Winter Driving in Central Arkansas: A Ford Owner's Guide to Ice, Cold Snaps, and Holiday Trips

Winter in Central Arkansas doesn't usually bury Cabot in snow, but it has its own challenges. Temperatures can swing from the 60s to below freezing overnight, and a round of freezing rain can turn Highway 67/167, bridges, and rural back roads slick before you know it. Add holiday travel to see family, and winter is a busy season for your Ford. Here's how to get your truck, SUV, or car ready.

Ice Is the Real Winter Threat in Arkansas

In our part of the state, ice is more dangerous than snow. Freezing rain and sleet can leave a thin, nearly invisible layer of black ice, especially on bridges and overpasses, which freeze before the road around them.

When temperatures drop near freezing:

• Slow down and leave much more room behind the vehicle ahead.
• Accelerate, brake, and steer smoothly. Sudden moves break traction.
• Turn off cruise control on wet or icy roads.
• If the roads are iced over and the trip can wait, stay home. Arkansas ice usually melts within a day or two.

Before heading out, check road conditions on IDriveArkansas.com, the Arkansas Department of Transportation's traveler information site.

Use Your Ford's 4x4 and Drive Modes the Right Way

Many Ford trucks and SUVs offer 4x4 or all-wheel drive, and many models include selectable drive modes, including a Slippery mode on equipped vehicles. These features help you get moving and stay stable on slick roads, but they don't help you stop faster. Your tires and your speed still decide your stopping distance.

Pickups like the F-150, Ranger, and Super Duty carry less weight over the rear wheels when the bed is empty, so they can lose traction more easily on ice in two-wheel drive. Check your owner's manual for when to use 4x4 modes. Some modes are meant only for slippery surfaces, not dry pavement.

Diesel Owners: Plan for the Cold

If you drive a Super Duty with a Power Stroke diesel, cold snaps call for a little extra care. Diesel fuel can thicken, or gel, in very cold temperatures, so consider a winter-blend fuel or an anti-gel additive before a hard freeze. If your truck is equipped with an engine block heater, plugging it in on frigid mornings can make starting easier. Your owner's manual has the details for your model.

Check Your Battery, Coolant, and Defrosters

Cold weather is hard on batteries, and a battery that's already weak may not start your vehicle on the first freezing morning. If you've noticed slow starts or dim lights, have it tested. Make sure your engine coolant (antifreeze) is at the right level and mix, and check that your front and rear defrosters clear the glass quickly. On equipped models, remote start through the Ford mobile app lets you warm up the cabin and start defrosting before you head out.

Keep a Winter Emergency Kit in Your Ford

Getting stuck is more serious in the cold. Keep a few basics in your vehicle through March:

• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Blanket, gloves, and a hat
• Phone charger or a charged power bank
• Flashlight with fresh batteries
• Jumper cables
• Bottled water and a few snacks
• A bag of sand or cat litter for traction

Keeping your fuel tank at least half full also gives you a cushion if you're stuck in traffic or need to run the heater while you wait.

Get Ready for Holiday Road Trips

Whether you're heading down to Little Rock or across the country, give your Ford a quick check before a long winter drive. Look over your tires, including the spare, confirm your oil change and tire rotation aren't overdue, and top off washer fluid with a winter-rated blend. If you're towing a trailer to the deer camp or the in-laws, double-check your hitch, trailer lights, and trailer brakes. Check the forecast along your entire route, too.

Winter Service at Red River Ford in Cabot

Our service team can inspect your battery, tires, brakes, coolant, wipers, and heater so your Ford is ready for ice, cold snaps, and holiday miles. Schedule your service appointment online or call us at 501-843-3536. You'll find us at 2040 W Main St. in Cabot.