Losing traction in the snow is no one\u2019s idea of a good time. Even in areas not known for abysmal snowstorms, winter can create icy and hazardous road conditions that drivers must be prepared to deal with. Adding<\/span> tire chains<\/a><\/strong> for cars can be a workable solution to get you where you need to go when the roads are not your friend \u2014 but they can also be a pain.<\/span><\/p>\n Knowing when to employ chains can help you get out of a slippery situation, but you have to know what you\u2019re doing first.<\/span><\/p>\n Technically Speaking<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Different laws regulate chain usage<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0in different states. Before you invest in a shiny new pair, make sure you know whether chains are illegal, permitted or even required in some cases. Generally, a chain \u201crequirement\u201d means you must have them in your vehicle if you want to pass certain checkpoints that pop up in inclement weather. Places where chains are permitted usually come with some disclaimer that restrict their usage, so make sure you know the law and follow it.<\/span><\/p>\n The other important factor to consider is whether your vehicle is suitable for chains. You can find chains for most tire sizes, but there must be enough clearance for them to fit on without causing damage to the body, undercarriage or brakes. Consult your owner\u2019s manual for specifications and allowances.<\/span><\/p>\n Be Prepared<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Because chains are something you will likely need to take on and off at least once per trip, and because the conditions surrounding their use are usually cold, soggy and snowy, it\u2019s best to practice installation first, ideally when the weather is still nice. Without driving the car anywhere, put them on and take them off a couple of times to get the hang of it so that when you do eventually need them, you aren\u2019t stuck fumbling and trying to figure out how to get them on with freezing fingers. Also, if you\u2019re carrying chains, pack a safety vest as well. There\u2019s a good chance you\u2019ll have to pull onto the side of the road at some point to adjust or remove them, and if it\u2019s snowing, visibility will be low.<\/span><\/p>\n Right Conditions<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Tire chains for cars should only be used if there is a layer of snow or ice on the road. Using chains on bare pavement can cause substantial damage to both your tires and the road itself. If you turn onto a road that\u2019s clearly been plowed and salted, pull over and remove the chains.<\/span><\/p>\n It always pays to<\/span> be careful when driving in freezing conditions<\/a><\/strong>, but chains require a whole new level of attention and care. When on, the car should not be driven above 30 miles per hour and you have to be mindful of curbs when parking. On two-wheel drive vehicles, chains must be attached to wheels on the drive axle, but ideally you get them on all four. If installed only in the front there will be a tendency to oversteer and a tendency to understeer if they\u2019re only in the back. Four-wheel drive vehicles should have chains installed on all tires.<\/span><\/p>\n Though they can be cumbersome, snow chains make a real difference in winter weather when you need to get somewhere without mother nature\u2019s permission, but only if they\u2019re being used safely and effectively. Otherwise, you\u2019ll just be spinning your wheels.<\/span><\/p>\n For more information on tire chains for cars, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local<\/span> NAPA AUTO PARTS store<\/a><\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo Credit:<\/span>\u00a0Snow Chains on Bus Tire<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0by<\/span>\u00a0Oran Viriyincy<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>(<\/span>CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/strong>).<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n