A tool for operating a vehicle tire chain tensioner and a method of using the same. The tool is a member having spaced apart first and second ends. The first end is configured to engage a first style of chain tensioner and the second end is configured to engage a second style of chain tensioner. The first end includes a leg extending outwardly at ninety degrees from the member in a first direction; and the second end includes spaced apart first and second arms that extend outwardly at ninety degrees from the member in a second direction. The member, leg, and first and second arms are all aligned in the same plane. The leg's free end is complementary to a recess defined in the first style of chain tensioner. A section of the second style of chain tensioner is received in a gap defined between the first and second arms.