The Lake Tahoe area requires snow chains right now, unless you have 4WD with snow tires, which is what I have. I know they work because where other cars were slipping (guys breaking the law without chains), I cruised right by as if I was on dry land.

I don't think chains work better then a properly equipped 4WD vehicle in the Lake Tahoe area, and I have a lot of experience there. At the same time, I don't believe all 4WD vehicles offer the same performance on snow and ice. Anyway, I will forever pay the extra money for a part-time 4WD vehicle that has proper tires for snow and ice.