Lower tire pressure temporarily to widen the contact patch

Letting 5-10 PSI out of the drive tires temporarily widens their footprint on the ground, giving them more surface area to grip snow or ice. This is a last-resort technique that requires immediate re-inflation afterward.

Steps

1. Confirm you can re-inflate: Only attempt this if you have a portable compressor or a gas station nearby. Driving on underinflated tires is unsafe and causes tire damage.
2. Release air from the drive tires: Use a valve core tool or small pointed object to press the valve stem. Reduce pressure by 5-10 PSI below the recommended level (e.g., from 35 PSI down to 25-30 PSI).
3. Attempt to drive out: Use gentle acceleration in a low gear, combining with traction material if available.
4. Re-inflate immediately: As soon as you reach safety, restore all tires to the manufacturer-recommended pressure printed on the driver's door jamb sticker.

Tips

• Never drop below 20 PSI -- the tire can unseat from the rim
• This works best in soft snow; on hard ice the benefit is minimal
• A compact 12V tire inflator costs under $30 and is worth keeping in the vehicle year-round