Headed to the mountains this winter? Whether you're preparing for chain controls or just want to handle snowy roads safely, here's everything you need to know about winter tire options and chain requirements for your Tacoma.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 439-441, 533)
Critical Note for 265/70R18 Tire Owners: If your Tacoma is equipped with 265/70R18 tires, tire chains CANNOT be installed due to insufficient clearance between the tire and body. You must use snow tires instead.
Here's what matters for safe winter driving with snow tires. These aren't suggestions - skip them and you risk losing control.
Tire chains change how your truck handles. Here's what to know - these precautions keep you safe on icy mountain roads.
When parking the vehicle without applying the parking brake, make sure to chock the wheels. If you do not chock the wheels, the vehicle may move unexpectedly, possibly resulting in an accident.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 441
Mixing tire types is one of the most common winter driving mistakes. Here's what can go wrong - and why Toyota is so specific about this.
Before selecting winter equipment, understand the three tire categories:
Summer tires are high-speed performance tires best suited to highway driving under dry conditions. Since summer tires do not have the same traction performance as snow tires, summer tires are inadequate for driving on snow-covered or icy roads. For driving on snow-covered roads or icy roads, the use of snow tires is recommended.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 533
All season tires are designed to provide better traction in snow and to be adequate for driving in most winter conditions as well as for use year-round. All season tires, however, do not have adequate traction performance compared with snow tires in heavy or loose snow. Also, all season tires fall short in acceleration and handling performance compared with summer tires in highway driving.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 533
For driving on snow-covered roads or icy roads, we recommend using snow tires. If you need snow tires, select tires of the same size, construction and load capacity as the originally installed tires. Since your vehicle has radial tires as original equipment, make sure your snow tires also have radial construction.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 533
Pro Tip: All-season tires with the M+S (Mud and Snow) marking provide moderate winter capability but fall short of dedicated snow tires (often marked with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol) in severe conditions. If you regularly encounter heavy snow or ice, dedicated snow tires are the better investment.
Maximum Speed with Snow Tires: 75 mph (120 km/h)
Source: Owner's Manual Page 439
This speed limit applies regardless of the speed rating of the snow tires themselves.
Minimum Effective Tread Depth: 0.16 in. (4 mm)
Source: Owner's Manual Page 533
If the tread on snow tires wears down below 0.16 in. (4 mm), the effectiveness of the tires as snow tires is lost.
Pro Tip: This 4mm minimum is higher than the legal minimum tread depth (typically 2/32" or ~1.6mm) because snow tires rely on deeper tread grooves to channel snow and slush. Many tire experts recommend replacing winter tires at 5/32" (4mm) rather than waiting for the wear bars.
Request repairs or replacement of snow tires from Toyota dealers or legitimate tire retailers. This is because the removal and attachment of snow tires affects the operation of the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 440
Tire chains cannot be mounted on 265/70R18 tires as the space between the tire and body is too narrow. Snow tires should be used instead.
Source: Owner's Manual Pages 439, 441
265/70R18 Owners - Your Options:
Source: Owner's Manual Page 441
Chain size is regulated for each tire size. Always verify chain compatibility with your specific tire size before purchase.
Install tire chains on the REAR TIRES ONLY. Do not install tire chains on the front tires.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 441
Why Rear Only: The Tacoma is a rear-wheel-drive-based 4WD truck. Chains go on the rear (drive) wheels to maximize traction at the power delivery point. Installing chains on front wheels can cause steering interference and is not recommended by Toyota.
Maximum Speed with Tire Chains: 30 mph (50 km/h) or the speed limit specified by the tire chain manufacturer, whichever is lower.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 439
Why the 30 MPH Limit Matters: At highway speeds, chains experience increased centrifugal force that can cause them to separate from the tire. Broken chain links become projectiles that can damage brake lines, fenders and wheel wells, ABS sensor wires, stabilizer links, and tie rods. The 30 mph limit is the threshold where chain integrity becomes compromised.
