Snow tires may not be enough for drivers in areas where they get not just a few inches, but more like several feet of the cold, powdery stuff. In some states, snow plows cannot reach remote areas during the winter, which results in the driver getting stuck in the snow. Tire chains are necessary in these areas.
Tire chains, which are also called snow chains, aren’t legal everywhere. Certain states have strict requirements on where and when tire chains can be used. Before you start searching for a set of snow chains for your car, it’s best to do some research on whether they’re allowed in your state and when they can be used.
When you’re considering which snow chains to purchase Best Tire Chains For Lexus RX 350, there are a few factors to consider. You’ll need to know how large your vehicle’s tires are, how much clearance the snow chains will have once they’re fitted onto your tires, and how much you’re willing to spend. Besides having a relatively large trunk, you’ll also need large cargo nets, because this is where the chains will remain until you’re ready to set them up.
When it comes to snow chains, you must make sure that the snow chains you buy carry the SAE Class S rating. It can be gathered from this that the ratings are designed for front-wheel drive vehicles with low ground clearance that require chains with this rating. Generally speaking, it is not the same to put snow chains on a minivan as it is on a large truck. Keeping that in mind will help you when looking for a pair of chains.
All that being said, let’s take a look at our eight top picks for the best snow chains for cars. It is worth noting that most of the chains on this list are suitable for pickups and SUVs as well.
Security Chain Company Super Z6 Tire Chain
Security Chain Company (SCC) is an application developer for snow chains for cars and trucks. Snow chains from SCC, including the Super Z6, feature a modern design that dispenses with traditional link-type chains. With its unique cable-type chain, the Super Z6 offers excellent clearance.
The Super Z6 is simple to install, and requires no vehicle movement or chain tighteners to be installed. Alloy cables provide superior overall performance than link-type chains, but their only drawback is their relatively high price when compared with alternatives with less capability.
Thule CB12 Tire Chain
Consider the Thule CB12 if you do not see the sense in spending a lot of money on something you will most likely only use occasionally, if at all. The CB12, unlike its more expensive siblings, is purposely designed with no frills in exchange for a more functional and affordable product. While this asymmetrical chain has not been equipped with a quick-release mechanism, it is not any more challenging to install than the average snow chain (which requires moving the car backwards and forwards).
The chain links provide traction in both deep snow and glare ice, and can be counted on to get you to your destination. When shopping for the Thule CB12, be sure to take into consideration the size that you will need for your particular car or truck.
AutoSock Standard Snow Tire Chain
A fresh take on snow traction enhancers, the Autosock replaces bulky tire chains. Rather than hard-riding chains around the tire, Autosock uses a flexible, specially-designed textile cover. Unlike conventional snow chains, this is made of traction-enhancing fibers.
For those concerned about long-term durability, the Autosock is fully reusable and can be machine-washed after use to clean off the dirt lodged into the textile. Best of all, the textile-based Autosock can be folded up and stashed out of the way once it is not needed anymore.
Konig XG-12 Pro
It is no surprise that the Konig XG-12 Pro is one of the most expensive tire chains we have reviewed. However, with an extremely high price tag associated with them, these tire chains are somewhat of an engineering marvel. With Konig chains, you do not just enjoy the tension set, you also do not have to worry about the chain slipping off your tires. You might notice that the chains have a design on them that makes them stand out from the rest. It’s for maximum traction in awful wintery conditions. Your wheels will be scratch-free with these chains, too, as they come with anti-scratch nylon bumpers.
Suptempo Emergency Anti-Slip Tire Traction Chains
Hence, Suptempo’s anti-slip tire chains are not exactly chains. Unlike a chain that fits around your entire tire, three of these have to go on each tire. Each chain has nine alloy steel nails that dig into the snow for traction. While there is a bit of a learning curve, they do have their advantages. Since they are lighter, more affordable, and don’t need to be adjusted after being installed, they are a good option. One of the downsides of these tires is that they are only meant to be used for short periods because they have less grip on ice and snow in wintery conditions.
Peerless Auto-Trac Chain
Whenever you think about snow chains, the Peerless Auto-Trac is the set you think about first. There is a self-tightening ratchet on each chain that makes sure they are tightened automatically, so there is no need to keep checking them and making sure they are perfectly centered on the tire. A large-linked radial chain does not offer the traction on snow that a diamond pattern does. This method also provides a more comfortable ride. Made from manganese alloy steel, they are lightweight and very durable. It is unfortunate that these chains aren’t good for blazing through snow. They are capable of speeds of up to 30 mph.