How to Put Chains on Tires

Mar 15, 2015

Many people may not be aware of how to put tire chains on, but in some areas they’re a necessity. Do you know how and when to put chains on your tires? Your Kia dealer can give you instructions regarding tire chains if you need more information.

Getting Things Ready

Chains should be placed on the drive wheels and should always be tested before you actually need them. When you buy chains for your tires, you should always test them in a snowy parking lot to make sure they are the appropriate size, and that you know how to drive with them on.

You’ll want to start by getting the tire chains ready. Do this off to the side of the road or in a parking lot, and don’t wait until the last minute. To do this, you’ll want to lay the chains out and remove any kinks. Place the chains next to the tire they belong on to avoid any confusion as you mount them. Additionally, ensure that the car’s parking brake is on before you begin putting the chains on.

Time to Start Putting Them On

Now it’s time to start fitting the chains to the tire. Hold the chains by the top and place them over the tire. As you fit the chains over the tire, confirm that the chains that run from side to side are straight. Note that if your chains have rings on them, the chains should be installed with the rings on the inside of the tire. The rings should rest on the bottom of the tire near the ground as you place the chain around the tire.

Once you’ve done this for both tires (or all four if your vehicle requires it), then you will want to get in the car, remove the parking brake, and drive forward just enough to expose the uncovered portion of the tire. Secure the parking brake once again.

Now it’s time to start connecting the chains together. Make sure you start at the portion of the tire that faces in toward the car, and connect the J-hooks. Repeat this process for the outer portion of the tire. If the chains have a closer link, use this to tighten the chains.

Next, check to make sure the inner and outer connections of the chain are approximately in line with each other. You also need to check to make sure that the inner and outer parts of the chain are roughly about the same tightness. Repeat this process for the rest of the tires.

At this point, get in the car and drive about a quarter mile. Now tighten them again. Once this is done, you’re ready to drive on the chains.

Snowy roads may require tire chains, but a safe car is important, too. Visit Bill Barth Kia to see winter-ready cars for sale in Bismarck, ND.