Chaining 4WD Required - What do we do?

Question

On the news last week I saw that they required 4WD vehicles chain up before going over a pass here in Washington. I checked the Washington State Department of Transportation and found the following (please read last sentence)...

Exception for all wheel drive vehicles: when "chains required" signs are posted, all-wheel drive vehicles are exempt from the chain requirement when all wheels are in gear and are equipped with approved traction devices, provided that tire chains for at least one set of drive tires are carried in the vehicle. However, the patrol can require chains on all-wheel drive vehicles as well, if conditions warrant their use."

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Since 2000 Subarus or newer can't be chained, what are we suppose to do? Any solutions out there?

David · Accepted Answer

Mine can, although I'm not sure if you can chain the rear wheels.  03 Forester.I'm sure any modern Subaru car can accept a Spikes Spider.

LB · Answer

I sent email to the suburu via  They said while then can't make recommendation, they say that cable chains (i.e. cables, not chain) will work fine.I have Outback '05

George Schroeder · Answer

Security Chain Co. has a "Shur Grip" line of cable chains that they claim can beused on the front wheels of some (all) Subarus.: I sent email to the suburu via  They said while then can't make : recommendation, they say that cable chains (i.e. cables, not chain) will : work fine.: : I have Outback '05: :>:>> >:>> Since 2000 Subarus or newer can't be chained,:>:> Mine can, although I'm not sure if you can chain the rear wheels.  03 :> Forester.:>:> I'm sure any modern Subaru car can accept a Spikes Spider.:>:>:> : :

lmnop · Answer

I was in Leavenworth Washington this last weekend, they had the worst weather (freezing rain & ice)there in 20 years I heard. I chained my Ford Ranger, though I really did not need to. But My wife has a new Subaru so we were asking how  the local law deals with the all-wheel-drive vehicles. And we talked with more than a couple Subaru owners. They had said they never had a problem getting around, and were never questioned by law enforcement.We will take the Subaru next time with chains in the back, but will not make reservations. And if it gets so bad that we are required to chain we will turn around. I do not feel comfortable putting chains on it without chaining ALL 4 wheels, for fear of damaging components, let alone clearance.

Chaining 4WD Required - What do we do?

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