Your work van is your mobile office, your toolbox on wheels, and often your livelihood. When winter hits, a van that won't start or a frozen pipe in the back can cost you an entire day's work—and income.
The good news is that a bit of preparation before the cold sets in can save you from expensive breakdowns and frustrating mornings scraping ice off your windscreen while your coffee goes cold. Here's a practical checklist to keep your vehicle running smoothly all winter long.
1. Battery Health Check
Cold weather is brutal on batteries. The chemical reactions that power your battery slow down in low temperatures, meaning it has to work harder to start your engine. If your battery is more than three years old, get it tested before winter arrives.
- Check the terminals: Clean off any corrosion with a wire brush and apply petroleum jelly to prevent future buildup.
- Test the voltage: A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts. Anything below 12.4 volts suggests it's time for a replacement.
- Keep jump leads handy: Even with a healthy battery, having jump leads in your van is essential backup.
2. Antifreeze and Coolant Levels
Your engine's cooling system needs the right mix of antifreeze and water to prevent freezing. Most manufacturers recommend a 50/50 mix, but check your van's manual for specific guidance.
"I learned the hard way that tap water in your coolant can cause problems. The minerals can corrode your radiator over time. Always use distilled water when topping up."
3. Tyre Condition and Pressure
Cold air causes tyre pressure to drop—roughly 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Check your pressures weekly during winter and inspect the tread depth. In the UK, the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but for winter driving, 3mm is recommended for better grip.
Consider whether winter tyres or all-season tyres make sense for your area. If you're regularly driving to rural sites or hilly terrain, the investment could prevent you getting stuck—or worse.
4. Windscreen and Wipers
Visibility is critical, especially during those short winter days. Replace worn wiper blades before they start leaving streaks, and top up your screen wash with a winter-grade formula that won't freeze.
- Carry de-icer: Keep a can in your house, not just the van—you'll need it to get in first.
- Use a proper scraper: Avoid using credit cards or other objects that can scratch your windscreen.
- Check for chips: Small chips can spread rapidly in cold weather. Get them repaired before they become cracks.
5. Protect Your Tools and Materials
If you carry water-based materials, paints, or sealants, remember that these can freeze and become unusable. Either bring them inside overnight or invest in an insulated storage box for your van.
Metal tools can also be affected—condensation can cause rust, and cold metal is uncomfortable to handle first thing in the morning. A pair of work gloves that allow dexterity while keeping your hands warm is worth its weight in gold.
6. Emergency Kit Essentials
Finally, pack a winter emergency kit and keep it in your van at all times:
- Torch with spare batteries
- Warm blanket
- High-visibility vest
- Warning triangle
- First aid kit
- Snacks and bottled water
- Phone charger (12V or power bank)
Conclusion
A bit of preparation now means fewer headaches when the frost arrives. Take an afternoon to run through this checklist, and you'll have peace of mind knowing your van is ready for whatever winter throws at it. Your clients are counting on you to show up—don't let a preventable breakdown stop you.
