Comparing Thule CS-10 and CB12 Tire Chains for a 2014 Subaru Outback Wagon with 225/60-17 Tires

Updated 02/24/2014 | Published 02/21/2014

Products Featured in This Question

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

(269)

$151.96

Question:

Would the cb12, or the cs10 be the better chain for a 2014 subaru outback with 225/60r 17 tires, or does it make any difference. I dont beleive the manual recommends using chains at all, but the law says that although 4WD and AWD vechiles dont need them in most cases, they still must be carried in the vechile.

asked by: David

Expert Reply:

I think the law trumps the owners manual but you might want to check with Subaru just to be sure. This is the old tire chain paradox in action: manual says no, law says yes. That is it in a nutshell.

The Thule CS-10 chains are associated with passenger cars so I would look at them for your 2014 Subaru Outback Wagon. For the 225/60-17 tires you would use # TH2004125104 that you referenced. The CB12 chains # TH01221104 will fit but offer no rim protection or quick release features and do not have the ice breaker like the CS10 chains. Also the CS10 chains are just a little smaller at 10mm compared to the 12 mm of the CB12s. This means the CS10s require less clearance.

expert reply by: Michael H