Snow Chain Use on 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek with P225/55R17 Tires

Question:

I have a 2014 Subaru Crosstrex with P225/55 R17 tires. I like the self adjusting chains for $399 from Thule, will they work on my car as my book says no chains.

asked by: Chuck

Expert Reply:

When it comes to using tire chains, the auto maker gets to have the final word. On page 8-11 of the online owner's manual Subaru indicates that standard tire chains cannot be used due to limited clearance between the tires and the vehicle body, but that special low-profile S-Class traction devices CAN be used but only on the FRONT tires.

Thule's K-Summit Premium Self-Tensioning Snow Tire Chains # TH02230K44 are S-Class rated and will fit your P225/55R17 size tires. These advanced self-tensioning and self-aligning chains will be much easier to use than manual cable types and they will not scratch your rims since they rest on the tire treads only.

These chains attach to wheel lug nuts that are the 17mm and 19mm sizes, but we have adapter # TH1500052581 for 22mm lugs. These are not needed if your lugs are 17mm or 19mm.

expert reply by: Adam R