Genuine Mercedes tie rod boots split after 15K miles
 

Forgot to get a picture but I'll get one tomorrow. I replaced the tie rods when I did the suspension on my 190E Sportline about 18 months ago. Tuesday, I had the wheels off to get the bumper, etc off for new belt tensioner, power steering pump and AC compressor. Noticed that the outer tie rod boots on both sides were split. I have no explanation as to why that would happen since I replaced the URO tie rods the PO put on there with Genuine Mercedes.

Possibly damaged upon installation or maybe part was on the shelf for a while before it got to you. What I do for all the rubber bushings and boots on my 201 is use very thick (30,000 cst) pure silicone oil to coat them. That way they don't deteriorate as fast. I actually use it when I shine my sidewalls after a car wash as well. Also over my spare tire to keep the rubber supple. Silicone doesn't degrade rubber like petroleum based products so it's safe.

check the clearance of the wheel to the tie rod end, with 15 inch wheels the wheel weight can cut the boot.
there was a bulletin on the 190E 16v but I am unsure of the sportline

Was the wheel weights.