Big D De-Icer: Found in a Car Last Taxed in 1979… But How Old Is It?

Every now and then, it’s not the car that steals the show — it’s what’s left inside it.

This Big D de-icer aerosol was found tucked away in a car that was last taxed in 1979. That alone gives you a clue, but the real talking point is right there on the tin.

A Proper Period Piece

Big D was a familiar name back in the day, known for everything from air fresheners to automotive products like this. The design here is pure period — bold lettering, simple claims, and that wonderfully optimistic promise to clear “snow, frost, ice instantly”.

But the real gem? The car printed on the can.

That Jaguar Tells a Story

Front and centre is what looks to be a Jaguar XJ — likely a Series 1 or early Series 2. That would place the design somewhere in the late 1960s through to the mid-1970s.

So while we can’t say exactly when this particular can was made, it’s a safe bet it dates from around that era — and the fact it was still sitting in a car unused since 1979 lines up nicely.

Still Working After All These Years

Here’s the unbelievable part…

It still squirted.

Make of that what you will, but for something that’s potentially 50+ years old, that’s seriously impressive. They clearly made things to last back then — even if the branding might raise a smile today.

Who Remembers Big D?

This is where it gets interesting.

Was Big D something you had in your garage or glovebox back in the day? Do you remember using it on cold winter mornings, or is this the first time you’ve seen one?

And more importantly… how old do you reckon it actually is?

We’re Always Interested in Finds Like This

It’s items like this that make garage clearances so interesting — not just the cars, but the bits of history hidden away with them.

If you’ve got a garage, shed or collection you’re thinking of clearing, we’d love to hear from you. Cars, bikes, parts, tools or memorabilia — it all tells a story, and we’re always on the lookout.