How to fit snow chains - a comprehensive guide to snow tyre chains

It’s winter, and you’re already dreaming of mountains and a snowy 4WD adventure. However, where ice and snow are involved it’s important to explore safely. While advanced 4WDs like the Mitsubishi Outlander feature Snow Mode to enhance stability on slippery roads, snow chains remain essential to keep traction in snowy and icy areas.

What are snow chains?

Snow chains are metal chains that stretch over the tread of your 4WD tyre in a criss-cross pattern, to provide extra traction in snow and ice. While 4WDs aren’t always legally required to use snow chains, it’s still best not to drive through snowy or icy areas without them. Otherwise you risk your 4WD losing traction, and sliding out of control.

In this article, we’ll explain how to choose and install snow chains, so you’re ready to go ahead of time when you hit the snowfields or mountains.

Choosing the right snow chains for your 4WD

1. Check your 4WD’s manufacturer specifications for snow chain restrictions

Check your owner’s manual to make sure your 4WD can fit any size of chain. Some vehicles only fit chains to front or rear tyres, and some only have enough space between the back of the tyre and suspension for certain thicknesses of snow chains.

2. Find the right snow chains for your tyre size

Check your tyre size by looking at the sidewall of your tyre. You’ll find a measurement indicating the size of your tyre. For example, the tyre of a SUV 4WD like the Outlander might have a measurement such as 215/60R16. Look for a snow chain that is compatible with your tyre size.

3. Choose your tyre chain type and thickness

Once you’ve found snow chains that fit your tyres and vehicle, you may still find yourself with a range of options. Some factors to consider when making your final choice are:

  • Thickness: Thicker chains are generally safer, especially for off-road use.
  • Link size and shape: Large links can provide the best traction in snow. Links should also be correctly shaped for icy environments.
  • Installation: Some chains have self-tensioning quick locks that make them easier to install, though these are often thinner than those that require manual tensioning. 

How to put on snow chains

Here’s the rundown of how to install snow chains on your 4WD. It’s important to remember that different brands of snow chains may be a little different to install, so read the instructions included with the chains you purchase for any unique features.

What you’ll need:
  • Snow chains: Keep them in an accessible place to make installation quicker
  • Gloves: Snow gloves work best to protect your hands from the conditions
  • A safe place to install: Many national parks near snowy areas in Australia will have designated bays to install snow chains. Your car should be safely in park with the brake on before you begin.
Installing the chains:
  1. Place the snow chains on the ground near the front of the tyre. If there are V-bar links, make sure these are pointing up to contact the road surface. Manual tensioners should be facing towards the outside of the wheel for easy access.
  2. Drape the chains over your tyre, centring them as much as possible with the middle of your tyre tread. There should be loose parts of the chain now hanging back towards the rear of your 4WD.
  3. Gently roll the car forward onto the chains, stopping the middle. This will reveal the snow chain fasteners.
  4. Hook the fasteners together to secure the snow chain on the tyre.
  5. If your snow chains have manual tensioners, tension them now. Tighten your chains until you can no longer wiggle them around on your tyre by hand.
  6. Drive a short distance to allow your chains to settle, testing your brakes and steering to make sure the chains are properly aligned.
  7. Check the tension a second time, and adjust the alignment if necessary. If the chain has loosened up, tension it correctly.

You’re ready to drive! 

How to drive your 4WD with snow chains on

When driving with snow chains, slow and steady is key. Here are our top tips:

  • Drive slowly: Avoid exceeding speeds of 50km/hr, and if conditions are poor, even less.
  • Brake gradually: Sudden braking with snow chains can cause your wheel to lock, so make sure to brake gradually.
  • Listen for slapping or grating: Slapping or metal-on-metal grating sounds can indicate that your chains may have broken or come loose, so stop and check as soon as possible.
  • Drive for poor conditions: Even with snow chains, general safe driving for poor conditions remains important. Leave extra distance between yourself and other cars, use fog lights, and defog your windscreen regularly.

Other snow chain questions answered

When do I take my snow chains off?

Remove your snow chains as soon as the road is free from snow or ice. Driving with snow chains on dry pavement can do substantial damage to both your tyres and the road itself.

How do I remove snow chains?

To remove your snow chains, start by disconnecting the chains from the inside wheel. Pull the chains away from your tyre, laying them as flat as you can. Finally, drive forward slowly until the tyres have cleared the chains.

What kind of vehicles are suitable for driving in snow?

Though snow chains help considerably with driving in snow or ice, not all vehicles cope as well in these conditions. Driving in snow is safer if you’re in a vehicle with good ground clearance, and that can deliver power to all four wheels as a 4WD or AWD (all-wheel drive). If you’re looking for the right option to keep you safe in harsh conditions, find a dealer and experience a test drive for yourself.

Which wheels do you fit snow chains to on a 4WD or AWD?

Generally, you should fit your snow chains to the front wheels of a 4WD or AWD. However, this can vary, so check the manufacturer specifications of your vehicle to make sure.