Are mustangs good in the winter?

In general, Ford Mustangs are not ideal for harsh winter driving unless you take precautions; wild mustangs face winter challenges, though proper preparation and context can improve outcomes. This article explores the winter realities for both the traditional Ford Mustang and the wild horse populations, and offers practical guidance for drivers and managers alike.

Interpreting the question

Ford Mustang: winter driving reality

The gasoline Mustang lineup is predominantly rear-wheel drive, which can be challenging on snow and ice. There is no factory AWD option for the traditional pony car, while the Mustang Mach-E (an electric model in the same nameplate family) does offer all-wheel drive and performs differently in cold weather. Below are practical considerations and tips for winter conditions.

Before the following list, note the key realities for winter driving with a Mustang:

• Most Mustangs are rear-wheel drive (RWD); AWD is not available on the traditional gas models, which affects traction on snow and ice.


• The Mustang Mach-E is available with all-wheel drive and tends to handle winter weather more confidently, though cold weather still reduces electric range.


• Winter tires are highly recommended on any Mustang used in snowy climates; summer or all-season tires provide markedly less grip in cold conditions.


• Ground clearance on sporty coupes is relatively low, which can lead to snow buildup and scraping on slushy or plowed roads.


• In extreme cold, battery health (for the Mach-E) and engine fluids performance can degrade; plan for longer warm-up times and preconditioning if equipped.


• Safe winter driving requires slower speeds, longer stopping distances, and careful control of throttle, steering, and braking.

In short, the traditional gas Mustang isn’t naturally winter-capable without careful preparation, while the Mustang Mach-E offers better winter versatility due to its AWD and electric torque. The right approach depends on your climate and driving needs.

Wild mustangs: winter survival and management

Wild mustangs are hardy animals adapted to seasonal changes, but winter adds strain through forage limits, water availability, and exposure. Their welfare in cold months depends on regional conditions, herd dynamics, and human management efforts, including habitat support and feeding programs in some areas managed by land agencies and partners.

Before the following list, here is a quick context on how winter affects wild mustangs:

• Coats thicken in fall as an adaptation to colder temperatures, helping insulation during winter.


• Forage can become scarcer in snow-covered or drought-impacted areas, increasing energy demands for maintenance and thermoregulation.


• Water sources may freeze, requiring animals to rely on unfrozen springs, streams, or accessible melted water; some regions see supplemental water developments.


• Deep snow can raise energy expenditure as horses bale through drifts or move to reach feed and water; movement is essential but exhausting in heavy snow.


• Herd structure and social behavior help with protection and resource use, while habitat fragmentation and fencing can hinder access to food and water.


• Wild horse management programs (including monitoring, adoption opportunities, and, in some cases, supplemental feeding) influence winter welfare in managed ranges.

Wild mustangs show remarkable resilience, but winter stressors underscore the importance of habitat quality, water access, and responsible land management to sustain populations through harsh months.

Practical considerations for winter Mustangs (cars)

These are practical steps drivers can take to improve winter performance and safety when operating a Mustang in cold weather.

• Before driving in snow or ice, fit winter tires designed for cold temperatures; consider studless ice-grade tires for better traction.


• Know your drivetrain: the traditional Mustang is mostly rear-wheel drive; if you need AWD capability, consider the Mustang Mach-E or another vehicle designed for winter conditions.


• In very cold climates, use engine block heaters or preconditioning for gasoline engines (where available) to reduce cold-start strain and improve cabin comfort.


• Drive with increased following distances, gentler throttle inputs, and smooth steering to avoid wheel spin on slippery surfaces.


• Keep the fuel tank reasonably full to prevent fuel line issues and to provide extra range for unexpected detours or delays.


• Prepare an emergency kit: blanket, gloves, flashlight, first-aid supplies, a small shovel, traction aids, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks.


• Ensure wipers are rated for winter use and that you keep a reservoir of de-icer or windshield washer fluid with appropriate antifreeze content.


• In icy conditions, consider carrying traction aids (such as snow socks or chains) if your route may require them; verify legality and fitment for your vehicle.

When planning to drive a Mustang in winter, the takeaway is to prioritize traction, visibility, and emergency preparedness. The Mach-E’s AWD option and electric torque can help in snowy conditions, but range losses in cold weather require planning and charging strategies.

