Yes, any car can get stuck in snow, but some are far more susceptible than others. The primary factors are your tires, ground clearance, drivetrain, and driving technique. All-season tires, common on most cars, harden in freezing temperatures, losing grip. A car with low ground clearance can become high-centered on deep snow, while a vehicle without all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) can easily lose traction when starting or climbing hills.
The most critical element is your tires. Think of them as the only point of contact between your car and the road. All-season tires are a compromise, designed for a variety of conditions but not optimal for severe cold and snow. Winter tires are made from a softer rubber compound that stays pliable in freezing weather, and they have deeper, more aggressive tread patterns to bite into snow and slush. According to testing by organizations like Tire Rack and Consumer Reports, a front-wheel-drive car with winter tires will often outperform an AWD car with all-season tires in winter braking and cornering.
| Vehicle Feature | Low Risk of Getting Stuck | High Risk of Getting Stuck | Key Consideration |
|---|
| Tire Type | Dedicated Winter Tires | All-Season or Summer Tires | Winter tires provide up to 40% shorter braking distances on ice. |
| Drivetrain | AWD/4WD with Winter Tires | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | AWD helps you move, but doesn't help you turn or stop. |
| Ground Clearance | 8.5 inches or more (e.g., SUV/Truck) | Less than 6 inches (e.g., Sedan) | Prevents the chassis from plowing snow. |
| Vehicle Weight | Heavier (e.g., EV, Large SUV) | Lighter (e.g., Compact Car) | More weight can improve traction but also increases inertia. |
| Driver Skill | Smooth inputs, proper gear selection | Sudden acceleration/braking | Momentum is key; avoid stopping on inclines. |
Beyond equipment, technique is crucial. Accelerate and decelerate slowly to avoid breaking traction. If you do start to slide, look and steer in the direction you want to go, and avoid slamming on the brakes. Keeping a winter emergency kit in your trunk with a shovel, cat litter for traction, and warm blankets is a smart precaution for any driver.
