Snow Tires And Chains - Ford Fusion 2009 Owner's Manual

SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS

WARNING: Snow tires must be the same size, load index, speed
rating as those originally provided by Ford. Use of any tire or
wheel not recommended by Ford can affect the safety and
performance of your vehicle, which could result in an increased risk of
loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.
Additionally, the use of non-recommended tires and wheels could
cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer unit
failure.
The tires on your vehicle have all weather treads to provide traction in
rain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snow
tires and chains. If you need to use chains, it is recommended that steel
wheels (of the same size and specifications) be used, as chains may chip
aluminum wheels.
Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:
• Use only SAE class S cables or equivalent on the front axle for
P205/60R16 equipped vehicles. SAE class "S" chains or other
conventional link chains may cause damage to the vehicles wheel
house and/or body.
• Do not install tire chains, cables, or optional traction devices on the
rear tires. This could cause damage to the vehicle's wheel house or
body.
• Do not use tire chains, cables, or optional traction devices with
optional P225/50R17 or P225/45R18 tires.
• Install cable chains securely, verifying that the cables do not touch any
wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.
• Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables rub or bang against your
vehicle, stop and re-tighten the cables. If this does not work, remove
the cables to prevent damage to your vehicle.
• If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.
• Remove the tire cables when they are no longer needed. Do not use
tire cables on dry roads.
• The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle
damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when
using snow tires and chains.
• Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) with tire cables on your vehicle.
2009 Fusion (fsn)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA (fus)
Tires, Wheels and Loading
189