Vehicle recovery (freeing a stuck vehicle)

Tie down and recovery hook

Tie down and recovery hook

WARNING

Stand clear of a stuck vehicle.
Do not spin your tires at high speed.

This could cause them to explode and result in serious injury. Parts of your vehicle could also overheat and be damaged.

Pulling a stuck vehicle

If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc., use a tow strap or other device designed specifically for vehicle recovery. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recovery device.

Front:

Securely install the vehicle recovery hook (stored in the cargo area) as illustrated. Make sure that the hook is properly secured in the original place after use.

CAUTION

Tow chains or cables must be attached only to the main structural members of the vehicle or the recovery hook. Otherwise, the vehicle body will be damaged.
Never tow a vehicle using the vehicle tie downs or recovery hooks.
Always pull the cable straight out from the front of the vehicle. Never pull on the vehicle at an angle.
Pulling devices should be routed so they do not touch any part of the suspension, steering, brake or cooling systems.
Pulling devices such as ropes or canvas straps are not recommended for use in vehicle towing or recovery.

Rocking a stuck vehicle

If your vehicle is stuck in sand, snow, mud, etc., use the following procedure:

1. Turn off the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system.
2. Make sure the area in front and behind the vehicle is clear of obstructions.
3. Turn the steering wheel right and left to clear an area around the front tires.
4. Slowly rock the vehicle forward and backward.

Shift back and forth between R (Reverse) and D (Drive).
Apply the accelerator as little as possible to maintain the rocking motion.
Release the accelerator pedal before shifting between R and D.
Do not spin the tires above 35 MPH (55 km/h).

5. If the vehicle cannot be freed after a few tries, contact a professional towing service to remove the vehicle.

    See also:

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    Steering wheel
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