Car stuck in mud? How to free your car

Getting stuck in mud can be frustrating, especially when you’re in a hurry or far from help. But with a few practical steps, you can get back on the road in no time.

Here’s what to do when your car is stuck in mud, how to avoid getting stuck again, and whether mud guards are worth it.

If your car is stuck, don’t panic. While every situation is different, the following steps are general recommendations that may help you get moving again. Don’t try to force your car out or push it. This could lead to damage or injury. If it is safe to do so, follow these steps.

Step 1: Reduce your car’s weight

Before doing anything else, switch off the engine to ensure safety. Ask passengers to leave the car and remove any heavy items to stop your car from sinking further into the mud. Don’t let people stand in front of or behind your car, as they could get hurt or splattered with mud and other debris.

Step 2: Clear mud from around tyres

Grab a stick, spade, or anything sturdy you can find to dig away mud from around the tyres. Remove as much as you can to make it easier for the tyres to grip the ground.

Step 3: Add traction

Place rough materials like old mats, cardboard, gravel, wood, straw, branches or leaves under the tyres to give them something solid to grip onto.

Step 4: Deflate tyres slightly (optional)

Letting a little air out of your tyres can increase the surface area and improve grip. Only do this if you have a way to reinflate them afterwards, such as a portable air pump.

Avoid reducing tyre pressure below 15 psi, as this could damage the tyre.

Step 5: Use gentle acceleration

Before accelerating, restart the engine if it was turned off, then gently move the steering wheel from side to side to help clear some space around your tyres.

• If you have a manual gearbox, use the highest possible gear (second or third if possible) and very gently lift the clutch to avoid stalling.
• If you have an automatic gearbox, shift to the lowest gear and gently press the accelerator.

Sudden, forceful acceleration will likely just spin the tyres and dig you in deeper, so be as smooth as possible. If moving forward doesn’t work, try reversing slightly and then moving forward again.

When driving out of the mud, try to stay out of tyre tracks caused by other vehicles, as this could cause you to skid.

Step 6: Call for help if needed

If the mud is too deep, it might not be possible for you to drive your car out of it. If all else fails, it’s time to call for roadside assistance or a local towing service. 

Driving in muddy conditions takes care and preparation. Before setting off, you should plan your route and avoid muddy areas if possible. If part of your journey takes you off-road, try to stick to higher ground where you can, as it's likely to be drier.

Once you’ve set off on your journey and hit a muddy patch, you should:

• Drive steadily. Keep a consistent speed to maintain momentum. Sudden stops or sharp turns can cause your tyres to lose grip.
• Use the correct gear. Stick to lower gears to maintain control and reduce the risk of wheelspin.
• Avoid sudden braking. Brake gently to avoid sliding or skidding.
• Know your vehicle’s limits. If your vehicle isn’t designed for off-road conditions, exercise extra caution. Some vehicles, such as 4x4s, handle better in mud than standard cars. 

The best way to avoid getting stuck is to spot trouble before it happens:

• Look out for signs of soft, waterlogged ground, such as deep tyre ruts or standing water.
• Stick to the road, established tracks, or firmer surfaces whenever possible.
• Keep your tyre pressure at the correct level for your vehicle (this will be listed in the car manual).
• If you’re unsure about an area, walk through it first to gauge how muddy it is.

If you often drive in muddy conditions, consider keeping the following items in your car:

• A sturdy spade for clearing mud.
• Traction mats or a roll of carpet.
• A tow rope rated for your vehicle’s weight.
• Heavy-duty gloves.
• A portable air pump to reinflate tyres.
• A torch for working in low light.
• A car phone charger or portable battery charger (in case you need to call for help).

Mud guards can help keep your car cleaner and protect your car’s underside from damage caused by mud, stones, or water. This can prevent scratches and rust, saving you money on repairs.

They’re affordable and easy to install, so they’re a great option if you often drive on muddy roads, gravel, or in bad weather.

However, most drivers won’t need mud guards. If you only drive on clean and well-maintained roads, you won’t see any benefit from them.