Utah winters are no joke—freezing temps, slick roads, and early sunsets can turn even a short drive into a serious challenge. But most winter car troubles aren’t bad luck—they’re preventable. Cold weather puts extra stress on your vehicle’s battery, tires, fluids, and safety systems, making regular maintenance essential for safe, reliable driving.
At Burt Brothers Tire & Service, we know how unpredictable winter can be. That’s why our ASE-certified technicians help Utah drivers prepare before the cold sets in. Whether it’s a quick battery test or a complete seasonal inspection, preventive maintenance keeps your car running smoothly and helps you avoid costly breakdowns when you need your vehicle most.
Why Winter Is Harder on Your Vehicle
Winter doesn’t just make driving uncomfortable—it puts your vehicle’s systems to the test. Here’s how cold weather impacts your car and why preventive maintenance is key to staying road-ready:
1. Cold Temperatures Drain Battery Power
When the temperature drops, your battery’s ability to hold a charge decreases. In fact, a fully charged battery at 80°F operates at only about 60% of its capacity when it’s freezing. Combine that with thicker engine oil and longer cranking times, and your battery is suddenly working twice as hard. That’s why battery testing and replacement are among the first steps in any good winter prep plan.
2. Tire Pressure Drops and Traction Suffers
For every 10°F drop in temperature, your tires lose about 1 PSI of air pressure. Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency, wear unevenly, and provide less grip—especially dangerous on icy or snowy roads. Seasonal inspections and tire rotations are critical, and switching to dedicated winter tires offers even better control in freezing conditions.
3. Fluids Thicken and Lose Effectiveness
Cold weather can affect everything from your oil to your transmission fluid. Thicker oil takes longer to circulate, antifreeze becomes less efficient, and low washer fluid can freeze on your windshield. A fluid check and top-off ensure your engine and visibility systems can handle the cold.
4. Visibility Takes a Hit
Between fog, early sunsets, and salt spray, visibility is often compromised during winter driving. Old wiper blades and untreated windshields make it even worse. Replacing your wiper blades and applying a professional windshield treatment—like the kind offered at Burt Brothers—can make a huge difference in clarity and safety.
5. Neglected Maintenance Leads to Costly Breakdowns
Skipping preventive service might save time now, but it can lead to expensive repairs later. A weak battery, worn tires, or dirty oil can all contribute to roadside breakdowns—especially in freezing conditions where a tow truck might take hours to arrive.
Top Preventive Maintenance Services for Winter
When you bring your vehicle to Burt Brothers, our technicians perform a thorough winter inspection to ensure every system is ready for the cold. Here’s what’s typically included:
Battery Testing and Replacement
We use professional diagnostic tools to check your battery’s charge, connections, and overall condition. If it’s weak or corroded, we’ll replace it with a high-performance battery that’s built for cold weather reliability.
Tire Inspection, Rotation, and Winter Upgrades
We’ll inspect your tread depth and sidewalls for wear or cracking, rotate your tires for even performance, and recommend the best winter tire options if needed. Brands like Bridgestone Blizzak or Michelin X-Ice provide superior traction and braking on snow and ice.
Fluid Top-Offs: Antifreeze, Oil, Washer Fluid, and More
Our technicians will check your antifreeze levels and condition, ensure your oil viscosity matches winter temperatures, and refill your washer fluid with a cold-weather formula that won’t freeze.
Brake System Checks and Pad Replacements
Stopping distance is already longer on icy roads. The last thing you want is worn brake pads or low brake fluid. We’ll make sure your braking system performs reliably in all conditions.
Wiper Blade Replacement and Windshield Treatments
If your wipers streak, skip, or chatter, it’s time to replace them. We’ll install durable blades designed for winter use and can apply a hydrophobic windshield coating that repels snow and sleet for better visibility.
Winter Maintenance Checklist
| Service Area | Recommended Action | Frequency |
| Battery | Test and replace if needed | Every season |
| Tires | Inspect, rotate, or upgrade | Every season |
| Fluids | Top off or flush as needed | Every season |
| Brakes | Inspect pads and rotors | Every 6–12 months |
| Wipers & Visibility | Replace blades, treat windshield | Every season |
At Burt Brothers, our technicians can complete this entire checklist in a single visit—helping you stay safe, save money, and drive confidently no matter what winter throws your way.
How Preventive Maintenance Saves You Money
Preventive maintenance isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns—it’s a smart investment in your vehicle’s long-term health. Here’s how it pays off:
1. Avoid Emergency Towing and Roadside Costs
A dead battery or blown tire in winter can mean waiting in freezing temperatures for a tow truck. Preventive maintenance keeps you from getting stranded and eliminates the stress of unexpected repairs.
2. Prevents Damage to Critical Systems
Neglected fluids, dirty filters, or worn parts can cause damage that spreads to more expensive components—like your engine, transmission, or suspension. A simple inspection can prevent thousands in future repairs.
3. Extends Vehicle Lifespan and Boosts Efficiency
When your vehicle’s systems are clean, lubricated, and running smoothly, you get better fuel efficiency and longer engine life. It’s the difference between a car that runs well for 100,000 miles and one that lasts 200,000.
4. Reduces Accident Risk
Good traction, clear visibility, and strong brakes are all part of safe driving. Preventive care keeps these systems performing their best—reducing the likelihood of fender benders or dangerous winter collisions.
FAQ: Your Winter Maintenance Questions Answered
Q: Why is winter maintenance so important?
Cold weather stresses your vehicle’s most important systems. Preventive maintenance ensures your car starts reliably, handles well, and keeps you safe through snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.
Q: What’s the most common winter breakdown?
Battery failure is the number one winter issue, followed by tire and fluid-related problems. Testing your battery and topping off your fluids before the first freeze can prevent both.
Q: Can I skip winter maintenance if my car is new?
Even new vehicles need seasonal checks. Tires, fluids, and wiper blades wear quickly, and factory fill levels may not be ideal for winter conditions. Early maintenance helps protect your investment.
Q: When should I schedule my winter check-up?
Ideally, bring your car in before the first big drop in temperature—usually late October through November in Utah. That way, you’ll be prepared long before snow hits the roads.
Conclusion: Stay Ahead of Winter Trouble with Preventive Care
Winter driving doesn’t have to mean white-knuckle commutes or unexpected repairs. With a little planning and help from the experts at Burt Brothers Tire & Service, you can keep your car safe, efficient, and ready for any road ahead.
From battery testing to winter tire upgrades and fluid checks, our team provides the personalized care Utah drivers trust year after year. Don’t wait until your car won’t start or your tires lose traction—schedule your winter maintenance check today and drive with confidence all season long.
