Colorado’s famously snowy winters are a big draw for locals and tourists alike. They also present challenging driving conditions that can mean serious traffic backlogs and increased risk of an accident. Knowing how to drive in snow can help you avoid these scenarios and ensure your vehicle stays in peak condition throughout the winter months.
How to Drive in Snow with Rear Wheel Drive
It is actually a common misconception that cars equipped with all wheel drive or four wheel drive have better traction in slippery conditions. While they do offer better traction overall while actively driving and accelerating, they are no better at helping you stop or turn than a two-wheel system; and stopping and turning is often where accidents occur.
With that being said, the way you drive in snow with rear wheel drive will be exactly the same as you would with all wheel drive, front wheel drive, or four wheel drive: carefully, with proper equipment, and with proper vehicular maintenance.
Steps to Drive in Snow Safely
Before you Head Out:
- Have Your Vehicle Inspected
Cold weather takes a toll on your vehicle. Make sure it is in fighting form by taking it to the dealership for an inspection. You will especially want to make sure your brake pads are in good working order, you have fresh oil and a new filter, and that your battery can withstand the drop in temperatures. You will also want to replace windshield wipers and test your heating system.
If you haven’t had your routine Mercedes-Benz Service A or Service B performed, do so before the snow hits. You can schedule your service online at the Mercedes Benz of Littleton dealership.
- Purchase Snow Tires
Even if your vehicle is equipped with all wheel drive, snow tires are a worthwhile investment during the winter months. Winter tires are made of a material designed to remain soft and pliant during sub-zero temperatures. This gives them added traction when compared to all-weather tires, which can harden and wear down on snow and ice.
- Plan Your Trip
- Check the weather forecast ahead of time to avoid hazardous weather conditions.
- Plan your route carefully. Avoid rural roads, poorly lit roadways, or areas where they are slower to plow.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to get there.
- Remember that cold temperatures negatively affect both electric range and fuel efficiency. Make sure you give yourself plenty of gas/electricity to arrive safely at your destination.
- Pack your car with bottled water, blankets, and food in case of a breakdown.
- Charge your cell phone fully.
- Make sure you have packed your tire chains, if appropriate for your vehicle.
- Pack sand or cat litter to help you gain traction if your tires are spinning.
On the Road:
How to drive in snow is not as mysterious as it sounds. The main thing to keep in mind is to give yourself more time to do everything:
- Brake sooner and more gently than you would in dry conditions
- Keep your eyes farther up the road to scan for obstacles or braking vehicles
- Scan your dashboard frequently for lights indicating slippery conditions
- Give yourself plenty of room between vehicles
Other Tips for How to Drive in Snow
Expect Skids
Skids and slides are inevitable in snowy conditions, even if you do everything right. While they can be scary, you must try not to panic. Keep your focus in the direction you wish to go, and correct your vehicle according to its drivetrain:
- In a front wheel drive vehicle, release the gas as you skid while steering the car in the direction you need to go. When you feel the wheels regain traction, reapply the gas.
- In a rear wheel drive car, turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide. If the back wheels are skidding right, steer right.
Know How to Use Your Anti-Lock Brakes
If you are unable to correct your vehicle while sliding or you are in imminent danger of hitting another object, you should employ your vehicle’s Anti Lock Brake System. All newer vehicles have an ABS, which is a computer system designed for emergency stops in extreme weather.
To activate your car’s ABS, press down on the brake hard and hold it there. This will signal the computer to employ the ABS and brake for you, based on the electronically perceived traction. You may feel a slight shudder under the pedal-an indication that ABS is working. You will slow down while you hold your foot on the pedal-just don’t forget to keep steering.
Questions About Driving in Snow in Your Mercedes?
If you have questions about how best to drive your Mercedes in snowy conditions, such as different drive modes or using fast charging stations, give our dealership a call. We love answering our customers’ questions and look forward to helping you stay safe and happy on the road this winter.
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