Installing snow tires and chains

DO−IT−YOURSELF MAINTENANCE / Engine and Chassis / Installing snow tires and chains

WHEN TO USE SNOW TIRES ORCHAINS

Snow tires or chains are recommendedwhen driving on snow or ice.On wet or dry roads, conventional tiresprovide better traction than snow tires.

SNOW TIRE SELECTION

If you need snow tires, select tires ofthe same size, construction and loadcapacity as the originally installed tires.Do not use tires other than those mentionedabove. Do not install studded tireswithout first checking local regulations forpossible restrictions.

CAUTION

Do not use snow tires other than themanufacturer’s recommended size, asthis may cause dangerous handlingcharacteristics resulting in loss ofcontrol. Otherwise, an accident mayoccur resulting in death or seriousinjuries.

SNOW TIRE INSTALLATION

Snow tires should be installed on allwheels.

Installing snow tires on the front wheelsonly can lead to an excessive differencein road grip capability between the frontand rear tires which could cause loss ofvehicle control.

When storing removed tires, you shouldstore them in a cool dry place.Mark the direction of rotation and be sureto install them in the same direction whenreplacing.

CAUTION

Do not drive with the snow tiresincorrectly inflated.

Never drive over 120 km/h (75 mph)with any type of snow tires.

TIRE CHAIN SELECTION

Regulations regarding the use of tirechains vary according to location ortype of road, so always check local regulationsbefore installing chains.

Use SAE Class “S” type radial tire chains,with the exception of radial cable chainsor V−bar type chains.

CHAIN INSTALLATION

Install the chains on the front tires astightly as possible. Do not use tirechains on the rear tires. Retightenchains after driving 0.5 − 1.0 km (1/4 −1/2 mile).

When installing chains on your tires, carefullyfollow the instructions of the chainmanufacturer.

If wheel covers are used, they will bescratched by the chain band, so removethe covers before putting on the chains.

CAUTION

• Do not exceed 50 km/h (30 mph) orthe chain manufacturer’s recommendedspeed limit, whichever islower.
• Drive carefully avoiding bumps,holes, and sharp turns, which maycause the vehicle to bounce.
• Avoid sharp turns or locked−wheelbraking, as use of chains may adverselyaffect vehicle handling.
• When driving with chains installed,be sure to drive carefully. Slowdown before entering curves toavoid losing control of the vehicle.Otherwise an accident may occur.

NOTICE

Do not attempt to use a tire chain onthe compact spare tire, as it may resultin damage to the vehicle as wellas the tire.