To begin, we recommend looking in your vehicle manual for information on snow chains. This is important as the manufacturer has specific guidelines relating to the safe use and operation of the vehicle, including the suitability of snow chains and directions on how they are installed on the vehicle.
We have referenced some examples here:
Example #1
Selecting tyre chains
Use the correct snow chain size when mounting the snow chains.
Snow chain product sizes are regulated for each tyre size. Check sizing before first use.
Regulations on the use of snow chains
Regulations regarding the use of snow chains vary depending on location and type of road. Always check local regulations before installing snow chains.
Snow chain installation
Observe the following precautions when installing and removing snow chains:
- Install and remove snow chains in a safe location.
- Install snow chains on the rear tyres. Do not install snow chains on the front tyres.
- Install snow chains on rear tyres as tightly as possible. Re-tighten chains after driving 0.5 – 1.0km (1/4 – 1/2 mile).
- Install snow chains following the instructions provided with the snow chains.
Guidelines
These instructions start with some general advice to check you select the correct snow chains for your tyre size.
The manual recommends you become familiar with the regulations in the region you intend to use the snow chains. Understanding the types of road and the conditions on your journey is another key aspect to be mindful of. Find out more on the areas you are driving in the section Winter Driving in New Zealand.
Snow chain installation and removal must be done in a safe location. In New Zealand, we have clearly marked chain fitting areas on mountain passes.
The manual specifies that snow chains must be fitted on the rear tyres on this vehicle. This is important as there may not be enough clearance to fit snow chains on the front tyres. It may also be that the vehicle is rear wheel drive, so fitting snow chains to the rear wheels is necessary to gain traction.
Example #2
Snowchains
Usage
The snow chains improve driving in wintry road conditions.
⚠️ WARNING
Risk of accident as well as tyre damage! Do not use chains on roads that are free from snow and ice.
What you should be mindful of
Only mount the snow chains on the front wheels.
- Only fit snow chains with links and locks that are no larger than 13mm.
Technical data
Permitted rim/tyre combinations for mounting of snow chains:
Rim size Tyre size
6.5Jx17 ET38 215/65 R17
Guidelines
These instructions start with some general advice on when to use snow chains and how they will benefit you by improving driving in wintry road conditions.
The manual specifies that snow chains must be fitted on the front tyres with a profile no larger than 13mm. On each product page under specifications, there is the chain profile for each snow chain. In this instance, due to the suspension setup, there is minimal clearance around the front wheels.
If you have clearance around the rear wheels you may be able to fit snow chains on the back, but you would need to engage four-wheel drive. If you need further advice, talk to a sales representative of contact the manufacturer.
Example #3
Tyre chains
It is recommended that snow chains are carried in snow regions and fitted when required to the front wheels in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
On 4WD vehicles in which the driving power is distributed preferentially to the front wheels, ensure that the tyre chains are fitted on the front.
Before fitting tyre chains, consult an authorised MITSUBISHI MOTORS dealer. The max. chain height is as follows:
| Tyre size | Wheel size | Max. chain height [mm] |
|---|---|---|
| 215/65R16 | 16 x 6 1/2 J | 9mm |
| 225/558R18 | 18 x 7 J |
⚠️ WARNING
DO NOT use a jack when fitting the chains, as in the conditions, the tyres may slip on the icy road causing the vehicle to slip off the jack.
Guidelines
These instructions start with some general advice, followed by a recommendation that people know how to use snow chains in the regions where they may be required. It clearly specifies they must be fitted to the front tyres.
The manual specifies that snow chains must be fitted on the front tyres and that the maximum chain height is 9mm. Due to the very small clearance around the front wheels, it will not be suitable for any Snowsweat snow chain in the product range.
We recommend contacting a Mitsubishi Motors dealer for more information on whether snow chains can be safely fitted to the rear wheels and whether driving distribution can be improved on the rear axle by changing the driving settings.
