Does the vehicle have sufficient clearance to fit snow chains?
One of the main problem area of the requirement to fit snow chains is the increasing number of vehicles where there is insufficient clearance to fit snow chains. These vehicles include front wheel drive, rear wheel drive and all wheel drive vehicles. Drivers should consult the vehicle owners manual or ask their vehicle dealer about the maximum tyre size the vehicle manufacturer authorizes for snow chains. There may be liability and safety issues if snow chains are fitted to tyre and wheel combinations that are not approved by the vehicle manufacturer. The issue is usually the clearance between the inner part of the tyre and the suspension and or steering components rather than the clearance between the tyre and the body or the tyre and the mudguard. The fitments of wider, lower profile tyres by the vehicle manufactures are increasing and many of these wider tyre and larger wheel diameters do not allow any snow chains to be fitted. High performance, high speed rated tyres and cold winte
