How to Prepare Your Car for the Winter

November 29, 2021 · 4 min read

Vehicle driving through snowy trees during winter

Winter in the Black Hills is beautiful, but the weather can be unpredictable, bringing freezing temperatures, icy roads, and heavy snow. No one likes encountering car problems in these types of conditions. Winter can easily magnify pre-existing issues. It’s best to have your vehicle checked before the cold sets in and you find yourself stranded on the side of the road. Here are some tips or reminders to keep you and your vehicle safe during the winter months ahead.

Battery

Car batteries may struggle a bit more in the winter. No one likes waking up to a dead battery in the morning, so it’s a good idea to get your battery checked. Also, be sure to keep it clean by removing any buildup or grime on the battery terminals and cables.

Coolant

Clean, flush, and replace your coolant if needed. Check for any potential leaks. Doing so will prevent your engine from freezing or overheating in cold temperatures, and protect your cooling system from corrosion such as rust or scale formation.

Heating/Cooling Systems

Make sure your defrosters, heater, AND air conditioner are working correctly. The heat will keep you warm and prevent your windows from fogging up. Your A/C will also help with foggy windows by pulling moisture from the air.

Double-check your wiper blades and washer fluid. Cold weather washer fluid is beneficial in the winter. You should change your wiper blades every 6-12 months. Our parts department supplies genuine Motorcraft wipers if you’re due for a replacement. (P.S. Do not use your wiper blades as an ice-scraper!)

Lights

Regardless of the weather, you should ensure all of your lights are in working order. Replace broken or faulty bulbs. Wintertime brings shorter days; therefore we will be driving in the dark more often. If your lights are yellow or dull, switch them out, and opt for the brightest illumination possible. If they simply need a cleaning, contact our accessories department to schedule a headlight restoration appointment!

Tires

Consider investing in a good set of winter tires, as they truly make a difference. Winter tires will help with traction on cold or snow-covered pavement. Otherwise, make sure the tread on your tires is at least 5/32 inches. An easy way to check your tread is by placing a penny into the track. If you can see all of Abraham Lincoln’s head, your tread is too thin!

Keep an eye on your tire pressure as well. You will lose up to one pound per square inch of pressure with every 10-degree drop in air temperature. As a result, driving on tires with insufficient pressure can lead to premature wear and less traction.

Fuel

It’s a good idea to keep your gas tank at least half full at all times during the winter to impede moisture build-up, which could ultimately cause water to accumulate in your fuel system. Moreover, you don’t want to get stranded on the side of the road with an empty tank!

4X4 Fluids

Winter is transfer case season, being four-wheel drive is used more often in pickups and SUVs. Special gear oil is used to keep your transfer case lubricated and cooled. Keep your fluids in good shape to prevent transfer case and differential failures.

Emergency Kit

Accidents happen. Be prepared! Put together a winter emergency kit to keep in your car. Your kit could include items such as extra clothing, blankets, food, water, first-aid, a flashlight, jumper cables, road flares, a camping shovel, tow strap, ice scraper, bag of sand (traction), and anything else you may need. It’s also a good idea to keep your phone fully charged and even pack along a portable charger in case you need to call for help.

(Check out this article for more tips on putting together a winter car emergency kit!)

White’s Canyon Ford is Here For You

When it comes to your winter vehicle needs, White’s Canyon Ford is here to help. Whether you need preventative maintenance or a particular part or accessory, give us a call! If you’re in the market for a 4WD or AWD vehicle to better handle the elements, we have a great selection of new and pre-owned vehicles to choose from. Our dealership is dedicated to excellent customer service. Let us show you the difference between us and our competitors this winter! Above all, we hope you stay warm and safe this season.

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Jun 04, 2026 in Owner Experience

