Five ways to make your car ready for winter

Five ways to make your car ready for winter

The cold months of winter can play havoc with your car. Here are five checks to do now so you don’t get caught in a storm

By Ernie Richardson

We all know the hazards of winter driving: ice and rain, sleet and snow, fog and floods. And as much as they can make it hard to get from A to B, most of us don’t have the choice of avoiding journeys and staying tucked up warm at home.

...if conditions are really treacherous thanks to snow, ice, fog or flooding, only travel if you absolutely have to.  

So it is wise to make sure your car is ready for the rigours of winter motoring. Follow our five steps and you’ll be able to confront bad weather conditions head-on, secure in the knowledge that your car is set up for the challenge of the coolest time of year.

Remember, though: if conditions are really treacherous thanks to snow, ice, fog or flooding, only travel if you absolutely have to. Pregnant wife or girlfriend at 8cm dilated? Fine, get going. A pint of milk and a Mars Bar from the Esso? Probably worth waiting until the weather clears.

1. Top up screenwash, and keep a spare bottle in the boot

We’ve all been there. Careering along the motorway on a chilly winter’s morning. Salt spray squirting around us, leaving white streaks across our windscreen and making it even harder to see the road ahead.

Then we squeeze the windscreen washers and nothing happens. Zilch. Nada. Not even a trickle. Which means we’re condemned to ever-declining visibility until we can find a petrol station or services at which to pay over the odds for some screen wash.

To avoid such a fate, keep your washer reservoir topped up every few days, and keep a bottle of pre-mixed wash in your boot. You can buy a five-litre bottle of screen wash online for less than a few quid. That way, if and when you do run out, you’ll just need to find a safe place to pull over and fill up.

2. Have a winter battery check

Few winter breakdowns are more irritating than a flat battery. It can leave you stranded for hours while you await the breakdown truck. Then within a few minutes of arriving, they jump-start the engine and you’re back on your way, feeling silly for such a trivial failure.

But it needn’t be like this. Take your car to a garage or motor factor for a winter battery check. They’ll plug it in and check charging levels, cranking and charge retention.

If it seems weak, you can buy a replacement, thereby obviating the risk of a flat battery and ensuring you won’t spend a chilly winter’s evening stranded in a car park.

3. Check your tyres

It is well worth checking your tyre tread depth before the winter weather sets in. The legal minimum depth is 1.6mm, but experts like the RAC suggest 3mm is a healthy lower limit. Stopping distances increase dramatically below this depth, especially on wet or icy roads.

You can check your tyres yourself, using a ruler or depth gauge (prices from around £2 online). The depth needs to be consistent across the middle three-quarters of the tyre. If there’s uneven wear, it could point to a tracking fault, impairing handling and putting you at greater risk of an accident.

If in doubt, head to your local tyre specialist and get them to check for you. Better to be safe than sorry, especially at this time of year.

Enlist the help of a friend or colleague to walk around your car with you behind the steering wheel, turning lights on and off...  

4. Check light bulbs

Car light bulbs have a twofold function: they help you see and be seen. And given that most commuters travel to and from work in the dark during winter, it’s important to make sure yours are all working.

Enlist the help of a friend or colleague to walk around your car with you behind the steering wheel, turning lights on and off so they can check everything’s illuminating as it should. Check sidelights, headlights on dipped and full beam, taillights, brake lights, fog lights (front and rear), indicators and reversing lights.

If any bulbs are blown, replace them immediately. Remember – you can get a fixed penalty notice with a fine of up to £200 for a faulty brake light.

More important than that, though, you’ll be putting yourself and other motorists at risk. Which makes a few moments of inconvenience while you check and replace any faulty bulbs well worth the effort.

5. Check fluid levels

Oil, brake fluid, coolant. All of these can have a detrimental impact on a car’s smooth running if they’re not topped up. So grab your car’s handbook and check your levels.

It’s a good opportunity to work out what’s going on beneath your motor’s bonnet, making it more likely you can remedy any faults in future. It will also ensure optimum efficiency and reliability once the winter weather sets in.

If you’re really not confident checking your car over, take it to a garage. Many perform free winter safety checks while you wait, meaning you can rely on expert advice about your car’s suitability for winter driving.

 

If you enjoyed this article, you may like: 
Weather myths: fact or fiction?
Surprising jobs celebs did before they were famous

 

Published: 25 November 2024
© Copyright Just Recruitment Group Ltd 2024

 

Jobs currently available

New job
Production Operative
Sector: Warehouse
Salary: £12.21 per hour
Location: Braintree
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary
Job ref: JT-BRA-PO-0725
About the role

Just Temps is working with a respected manufacturing business based near Braintree to help them look for a reliable and motivated individual to join their specialist production team.

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity role!

