Safe Driving Tips for Ford Owners in New Mexico's Varied Weather Conditions

Safe Driving Tips for Ford Owners in New Mexico's Varied Weather Conditions

New Mexico's diverse terrain and unpredictable weather patterns can pose challenges for drivers across the state. From scorching desert heat to sudden mountain snowstorms, navigating New Mexico's roads demands preparedness and vigilance. As your trusted Ford dealership in Raton, we're committed to equipping you with the knowledge and resources to ensure your safety and driving enjoyment throughout the year.

Understanding New Mexico's Weather Extremes

High Desert Heat: Summer temperatures can soar, putting extra stress on your vehicle. Keep your cooling system in top shape and carry extra water for yourself and your passengers.

Monsoon Season: Flash floods are a real danger from July through September. Avoid driving through flooded areas, and be prepared to pull over if visibility is poor.

Winter Snow and Ice: New Mexico's mountains can experience significant snowfall. If you're heading into higher elevations, ensure your Ford has appropriate tires and know how to engage your all-wheel or four-wheel drive if equipped.

Windy Conditions: New Mexico is known for its gusty winds, especially in the spring. Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel and be cautious when passing high-profile vehicles.

Essential Safe Driving Tips In Adverse Weather

Check the Forecast: Before heading out on longer trips, always check the weather forecast for your route. Be prepared to adjust your plans if conditions are unfavorable.

Slow Down In Adverse Weather: When rain, snow, or high winds are present, it is important to reduce your speed. Reducing your speed provides extra reaction time, giving you the chance to react to unexpected changes on the road quickly.

Increase Following Distance: Leave extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This provides a greater margin of safety in case of sudden stops.

Use Your Headlights: Turn on your headlights in rain, snow, or fog to improve visibility and make your vehicle more visible to others.

Pull Over if Necessary: If conditions become too dangerous, don't hesitate to pull over and wait for them to improve. Your safety is the top priority.

Ford Technology to Your Advantage

Many Ford models come equipped with advanced safety features that can assist you in various weather conditions:

AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™: Helps you maintain control in slippery conditions by automatically adjusting engine power and braking to individual wheels.

BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System): Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, which is especially helpful in heavy traffic or limited visibility.

Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking: Can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid accidents.

Lane-Keeping System: With Ford's Lane-Keeping Assist, you're far less likely to wander into the wrong lane. As soon as you begin to drift, your car alerts you and provides a little extra torque to help you get back into the lane's center. If it notices you drifting several times during a drive, your car also suggests that you stop for a rest.

FordPass™: Stay connected with your vehicle through your smartphone. Access remote start, lock/unlock, and vehicle health reports for peace of mind.

Regular Maintenance is Key

Ensure your Ford is in top condition by following the recommended maintenance schedule. This includes:

Tire Checks: Inspect tires for proper inflation and tread depth. Rotate and replace them as needed.

Fluid Levels: Check and top off engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid regularly.

Brake Inspection: Have your brakes inspected and serviced at the recommended intervals.

Battery Test: New Mexico's extreme temperatures can affect battery life. Have it tested annually to ensure it's in good condition.

Phil Long Ford of Raton: Your Partner in Safe Driving

At Phil Long Ford of Raton, we're committed to keeping you safe on the road. If you have any questions about your Ford's safety features or need vehicle service, don't hesitate to visit us. We're here to help you enjoy every mile in your Ford with confidence and peace of mind. Make sure your vehicle is ready for any weather with a routine checkup from our experts.

Schedule Service With Phil Long Ford of Raton Today!