Summer Maintenance for Your Ford Mustang

Hot summer days in Rifle, Grand Junction, and Glenwood Springs can take a real toll on your Mustang’s cooling system, primarily if it hasn’t been serviced in a while. Over time, coolant can lose its effectiveness, and hoses can dry out or crack, especially in the elevated and dry air we experience on the Western Slope. Our technicians at Columbine Ford will conduct a thorough inspection, checking coolant levels and condition, ensuring your radiator fan is operating properly, and inspecting for leaks or worn-out parts. Whether you’re driving daily around town or planning a scenic cruise through Glenwood Canyon, a healthy cooling system ensures your engine stays right where it should—running cool and smooth, not stuck overheating on the side of I-70.

If you’ve been racking up the miles on summer drives—whether it’s a loop through the Colorado National Monument or a spirited sprint through the backroads near Meeker—it’s a smart time to think about your Mustang’s oil. Warmer temps cause oil to break down more quickly, especially if you’re running a high-performance model like the GT or Mach 1. Old oil loses its ability to protect your engine from friction, heat, and carbon buildup, all of which can cause long-term damage if left unchecked. At Columbine Ford, we use the manufacturer-recommended oil and filter that match your specific engine, and we also check other vital fluids while we’re at it. A quick visit can go a long way in keeping your engine in peak condition all summer long.

You might not think about your battery much—until your Mustang won’t start in the grocery store parking lot. Summer heat can quietly shorten your battery’s lifespan by evaporating internal fluids and damaging the plates inside. This is especially true if your car spends a lot of time in the sun or makes shorter trips around Rifle or Glenwood, where it doesn’t get a chance to recharge fully. At Columbine Ford, we’ll test your battery’s voltage, inspect the terminals for corrosion, and let you know exactly how much life is left in it. If it’s time for a new one, we’ll help you pick a battery that matches your Mustang’s needs and driving habits.

From hot pavement to weekend road trips through mountain terrain, summer driving in Colorado can be rough on tires—especially performance tires like the ones on many Mustangs. Heat causes the air in your tires to expand, which can cause pressure to fluctuate and wear them out faster if not properly managed. At Columbine Ford, we’ll check your tire pressure (including the spare), inspect for uneven tread wear, and ensure your alignment is set correctly. Need new tires? We’ve got plenty of summer and all-season options that are Mustang-approved, whether you need grip for canyon carving or comfort for longer drives up toward Grand Junction.

Whether you’re in Rifle, Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, or just passing through the area, we’re your go-to spot for Mustang summer service. Our team knows these cars inside and out, and we’re proud to offer certified Ford maintenance tailored to the demands of Colorado’s unique summer conditions—high heat, changing elevations, and everything in between. From essential inspections to performance upgrades and quick turnarounds, we make it easy to keep your Mustang in peak shape. Give us a call or complete the form below to schedule your summer check-up—we’ll take care of the rest, so you can focus on enjoying the ride.