Regulations regarding the use of tire chains vary depending on location and type of road. Always check local regulations before installing chains.
R2 Chain Conditions Explained: R2 conditions (common on California mountain passes) require chains on all vehicles EXCEPT four-wheel drives equipped with snow tires on all four wheels. This means a 4WD Tacoma with proper snow tires can often bypass chain installation requirements, while 2WD vehicles must chain up.
The tire pressure warning valves and transmitters may not function correctly when tire chains are fitted.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 441
Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside temperatures:
Have a service technician inspect the condition of the battery.
Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set of tire chains for the rear tires (if not using 265/70R18 tires).
Ensure that all tires are the same size and brand, and that chains match the size of the tires.
Why Disable LTA: The LTA restriction exists because lane markings may be obscured by snow, and the system may behave unpredictably. Manual control is safer in winter conditions.
Park the vehicle and move the shift lever to P (automatic transmission) or 1 or R (manual transmission) without setting the parking brake.
The parking brake may freeze up, preventing it from being released.
If the vehicle is parked without setting the parking brake, make sure to block/chock the wheels.
For Automatic Transmission: Confirm that the shift lever cannot be moved out of P. The shift lever will be locked if it is attempted to be shifted from P to any other position without depressing the brake pedal. If the shift lever can be shifted from P without the brake pedal, there may be a problem with the shift lock system. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.
3PMSF Rating is Key for Snow Performance
All-terrain tires with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating provide significantly better winter traction than standard M+S rated tires. Top community recommendations for 4th Gen Tacoma include Falken Wildpeak AT4W (most recommended, best winter balance), BFGoodrich KO3 (excellent snow performance), and Toyo Open Country AT III (good value option).
Dedicated Winter Tires Outperform All-Terrains
While 3PMSF-rated all-terrain tires are good, they cannot match dedicated winter tire traction (Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2, Michelin X-Ice Snow) in severe conditions. If you regularly face ice and packed snow, dedicated winters are worth the investment.
Practice Before You Need It
Run through at least one or more test fits in your driveway before you actually need to use them on a cold, dark roadside. This saves time and frustration when conditions are worst.
Carry Maintenance Supplies with Chains
Keep mechanics wire and spider bungees with your chain kit to maintain proper tightness and secure loose ends during use.
Snow Socks as Alternative for Oversized Tires
For 4th Gen Tacomas with 35x12.5 or larger tires where chain clearance is questionable, snow socks (fabric traction devices) are the easiest to install and remove, with minimal risk of vehicle damage. For 285/70/17 tires, the AutoSock model AS870 is the correct size.
Installing Chains on Front Wheels
Chains should NEVER be installed on the front wheels of Tacomas - they WILL rub on the upper control arms (UCAs). This can cause steering interference and component damage.
Failing to Retighten Chains After Initial Driving
When tires rotate, chains tend to separate from the tire due to centrifugal forces. Loose chains can damage tie rods, stabilizer links, brake lines, and ABS wires. One owner reported a broken brake line from hurriedly installing chains without properly retightening them after driving.
Using Standard Chains on Oversized Tires Without Checking Clearance
For 35x12.5 R17 or larger tires, standard chains likely will not fit safely. Community members warn: "Would not try to fit anything bigger than a sock on 35x12.5 unless you can clear 37x13.5." Insufficient clearance causes chains to contact fenders, suspension components, and brake lines.
Owner's Manual Pages:
Additional Sources:
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from the owner community and authoritative sources. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 439-441, 533)
Critical Note for 265/70R18 Tire Owners: If your Tacoma is equipped with 265/70R18 tires, tire chains CANNOT be installed due to insufficient clearance between the tire and body. You must use snow tires instead.
Snow Tire Safety, Tire Chain Speed Limits, Winter Driving Rules, 4WD Requirements
WARNING - Driving with Snow Tires
Here's what matters for safe winter driving with snow tires. These aren't suggestions - skip them and you risk losing control.
