No matter what type of vehicle you drive, snow and ice can put your tires to the test. One surefire way to increase your traction and make extreme winter driving easier is to install snow tire chains.
Snow tire chains, which fit over your tires, are ideal for travel through heavy snow routes and mountain passes. They may even be required for driving in certain areas. However, when it comes to tire chains, remember to tread wisely: They are designed only for extreme conditions. Using them on dry roads or at high speeds (above 30 miles per hour) can cause irreparable damage to the pavement, to your car or truck, and to the tire chains themselves.
Before Installing
If you decide to invest in snow chains, the first thing you’ll need to do is make sure you purchase the correct size for your vehicle. Along the outer edge of your tires, you’ll find a series of letters and numbers. These represent your tire measurements and you’ll need to match these with your new chains. Here’s what the numbers mean:
- The first number is the tire width.
- The second is the height ratio, from the sidewall of the tire to the width.
- The third tells you the diameter of the wheel (typically marked in inches)
Steel link snow tire chains are the most common, but there are also diamond-patterned versions, traction cables that use cable wire rather than steel chains, as well as fabric versions.
Automotive experts recommend practicing installing your snow tire chains before bad weather sets in. Consider doing a few run-throughs on a dry surface—your garage or driveway will do—to make sure you’re ready to get your chains on quickly in poor weather if they are needed.
Installing Snow Tire Chains
Step 1: Lay out the chains
First, lay out your chains next to each wheel. If you have a front-wheel-drive vehicle, you can put chains on the two front wheels only. The same logic applies if you have rear-wheel drive—you can choose to install chains on the back two wheels only. However, putting chains on all four tires will provide maximum control on snow-covered surfaces. All-wheel drive vehicles should always have chains on all four tires; driving with less than a complete set of chains with all-wheel drive can cause your vehicle to lose control.
Step 2: Put chains in the correct position
Your snow chains might need to be untangled before putting them on. After straightening the chains, make sure the steel hooks on the cross chains are facing downward. (If they are faced in, they could damage tires or even cause a blowout.) Find the fastening lock on the outside of the side chain and ensure it is facing the outside of the wheel.
Step 3: Drive your vehicle onto the chains
Once you’re sure the chains are in the correct position, put them one by one in front of each wheel and drive your car or truck onto the chain. You want at least one foot of the chain in front of the wheel.
Step 4: Connect the chains
Lift the chain on the tire, starting with the rear. Let the chain lay on the top of the tire and then lift the remainder of the chain from the front and lay it atop the other section. Connect the chain ends with the C-hook on the inner part of the tire near the axle, and then connect the hooked edges on the outside of the tires. Make sure the chain is centered on the tire.
Step 5: Give them a quick test
Drive your car forward slowly for about 15 to 20 yards and then come to a complete stop, braking softly. Get out and make sure the chains are still tight. If they’ve come loose, adjust the outer chain one link tighter until the chains fit tightly.
Step 6: Removing the snow tire chains
After you’ve safely cleared snow-covered road conditions and reach dry pavement, remove your snow tire chains as soon as possible. Pull over in a safe location and take the following steps:
- Disconnect the chains from inside of the wheel; you may need to turn the wheels hard to the inside to reach the C-hook.
- Open the chains and lay them out under your wheel, making sure they are not stuck around the wheel or axle.
- Finally, drive forward until your tires clear the chains.
Driving Tips
Operating a vehicle with snow tire chains may feel awkward at first, but you should notice the additional traction as the steel grabs the surface of the snow. While driving remember these tips:
- Listen for any slapping metal sounds that could signal the chain is loose or broken.
- Don’t exceed more than 25 miles per hour.
- Only drive on snow and ice—never dry roads.
- Avoid accelerating or hard braking.
During winter, it is also helpful to have towing chains or cables on hand in the event your vehicle or another is stuck in the snow or ice. You may even consider installing a towing hitch.
Storing Your Chains
After using your chains, lay them out flat to dry in an enclosed space to avoid rust. Try to avoid tangling up the steel links. Check for wear and tear; flat spots on the chains are a sure sign that links need to be replaced. Pack them up neatly and they’ll be ready to roll the next time rough winter weather comes to visit.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.