Some drivers live in areas where it gets more than just a few inches of snow, but more like a few feet of the cold, powdery stuff. They may need other kinds of tires. Winters can be brutal for some states, and some people live in places that are tough for snowplows to reach. Tire chains are necessary in these areas.
In some places, tire chains, which are also called snow chains, are illegal. There are certain states that restrict where and when tire chains can be used. Research whether your state allows snow chains and when they can be used before you start shopping for a set.
It is important to take a few factors into account when purchasing snow chains For Nissan Frontier. If you install snow chains onto your tires, you must know how much clearance they will have, and know your budget. Additionally, the chains will have to be stored in a relatively large trunk until they are ready for installation.
If you have a passenger car, you have to purchase snow chains that carry an SAE Class S rating. The rating means that these chains are meant to be used by front-wheel-drive cars with low ground clearances. The best snow chains for trucks may not be the same for small cars. Keep that in mind when looking for a set of chains.
With all that out of the way, here are our eight best snow chains for cars. The majority of the chains on this list will work on pickup trucks and SUVs, too.
Thule 9mm CG9 Premium Passenger Tire Chain
Even though most snow chains require a lot of effort to install and remove, the Thule CG9 makes the process as painless as possible. This is thanks to the self-centering and self-tensioning system which eliminates the need to jump in and out of the car to get the chains on, while the brightly-colored assembly links are easy to use and provide added visibility in poor conditions.
9mm chain provides good clearance (making these suitable for smaller vehicles) and makes for a better ride. Despite the chain’s small size, the steel construction, which is high-quality, makes it highly durable. Thule CG9 offers excellent convenience and performance at a low price point.
Security Chain Company Super Z6 Tire Chain
The Security Chain Company (SCC) is a company that installs snow chains on cars and trucks. A state-of-the-art design, the Super Z6 ditches the conventional link-style chain to offer one of the highest-spec snow chains available. In its place, the Super Z6 comes with a unique cable-type chain that allows tight clearances.
Installing the Super Z6 is easy, and doesn’t require moving the vehicle or fitting extra chain tighteners. The alloy cables provide superior all-around capability than competing link-type chains and the only drawback are their relatively high price when compared to less capable options.
Quality Chain Cobra
These Quality Chain Cobra chains are an excellent option for those interested in tire chains on a budget. Steel rollers with low profiles allow for optimal contact between the tires and the road. Galvanized steel rollers will not rust in wintery conditions, as well. You won’t have to move your car back and forth when you install the chains either, making them easy to place on your tires. One of the major downsides of these chains is that the rubber adjusters that you need to fit the chains over your tires are sold separately.
Konig XG-12 Pro
On this list, Konig XG-12 Pro tire chains are among the most expensive. Although the chains are expensive, they have some incredible engineering. You can micro-regulate Konig chains so they keep their tension and stay on your tires. You’ll notice that the chains have a unique design. 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.
Thule CG-9 2-Piece Chain Set
This Swedish company founded in 2006 is known for the fact that it makes products that allow adventuresome consumers to enjoy their outdoor experience. It’s a bit of an expert at helping people navigate through heavy snow, so it knows what it’s doing. Thule’s CG-9 snow chains might not be the most popular option, but they’re packed with some smart features and technologies. These snow chains from the brand are made from aluminum alloy steel, and feature a scratch-resistant solution for the wheel rims, as well as a self-tensioning system that allows for a precise fit. Thule also provides a kit that includes spare parts, mounting instructions, a kneeling mat, and gloves with the chains.
Peerless Auto-Trac Chain
Tire chains are an important component of a winter vehicle so when one thinks about snow chains, one automatically thinks of Peerless Auto-Trac snow chains. They are equipped with self-tightening ratchets that automatically tighten the chains to their proper tension, reducing the need to continually check them and make sure they’re properly centered. 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. They’re made out of manganese alloy steel to be relatively light and highly durable. Unfortunately, if you plan on blasting through snow, these aren’t the chains for you. They carry a top speed rating of 30 mph.