Hours: Day shift, Monday to Friday, 38 hours per week.

Why this role?

This is a hands-on role and a great opportunity to be part of a highly skilled and collaborative team that works in a modern, clean, and controlled environment. You’ll be working with precision-manufactured products, contributing to a business that’s been going strong for decades, and if all goes well, this could become a long-term position.

What’s in it for you?

  • Eligible for a generous annual bonus (typically around 10%). Discretionary and not guaranteed
  • Full training provided
  • Clean and safe working conditions
  • Daytime working hours – keep your evenings free

What will you be doing?

You’ll be based in a specialised area. Typical tasks will include:

  • Polishing and finishing high-quality components
  • Preparing moulds and applying coatings
  • Carefully mixing and pouring resins using vacuum systems
  • Assembling parts and preparing them for final inspection
  • Maintaining a clean and tidy workspace, wearing full PPE

Who we’re looking for:
We need someone who is:

  • Practical, hands-on, and detail-oriented
  • Comfortable working with materials like resins and glues
  • Flexible and willing to learn new tasks within the department
  • Committed to health & safety and quality standards
  • Own transport is essential due to the location

Previous manufacturing or cleanroom experience is a bonus, but not essential – just bring a strong work ethic and willingness to learn.

Free parking is available on-site.

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
Procurement Specialist
Sector: Purchasing and Merchandising
Salary: Competitive
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913712
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing manufacturing business, based on the outskirts of Sudbury, to recruit a Procurement Specialist to join their growing team.

The key purpose of this role is to be responsible for the procurement of raw materials, packaging, and indirect goods to support production requirements and business operations. This role ensures cost-effective purchasing while maintaining high standards of quality and supplier performance. In addition to purchasing responsibilities, the role owns the material planning function, ensuring optimal stock levels, accurate forecasting, and uninterrupted material supply to meet production schedules.

Key duties include:

  • Source, negotiate and purchase raw materials, packaging and consumables to meet business needs.
  • Maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers and develop new supplier partnerships.
  • Conduct regular supplier reviews on performance, pricing, lead times and compliance with company standards.
  • Issue and manage purchase orders (POs) to ensure timely deliveries and cost control.
  • Support cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or compliance.
  • Take full ownership of the material planning process across all SKUs.
  • Develop, manage and maintain the material requirements plan (MRP) based on weekly production schedules and forecasts.
  • Maintain accurate inventory levels of raw materials and packaging to avoid shortages or excess stock.
  • Collaborate closely with production, warehousing and quality teams to ensure alignment on stock availability and usage.
  • Monitor inventory trends and flag risks related to potential shortages or delays.
  • Create and maintain rolling forecasts for materials based on sales, production plans and market trends.
  • Lead the weekly forecasting process, collaborating with production planning and commercial teams.
  • Analyse historical data to improve forecast accuracy and responsiveness to demand changes.
  • Maintain accurate records in the ERP system.

This is an excellent opportunity to grow and develop with the team and business.

This role offers a positive work environment with free parking available on-site.

Due to the company’s location, you must have access to your own transport.

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
Warehouse Operative (with FLT licence)
Sector: Warehouse
Salary: £12.49 - £13.07 per hour
Location: Snetterton
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary
Job ref: JT-SNE-WO-0725
About the role

Just Temps is supporting a company in Snetterton, looking for a reliable and flexible Warehouse Operative with FLT licence to join their team.

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity role!

Hours:

  • Contracted: 8.00am to 4.30pm
  • Typical: 8.00am to 5.00pm (Monday to Thursday)
  • Early finish at 2.30pm on Fridays

This is a blended role — while FLT licences are essential, this is not a full-time FLT position. You’ll also be expected to handball stock, work on warehouse management systems, and assist across various departments.

Pay rate depends on your FLT licence:

  • PPT Operator — £12.49
  • Counterbalance / HLOP — £12.77
  • Bendi / VNA Driver — £13.07

What we’re looking for:

  • Valid FLT licence (Counterbalance, PPT, Bendi, VNA, or HLOP)
  • Willing to lift, shift, and get stuck in
  • Basic computer skills and attention to detail
  • A strong work ethic and positive attitude
  • Keen to secure a long-term, permanent opportunity

About the role:
You'll be supporting various warehouse operations. This includes:

  • Operating FLT as required
  • Manual handling and handballing
  • Data entry and stock checks
  • General warehouse duties

Free parking is available on-site.

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
Trainee Engineer
Sector: Engineering & Technical
Location: Ipswich
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-IPS-TE-0725
About the role

Just Temps is seeking a Trainee Engineer for a well-established company based on the outskirts of Ipswich, Suffolk.

