Things to Do if Your Car Gets Stuck/Breaks Down in Snow

Posted on: Jan 10, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Things to Do if Your Car Gets Stuck/Breaks Down in Snow

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Driving on snow is both risky and challenging for the driver. If you can not avoid travelling on snowy roads during harsh weather, it is better to be prepared and well-equipped to deal with any emergency or a breakdown because ignorance can cause a lot of damage. Often many people don’t know what to do if car gets stuck in snow, If you are also one of them and your car is stuck in the snow, follow the tips given below to get out of it safely.

10 Things To Do If Your Car Gets Stuck/Breaks Down In Snow

Getting your car out of snow can be a difficult task but if done in the right way using the following tips, it can prevent damage to your car.

1. Understand the situation

First, understand the situation and find out why your car is stuck in the snow. See if it is safe to try it yourself to unstuck your car. In case it seems difficult or dangerous to attempt yourself, it is better to stay in the car and call for professional help. If you have roadside assistance cover included in your car insurance, call your insurance company and you will receive help in no time.

2. Clear the exhaust

Check if there is any snow in the exhaust pipe. Clear it if there is any snow accumulated. Otherwise, igniting the engine can cause exhaust fumes to enter the vehicle due to blockage and may cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

3. Clear the snow around the wheel

If you have a shovel or something similar try to clear the snow around the wheels and under the car, it will help in getting out. If there is too much snow under the car, call a towing service.

4. Rock your car

You can rock your car to get rid of snow around the wheels. Go into drive mode then switch to reverse while keeping your foot on the brake, gently press and release the accelerator so that your car does not move but rock. If this works you can repeat it till it loosens the snow completely.

5. Add traction to your tyres

To add traction to your tyres, you can sprinkle salt, sand or dirt. This helps the tyre in gaining a better grip. Throw sand or salt in good quantity under your tyre. Also, turn off your traction control.

6. Switch to the lowest gear

Before you start the engine, switch to the lowest gear. The lowest gear adds traction control and prevents the spinning of the tyres. Those who are used to automatic transmission cars, need to remember this.

7. Shift to All Wheel Drive (AWD)

If your car has an AWD (All-Wheel-Drive), shifting to it will help release more power to the wheels when driving on snowy roads. In case your car has Front-Wheel- Drive only, Move your wheels in the left and right direction continuously. This movement will help the tyres gain traction control.

8. Depressurize

Reducing the pressure in the tyres will improve surface contact between the tyres and the pavement, thus improving traction control. To deflate tyres use a pen or your key to press the release valve and let out enough air that makes the tyre appear lower.

9. Ask for help

After trying all of the above if you are still stuck in snow, ask for help from people around you. Ask them to push the car out of the snow. This is the easiest way to get a car out of the snow.

10. Stay calm

If you are stuck in the snow the only thing that will help you get out is staying calm. It is easier to find a way with a calm mind. Use your resources and try your best to get your car out of the snow. In case nothing seems to be helping, call for help and keep yourself safe and warm.

Conclusion

If you often drive in harsh weather and on snowy roads. It is best to prepare your vehicle for winter driving and get a thorough check-up done for your car. Keep safety essentials that you may need in case there is an emergency on the road. Finally, invest in comprehensive car insurance with roadside assistance cover. When you are not sure what to do if car gets stuck in snow it is best to call for help. The roadside assistance cover comes in handy when you are stuck on the road and are looking for help.

FAQs

1. What can I do if my car gets stuck in the snow?

If your car is stuck in the snow, the following steps can help you get out.

• Switch to a lower gear, it help in increasing traction.

• Continuously turn your wheels in the left-right direction. This may free the car.

• Try manually digging out the snow around the tyres using a shovel.

• Ask someone to push the car while you start the engine.

• If you are still stuck, call your car insurer for roadside assistance.

2. Can my car get damaged if it is stuck in the snow?

If your car is stuck in snow for a long period it can get damaged. Snow can cause rust in your car. Cold temperature can affect the battery’s power and its ability to hold a charge. If you are not using winter tyres in your car, snow can cause wear and tear in the tyres. Snow can also damage the exhaust system and brakes.

3. Who I can call for help if my car is stuck in the snow?

If your car is stuck in the snow, you can call a towing service or you can call the roadside assistance service offered by your car insurer provided you have a roadside assistance cover included in your car insurance.

4. What is a roadside assistance cover?

Roadside assistance cover is an emergency assistance service that you can add to your car insurance policy at an additional cost. This cover provides assistance in the event of a breakdown or any other roadside emergency. It provides on-the-spot repairs, towing services, battery breakdown help, tyre changes, fuel delivery, spare keys, and alternate travel arrangements. This add-on cover is a lifesaver if you face a breakdown on a road trip. If you travel frequently or travel in areas with heavy snow, it is a must-have requirement.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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