Can Off-The-Shelf Traction Aids Make a Civic As Good In The Snow As a 4x4 Grand Cherokee?

[@Bryan46162]

Excellent illustration of why it's so cringeworthy to hear people profess they don't need winter tires because they've got AWD. Being able to stop is the most important part of driving!

[@simul8guy75]

And those traction blocks and tire chins don't do much for stopping performance....

[@androiduberalles]

This video does nothing to prove/disprove that?

[@gorambo]

@@veganpotterthevegan since you know everything why don't you do a video? Haters going to hate.

[@gorambo]

@@androiduberalles What is "that"? maybe you need to rewatch the video

[@androiduberalles]

@@gorambo the video does nothing to test different tire compounds. I do not need to rewatch the video. This video -> kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2ioZHqKpcypoNU actually tests that. And their results show that all seasons + AWD is far superior to Winters + fwd in all situations except for braking.

[@johnshellenberg1383]

Excellent lesson about braking. A lot of SUV drivers get into trouble because they can get going a lot faster, but braking distances are a lot longer.

[@matbasterson2128]

The Civic has a definite advantage over the jeep in braking. probably weighs 1500+ lbs less. I've been caught out with my 4 wheel drive pickup. not due to over confidence, but because the 4 wheel drive system is so good you don't realize how slick the conditions are. I have to be more alert about that when driving in slick conditions.

[@ahodes100]

Agreed. 4 wheeled drive doesnt make any difference in breaking - only works for acceleration. a 2x4 and 4x4 cherokee would have the same breaking distance (with slightly less from 2x4 b/c of less weight)

[@dethray1000]

a i have studded tires on my ford explorer,they stop the car in a hurry--have had other cars slide right past me,lucky never been hit --i am in mountains all the time--check locations also for oil field utah,Co,Wy--they are the best for ease but i still put my tire chains on when on deep unplowed roads--never have used the sock--they look really good-i could have those on in 2 min--4 of those on a full time 4wd looks like no issue in deep snow

[@rangerover06sc]

@@ahodes100 There is literally a video showing the opposite is true, by team O'Neil. Having your front and rear axles locked together decreases your stopping distance compared to unlocked AWD systems and 2wd

[@vancouverexplorer3993]

Last year I was rear ended by a BMW X5 in my Accord. My Accord was certainly better in braking than that BMW.

[@rjhein]

It would have been nice to see how this would compare to another similar civic with designated 3 peak mountain snowflake tires, and compare that with the autosock/chains etc.

[@Theyralltakenfu]

That's a good idea, esp considering the engine size of the Jeep etc.

[@johnhryniw2488]

I agree..... put real snow tires on the civic and then compare them..... since chains (and such) are for 'emergencies' only.... whereas snow tires would be all the time (through the winter, of course.... haha).

[@stoff3r]

Chains will wear out the drivetrain, thats why you don't see any cars using them regulary.

[@rjhein]

@@stoff3rCorrect, chains are only for short term temporary use - I think they did a decent job clarifying that in the video too 😁

[@stoff3r]

@@veganpotterthevegan nah I don't believe that. If you live rural then you have 4x4 and proper tires. A Hilux with huge sidewalls can probably drive a long time with chains but it's still terrible.

[@JustinKingOffroad]

i'm legit impressed with those auto socks, always thought they were an overpriced gimic.

[@JustinKingOffroad]

@@veganpotterthevegan when I'm chaining up the vbars it takes 5-10 minutes per tire, but I'm already stuck in the snow haha.

[@rolexr]

Me too - never estimated that great result for them!!!

[@garys2157]

Never heard of them before?

[@daltonbrink9924]

@@veganpotterthevegan I pissed around for a half hour chaining up this morning. Snowin' and blowin', with about 6 inches on the road. Left side went perfect. Right side got stuck between the duals. 🤬 Damn tires are too wide! Edit: No, it was not my first time chaining up.

[@daltonbrink9924]

@@veganpotterthevegan Yeah, normally it only takes me 5-7 minutes a side. It just wasn't my morning.

[@blacktrucksfly]

Last winter I was driving up the California mountains in my GTI with chains on and had no issues at all. I was even passing by wranglers and other 4x4s that were stuck going up steep inclines. Their are better chain designs then the ones they bought but they are tricky to put on low cars with minimal gap in the wheelwell like my GTI.

[@garbinator09]

YES SIR! That was me one week AFTER purchasing my 2006 Jeep Rubicon! I was so looking forward to tackling snowy/ice conditions with my all new front rear locker equipped Mud Terrain stock tires! My friend, in a 2003 Sahara edition, running winter ONLY (See of Flakes on sidewall) snow tires stock hight, ran circles around me as all I could manage was slip slip slip going absolutely NOWHERE. I was totally embarrassed! The experienced had me going to the Internet seeking the many whys and how to differing tire patterns, including the tire compounds making tire ice snow contact stickier! Science and tech are fascinating to me as a self learner. Getting off the hard paved compact snow proved amazing! GOBS of tractor-like traction even to the point I was plowing fresh fallen snow through deep drifts like a bladed dozer! Fascinating!

[@kotter1792]

I bought my first set of blizzaks this year. I am absolutely amazed at what a proper snow tire can do. Hard to explain, you have to experience it.

[@bucknut2000]

I used to drive all across Ohio, michigan, and Pennsylvania for several years in a civic and GTI. Snow Tires , where the best investment/ safety purchase ever, the young stupid 20 something me used to go around pretending to race 4wd Audis and Subarus and SUV . I beat most people accept other winter tired cars with 4wd but that’s was rare.

