What Does Class S Mean For Snow Tire Chains

Question

Question:

WHAT DOES THE CLASS S STAND FOR

asked by: RONALD F

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

Some newer cars, vans and small trucks, especially those with large, aftermarket tires, may require the use of Class S chains. Class S tire chains are designed for use on vehicles with restricted wheel well clearance. I have attached a photo that shows the areas where clearance for Class S tire chains is needed. For the A dimension a minimum of 1.46inches (37 mm) between the top of the tire tread and the wheel well is needed. For the B dimension, at least 0.59 inches (15 mm) between the tire's sidewall and the vehicle itself is required.

I have attached a helpful article that explains the differences in tire chains and a comparison chart for tire chains. I have also included a link to an article that is a snow tire chain review. This explains snow tire chains and also has a list of the states and their laws regarding snow tire chain use.

You will want to check with your owners manual to see what is recommended when considering snow tire chains.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

1

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Sue L.

12/14/2024

Your write-up says you have attached an article, but the article is not attached. Can you email it to me? Thank you.

Kevin C.

12/14/2024

@SueL I've attach a link right below this comment that leads to all of our tire chain help articles. If you need any help picking out the right chains for your vehicle let me know the year/make/model and tire size and I'd be happy to help.

Helpful Links

article-categories.aspx?productgroup=tire-chains

Helmut

9/28/2025

@KevinC, I have a 2022 GMC duramax 2500. The book says not to use snow chains on my tires. 275/65R/20. They say there is not enough clearance could damage brake lines. what does E trailer recommend Helmut

Robin H.

9/30/2025

@Helmut we recommend following what your manual says.

See All (5) Replies to Sue L. ∨

Serhiy

12/31/2024

Thanks for clear explanation.

Answer 1

The correct Konig Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - Square Link - Self Tensioning for 255/40R20 tires is part #TH01594247. These are excellent tire chain options which have square links that provide traction in both snow/ice, a self-tensioning…

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Answer 2

Welcome back Mick! The pewag Wide Base Tire Chains w Cams item #PWE3229SC are not Class U rated but fall well within the sizing requirements. Class U tire chains require at least 0.91" of sidewall clearance and the pewag Wide Base Tire Chains…

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Answer 3

Hey Matt, we have the pewag Brenta C tire chains #PWXMR82V which are a fit for your tire size 265/70R17 and would provide great traction in snow and mud. These are also a little easier to install as well.

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Answer 4

Hey Tom, the best option you are going to have for tire chains for your 2025 Lexus ES 300h is the Konig chains part #TH02230K34 which are the K-Summit style that are the absolute best for vehicles with tight tire chain restrictions. These do not…

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Answer 5

Hey William, thanks for the information. For a set of low profile tire chains that fit LT245/75R16 tires, I recommend the Konig Tire Chains item #TH2004705255. These diamond pattern chains are great for great for snow and only require .59" of…

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Answer 6

According to my Pewag representative, the #PWE3231SC is a confirmed fit for your 275/70R-18 Goodyear Duratrac tires.

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Answer 7

For your 2019 Ram 2500 that has the tire size 275/70-18 the tire chains I recommend for safety and traction is the Pewag chains part #PWE3229S. These USA made tire chains are made from Nickel Manganese which is the most durable chain material…

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Answer 8

Hey Dan, thanks for the information. For a set of tire chains that are going to give you traction on a steep incline and keep you in control going downhill, I recommend the Titan Chain Heavy Duty Tire Chains w Cams item #TC74FR. These chains can be…

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Answer 9

The #CSS-1168R and #CSS-1195F are only confirmed to fit the FWD models but that doesn't mean there aren't Coil SumoSprings for your 2023 Sienna AWD. To find the right size you will need to measure the gap between in the middle of the coil.…

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Answer 10

Twist link chains offer excellent traction in deep snow and some are even rated for mud. They provide decent traction on ice, and since they have rounded edges ride quality isn't too bad. V-Bar chains are similar but have better grip on ice. For…

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Answer 11

Class S compatible chains refers to an amount of clearance required for the chains. S chains are low profile chains that don't require as much clearance as the bigger chains. So for a set of S compatible chains that fit your tire size of…

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Answer 12

Link size and design do make a pretty big difference and have pros and cons so you'll have to decide what will serve your 2020 Subaru Crosstrek the best. Bigger links will give a bit better traction in deep snow and will be a bit rougher so…

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What Does Class S Mean For Snow Tire Chains

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