Can I drive my Subaru in the snow?
Yes. Subarus with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive are well-suited to snowy roads, especially when you equip the car with proper winter tires.
This article explains how AWD helps in winter conditions, what gear you should have, and how to drive safely with a Subaru on snowy surfaces. It covers model considerations, tire choices, and practical tips to stay safe when winter weather hits.
How Subaru AWD helps in winter
Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive continuously powers all four wheels, which can improve traction during acceleration and cornering on slick surfaces. While this setup enhances stability compared to rear- or front-wheel drive in snow, it does not guarantee grip. Road conditions, tire condition, and driver input all influence performance, especially when braking or stopping on ice.
Limitations to keep in mind
Even with AWD, stopping distances increase on snow and ice, and steep hills or deep snow can challenge any vehicle. AWD helps with traction, but it isn’t a magic fix for every winter scenario. Proper tires and prudent driving remain essential.
Tires, chains and other gear
Preparation is key before you head out in winter weather. The right tires and traction aids can significantly improve safety and mobility.
- Winter tires (studless or studded, depending on climate and local laws). They provide the most reliable grip on snow and ice and should be installed on all four wheels when possible.
- Chains or other traction devices where legally allowed and recommended. Always check your Subaru’s owner’s manual for compatibility with tire size and wheel design.
- Emergency supplies: a fully charged battery, jumper cables, a flashlight, warm clothing or blanket, non-perishable foods, water, a first-aid kit, and a small shovel or traction aids like sand or kitty litter.
- Visibility and maintenance: winterized windshield washer fluid, intact wiper blades, and adequate coolant and defroster functioning.
- Fuel considerations: keep the gas tank reasonably full to reduce condensation and fuel-line freezing risk in very cold weather.
Having the right tires and gear dramatically improves your ability to move safely in winter conditions.
Safe driving practices in snow with a Subaru
Even with AWD and proper tires, your driving technique determines how well you handle snow and ice. These guidelines help you maximize control.
- Drive slowly and accelerate smoothly to avoid wheel spin. Abrupt inputs can cause loss of traction.
- Increase following distance significantly (aim for 6–8 seconds or more) to allow ample stopping time in snowy or icy conditions.
- Brake with care. If your vehicle has ABS, apply steady pressure; if not, pump the brakes to avoid locking wheels on slippery surfaces.
- Use available drive modes such as X-Mode (Snow/Dirt or Deep Snow settings) according to the owner's manual, especially on deeper snow or slippery grades.
- Steer with small, deliberate inputs and avoid sharp turns that can induce a skid.
- Plan routes and allow extra time for trips when winter weather is possible or forecast.
These practices help you leverage AWD benefits while staying within the vehicle’s handling limits.
Model nuances and how to check your Subaru's capabilities
Most current Subarus feature Symmetrical AWD as standard on many trims, but availability can vary by model and market. Check your owner’s manual or Subaru’s official spec sheet to confirm whether your exact model uses AWD and what driving modes are available.
Key features to look for
Look for features such as standard AWD, Snow/Dirt or Deep Snow driving modes, Hill Descent Control on applicable models, and recommendations for all-weather or winter tires for your vehicle’s year and trim.
Ultimately, AWD is a tool, not a guarantee. Winter tires and prudent driving remain essential for safety.
If you get stuck or stranded
Know how to respond in a worst-case scenario to reduce risk and get help quickly.
- Avoid spinning the wheels if you’re stuck; rapid spinning can dig you in deeper.
- Clear snow from around the tires and create a path for traction where possible; gently rock the vehicle if needed and safe.
- If you cannot move, stay with the vehicle and call for assistance; keep the heater on if safe, ensure the exhaust isn’t blocked, and run the engine sparingly to conserve fuel.
- Carry traction aids such as sand or kitty litter and a shovel in your trunk.
Being prepared reduces the chances that a winter setback becomes a hazardous or prolonged ordeal.
Summary
Subaru vehicles are notably capable in snowy conditions thanks to Symmetrical AWD, but snow and ice demand proper winter tires, careful driving, and adequate preparation. Invest in good winter tires, use appropriate driving modes when available, follow safe driving practices, and know your model’s capabilities. With the right setup and approach, you can drive your Subaru in the snow with confidence.
Can a Subaru drive in 6 inches of snow?
❤️ No complaints here about the all out utility of this car. I love the shift paddles during winter drives too. I could go on and on about my winter slaloms as I enjoy driving on a freshly laid 6-8 inches of snow before its plowed ...🥰
What mode to put Subaru in for snow?
X-MODE
In snowy conditions, X-MODE works to maintain stability, allowing the vehicle to navigate slippery roads with greater confidence.
Are subarus good in the snow?
Yes, Subarus are considered excellent in the snow due to their symmetrical all-wheel drive system, which constantly sends power to all four wheels, and high ground clearance. These features, combined with Subaru's strong performance in winter driving tests, make them very capable on snowy roads.
Key features that make Subarus good in the snow
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Unlike some other systems that only engage when a wheel starts to slip, Subaru's AWD is always on, proactively distributing power to all four wheels for better traction.
- Ground Clearance: Most Subaru models offer 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which helps them navigate over snow and obstacles without damaging the underside of the vehicle.
- Stable Design: The design of Subaru's all-wheel drive system and the boxer engine's low center of gravity contribute to stability, especially in slippery conditions.
- Winter Driving Features: Many models come with additional cold-weather features like heated seats and wiper de-icers.
- Versatile AWD System: Subaru's system can send power to the wheels with the most grip, enhancing control during acceleration and in various road conditions.
Things to remember
- While Subaru's AWD is highly effective, it's still important to drive cautiously and adjust your speed for conditions.
- Equipping your Subaru with winter tires will further improve its handling and stopping power in the snow.
Is AWD ok to drive in snow?
AWD, on the other hand, is excellent in snow, slush, and the other standard hazards that winter brings. Because power is automatically sent to the wheels that need it, AWD vehicles can adapt from smooth surfaces to snow- and ice-covered roads in no time. However, this capability can cost you!
