Just got an invitation to a New Year's party in Boulder, Colorado. Got the time and inclination to drive there from the San Francisco area. But . . . there's a lot of snow country (Sierra Nevada and Rocky Mountain ranges) and 1270 miles in between. All interstate driving, but who can tell this time of year.

Is it really true that our TLS's cannot use chains? What about chain substitutes? I wouldn't invest in special tires and wheels for just one trip--besides, California has rules about tire types down here in the flats.

All comments or suggestions are welcomed.

 

You are correct, you cannot use chains. One other option would be spider spikes. They attach to your lugnuts and supposedly won't harm you wheels. Ask about them at your local tire store. They are, however, over $300.

 

We can't use chains on our car?
Damn $hit.. I just came back from sequoia national park yesterday, and I put the chains on ALL the times. is it bad for the wheels? because after I took it off. I don't see any visible damage ,only some dirt, so I guess it is fine. As you can see in the picture, the chain didn't really touch the rim itself. but you really need to be careful at the time you put them on.

 

hyc2000,

Thanks for your reply and especially the picture!

Do you run stock tires? Looks like stock wheel and tires. If so, what size chains did you get?

Since I'd be hoping to never need the chains, and only use them in the direst circumstances, maybe your experience proves that the strategy is viable.

Merry Xmas

 

Rent a car Why put your TL through all that.

 

NSXNEXT,

Rent a 4X4 SUV just for this trip? Interesting idea. I decided against flying because 1) I missed the 'more than 30 days' pricing, 2) all the hassle at airports these days, and 3) I just love to drive, even in the winter. After living in interior Alaska for seven years, it's not a big deal. I'll check the rental pricing. Thanks for the suggestion.

 

That was my same reaction when I was first buying my car. I wanted the dealer to throw in a set of cables in, but they showed me that the TLS manual itself specifially states not to use any chains or cables with it. I asked why, and as usual they couldnt exactly explain, but seeing that pic is cool, you're the first I've seen with chains on.

 

merry x-mas to all