Question:
I have a 2010 corolla s and want to know which chains will fit... if any. I will be deploying to Afghanistan and want to know that my wife will be able to drive safely in Germany during the winter. If you do have chains that will meet the requirements of the owners manual, I would also like to know which one you recommend. Thank you so much for your time!
asked by: Anthony
Expert Reply:
Typically (assuming that the manufacturer does not prohibit their use) if the vehicle has restricted clearance between the inside of the wheel and the drive train components, the manufacturer will specify a Class S tire chain, which offers a minimum of 15mm of clearance. You will need to read and abide by any advice or prohibitions mentioned in the owners manual regarding show chain use.
For ease of installation, I would recommend the Thule self-tensioning snow chain that is only 9mm thick for plenty of clearance. If the Corolla has 195/65-13 tires, use part # TH00023080. For 205/55-16 tires, use part # TH00023090. The 9mm of clearance should be sufficient for most situations. The Thule Standard Snow Tires you mentioned, part # TH01221090 offer 12mm of clearance, and would also work well for you, but they would not be as easy to install.
I have provided links to some FAQ articles about snow tire chains.
expert reply by: Mike L

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Products Referenced in This Question
Thule Self-Tensioning, Low-Profile Snow Tire Chains for Passenger Vehicles - CG9 - Size 080
Product Summary:
Chains - Diamond
Steel D-Link
Drape Over Tire - Make Connections
Rim Protection
No Quick Release
Product Specs:
Automatic
On Road Only
Class S Compatible
Thule Self-Tensioning, Low-Profile Snow Tire Chains for Passenger Vehicles - CG9 - Size 090
Product Summary:
Chains - Diamond
Steel D-Link
Drape Over Tire - Make Connections
Rim Protection
No Quick Release
Product Specs:
Automatic
On Road Only
Class S Compatible
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule Standard Snow Tire Chains for Passenger Vehicles - CB12 - Size 090
Product Summary:
Chains - Diamond
Steel D-Link
Drape Over Tire - Make Connections
No Rim Protection
No Quick Release
Product Specs:
Assisted
On and Off-Road Use
Class S Compatible
How to Determine if there is Clearance to Use Tire Chains on a 2009 Volvo S40 with 205/50-17 TIres
Troubleshooting Thule Snow Chain # TH01221090 Installation on a 2005 Scion tc