I bought the Mercedes E350 2010 model on October of 2010 and about Nov 30, my left side tire is bust open secondary to pot hole gravel, the incidence is very scary, all the sudden car is I full stop and lean to the left side. I have to change the tire and went to the Mercedes dealer and other tires shop for repair. Then I was heard this combination of tires 245/40 R18 97V which is rim is 18 inches and tires thickness in the side are to thin which make easily rupture with slight contact of any sharp. I am feeling of insecurity for flat tires anytime even I bought the newest model luxury car. I would like NHTSA for look into the dangerous combination of tires and rim for safety of all drivers in the road.

- Oakland Gardens, NY, USA

The contact owns a 2010 Mercedes E350. While driving at approximately 15 mph, the driver side rear tire went flat. The contact had the tire replaced. On another occasion, the contact was driving at approximately 25 mph when the driver front tire became flat so he had that one replaced. The contact called the dealership and the dealer explained that 'no other tire was the safest tire for the vehicle' and the manufacturer's tire was the best for the vehicle. The contact called the manufacturer but no assistance was provided. The VIN was not available. The current mileage was approximately 8,300. The failure mileage was approximately 6,300.

- Red Bank, NJ, USA