Driving Your Vehicle

Tire Chains

~2min read

Because the sidewalls of radial tires are thinner than those of other tire types, they may be damaged when some types of tire chains are installed on them.

For this reason, it is recommended to use winter tires instead of snow chains. Do not install snow chains on vehicles with aluminum wheels; if unavoidable, use wire-type chains. If it is necessary to use snow chains, use genuine HYUNDAI parts and install the snow chains only after reading the instructions supplied with the snow chains.

Damage to your vehicle caused by improper use of snow chains is not covered by your vehicle manufacturer's warranty.

WARNING

Using traction chains may adversely affect vehicle handling:

  • Drive at a speed of less than 30 km/h or the speed limit recommended by the chain manufacturer, whichever is lower.
  • Drive carefully and avoid bumps, potholes, sharp curves, and other road hazards, which may cause the vehicle to bounce.
  • Avoid sharp turns or braking that locks the wheels.

✽ NOTICE

  • Install snow chains on the front wheels of all-wheel drive vehicles, or on all four wheels of all-wheel drive vehicles. Note that installing snow chains on the tires will provide greater driving force but will not prevent side skidding.
  • Do not install studded tires without first checking local, state, and municipal regulations regarding possible restrictions on their use.

Chain Installation

When installing snow chains, follow the manufacturer's instructions and install them as tightly as possible. Drive slowly (below 30 km/h) with the chains installed. If you hear the chains contacting the body or chassis, stop and retighten them. If they still contact, reduce speed until the noise stops. Remove the chains as soon as you drive on cleared road.

When installing snow chains, park the vehicle on a level surface away from other vehicles. Turn on the hazard warning flashers and place the warning triangle behind the vehicle (if equipped).

Always place the vehicle in P (Park), apply the parking brake, and turn off the engine before installing snow chains.

CAUTION

When using tire chains:

  • Chains of incorrect size or improperly installed chains can damage the engine, brake lines, suspension, body and wheels.
  • Use SAE class "S" or wire chains.
  • If you hear noise caused by the chains contacting the body, retighten the chains to prevent contact with the vehicle body.
  • To prevent body damage, retighten the chains after driving 0.3–0.6 mile (0.5–1.0 km).
  • Do not use snow chains on vehicles with aluminum wheels. If unavoidable, use wire-type chains.
  • Use wire chains less than 0.59 in (15 mm) wide to prevent damage to the chain connection.

Test yourself

A quick Hyundai Tucson LM quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.