I have alwaysput snow tires only on the rear wheels of my e320 andmy current e 430. I justpurchased the '04 500 and have been advised to put them on all 4 wheels. I did not getthe 4-matic. I live in Pennsylvania. Is this really necessary?

 

In order to maintain evenly balanced handling characteristics it is highly recommended to install them on all 4 wheels. I haven't had to buy snow tires in almost 17 years (thank God) but a lot of the reports that I've read have recommended either the Michelin Artic Alpins or the Kumho KW-11's.

 

Yes it is. Your ABS will get unhappy because the front and rear tires have a difference in tread viscosity and not to mention that the rear wheels will get tracton under slippery conditions but the front tires will not steer the car nor brake as well. That is why it is important to match the front and rear tires. A nice set of all weather tires can make the difference of driving a great car in the winter safely or wondering why it didn't handle as well in dry weather when you slide off the road! Get some good rubber!