Tire Chain Solution for 2013 Subaru Impreza with 205/50-17 Tire Size

Published 12/14/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Konig Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - Square Link - Self Tensioning - 1 Pair

(765)

$198.06

Konig Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - Square Link - Assisted Tensioning - 1 Pair

(275)

$109.03

Question:

I wanted to double check the tires chains or cables to use on a 2013 Suburu Impreza Sport Limited with 205 50 R17 tires. Is the Thule CG9 Size 080 likely to work well with them. Of course Suburu says not to use chains in their manual. Very little clearance and they say chains may damage CV joints or transmission on the all wheel drive car. If chains are not the best choice, what do you recommend. Will be driving mostly in Western Washington state with trip occasionally to Northern California and maybe eastern Washington. Mountain Passes and occasional snow ice are biggest issues. Or just go with Snow tires and separate wheels.?? I have all season Michelin Premier A/S tires but they will not be good in slick ice and deep snow-ice slush etc. Any thoughts??

asked by: Wayne A

Helpful Expert Reply:

For some areas of the country you have to have a set of tire chains with you otherwise you won't be allowed to travel there. Where it gets interesting is when manufacturers say you can't use chains on the vehicle but you are in an area that does require them. What we often have to recommend is to find a Subaru dealer (in your case) in the area where chains are often recommended and ask what they suggest that will allow you to be legal and not damage the vehicle. Some dealers have solutions or will be more lenient with the tire chain stipulations. Snow tires are amazing solutions but they still may not be enough for the DOT.

That being said Class S chains do offer better clearance but the chains you referenced you aren't a fit for your tire size. Instead you would want the part # TH01221090 which are a fit and are Class S compatible.

expert reply by: Jameson C