Need advice on snow driving

[ard]

FYI-

Last time I checcked, California law requires you to HAVE chains/cables IN the car even with AWD + snow tires on the car. Not that you need to USE the chains, but technically you must have them with you.



I've NEVER been asked... as I recacll the law began in 2000 ish. So a couple of hundred passes through chain control and never asked.

Just saying-

A

PS I have a box of brand new cables. never used, that I toss in whatever AWD I am using that day.

[Jed Peters]

FYI, just drove over highway 80, and it was GNARLY. The X did great though!

Doesn't feel as "planted" as the 530xiT, but that's cuz this is the first drive in the X5!

[ALPHA]

Originally Posted by ICX5

I believe the OP decided to purchase a winter tire package, would be interesting which size and winter tire selected.

However, since chains are mentioned again, I'll add this from the 2009 X5 owners manual (Not sure which year/model you have Alpha):

"BMW only tests certain fine-link snow chains, classifies them as road-safe and recommends them. Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center can provide you with this information.

BMW X5: use is only permitted in pairs on the rear wheels with tires of the size

255/55 R 18
255/50 R 19

Observe the manufacturer's instructions when mounting snow chains. Do not exceed a speed of 30 mph/50 km/hr with the chains mounted."

Alpha's comments above are telling, that even with chains on 20" tires; "... its scary!! I was lucky i had no down hill because i would have crashed for sure..."

m3fil, would you share which tire/wheel package you went with (wheel size/tire brand, model, width). Hope your trip goes well, let us know.

I have 2008 MAY model and 315 in the rear and 275 in the front. I use my chains in the front only because if I don't then steering the car on ice is useless...