Snow or Icy Conditions

Driving in deep snow may require the use of winter tires or the installation of snow chains on the tires. If winter tires are needed, be sure to select tires equivalent in size and type to the original equipment tires. Failure to do so may adversely affect the safety and handling of your vehicle. Furthermore, exceeding the speed limit, rapid acceleration, sudden braking, and sharp turns are potentially very dangerous practices.

When braking, use engine braking as much as possible. Sudden braking on snowy or icy roads may cause skidding. Keep a sufficient distance between the vehicle ahead and your vehicle. Also, apply the brake gently. Note that snow chains on the tire will provide greater driving force, but will not prevent lateral skidding.

✽ NOTICE

Snow chains are not permitted in all countries. Check the laws of your country before installing snow chains.

Winter Tires

If you install winter tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as the original tires. Install winter tires on all four wheels to balance the handling of your vehicle in any weather conditions. Be aware that the traction provided by winter tires on dry roads may not be as high as that of original equipment tires. Be careful when driving the vehicle, even if the road is clear. Consult your tire dealer for maximum speed recommendations.

WARNING! Winter Tire Size

Winter tires must be the same size and type as the standard tires. Otherwise, vehicle safety and handling may be adversely affected.

Do not install studded tires without first checking local, state, and municipal regulations regarding possible restrictions on their use.

Tire Chains

Since the sidewalls of radial tires are thinner, they may be damaged when installing some types of snow chains on them. Therefore, it is recommended to use winter tires instead of snow chains. Do not install snow chains on vehicles with aluminum wheels; snow chains may damage the wheels. If it is necessary to use snow chains, use wire-type chains less than 15 mm (0.59 in) thick. Damage to your vehicle caused by improper use of snow chains is not covered by your vehicle manufacturer's warranty.

Install snow chains on the front wheels only.

CAUTION

• Make sure the snow chains are the correct size and type for your tires. Improperly fitted snow chains may cause damage to the vehicle body and suspension and may not be covered by your vehicle manufacturer's warranty. Also, the snow chain connecting hooks may be damaged by contact with vehicle components, causing the snow chains to come off the tire. Make sure the snow chains meet SAE Class "S" certification.
• Always check the chain installation after driving approximately 0.5 to 1 km (0.3 to 0.6 mile) to ensure safe mounting. Tighten or reinstall the chains if they have loosened.
• If your vehicle is equipped with 225/45R18 tires, do not use snow chains; they may damage your vehicle (wheels, suspension, and body).

Chain Installation

When installing chains, follow the manufacturer's instructions and mount them as tightly as possible. Drive slowly with chains installed. If you hear the chains contacting the body or chassis, stop and tighten them. If they still make contact, decelerate until you stop. Remove the chains as soon as you start driving on a cleared road.

WARNING - Snow Chains

When installing snow chains, park the vehicle on a level surface away from traffic. Turn on the hazard warning flashers and place a warning triangle behind the vehicle, if equipped. Always move the shift lever to P (Park), apply the parking brake, and turn off the engine before installing snow chains.

WARNING - Tire Snow Chains

• Using chains may adversely affect vehicle handling.
• Do not exceed 30 km/h or the chain manufacturer's recommended speed limit, 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.

CAUTION

• Chains of incorrect size or improperly installed may damage the brake lines, suspension, body, and wheels of the vehicle.
• Stop and retighten the chains each time you hear them striking the vehicle.