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Sep 28, 2023

Louisiana is known for its mild winters, but that doesn’t mean you can completely ignore the need to prepare your Lincoln vehicle for the occasional chilly days and unexpected winter weather. While snowfall is rare in the Bayou State, cold temperatures, freezing rain, and frost can still pose challenges for your vehicle’s performance and safety. In this blog, we’ll explore some essential tips from Baldwin Lincoln to help you prepare your Lincoln vehicle for winter weather in Louisiana.

1. Check Your Tires

Your tires are crucial for maintaining traction on slippery roads. Ensure that your Lincoln’s tires have adequate tread depth and consider switching to all-season tires if you often find yourself driving in colder conditions. All-season tires provide a better grip on icy and wet roads, enhancing your vehicle’s stability and safety.

2. Monitor Tire Pressure

Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, affecting your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure to ensure optimal performance. You can find the correct tire pressure values in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb.

3. Inspect Your Brakes

Properly functioning brakes are essential for winter driving. Have your Lincoln’s brakes inspected by our trusted technicians to ensure they’re in good condition. Worn-out brake pads and rotors can lead to longer stopping distances, which is particularly dangerous in slippery conditions.

4. Change Your Wiper Blades

Clear visibility is crucial in winter weather, especially when freezing rain and sleet are in the forecast. Replace your wiper blades if they’re streaking or leaving streaks on the windshield. 

5. Keep Your Lincoln’s Fluids Topped Off

Check and top off essential fluids, such as antifreeze/coolant and windshield washer fluid. Antifreeze helps prevent your engine from freezing, while winter-specific windshield washer fluid is designed to prevent freezing on your windshield, ensuring a clear view while driving.

6. Maintain Your Battery

Cold temperatures can strain your vehicle’s battery, potentially leading to a dead battery on a chilly morning. Have your battery tested to ensure it’s in good working order and consider replacing it if it’s nearing the end of its life. Clean the battery terminals and ensure they’re securely connected.

7. Prepare an Emergency Kit

While severe winter weather events are rare in Louisiana, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Assemble an emergency kit that includes items like blankets, a flashlight, non-perishable snacks, a first-aid kit, and a small shovel. These items can come in handy if you ever find yourself stranded in the cold.

8. Drive Cautiously

When winter weather does strike, exercise caution when driving. Reduce your speed, increase following distances, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Lincoln vehicles often come equipped with advanced safety features, so familiarize yourself with them to enhance your winter driving experience.

Stay Safe this Winter 

Even though Louisiana’s winters are relatively mild compared to northern states, it’s essential to prepare your Lincoln Aviator, Navigator, Nautilus, or Corsair for the occasional cold snap and winter weather. By following these tips and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure your vehicle’s safety and reliability during the winter months, no matter how infrequent the chilly weather may be in the Pelican State. If you prefer, the Baldwin Lincoln Service Department is here to help with a complimentary multi-point inspection of your vehicle to keep your Lincoln or Ford in tip-top condition. Stay safe on the roads and enjoy the comfort and performance of your Lincoln vehicle year-round. To learn more about winter weather service tips or to schedule an appointment with our service department, contact Baldwin Lincoln at 1730 N Hwy 190 Covington, LA 70433. Proudly serving the community since 1950.