[@HiroNguy]

Blizzak FTW!

[@Redhawk24]

Totally agree. A game changer.

[@thomasdavis8117]

The thing about them that's hard to describe to other people is the fact that though all tires will eventually slip on snow you feel like you have the most control over a slipping winter tire and that it's also the most predictable.

[@Redhawk24]

@@thomasdavis8117 of course any tire can. I’ve driven tens of thousands of miles on snow and I feel just as comfortable on pavement as snow with Blizzaks.

[@ouch1011]

Thank you for including the back to back part about stopping with AWD SUV vs FWD car. Very few people ever seem to think about this when they set out in their 4WD trucks or AWD SUVs/Subarus. Being able to accelerate more easily means nothing good if you’re just going to slide past a stop sign or red light at the first intersection. I learned to drive in FWD cars and I was taught to gauge the level of traction on the road by giving the car some throttle and see how easy it is to spin the tires. I had to forget that technique when I got my first AWD car because it gives you a false sense of how slippery the roads are. I now use the brakes to gauge the level of traction on the road. I consider chains an “emergency use only” type of thing because of their substantial speed limitation, their requirement of constant maintenance and tightening, and the substantial damage they do to the roads.

[@enjoylife7030]

I enjoyed this experiment. Nice to see how these products work. Definitely a positive review for the autosock, not so much the amazon block. Best part about this experiment is that it was real conditions and didn't involve those roller pad thingys that are used in the other traction tests on dry land. I understand measuring the time for comparison sake, but there are some things in life that success is simply measured by how safely you can complete a task. Just like no one needs to tow uphill at 80 miles an hour.

[@Rickmakes]

I do think the block could be useful if, for instance, a person was stuck in a shallow ditch. If you can't move, you can't install the sock or chains. You could still install the block and potentially get moving enough to free yourself.

[@Redhawk24]

My ‘05 Corolla with Blizzaks is better in the snow than my 4Runner with all seasons. Good winter tires are a game changer.

[@chrish6373]

Winter tires, and brand, will get you 90% of the way there. Blizzaks are a 10/10 tire for sure.

[@MemphisMojo15s]

Damian Stoy cool story...

[@Redhawk24]

@@MemphisMojo15s thanks…

[@Redhawk24]

@notAdvised simply not true. You’ve never driven on premium winter tires before. I live at 7800 feet and drive on snow 6+ months a year. I drive a f150 work truck and many other 4wd vehicles. Winter tires are a game changer.

[@Redhawk24]

@notAdvised and how exactly does that AWD help you stop on snow or ice?

[@hege750]

My traction aid is Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 studded winter tyres. I mount them somewhere late October, early November and change back to summer tyres in March or April - depending how long the winter is.

[@CarolReidCA]

We aren't allowed to use studded tires in California, as they are apparently concerned about the roads. They do work well, though.

[@rickm8456]

Teaching my daughter how to drive last week in the snow, I said those exact words “4wd helps you get going, but doesn’t help to stop.”

[@alansach8437]

In my half a century of driving in snow and ice I have seen far more 4wd vehicles in the ditch than 2wd with chains. I think the reason is that chains do one simple thing that 4wd does not: they make you slow down!

[@hubster4477]

Plus they're probably going slower because of the chains.

[@andrewsnow7386]

I love my 4X4s, but I have often said that on maintained (plowed) roads, a 2wd with chains will get you anywhere a 4wd or AWD will get you. So, I'm glad to see you do this test. But in the future, maybe you can use a slightly different test. criteria? "How fast can I get somewhere" is a criteria that is really stacked against any traction aid because, as you noted, traction aids aren't designed for high speeds. Maybe you can find progressively steeper hills to drive until one vehicle doesn't make it up. PS - Doing more videos like this can also demonstrate that with even minimal practice, the tire chains will go on a lot faster. I mean look at the video at 9:18 - I'm sure you corrected that installation before you ran the test, as they would not have stayed on that way. But it demonstrates that a lot of time can be saved once you understand how the lever fasteners are supposed to be used.

[@davidnacy1324]

I've got snow tires on my Crosstrek...love it in the winter...never had a problem getting through the deepest roughest snow

[@bindingcurve]

Unless there is so much powder that the car is lifted to the point it cant touch the ground (ask how I know)

[@tweeder06]

Would love to see the civic on snows and the GC on K02's or some other three mountain peak all-terrain

[@C10sRule]

The 4wd/AWD would still outperform the FWD as you have described,,,,, especially in the conditions today and KO2s. I can speak from personal experiences.

[@kpokfposkf]

don't think AT tires offer the tire size for the civic, but my AW (all weather) tires went up the the mountains/ski resorts fine on a FWD, didn't feel unsafe one bit or didn't get stuck, the video is in essence pointless IMO since FWD+AW/Winter tires > AWD+AS, it's been proven since decades ago. I guess snow socks offer similar traction to winter tires? But for the sake of "safe braking", just get AW or winter tires please.

[@chrish6373]

@@kpokfposkf Out of curiosity I checked. Nope! 215/65/16 is the smallest AT I could find, and the Civic's 215/55/16 would mean 1.5" taller tires.

[@kpokfposkf]

@@chrish6373 Coming from an AWD SUV with AT tires, a FWD with AW tires get better traction on snow and ice, it's not even up for debate.

