How Many Tires Should Snow Chains Be Installed On?
2 Answers
Snow chains need to be installed on all four tires for relatively better stability. If they are only installed on two tires, it can easily lead to tail sliding, compromising driving safety. Snow chains should not be installed on emergency or spare tires, as these differ from the car's full-size tires. Snow chains are generally designed for full-size tires, and using them on spare tires can accelerate tire wear. Below is an introduction to the functions of car tires: 1. Support the entire weight of the vehicle, bear the load of the car, and transmit forces and moments in other directions. 2. Transmit traction and braking torque to ensure good adhesion between the wheels and the road, improving the car's power, braking, and off-road capabilities; work together with the car's suspension to mitigate shocks during driving and dampen resulting vibrations. 3. Prevent severe vibrations and premature damage to car components, adapt to the vehicle's high-speed performance, reduce driving noise, and ensure driving safety, handling stability, comfort, and fuel economy.
Every time I drive in snowy conditions, I consider how many snow chains to install. From a safety perspective, it's best to chain all the drive wheels. For example, if I'm driving a front-wheel-drive car, I chain the front two tires; if it's a rear-wheel-drive car, I chain the rear two. But experience has taught me that in areas with deep snow or many steep slopes, I simply chain all four tires to increase overall traction. This helps prevent the vehicle from losing control during turns or braking and reduces the risk of skidding. A relative of mine had an accident when they only chained the drive wheels and the car skidded and rolled on ice. So, I recommend not skimping on this expense—safety is the most important thing. Also, regularly check that the chains are secure to avoid them coming loose mid-journey.
