Safety is our number one concern at Discount Tire. Check out our winter driving tips to learn how you can own the road this winter!
We're your wheel and tire experts and are here for you if you have any questions or concerns. Drop in or give us a call!
Buy your products and book your appointment online to get a shorter wait time in the store!
Tire Chains FAQ
Good news: we offer tire chain installation services! (We also offer winter tire changeover services, too!)
If you prefer to DIY, then here are some basic step by step instructions:
-
Remove chains from their package and untangle them.
-
Lay them on the ground next to their corresponding tires.
-
Fit them over the top of the tire; ensure that they are straight and hanging down.
-
Tuck the chains between the bottom of the tire and the ground to hold them in place when you drive forward. (Some chains use ring fasteners and fasten on the inside of the wheel, requiring you to work under your vehicle to install them.)
-
Move your vehicle forward a little bit to expose the unfitted part of the tire.
-
Turn the wheel to the inside to give you better access to the unfastened portion of the chain.
-
Connect the chains together to cover the remainder of the tire. Ensure that the inner and outer connections are aligned.
-
Repeat for remaining tires.
-
Drive about 100 feet and retighten the chains to ensure they're good to go.
Each tire chain brand and type will have a different method, so please consult your owner's manual. Also keep in mind that chains will frequently require bungee cords to tighten them.
-
Make sure your vehicle is in a safe, open place and is as level as possible.
-
Keep your vehicle in park with the parking brake engaged until you need to move forward.
-
If you have a FWD vehicle, you only need chains on the front tires. If you have RWD, you only need them on the back. AWD owners need chains on all four tires.
-
Thoroughly read and consult your chain's instructions; each chain type will have different methods for fastening and installation.
-
Bundle up in warm, water resistant clothing during installation as it will take some time to finish.
If severe winter weather is only an occasional occurrence, tire chains may do the trick. Tire chains make sense if you're traveling into snowy, mountainous regions or remote areas with heavy snow and ice.
But if you live in a place that typically and regularly receives lots of snowfall and winter conditions, we highly recommend winter tires.
And if your region experiences severe blizzard or winter conditions, you may consider studded tires for additional traction on ice.
Tire chains are cheaper but require more work to install. Though they can be easily removed and stored, they limit how fast you can travel (well below 30mph, usually 15-20mph). Because of this, they're more suited for emergency driving, traveling through harsh mountain passes or remote, icy roads rather than as a fixture of your daily commute.
Snow or tire chains are legal in the US in many wintry states, typically from November 1 until springtime.
Chains are only for use in conditions where they don't touch the road surface because they can cause damage to the road surface over time.. Chains are intended to provide an additional layer of traction in deep snow and on ice.
Check your state's laws regarding the legality of tire chains and when or where they are allowed. Road signs should also be posted in relevant areas.
The tire chains you choose should be legal in your state. They should also be appropriate for your region and vehicle, and be the proper size for your tires.
It can seem a little daunting to shop for tire chains if you've never previously worked with them. Check out our Tire Chains & Snow Chains buying guide to get started!