Tire Chain Recommendation for a 2012 BMW 535i with 275/3519 Tires

Updated 11/02/2012 | Published 11/01/2012

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1115)

$65.88

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

(759)

$238.84

Question:

I have a 2012 BMW 535i with 19inch m-sport rims. I need snow cables for some occasional trips to the mountains. Rear tire size is 275/35/19. I cant find in the user manual any reference to class S clearance. BMW user guide recommends chains on rear tires and only up to 245/40 R19. 1- Is there anywhere else where I can find info related to clearance? 2- Giving that I have performance tires. Am I going to be OK with snow chains only in the back?

asked by: SG

Expert Reply:

First, if you cannot find any additional chain information in the owners manual, I recommend contacting a BMW dealer and speaking with a technician. Most vehicles like yours with the larger rims do require Class S chains if chains can be used at all. Tire chains should be placed on the main drive wheels. Since your 535i is rear wheel drive then you will want chains to fit the 275/35/19 rear tires.

If you have very little clearance between the tires and wells, or the tires and suspension parts behind the tire, then the Glacier # PW1046 ladder style snow cables are the best.

If you have a bit more space then the Konig # TH2004205106 tire chains are an excellent choice as they are seal-tensioning and use the diamond pattern to better braking and cornering. Additionally they have D-links with ice spikes for maximum grip.

expert reply by: Michael H