Tire Chain Recommendation for a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas with 255/50R20 Size Tires

Published 12/16/2022

Products Featured in This Question

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

(82)

$808.69

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

(737)

$372.13

Question:

I'm seeing in my manual for my 2023 VW Atlas that I can only use snow chains if I have 245/65R17 tires. Mine is equipped with 255/50R20 so my question is can I use one of these low clearance smaller chain sets or do I really have to buy new tires for my new vehicle just so I can use tire chains?

asked by: Jenn

Expert Reply:

Great question!

Since the manual for your 2023 Volkswagen Atlas states that you can only install chains on the 245/65R17 tire size you have a limited selection, but we do still have a set of chains that you can use for your larger 255/50R20 tires without damaging anything.

Whenever we see instructions like this it's because there is low clearance on the back side of the tire. Standard chains hug the outward and inward sidewalls of the tire and that inward sidewall might be sitting close to brake lines or suspension parts which is why chains can't be used.

Enter the Konig K-Summit Tire Chains # TH2004565767. This is a specialty chain that mounts via a lug nut instead of "hugging" the tire. Since this secures a different way the chain will ONLY be sitting on the tread of your tire so it doesn't have the opportunity to even think about damaging anything near that inward sidewall of your tire.

Aside from using the K-Summit chains your only other option is to swap out all of your tires for the smaller 245/65R17 size. If you did choose to go that route then I recommend checking out the Konig Tire Chains # th2004705265 which act a bit more like standard chains but they are Class S compatible so they are low clearance, and they have an automatic adjuster that helps keep the chains nice and snug against your tires.

Attached are review videos of both tire chain styles for you to check out!