Winterizing Your RAM Truck: Cold-Weather Tips for Plattsburgh, NY Drivers 

​​Winter in Plattsburgh, NY can be brutally cold, with snow, slush, and icy roads making it tough for even the most powerful vehicles. That’s why getting your RAM truck winter-ready is essential to maintain performance, safety, and reliability. Whether you’re tackling snowy backroads or cruising along city streets, taking proactive steps before the first freeze can make a huge difference. Let’s explore how to optimize your RAM engine, install snow tires or chains, and schedule winter service to prepare for the cold season.

Why Winterizing Your RAM Truck Matters

When temperatures drop, your RAM engine and components work harder to perform efficiently. Cold weather thickens fluids, reduces battery capacity, and decreases tire pressure. Without proper maintenance, this can lead to poor performance, lower fuel economy, or even breakdowns. Winterizing your vehicle helps protect vital systems, improve traction, and ensure you’re ready for any snowy challenge in Plattsburgh.

Think of it as giving your truck a winter coat—strong, insulated, and ready for anything Mother Nature sends your way.


​Visit our service center for the best hassle-free, affordable winter service.

1. Check and Replace Fluids Regularly

Winter temperatures can reduce the effectiveness of critical fluids in your RAM truck. When temperatures drop, oil and coolant can thicken, limiting circulation and causing undue stress on your engine.

• Coolant (Antifreeze): Keeps the engine from freezing. Ensure it’s a 50:50 mix of antifreeze and water.
• Engine Oil: Switch to a winter-grade oil that flows better in cold conditions.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Use a winter-rated formula that won’t freeze on contact.

Keeping fluids fresh and topped off helps your RAM engine start easily and operate efficiently during cold mornings in Plattsburgh.


​Visit our service center for the best hassle-free, affordable winter service.

2. Test and Maintain Your Battery

Your truck’s battery capacity drops significantly in cold weather—sometimes by 30% or more. To prevent getting stranded, have your battery professionally tested before the first deep freeze.

• Inspect for corrosion: Clean battery terminals regularly.
• Check voltage output: A healthy battery should measure above 12.4 volts.
• Consider a replacement: If it’s more than 3 years old, replace it early.

Cold weather can cause slow starts, so a well-charged battery ensures your RAM engine cranks reliably even in freezing Plattsburgh mornings.

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​Visit our service center for the best hassle-free, affordable winter service.

3. Upgrade to Snow Tires or Use Snow Chains

In Plattsburgh, icy and snowy roads demand better traction than standard all-season tires can provide. Snow tires are designed with special rubber compounds that stay flexible in low temperatures, offering superior grip.

• Snow Tires: Provide better traction on snow and ice.
• Snow Chains: Offer maximum grip in extreme conditions or off-road situations.
• Tire Pressure: Cold air reduces pressure, so check weekly.

Upgrading to snow tires or adding snow chains ensures your RAM truck handles confidently, reducing the risk of sliding or losing control on slippery roads.

4. Keep Your RAM Engine in Top Condition

Cold weather can thicken oil, affect ignition, and slow engine performance. To keep your RAM engine running smoothly, proper maintenance is key.

• Use manufacturer-recommended winter oil.
• Check spark plugs for signs of wear or corrosion.
• Inspect the air filter and replace if dirty.

Regular servicing helps maintain proper combustion and power, ensuring that your truck starts effortlessly and performs consistently—even in single-digit temperatures.

5. Inspect Wipers and Lights

Visibility is one of the biggest challenges of winter driving. Make sure your wiper blades and headlights are functioning at their best.

• Replace old wipers with winter-grade blades that resist ice buildup.
• Use washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures.
• Check all lights—headlights, taillights, and brake lights—for brightness.
   

Good visibility saves lives. When you can see and be seen clearly, your RAM truck stays safer during snowstorms and foggy commutes through Plattsburgh.

