Snow tires may not be enough for drivers who live in places that get more than just a few inches of snow. There are some states that get hammered with snow in the winter, and some drivers live in places where snowplows can’t reach. It’s a must to have tire chains in these places.
Some places don’t allow tire chains, which are also called snow chains. Tire chains are allowed in some states, but there are strict rules about where and when they can be used. Before you buy snow chains for your car, you should learn whether they’re legal in your state and when you can use them.
You need to consider a few things when choosing best tire chains for Toyota Rav4. Once the snow chains are on your tires, you need to know how much clearance they’ll have and what you’re willing to spend. Additionally, you’ll need a trunk big enough to hold the chains until you’re ready to put them on.
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.
Security Chain Company Radial Chain
It is worth considering the Radial Chain of the Security Chain Company for occasional use. Snow chains with a simple design and a simple install are not self-tensioning. Although it is more difficult to install and remove snow chains than some more expensive options, it is always a good idea to practice before you’re in an emergency. Snow chains of any kind can be installed the same way. In general, these snow chains are affordable if you are required to use them on a rare occasion. These aren’t the best chains you can buy, but they’re certainly cheap.
Thule CG-9 2-Piece Chain Set
Swedish brand Thule manufactures products for consumers who enjoy going on adventures. That means it knows a little something about getting through a lot of snow. The company’s CG-9 snow chains are some of its most popular options, but they’re packed with innovative tech. Nickel alloy steel snow chains have anti-scratch rims, and a micro-regulated self-tensioning system. Thule also provides a kit that includes spare parts, mounting instructions, a kneeling mat, and gloves with the chains.
Security Chain Company Super Z Traction Chain
According to the Security Chain Company, Super Z tire chains are the easiest to install of any traction product. In addition to being easy to install, Super Z tire chains have built-in rubber tensioners that won’t need to be adjusted or tightened after installation. These tire chains are specifically for consumers who don’t need them very often. Though they might not last as long as chains and won’t get as much traction as other options on this list, they take up little space when it comes to storage.
Thule 9mm CG9 Premium Passenger Tire Chain
The Thule CG9’s design makes the process of installing and removing snow chains as easy and straightforward as possible despite most snow chains requiring considerable effort. Because the chains self-center and self-tension, you do not need to jump in and out of the car to put them on, while the brightly-colored assembly links are easy to use and provide additional visibility in poor weather.
Nine-millimeter chains provide good clearance (allowing use on smaller vehicles) and provide a smoother ride. This steel chain is incredibly durable despite its smaller size. Despite being expensive, the Thule CG9 provides superior convenience and quality.
AutoSock Standard Snow Tire Chain
A new take on snow traction enhancing devices, Auto sock is a great alternative to bulky tire chains. A textile cover wraps around the whole tire instead of hard-riding, noisy chains. As with conventional snow chains, the surface is filled with fibers that facilitate traction on snow and ice.
If durability is an issue, the Auto sock can be machine-washed after use and cleaned off dirt that has lodged into the textile. The best part of this Auto sock is how it can be rolled up and tucked away when not in use.
Security Chain Company Super Z6 Tire Chain