Can Rear-Wheel Drive Cars Be Driven in Snowy Weather?

[MargaretFitz]

Rear-wheel drive cars can be driven in snowy weather, but it is important to drive slowly and pay attention to safety. Precautions for driving rear-wheel drive cars in snowy weather: Increase following distance and maintain more space on both sides. Brake early and gently. Pay attention to turning on hazard lights, headlights, and fog lights. Maintain a steady speed. Ensure sufficient temperature inside the car and the effectiveness of the windshield wipers. Wear appropriate tinted glasses. Advantages of rear-wheel drive cars: Rear-wheel drive cars offer powerful performance, as the rear-mounted engine is closest to the rear wheels, and the rear-wheel drive relies on the driveshaft driven by the engine. The front of the car is agile, while the rear has significant weight, providing precise steering. During acceleration or climbing, the driving wheels have greater traction pressure, making the traction noticeably superior to front-wheel drive configurations.

[SanAxel]

I remember one snowy day when I drove my rear-wheel-drive car to work. The road was slippery, and the wheels spun out when I started, almost hitting a tree by the roadside. Rear-wheel-drive cars naturally have their center of gravity toward the back, making them prone to losing traction and control in the snow. Since then, I’ve tried to avoid driving it in snowy conditions unless I’ve fitted specialized snow tires. With the snow tires, it feels much more stable, but I still drive slowly and leave extra distance when braking. Additionally, keeping a snow shovel and chains handy is useful—just in case I get stuck and need to free myself. In short, rear-wheel-drive cars can handle snow, but you need to be fully prepared; otherwise, the risks are high. I’ve seen a friend get into an accident from driving too fast in the snow—it’s really not worth the risk.

[StAnnie]

Last week when it snowed, I took my buddy's rear-wheel-drive car out on the street. It slid when I turned, and I couldn't even steer it back—luckily nothing bad happened. Rear-wheel-drive cars really aren't suitable for beginners in snowy conditions because the front wheels have no power and are prone to slipping. I used to not believe it and insisted on trying a few times, only to find that crawling at a snail's pace was the only safe option. Looking back now, switching to snow tires is a cost-effective solution, or simply driving a front-wheel-drive car for peace of mind. When the weather forecast predicts snow, I usually check the tire pressure and battery in advance to avoid being unable to start the car. In short, you can drive, but it's a hassle—much less convenient than taking the bus.

[StAmara]

I always feel particularly nervous driving my own rear-wheel-drive car in snowy weather, especially when picking up and dropping off my kids at school. The driving force of a rear-wheel-drive car is at the back, making it prone to wheel spin when starting or going uphill on snowy roads, which can be dangerous if the car slides out. For safety, I insist on driving slowly, maintaining a safe distance, and avoiding sudden braking or sharp turns. Additionally, I make sure to switch to winter tires in advance, fill up the gas tank to prevent running out of power, and carry a non-slip mat. If the snow is too heavy, I simply don’t drive and wait until the roads are cleared. I’ve been using this method for five years without any incidents, and my kids always praise me for being a steady driver.