Tire Chains Versus Tire Cables for a 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon

Updated 11/06/2017 | Published 11/05/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - Square Link - Assisted Tensioning - 1 Pair

(745)

$160.33

Glacier Cable Tire Chains - Ladder Pattern - Roller Links - Manual Tensioning - 1 Pair

(1115)

$64.73

Glacier Cable Tire Chains - Ladder Pattern - Roller Links - Manual Tensioning - 1 Pair

(1115)

$65.88

Question:

Will this fit 2018 Subaru Outback 2.5 Limited? Does it require more clearance than PW1046? The Subaru comes with 225 60/18 but I am considering changing tires and wheels to 225 65/17 and these chains say they will work for both sizes, whereas if I went for the cables I will need both PW1046 and PW1042.

asked by: Dimitre

Expert Reply:

According to the owner's manual for your 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon, tire chains are not permitted for use on your vehicle. However, we certainly understand certain states and conditions require them therefore the choice to use them will rely solely on the owner of the vehicle.

As long as you have either of the standard tire sizes (225/60-18 or 225/65-17) that came on the 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon from factory, then yes the Titan Chain Alloy Snow Tire Chains part # TC1555 will fit the tires. The Titan Chain Alloy Snow Tire Chains have a link thickness of 3.7 mm and the Glacier Cable Snow Tire Chains part # PW1046 have a link thickness of 8.1 mm. Therefore, no the Glacier Cable Snow Tire Chains will actually require more clearance than the Titan Chain Alloy Snow Tire Chains.

The Titan Chain Alloy Snow Tire Chains part # TC1555 will fit both 225/60-18 and 225/65-17 tires but for the Glacier Cable Snow Tire Chains you will want part # PW1046 for 225/65-18 tires or part # PW1042 for 225/65-17 tires.

I have attached a review video of each traction device for you to check out.