2012 Ford Focus Owner Guide 5th Printing - Page 249

Tires, Wheels and Loading 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. 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 may have all-weather treads to provide traction in rain and snow. However, in some climates, you may need to use snow tires and chains. Use chains on the tires only in an emergency or if the law requires them. Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains: • If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle. • Chains may damage aluminum wheels. • Use SAE Class S chains with 195/65R15 or 215/55R16 tires only; do not use tire chains with any other size tires. • Install chains securely, verifying that the chains do not touch any wiring, brake lines or fuel lines. • Drive cautiously. If you hear the chains rub or bang against your vehicle, stop and retighten the chains. If this does not work, remove the chains to prevent damage to your vehicle. • Remove the tire chains when they are no longer needed. Do not use tire chains on dry roads. 249 2012 Focus (foc) Owners Guide, 5th Printing USA (fus)