Can Snow Chains Be Used Long-Term?
2 Answers
Snow chains cannot be used long-term. They are designed for winter driving on muddy, snowy, or icy roads to provide anti-slip traction. The steel material used in snow chains is not highly durable, and prolonged use leads to rapid wear and tear, making them unsuitable for long-term use. Types of Snow Chains: Iron Snow Chains: The most common type, these are low-cost but cause the most damage to tires. Installation is relatively difficult, and they produce significant noise. Nylon/TPU Snow Chains: Easy to install—simply lay them flat on the ground, drive the vehicle onto them, and secure them around the drive wheels. Since polyurethane is a type of plastic, it becomes brittle and stiff in low temperatures, making these chains prone to breakage and less durable. Rubber Snow Chains: Made from high-elasticity, wear-resistant rubber similar to car tires, these chains offer advantages such as cold resistance, durability, good elasticity, and strong friction. They cause minimal damage to tires but are more expensive. Except in extremely cold regions where snow chains are used frequently, their usage duration is generally short in other areas. If installed correctly, snow chains do not cause significant damage to tires.
Snow chains are not designed for long-term use. If you keep them installed on your tires while driving, the chains can wear down the tire surface, accelerate rubber aging, and even cut into the tire, increasing the risk of a blowout. Prolonged use can also damage the vehicle's rims and suspension system, as the chains generate significant vibration and impact during driving—especially on dry roads, where they are more prone to rusting or breaking, raising the likelihood of accidents. The chains themselves have a short lifespan and will wear out after just a few hundred kilometers of continuous use, requiring replacement. For safety, I recommend installing them only temporarily on snowy or icy roads, keeping your speed low, and removing them immediately once conditions improve. Consider switching to more durable winter tires or all-season tires for better performance. When storing, keep them clean and dry to prevent rust and extend their service life.
