Recommended Tire Chain or Snow Sock Solution for 225/55-17 Tires on 2007 Subaru Outback Wagon

Question:

Can I use tire snow cables and snow socks on a 2007 Subaru Outback wagon? The owners manual says no chains. My tires are all season 225/55 R17 . For snow socks, what size would I need.? Thanks.

asked by: Maureen S

Helpful Expert Reply:

The snow socks would be the best solution, for your tire size, you'd use # TCH66. The socks have enough clearance above and to the inside to where they won't harm your vehicle.

The Glacier Cable Snow Chain that will fit your 225/55-17 tires are part # PW1038. Because the owner's manual specifically states not to use them, I can't recommend anything that would contradict that. The # PW1038 are Class S compatible, which extend from the top of the tire no more than 37mm and to the inside of the wheel no more than 15mm.

This is a true Catch 22 situation. There are roads out west that you won't be allowed on unless you use chains of some sort, but the owner's manual says it's not recommended. What we typically tell folks to do is to contact the (in your case) Subaru dealer and ask for clarification. Typically, they'll tell you to use the lowest profile cable product you can get and only to use it when absolutely necessary. If you decide to use cable chains, I'd recommend using the # PW100 adjusters as well.