Tire Chains for a 2013 Mini Cooper with 195/55-16 Tires

Question:

I have a 2013 Mini Cooper base model with 195/55/16 tires and I need chains. The owners manual says not to use chains, the dealer told me to use wire or cable chains only because of the low clearance.

asked by: Aimee

Helpful Expert Reply:

The old tire chain paradox: owners manual says no chains but in some places the law requires chains. It is related to Reno's Law which states that if chains are required by law then of course the vehicle owners manual says not to use chains.

It happens a lot and I know exactly the type of chains you need. The good news is that all of the cables and chains for a 2013 Mini Cooper with 195/55-16 tires are Class S compatible which means they require very little clearance. I have linked the options to the right.

If you will be using the chain infrequently or just need to carry them by law then I recommend going with cables # PW1030 with rubber adjusters # PW100. They are inexpensive, have very low clearance requirements, and are DOT approved. I have included a link to a video review of you.

For more frequent use or in places where you must have chains then the ones you selected from Thule, # TH2004205080, are a good choice. They only stick out 9mm from the tire surface and sidewalls. The chains provide better traction than cables.

I have included a link to our FAQ article on tire chains for you as well.