[@craigquann]

AWD would spank it in acceleration, braking would go to the dedicated snows.

[@alanhassall]

I prefer snow tires and steel wheels on my Civic to all seasons on my 2001 Ford F-150. Considering that I save my all season tires for non-winter driving, the cost isn’t too bad. I don’t have to replace the all season tires as soon because they don’t see snow and ice.

[@glamdring0007]

Great video. Would really have liked to see the Civic with Blizzaks as a "best case" benchmark.

[@evoemperor3776]

I don't think that civic can beat the Cherokee even in dry road.

[@User.Joshua]

Yeah, it’s an odd comparison. They should have used the same model that has an AWD option.

[@nicolasbozzo2364]

They could have tested a mazda3 awd vs fwd. or a camry awd and fwd…

[@scatcanbeatmaserati6480]

@@User.Joshua lmfao

[@أسفار]

😂😂😂

[@donproduction6248]

All season tires are useless in the snow. That’s why they are illegal in Canada during the winter.

[@rzu7120]

If chains come loose, they can really tear things up. I wonder how many miles those socks are rated for?

[@billredding2000]

Not long, I'm sure. ;-) But if you only use them to get unstuck -- drive SLOWLY and don't spin the tires (much like using traction/recovery-boards) -- they may last for quite a few "emergency" uses. Still, I'd prefer chains, as they're amazing (used them in TX and NM on RWD vehicles) and very durable...will be getting a pair of square-ling chains for my Jeep Gladiator (for the front tires only when in 4WD). Putting another pair on the rear tires -- if REALLY needed (!) -- would be as good as it's going to get. -- BR (Colorado)

[@DavidSanchez-ib4ft]

A word of advice from someone who's used chains on a slammed 97 Tacoma to get home a a road that was bypassed during heavy snow in favor of keeping the main highway clear. When using chains put them on as tight as you can. Drive 20 feet forward and then 20 feet back. This will naturally loosen the chains(usually 1-2 links) and tighten the cam again and put the rubber tensioner back on. You won't hear that annoying chain slap they were hearing as it hit their inside fender liner. And no, you shouldn't drive faster than 45 mph while they're on. Faster than that and you could get enough centrifugal force to cause the cam and tensioners to pop loose.

[@michaelgregory903]

Very useful, thanks for sharing. I'm glad you shows the braking as well... its scary how many people i've talked to who legitimately thought 4WD/AWD helped for stopping as well when in fact it does not help. Now I want to see how proper winter tires on the Civic do, and maybe those super praised Michelin Cross Climate 2 all seasons. The ultimate guide to where to spend your money if you are stuck with 2WD.

[@dillonhaley661]

I have a '18 civic hatch with the cross climate 2s and live in Colorado. Can confirm they are awesome. Car feels like a beast in the snow, whereas the OEM all seasons like in the video were complete trash

[@RikAindow]

If you're really stuck, try reversing the front wheel drive car up the hill. It puts more weight over the front wheels and does help with traction. Interesting video though.

[@EnthusiastCarHangar]

Interesting video for sure. I would always recommend designated winter tires though if you live somewhere where it snows. I got some on my Explorer (in my content) and they make a huge difference.

[@onefastboi14]

I got designated snow tires for my rwd car. Michelin X Ice Snow tires along with chains. Tires are super important and even if you have awd if you got crappy tires it won’t be near as helpful

[@EnthusiastCarHangar]

@@onefastboi14 I agree. I had to get Pirellis due to the 21” and availability for the Explorer but they are so much better than the AS tires it came with.

[@themikeroberts]

Since snow tires have worse dry and wet braking, I wouldn't recommend them for all areas where it snows as even though I live in a snowy climate, the roads are wet or dry much more often than they're snowy. I use Michelin crossclimate 2 as they're the only no compromise tire - great dry, wet, snow, and ice performance and great or good fuel efficiency, noise, and tread life.

[@johnross6314]

Why not test dedicated winter tires like Blizzaks. Tire Rack has a garage rack to keep whatever tires/wheels are stored for the off season. Works great. Dedicated winter tires are the best method, IMO.

[@TFLcar]

You mean like this: All-Season Vs. All-Weather Vs. Snow Tire: You'll Be SHOCKED How Different They Are In The Snow! kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGPTfoJ6nM1pmKc

[@johnross6314]

@@TFLcar yes…. As applied to the test here between light front wheel drive, verses full sized SUV that is designed to handle snow with all around tires. Thanks for the reply. I had already “linked” the video in your link and saved it for archive reference.

[@DrRyan82994]

dang the braking distance difference is kind of insane. considering half of the cars on the road weigh about as much as the jeep and run all seasons. I'll stop in time in my civic just to be reliably rear ended by an SUV

[@sphaera3809]

Tire aids are very effective for sure. Many eons ago, I went up a hill road covered in snow to a ski village in the southern French Alps. I had a borrowed Honda Fit (called Jazz in France) with regular tires and chains on the front tires. I had no issues and never got stuck. I remember the chains I had being much easier to install though, I didn’t have to roll the car over it…

[@billredding2000]

You recall correctly: They put the chains on wrong here. -- BR

[@HiroNguy]

What If... the Civic had actual snow tires like Blizzaks?

[@SarabLoh]

What if they didnt replace the jeeps stock all terrains with garbage street tires

[@bindingcurve]

@@SarabLoh Lots of all terrains are NOT designed for the snow. Most lack the proper snipping and will not grab properly. The compound is usually harder in cold weather as well.

