Does four wheel drive vehicle require snow chains ?

Question

I heard if you have a 4x4, you don't need snow chains in winter. Did I get this right ?

Answer 1

Some places make them mandatory, two that I know are Yosemite NP and British Columbia. In snowy conditions at Yosemite park entrance they will stop you at the gate and the directions range from please engage 4x4 to fit snow chains now. If you can't meet their requirements then you aren't coming in. On the border crossing from Alberta into BC on the trans Canada highway there are signs that say "snow chains required".

Some vehicles can't take snow chains at all, Landrover Discovery being one example, the owners manual says "do not use chains" which gives you a problem visiting Yosemite in the winter.

What do I think? High end snow tires and a modern off-road traction control system will do as well as or better than chains in most if not all conditions. A Discovery 2 with snow tires and no chains will easily go where an F-250 4x4 with standard tires and chains can't even move.

So it depends.

Answer 2

Under normal conditions, you would not need chains. There are some states that do mandate the use of chains in certain areas under certain conditions. Even in very deep snow chains will not get you out under certain conditions. Also, ice is a major factor. I have driven 4x4 vehicles for years. On ice they can slip and slide just like any other vehicle. I was once on a hill and it was a sheet of ice. My Durango couldn't get up it. For icy weather, I have gone to studded tires, front and rear. Remember something else that is very important. A 4x4 does not stop any better than any other vehicle. Many people think they can and wind up in accidents.

Answer 3

under accepted situations, you does no longer desire chains. There are some states that do mandate using chains particularly factors under particular situations. Even in very deep snow chains won't get you out under particular situations. additionally, ice is a significant factor. I even have pushed 4x4 automobiles for years. On ice they are able to slip and slide in simple terms like countless different motor vehicle. i grew to become into as quickly as on a hill and it grew to become right into a sheet of ice. My Durango could no longer arise it. For icy climate, I even have long gone to studded tires, front and rear. endure in techniques some thing else this is incredibly considerable. A 4x4 would not cease from now on than the different motor vehicle. many human beings think of they are able to and land up in injuries.

Answer 4

Yes. Snowy mountain roads require chains for all vehicles except 4x4

Answer 5

You don't need them unless you'll be driving in the mountains during a bad storm. They won't go everywhere. I use to plow snow in MN, and I'd still get stuck every once in awhile.

Answer 6

thats correct, if you can't go in snow with a 4 wheel drive you should stay home.

Answer 7

Under very extreme conditions they are helpful.

Answer 8

you are correct. unless the state declares a mandortory issue due to the weather at the time