Best Tire Chains for Use on 2009 Acura TL Front-Wheel-Drive with 245/50-17 Tires

Question:

I have a 2009 Acura TL with front wheel drive and 245/50-17 tires. Im looking at the Glacier square link snow chains. Do you consider that to be a reasonable choice? By just eyeballing the wheel wells, there doesnt seem to be a clearance issue. Is there anything I might need in addition to the chains themselves? Thanks.

asked by: Will E

Expert Reply:

Step 1 when considering tire chains on any vehicle is a check of the owner's manual for any guidance or restrictions regarding their use. Many passenger cars are limited to using special low-profile S-Class chains that do not require too much wheel well clearance. Before purchasing any tire chain check your manual carefully and if in doubt speak to your local Acura dealership.

Tire chains come in a variety of types and with varying features. Some are on-road only while others can be used on- and off-road. Some use a cable while others use actual chains for traction. They also differ substantially in how easy they are to install. Having recently completed a training session on tire chains here at etrailer I can tell you first hand that some chains are MUCH easier to get on the tires than others. The point is that if you do actually really need chains the ones that are easy to put on will actually get used and actually help you. Chains that sit in your trunk because they were a pain to put on that first time will do you no good at all. So, if you really expect to use them, consider spending more to get features like automatic tensioning. I have linked two articles on tire chains that will give you lots of background on the types and included features available.

Let's say your manual indicates you are required to use S-Class chains. For an easier installation you might consider the Konig Self-Tensioning D-Link chains # TH02230K44. These chains feature rim protection, automatic tensioning and a quick-release system for fast removal of the chains.

Generally the drive wheels are the first priority for chains. In your case of a front-wheel-drive vehicle chains on the front wheels will provide both improved forward traction and also better braking and steering performance. It is fine to put chains on all four tires, provided the auto maker says so, but one set on the front drive wheels will give you most of the benefits.

expert reply by: Adam R