No, you should not attempt to drive if your car is buried in snow. Trying to move a buried vehicle can cause severe damage to the transmission, engine, and tires. The safest and most effective course of action is to carefully dig the car out before even starting the engine. Attempting to drive while buried can also pack snow into the exhaust pipe, creating a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if the engine is running and fumes back up into the cabin.
Immediate Steps to Take
First, assess the situation from inside the vehicle. Check that the tailpipe is completely clear of snow. If it's blocked, do not start the engine. If it's clear, you can start the car briefly for heat, but ensure a window is slightly open for ventilation. Your primary goal is to dig yourself out.
The Correct Dig-Out Process
Start by shoveling snow away from the exhaust pipe first, then work your way around the vehicle. Clear all the snow from around the tires, the wheel wells, and create a path in front of and behind the car. You need to clear a significant distance to allow for safe movement. Rocking the car back and forth by shifting between Drive and Reverse should only be considered as an absolute last resort and only after the wheels are mostly clear, as it can damage the transmission.
When to Call for Help
If the car is deeply buried or you are unable to dig it out safely, call for a tow truck. It's better to incur the cost of a tow than the cost of a new transmission. Once the car is free, gently test the brakes before driving to ensure they are functioning correctly.
| Vehicle Type | Minimum Snow Clearance Needed | Key Risk of Forcing Movement |
|---|
| Sedan (Front-Wheel Drive) | Clear path 6-8 feet ahead/behind | Transmission strain, tire spinning |
| SUV/AWD | Clear path 8-10 feet ahead/behind | Transfer case damage, wheel sensor issues |
| Truck (4WD) | Clear path 10+ feet ahead/behind | Drivetrain binding, differential damage |
| Electric Vehicle (EV) | Clear all snow from undercarriage | Risk to high-voltage battery pack |
| Any Vehicle (Exhaust Blocked) | Exhaust pipe must be fully clear | Carbon monoxide poisoning in cabin |
