How to Choose the Right Tire Chains for Your Vehicle
Thanks to the creation of tire chains in 1904, the world has seen innovative and effective ways of increasing traction on winter roads, including cable chains, heavy-duty or link-fit chains, quick-fit chains, and tire sock traction devices. However, choosing the right set of winter chains or traction devices can seem complicated. With a little bit of information found on your current tires, a review of your vehicle owner’s manual, and some tips from Les Schwab, you’ll know what size and type of snow chains to buy for what and where you drive.
Les Schwab has a wide selection of snow chains and the expertise to ensure you set off on your next adventure with the right type and size. We even have some tips on how to install them. Stop by any location or book your appointment today.
Step 1 - Know Your Tire Size
Whether you buy snow socks, cables, or chains, those traction devices must fit your tires. To get the right size, simply check the sidewall on one of your tires.
For passenger and light truck tires, the first letter you could see is either a P or LT followed by a three-digit number. That first number is the width of the tire.
The next number is the aspect ratio, indicating the tire’s sidewall or profile size.
With these two numbers, you can quickly and easily identify the right size snow chains or traction devices for your vehicle. Look for tire chains or traction devices that fit your width and aspect ratio. You’ll find those numbers (or a range of those numbers) listed on the packaging.
Not sure what chains to buy? Stop by Les Schwab. Our professionals can send you on your way with the right traction devices along with the Les Schwab chain warranty. If you don’t use those chains all winter long, return them in the spring for a full refund.
Step 2 - Consider Your Clearance Requirements
Before you buy a set of snow chains or traction devices, check your owner’s manual for clearance requirements for snow chains or ask the professional at Les Schwab for help. Some of today’s vehicles have just inches of clearance between the tire and the bottom of the wheel well. That lack of clearance can limit the type of chains you can safely use on your vehicle. If you drive a low-clearance vehicle, you’ll need a set of SAE Class S tire chains or snow socks.
Step 3 – Determine Your Vehicle’s Drive Type
Do you know if your vehicle is front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or four-wheel drive? That information is vitally important when using snow chains or traction devices.
Check your owner’s manual for information about your vehicle. But overall, if your vehicle is front-wheel drive, install the chains on the front. If it’s rear-wheel drive, install them on the back. If it’s all-wheel drive, you’ll want to check your owner’s manual. If you’re not sure, ask the experts at Les Schwab.
Step 4 – Decide Which Type of Chain is Best for Your Needs
There are quite a few traction device options at Les Schwab. Each one has its own set of benefits. These include:
Quick-Fit Chains
Quick-fit chains are easy to install, come in various sizes to fit most passenger vehicles, and are rugged enough to last for years.
Tire Socks
Tire socks are the perfect alternative to chains and are easy to install on almost any vehicle in minutes. Even those with low clearance can use tire socks.
Cable Chains (Volt Cable Chains)
Cable chains and volt cable chains are a solid low-clearance option. They are great for drivers who occasionally need traction devices.
Heavy-Duty Chains (Link Fit)
Heavy-duty or link-fit chains offer maximum traction and durability for bigger rigs, SUVs, or industrial vehicles.
 |
 |
 |
 |
Tire Socks
|
Cable Chains (Volt Cable Chains)
|
Quick-Fit Chains
|
Link-Fit/Heavy-Duty Chains
|
|
|
Tire Socks
|
Cable Chains (Volt Cable Chains)
|
|
|
Quick-Fit Chains
|
Link-Fit/Heavy-Duty Chains
|
Step 5 – Know Local Laws for Winter Chains and Snow Traction Devices
When and where you can use tire chains and traction devices varies by state. Usually, those in charge of mountain pass roadways will require chains when the snow gets deep and the road becomes impassable without them. In some states, driving without snow chains when they are required can result in fines.
Check out our complete list of snow chain and traction tire laws and requirements, along with weather forecasts and road condition reports.
Step 6 – Plan for Proper Installation and Safe Driving Practices
Before you drive into the snow with your tire chains or traction devices in the trunk or back seat, try installing them at home in the garage or dry location. Most of the snow chains and devices you buy at Les Schwab come with a set of instructions. We also have a few how-to videos to help with your first installation, including how-to install quick-fit chains and how-to install tire socks.
Check out these safe winter driving resources and learn how to put on snow chains.
Step 7 – Know Your Return and Replacement Option
When you buy your snow chains and traction devices from us, they come with the Les Schwab chain warranty. That means you can carry them with you all winter long for those just-in-case moments. Then, if you don’t end up using them, you can return them in the spring for a full refund. It’s our way of helping you add some safety to every outing without breaking the bank.
Get the Right Traction Devices for Your Vehicle
Les Schwab has been helping locals choose the right snow chains and traction devices for their vehicles for decades. We’re here to help you, too. Stop by your local Les Schwab. Our team of professionals will show you all the options, answer all your questions, show you some of the basics of installation, and send you home with the right size and option for your vehicle.