[@riekopo7638]

You need to test composite chains like Michelin easy grip.

[@spencjon4822]

I grew up in the mountains and have only owned fwd cars. I go up the mountains about every weekend for some snow sport or other. I rented a Subaru Outback for a season and did not find a difference until there was 2 inches of fresh snow on the road. My Ford Fiesta with snow tires has never let me down with anything I wanted to do. I love the regulations Oregon has for chain/traction tires. The law doesn’t care if you have awd for main roadways. as long as you have traction tires, (they must have the mountain peaks with snow flake symbol) you’re good to go. When I was in Washington, an awd with all-seasons was (according to the regulations) better than a fwd car with snow tires. I really wish more states would adopt actual traction tire laws.

[@C10sRule]

When I was a kid and 4wd was kind of rare and considered really expensive. (The days when a loaded truck air/tilt/cruise/stereo/power windows & locks, that it!) we had several work trucks for ourselves and the crew (10+) so usually had 2 x 4wd and the rest RWD. We would have chains on the rwd models pretty much as long as there was snow. They lasted longer than you would think and drastically improved the traction. There was no traction control or ABS back then so the 4wd was better still, but in some conditions, like really deep snow, it was pretty close or the chains were better. Now this was in the corrals and in the pastures. The majority being off-road. There was never a problem with clearance or wheel damage, but in really hard winters we would damage the rear tires sidewalls pretty bad. It would cost a couple of hundred dollars (if that) for a pair of rear tires in the spring. Always heavy grip tires going on the back. Those were the days!!! I still often take my 67 C10 RWD with a G80 rear differential and 3:42 gears. I have a set if winter tires on all 4 wheels. It does well enough and with all the experience I have, I am not concerned. (The truck has 4 wheel power disc brakes vs the 4 wheel manual drum brakes it originally had). As proven here 4wd doesn’t help you stop!!!!

[@ls1powered240sx]

Years ago I used to put snow chains (cables) on my 240SX because it was my only car and I drove it for many years that way I remember passing f-150s that were stuck in the snow just chugging through with my chains.. and the 240 was probably one of the worst in the snow without the chains.

[@marcdenlinger5282]

Another great video! Thanks for putting the time in to show the differences in winter traction aides!

[@grey-adventures]

Perhaps a set of dedicated snow tire. With snow tires there is no issue with FWD

[@jfkusa123]

What I’ve always wanted to see is awd with a regular all season tire vs fwd with snow tires. Kind of looking is it worth if you had to choose the money into awd and added fuel cost or to a set of snow tires.

[@RKmndo]

I bought a slightly-used 2016 Crosstrek for less than what a similar Civic costs. It can average 40-45MPG on my 50mile commute. I don't feel like I gave up much in economy by getting an AWD. The Crosstrek also has 9"+ of ground clearance now (with 225/60R17 all-weather AT tires), sturdy roofrails, a hatch, a rubberized cargo area, a smoooooth boxer motor, and 1500lb of towing capacity. The ride is surprisingly good for such a small econocar that has pretty composed handling. That is probably largely due to the Crosstrek's 3000lb+ curb weight. Yes, it's a bit of a chunky bugger. Aftermarket support isn't as good as some gens of Civic, but I can find a turbo kit, high-flow airfilters, intake spacers, exhaust, adjustable suspension, 2" receiver hitch, skid & rocker armor, winchmounts, and a rear diff-locker. Similar to the Civic, the Crosstrek is a product of Japanese engineering, and I'm a fan of Japanese autos after owning a few Jeep CJs and a YJ. I've liked my Civic, Accord, SX4, and Highlander, and I'm now thoroughly enjoying my Crosstrek, living in snowcountry, near offroading/camping areas.

[@jfkusa123]

@@RKmndo agreed that you can find awd fuel efficient options. Just something I’ve always wondered. Glad it sounds like you love your crosstrek that much.

[@RKmndo]

@@jfkusa123 Crosstreks also come with 17" or 18" wheels, but the brake calipers will fit inside 15" wheels to use economical winter tires or aggressive offroad tires if you're driving much on VERY nasty surfaces. The boxer engines (2.0L or 2.5L) and CVT are...different, but I'm getting pleasantly accustomed to them. Corolla and many other FWD econocars are also using CVTs now, but Subaru's CVTs use a chain, rather than a belt. Crosstreks are also available with a 6spd manual, but then a sunroof or 180HP 2.5L is unavailable.

[@dethray1000]

my wife drove front wh dr only for many years in the mountains of ut--we always had studded tires--they go anywhere and stop very well too

[@androiduberalles]

I'd say you probably need to factor wheels into that cost too. Unless you really want to spend $100+ mounting/unmounting tires each year.

[@Buell1906]

How times have changed! Two guys in snow country don't know how to install tire chains! Wow! Chains work well in mud too.

[@joevsyou]

I think I like the blocks better... something you can buy cheap enough & toss in your spare tire well. & use if ever get stuck to get out of a hole. The fact you can put it on in 30 seconds is nice. The sock is interesting though!

[@markschommer7407]

Agreed. The tire blocks are there to get you out a situation. Not to drive on for miles on end.

[@325xitgrocgetter]

I put Blizzaks on my Chevy Volt...and I'm pretty happy with the traction with acceleration, cornering and braking.

