Safe Travels Start with Smart Prep
The holidays are all about connection—catching up with loved ones, sharing home-cooked meals, and creating memories that last a lifetime. But before you load the car up and hit the highway, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is just as ready for the journey as you are.
Holiday travel can mean long miles, unpredictable weather, icy roads, and heavy traffic. A little preparation now can save you a lot of stress later—especially if you’re driving across Utah or heading out of state to see family.
At Burt Brothers Tire & Service, we see it every year: drivers who skip pre-trip inspections and end up stranded, delayed, or worse. That’s why we recommend these five essential car safety checks before you head out for the holidays. They’ll keep your car running smoothly, your passengers safe, and your road trip memories full of joy—not breakdowns.
1. Tire Inspection and Pressure Check
When it comes to holiday car safety, your tires are your first line of defense. They’re the only part of your vehicle that actually touches the road, so their condition makes a huge difference—especially in winter weather.
Cold Weather Affects Tire Pressure
As temperatures drop, so does your tire pressure. For every 10-degree decrease in temperature, you lose about 1 PSI (pound per square inch). Low tire pressure can lead to poor fuel economy, uneven wear, and less grip on slick roads. Before hitting the highway, make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (you can find this inside your driver’s door or in your owner’s manual).
Check Tread Depth and Traction
Good tread depth is what allows your tires to grip the road, shed snow, and maintain control on ice. If your tread is below 4/32”, it’s time to consider replacement—especially if you’re driving through mountain passes or snowy regions.
Rotate or Replace if Needed
Regular rotations help your tires wear evenly and extend their lifespan. If it’s been a while, now’s the perfect time to schedule one before your trip.
Burt Brothers Can Help
At Burt Brothers, our technicians perform thorough tire inspections, rotations, and replacements. We carry trusted winter tire brands like Bridgestone Blizzak and offer expert advice on the best fit for your vehicle and driving habits. Whether you need a quick pressure check or a full set of new tires, we’ll help you hit the road with confidence.
2. Battery Test and Charging System Check
Few things ruin a road trip faster than a dead battery. Cold weather can zap battery performance, making it harder for your car to start—especially in freezing conditions.
Why Batteries Struggle in Winter
When temperatures drop, your battery’s chemical reactions slow down, reducing its ability to hold a charge. Combine that with the extra load from heaters, defrosters, and lights, and you have the perfect recipe for battery trouble.
Signs Your Battery May Be Failing
- Slow or hesitant engine cranking
- Dimming headlights or flickering interior lights
- Electrical issues (radio or power windows acting up)
- Battery warning light on the dashboard
If your battery is more than three years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested before your trip.
Burt Brothers’ Expert Testing
At Burt Brothers, we’ll test your battery and inspect your alternator and charging system to make sure everything is working properly. If your battery is weak or failing, we’ll recommend a reliable replacement suited for cold-weather performance. Our goal? To keep you from spending your holiday waiting for a tow truck in the cold.
3. Brake System Inspection
Nothing is more important than stopping safely—especially when roads are slick or traffic is heavy.
Why Responsive Brakes Matter
Holiday travel means more cars on the road and unpredictable conditions. Having brakes that respond instantly can prevent collisions and help you navigate safely through snow and ice.
What to Check
A comprehensive brake inspection should include:
- Brake pads and rotors: Worn pads or warped rotors can reduce braking power.
- Brake fluid: Low or contaminated fluid affects pressure and response time.
- Brake lines: Rust or leaks can compromise performance.
Burt Brothers’ Brake Services
Our certified technicians perform detailed brake inspections and offer complete brake service packages, including pad replacement, fluid flushes, and rotor resurfacing or replacement. We also include brake checks in our winter readiness inspections, ensuring your vehicle can stop safely when it matters most.
4. Fluid Top-Offs and Winter Blends
Fluids are the lifeblood of your car. As temperatures drop, using the right blends and maintaining proper levels can make the difference between a smooth drive and a roadside emergency.
Key Fluids to Check
- Antifreeze/Coolant: Prevents freezing and protects your engine from extreme cold.
- Engine Oil: Winter-grade oil flows better in cold temps, reducing wear at startup.
- Brake Fluid: Ensures strong, consistent braking performance.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: Use freeze-resistant blends to maintain visibility.
Burt Brothers Makes It Easy
We offer fluid service bundles that cover all major fluids and use blends designed for Utah’s winter conditions. Our technicians will also check for leaks and contamination, giving you peace of mind for the miles ahead.
5. Visibility Upgrades: Wipers, Lights, and Windshield Treatments
Seeing—and being seen—is critical for safe winter driving.
Replace Worn Wiper Blades
If your wipers leave streaks or chatter against the glass, it’s time to replace them. Snow and sleet can quickly reduce visibility, and fresh blades make a huge difference.
Check All Exterior Lights
Headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are your communication with other drivers. Clean them thoroughly and replace any burned-out bulbs. Consider upgrading to brighter bulbs if you do a lot of night driving.
Improve Visibility with Treatments
A water-repellent windshield treatment helps rain and snow bead off quickly, improving visibility during storms.
Burt Brothers Has You Covered
We offer bundled visibility services that include wiper replacement, headlight inspections, and professional windshield treatments—all designed to help you see clearly no matter the weather.
Holiday Car Safety Checklist
| Safety Area | Recommended Action | Frequency |
| Tires | Inspect, rotate, or replace | Every season |
| Battery | Test and replace if needed | Every season |
| Brakes | Inspect pads and fluid | Every 6–12 months |
| Fluids | Top off with winter blends | Every season |
| Visibility | Replace blades, check lights | Every season |
FAQ: Holiday Car Safety
What’s the most important car check before a road trip?
Tires and batteries are top priorities—both affect safety and reliability in cold weather.
Can I do these checks myself?
Some, yes. You can check tire pressure, wiper blades, and fluids at home. But professional inspections at Burt Brothers can catch issues you might miss, like worn brake components or charging system problems.
Does Burt Brothers offer holiday travel prep?
Absolutely. Our seasonal service bundles cover all five areas—tires, battery, brakes, fluids, and visibility—so you can hit the road with complete confidence.
Visit Family with Confidence This Holiday Season
Don’t let car trouble spoil your holiday cheer. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping you and your family safe on the road. Whether you’re heading across town or across the state, take time to schedule your holiday vehicle inspection at Burt Brothers Tire & Service.
With convenient locations across Utah—from Farmington and American Fork to St. George—we’re here to make sure your car is ready for whatever your holiday road trip brings.
Drive safe. Enjoy the journey. And visit family with confidence this holiday season—Burt Brothers will help you get there.
