I just took my crv for a spin in the ice/snow. It is a lx model and
I notice that when i give it the gas, the front wants to turn to the
right? I can't really tell when the 4 wheel drive kicks in. I know
this is not a heavy vehicle so I am wondering if I am expecting too
much from this car? Please give me some feedback on past experiences.
Dean Ray

You don't mention in your message what year your V is, but I can speak from experience with my 98' CRV EX that I don't have that kind of steering problem. I drive over the North Cascade Mountains of Washington State  on a regular basis (with appropriate studded snow tires, of course), and I can definately feel when the car detects slippage and the 4wd kicks in. I just feel the car grip the road. Very reassuring.
 
You state that you took your V "for a spin". Its a good idea to go slow and careful in snow and ice no matter what kind of vehicle you are driving, and whatever traction devices that you may have. A 4wd vehicle that has lost grip for any reason is just as deadly as a 2wd one. On my last trip over Stevens Pass, I came across a young man who had just had a bad encounter with a rock wall. He was unhurt,( thanks to airbags), and he used my cellphone to call for a tow. His Dad's new Jeep Grand Cherokee was NOT unhurt. The young man was shocked that the vehicle could go out of control so fast even with 4wd.
 
Here's to safe driving in the New Year!
 
JRC
 
 

I agree. My CRV has a solid feeling in snow when
driven with care. I also have a '98 EX. I never felt
teh car unsteady. I have to question if teh original
poster was "guning" the car, which of course shoul
dnever be done in snow (or any other situation for
that mater)

Peace

And with all this talk about torque steer I'm sure that becomes
magnified in low traction situations. Remember fellow CR-V owners your
vehicle was never meant to do any sort of hardcore four wheeling. It
gives you confidence in those driving conditions...if you treat your V
as front driver. My brother has had 4WDs for a long time and has many
stories about the "over confidence" most four wheelers have and I still
laugh at those vehicles stuck in the ditch during winter. The best part
of the V is the four wheel drive system is automatic so you should
always think of your vehicle as a FWD with superb traction in snow and
rain. Drive it sensibly.
David

I can really feel the 4 wheel grip on a steep incline near my home with at least a couple of inches of snow covering the incline.  It does feel very reassuring that the vehicle is gripping the road.  A slip/grip slip/grip sort of feel, just make sure the vehicle isn't making a very tight turn.  Keep in mind, I own a 1999 EX 5-speed so I have more control over engine speed, not to mention gear selection.
SALTMAN
http://www.BSALT.com