- Use tires of the specified size.
- Maintain the recommended level of air pressure.
- Do not drive in excess of 75 mph (120 km/h), regardless of the type of snow tires being used.
- Use snow tires on all, not just some wheels.
- 4WD models: Do not mix tires of different makes, models, tread patterns or treadwear.
WARNING - Driving with Tire Chains (Vehicles Without 265/70R18 Tires)
Tire chains change how your truck handles. Here's what to know - these precautions keep you safe on icy mountain roads.
- Do not drive in excess of the speed limit specified for the tire chains being used, or 30 mph (50 km/h), whichever is lower.
- Avoid driving on bumpy road surfaces or over potholes.
- Avoid sudden acceleration, abrupt steering, sudden braking and shifting operations that cause sudden engine braking.
- Slow down sufficiently before entering a curve to ensure that vehicle control is maintained.
- Do not use LTA (Lane Tracing Assist) (if equipped) system.
WARNING - When Parking the Vehicle
When parking the vehicle without applying the parking brake, make sure to chock the wheels. If you do not chock the wheels, the vehicle may move unexpectedly, possibly resulting in an accident.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 441
WARNING - When Inspecting or Replacing Tires
Mixing tire types is one of the most common winter driving mistakes. Here's what can go wrong - and why Toyota is so specific about this.
- Do not mix tires of different makes, models or tread patterns. Also, do not mix tires of remarkably different treadwear.
- Do not use tire sizes other than those recommended by Toyota.
- Do not mix differently constructed tires (radial, bias-belted or bias-ply tires).
- Do not mix summer, all season and snow tires.
- Do not use tires that have been used on another vehicle. Do not use tires if you do not know how they were used previously.
Understanding Tire Types
Before selecting winter equipment, understand the three tire categories:
Summer Tires
Summer tires are high-speed performance tires best suited to highway driving under dry conditions. Since summer tires do not have the same traction performance as snow tires, summer tires are inadequate for driving on snow-covered or icy roads. For driving on snow-covered roads or icy roads, the use of snow tires is recommended.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 533
All Season Tires
All season tires are designed to provide better traction in snow and to be adequate for driving in most winter conditions as well as for use year-round. All season tires, however, do not have adequate traction performance compared with snow tires in heavy or loose snow. Also, all season tires fall short in acceleration and handling performance compared with summer tires in highway driving.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 533
Snow Tires
For driving on snow-covered roads or icy roads, we recommend using snow tires. If you need snow tires, select tires of the same size, construction and load capacity as the originally installed tires. Since your vehicle has radial tires as original equipment, make sure your snow tires also have radial construction.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 533
Pro Tip: All-season tires with the M+S (Mud and Snow) marking provide moderate winter capability but fall short of dedicated snow tires (often marked with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol) in severe conditions. If you regularly encounter heavy snow or ice, dedicated snow tires are the better investment.
Snow Tire Requirements
Selection Guidelines
- Select tires of the same size as originally installed tires
- Match construction type (radial) and load capacity to OEM specifications
- Install snow tires on ALL FOUR wheels - never just two
- Do not install studded tires without first checking local regulations for possible restrictions
Speed Limit
Maximum Speed with Snow Tires: 75 mph (120 km/h)
Source: Owner's Manual Page 439
This speed limit applies regardless of the speed rating of the snow tires themselves.
Tread Depth Requirement
Minimum Effective Tread Depth: 0.16 in. (4 mm)
Source: Owner's Manual Page 533
If the tread on snow tires wears down below 0.16 in. (4 mm), the effectiveness of the tires as snow tires is lost.
Pro Tip: This 4mm minimum is higher than the legal minimum tread depth (typically 2/32" or ~1.6mm) because snow tires rely on deeper tread grooves to channel snow and slush. Many tire experts recommend replacing winter tires at 5/32" (4mm) rather than waiting for the wear bars.
