Winter break means freedom for your teen driver: road trips, college visits, holiday shopping, and visits to friends or family. But with that freedom comes responsibility, especially when snow, ice, and cold weather hit Utah’s roads.
Winter driving poses unique challenges for even the most experienced drivers, and those challenges are amplified for teens who may not have logged many hours behind the wheel in harsh conditions. That’s why a little proactive prep can make all the difference. Making sure your teen’s car is winter-ready gives you peace of mind and helps them stay safe on the road.
Why Teen Drivers Need Extra Winter Prep
Teen drivers are still building confidence and experience, and that makes winter driving even more challenging. Between snow-packed roads, black ice, and freezing temperatures, it’s easy for a minor oversight to lead to big problems.
Here’s why winter prep matters even more for young drivers:
- Less experience in cold or low-visibility conditions: Teens may not be familiar with handling skids, reduced traction, or the need for longer stopping distances.
- Higher risk of overlooked maintenance: A forgotten oil change or worn tire tread might not seem like a big deal — until it’s 10°F and snowing.
- Parents want peace of mind: Knowing your teen’s car has been professionally inspected and serviced means one less thing to worry about during the busy holiday season.
That’s where Burt Brothers comes in. Our certified technicians know exactly what to check (and what to fix) to keep your teen driver safe on the road this winter.
Essential Winter Services Burt Brothers Recommends
Getting your teen’s car ready for winter doesn’t have to be complicated — but it does need to be thorough. Here are the key services Burt Brothers recommends before your teen hits the road for winter break:
1. Battery Inspection & Replacement
Cold weather is tough on batteries — and a weak one can leave your teen stranded in a parking lot or on the side of the road. Burt Brothers offers free battery testing to check voltage and cold-cranking performance. If the battery is weak, our technicians can install a dependable replacement designed to perform in Utah’s cold winters.
Pro Tip: Most car batteries last about three to five years. If yours is older, it’s time for a test.
2. Tire Safety & Winter Traction
Tires are your car’s only contact with the road — and when that road is icy, every bit of traction counts.
At Burt Brothers, we:
- Check tread depth to ensure safe stopping distances.
- Inspect tire pressure, which can drop as temperatures fall.
- Rotate or replace tires if necessary.
- Recommend winter tires for added grip and control in snowy or slushy conditions.
If your teen’s car isn’t equipped with winter tires yet, this upgrade is one of the smartest safety investments you can make.
3. Brake System Check
Brakes are critical year-round, but especially during winter when stopping distances are longer. Our technicians inspect pads, rotors, and brake fluid levels to ensure your teen’s car can stop safely — even in slippery conditions.
Pro Tip: If you hear squeaking, grinding, or feel vibration when braking, it’s time for a checkup.
4. Fluid Top-Off & Freeze Protection
Cold temperatures can thicken fluids or even cause freezing if they’re not rated for winter conditions. Burt Brothers ensures all fluids are topped off and winter-ready, including:
- Antifreeze/Coolant: Prevents engine freezing and overheating.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: Keeps visibility clear, even with salt and slush spray.
- Motor Oil: We can switch to a winter-grade oil if needed for better cold-start performance.
Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and keeps your teen’s vehicle running smoothly all season long.
5. Wiper Blade & Light Inspection
Clear visibility is essential for safe driving — especially for teens still learning to anticipate hazards. Burt Brothers checks and replaces wiper blades, inspects headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to make sure everything is bright and functional.
Pro Tip: Replace wiper blades at least once a year — more often if they streak, skip, or squeak.
Winter Safety Add-Ons for Teen Drivers
Beyond the basics, a few thoughtful extras can make a big difference for your teen’s safety and comfort during winter travel.
Winter must-haves include:
- Emergency roadside kit (jumper cables, flashlight, blanket, gloves, water, and first-aid supplies)
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Portable phone charger or power bank
- Tire pressure gauge and small shovel
Burt Brothers can recommend and even install practical accessories to help your teen stay prepared for anything.
Unchecked vs. Winter-Ready Vehicle
| Vehicle Condition | Risk Level for Teen Driver | Burt Brothers Solution |
| Weak Battery | High risk of no-start | Battery test and replacement |
| Worn Tires | Poor traction, longer stops | Tire inspection or winter upgrade |
| Low Fluids | Engine freeze, poor visibility | Full fluid top-off and check |
| Dim Lights | Reduced visibility | Bulb replacement and alignment |
A quick visit to Burt Brothers can turn a potential breakdown into a worry-free winter drive.
Give Your Teen Driver a Safe Start to Winter
Winter driving doesn’t have to be stressful — especially when your teen’s car has been checked and serviced by professionals who care.
At Burt Brothers Tire & Service, we understand what it means to trust someone else with your child’s safety on the road. That’s why we treat every vehicle like it’s our own — with expert care, attention to detail, and the promise that “We do it better.”
Schedule your winter vehicle inspection today at your nearest Burt Brothers location, and send your teen off for winter break with confidence — knowing their car is safe, reliable, and ready for the road ahead.
FAQ: Teen Driver Winter Prep
Should I switch my teen’s car to winter tires?
Yes. Winter tires are made with special rubber compounds and tread patterns that improve traction and control in cold, snowy, or icy conditions.
How do I know if my teen’s battery is winter-ready?
Burt Brothers offers free battery testing to check voltage and cold-cranking amps. If it’s weak, we’ll recommend a reliable replacement that won’t leave your teen stranded.
What’s the best time to prep a car for winter break?
Schedule your winter inspection at least one to two weeks before travel. That gives time to take care of any repairs before the rush.
Can Burt Brothers handle all these services at once?
Absolutely. From tires to brakes to fluids, our certified technicians can handle a full winter inspection in one convenient visit.
