thanks again!

Hermes1

Negative camber = inside tire wear.
Positive camber = outside tire wear. ;)

Hermes,


Did you have the alignment checked since you have owned the car?? I should say, with my recent alignment experiences- you can have a W124 which pulls to one side, or centers perfectly yet both can be within spec. I'm assuming tire wear might be in the same catagory.

You need an alignment man familar with Benz's and whom owns the spreaderbar which pushes the front of the tires outward to simulate cruiz conditions, without this-the car will toe-out of spec when you travel down the road.

I noticed you are a local...


Michael