Can Tire Chains Be Used on a 2019 Subaru Forester Touring

Published 02/07/2019

Products Featured in This Question

ISSE Classic Snow Socks - Size 70 - 1 Pair

(50)

$105.55

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

(81)

$568.89

Question:

I will be traveling in the Sierra Mountains in a few weeks and if theres a lot of snow on the highways all vehicles - even those with AWD - are required to have chains. Do Snow Socks meet the chainsinch requirement?

asked by: Dale

Expert Reply:

The best traction device we have for your 2019 Subaru Forester Touring with 225/55-18 is the ISSE Hybrid Snow Socks part # TCH70. The snow socks will not void your factory warranty and they will do a good jab of providing traction in light snow. The advantage that these snow socks have over a standard tire chain is that they are easy to install which you can see from the sample video and they won't ever damage the vehicles wheels.

expert reply by: Conner L

Dale

2/7/2019

Conner L.

2/7/2019

If an actual tire chain is required then the ISSE Hybrid Snow Socks part # TCH70 likely won't pass as such but if you call the local authorities they will have more definite information on this. However, if you will be dealing with heavy mountain snow then the ISSE Hybrid Snow Socks are not your best option anyhow. Instead, the Konig Premium Self-Tensioning Snow Tire Chains part # TH02230K45 would be better suited. These chains are actually unique in that they only attach to the middle of tire and are ideal for vehicles with limited wheel well clearance like your Forester. The vehicle manufacturer will still say not to use these chains but you also don't have an option if you will be driving through an area where they are required.