What to do when stuck in sand or mud
The Angeles National Forest fire roads, Malibu canyons, and Antelope Valley desert eat vehicles weekly. The first thing to do is stop making it worse.
What you'll learn
- Why spinning the wheels digs you deeper - fast
- The airdown-and-drive-out move (safe only in certain conditions)
- How traction mats work and when to use them
- When to stop trying and call a winch-out
Step by step
- Stop spinning the wheels immediately. Every 10 seconds of spin drops you another inch.
- Check if anyone is hurt or if the vehicle is unstable (leaning, sinking). Step away if so.
- Dig the sand or mud away from the front and back of each drive wheel.
- Slide traction mats, cardboard, or floor mats under the drive wheels.
- Try to rock back-and-forth gently - reverse 6 inches, then forward 6 inches.
- If it does not move after 2 tries, stop. Call for a winch-out.
On a canyon shoulder or a desert two-track, a winch-out costs far less than a broken transfer case. The trucks dispatched here carry recovery mats and come-along rigs.
Rather have a pro handle it?
Towing and roadside help across Los Angeles County. The line takes calls 24/7.
Keep learning.
Jump-start a dead battery safely
Jumper cables are simple until you hook them wrong. Do it right and you'll avoid sparks, ruined electronics, and a tow you didn't need.
Change a flat tire on the side of the road
First decide if you have a safe, firm, level place to work. If not, stay belted unless there is fire or smoke, and call for help.
Prepare your vehicle for a tow
A few minutes of prep before the tow truck arrives saves time, avoids damage, and makes the whole call go faster.