Recommended Tire Chains to Fit 245/50 R18 Size Tires on a 2017 BMX X3 35i

Question:

I am looking for snow chains for a 2017 BMX X3 35i all wheel drive. The manual states recommends “fine link snow chains”, not sure what that is. If you could provide which snow chains work best for my vehicle that would be great. The tires are 245/50 R18. I think they put a “P” in front of 245. Thank you.

asked by: Lorraine M

Expert Reply:

The letter "P" in front of the tire size just indicates that they're designed to be used on a passenger vehicle. Also, when your 2017 BMW X3's manual states that you need "fine link" chains it means there isn't a lot of clearance between the tires and any parts of the vehicle so you need to use chains that are designed for this. Chains are given a Class to designate how much clearance is required for them to be installed. Since your manual specifically states to use "fine link" I recommend using Class S chains which require less clearance than any other tire chains.

We have three different chains to fit your BMW since you have 245/50 R18 size tires, all are Konig, and they each have some advantages to them.

The top of the line are the Easy Fit, part # TH04115245. This is probably the easiest tire chain to install that I've ever seen. All you do is place it over the tire and then push down on the pedal with your foot and it's good to go. It's so easy that many people don't even think they're finished putting it on.

The middle range chains of the group are actually my favorite, part # TH01594245. The install is more in depth than the Easy Fit but they're still very simple. You might need to test fit them at home before hand just to get the idea of how to use them because it's a little confusing at first. But once you've done it a time or two it's no big deal. I prefer these chains over the third option because of the self-tensioning feature that makes them easy to tighten and ensure they're on correctly. I've attached a video of them going on a GMC for you.

The final, and most economical, option is part # TH01571245. There's also a video of these being installed on the same GMC. They're very similar to the previous option except for the self-tensioning. These you need to tighten yourself and make sure they're installed correctly. I prefer to avoid this because it can sometimes be difficult to make this adjustment if you happen to be installing them on the side of the road in the snow when it's really cold outside.

Also, I just want to mention, nice job on checking your owner's manual about tire chains. Most people never do so and it's pretty important when it comes to using the correct ones and installing them properly.