Front-mounted snow chain and chain of latest generation
Assocatene sets out 5 rules for quick and easy fitting of chains for safe travel.
- All vehicles can fit snow chains. You just have to choose the right chain. As far as compatibility with your car is concerned, you should check your car's owner's manual, as there are chains with different link sections from 7 to 12mm that are suitable for different types of vehicle (hatchbacks, sports cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles).
- Check the size of your tyres and make sure that the chains you want to purchase or already have on hand are the correct size for your tyres.
- Before embarking on a journey where chains are supposed to be fitted, read the instructions and do some trial fitting so that you are ready when needed.
- On which wheels should snow chains be fitted? Always fit chains on the drive wheels. If your car/SUV has four-wheel drive, it is important to consult the owner's manual to find out on which axle the pair of chains should be fitted; in the absence of specific instructions, it is advisable to fit them on the front axle so as to guarantee the car's directionality.
- Driving with chains. The Highway Code imposes a speed limit of 50km/h with chains fitted. An approved chain covers more than 120 km on dry asphalt roads without breaking. If the chains are type-approved, they can also be kept fitted for long stretches of non-snowy road (e.g. tunnels) without the risk of breaking.
The Assocatene Association has prepared a video showing how to easily fit snow chains on your car: