Using Tire Chains on a 2008 Nissan Maxima

Question:

Can I put chains on my 2008 Nissan Maxima SEs tires? From an Internet search I understand there may be a clearance problem? Thanks.

asked by: David R

Expert Reply:

According to the owner's manual for your vehicle, Nissan doesn't recommend using tire chains on Maxima models equipped with 245/45-18 tires. If your vehicle uses that size, in order to use chains, Nissan recommends swapping your wheel/tire size to 225/55-17. If you swap to those size wheels/tires, I'd recommend the Konig # TH00023103.

Some vehicle manufacturers will endorse the usage of Class S rated chains when they're worried about clearance between the inside of the tires and braking/suspension components. A Class S rated chain won't extend any further than 15mm to the inside of the tire, offering greater clearance than non Class S rated chains. If your vehicle is equipped with the 245/45-18 wheel/tires, I'd recommend checking with your Nissan dealer to see if a Class S chain like the Thule # TH01221104 would be allowable.

Keep in mind, I cannot recommend anything that would contradict Nissan's advice regarding tire chain usage.

expert reply by: Mike L