Fit of Thule Tire Chains TH00023095 on 225/45-17 Tires on 2007 Volkswagen GTI  

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Expert Reply:

All tire chains compatible with the 225/45-17 size tires on your 2007 Volkswagen GTI are shown on the linked page. Among these are the Thule Self-Tensioning Low-Profile Snow Tire Chains # TH00023095 that you referenced.

These particular Thule chains are rated S Class chains, meaning they work on vehicles like your GTI that have limited wheel well clearance. They offer an excellent balance of price and performance. They cost more than the cheapest chains available but their user-friendly features such as automatic tensioning and self-centering make them among the best values.

I can tell you first hand that tire chains that are challenging to put on will tend to sit in your trunk, where they do you no good. If you actually intend to use these chains they will actually help you. Basic cable types are fine for a one-time use or to meet a legal requirement of having chains in the car if needed, but if you are for example a regular skier who will be driving to the slopes once or twice a month you will be glad you invested just a bit more to get the Thule chains. Thule also offers an unprecedented 5-year warranty.

I urge you to do some practice installations in the relative comfort of your garage or driveway. Don't wait until you're out in the snow to try these for the first time. Although they are indeed fairly simple to install you will be glad that you did a few dry runs.

Tire chain use is always subject to the approval of the vehicle manufacturer, in this instance Volkswagen. Check your owner's manual index under Tires for information regarding chain use. Some cars can use chains only on one axle, while some can use them on both, which is ideal. Chains on both axles not only improve your traction for accelerating, but also for steering and braking.

The two linked articles may be of interest to you.

expert reply by: Adam R

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