Are There Tire Chain Alternatives for a 2014 Ford Escape with 235/45-19 Tires

Updated 11/26/2019 | Published 11/25/2019

Question:

The owners manual says not to put snow chains on 235/45/19 tires which is what I have. Is there any way around this without causing damage to the struts, break lines, etc? Will possibly need snow chains for a trip to the SoCal mountains soon.

asked by: Sue

Expert Reply:

The best option for a 2014 Ford Escape with 235/45-19 tires are the Konig Premium Self-Tensioning Snow Tire Chains part # th02230k45. The Konig Premium Chains are unique in that they do not mount on the inside of the tire, only on top so they can be used on vehicle's with limited wheel well clearance like a Ford Escape. That said, although the owner's manual states not to use tire chains or cables on this size of tire you really don't have much of an option for certain areas because they are required and you could very well end up off the road if they were not used so ultimately the choice will be up to you.

Please note, you are still covered under the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act so the manufacturer cannot void any warranties just because tire chains are used so long as they did not cause any issue which I do not think will be a problem with the above due to how they mount.

expert reply by: Conner L