If you live in or near Flagstaff, you need to know how to deal with some of Arizona’s most unpredictable winter weather. Flagstaff is 7,000 feet above sea level, so from late fall to early spring, it gets a lot of snow, slick roads, and frigid temperatures that can make driving hard. “Do I need tire chains in Flagstaff?” is a question that a lot of drivers ask every winter. The answer depends on where, when, and how you drive, but knowing the local circumstances and what your car needs can help you stay safe on the road.
Flagstaff Winter Driving Conditions
Flagstaff is different from much of Arizona because it is high up in the mountains and gets more than 100 inches of snow every year. Because of the different heights, snow, and ice, traction can alter fast from one neighborhood to the next. Roads in the city may be plowed and clear, but highways like I-40 or I-17 going to Sedona or Williams may be buried in snow and black ice.
City workers do a great job of keeping major roads clear, but after heavy snowstorms or after a lot of snow has fallen, smaller streets and rural roads can be slippery for days. That’s when tire chains or other traction devices, like snow socks, can really help.
Do you need tire chains in Flagstaff?
You don’t have to have tire chains on you all the time in Arizona, but ADOT (Arizona Department of Transportation) can make you use them when the weather is really bad in the winter. You will see signs or notifications on the highway that say “Chains or 4WD Required” when chain restrictions are in place.
If your car doesn’t have four-wheel drive and you try to drive into a prohibited area without chains, you can be turned around for safety reasons.
It’s also important to remember that you are still legally liable for keeping control of your car even if chains aren’t always necessary. You could get a ticket for hazardous driving if you slip and cause an accident because you didn’t have enough traction.
When to Use Tire Chains
- Tire chains are made to provide you more grip on icy or snowy areas. You might need them in Flagstaff if:
- You drive on mountain roads or in remote places that don’t get plowed as often.
- You want to go to places with snow, such the Arizona Snowbowl, the San Francisco Peaks, or the North Rim.
- A big winter storm is on the way, and things are getting worse.
- You operate a two-wheel-drive car that has trouble getting traction in deep snow.
You probably won’t need chains most of the time if you drive about Flagstaff every day, especially if your car has good all-weather or winter tires. But it’s a good idea to keep a set in your trunk during the winter.
Tire Chains Alternatives
There are a number of good alternatives to chains that don’t require you to deal with the trouble of putting them on:
- Flagstaff residents should use winter tires all year long. Their unique rubber stays flexible in cold weather, and the tread design grips ice and snow much better than regular all-season tires.
- These fabric covers, called snow socks, go over your tires and are easier to put on than chains. They don’t last as long, but they’re lighter, quieter, and perform well in light snow.
- Studded tires are legal in Arizona from October 1 to May 1. They give you great traction on icy roads.
The mechanic at your local Ascot Auto Repair can assist you choose the best solution for your car and driving style.
Safety Tips for Tire Chains
If you decide to utilize tire chains, remember these things:
- Before you really need them, practice putting them on.
- Chains should never be used to travel faster than 30 mph.
- Take them off when you’re back on bare pavement since chains may hurt both the tires and the roadways when there’s no snow on the ground.
- Check your tires and alignment after using chains to be sure nothing came loose or moved.
Ascot Auto Repair Will Keep You Safe This Winter
Driving in Flagstaff in the winter might be hard, but the correct traction gear will keep you safe and sure of yourself on the road. Ascot Auto Repair in Flagstaff, AZ can help you with winter tires, tire chains, or a seasonal inspection. Our technicians know how to get your car ready for anything that can happen in Flagstaff throughout the winter.
Ascot Automotive Specialists In Flagstaff, AZ
Ascot Automotive offers an extensive array of auto repair solutions to address every issue your vehicle may encounter. From routine maintenance to intricate repairs, our adept technicians possess the expertise to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Contact our experienced team today!
