How to fit snow chains on your car tires

Driving in winter requires taking additional measures, especially in the face of unpredictable weather events, rain or snowfall, that may occur at any time.

So, if you live near destinations where snow is frequent in winter, or you like to travel to snowy places during the winter, we recommend you take the snow chains with you at this time of the year, so you can use them when needed. When you find the snow covering the road, those chains are your best safety device.

When and where to fit the snow chains

Maybe you have considered, when do I need to use them?

If there is rain and heavy snow, they are essential for safe driving. Anticipate snowy weather and fit the snow chains when the snow layer is not too thick and fitting is easier. First of all, make sure that the tarmac is already covered in snow.

Once you have fitted your snow chains, the maximum speed at which you should drive in winter is 40 kph. Softness is key, to avoid sudden braking and acceleration. With them on, the snowiest areas are the most recommended for driving.

Tips before fitting snow chains on car tires

1. The best advice we can give you is often the most difficult to follow: practice. Go ahead and try before you hit the road and find the snow. With the cold, the jitters, the bad weather and the pressure to do it right, it is difficult to get it done at first try if you do not have experience. Winning this confidence comfortably at home is the best way to be prepared when the situation requires it.

2. Along with your chains, it is good to have packed a pair of gloves and wear them when fitting the chains: otherwise, your hands will be freezing!

3. Each model is different, so it is necessary to follow the user’s manual. This is another document that you should always carry in the car to avoid problems

Find here our recommend steps? 

1. Take the precaution of  placing the car on one side of the road, where it does not disturb the traffic, preferably in a place that  allows you to fit the chains undisturbed. Be careful when positioning your car on the side of the road, since accumulated ice may increase the probability of the car slipping and you may momentarily lose control of your car. 

2. Find out which tires are appropriate for  your car’s snow chains. The chains are usually  fitted on the tires of the driving wheels, which are those controlling the car’s traction. This will depend on the type  of car you drive, it is best to check the user’s manual of your car, which we recommend you to always carry in the glove compartment. In passenger cars they are usually placed on the front wheels; if you drive a propulsion car, they will be located on the rear axle;   if you drive a 4x4, it is best to put them on all four wheels. If this is not possible, you will have a better control of the car by positioning them in the front wheels.

3. The procedure is as follows: extend the chain evenly spaced and pass it through the inside of the wheel, checking that it moves smoothly, without snagging. Now lift  both ends to the top of the tire and attach  the hooks, closing the chain. Push the flexible ring into the wheel and, to finish,  pass the colored chain through the tensioning support, stretch and hook it. 

Now you only need to verify that it is still centered and suitably tensioned! You are ready to continue your adventure behind the wheel. Happy journey!