[@AldermanFredCDavis]

Lived and been driving in the metro NYC area for 35 years. I can count on one hand the number of times that major roads have been "undriveable" to the point of needing chains. Matter of fact, I cannot recall ever seeing a passenger vehicle with snow chains on it. I overstand that there are people like nurses, firefighters, physicians, etc. who "HAVE" to go to work, but I don't have that type of job. If my all-terrain tires won't get me there, then I'm not going. Never used chains, but it certainly seems like a major league PITA. Knew a guy in the 1990's (very well), who drove a 1995 Honda Civic (in the metro NYC area) in EVERY type of snow imaginable. I am 112% positive he was riding on whatever tires the car left the factory with. Half a lifetime ago, I worked with a guy in upstate New York who swore that his 1990-something Saturn was THE best thing on 4 wheels in the snow. 4WD/AWD is GREAT.......I have a 4WD vehicle myself, but I think the overwhelming majority of people grossly overestimate what they "need" to drive in snow. Never been stuck in the snow, even prior to having 4WD.

[@thenum1379]

Awesome to see you guys testing Autosocks! I used these on a Prius in Flagstaff a few years back and was very impressed with ease of install and functionality. I wonder how long they last though.

[@ModernSurvivalists]

I was wondering the same on whether they wear out quickly.

[@sureshot234]

How was driving up the hill to Snowbowl if you've taken it up there. It would be my exact drive in a Civic hatchback but live down in Phoenix. Just wondering what it might be like

[@TheKingkingg]

Awesome show, thanks for sharing. In northern Ontario Canada I use Nokian Rotiiva AT on my Ridgeline trucks and MDX with no issues. I use Nokian H3 on my Civic and Accord 2.0T and have no real issues except we get snow 20 cm or more with bottom out. We had 40 cm recently and my 2018 Ridgeline plowed through no problem, but left Accord at mall parking lot over night because I didn't want to damage body, but traction was very good

[@fatguyonthc]

Would be cool to see how the Civic does on some Hakkapeliittas vs the Jeep with all seasons. I pass a lot of AWDs in my 2wd Tundra on my way to Timberline.

[@alanhassall]

Since both vehicles have all-wheel braking, the lighter vehicle has a good chance of winning. Very few people think of that when they set off in their four wheel drive vehicles.

[@craigquann]

Not always. Weight can actually help as the down pressure increases friction/grip. Like adding sand bags to the rear of a pickup.

[@Malc664]

On a hill maybe but downforce can help with traction. Some extreme rock crawlers fill their tyres with water.

[@1m-a-n1nja]

"Four Wheel Drive does not mean Four Wheel Stop" is one of the most powerful and true statements of the car world. Yeah yeah yeah all 4 wheels have brakes, not the point though. Winter Tires are always going to be the best for stopping. AWD is best for getting up a hill and to get going, but Winter Tires are to turn and stop.

[@alanhassall]

@@Malc664 I guess that is why 18 wheelers stop so quickly. High weight and lots of tires. Got it.

[@Dia1Up]

@@craigquann but you also have much more weight to try to get to stop. Sometimes it helps sometimes it doesn't. If weight really helped you stop, you'd see semi-trucks stop on a dime

[@housepianist]

Thanks for the hard work and effort in putting all this together in those challenging conditions.

[@akilghosh]

You should first put the chain over the tires , tuck them in the front and drive a little then hook at the back. The process is much better and faster

[@billredding2000]

It's like they know nothing about chains...and they live in Colorado. :-( -- BR

[@lanceripplinger8352]

Really good job guys! I've seen those "auto socks" at the tire store, but never seen them used. I wonder what the life expectancy is on those, i.e. how many times can they be used.

[@ednafronkelbarger8601]

One big issue is that they can only be used on snow. They get torn up on pavement. So if you're alternating between snow covered patches and bare patches, you may get some holes in them. I'd recommend getting one of the brands which are thicker and tougher and can be used on alternating surfaces (ISSE Super; Matte Auto Super X and Extra Pro)

[@ScottWallace5]

This was exactly what I was looking for with testing the various traction aids in the snow. The tire sock seemed fascinating, might have to pick one up just in case and much easier to put on than chains too.

[@ToymakersToolbox]

I'm the guy who took the chains out and installed them in my driveway as soon as I got home. TBH when I lived in Colorado I never bothered, but after moving to a mountain town in Oregon where the snow's wetter and there's more ice, I knew I might actually need to use them because chain restrictions on the passes even with three-peak rated traction tires is a regular occurrence. So... yeah, it depends where you are, what kind of snow you're dealing with, and how much practice you get.

[@Genesis23OPB]

Finally some decent video about how to install on low clearance car. i can barely fit my hands in the front fender so normal chains are somewhere between impossible to very hard to put on

[@yogi05lc]

Also, it says not to use chains, at least for the accord sport and civics, with the 18in wheels. I just ordered snow socks because of the fear of damaging th wheel well

[@miguelbaeza65]

I own a 06 Accord and it has Crossclimate 2 tires. They're an all weather tire. Yesterday my area got dumped with 8" of snow and the car just drove like a normal with that much snow. I lost a bit of traction when going, but the grip was so great. Braking was also great, ABS never was used even though I was braking like what i normally brake in dry conditions. Saw many vehicles (2WD) getting stuck or not getting traction on the road, while I saw AWD vehicles having trouble braking or going slowly to avoid braking at high speeds.

