How to De-Ice Your Car Safely This Winter
How to de-ice your car safely this winter
Just because hot water worked for someone on social media doesn’t make it a good idea. De-icing your car incorrectly can damage your windscreen, compromise safety and even lead to fines.
Here’s the Vixa guide to de-icing your car safely and effectively, helping you get on the road with full visibility during cold UK mornings.
Do’s for de-icing your car windscreen
Just because hot water worked for someone on social media doesn't make it a good idea. Here's the Vixa guide to de-icing your vehicle:
Do..
Start your engine, activate the defrost setting, direct air blowers towards your windscreen on maximum heat, and switch on the rear windscreen heater.
Pull down the sun visors, as they will help keep the warm air directed at the screen.
Clear snow from the roof and bonnet. If you don’t, it will move when you accelerate and brake, risking obscuring your windscreen or flying into the path of pedestrians or another car.
Use a good quality ice scraper to remove as much external ice as possible. It’s not wise to use another item that isn’t designed for this purpose, as it might cause permanent damage to the glass.
Invest in a decent car de-icer spray (cheaper options could damage your seals or paintwork). They can help dissolve ice quickly without it re-freezing.
Park in a garage or under cover, if possible. If not, consider whether a car or windscreen cover might save you time in the mornings. You’ll likely still have mist to clear, but you’ll have less scraping and spraying to do.
Don’ts when de-icing your car
Avoid these common mistakes that can damage your vehicle or break the law.
Don't..
Don’t start driving until you have full visibility through your windscreen, windows and wing mirrors. It’s unsafe and illegal to move your vehicle without a clear view of your surroundings.
Don’t throw hot water or place hot towels on your windscreen or windows. Such an extreme and rapid change in temperature will likely weaken, crack or even shatter the glass.
Don’t walk away from your vehicle with the engine running at any time. It’s illegal to leave a car idling on a public road, risking a fine. If the car gets stolen, you may also find you’re not insured.
Don’t use your wiper blades if the screen is frozen or covered in thick snow. Ice can damage the wipers, and heavy snow can damage the motor and mechanical components.
Winter car safety advice from Vixa
Knowing how to de-ice your car properly is an essential part of winter car safety. Taking a few extra minutes can help prevent costly repairs, fines, or accidents caused by reduced visibility.