Hey Gang, first time posting, but have been lurking for a few months...

Do any Californians on the list have experience with the AWD in the Sierra highways? More specifically, does Caltrans recognize it as 4WD, or will they require I put chains on it when chains/4WD are required?

TIA,

-Jon in Sacramento
99 300m
05 Pacifica AWD

 

dont have to deal with snow in FL but the awd is great

 

I am on the Reno side of the summit. I found this on the web. This will also be my first winter with the AWD and will be carrying chains regardless as you are required by law to carry them when travelling in the Sierras. The tricky part is snow tires. I guess it depends on how close an inspection they do at the checkpoint.

Four-wheel-drive (4WD) or All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) vehicles are allowed to proceed without chains when Caltrans issues an R-1 chain control. That means all vehicles (whether 4WD/AWD or not) must have snow tires or they have to chain up.

R-2 chain control means all vehicles must chain up, except those that are 4WD/AWD and have snow tires.

R-3 chain control means all vehicles must use chains. No exceptions. Caltrans will typically close the highway before going to R-3 status.

State law requires all drivers to carry chains from November to April when traveling on highways that receive snowfall. Click on Caltrans' Web page (www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/) for chain information. Enter the highway and you'll get a report on current conditions.

 

Yes they will recognize it as 4wd/awd when chains or 4wd are required. I live in the Roseville area and used our 05 pacifica to go to Boreal in Winter 07. Got to the check point at Colfax and was asked about either chains, awd or 4wd and mud/snow tires and they made sure tread was good, told them yes and they let me pass. Climbed snowy hills beautifully without chains.

 

Thanks for the replies, gang. Now, if it would only snow here...

-Jon