[@ericcrockett479]

The socks work well in the rockies where snow is powdery but they don't work as well in the heavy wet slushy snow. Definitely a much better option for modern vehicles with small tolerances between the tire and fender. Personally I'm more old school with chains and one quite a few occasions I have put chains on the back of my 2wd truck and have had better traction and go better in snow than 4wd vehicles, also have better braking on snow than plain tires as well. Another plus for me for tire chains is they can be used in mud as well, being on a farm it's also quite handy. I do really like the rubber blocks as they are just ment to get you unstuck not as a driving traction aid. I have seen that type of traction aid advertised before by a company called Truck Claws but they are made for heavy commercial trucks

[@Away907]

I happened to drive FWD Mazda CX-9 and AWD VW Atlas over the same snowy mountain routes during the winter seasons. In the hardcore snow blizzards with layers of ice and fresh snow on the road or just in deep snow FWD+chains performed better. VW Atlas on M+S tires works best in mild conditions, just because I was able to go comfortably with speeds of over 40mph. But there were also roads that I was able to handle on FWD Mazda + chains, but Atlas was struggling on M+S tires, forcing me to put chains on it as well. When you get a layer of ice under the snow, standard tires literally provide zero traction, no matter how many wheels are spinning. Chains are cracking thru the smooth ice surface and get you moving slowly at least. Still, AWD will be my choice over FWD+chains.

[@robertheinkel6225]

When I lived up north, I always bought a dedicated set of snow tires, mounted on rims. The only time I got stuck was hitting a three foot snowdrift, and got high centered. I enjoyed pulling out stuck 4WD trucks with my 2WD rear wheel drive van.

[@jsco8692]

Your prowess continues to grow. Great. I can't believe your span of reviews.

[@dathyr1]

Maybe the aids will help in certain situations, but in some states we are not allowed to have chained tires on the normal highways. Didn't there also used to be studded winter tires which I think they were banned by damaging the highways/roads during non winter conditions. I remember hearing them on big Semi Trucks long ago. Plus if you are stuck in the snow, how could I put on these aids by myself if the car cannot be moved. Downhill stops: just be aware and know "how and when" to stop with the car you are driving while coming up to other cars or intersections going downhill. I always use some extra distance when it comes to ice and snow. Don't expect to stop on a dime. I would still invest in an AWD vehicle living in Northern Illinois in the winter time. Now there maybe situations that no car can get out of in the winter. But I like these tests you did. Thanks allot. take care.

[@01gtbdaily30]

I agree with many of the commenters that the same test should be done with comparable vehicles of the same model with only Fwd Vs Awd being the only difference.

[@kingwat4344]

And not full throttling on every test. Who the fk will drive like that. lol

[@01gtbdaily30]

@@kingwat4344 spinning tires without traction control on is how you get through snow .

[@ignasanchezl]

BTW diamond tire chains are super easy to install, one person job. You might fiddle with them the first time, but they slide from the back of the wheel and don't require you to drive over them.

[@LionRunner]

Does the Grand Cherokee 4wd system act more like an AWD system vs like a 4WD Truck on 4H? I mean does the Grand Cherokee give engine power / engine braking to all 4 wheels when the foot off the gas like a 4WD truck / SUV on 4H or does the Grand Cherokee act more like a 2wd when foot off the gas? For example when you put 4H on your Wrangler it forces front and rear to spin at the same speed vs an AWD with an electro magnetic coupling / clutch does not force front and rear to spin at the same speed. They only rely on ABS programming.

[@rangerover06sc]

No it doesn't 4 high locks the front and rear axles together, which has been shown to decrease stopping distances. In the Jeep its unlocked, meaning the front and rear axles can spin at entirely different speeds. It has a lockable geared center differential, so it always powers 4 wheels. Like a Subaru WRX STI

[@peaceandrelaxationwithgodscrea]

I've always wondered about this, thanks guys, but i would of rather seen the best snow tires on the civic vs 4wd

[@gorambo]

Well then this video is not for you. News Flash! winter tires are better in the snow than all season tires.

[@TheYellowSchoolBusDude]

They aren't allowed to change the stock tires out on a review loaner

[@alexharshman7025]

Ground clearance. If you get stuck on the frame/subframe, well, you know, what kind of tires, how many of those tires are spinning, and what kind of systems you have controlling the tires spinning dont mean crap

[@canadian1233]

I was really impressed by the performance of those AutoSocks !!! They really are a great alternative to winter tires or all-weather tires for people who live in an area that has mostly green grass all winter long and only get an occasional snowstorm once every month or two.

[@bernardhossmoto]

Great video, the Autosocks suprised me. I alone can mount four Pewag Snox Pro chains on my AWD vehicle in 5 minutes and they are REAL chains, self tightening, self centering.

[@greathornedowl3644]

Thank you Tommy and Alex, great review of products with an average car.

[@macnottsuk]

Some times we get carried away with gimmicky stuff. All you need is a two lengths or rope in your boot. Thread through the spokes and round the tyres 5 mins job, one person and your moving. Used them for years and in drifts too. Never got stranded. And hell of a cost saving on the gimmicks.

[@RicardoRoams]

Nice informative video. I own a Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk. In January 2020 I wanted to go to Yosemite. I tried to buy chains in Merced but the tire store didn't have my size. But they did have the tire socks. I'd never heard of them so I bought them reluctantly. I ended up not using them. But it's nice to know that when the time comes I can use them with confidence. Thanks.

[@SuperV8driver]

Why dont use quick car chains like pewax snox or pewag brenta? Installed in under 1 minute and not as rattly as the heap qierd us iron chains?

