How to Determine if Snow Tire Chains Can be Used on a 2010 Saturn Outlook

Updated 12/18/2012 | Published 12/17/2012

Question:

Can I use these snow cables for Saturn outlook AWD? Found stuff online that says nothing will fit the wheel well for a Saturn outlook so want to be sure before I order anything.

asked by: SP

Expert Reply:

The first thing you are going to want to do is consult the vehicle owners manual for the use of tire chains. There is a chain paradox in which some vehicle owners manuals state not to use chains but in some areas of the country they are required by law. In that situation what you want to do is contact a GM dealer (since Saturn no longer exists) for their recommendation.

The issue with most vehicles on which chains should not be used is the small amount of clearance around the back side of the tire between the tire side wall and the vehicle. To determine how much clearance you have you can cut the wheels all the way left, measure, all the way right, measure, and straight, measure. You will be measuring from the tire side wall to the nearest vehicle component in each position (left, right, straight). Then you can determine if there is enough space for chains.

There are some chains, Thule K-Summit, that only go on the tread and the outside of the tires and not the inside at all. Those would be the best option for minimal clearance. To determine if there are K-Summit chains available I would need to know the tire size on your Outlook. I have included a link to our tire chain FAQ article for you.

expert reply by: Michael H