Holiday Travel Car Checklist for Phoenix Drivers: 4 Things to Check Before You Hit the Road

The holidays are a time for family, food, and making memories — often miles away from home. Whether you’re driving across Arizona or heading out of state, holiday travel puts extra stress on your vehicle. A little preparation now can save you time, money, and frustration later.

Here are four critical things to check before you hit the road this holiday season.

If you’re planning holiday travel from Phoenix, AZ, your vehicle needs extra attention before hitting the road. From long highway drives to cooler desert nights, holiday travel puts more stress on your car than everyday driving. Holiday driving isn’t like everyday commuting. Longer trips, heavier loads, stop-and-go traffic, and changing temperatures all push your vehicle harder than usual. Add in cooler nights and shorter daylight hours, and small issues can quickly turn into big problems — often at the worst possible time.

That’s why a pre-trip check is one of the smartest holiday to-dos.

1. Battery Stress During Winter Travel

Most people associate dead batteries with freezing winter weather, but batteries actually fail more often during temperature changes — something we experience even here in Arizona. Battery testing is one of the most common services we perform at our Phoenix auto repair shop during the holidays…

Holiday travel adds extra strain:

• Frequent short trips (errands, shopping, parties)

• Longer highway drives

• Cooler overnight temperatures

If your battery is 3 years old or more, slow to start, or has never been tested, it’s worth checking before you leave. A weak battery can strand you in a parking lot or at a rest stop far from home.

2. Tire Safety for Long-Distance Driving

Your tires are the only thing connecting your vehicle to the road — and they matter even more during long trips.

Before holiday travel, your tires should be checked for:

• Proper tread depth

• Correct tire pressure (which drops as temperatures cool)

• Uneven wear or visible damage

Worn or underinflated tires can increase stopping distance, reduce fuel efficiency, and raise the risk of blowouts — especially on highways and mountain roads.

3. Lights: Visibility + Safety

Shorter days mean more night driving during the holidays. Properly working lights help you see the road clearly and make sure other drivers can see you.

Be sure to check:

• Headlights (low and high beams)

• Brake lights

• Turn signals

• Reverse lights

A burned-out bulb might seem minor, but it can lead to tickets, accidents, or dangerous driving conditions — all easily preventable with a quick inspection.

Why a Pre-Trip Inspection Saves Money and Stress

A pre-trip inspection isn’t just about safety — it’s about peace of mind. Catching small issues early helps prevent:

• Expensive roadside repairs

• Missed family time

• Holiday plans derailed by breakdowns

It’s a simple step that can save you hundreds of dollars and a whole lot of stress.

Ready to Travel with Confidence?

👉  Schedule a holiday travel inspection with a trusted Phoenix mechanic Let the team at H. Smith Automotive make sure your vehicle is ready to get you where you’re going — safely and reliably.480-331-9295

From our family to yours, we wish you a happy, safe holiday season on the road. 🚗🎄