Can Tire Chains be Used on Bare Pavement

Published 02/22/2018

Question:

How far can you drive with tire chains on clean asphalt? We are staying at a condo with garage 8 miles from chain up area and I am wondering if I can install the chains and drive on clean pavement 8 miles to the chain up area or if I should not use the chains on the cleared pavement and drive to the chain up area and install the chains there. Thank you.

asked by: Trent

Expert Reply:

I highly recommend waiting to install your tire chains until right before entering snow covered roads where they are needed. Driving on bare pavement with tire chains, even if staying at low speeds, can greatly reduce the chains' lifespan by prematurely wearing them down. Using chains on bare pavement can also cause damage to the road itself. Also keep in mind that the wear from using them on bare roads can potentially damage the chains to the point of them failing or breaking, which in turn can cause damage to your vehicle.

The safest route will be to simply drive up to the chain up area before actually installing them on your tires.

If you are still looking for a particular set of tire chains, please let me know what vehicle you have along with its tire size, and I will be happy to make a recommendation.

expert reply by: Chris R