What Does Class S Mean When Picking Out Snow Tire Chains

Published 09/08/2016

Question:

When buying snow chains for Toyota Tacoma what does S class compatible mean?

asked by: David G

Expert Reply:

Class S is the Society of Automotive Engineers' definition of the least amount of space that should be provided around the drive tires of any vehicle to accommodate the use of a winter traction device.

A Class S tire chain meets this standard and is designed for use on vehicles with restricted wheel well clearance and are typically smaller in design. Certain newer cars, vans and small trucks, especially those with large, aftermarket tires, may require the use of Class S chains.

Basically it means less than 37 mm of chain would be above the tire and 15 mm on the side of the tire.

expert reply by: Jameson C