6. Check Tire Tread and Pressure

Tires lose air pressure faster in cold weather. A drop of just 10°F can lower tire pressure by 1 PSI, reducing grip on icy roads.

• Measure tread depth: It should be at least 4/32 inches.
• Check pressure weekly: Keep them inflated to the recommended PSI.
• Rotate tires: Regular rotations ensure even wear and longer tire life.

Properly inflated tires provide better traction, braking, and fuel economy, especially when paired with snow tires or chains.

7. Protect Your Truck’s Exterior and Undercarriage

Road salt and slush can corrode metal surfaces, leading to costly damage. Protect your truck’s paint and frame before winter.

• Apply a protective wax or undercoating before the first snowfall.
• Wash your truck regularly, including the undercarriage.
• Touch up paint chips to prevent rust formation.

​Visit our service center for the best hassle-free, affordable winter service.

Keeping your RAM clean isn’t just about looks—it’s about long-term protection and preserving its rugged durability.

8. Prepare Your Heating and Defrost Systems

Cold-weather comfort and safety depend heavily on your heating and defrost systems.

• Test your heater before temperatures plummet.

• Ensure defrosters clear both front and rear windows quickly.
  Replace clogged cabin air filters for stronger airflow.

With a functional defrost system, your windshield remains clear and fog-free, letting you drive confidently through Plattsburgh’s frosty mornings.

9. Schedule Winter Service

Scheduling professional maintenance ensures your RAM truck is fully ready for winter. Certified technicians can inspect vital components that may not be visible to the untrained eye.

A winter service checklist usually includes:

• Battery and charging system testing

• Fluid replacement (oil, coolant, brake, washer)

• Brake and suspension inspection

• Tire check and rotation

By scheduling winter service early, you avoid long waits and ensure your truck’s safety systems are optimized for snow and ice.

10. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Truck

Even well-maintained trucks can face unpredictable conditions. Having a winter emergency kit ensures you’re prepared for any situation.

Include essentials like:

• Ice scraper and snow brush

• Jumper cables

• Flashlight and batteries

• Blanket, gloves, and thermal wear

• Non-perishable snacks and water

A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping you safe during unexpected snowstorms or roadside emergencies.

11. Use the Correct Oil and Antifreeze Mixtures

Oil and antifreeze are crucial for RAM engine longevity. Low temperatures can thicken oil and reduce cooling efficiency.

• Use low-viscosity oil such as 5W-30 for smooth lubrication.

• Maintain a 50:50 antifreeze-to-water ratio for maximum protection.

• Flush old coolant if it’s more than two years old.

Using the right fluids ensures efficient engine performance, prevents freezing, and reduces wear on vital engine parts during cold weather.

12. Order Winter Parts Before the Season Starts

Avoid shortages by ordering winter parts early. Plattsburgh’s cold snaps can arrive suddenly, so preparation is key.

• Snow tires and snow chains

• Wiper blades and washer fluid

• Heated seat accessories or remote start systems
   

When you order winter parts in advance, you ensure your RAM is fully equipped and ready to tackle even the toughest snow days.

13. Stay Proactive: Winter Driving Habits Matter

Winterizing your RAM isn’t just about maintenance—it’s about mindful driving too.

• Accelerate and brake gently to maintain traction.

• Increase following distance on icy roads.

• Avoid cruise control in snowy conditions.

Your RAM truck’s power and four-wheel-drive capabilities help, but smart driving makes the biggest difference in winter safety.

Stay Ready for Winter with Huttig Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM

When winter arrives in Plattsburgh, make sure your RAM truck is prepared to power through every icy mile. From snow tires and snow chains to RAM engine tune-ups, Huttig Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM has everything you need for reliable winter driving. Our certified technicians can help you schedule winter service or order winter parts to ensure your truck performs at its best all season long.

Drive with confidence this winter—trust Huttig Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM to keep your truck safe, strong, and ready for adventure.