Question 8168
On level ground, when the roadway is slippery due to light snow, does driving in higher gears improve the traction of the drive wheels?
- No; you will need to drive using low gear ratios to keep the engine from running at high rpm and to increase traction.
- Yes, which reduces the risk of the tires losing grip.
- Yes, and on uphill grades you will need to drive in the lowest gear possible.
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Yes, which reduces the risk of the tires losing grip.
Yes. On level ground, a high gear delivers less force to the drive wheels, so they spin less on snow. On uphill grades, you should also use the highest gear you can maintain without shifting. Low gears multiply the force and make the wheels spin.