Getting stuck in snow or mud is frustrating, especially if you’re alone or in an unfamiliar area. Many drivers make the mistake of accelerating too much, which only digs the tires deeper. Instead of panicking, there are safe and effective techniques to get your car moving again.
In this blog, we’ll discuss step-by-step methods to regain traction, avoid vehicle damage, and know when it’s time to call a tow truck in Brooklyn.
How to Free Your Car When Stuck in Snow or Mud
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step is to evaluate how deep your tires are stuck. Step out of the car and check if all four wheels are affected or just the front or rear ones. If the tires are only slightly buried, you may be able to free your car with minimal effort.
Avoid spinning your wheels aggressively. This can dig your tires deeper into the snow or mud, making it harder to escape. Instead, focus on controlled movements to regain traction.
Clear Snow or Mud Around Your Tires
Removing excess snow or mud from around the tires gives them more space to grip the ground. Use a shovel if you have one, or improvise with an object like a sturdy stick or your hands. Make sure to clear a path both in front and behind the tires.
If you’re in deep snow, check if there’s ice forming underneath. Ice can make the ground even more slippery. In that case, breaking up the ice with a tool or a rock can help improve traction.
Add Traction Under the Tires
Your tires may not have enough grip on the slippery surface, so adding traction is crucial. Place materials like sand, gravel, cat litter, or even your car’s floor mats under the tires. These can help the wheels get a better hold on the surface and move forward.
For icy conditions, sprinkling salt around the tires can help melt the ice and improve grip. If you don’t have any of these materials, try using sticks, leaves, or cardboard from your trunk.
Use the Rocking Method
The rocking method can help create momentum to move your car forward. Start by shifting between drive and reverse, pressing the gas pedal gently. The goal is to use small movements to build up enough motion to roll out of the stuck position.
Make sure to keep the wheel straight and apply steady acceleration. Too much force can make your tires spin in place, worsening the situation. If you feel the car moving slightly, keep repeating the process until you gain enough traction.
Reduce Tire Pressure Slightly
Lowering the tire pressure by a few PSI can increase the surface area of the tire, improving traction. If your tires are too firm, they might not grip the ground well enough to move forward.
However, don’t deflate them too much. Keep a tire gauge handy and release just enough air to create a better grip. Once you’re back on the road, reinflate the tires as soon as possible to avoid long-term damage.
Avoid Excessive Acceleration
Pressing too hard on the gas pedal will only make things worse. If your wheels start spinning in place, stop immediately and try a different approach. Fast acceleration can dig your tires deeper and put unnecessary stress on your engine.
Instead, use a slow and controlled approach. Slight movements and gradual acceleration are more effective in helping your car regain traction. If you feel resistance, stop and try repositioning the car before attempting again.
Call for Professional Help If Needed
If you’ve tried multiple methods and your car is still stuck, it’s time to call for assistance. Forcing your way out could damage your tires, transmission, or undercarriage. Professional towing services have the right tools to pull your vehicle out safely.
Being stuck in an unfamiliar or dangerous location can also pose safety risks. If you’re in heavy snow or muddy terrain with no clear solution, calling a tow truck is the best option to avoid further complications.
Also Read: How to Safely Tow an Electric Vehicle: What You Need to Know
Need a Tow Truck in Brooklyn?
Don’t let a stuck car ruin your day—A1 Towing Brooklyn provides fast and reliable towing services to get you back on the road safely. Our experienced team is equipped to handle snow, mud, and any roadside emergency with care and efficiency.
Get expert towing assistance when you need it most—contact us today to request a tow!
