Tires
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May 30, 2019
9 Tips for Choosing the Right Tire Chains for Winter Driving
Tires |Winter driving presents challenges that even the most seasoned drivers must prepare for. Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and unpredictable weather conditions can make seemingly simple journeys hazardous. This is where tire chains come into play.
These road safety essentials help you maintain control and avoid accidents during icy and snowy conditions. But if you’re not familiar with tire chains, buying them can be confusing. Below, we offer some simple but effective tips for choosing the right tire chains for your driving this winter.
Tire Chains: What They Are and Who Needs Them
Before we get into how to select the ideal chains for your vehicle and tires, what are tire chains, and who needs them? Tire chains are devices that wrap around vehicle tires to enhance traction on snowy and icy roads. Drivers who frequently navigate areas with severe winter conditions find chains particularly essential.
In regions with heavy snowfall or icy surfaces, regular tires lose grip. While winter tires improve cold-weather performance, tire chains offer the extra traction necessary in extreme situations. For people living in areas prone to harsh winter weather, tire chains provide peace of mind.
Tips for Buying the Ideal Tire Chains for Your Vehicle
#1: Understand the Different Types of Tire Chains Available
Before you start browsing for tire chains online or at your local tire shop, it’s best to first familiarize yourself with the types available. Some popular options include cable chains, link chains, and diamond-patterned chains.
Cable chains are lightweight and easy to install, making them a popular choice for occasional use. Link chains, on the other hand, are more robust and suitable for frequent use in harsh conditions. Finally, diamond-patterned chains offer an excellent balance of grip and smooth riding.
#2: Select the Right Size for Your Vehicle’s Tires
Choosing the correct size of tire chains is crucial for optimal performance and safety. Tire chains that are too small won’t fit properly, while oversized chains can damage your tires or vehicle.
To find the right size, check your vehicle’s tire specifications, which you can typically find on the tire sidewall. These specifications include the tire’s width, aspect ratio, and diameter. Keep this information handy and double-check that the tire chains you want come in your vehicle’s tire size.
#3: Consider the Legal Requirements in Your Area
In certain regions with intense winter driving conditions, municipalities may legally require tire chains for vehicles. Such areas may also enforce a certain type of tire chain for cars to safely drive on roads during the winter.
First, you should double-check whether your region requires tire chains, and if it does, whether it enforces a certain type of tire chain. Make sure your chosen tire chains meet the standards.
#4: Check for Compatibility With Your Vehicle
Not all tire chains are equal, hence not every available tire chain will be suitable for your specific car. Many factors determine if a tire chain is compatible with a certain vehicle, such as vehicle size, weight, and tire type.
Check your car’s owner’s manual or consult with your car’s manufacturer to determine the best type of chains for your vehicle. Some cars, particularly those with limited wheel clearance or delicate suspension systems, may require special low-profile chains to prevent damage.
#5: Look for Easy Installation and Removal
Unless you’re driving in a region with major snowfall and severely low temperatures for the entirety of winter, you likely will have to attach tire chains only for special weather occasions (blizzards, freezing rain, etc.). If you will probably install and remove tire chains more than once throughout the winter, consider options with easy installation and removal.
Certain tire chains come with user-friendly features, such as self-tightening mechanisms, quick-connect links, and color-coded instructions. These simplify the installation process, ensuring you spend less time in the cold and more time safely on the road.
#6: Prioritize Durability for Long-Lasting Chains
You want to prioritize durability and longevity in tire chains to get an adequate return on your investment. Consider tire chains made from high-quality materials, such as hardened steel or alloy, which resist wear and tear.
Also, examine the chain’s build quality and any additional features, such as anticorrosion coatings, which can extend its lifespan. Durable tire chains may have a higher upfront cost, but they offer better value over time by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
#7: Consider the Type of Winter Driving You Do
Another tip for choosing the right tire chains for winter driving is to reflect on the type of winter driving you do. Different driving conditions require different tire chain features.
For instance, if you frequently drive on highways, you may benefit from chains for high-speed travel, which offer reduced noise and vibration. If you often must drive off the road into more treacherous and deep winter conditions, look for heavy-duty chains that provide maximum traction in deep snow or ice. By considering your typical winter driving conditions, you can select tire chains that best suit your needs and enhance your driving experience.
#8: Read User Reviews
User reviews and recommendations can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of various tire chains. Online forums, automotive websites, and retailer reviews are excellent resources for gathering information about a product’s real-world performance. Look for reviews from drivers with similar vehicles and driving conditions to get an accurate understanding of how a product will perform in your situation.
#9: Compare Prices and Value for Money
Of course, you also must consider the price of your vehicle’s new tire chains. While you certainly don’t want to spend more than you need to, you should consider the overall value of your preferred tire chains.
While cheaper chains may be tempting, they often lack the durability and features necessary for reliable performance. Balance your budget with the quality and features of the chains you’re considering to make the best choice.
Drive Safely This Winter With RNR Tire Express
We hope our tips help you select the perfect tire chains for your vehicle and its tires. Whether you’re looking for tires in Lubbock or chains in Colorado, RNR Tire Express is here to help ensure you stay safe on the road, no matter the season. Browse our inventory of tires and tire supplies online, or stop by one of our locations to speak with our tire experts today.
