Tire Chains Suitable for Use on 2013 Ford Flex and 2014 Mazda 6

Question:

Wanted to ask your advice , need two sets of occasional use snow chains, when we take the drive up to the mountains...First one is for a 2013 ford flex, tire size 25545r20. Second is for a 2014 mazda 6, tire size 22545r19. Thank you

asked by: Lewis K

Expert Reply:

Your first step 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 two vehicles' manuals carefully and if in doubt speak to your local dealerships.

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, like the Titan # TC2029 that you referenced, 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 and off the tires than others. The point is that if you do actually really need chains the ones that are sufficiently 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.

One link to your right will show you all chain options for the 2013 Flex's 255/45-20 tires.

The other link will show you the chains to fit the 2014 Mazda 6's 225/45-19 size tires. There are fewer options for the Mazda but two are very cost-effective: cable type # PW1038 and Square Link-type # TH2004705235 from Konig. Along with these are the advanced K-Summit D-Link chains from Thule, part # TH02230K44, which include features that make these among the easiest to use chains available.

All tire chains require reduced driving speeds; no chain allows normal-speed highway driving. Most chains have a speed rating of 30-35 mph maximum. If road conditions merit using tire chains then they also merit reduced speed.