Snow chains recommendations?

[brunolg68]

Hi everyone I have a 2025 Premium AWS, what snow chains do you use?

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[ddeluce]

I don't use chains. All season tires and AWD have worked fine (make sure your tires have adequate tread on them). There is very limited clearance for any type of traction devices on your tires so be careful if you decide to use them, and you will need to put them on all four wheels. In more than 30 years of driving to Tahoe from the Bay Area, I have never had Caltrans ask me to chain up an AWD car.

 

[brunolg68]

Hi Dave,

thank you for you reply, we are also commuting from the Tahoe area to the Bay Area . I have always carried chains in my car as a precaution and you are right, in 28 years for us I was asked to chained only once but that’s because I was towing a trailer.. I was worried because of the clearance with the 19” tires, but your response is reassuring me.

 

[dan_meh]

I just drove my 2024 AWD on a snowy adventure. It exceeded expectations, even on all seasons. I had no worries about traction. If I did more than the occasional snow trip, I would feel super confident in snow tires on the MME, but the stock set up works.

 

[tbrumleve]

PNW - I drive up to Mt Hood or Mt Bachelor almost every weekend in the winter. Snow tires (studless winter, three peak) have taken me through rough snow. I’ve never needed the snow socks I bought. Snow socks are for emergency conditions and not for regular / sustained use, however.

The manual gives you specific info on snow chains:

Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:

On non-GT models, use ultra low profile snow chains or cables, 10 mm or less in dimension as measured on the sidewall of your tire, only with 225/60R18 or 225/55R19 all season tires.
On GT models, use ultra low profile snow chains or cables, 10 mm or less in dimension as measured on the sidewall of your tire, only with 225/55R19 all season tires.
Do not use snow chains or cables with 245/45R20.
Not all S-class snow chains or cables meet the same restrictions. Chains or cables of this size restriction include a tensioning device.
Purchase snow chains or cables from a manufacturer that clearly labels body to tire dimension restrictions.
Install snow chains or cables in pairs on the rear tires only.
When driving with snow chains or cables do not exceed 30 mph (50 km/h) or the maximum speed recommended by the chain or cable manufacturer, whichever is less.
Install snow chains or cables securely, verifying that the snow chains or cables do not touch any wiring or brake lines.
Drive cautiously. If you hear the snow chains or cables rub or bang against the vehicle, stop and retighten them. If this does not work, remove the snow chains or cables to prevent vehicle damage.
Remove the snow chains or cables when they are no longer needed. Do not use snow chains or cables on

Check the manual first.

 

[thekat03]

Maine resident here. I have snow socks in my frunk in the winter, but haven't needed them, on the original tires, or my snow peak rated all season tires.

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