Rules for Tire Chain be Use For General Driving in Michigan  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The Michigan DOT website does state that a person may use a tire chain of reasonable proportion on a vehicle when required for safety because of snow, ice or other condition tending to cause a vehicle to skid. However, it further states that the chain must not come into contact with the surface of the roadway. Based on this restriction it sounds like it would not be permissible to leave chains on continuously throughout the winter months unless road conditions were consistently snowy.

While these chains # PW1038 are compliant with DOT regulations in all states, I suggest you review your local and state laws regarding use of tire chains. You can ask your local highway patrol.

Also you will want to review your vehicle owners manual to confirm that use of tire chains is not prohibited by the manufacturer. Some vehicles do not have the necessary clearance within the wheel wells to allow use of snow chains, and some require a special type of chain.

S Class cable type chains, such as part # PW1038, are intended for passenger vehicles with limited wheel well clearance. In order to use these chains you need to have a minimum of 1.46 inches (37 mm) clearance between the tire tread and wheel well; and 0.59 inches (15 mm) clearance between the side wall and the vehicle. If these conditions are met then S Class chains will fit. I have included an installation video for a similar product that you might find helpful.

Please note that these Glacier chains are intended for occasional light duty use on passenger vehicles; they are not intended for continuous duty for an entire season. Also, please note that use of any tire chain will limit your maximum safe driving speed to 25 mph.

All tire chains must be selected by specific tire size. Since there are several different tire sizes possible on the 2008 Malibu you will want to double check the tires themselves to verify their size. (The tire size appears on the sidewall.) I have included a link to our tire chain page that shows the three tire sizes possible on the 2008 Malibu. Once you know your tire size you can click on one of the three links to see all appropriate choices for your tire size.

I have included links to FAQ pages on tire chains in general and Glacier chains in particular. These articles should prove helpful to you.

expert reply by: Adam R

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