Northern Arizona residents and visitors know winter driving is unpredictable. Conditions can suddenly vary from light snow in Cottonwood to heavy snow around Flagstaff and the Mogollon Rim. “Do I need chains on my tires?” is a common question at Heath’s Auto Repair in Cottonwood. Answer depends on where you’re driving, your vehicle, and weather severity.
Knowing Arizona Tire Chain Requirements
No state legislation requires tire chains in Arizona in winter, unlike other northern states. When conditions are dangerous, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) can require tire chains or other traction devices, especially on steep, icy mountain highways like Interstate 17, State Route 87, and Highway 89A toward Sedona or Flagstaff. You must comply with “Chains Required” signs or be turned around or punished.
As you move north from Cottonwood into higher elevations, you should always carry chains, especially if you drive a two-wheel-drive car or light truck. Chains provide you piece of mind when conditions suddenly deteriorate, even if you never use them.
Chains Are Recommended When
- Tire chains are advised for most Northern Arizona winter drivers in these situations:
- Heavy snowfall or icy roads: Chains improve traction over two inches.
- Mountain Driving: Even in moderate Cottonwood, Mingus Mountain, Flagstaff, and the Mogollon Rim often have cold temperatures and black ice.
- Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles: Without all-wheel or four-wheel drive, chains can save you from slipping into a ditch.
In normal winter circumstances, all-wheel or four-wheel drive cars may not need chains. For long-distance winter excursions, chains are recommended since even AWD vehicles might lose traction on steep climbs.
Alternatives to Chains
When driving in mild snow or mixed circumstances, you may prefer snow or all-weather tires. Improved traction without chain installation is possible with these choices. Modern snow tires have superior rubber compounds and tread designs for freezing weather and slushy roadways.
Remember that chains outperform snow tires on solid ice and dense snow. They are the safest choice for tough cold weather. Heath’s Auto Repair in Cottonwood will help you choose tires, chains, or traction aids for Northern Arizona’s terrain based on your driving patterns.
Keep Safe This Winter
Verify road conditions on ADOT’s az511.gov or 511 app before entering the mountains. Check your tire pressure, batteries, fluids, and brakes for winter safety.
Heath’s Auto Repair prepares your car for Arizona winters. Drive through any mountain pass with confidence after a winter safety inspection today.
Heath’s Auto Service In Cottonwood, AZ
At Heath’s Auto Service, our comprehensive range of services covers everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs. Our certified technicians are skilled in handling oil changes, brake inspections, engine diagnostics, tire rotations, and much more. Whether it’s a minor tune-up or a major overhaul, trust us to get you back on the road with confidence. Contact our team at Heath’s Auto Service today!
