Cable chains?

[Spuds]

Originally Posted by venturaII

I think you're overlooking the fact that it's CalTrans that requires the chains. Not saying that a good set of studded winters wouldn't get you into or out of 95% of the places chains will..

I am not overlooking it. Im just saying that if chains are legally required for some period of time, perhaps it would be best to alter your travel plans on that occasion. I've had to do that a few times without a law saying so. If this happens to you twice a week, then maybe chains are needed, but at that point perhaps you would be better off with a truck or something.

[venturaII]

He asked about tire chains in the remote event he's caught somewhere that requires them by law. There's a whole list of reasons why my answer isn't going to be "buy a truck"...

[mav1178]

Originally Posted by venturaII

I think you're overlooking the fact that it's CalTrans that requires the chains. Not saying that a good set of studded winters wouldn't get you into or out of 95% of the places chains will..

based on 15+ years of experience going up to the Sierras for snowboarding/hiking in the winter, I can tell you that chains are needed in the car if you are going to areas that have the R1 restriction in place (i.e. towns like Mammoth Lakes) due to existing snow on the ground and lack of plowing. But this is a loose requirement, because most places in the Sierras don't have strict enforcement in place unless it's a major holiday weekend.

R2 restrictions are put in place if there's a large storm or blizzard, but they usually close the roads before R2 restrictions are in place.

In practice, most people just carry chains and have winter tires, even if its not 4WD. It's not an issue but if you spin out or wreck (and require the authorities to help you get free), you'll be cited for not having chains if the restrictions are in place. Otherwise, drive slow and safe and no one will care.

[nick.cfrancis]

The best option for this car given the low clearance is an Autosock. They are CalTrans legal and work well.
For the stock 215/45R17 tires size you need size AS645
https://shopautosock.mcgeecompany.co...from=215-45r17
Outside of the People's Republic of California I would recommend real snow tires like the Michelin X-Ice or Bridgestone Blizzak as they are superior in cold weather grip and snow traction. Unfortunately California's misguided policies don't recognize snow tires so you are stuck with chain stations and the ensuing havoc.

[why?]

Originally Posted by venturaII

There are sections of northern California that get crazy amounts of snow, and vehicles are not allowed to pass over the highways at times unless they have traction adding equipment with them. Not really the kind of place I'd bring my car regularly, but people do sometimes get stuck up there if there's a flash storm...


https://dot.ca.gov/travel/winter-driving-tips

"Always carry chains."


A sample of snow in the California Sierras...it's legit snow country...

https://www.sacbee.com/news/weather-...228078559.html

So another stupid California law. It also states if they feel like your car can't deal with the weather they can force you to turn around. So I doubt they'd let our car anywhere near it.

Even in the mountains a good set of winter tires will be all you need. Those regulations should be updated at least once a century. I bet they haven't changed in 50 or 60 years.