Tire Chain Recommendation for 2012 Volkswagen Jetta for Use on Mountain Roads  

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Your first step when considering tire chains on any vehicle is a check of the owner's manual for any guidance or restrictions regarding their use. Many passenger cars are limited to using special low-profile S-Class chains that do not require too much wheel well clearance. Before purchasing any tire chain check your vehicle's manual carefully and if in doubt speak to your local dealership.

The key to selecting suitable tire chains is to match the chain to your tire size. A 2012 Volkswagen Jetta could have any of three stock tire sizes, either 195/65-15, 205/55-16 or 225/45-17. You can use the link provided to select the tire size you have to then see chains that will fit. Tire size is indicated on the tire's sidewall. Please note that all chains will fit multiple tire sizes. On each chain product page we list the compatible tire sizes to allow you to be certain of compatibility.

All tire chains require reduced driving speeds. There is no tire chain that allows full-speed driving. Typically chains are rated for 30-35 mph maximum. You might think of it in these terms: if conditions are bad enough to justify chains then they are also bad enough to justify reduced speed.

Tire chains come in a variety of types and with varying features. Some are on-road only while others can be used on- and off-road. Some use a cable, such as the Glacier # PW1030, while others use actual chains for traction, like the Konig # TH04115080. They also differ substantially in how easy they are to install. Having recently completed a training session on tire chains here at etrailer I can tell you first hand that some chains are MUCH easier to get on and off the tires than others. The point is that if you do actually really need chains the ones that are sufficiently easy to put on will actually get used and actually help you. Chains that sit in your trunk because they are a pain to put on will do you no good at all. So, if you really expect to use them, consider spending more to get features like automatic tensioning. I have linked two articles on tire chains that will give you lots of background on the types and included features available.

Unless otherwise noted in your owner's manual chains should be placed on the drive wheels as a first priority. Again, unless prohibited by the auto maker, using two sets to equip all 4 wheels will deliver the most stable handling since all wheels will have the same degree of grip. This will help both forward traction and steering and braking performance.

expert reply by: Adam R

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