[@neilmurphy845]

The only way to drive in bad weather is with proper winter tyres and good traction control system

[@WatsitTooyah]

If theres anything I learned from college physics, its that the coefficient of friction is slightly higher when the contact surfaces are not slipping against each other. It did look like the civic was holding back but not enough. but you'll have better traction if you ease into it. When you got in the civic and said "full throttle" I spat out my coffee. It was a bad scenario for starting from a stop to be fair.

[@gorambo]

Just recently purchased a pair of socks, not these exactly, glad to see the test results go in favor of the socks.

[@JustAnotherHo]

it's a cool video. I love all the TFL videos and channels. I am from Canada, and in general I drive on paved roads which eventually get plowed. I drive on a lot of hills due to my house being on a rather steep hill, and my town in general has a lot of hills. I literally never want to drive in the snow without winter tires. Heck, I would get studded tires if my part of the country would legally allow for them. I drive a FWD sedan as a daily, and honestly, I've never been stuck in my life. However yeah, AWD / 4WD with a dedicated winter tires is always nice to have. In general, I keep chains in trunk/back in case of emergencies, a shovel and some kitty litter. An old blanket and extra coat in my back seat, and a few snacks and some water in case I just straight up get stuck. I even keep a CAA membership (Canada's version of AAA)

I'm using michelin easy grip. Something between snow chains and snow socks. Not cheap but it does the trick very well. One case when they are not good is uphill ice.

[@TheSirviceroy]

How is is the we pay hundreds for decent snow chains in Europe, you have not considered these models? They are comparatively simple to mount and self tightening, can be operated by one person and are good for speeds up to 30 mp/h.

[@Marker-er3ro]

I have the better, slightly more expensive chain model and you can put them on without moving the car in about 5-10 mins. But I’m also that guy who put them on in the garage at home when I first got them, so there’s that…

[@c.j.ravensfan8374]

Can we put snow tires on the civic next?

[@Dan17890]

Seriously lol

[@aldo90731]

I’ll bet Honda never expected you’d be using their press car like this LOL

[@Emilthehun]

My favorite on my fwd car is winter tires. They are awesome and shine on icy roads

[@d.b.cooper]

Curious about what the Hondas owners manual says regarding tire chains. Most new front wheel drive sedans and coops clearly say do not use tire chains as damage to brakes and other critical components are likely.

[@borisscepanovic1684]

As far as I know they allow tire chains to be used on rear wheels only.But if you have fwd then you have to do what you have to do,I guess.

[@travisevans2549]

@@borisscepanovic1684Even on a lot of AWD vehicles the manual specifies chaining front wheels only (2013 Ford Escape, 2013 Lexus 350). The only vehicle I chain on the rear is my RWD truck.

[@caifan444]

That next video with the winter tires would be awesome

[@Doc1855]

I wonder how the Sock would do on our Subie’s. We live 5 miles from town up in the mountains. We get 5-6 feet of snow every winter and live on a private road that we have to plow and maintain ourselves. The county road that we have to drive to town is the last road the county plows. Often times we’re pushing the snow with our bumpers into town. Once we get on highway 2 the state tries to keep up with the snow. I’m thinking I’ll buy a set for both our Outback and our Forester. Thanks for the review Guys, I appreciate it !

[@alanj7306]

I thought the socks 🧦 looked so stupid at first, but I was impressed. They actually work really well. I still question their durability compared to the chains ⛓. Those blocks must have a terrible ride, but they’re cheap and with work in a pinch.

[@Whateva67]

I’ve got Michelin X ice snows on my ‘14 civic and they work pretty damn good,I drive a lot from British Columbia to Alberta and back for work in the winter.

[@franksmith8210]

Should have run the GC up three hill again at the end. Every time you make a pass up you plow the snow out and pack it in making it easier to drive on.

[@StevenLaFrance]

I saw that tow piglet uses these and i tried them a few years ago over chains and i can tell you the socks work really well, I still have chain just in case but the socks are great

[@Todd_S]

The new Civic looks way better than previous generations. They are awesome in the snow too. I drove my 2004 Civic all over northern Utah over a decade ago with just winter tires. Never got stuck, even on unplowed roads near Park City.

[@eppyz]

FWD with proper tires do pretty well in most situations. Keep in mind folks, the beauty of AWD is mainly to get you going. It doesn't help you stop.

[@bindingcurve]

RWD works fine with tires, you just have to know how to drive and not just steer a car.

[@MoneyShot_CM]

Nice work guys, great experiment

[@ohioguy4326]

Before awd became popular fwd was considered the go to for winter weather driving.

[@chrisgasmith]

I have snow tires on my civic and they have been amazing. When I was looking at chains for it though the owners manual was explicit on not using chains with the civic. I think it has to do with the space between the tire and the wheel well

[@dethray1000]

my explorer has tight space also--i use the bungies and make sure you have the chains on right,tight-cable chains--but i have steel chains too and never use them--oil field surveyor in utah,co,wy...drive heavy snow roads--you get on even 1 ft of snow and any grade without chains your done--pulled many pick-ups out ,they have no chains,nice snow tires but ineffective in heavier snow

[@hueypilot1950]

Good video. Scientifically done. Your viewers might look at other vids where snow tires are on the front only, very dangerous. Vehicles swap ends even at mild speeds in curves. Putting chains on after getting stuck would be a Bitc*. 2 sets of the blocks would be my choice in case of getting stuck. I am going to give you 5 stars on a scale of one to four, just for doing this in the cold.

