The holidays are one of the busiest travel seasons in Montana, with families hitting the road to visit loved ones, take scenic drives, or enjoy winter getaways. But before you pack the car and hit the highway, a pre-trip collision inspection can make a huge difference in safety and peace of mind. Even if your vehicle has no obvious damage, small issues from past fender-benders, scrapes, or minor collisions can become serious problems on a long journey.
A collision inspection isn’t just about looking at dents and scratches. Experienced technicians check the alignment, suspension, tires, and even hidden frame areas to ensure the vehicle handles properly under load. Over the course of a long trip, any misalignment can make steering feel off, increase tire wear, or affect braking performance. A small, unseen frame issue might have been tolerable around town, but it becomes noticeable on highways or mountain passes, especially in winter conditions.
Headlights and visibility systems are also part of the inspection. During holiday travel, you often encounter early sunsets, fog, and snow-covered roads. Ensuring headlights are clear and sensors are calibrated helps you see farther and react faster, reducing the likelihood of collisions. Even a small chip in a windshield or a hazed headlight can dramatically impact nighttime driving.
Brakes, tires, and suspension components receive extra attention. A tire with uneven wear, a brake that feels soft, or a suspension with hidden stress points can compromise control during sudden maneuvers or slippery road conditions. These are the things drivers often overlook, but they can be the difference between a smooth trip and an accident that turns a holiday into a nightmare.
Beyond the mechanical checks, a collision inspection also includes looking for loose panels, compromised bumpers, or hidden damage from minor impacts. These might not seem urgent, but vibrations, temperature changes, or heavy loads on a trip can worsen the damage and affect overall safety. It’s better to catch these issues before leaving town rather than dealing with a breakdown far from home.
The goal of a holiday travel inspection is simple: give drivers confidence that their vehicle can handle the road ahead. With proper checks and repairs, you reduce the risk of mechanical failure, improve handling and stopping power, and make sure all safety systems are functioning as intended. This means you can focus on the road, your family, and the joy of travel rather than worrying about your car.
OHS Body Shop has helped countless Montana drivers prepare for holiday journeys. From hidden collision damage to everyday wear and tear, a thorough inspection ensures your vehicle is in top condition. A little preparation now can prevent major headaches later, and that’s something every holiday traveler can appreciate.
