Will tire chains fit your vehicle?

The 2026 Ram 1500 manual says that using traction devices requires sufficient tire-to-body clearance. Because of limited clearance, it recommends only certain devices and gives these rules to guard against damage:

Right size for the tire. The snow traction device must be the proper size for the tire, as recommended by the snow traction device manufacturer.

Only the listed tire sizes. No other tire sizes are recommended for use with the snow traction device. Follow the manual's table for the recommended tire size, axle and device.

Good condition only. Because of restricted clearance between the tires and other suspension components, use only traction devices in good condition. Broken devices can cause serious damage.

From the 2026 Ram 1500 Owner's Manual, Snow Traction Devices (pp. 358-359), read November 12, 2026.

Example: 2026 Ram 1500 chainable tires

The 2026 Ram 1500 manual lists these original-equipment chainable tire and wheel sizes. Every chainable combination uses an S Class chain or cable size on the rear axle only:

From the 2026 Ram 1500 Owner's Manual, Snow Traction Devices table (pp. 358-359), read November 12, 2026. Other vehicles have their own tables; check your manual.

Installing and driving on tire chains

The Ram 1500 manual gives these precautions to avoid damage to the vehicle or tires:

Follow the device maker. Observe the traction device manufacturer's instructions on the method of installation, operating speed and conditions for use.

Tighten, then retighten. Install the device as tightly as possible, then retighten it after driving about 1/2 mile (0.8 km). The manual notes that Autosock traction devices do not require retightening.

Keep it slow. Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h). If the device manufacturer's suggested operating speed is less than 30 mph, always use that lower speed.

Drive gently. Drive cautiously and avoid severe turns and large bumps, especially with a loaded vehicle. Do not drive for a prolonged period on dry pavement.

Listen for trouble. Stop the vehicle immediately if noise occurs that could indicate the device is breaking, and remove the damaged parts of the device before further use.

From the 2026 Ram 1500 Owner's Manual, Snow Traction Devices (p. 359), read November 12, 2026.

Other things to know

No chains on a compact spare. The Ram 1500 manual says not to use traction devices on a compact spare tire.

Matching tires. The manual warns that using tires of different size and type (M+S, Snow) between the front and rear axles can cause unpredictable handling, and you could lose control and have a collision.

Tire pressure warning. The manual lists using tire chains among the things that can cause a Tire Pressure Monitoring System fault, shown by a flashing and then solid TPMS warning light and a SERVICE TPM SYSTEM message.

Snow tires and local rules. The manual says some areas of the country require snow tires during the winter, and that snow tires carry a mountain/snowflake symbol on the sidewall. It also says some states prohibit studded tires, so check local laws before using them.

From the 2026 Ram 1500 Owner's Manual, Snow Traction Devices (p. 359), Snow Tires (p. 356) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (p. 287), read November 12, 2026.

Winter tire questions at Elgin Auto Sales & Service Center

If you are not sure whether your tires can take chains, check the tire size on the sidewall against your owner's manual. For tire and winter maintenance questions, contact our service department or see our service specials.

Our service department at 1200 E. Chicago St. in Elgin is open Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is closed Sunday. Get directions.