Kitchener Auto Shop Tips: How To Get Your Vehicle Unstuck From Snow

At Logel’s Auto Shop in Kitchener-Waterloo, we believe there are few things that winter drivers dread more than having your vehicle become stuck in the snow. Not only is this an inconvenience and can cause damage to your vehicle, it can turn into a dangerous situation if you are stranded. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do by yourself if you find your vehicle stuck in deep snow.

1. The first thing you need to do before attempting to move your vehicle is to ensure the tailpipe is not covered by snow. If it is, clear it away and make sure there is plenty of room for the deadly gasses to escape.
2. Remove as much snow and ice from around the tires as possible. If you have an emergency roadside kit, there should be a small shovel inside to help. If you don’t have a shovel, use anything you have available to help clear the snow, such as your snow scraper.
3. Once the snow and ice around your tires are cleared, try and find something you can put under your tires to help gain traction. In your emergency roadside kit, there should be a package of kitty litter or sand that you can open and sprinkle under and around the tires. If you don’t have sand or litter try and find something nearby that you can use, such as sticks or even cardboard.
4. Get back in your vehicle and put it onto the lowest possible gear. Pointing your tires straight, try slowly backing up, stop, and then slowly drive forward. Doing this rocking motion a few times should help your vehicle gain some traction. But remember; never give enough gas for your tires to spin, as this can result in you becoming, even more, stuck.
5. If you are still stuck, try letting a bit of air out of your tires. As the pressure drops, you will have more surface covered which may help get a grip on the snow. Just don’t forget to re-inflate your tires after you’re free!
6. If you’re still stuck at this point, it’s time to call for assistance. CAA or a private towing company will have additional supplies to free your vehicle from the snow.

Getting stuck in snow is a pain, but by following these steps, you may be able to avoid an unnecessary towing bill by freeing yourself. The possibility of getting stuck also highlights the importance of keeping an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle this winter. To assemble one yourself, read our blog on what to include in an emergency roadside kit.

If you have any further questions about winter driving or getting unstuck from snow, give our auto shop in Kitchener-Waterloo a call. We’re here to answer any of your questions!