Drivers should be cautious about using the parking brake on their Ford during extreme cold temperatures, as the brake can freeze and become stuck, making it difficult to release when you’re ready to drive. In icy or frigid conditions, relying on the vehicle’s transmission to stay in park or using wheel chocks can be a safer and more effective way to keep your Ford stationary. These methods reduce the risk of a frozen parking brake and ensure your vehicle remains secure without the potential frustration or damage that a stuck brake can cause.

During Colorado winters, it’s always wise for drivers to keep a cold weather kit in their vehicle to stay safe and prepared for the unexpected. A well-stocked kit should include essentials like road salt or sand (or even kitty litter) to help gain traction on icy surfaces, extra anti-freeze windshield washer fluid to keep your view clear, and a sturdy ice scraper for removing frost and ice from windows. Being prepared with these items ensures that, even in harsh conditions or unexpected snowstorms, you can maintain control, improve traction, and handle winter driving challenges with confidence.

Routine maintenance becomes especially important for your Ford during cold weather, as low temperatures can put extra strain on key components. Cold can thicken engine oil, making regular oil changes crucial to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Tire pressure also tends to drop in colder temperatures, which can affect traction, handling, and fuel efficiency, so checking and adjusting your tires regularly is essential. Additionally, cold weather can reduce battery performance, making battery checks a smart precaution to prevent unexpected breakdowns. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you can help your Ford handle winter conditions safely and reliably, avoiding unnecessary wear and ensuring it’s ready for the road no matter how cold it gets.

When winter weather hits, having the right tires is key to keeping your Ford safe and capable on snowy or icy roads. Drivers have several options depending on their needs: all-weather tires offer year-round versatility with better traction in light snow, dedicated snow tires are engineered for maximum grip in heavy snow and ice, and snow chains provide extra traction for especially slippery or mountainous conditions. Choosing the right setup helps improve braking, cornering, and overall control, giving you confidence behind the wheel no matter how challenging the winter roads become. With the proper tires or chains, your Ford can navigate snowy conditions more safely and reliably.

Customers in and around Grand Junction, CO are invited to visit Columbine Ford to explore our wide selection of Ford vehicles, from rugged trucks to versatile SUVs. Whether you’re looking for a new or pre-owned model, our team is ready to help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. You can also reach out using the contact form below to ask about our current inventory, availability, or specific features. Plus, we make it easy to keep your Ford running at its best by offering convenient service scheduling, ensuring your vehicle stays reliable and ready for every drive.