Summary

Winter brings distinct challenges for Mustangs, depending on the model. Traditional gas Mustangs, being rear-wheel drive, rely heavily on winter tires, careful driving, and climate-appropriate preparation to cope with snow and ice. The Mustang Mach-E offers better winter capability thanks to all-wheel drive and electric torque, albeit with the caveat of reduced range in cold weather. Wild mustangs face natural winter stresses but survive through thick coats, fat reserves, and access to forage and water—though habitat quality and management programs significantly shape their welfare. For both interpretations of “Mustang,” readiness and context determine how well they handle winter conditions.

What year to stay away from Mustang?

Years to avoid for the Ford Mustang include the 2015-2017 and 2019-2020 models, which have been associated with issues like transmission problems, electrical glitches, and warning light malfunctions. Older models to avoid include the 2005-2010 and 1999-2001 model years for various engine and design-related problems, as well as the entire Mustang II generation (1974-1978) due to poor performance. 
This video explains the issues with the 2015-2023 Ford Mustang S550 and provides a buyer's guide: 59sDiscerning CarsYouTube · Jan 15, 2024
Model years to avoid

• 2015-2017: Debut year of the sixth generation had numerous complaints, particularly for transmission, body panel, and electrical issues. The 2016 model year is noted for potential engine oil loss and air conditioning problems. 
• 2019-2020: Reported issues with cabin warning lights, including blind spot and forward collision warnings. 
• 2011-2012: Some 2011 models had issues after receiving the new "Coyote" 5.0L V8, and the 2012 model year saw further engine problems with the 3.7L V6. 
• 2005-2010: A long-running generation that has been cited for reliability issues. 
• 1999-2001: The 1999 facelift brought new issues, and the 2001 model also faced reliability concerns. 
• 1974-1978 (Mustang II): This entire generation is often considered one of the least reliable due to its poor performance and styling compared to other Mustang eras. 

General transmission issues

• 2011-2019: These years are frequently cited for problems with the MT82/MT82-D4 manual transmission, which can experience harsh shifting and other issues. 

Other notable years

• 1994-1995: These model years are on some "worst of" lists for specific problems. 
• 1996: The 1996 GT is sometimes criticized for a "dull" driving experience due to its new "mod" motor. 

Which Ford is best for snow?

Best Ford Models In The Snow
The Ford Explorer, for instance, is considered one of the top models for winter driving due to its robust performance and capabilities. It features an Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system that adjusts torque distribution for better traction on slippery surfaces.

Can you drive a Ford Mustang in the winter?

Yes, you can drive a Ford Mustang in the winter, but it requires careful preparation and cautious driving, especially if you have a rear-wheel-drive model. The best way to prepare is by equipping it with appropriate tires, such as winter or all-season tires, depending on your location's snow and ice conditions. You should also use your car's available winter driving modes and practice good habits like avoiding harsh acceleration and braking. 
Essential preparations

• Tires: Switch from summer tires to winter or all-season tires. LaFontaine Ford St. Clair recommends switching out summer tires for winter tires for better traction, and notes that all-season tires may suffice in areas with little snow. 
• Snow/Wet Mode: Modern Mustangs often have a "Snow/Wet" mode that reduces throttle response for better traction. 
• Winter tires on separate rims: To save on mounting costs each season, consider buying a second set of wheels with winter tires already on them. 

Driving tips

• Drive slowly and smoothly: Avoid harsh acceleration, braking, and steering to prevent skidding. 
• Be light on the throttle: Apply gas gently to prevent the rear wheels from spinning, especially when starting from a stop. 
• Increase following distance: Leave extra room between your Mustang and other vehicles to ensure you have adequate stopping distance. 
• Use winter driving modes: Engage the Snow/Wet mode, if available, as it helps manage power and traction. 
• Be mindful of ground clearance: The Mustang has limited ground clearance, which can be a problem in deep snow. Avoid deep, unplowed areas to prevent the car from getting stuck. 
• Turn off traction control only when necessary: Keep traction control on for most winter conditions. You may need to turn it off temporarily if you get stuck in very deep snow to maximize wheel spin and power. 
• Consider extra weight: Placing sandbags in the trunk can increase traction, but this can also be dangerous in an accident as the weight can continue moving forward. It is generally safer to rely on good tires and careful driving. 

Is January a good time to buy a Mustang?

During the winter season, dealerships often move the previous years' models for a discounted price. There are also relatively fewer people shopping for this type of vehicle in the colder weather. A less crowded dealership allows you to take as much time as you want to compare makes and models and set up a test drive.