The Right Way to De-Ice Your Car

Lots of drivers rush the job of deicing their windscreen which is when the glass becomes scratched or wipers tear. Mistakes like these can be costly to repair.

Avoid Making This Common Mistake

Most people spot the frozen windscreen and reach for the scraper, but the thawing process actually starts inside the car.

Switch the heater on and direct the airflow towards the glass helps loosen the frost before you touch the outside. Don't forget to also turn on the rear demisters and, if you have them, heated front windscreens.

Additionally, although it feels counterintuitive, using the air conditioning at the same time helps to dry the air in the cabin. This will reduce internal condensation and speeds up overall visibility.

Windscreen Wipers

Frozen wiper blades can be problematic as if they attempt to move whilst they're stuck to the glass, the rubber can rip, the motor can strain and the mechanism can burn out. To prevent this from happening, make sure your wipers are switched off before you start the engine.

If they're completely frozen down, apply de-icer around the base and let the car's heater gradually free them without force.

Snow, Lights and Mirrors

As you wait for the windscreen to warm up, you can take the time to clear any snow from the roof, bonnet and rear of the vehicle. Snow sliding onto the windscreen while driving can block your view instantly.

Lights and mirrors also need to be ice-free so you remain visible to others, especially on darker winter mornings.

Hot Water is the Worst Shortcut

Although tempting, pouring hot or even warm water onto frozen glass creates a sudden temperature shock. Windscreens don’t respond well to rapid expansion and contraction so even a tiny existing chip can quickly turn into a full crack. On sub-zero days the water may even refreeze immediately, making your job harder. Cracked glass not only means repair bills, it can also render the vehicle unsafe to drive.

Tools that Don't Cause Damage

A proper ice scraper and de-icer spray are inexpensive and they’re designed specifically to remove ice without damaging the glass. Metal tools, keys, credit cards or any improvised item can easily scratch the windscreen or bodywork.

Don't Drive Until You Can See Everything

Before setting off, make sure every window, mirror and light is completely clear. Driving with a tiny cleared patch is both dangerous and illegal. Reduced visibility is a major factor in winter collisions yet preventing it is easy.

Avoid Scraping Altogether

Stopping frost from forming is easier than removing it. Parking in a garage helps but if that’s not possible, use windscreen covers, mirror protectors or full vehicle covers. These can dramatically reduce the amount of scraping required on cold mornings. Just ensure they’re kept dry to prevent mould and moisture build-up.

Reduced morning preparation also means less idling, less battery strain and a lower chance of waking up to a flat battery which can be a common cause of winter breakdowns.

What to Do When Ice Forms on the Inside

Internal frost is usually a sign of excess moisture: wet clothing, snow-covered footwear, blocked ventilation or worn seals can all contribute. Improving airflow, removing damp items promptly and using silica gel packets inside the car can reduce humidity. Anti-fog treatments also help keep the glass clearer on cold starts.

Final Thoughts

With good preparation, the right tools and a bit of patience, de-icing your car becomes a quick, safe routine.