Urgent driver warning over popular tricks to defrost your windscreen – and how they can cost you HUNDREDS
DRIVERS have been issued an urgent warning over a popular trick used to defrost windscreens.
The UK has been hit with freezing cold temperatures this week and it’s leaving cars frozen over.
And in order to combat the harsh conditions, drivers are using some dangerous remedies to speed up the defrosting process of their vehicles.
This includes using hot or boiling water to melt the ice quicker – but it could end up costing you hundreds of pounds.
Ed Colley, Head of Marketing at Autoglass, has strongly warned against using this technique.
He said: “With temperatures dropping across the UK, lots of drivers will be frustrated to find they are waking up to ice across their car windscreen this week.
“In a rush to clear the frost as quickly as possible some drivers may be tempted to pour boiling water over the glass.
“However, this tactic should be avoided as the sudden change in temperature can cause the glass to expand and result in small chips expanding into much more damaging cracks.”
There are a number of other hacks that car owners often use to defrost their cars quicker, yet some are just as unsafe.
“Using a credit card to clear away any unwanted frost also runs the risk of scratching the windscreen and creating more headaches for drivers keen to get on with their day,” said Mr Colley.
“Turning on the car engine and leaving it may seem like the safe option, but it is hardly the most environmentally friendly approach and leaving your car on and unattended also increases the risk of car theft.”
In order to help solve these issues, Mr Colley has suggested drivers invest in one smart tool to save inflicting further damage on your car.
“To ensure a stress-free winter morning we would recommend having a proper windscreen scraper in your car which you can use to clear the frost quickly and safely.
“For those who are really prepared, applying a rain repellent to your windscreen before a wintery snap can make de-icing much easier and quicker.”
A car insurance expert has also advised motorists against this de-icing tip that could cancel their claim.
In a struggle to keep the view of your car clear and your seat warm ready for the journey, a simple and common trick can make your car insurance invalid.
However, a motors whizz has discovered a genius £5 find to prevent frost for good.
The social media user took to TikTok to share the money-saving hack to get rid of the dreaded ice.