How to Choose a Snow Chain Size
Even experienced drivers get in accidents when roads are covered with sheets of ice or large snow drifts. Since tires can't get traction on slippery surfaces, cars spin out of control. Increase traction by installing snow chains on your tires. The chains grab onto the road's surface to lessen the chance of an accident. Snow chain sizes vary and you must purchase the right size to avoid damaging the road or your tires. A snow chain that is too loose or too tight can rub against the tire sidewall and cause a blowout.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Read your car's owner's manual to determine the tire class of your vehicle. According to AutoMedia.com, Class S vehicles require a snow chain that can accommodate the size of the wheel well. Once you know the tire class of your vehicle, look for snow chains that list that class on the packaging.
-
2
Look at the tires you want to wrap in snow chains. The tire sidewall lists the exact size of the tire using numbers and letters, such as "P225/50R16 91S". Write down these numbers and letters and bring it with you when you purchase snow chains.
-
-
3
Visit an auto supply store to purchase your snow chains. Look at the packaging to see if it can accommodate the tire size you wrote down. If you're unsure if you have the right tire chain, ask a sales associate for help. They should be able to find a snow chain that will fit your tires based on the size code.
-
4
Install the chains for a test run while weather is still good based on the instructions in the packaging. Determine if the snow chains fit. If they don't, bring them back to the auto supply store. If they fit, take them off the tires and wait to use them once there is an ice or snow storm.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Some states have laws against using snow chains. Consult with the laws in your state before buying or installing snow chains.
References
- Photo Credit snow image by Aleksandr Himcenko from Fotolia.com
