How to Drive in the Snow with Front-Wheel Drive
Wednesday 14th January 2026
Driving in bad weather, such as snowy or icy conditions, should only be done if you really need to. These conditions can be dangerous and put not only you and your passengers at risk but other road users too. If you do need to drive in the snow, it’s important to approach it as safely as possible. Driving a front-wheel-drive car can be even more demanding, which is why we’ve created this guide to help you feel safer and more confident when driving in the snow.
Step one – Prepare for snowy conditions
British weather can be unpredictable, so in winter it’s always a good idea to be prepared. If it’s a particularly icy winter, or you’re planning to drive frequently in poor weather conditions, it might be advisable to switch to winter tyres. For occasional driving, all-season tyres are a good compromise.
It’s illegal to drive without obstructed visibility, so ensure all snow is cleared from the roof, windows, mirrors, lights, and number plates before you set off.
It’s also a good idea to wipe your feet with an old towel before you start driving – you don’t want wet shoes slipping off the clutch.
Once you’re ready, start off… slowly.
Step two – Pulling away
A common mistake when driving in the snow is trying to pull away too quickly. Move slowly and be gentle. Use the clutch to let the car creep forward.
If you find your wheels spinning and you drive a manual, try pulling away in second gear. This reduces torque and increases resistance, minimising the risk of wheel spin.
Step three – Driving
While main roads are usually gritted, side roads can be very slippery and dangerous. Even on gritted roads, drive slowly and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front, as braking distances are much longer in bad weather.
When braking, avoid sudden movements. Brake firmly but gradually, allowing ABS to activate. If you don’t have ABS, brake gently and drop into a lower gear when slowing down.
When steering, brake before you reach a corner, not during the turn. If the car won’t turn, avoid oversteering and ease off the accelerator.
If you’re driving uphill, try to maintain momentum if possible. Keep steady and avoid stopping unless absolutely necessary. When going downhill, use a low gear and avoid braking mid-slope if you can.
Lastly, if you start slipping or skidding, don’t panic! Ease off the pedals and steer gently, avoiding sharp corrections.
If you get stuck in slow-moving traffic, be careful when stopping and starting. It might be tempting to turn your engine off to try and save fuel, but running your car’s heater without the engine running is a recipe for a flat battery.
Need winter tyres?
Need winter tyres to avoid getting caught out in the snow? At Formula One Autocentres, we stock a wide range of tyres from budget and premium brands, and we won’t be beaten on price. Get prepared for winter and find your nearest Formula One Autocentre today.
