Before You Leave Home
Anyone who has tried to fit snow chains for the first time on the side of an icy road will tell the same story. It is cold, the traffic is spraying slush everywhere, and the instructions suddenly make no sense. The smart move is to practise at home on a dry day.
Lay the chains out in the driveway and familiarise yourself with how they are meant to sit over the tyre. Most modern chains are fairly intuitive, but every brand is slightly different. A quick trial run builds confidence and reveals whether anything is missing or twisted.
It is also worth checking the vehicle handbook. Some cars, particularly those with limited wheel clearance, specify certain types of chains or even prohibit them on particular wheel sizes. Ignoring that advice can lead to damage to brake lines, suspension components, or guards.
When And Where To Fit Snow Chains
Snow chains should only be fitted when there is actual snow or ice on the road. Driving on bare bitumen with chains will wear them out quickly and can damage the road surface, not to mention create an unpleasant racket from inside the cabin.
Look for a safe, flat area well clear of traffic before starting. Many alpine roads have designated chain fitting bays. If none are available, pull as far off the road as possible, switch on hazard lights, and apply the handbrake firmly.
On most front wheel drive vehicles, chains go on the front tyres. On rear wheel drive vehicles, they fit to the rear. For all wheel drive or four wheel drive vehicles, the owner’s manual will specify the correct axle. Some systems require chains on all four wheels, though that is less common.
While preparing for winter driving, it is also smart to consider other safety essentials such as high visibility gloves, a torch, and a waterproof jacket. Fitting chains is much easier when hands are warm and visible.
Step-By-Step Fitting Guide
Once parked safely, take the chains out of their bag and lay them flat on the ground. Make sure there are no twists or tangles. The smooth side of the hooks should face the tyre, with any sharp edges pointing away from the rubber.
Drape the chain evenly over the top of the tyre, allowing it to fall down the front and back. Some modern chains use a hoop that sits behind the wheel, which is fed around the back of the tyre first. In either case, aim for an even spread across the tread.
Next, connect the inner fastening behind the tyre. This is usually the trickiest part because visibility is limited. It often helps to kneel down and reach behind the wheel, feeling for the connection point rather than trying to see it.
With the inner section secured, connect the outer fastener on the face of the wheel. The chain should now sit loosely around the tyre. At this stage, it will not look perfectly centred, and that is normal.
If the instructions recommend it, move the vehicle forward about half a metre to allow the chain to settle into place. Then recheck the alignment and prepare to tension it.
Tightening And Checking
Proper tension is critical. Chains that are too loose can slap against the wheel arch or suspension, causing damage. Chains that are too tight may strain the links unnecessarily.
Most modern sets include a built in tensioning system, such as a ratchet or elastic adjuster. Follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully and ensure the chain sits snugly against the tyre tread all the way around.
After fitting both chains on the drive axle, drive forward slowly for about 100 to 200 metres, then stop in a safe place and recheck the tension. It is common for chains to settle slightly once they have rotated a few times.
This is also a good moment to give the rest of the tyres a quick inspection. Winter travel places extra demands on tyre condition, so adequate tread depth and correct pressure are essential.
Driving With Snow Chains
Once fitted correctly, snow chains dramatically improve traction on snow and ice. That does not mean the vehicle suddenly handles like it is on dry asphalt. Smooth, gentle inputs are still the rule.
Acceleration should be gradual, steering movements steady, and braking progressive. Sudden throttle or harsh braking can still cause loss of control, even with chains fitted.
Speed should generally be kept below 40 to 50 km/h, or as recommended by the chain manufacturer. Higher speeds increase wear and the risk of chain failure.
Drivers will notice additional vibration and noise through the cabin. That is normal, to a point. Loud clunking or rhythmic banging suggests a loose or misfitted chain, and the vehicle should be stopped immediately to inspect it.
As soon as the road clears and consistent bare pavement appears, remove the chains. Continuing to drive on dry surfaces will shorten their lifespan and may damage both the chains and the tyres.
Fitting snow chains is not glamorous, and it is rarely comfortable, but it is one of those skills that pays off instantly when conditions turn rough. With the right preparation, a bit of practice, and careful driving, they turn a nerve wracking climb into a controlled, confident journey.
