What kind of tire chains/cables to use on Versa's

[browntown3]

Has anyone used tire chains or cables with their versa? We are for the first time without a 4x4 for this winter and i wanted to get a set just to have in case of an emergency. I have searched and found a few brands that will fit our cars but wanted to see if you guys have had experience with any in particular? Any insight would be greatly appreciated as i have never owned chains before. Thanks!!

[IanS]

What area do you live in where you think chains would be necesary?

I think a good snow/ice tire would most likely be a better choice. Once the snow gets higher then midway up the bumper, it makes no difference anyway, you aren't going too far.

[Dattebayo]

Chains are only really needed if you live in an area with lots of ice, and even then they're not really all that great.

[Bubba1]

If you did not use chains with your AWD, then I question if you really need them for a lightweight FWD car. I believe your Versa came equipped with all-season radials which are normally not that great in snow/ice and significatly inferior to a purpose built snow tire. If you live in a heavy snow prone area, like Buffalo, I'd recommend investing in a good set of real snow tires (like Blizzaks). you'll feel a real difference.

If you're uncomfortable driving in snow/ice, you also might consider taking a winter driving course. They are a hoot, and you learn a lot.

But if you're looking for a decent tire chain, it really depends on how much you're willing to spend and the type you want. If it's just for emergencies on unplowed paved roads, you might want a "cable" type. softer riding, less noisy, usually a less expensive, and a lower profile than chain link ones. Good brands include Thule and Michelin.

[browntown3]

thanks for the replies thus far, To give some further details, I live in East TN, where tire chains are by no mean a common commodity to have. But I always like to be prepared for anything that may arrive, Our town is small and usually unable to keep up with the snow that we get, and i have a very long commute to work. The past few years we have had some bad storms and most often we are out of power from all the trees here in the mountains. That and with us having a toddler and a newborn on the way in a couple months i want to have a way to leave our house to get to warmth if need be. So i would think the chains might be used maybe once or twice a year at most, hopefully not at all but like i said i would rather have some taking up space in the trunk than be stuck on the side of the road, like i was last year when i didnt take my 4x4 to work. I have looked today and found a couple brands that will probably work for me but wanted to see if anyone had experience with them on our cars...