Tire Chains for 2017 Toyota 4Runner SR5

Updated 11/17/2025 | Published 11/30/2024

Question:

Hi - 2017 Toyota 4Runner, 4 wheel drive, SR5. Looking for tire chains just in case needed for trips to local SoCal mountains and Mammoth Mountain. We do have M+S Michelin tires currently on the SUV with excellent tread remaining. Dont anticipate much use of chains. On 4Runner forum, there were comments that Toyota doesnt recommend chains installed on the front wheels due to potential damage to brake lines. In the video, you installed the chains on the front of the 4Runner. Also, Ive seen posts saying chains are needed for all 4 tires if vehicle is 4WD, and Ive seen posts saying only put on the rear for a 4WD vehicle. Please let me know what e-Trailer would recommend and why, pros/cons. The tightening feature of these particular chains looks very good. Also the cost fits my budget. The video didnt mention what to do with the excess chain link at the ends. Is that because with the manual tightening feature there is no excess at the ends? Appreciate any input Thanks very much.

asked by: Sharon W

Expert Reply:

Hi Sharon; with tire chains like the # PWH2228SC you always want to follow what your owner's manual says. From what I have found it states "Install tire chains on the rear tires only. Do not install tire chains on the front tires." I have a feeling our video didn't take that into consideration and only installed them to show the process. Regarding any excess chain links, you can remove them so you don't have to worry about them hanging down. These fit a wide variety of tire sizes so there will be a few extra links depending on your exact tires.

expert reply by: Robin H

Robin H.

11/17/2025

Hey Sharon, how did things go with the Glacier tire chains on your 4Runner after following Toyota’s rear-only guidance? Your update could make it easier for others deciding where to mount their chains on similar vehicles.