Anyone who has driven Route 81 between Cortland and Syracuse in January, or climbed the hills around Ithaca after a lake-effect snow, knows that winter in Central New York is not a suggestion. The right vehicle makes the difference between getting to work on time and waiting for the plows. At Cortland Used Cars, most of our inventory is all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive for exactly that reason.
AWD vs. 4x4: Which Do You Need?
All-wheel drive (AWD) is always on and sends power to the wheels with the most grip, all without you doing anything. It is a great fit for commuters who drive mostly plowed roads to Cortland, Ithaca, Syracuse, or Binghamton and want sure footing on slush and black ice. Popular AWD choices on our lot include the Subaru Outback, Forester, Crosstrek and Ascent, Honda CR-V, Chevrolet Equinox and Traverse, Ford Edge and Escape, and Kia Telluride.
Four-wheel drive (4x4) is built for deeper snow, unplowed back roads, steep driveways, and towing. If you live out in the country around Homer, Truxton, Dryden, or Groton, or you plow, haul, or tow, a 4x4 truck or SUV is the way to go. We regularly stock 4x4 Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150 and Ranger, Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, and Jeep Grand Cherokee models.
What to Check Before Winter
Tires: AWD and 4x4 help you go, but tires help you stop. Good all-season or dedicated winter tires matter more than anything else.
Battery: Cold mornings are hard on weak batteries. Have it tested before the first deep freeze.
Wipers and washer fluid: Use winter-rated fluid so it will not freeze on the windshield.
Heated features: Heated seats, heated mirrors, and remote start are not just comfort items here. They make a real difference on a 10-degree morning.
Shop AWD and 4x4 Vehicles in Cortland, NY
Browse our AWD and 4x4 SUVs and 4x4 pickup trucks online, or see our full used car inventory. Every listing includes photos and a CARFAX report so you can shop with confidence before you visit. Trades are welcome and financing is available.
Our new service department can also help get your current vehicle ready for winter with oil changes, brakes, tires, alignments, and NYS inspections. Call service at (607) 218-7878.
Stop by Cortland Used Cars at 3600 West Road in Cortland, NY, or call us at (607) 756-8089. Sales hours are Monday through Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 3pm.
