Hey, we are moving to Anchorage from Houston (care to guess what we do?) and we're are exploring vehicles... I currently have a 2013 Oxford White C-Max SEL, and love it (I had an EcoBoost F-150 Supercrew before, and it was just too much - the C-Max does what I need so much better, especially since I added a 2" receiver to it for a bike rack and a StowAway2). But, the big concern in Anchorage is the snow.... We are considering living on the Hillside (or at least in the south). Wife has an Explorer Sport 4WD that she will use to get to and from work (I will be the stay-at-home parent), so we'll have space and capabilities to 'get out', at least until we decide we need a 4WD Suburban... I'm thinking of keeping the C-Max because the last two times we've moved, its taken each of us two cars to find what we wanted, and I want to have a chance to live in a place before deciding on something different (like a Suburban....). So, I guess I have the following questions: Is the C-Max tenable in Anchorage? I grew up in Michigan, and have a lot of snow-driving experience (and I'm not a leadfoot). If I decide to sell in 6-18 months, is there a market for used C-Max's in Anchorage? Or is the car lot going to look at me like I'm crazy AND stupid? Anybody know how hard it is to install the ICE block heater? Do I need to drain the oil, or is it a relatively straightforward bolt-on? Any other thoughts on having a C-Max in Anchorage? What's the best source to get a new set of rims for snow tires/studs? Do I need all four, or is it fine to just swap the front? Snow tires versus studs - thoughts? Thanks in advance! Mike
