Recommendation for Economical Snow Chains on 2006 Honda Element

Updated 11/29/2019 | Published 11/28/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1102)

$138.96

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

(407)

$51.80

Question:

Hi! I have a 2006 Honda Element with around 190,000 miles on it. Im wanting to go to the snow and I have all terrain tires with the mud and snow symbol but I heard that I should still get snow chains as well just in case. The trip is going to either Lake Tahoe or Donner Ridge and I was wondering what are good snow chains that wont break my bank? And is rim protection necessary? I dont know if Ill actually use the chains but Id rather be safe then sorry.

asked by: Michaela M

Expert Reply:

I took a look at the online version of the owner's manual for your 2006 Honda Element and it does state that only Class S rated chains should be used, and they should only be installed on the front tires. A Class S rating just means that the snow chains are specifically designed for wheel wells that don't have a lot of clearance to work with.

With all this in mind your best option for an economically-priced set of snow chains will be with the Glacier # PW2016C as long as you have 215/70-16 sized tires (just let me know if you have a different size). These are actually cable-type chains that are lighter than traditional chains for easier transport and installation and they're Class S rated for compatibility with your Honda Element.

Snow cables are a great option for the "just in case" applications like yours and they will work really nicely with the all-terrain tires to provide good traction in the snow. Two chains are included but I do recommend adding the Glacier Multi-Arm Rubber Adjusters # PW105 to create a tighter fit around the tires when mounted. With this type of setup additional rim protection isn't necessary.

I have attached a couple video reviews that you can check out as well.

expert reply by: Chris R