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As the winter chill creeps upon us, we will have to battle with the early morning work rush with darker mornings. It also means having to defrost your car that has encased in ice overnight.
While it may seem like a seasonal pain, it can have dire consequences for drivers! According to a 2011 study, “40% of winter accidents happen on icy, snowy, or rainy roads”.
To keep you and your car safe in the winter months, read on to discover the safest and quickest ways to de-ice your car without causing any damage.
Why It’s Important to De-Ice Properly
De-icing your vehicle is essential for both legal and safety reasons. The Highway Code states that driving with obstructed windows can result in a £100 fine and three penalty points on your licence.
Be aware that this rule refers to the whole windscreen.
One of the most common mistakes drivers make is ‘portholing’ – where only a small portion of the windscreen is cleared. While it may save you time, it also creates major blind spots that significantly increase your risk of an accident.
Worse yet, improper de-icing methods can damage your car. Pouring hot water on an icy windscreen, for example, can cause the glass to crack, while scraping too hard or using the wrong tools can damage your wipers and paintwork.
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What Items Are Required for De-Icing?
To make sure you’re fully prepared for those frosty mornings, ensure you have the right tools for the job! Here’s what you’ll need:
Winter Essentials:
- Ice scraper: A sturdy ice scraper is your answer to safely breaking thick ice without damaging your windscreen and windows.
- De-icing spray: Trade boiling water for a quick spray of de-icing liquid that will help melt ice without damaging your car’s glass or paint.
- Soft brush: This helps sweep away snow and loose ice without scratching your vehicle.
Optional but Time-Saving Tools:
- Windscreen cover: Prevents ice build-up overnight, saving time in the morning.
- Remote heating system: Available in newer cars, this allows you to warm up your car and defrost the windows before you even step outside.
Step-by-Step Guide to De-Icing Your Car Quickly
Start the Engine
Activate the warm air blower, rear window heater, and heated mirrors by turning on your vehicle’s engine. The warm air blower will help raise the interior temperature, which aids in melting any ice on the windows and enhancing your safety while driving.
It is also best to turn on your air conditioning. While it may seem counterintuitive to use air conditioning in cold weather, it actually dehumidifies the air inside your car. This helps prevent moisture buildup on your windows, which can lead to that pesky fogging.
Remember: Never leave your car unattended with the engine running. Doing so can attract thieves, as they often target vehicles that are warming up without supervision. These thefts are common and usually not covered by insurance.
Scrape the Ice
While the car is warming, get to work on your windscreen with an ice scraper. Ensure that you remove the ice completely to avoid leaving any obstructive patches. After tackling the windscreen, move on to the side windows and mirrors, repeating the process to ensure all glass surfaces are clear.
Patience and consistency is the key with scraping, as even small areas of ice can significantly impact your visibility while driving.
Use De-Icer Spray
If the scraping is taking longer than expected, squirt some de-icer spray to get the ice melting. Once sprayed, the ice begins to dissolve almost immediately, making it easier to clear any remaining residue with your scraper.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results and to avoid any potential damage to your vehicle’s glass or seals.
Clear Snow from the Car Body
Once the windows are clear, turn your attention to any snow that may have accumulated on the body of your car. Using a soft brush, gently sweep away snow from the roof, bonnet, and lights.
Snow left on the roof can slide down onto the windscreen while you’re driving, posing a serious hazard to visibility.
How To Proactively Preventing Frost
If you want to save yourself hassle in the morning, a bit of overnight preparation can keep your car protected from the worst of the frost. Here’s how:
- Park Smart: If possible, use your garage to park your car overnight. If a garage isn’t available, consider parking closer to your home to minimise frost build-up.
- Use a Windscreen Cover: Placing a cover or even cardboard over your windscreen overnight can prevent ice from forming and save you valuable time in the morning.
- Remote Heating Systems: If your car is equipped with remote heating capabilities, take advantage of them. You can preheat your vehicle without having to step outside, making those frosty mornings a little less daunting.
Conclusion
Equipped with the right tools and a step-by-step plan, you can tackle frost effectively and efficiently. Investing in essential items like an ice scraper and de-icing spray will allow you to hit the road safely. To save even more time, implementing proactive measures such as using a windscreen cover can keep your mornings stress-free.
