Tire Chains Recommendation for 2014 Subaru Outback

Updated 01/22/2018 | Published 01/20/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1102)

$74.68

Glacier Multi-Arm Tire Chain Tensioners for 16" to 19" Rims - Rubber - 1 Pair

(407)

$50.92

Question:

I have a 2014 Subaru Outback with 225 60R 17 tires that I want to get chains for traveling up a 1/2 mile long steep gravel dirt mountain road in North Carolina that is north facing and often ices up as the snow melts and refreezes. What do you recommend?

asked by: Nancy

Expert Reply:

I took a look at the owner's manual of your 2014 Subaru Outback and it stated that while you cannot use tire chains because there is not enough clearance, another traction device can be used so long as it is Class S compatible (which means they are smaller for more clearance) and put on the front wheels only. For your 225/60-17 tires there is a solution available, the Glacier Cable Snow Tire Chains # PW1038.

These are cables and not actual chains and are also Class S compatible so they will work for you. The Glacier Cables have a ladder pattern of case-hardened steel rollers and are put on by driving over them and then connecting, as you can see in the video I've linked which shows them being installed on an Outback similar to yours. It is also recommended you use the Glacier Multi-Arm Rubber Adjusters # PW105 to give you the tightest possible fit. I've attached a link to a video review of these adjusters for you to take a look at as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S