*Originally published in 2018
Updated on October 21, 2024:

So your car's stuck in the snow—don't panic! It happens to the best of us, especially during these chilly winter months. Whether you're navigating the icy roads of Colorado or dealing with an unexpected snowfall in Texas, knowing how to free your car from a snowy trap is a skill that's as essential as it is easy to learn. Let's walk you through some tried-and-true methods to get your vehicle moving again, so you can keep on rolling without missing a beat.

But first, a quip about tires: we've said it before—and we can't stress it enough—driving in the winter is all about tires. If you don't have winter tires or you can't afford them yet, you really should make them a priority. However, there are things you can do to get unstuck if it should occur.

How to Get Your Stuck Car Out of the Snow:

Use Kitty Litter

Keep a bag of kitty litter in the back of your car that way if you do get stuck you can spread some around the tires for added traction.

Try Using Your Floor Mats 

If you're really in a pinch, and you don't care for your car's interior, you can try placing your car's floor mats underneath the driving wheels. 

Tire Socks or Chains

In some areas and highways across the country, you're required by law to carry a set of tire socks or chains. All-wheel-drive, four-wheel-drive, and cars with winter-rated tires are exempt. Regardless of your setup, it might be wise to carry a set of tire chains. If you can't get out with them, then you'll probably need a tow! 

Try the Rocking Technique

If you have a little traction, sometimes you can "rock" the car out by placing the vehicle in drive, then accelerating, stopping, putting it in reverse, again accelerating, stopping, and then repeating.

Letting Some Air Out of Your Tires

When you decrease the air pressure in your tires, they'll offer a bigger contact patch and help you get traction. That's why off-roaders and drag racers typically lower the PSI in their tires. Just don't forget to inflate them to the proper tire pressure ASAP. Not only is it a safety issue, but you'll be killing your MPGs.

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