Is a rear-wheel drive car very slippery after snow?

[LeElena]

Rear-wheel drive cars are very slippery after snow. On snowy days, the road surface is slippery with reduced friction, making cars prone to skidding: The drive wheels of rear-wheel drive cars are the rear wheels, which can be figuratively understood as 'pushing' the car forward. Front-engine rear-wheel drive vehicles are prone to oversteer during turns. This drive configuration is commonly used in luxury sedans, such as BMW's entire lineup which consists of rear-wheel drive models. When the friction between the car's weight and the ground exceeds the propulsion provided by the rear wheels, the car cannot move: The weight of the car is concentrated at the front, while the power comes from the rear wheels. When the friction generated by the car's weight against the ground exceeds the forward propulsion provided by the rear wheels, the vehicle simply cannot move forward.

[JohnAnn]

I have to admit, driving a rear-wheel-drive car in the snow can be a bit nerve-wracking. That time I went out in heavy snow, the rear wheels started slipping as soon as I set off, like dancing on ice. It's not because the car is bad, but due to the unbalanced weight distribution inherent in rear-wheel-drive designs—the heavy engine is in the front, so the rear wheels lack sufficient friction when driving, making them prone to spinning on snow when you accelerate. I later improved traction with snow tires and even added some weight in the trunk to help. At the end of the day, it does tend to be more slippery, but adjusting your driving habits—like going slower and taking turns more gently—can make it manageable safely. I've also heard that using traction mode on icy roads or installing snow chains can help. The key is not to underestimate it; with a bit of experience, you'll be fine.

[ConnorRose]

Rear-wheel drive cars commonly skid in snowy conditions, and the key is understanding the reason: the vehicle's weight is concentrated at the front, while the rear wheels receive power but bear less load, resulting in insufficient friction on snowy surfaces. Compared to front-wheel drive cars that push forward directly, rear-wheel drive cars are more prone to losing traction. Although all-wheel drive cars have an advantage, they consume more fuel. I recommend prioritizing the use of snow tires to enhance grip, maintaining smooth throttle control when starting, avoiding sharp turns and sudden braking, and checking whether the tire pressure is normal. Developing a habit of gentle driving in daily use can reduce risks. It's not that you can't drive them, just that you need to be more prepared.

[SanTyler]

When driving a rear-wheel-drive car in the snow, I always remind myself to drive slowly. The road is slippery after snow, so gently press the accelerator when starting and avoid sudden acceleration; take turns slowly and maintain a longer distance to prevent not being able to stop in time. Preparing winter tires or snow chains is very practical, and regularly checking tire wear and pressure is also crucial. Safety first, don't take risks.