Why cant Subaru use chains?
Subaru vehicles are not compatible with traditional tire chains, which can be a frustrating limitation for drivers in snowy or icy conditions. However, there are good reasons behind Subaru's stance on tire chains that are important to understand.
Subaru's All-Wheel Drive System
Subaru is known for its advanced Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, which is a key feature of most Subaru models. This AWD system is designed to provide excellent traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions. However, the AWD system is also sensitive to modifications that can disrupt its delicate balance, such as the use of tire chains.
Potential Damage to the AWD System
Tire chains can cause significant damage to Subaru's AWD system if used improperly. The chains can interfere with the system's sensors and components, leading to issues like:
- Uneven tire wear
- Driveline binding
- Transmission damage
- Suspension problems
These problems can ultimately result in costly repairs and potentially compromise the vehicle's safety and performance.
Subaru's Recommended Alternatives
Instead of traditional tire chains, Subaru recommends the use of alternative traction devices that are specifically designed for their AWD systems. These include:
- Subaru-approved snow tires
- Subaru-approved wheel well liners
- Subaru-approved traction mats
These alternatives provide the necessary traction in snowy or icy conditions without the risk of damaging the AWD system.
Conclusion
While the inability to use traditional tire chains can be frustrating for some Subaru owners, it's a necessary precaution to protect the integrity of the vehicle's advanced AWD system. By understanding the reasons behind Subaru's stance and using the recommended alternatives, Subaru drivers can safely navigate through challenging winter conditions.
Can a Subaru drive in snow without chains?
Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels. Note: four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles must carry traction devices in chain control areas. This is good news for every Subaru built since 1997 with the exception of the BRZ.
What cars can you not put chains on?
Requirement 2 (R-2): Chains are required on all vehicles except four-wheel-drive vehicles under 6,500 pounds gross weight and equipped with snow tires on all four wheels. Chains for one set of drive wheels must be carried by four wheel-drive vehicles using snow tires.
Can you use chains on AWD Subaru?
The simple answer: no. Due to Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, adding snow chains to your tires is not necessary, nor recommended. Many of Subaru's vehicle manuals explicitly state that snow chains are not recommended.
Are Subarus safe in snow?
Subarus are known for being good winter driving vehicles; the Forester, Outback, WRX, Ascent, and Crosstrek all receiving 7/10 or 8/10 rankings for winter driving. With all models possessing substantial ground clearance, Subarus are great for handling a road covered in snow.
What cars can drive in snow without chains?
In general, vehicles with 4WD and AWD don't need to chain up, as long as all wheels are in gear and they have approved traction tires with adequate tread. That includes studded tires and all-season, all-weather or snow tires (look for the M+S or mountain/snowflake symbol on the sidewall).
Is it okay to put chains on AWD?
You need snow or winter tires or even snow chains when facing severe winter roads in any vehicle. That includes AWDs.
Is AWD or 4WD better in snow?
Typically, AWD is better for driving on snowy and icy roads because the driver doesn't have to make any changes or use guesswork. But 4WD is the better option if you're going to be driving in deep snow, rough back roads or very extreme winter weather conditions, such as a snowdrift or an icy hill.
Are chains bad for your car?
Snow chains can damage your tires if they're not installed improperly. They can also cause some damage if they contact the road.
Why can't I put chains on my Subaru?
Subaru doesn't recommend chains because of two things: 1. It interferes with the Symmetrical AWD system. And 2. The actual clearance between the tires and the car may be too little to allow chains to even be fitted, without tearing up the wheel well.
What year did Subaru switch to timing chains?
Commonly found on most Subaru vehicles built in the 1990s and early 2000s, the EJ family of engines all feature timing belts. But, in 2010, the new FB family of engines featured an all-new design including a timing chain.
