The Flying Car Incident

Harry and Ron are unable to pass through the barrier to Platform 9¾ at King's Cross Station, causing them to miss the Hogwarts Express. Desperate not to miss the start of term, Ron decides to fly his father's enchanted Ford Anglia to Hogwarts. The journey is initially thrilling, but the car begins to malfunction as they approach the school. They crash into the Whomping Willow, a violent magical tree on the grounds, which attacks the car. The car ejects them and their luggage before driving off into the Forbidden Forest. Harry and Ron, bruised and shaken, make their way to the castle, where they are caught by Severus Snape and brought before Professor McGonagall and Albus Dumbledore. They are not expelled but receive detentions and a stern warning.