On Which Wheels Should Snow Chains Be Installed on Snow-Covered Roads?
3 Answers
On snow-covered roads, snow chains should be installed on the drive wheels. Below are precautions for driving in snowy and icy weather: 1. Focus on seasonal vehicle maintenance: Conduct thorough seasonal maintenance on the vehicle, including comprehensive inspections and servicing of the braking, steering systems, as well as air, water, and oil pipelines. Equip the vehicle with necessary antifreeze devices and add engine oil and gear oil as specified. If regular water has been added to the antifreeze during routine maintenance, the antifreeze must be replaced. Ensure the coolant is topped up; otherwise, the engine may overheat, leading to damage. Follow the product instructions strictly when replacing antifreeze, ensuring all water is drained, air is fully expelled to prevent "airlock," and the system is adequately filled. After starting the engine, observe and top up as needed. Regular checks and top-ups are essential. 2. Pay attention to tire inspection: In cold winter temperatures, rubber becomes harder and more brittle. Proper tire pressure is crucial for tire lifespan and driving safety. Underinflation increases sidewall flexing, making them prone to cracking in low temperatures, while overinflation reduces traction. Ensure all tires are evenly inflated. Consider switching to winter tires during the colder months. 3. Install snow chains in snowy conditions: Snow chains should be installed before setting out, not after encountering icy roads, as stopping to install them last-minute is more troublesome and less safe. Always park in a safe area before installing or removing chains. On busy roads, set up necessary traffic warning signs. After installation, drive at speeds generally not exceeding 50 km/h and avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration. Carrying anti-slip tools like shovels or picks is also advisable. 4. Clear window fog promptly: In winter, temperature differences between inside and outside the car cause window condensation. Using the heater to defog while slightly opening the front windows is highly effective. Also, ensure the rear window is defogged for better visibility and safer reversing.
I've driven quite a bit on snow and ice, and the most important thing is to install snow chains on the drive wheels. For example, most regular family cars are front-wheel drive, so the chains go on the front wheels; if it's a rear-wheel-drive pickup or sports car, then they need to be installed on the rear wheels; for four-wheel-drive vehicles, it's best to install them on all four wheels. When installing, the chains shouldn't be too tight or too loose—leave about a gap the width of your index finger. After installation, remember to drive slowly for a short distance and then get out to check, as sometimes they can loosen while driving. Never exceed 50 kilometers per hour, or the chains could snap, which is dangerous. Once the snow and ice melt, remove the chains immediately to avoid damaging the tires and the road surface.
As a northerner, I have to deal with icy roads every year. Snow chains must be installed on the drive wheels - getting this wrong can lead to serious trouble. For regular front-wheel-drive vehicles, install them on the front wheels; for rear-wheel-drive cars, mount them on the rear wheels. Never cut corners by only installing on one side. Experienced drivers here always keep a torque wrench handy, as snow chains need repeated tension adjustments after installation. Don't assume you're completely safe once they're on - keep your speed below 40 km/h, as chains can slip during emergency braking. I recommend keeping a snow shovel in your trunk too, just in case you get stuck and need to dig yourself out.
