Auto-Trac tire chains change winter math: three simple connections, no jacking, and automatic tightening while you drive. That patented ratcheting system replaces fiddly tensioners and gets you moving faster when roads turn icy or snowy.
Peerless says you just hook the inside cable, attach the two outside self-tighteners and drive so the system takes up slack on the road. No crawling under wheels, no extra tensioners, and compatibility with SUVs, light trucks, and many passenger cars — pretty compelling when the mercury drops, right?
Who This Is For
If you drive an SUV, light truck, or need occasional winter traction for a passenger car, these chains are built for convenience and durability. They solve the common pain point of slow installs for commuters, contractors, and road-trip families who hit mixed snow and ice.
Good fit if you want quick installs, manganese alloy links for wear resistance, and a cable-style form factor that reduces weight and bulk in the trunk. Not ideal if you need full-on heavy-duty link chains for commercial snow plowing.
What Stands Out in Daily Use
- Self-tightening ratchets – Automatic centering and tension while driving, so you skip added chain tensioners and iterative adjustments.
- Manganese alloy steel cross members – Shorter, lighter D-section links increase contact area and reduce road impact for longer wear and less fly-off.
- Class “S” clearance fit – Designed to meet clearance on many SUVs and pickups as well as standard passenger cars, giving more vehicle compatibility.
- Low-mass cable design – Easier to handle, store, and install compared to heavy ladder-style chains; better for trunk storage, maintenance, and occasional use.
- Reduced maintenance – Simple cable and ratchet system means fewer moving parts to lubricate; check for wear and rinse off salt after winter use.
How to Choose
- Size match: Pick the chain size that matches your tire sidewall and rim diameter. A wrong size risks poor tension or rubbing against brake components.
- Clearance needs: Confirm Class S clearance compatibility if you have limited wheel well space or sensor-equipped brake systems.
- Use-case: Choose cable-style Auto-Trac if you want lighter weight and faster installs; choose heavier link chains for constant deep-snow work.
- Durability vs weight: Manganese alloy offers longer wear with less mass — good trade-off for most drivers balancing performance and storage.
Quick Setup & Use
- Park on level ground and engage the parking brake for safety while you loop the cable around the tire.
- Connect the inner cable to the back of the tire and position cross members across the tread to distribute grip.
- Attach the two outside self-tightening ratchets and ensure the chain sits centered on the tread.
- Drive forward slowly for a short distance to let the ratchets take up slack and automatically tension the chain.
- Re-check tension and clearance after the tensioners seat; stop and re-adjust if you hear abnormal noise.
Buyer Doubts Solved
Worried about installation complexity? The Auto-Trac design focuses on three connection points so beginners can manage installs without a helper.
Concerned about damage to rims or sensors? The cable layout and Class S clearance reduce interference, but always confirm fit for your specific vehicle model.
Think cable chains won’t grip like link ladders? The manganese alloy D-section cross members increase contact surface and provide surprisingly aggressive bite on packed snow and ice.
Wondering about storage and maintenance? These are lighter and easier to rinse and dry than heavy link chains. Regular visual checks for wear and salt rinses after winter outings keep them working longer.
These Peerless Auto-Trac tire chains are a smart mix of convenience, corrosion-resistant materials, and real-world traction. If you want faster installs and fewer roadside struggles this winter, they deserve your shortlist.
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