Snow Packed in Tires: Why Your Car Shakes in Winter & What to Do

After a winter storm hits the East Coast, many drivers notice something unsettling the next time they hit the road — their car starts shaking, vibrating, or wobbling, especially at higher speeds.

It can feel like a serious mechanical problem, but in many cases the cause is simple and seasonal: snow and ice packed inside the wheels and tires.

Why Snow in Tires Makes Your Car Shake

Your vehicle’s wheels are balanced so weight is evenly distributed as they rotate. When snow, slush, or ice builds up inside the wheel — especially around the inner rim — it creates uneven weight.

This throws the wheel out of balance and can cause:

• Steering wheel vibration

• Shaking that worsens as speed increases

• A thumping or wobbling feeling

• The sensation that something is wrong with the suspension

Even a small amount of frozen buildup can cause noticeable shaking.

When This Usually Happens

This issue is most common:

• After driving through snow or slush

• Following overnight freezing temperatures

• After East Coast snowstorms followed by refreezing

• When vehicles are parked outdoors or in open garages

As snow melts and refreezes inside the wheel, it hardens and stays lodged until it’s removed.

Is It Safe to Drive With Snow Packed in Tires?

In most cases, this type of vibration is temporary, but driving for long periods with severe shaking isn’t recommended.

Extended vibration can:

• Make the vehicle harder to control

• Increase wear on suspension components

• Mask real tire or wheel damage

If the shaking is severe or doesn’t improve, it’s best to stop and inspect the wheels.

How to Fix Snow-Related Tire Shaking

If your car shakes after a winter storm, try these steps:

1. Inspect the wheels visuallyLook for snow or ice packed inside the wheel and around the rim.

2. Remove snow and ice buildupUse a brush or gloved hands. Avoid sharp tools that could damage the wheel.

3. Drive cautiously for a short distanceRemaining ice may break free as the wheels warm up.

4. Check tire pressureCold weather lowers tire pressure, which can worsen vibration.

When It’s Not Just Snow

If the shaking continues after the wheels are clear, the issue may be something else, such as:

• A flat or damaged tire

• A bent wheel from hitting a pothole

• Uneven or low tire pressure

• A tire balance issue unrelated to snow

Winter storms often leave behind potholes and road debris, which can cause real tire or wheel damage.

Winter Tire Issues Don’t Always Mean a Shop Visit

Many winter-related tire problems can be checked or handled where your vehicle is parked, especially if you’re unsure whether the issue is snow buildup or actual damage.

Mobile tire services are commonly used during winter weather — including in places like Northern Virginia and other East Coast regions — to help drivers avoid unnecessary towing or unsafe driving.

Don’t Ignore a Shaking Car After a Snowstorm

A shaking car after winter weather is often caused by snow packed in the tires — and the fix can be quick once you know what to look for.

Clearing buildup early helps prevent additional wear and keeps your drive smooth and safe. If the vibration doesn’t go away, it’s important to have the vehicle inspected before continuing to drive.