NOTICE - Repairing or Replacing Snow Tires
Request repairs or replacement of snow tires from Toyota dealers or legitimate tire retailers. This is because the removal and attachment of snow tires affects the operation of the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 440
Tire Chain Requirements
265/70R18 Restriction - CRITICAL
Tire chains cannot be mounted on 265/70R18 tires as the space between the tire and body is too narrow. Snow tires should be used instead.
Source: Owner's Manual Pages 439, 441
265/70R18 Owners - Your Options:
- Install a quality set of snow tires for winter months
- Consider a second set of wheels in a smaller size that can accept chains (consult dealer for compatibility)
- Plan routes to avoid chain-required roads when possible
Chain Sizing Specifications
| Component | Diameter |
|---|---|
| Side chain | 0.2 in. (5 mm) |
| Cross chain | 0.25 in. (6.3 mm) |
Chain size is regulated for each tire size. Always verify chain compatibility with your specific tire size before purchase.
Installation Location
Install tire chains on the REAR TIRES ONLY. Do not install tire chains on the front tires.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 441
Why Rear Only: The Tacoma is a rear-wheel-drive-based 4WD truck. Chains go on the rear (drive) wheels to maximize traction at the power delivery point. Installing chains on front wheels can cause steering interference and is not recommended by Toyota.
Installation Procedure
- Install and remove tire chains in a safe location
- Install tire chains following the instructions provided with the tire chains
- Install tire chains on the rear tires as tightly as possible
- Retighten chains after driving 1/4 - 1/2 mile (0.5 - 1.0 km)
Speed Limit with Chains
Maximum Speed with Tire Chains: 30 mph (50 km/h) or the speed limit specified by the tire chain manufacturer, whichever is lower.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 439
Why the 30 MPH Limit Matters: At highway speeds, chains experience increased centrifugal force that can cause them to separate from the tire. Broken chain links become projectiles that can damage brake lines, fenders and wheel wells, ABS sensor wires, stabilizer links, and tie rods. The 30 mph limit is the threshold where chain integrity becomes compromised.
Local Regulations
Regulations regarding the use of tire chains vary depending on location and type of road. Always check local regulations before installing chains.
R2 Chain Conditions Explained: R2 conditions (common on California mountain passes) require chains on all vehicles EXCEPT four-wheel drives equipped with snow tires on all four wheels. This means a 4WD Tacoma with proper snow tires can often bypass chain installation requirements, while 2WD vehicles must chain up.
NOTICE - Fitting Tire Chains
The tire pressure warning valves and transmitters may not function correctly when tire chains are fitted.
Source: Owner's Manual Page 441
Winter Driving Preparation
Pre-Season Preparation
Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside temperatures:
- Engine oil (winter-weight if applicable)
- Engine coolant (proper antifreeze concentration)
- Washer fluid (winter-rated, low-temperature formula)
Have a service technician inspect the condition of the battery.
Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set of tire chains for the rear tires (if not using 265/70R18 tires).
Ensure that all tires are the same size and brand, and that chains match the size of the tires.
Before Driving
- Do not try to forcibly open a window or move a wiper that is frozen. Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice. Wipe away the water immediately to prevent it from freezing.
- To ensure proper operation of the climate control system fan, remove any snow that has accumulated on the air inlet vents in front of the windshield.
- Check for and remove any excess ice or snow that may have accumulated on exterior lights, outside rear view mirrors, windows, vehicle's roof, chassis, around the tires, and on the brakes.
- Remove any snow or mud from the bottom of your shoes before getting in the vehicle.
While Driving
- Accelerate the vehicle slowly
- Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead
- Drive at a reduced speed suitable to road conditions
- Avoid sudden acceleration, abrupt steering, sudden braking
- Avoid shifting operations that cause sudden engine braking
- Slow down sufficiently before entering a curve to ensure vehicle control is maintained
- Do not use LTA (Lane Tracing Assist) system if equipped
Why Disable LTA: The LTA restriction exists because lane markings may be obscured by snow, and the system may behave unpredictably. Manual control is safer in winter conditions.
