Tire Chain Recommendation for 2018 Mazda CX-9 AWD Signature with 255/50R20 Tires

Updated 11/12/2020 | Published 11/09/2020

Question:

Have a 2018 Mazda CX-9 AWD Signature trim which means is has 255/50R20 tires. Im want to get a set of chains for it, but the owners manual recommends use of chains only with 18 tires due to limited clearance. Im concerned about doing damage that might void my warranty, but dont really want to spend $1500 on winter tires/wheels. How confident are you in recommendations for this vehicle tire size 20 combination?

asked by: Tony D

Expert Reply:

We get questions like this all the time. The larger wheels mean restricted clearances, so manufacturers want to cover their liability. We cannot tell you to do anything against the manufacturers owners manual, so you will need to make the decision to accept any liability.

If it were me, I am very confident in using the Konig Premium Self-Tensioning Snow Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - D Link - K-Summit XXL - Size K67 # TH2004565767 for your specific tires. This unique tire chain adds absolutely no inside clearance change which is the primary issue with the larger tires restricting clearance when turning. I have yet to see a vehicle that has issues with this chain design, so that is the route I would go. You will have speed limitations using the tire chains just like any other tire chains, so they don't work in the same way as snow tires. If you are just wanting chains, this is my only recommendation as even the other low profile chains will still increase the inside clearance and could cause issues.

expert reply by: Jason S