This is a dynamic role that combines technical expertise with customer service. You will have a passion for working with machinery and solving problems on the spot.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Service and maintenance: Supply, fit, service, and maintain compressors, pipework, receivers, dryers, and more!
  • Troubleshooting and repair: Diagnose faults, carry out temporary repairs when necessary, and ensure machines are running efficiently and effectively on-site.
  • Customer-focused: Engage with customers directly to discuss the best options for each job, offering expert advice and solutions. Once trained, you will become the face of the company, so a friendly and professional approach is essential.
  • Safety and PPE: Wear provided overalls and PPE (personal protective equipment) while working on various sites, some of which may be dusty or dirty.
  • Team collaboration: Work as part of a small but skilled team, sharing knowledge and ensuring jobs are completed to the highest standard.

What this role offers:

  • Full training provided: No experience? No problem! You will be trained to become an expert in servicing, including pipework, receivers and more.
  • Competitive salary: Dependent on experience.
  • 24/7 breakdown callouts: Once trained, you’ll rotate on callouts to assist customers in their time of need.
  • Company vehicle: After training, you will be provided with your own van for work travel. Until then, you'll travel with colleagues.
  • Work schedule: Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm (with flexibility depending on job requirements). No bank holidays or nights away!
  • Generous holiday: Enjoy 25 days of annual leave once permanent.
  • Company mobile: After completing your training, you'll be provided with a company mobile phone.
  • Uniform and PPE: All provided once training is complete.

Essential requirements include:

  • A full UK driving licence is required for the role, as you will need to travel to various sites.
  • The ability to work at heights is essential for some tasks.
  • Manual handling with the ability to lift and handle heavy items.
  • Thorough knowledge of machinery, with the ability to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain compressors.
  • Excellent communication skills - completing job sheets, communicating with customers, and signing off tasks on-site.

What’s the role like?

This is a practical, hands-on role where every day is different. From performing repairs on-site to assisting customers in getting their machines back up and running, no two days will be the same. If you enjoy solving problems, working with machinery, and meeting customers, this role is perfect for you.

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
Customer Service Executive
Sector: Customer Service
Salary: Competitive
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913711
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a great company in Sudbury that offers a stable team and a positive working environment. They are seeking a Customer Services Executive to join their long-standing team.

As the Customer Service Executive, you will deal directly with customers by phone or email, providing stock updates, pricing and delivery information.

You will provide excellent customer service and promote this throughout the organisation.

The goal is to keep the department running in an efficient and profitable manner, to increase customer satisfaction, loyalty and retention and to meet their expectations.

To be considered for this role, you must have excellent Excel skills, including VLOOKUP's and Pivot Tables.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Improving customer service experience, creating engaged customers and facilitating organic growth
  • Taking ownership of customers' issues and following problems through to resolution
  • Setting a clear mission and deploying strategies focused towards that mission
  • Developing service procedures, policies and standards
  • Keeping accurate records and documenting customer service actions and discussions
  • Analysing statistics and compiling accurate reports
  • Reviewing order input, both for accuracy and to understand the customer's business and requirements
  • Managing office holidays and ensuring cover is in place

Key role requirements include:

  • Proven working experience as a Customer Service Executive or Key Account Handler
  • Experience in providing customer service support
  • Excellent knowledge of management methods and techniques
  • Ability to think strategically and to lead
  • Strong client-facing and communication skills
  • Advanced troubleshooting and multi-tasking skills
  • Customer service orientation
  • Strong Excel skills are required

Working hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing business with the potential for development and career progression within the role.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Field Service Technician – Twickenham / Kingston Upon Thames
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Salary: Discussed on application
Location: Twickenham, Kingston Upon Thames
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913709
About the role

Due to continued growth, a world-leading provider of vehicle washing technology is recruiting a Field Service Technician to service a customer base in the Twickenham / Kingston Upon Thames area.

The role involves servicing and installing car and commercial valet equipment. You will be involved in all aspects of planned maintenance, breakdown repairs, equipment servicing, and general repairs. Responsibilities also include maintaining van stock levels and completing job sheets.

Role requirements include:

  • Having an Electrical or Mechanical engineering qualification
  • Be willing to travel and stay out overnight as and when required
  • Be willing to take on additional training and relevant courses, including evening courses that the company may pay for
  • Working on your own initiative or part of a team, and have problem-solving skills
  • Have a valid, clean UK driving licence
  • Good people skills, presentable and able to liaise directly with customers
  • Being punctual and able to keep accurate and timely documentation
  • IT literate with Microsoft Office and Outlook experience
  • You will be required to work within Health & Safety guidelines as set by the company

Benefits on offer include:

  • Company vehicle
  • Mobile phone
  • Pension scheme
  • Death in service benefit
  • Uniform and tools provided#

Hours: Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week plus 1 in 3 weekend cover.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more