FORD 2012 Flex v.2 - Manual (Page 236)

SNOW TIRES AND CABLES/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 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.
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.
Follow these guidelines when using snow tires and chains:
• If possible, avoid fully loading your vehicle.
• Use only SAE Class S cables or equivalent on the front axle for
P235/60R17, P235/60R18, and P235/55R19 equipped vehicles. SAE
Class S chains or other conventional link chains may cause damage to
the vehicles wheel house and/or body. Use of optional spike type
traction devices or equivalent is also acceptable.
• 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.
Tires, Wheels and Loading
235
2012 Flex (471)
Owners Guide, 2nd Printing
USA (fus)