Whether northern New Mexico hands us three feet of snow or just a light dust, one thing is guaranteed: cold weather is on its way. For many locals, from ranchers hauling water and feed to property owners stacking firewood, a UTV doesn’t get parked when winter hits, it becomes an essential workhorse. And for those eager to head into the high country, snowmobile season is right around the corner.

J&L Powersports will begin taking in snowmobiles for winter service around mid-to-late October. The key message this season is simple: don’t wait until the snow is already on the ground. Every year, machines sit through the fall only to refuse to start when the first heavy storm rolls through. Bringing equipment in early guarantees it’s turn-key ready the moment you need it.

Pre-Season Maintenance & Upgrades at J&L

Before temperatures drop, a thorough check up helps prevent costly breakdowns or being left out in the cold.

Key items to inspect include:

• Basic Maintenance Checks: Batteries, fluids, coolant, belts, brakes, tires, tracks, and overall safety inspections.
• Winter Work & Comfort Accessories: Upgrades can be installed ahead of time, including cab heaters, full enclosures, snowplows, winches, and track conversions.

Winter Trail Riding & Mountain Safety

Winter alters where and how you can ride. Many favorite summer trails in the surrounding mountains become inaccessible, hazardous, or legally off-limits. Keep these safety practices in mind before heading out. Below are tips directly from James and Lauren on how to play and work safe:

• Know Your Route: Verify that trails are legally open for winter use, and recognize that familiar terrain changes dramatically under snow, ice, and heavy drifting.
• Prepare for Rapid Weather Shifts: Mountain weather shifts rapidly, and temperatures plummet as soon as the sun drops. Take out behind the peaks a simple mechanical issue in July can become a critical emergency in January.
• Pack Essential Gear: Always inform someone of your route and expected return time. Carry extra warm layers, gloves, food, water, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, basic repair tools, recovery/tow gear, and a reliable communication device.
• Know When to Turn Back: Riding alone or pushing past safe limits in deep snow increases the risk of getting stranded. Turning around early is always better than facing a dangerous recovery.

Service Options

J&L Powersports services ATVs, UTVs, and snowmobiles, including older models that need extra care. For local residents unable to transport their machines, pickup and delivery services are available.

J&L Powersports LLC is located at 2627 NM-522, Questa. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.. For more information, call (575) 586-2417.