FORD 2013 Flex v.3 - Manual (Page 352)

USING SNOW 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, transfer case or power transfer unit failure.
Note: The suspension insulation and bumpers will help prevent vehicle
damage. Do not remove these components from your vehicle when using
snow tires and chains.
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 cables. If you need to use cables, it is recommended that steel
wheels (of the same size and specifications) be used, as cables may chip
aluminum wheels.
Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:
• If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.
• Use only SAE Class S snow chains, snow cables or equivalent on the
front axle for P235/60R17, P235/60R18, and P235/55R19 equipped
vehicles. The use of snow chains, snow cables or other traction assist
devices that are larger than SAE Class S may cause damage to your
vehicle’s wheel house, suspension 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
255/45R20 tires.
• Install cable chains securely, verifying that the cables do not touch any
wiring, brake lines or fuel lines.
• Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h) with tire cables on your vehicle.
• Drive cautiously. If you hear the cables rub or bang against your
vehicle, stop and retighten the cables. If this does not work, remove
the cables to prevent damage to your vehicle.
• Remove the tire cables when they are no longer needed. Do not use
tire cables on dry roads.
Wheels and Tires 351
2013 Flex (471)
Owners Guide gf, 3rd Printing, December 2012
USA (fus)