When Parking in Cold Weather
Park the vehicle and move the shift lever to P (automatic transmission) or 1 or R (manual transmission) without setting the parking brake.
The parking brake may freeze up, preventing it from being released.
If the vehicle is parked without setting the parking brake, make sure to block/chock the wheels.
For Automatic Transmission: Confirm that the shift lever cannot be moved out of P. The shift lever will be locked if it is attempted to be shifted from P to any other position without depressing the brake pedal. If the shift lever can be shifted from P without the brake pedal, there may be a problem with the shift lock system. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.
Pro Tips from the Community
Tire Selection
3PMSF Rating is Key for Snow Performance
All-terrain tires with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating provide significantly better winter traction than standard M+S rated tires. Top community recommendations for 4th Gen Tacoma include Falken Wildpeak AT4W (most recommended, best winter balance), BFGoodrich KO3 (excellent snow performance), and Toyo Open Country AT III (good value option).
Dedicated Winter Tires Outperform All-Terrains
While 3PMSF-rated all-terrain tires are good, they cannot match dedicated winter tire traction (Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2, Michelin X-Ice Snow) in severe conditions. If you regularly face ice and packed snow, dedicated winters are worth the investment.
Chain Installation
Practice Before You Need It
Run through at least one or more test fits in your driveway before you actually need to use them on a cold, dark roadside. This saves time and frustration when conditions are worst.
Carry Maintenance Supplies with Chains
Keep mechanics wire and spider bungees with your chain kit to maintain proper tightness and secure loose ends during use.
Snow Socks as Alternative for Oversized Tires
For 4th Gen Tacomas with 35x12.5 or larger tires where chain clearance is questionable, snow socks (fabric traction devices) are the easiest to install and remove, with minimal risk of vehicle damage. For 285/70/17 tires, the AutoSock model AS870 is the correct size.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Installing Chains on Front Wheels
Chains should NEVER be installed on the front wheels of Tacomas - they WILL rub on the upper control arms (UCAs). This can cause steering interference and component damage.
Failing to Retighten Chains After Initial Driving
When tires rotate, chains tend to separate from the tire due to centrifugal forces. Loose chains can damage tie rods, stabilizer links, brake lines, and ABS wires. One owner reported a broken brake line from hurriedly installing chains without properly retightening them after driving.
Using Standard Chains on Oversized Tires Without Checking Clearance
For 35x12.5 R17 or larger tires, standard chains likely will not fit safely. Community members warn: "Would not try to fit anything bigger than a sock on 35x12.5 unless you can clear 37x13.5." Insufficient clearance causes chains to contact fenders, suspension components, and brake lines.
Quick Reference
| Item | Specification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Snow tire speed limit | 75 mph (120 km/h) | Page 439 |
| Chain speed limit | 30 mph (50 km/h) max | Page 439 |
| Chain retighten distance | 1/4 - 1/2 mile (0.5-1.0 km) | Page 441 |
| Side chain diameter | 0.2 in. (5 mm) | Page 441 |
| Cross chain diameter | 0.25 in. (6.3 mm) | Page 441 |
| Snow tire min tread depth | 0.16 in. (4 mm) | Page 533 |
| Chain installation location | Rear tires only | Page 441 |
| 265/70R18 chains | NOT COMPATIBLE | Pages 439, 441 |
Source Attribution
Owner's Manual Pages:
- Winter driving preparation: Pages 439-440
- Tire chain specifications and installation: Page 441
- Tire types and tread depth: Page 533
- Safety precautions: Pages 439, 441, 533
Additional Sources:
- Tacoma4G Forum
- TacomaWorld Forum
- ToyotaNation Forum
- Rokslide Forum
- Runnin4Tacos Blog
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from the owner community and authoritative sources. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only.