[@ednafronkelbarger8601]

Here's my Very Old Person take: When I worked at the University of Cincinnati, I was the person in my office who was designated to always come in on days when the University was closed due to snow, in order to keep critical functions working. Cincinnati is a very hilly city, and the university was on top of a hill with extremely steep, long uphill roads coming at it from 3 sides. I always made it in, on every snow day, no matter how bad the roads were. I drove a 2001 Hinda Civic with the best snow chains I could get. They worked so well, I sometimes went out of my way to go up the longest, steepest street (*) just for the fun of it. (*) Straight Street. The local joke is it has that name because it goes straight up. These days, I drive an awd soft-roader. Since I live in the Mojave Desert, where it has only snowed twice in the last 15 years in my area, I can't justify the expense of snow tires, especially as my retiree income has lost so much ground to inflation. My vehicle is one of the many these days where the owners manual tells me not to use chains. So, for the rare occasions when I'm up in the mountains in the snow, I use snow socks. They work very well, both for going and for stopping. in 5-6 inches of snow. I would not rely on them in any especially heavy snow. I'd just stay home instead. One issue is that the great majority of them can only be used on snow but not on pavement. They will get torn up on pavement. That's a problem when you're alternating between snow covered sections and bare sections, and it's a bigger problem when chains-required laws kick in and you're required to have them on before you get to the snow covered sections. That's why I'd recommend getting one of the few snow socks which are made thicker and tougher so that they can be used on both pavement and snow, as long as you stick to the specified maximum speed. The ones I know of are the ISSE Super model socks, and the Matte Auto Super X and Extra Pro models. The Matte Extra Pro is the only one I know of which is rated for snow, pavement, and terrain. I'm a total klutz, with arthritis, and I can put the socks on my vehicle in about 8-10 minutes for all 4 tires. It takes 30 seconds to remove them.

[@garnetheron4885]

Took my mini Cooper to the snow years ago I did install them in my garage before leaving my house I also took a jack hydraulic jack jack the car up in the snow I installed it really quick with the jack

[@grisa12345]

I wonder how many times the sock would last before ripping to pieces. Snow tires FTW.

[@azndood]

Auto sock usually lasts for about a few seasons. They tend to fall apart when they dry out post winter if you don't properly wash and store them and will rip apart if you drive them onto drier land (i.e. asphalt/ dirt).

[@Yophillips3272]

Thanks for showing the importance of turning traction control off.

[@numbnutz9398]

I would love to have seen the Civic with some good winters. We have some Xice on my daughters 2019 civic and it handles a Canadian Prarie winter very well for such a low car. But our 10 year old CRV with DMV2s far out perform it. Fortunately we don't have a ton of snow so nobody really uses traction aids here. Ice and hardpack snow/ice and -30° Temps rule the day so most people run winter tires.

[@simul8guy75]

Seriously? Never thought of a top rated set of snow tires? I wouldn't use ANY of those "traction aids" you demonstrated on my car....

[@6193drizzle]

Something tells me you boys are familiar with using a “Sock”

[@codyschmid6807]

It seems like the problem with the sock is that whatever tire you do have is useless. If you have studded snow tires with the sock then it takes away the capability of the tire. If you have studded snow tires with chains, the tire and chains both still provide traction.

[@dannysautorepair]

Very good video and information, I ordered the snow socks already and I also have snow tires. Great job

[@gregferris9378]

Back in the early '70s a friend of mine had a Saab that he couldn't put chains on it so he got a cable type system that looked like chains. That thing was a mountain goat in the hills.

[@rpmrallysport7071]

I had snow cables (not chains) for a front wheel drive years ago - nowhere I couldn't go. Higher speed than chains.

[@michih2895]

Usually I love your videos and tests ... this one not :-) . Just try to drive a few miles with autosocks in winter conditions: snow, ice, tarmac. They get worn very fast. Your snowchains are cheap junk. Try products from premium manufacturers. Better chain links for more grip and durability, alloy wheel savers, more userfriendly, no need to tighten after first few miles. No worry about car or wheel damage. Would be cool if you have Pewag or Koenig chains in your test. Regards Mike

[@dethray1000]

we use pewag on our heavy trucks--they are the best,made of tungsten,we do oil field work,utah,wy,some colo

[@carscigarsscotchnwatches5158]

Good comparison. I live in a hilly part of Littleton colorado and the only thing that will get my daughter up our hills in her FWD car is winter tires like Michelin X-Ice snows. Would have been interesting to see how a dedicated winter tire would have fared.

[@mrdark9916]

All i can say that my FWD cars have always been excellent during my MANY hard North Idaho winters. I use Dedicated studded and syped Snow tires (Blizzaks) and in my experience FWD is the king when it comes to maintaining control over your vehicle as well as stopping the vehicle when you really need to stop it NOW, and thus getting where you need to go safely. Ill take a FWD car with my snow tires over AWD/4WD with all season tires lol. Any day.

[@themallard1515]

I agree 100%. As a Wisconsinite I have owned mostly front wheel drive cars, but I also have owned one all-wheel-drive SUV. The all-wheel-drive SUV had stock all season tires on it. I was honestly scared by it, the thing was absolutely worthless in the snow. Meanwhile my Corolla with snow tires on it is an absolute beast. The corolla far out performs that all wheel drive SUV hands-down. When the going gets very tough I carry tire chains. And that makes it even better. I would never purchase another all-wheel-drive. Total waste of money