5 Signs Your Brakes Need Service

When it comes to vehicle safety, few systems are as important as your brakes. When something feels “off,” it is worth paying attention. Whether you are commuting through Spearfish, heading toward Rapid City, driving in the hills near Sturgis, or making the trip from Belle Fourche or Gillette, dependable brakes matter every mile of the way. At White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln in Spearfish, SD, our service team can inspect your braking system and help determine whether your vehicle needs brake pads, rotor service, brake fluid service, caliper repair, ABS diagnostics, or a complete brake inspection. Here are five common signs it may be time to schedule brake service. 1. Your Brakes Are Squealing or Grinding A high-pitched squeal when braking is often one of the first signs that your brake pads may be wearing down. Many brake pads have built-in wear indicators that produce noise as the pad material wears down. Grinding is more serious and may mean the pads are worn enough that metal components are making contact. Ignoring these sounds can lead to bigger repair costs, including possible damage to your rotors. If your vehicle squeals, scrapes, or grinds when you stop, it is best to have your brakes inspected sooner rather than later. 2. You Feel Vibration When Braking If you notice vibration in the brake pedal or steering wheel when slowing down, your rotors may be uneven, warped, or worn. This can happen over time from heat, heavy braking, mountain driving, or regular wear and tear. Rotor issues can affect how smoothly and confidently your vehicle stops. Depending on the condition of your braking system, your vehicle may need rotor resurfacing or rotor replacement. 3. The Brake Pedal Feels Soft or Spongy If your brake pedal feels soft, spongy, or lower than normal, it can be a warning sign of brake fluid issues, air in the brake lines, or another hydraulic system concern. Because your brakes rely on proper pressure to stop the vehicle, changes in pedal feel should not be ignored. If your pedal feels different than usual, schedule a brake inspection right away. 4. Your Vehicle Pulls to One Side When Stopping If your vehicle pulls to one side when you brake, it may be a sign of uneven brake pad wear, a sticking caliper, contaminated brake fluid, or another problem within the braking system. This can affect both braking performance and vehicle control, especially on wet roads, gravel, snow, or uneven Black Hills terrain. 5. Your Brake Warning Light or ABS Light Is On Your brake warning light or ABS light is your vehicle’s way of telling you something needs attention. It may be related to low brake fluid, worn components, ABS system issues, or another concern that requires proper diagnostics. White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln offers brake inspections and ABS diagnostics to help identify the issue and recommend the right repair. Why Brake Service Matters in the Black Hills Driving conditions around Spearfish can be hard on brakes. Hills, changing weather, towing, stop-and-go traffic, gravel roads, and winter conditions can all add wear to your braking system. Regular brake inspections can help catch small issues before they turn into bigger problems. Most brake pads last somewhere around 30,000 to 70,000 miles. Their lifespan can vary widely based on your driving habits, vehicle type, and road conditions, making regular inspections an important part of routine maintenance. Ford owners can find additional maintenance information through Ford Owner Resources. Schedule Brake Repair in Spearfish, SD Whether you drive a Ford F-150, Explorer, Bronco Sport, Maverick, or any make or model, our service team is here to help keep your vehicle stopping safely. At White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln, our brake services include: Brake pad replacement Rotor resurfacing or replacement Brake caliper repair Brake fluid flushes ABS diagnostics Complete brake inspections If you are hearing noises, feeling vibration, noticing a soft brake pedal, or seeing a warning light, schedule your brake inspection with White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln in Spearfish, SD. Serving Spearfish, Rapid City, Sturgis, Belle Fourche, Gillette, and the surrounding Black Hills area.

7 Signs Your Ford Diesel Truck Needs Service

May 08, 2026 in Owner Experience

Ford Diesel Repair: 7 Signs Your Truck Needs Service

If you rely on your diesel truck for towing, hauling, ranch work, construction, or daily driving around the Black Hills, staying ahead of repairs matters. Modern Ford Super Duty trucks are built tough, but even dependable diesel engines need maintenance and repairs over time, especially when they’re working hard in South Dakota and Wyoming conditions. At White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln, our certified diesel technicians diagnose and repair Ford Power Stroke engines every day. From Rapid City to Gillette, we help diesel owners catch small problems before they turn into major repairs. Here are seven common warning signs your Ford diesel truck may need professional service. 1. Hard Starts or Long Cranking If your diesel truck takes longer to start than normal, especially during cold mornings in Spearfish or the Black Hills, it could point to several issues, including: Weak glow plugs Fuel system problems Injector issues Battery or charging system concerns High-pressure fuel pump problems A diesel engine should start consistently and smoothly. Ignoring hard starts can eventually leave you stranded when temperatures drop. 2. Loss of Power While Towing or Accelerating A noticeable drop in performance is one of the biggest signs that something isn’t right. If your truck feels sluggish pulling a trailer or struggles climbing hills, the issue may involve: Turbocharger problems Fuel delivery restrictions DEF system faults EGR system buildup Boost leaks Modern diesel trucks rely on multiple systems working together. Even a minor issue can affect towing performance and fuel economy. 3. Excessive Exhaust Smoke Diesel trucks naturally produce some exhaust, but abnormal smoke color can help identify problems quickly. Black smoke may indicate fuel system or airflow issues White smoke can point to injector or combustion problems Blue smoke may signal oil consumption If your truck suddenly starts smoking more than usual, it’s a good idea to have it inspected before additional damage occurs. 4. Check Engine Light or DEF Warning Messages Today’s Ford diesel trucks are packed with advanced emissions technology. You should never ignore warning lights related to the DEF system, emissions equipment, or engine performance. Common diesel warning messages can involve: DEF system service EGR system faults Sensor failures Fuel system issues Turbocharger performance concerns At White’s Canyon Ford, our technicians use factory Ford diagnostic equipment designed specifically for Ford diesel platforms. 5. Poor Fuel Economy If you suddenly notice more trips to the pump, your diesel engine may not be operating efficiently. Reduced fuel economy is often tied to: Dirty fuel injectors Turbocharger inefficiency Fuel filter restrictions Emissions system issues Poor combustion performance Diesel trucks are designed for long-term efficiency. A drop in MPG is usually a sign that something needs attention. Learn more about fuel economy here. 6. Rough Idle or Excessive Engine Noise Your Power Stroke engine should idle relatively smoothly. If you notice shaking, roughness, knocking, or unusual ticking sounds, it could indicate: Injector issues Fuel system concerns Internal engine wear Air or fuel delivery problems Addressing these problems right away can help prevent larger repair bills later. 7. Increased Regeneration Cycles Frequent DPF regenerations or constant regeneration warnings may indicate a deeper issue with the emissions system. This can sometimes be caused by: Excessive soot buildup EGR system problems DEF issues Faulty sensors Driving conditions combined with maintenance needs Ignoring regeneration concerns can eventually impact performance and drivability. Trust Your Diesel Truck to Ford-Trained Technicians Diesel repairs require specialized tools, training, and experience. At White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln, our diesel technicians bring over 50 years of combined experience working on Ford Power Stroke engines. We proudly serve drivers from Spearfish, Rapid City, Sturgis, Belle Fourche, Gillette, and surrounding areas. Whether your truck needs diagnostics, turbocharger repair, DEF system service, fuel system repairs, or routine diesel maintenance, our team is here to help keep your truck working hard. Schedule Ford Diesel Service in Spearfish, SD If your diesel truck is showing any of these warning signs, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Schedule diesel service with White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln Service Department or contact our team today to have your Ford Power Stroke inspected by certified diesel technicians. To find your owner's manual, click here.

