Are there any options for snow chains on an 08 Outlander? Smaller rims/tires, or cable/Type S chains work? Anyone know where the clearance issue is at?

I have a strong preference for chains over snow tires. Thanks for any advice.

 

why? your not in a vehicle that has extreme weight. or an incredibly powerful 4wd. its just an urban suv

 

We get sudden winter storms where I live, but only 2 or 3 a year. Lots of snow and freezing rain for a day or two. I don't want to carry around 4 full-size spares, I just need to chain up and get where where I'm going. Plus, I go up and down logging roads from time to time, and I want to be able to chain up when I get to the snow line.

And chains have a lot more stability and traction than snow tires.

 

I'll be interested in others experience in using chain as well, especially for the 4wd. The manual doesn't recommend using chain for 4wd, so does that mean your option is only winter tire?

 

Thats because chain use is usually for vehicles that have RWD only (like pickups). 4wd vehicles usually get along better than a RWD w/chains... but if you are going through some really rough trails w/snow and the 4wd isnt enough then chains are an option. I guess you just get universal chains for the right wheel size.

When they declare "chain law" on roads during severe weather its only for RWD vehicles and semi-trucks. 4wd and FWD vehicles are excluded.

 

wow. just read the reply. So there isn't a clearance issue with the factory rims and chains?

That was my concern. I thought about getting some 16" steel rims w/ a lower offset and carrying chains for the winter. planning a lot of skiing this year.

 

do NOT use snow chains on ANY mitsubishi.
ever.


a set of quality snow tires is better in everyway imaginable.

 

The is a car based CUV, not a ladder framed 4x4 monster. Quality (studded if necessary) snow tires are your best bet.

 

We had some heavy snow storms in North West last winter where not everyone was prepared with chains, so I didn't even bother to check the stores because this is the first thing that sells out during times like this. So this was the first real test for my Outlander and it handled admirably. Yes, I got stuck a few times, but only because I wanted to, I was just testing the deep snow capability especially where the ground clearance wasn't enough for Outie. However for the most part I was able to drive around in various snow conditions in any type of roads without any trouble. Most of it is was a common sense and carefulness. What I worried most were other drivers who either drive too fast or carelessly and caused various trouble on the road. Chains or snow tires will not help you then...

 

people obviously havent used a modern snow tire here much.

they are FANTASTIC.