Snow Chain Recommendation for a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek with 18 Wheels

Question:

What do you recommend for: snow chain for 2018 subaru crosstrek 2.01 limited 18 inch tires. Do i need snow chains on both axles or just one?

asked by: Ed

Expert Reply:

When it comes to using snow chains on a vehicle the best place to look is in the owner's manual. I took a look at the owner's manual for a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek and it said not to use tire chains due to the lack of clearance between the tires and vehicle body. You will want to check your copy of the owner's manual to verify this.

If you do decide to use chains anyways and you have the standard 255/55-18 size tires then I highly recommend going with the Konig Premium Self-Tensioning Snow Tire Chains # TH02230K45 because they were created specifically for low tire clearance situations. If you check out the attached photo you can see how the chain actually only sits on top of the tire treads and doesn't wrap around the back side of the tire at all.

Not only do these chains feature a special design but they also utilize D-Links in a diamond pattern for the best traction. Once you know how to install the chains they really take no time to install and you don't have to get down on the ground to do so. I have attached another picture giving an example of how this is done for you to reference.

If price is a concern then we do have the Konig Standard Snow Tire Chains # TH01221104 which have the same D Links in a diamond pattern but these fit around the tire much regular chains so the clearance would be much more of concern going this route.

expert reply by: Jon G