Mar 30, 2026 in Owner Experience

Transmission Repair: Warning Signs, Costs & When to Take Action

Your vehicle’s transmission is one of its most critical — and complex — components. Whether you drive a truck, SUV, or sedan around Spearfish, Rapid City, or the surrounding Black Hills area, keeping your transmission in top condition is essential for performance, safety, and long-term reliability. At White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln, we help drivers catch issues early, avoid costly repairs, and stay confidently on the road. Common Signs Your Transmission Needs Attention Transmission problems don’t usually appear overnight; they build over time. Knowing what to watch for can save you thousands. 1. Slipping Gears If your vehicle unexpectedly changes gears or struggles to stay in gear, that’s a clear warning sign. 2. Rough or Delayed Shifting Hard shifts, hesitation, or clunking noises when changing gears often indicate internal wear or fluid issues. 3. Strange Noises Grinding, whining, or humming sounds, especially while accelerating, should never be ignored. 4. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is typically bright red and slightly sweet-smelling. Spots on your driveway could mean a leak that needs immediate attention. 5. Burning Smell Overheated or degraded transmission fluid can produce a noticeable burning odor. 6. Check Engine Light Your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics may detect transmission-related issues before you feel them. Why Early Transmission Repair Matters Ignoring small transmission issues can quickly turn into major (and expensive) repairs. Early service can help you: Prevent full transmission failure Avoid costly replacements Improve fuel efficiency Extend the life of your vehicle At White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln, our factory-trained technicians (who have over 45 years of combined experience!) use advanced diagnostic tools to quickly and accurately pinpoint issues, saving you time and money. Following Ford's recommended service intervals can also help extend the life of your transmission. Transmission Repair vs. Replacement: What to Expect Not all transmission problems require a full replacement. Minor Repairs May Include: Fluid flush and replacement Seal or gasket repairs Sensor replacements More Extensive Repairs May Include: Clutch repairs (manual transmissions) Torque converter replacement Internal component rebuilds Full transmission replacement is typically only necessary in severe cases, and catching issues early can often help you avoid it altogether. We Service All Makes & Models Even though we specialize in Ford and Lincoln vehicles, our experienced service team works on all makes and models. Whether you’re driving a hardworking truck, a family SUV, or a daily commuter, we’ve got you covered. Local, Trusted Transmission Service in Spearfish Drivers across Spearfish, Sturgis, Belle Fourche, Rapid City, and even Gillette trust White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln for honest recommendations and high-quality repairs. We’re committed to: Transparent communication No-pressure service recommendations Getting the job done right the first time Free Pickup & Delivery Available Busy schedule? No problem. We offer free pickup and delivery within 30 miles, making it easier than ever to stay on top of your vehicle’s maintenance, including transmission service. Schedule Your Transmission Inspection Today If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above — or just want peace of mind — now is the time to act. 👉 Schedule your transmission inspection with White’s Canyon Ford & Lincoln today and keep your vehicle shifting smoothly for miles to come.

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White's Canyon Ford is your go-to Ford dealership in Spearfish, SD, proudly serving Rapid City, Sturgis, Belle Fourche, and Gillette. We offer a wide selection of new Ford trucks and SUVs, including the F-150, Super Duty, Maverick, Bronco, and Explorer. Whether you're looking for a new or used Ford, expert Ford service and repairs, or affordable financing, we've got you covered.