How to Winterize Your Car
Winter driving in California's Central Valley might seem straightforward, but seasonal temperature drops and occasional frost can catch drivers off guard. At Future Ford of Clovis, the team understands that proper winter preparation protects both your vehicle and your family during cooler months ahead.
Learn more about how to winterize a car at our Ford dealer near Fresno or schedule Ford service nearby and our certified technicians will handle all winter services that your car needs.
Essential Winter Car Preparation Steps
Battery and Electrical System Check
Cold weather significantly impacts battery performance, reducing capacity by up to 30% during winter months. Your Ford vehicle's battery works harder to start the engine when temperatures drop, making pre-winter testing crucial for reliable transportation.
Check battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections that could prevent proper starting. Clean terminals with a baking soda solution if needed, ensuring tight connections that won't fail during cold morning starts. Most batteries last 3-5 years, but extreme temperature fluctuations in the Central Valley can shorten its lifespan.
Professional battery testing reveals actual capacity versus rated capacity, identifying batteries that might fail unexpectedly. Our certified Ford technicians use advanced testing equipment to measure cold cranking amps and overall battery health before problems strand you.
Tire Inspection and Winter Tread
Proper tire maintenance becomes critical as road conditions change throughout winter months. Even in Clovis, rain and morning frost create slippery surfaces that demand adequate tire tread for safe stopping and cornering.
Measure tire tread depth using the penny test -- insert a penny into tread grooves with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, your tires need replacement before winter driving conditions worsen.
Tire pressure drops approximately 1-2 PSI for every 10-degree temperature decrease, affecting fuel economy and handling characteristics. Check tire pressure monthly during winter months, adjusting to manufacturer specifications found on your driver's side door jamb sticker.
All-season tires provide adequate performance for most Central Valley winter conditions but consider upgrading if you frequently travel to mountain areas in California where snow becomes more common.
Fluid Level Maintenance
Engine coolant protection prevents freeze damage that could cost thousands of dollars in engine repairs. California's mild winters still require proper antifreeze concentration to protect against unexpected temperature drops and maintain optimal engine operating temperatures.
Test coolant mixture ratios using an antifreeze tester, ensuring protection down to at least 10 degrees below your area's expected minimum temperature. Flush and replace coolant every 3-5 years or according to your Ford model's maintenance schedule.
Windshield washer fluid should be winter-grade formula that won't freeze in reservoir lines. Summer formulas can freeze solid, leaving you unable to clear road salt, mud, or debris from your windshield during critical driving moments.
Professional Winter Services at Future Ford of Clovis
Comprehensive Winter Vehicle Inspections
Our experienced technicians provide complete winter readiness checks that examine every system affected by seasonal changes. From heating system performance to wiper blade condition, we ensure your F-150 or Explorer handles winter driving confidently.
Heating system maintenance includes cabin air filter replacement and heater core inspection, ensuring comfortable interior temperatures during cold morning commutes. Defrosting systems receive particular attention, as clear visibility remains essential for safe winter driving.
Professional oil changes using winter-appropriate viscosity grades help your engine start more easily during cold weather.
Schedule Winter Car Maintenance Near Me
Schedule your winter vehicle inspection at our service center before temperatures drop significantly. Our award-winning service team provides thorough inspections and transparent recommendations that keep your Ford running reliably throughout the winter season. Plus, we speak Spanish and can explain maintenance recommendations in your preferred language, ensuring complete understanding of your vehicle's winter preparation needs.
Expert technicians understand Ford-specific requirements for optimal winter performance, from battery specifications to recommended fluid grades. Trust your winter preparation to professionals who know your vehicle's exact needs for Central Valley driving conditions.
Don't wait for the first cold snap to discover your vehicle isn't winter-ready. Contact Future Ford of Clovis today to schedule comprehensive winter services that protect your investment and ensure reliable transportation near Fresno throughout the cooler months ahead.
Read More from Us: Why Buy from Us? | Community Involvement | Ford Mobile Service
