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Question

Difficulty: MediumIce and Snow Conditions

You are attempting to move off from a stationary position on a residential road covered with fresh, compacted snow. What is the most effective technique to prevent the driven wheels from spinning?

  1. A
    Select first gear and use high engine revs to power through the snow
  2. Select second gear and ease the clutch pedal up gentlyAnswer
  3. C
    Coast forward in neutral while repeatedly applying the footbrake
  4. D
    Engage first gear with the parking brake partially applied to limit wheel movement

Answer

Select second gear and ease the clutch pedal up gently
Selecting second gear reduces the torque delivered to the driven wheels compared to first gear. Easing smoothly off the clutch pedal allows the tyres to find traction and move the vehicle forward without spinning the wheels on snow or ice.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary hazard when setting off on snow or ice
Low tyre-to-road friction means high torque will cause immediate wheelspin
Compact snow drastically reduces traction between the rubber tyre and road surface
2
Apply the appropriate gear selection and clutch control technique
Move off in second gear with smooth, progressive clutch engagement
Second gear limits the torque transferred to the wheels, helping the tyres maintain grip and move the car forward safely

Key Concept

Selecting a higher gear (second gear) and using gentle clutch control to reduce wheel torque and prevent wheelspin when moving off in snow
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Ice and Snow Conditions

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