Tire chains aren't one-size-fits-all, but by finding some basic information on your car's tires you can make sure you get the right ones from the auto parts store.Dec 15, 2016
Do tire chains need to be exact size?
In our experience a recommended chain size will only fit 80% of the tires it should. You do NOT want to be part of that 20% on the side of a snowy road. Fit your chains before you go. The extra practice putting them on won't hurt.
Do chains fit all tires?
Front-wheel-drive vehicles must put snow chains on their front tires, and rear-wheel-drive vehicles must put them on their rear axle. ... Ideally, you should put tire chains on all four tires for all types of vehicles. By using four tire chains, you'll be able to obtain the best possible traction and balance.
How do I know what size tire chains to get?
The first number indicates the tire width, the second gives you the ratio of tire height (margin wall height as a percentage of width), and the third indicates the diameter of the wheel released in inches. You can buy chains usually based on the size of your tire. The tire should have a scale on the leg. ie 23X9.
Can I use tire chains that are too big?
Tire chains are adjustable, and if they are too big when you first put them on all you need to to is tighten them to make them snug. This will make it safer to drive on the snow and ice by giving your tires more grip and better traction, keeping you from sliding down hills or spinning out when going around corners.
How do I know what size chains I need?
- Look at the sidewalls of your tires. ...
- Locate the first three numbers grouped together. ...
- Find the two numbers after the dash and before the R. ...
- Locate the two numbers directly after the R.
Do tire chains have to be exact size?
Since tire chains are designed to fit specific tire sizes and those tires have specific load ratings you should have no issues as long as you are within your load weight rating and you are driving the recommended speed by law with tire chains on (or no more than 30 mph with these tire chains).
Do chains go on all tires?
Ideally, you should put tire chains on all four tires for all types of vehicles. ... If chains are only put on the front tires, the back of the vehicle can react unpredictably during driving and braking, while if chains are only put on the rear tires, the steering ability of the vehicle is jeopardized.