Warning for drivers over common mistake when de-frosting windscreens that can cause glass to crack
AS the temperature drops, motorists have to factor extra time into their morning routine to de-ice the car. But don’t be tempted to take a shortcut that could end up costing you hundreds of pounds. Popping the kettle on and pouring boiling water over your car might seem like an easy way to clear the […]
AS the temperature drops, motorists have to factor extra time into their morning routine to de-ice the car.
But don’t be tempted to take a shortcut that could end up costing you hundreds of pounds.
Popping the kettle on and pouring boiling water over your car might seem like an easy way to clear the windscreen in the morning, but it could prove a costly mistake.
Glass is sensitive to sudden temperature changes, and pouring boiling water on the windscreen could cause it to crack or shatter.
This could cost hundreds of pounds to fix or replace.
Colder mornings mean icy cars, and while it can be a pain to de-ice your wing mirrors, windows and windscreens, not doing so could land you a hefty fine.
Driving with your vision obscured could get you a fine of up to £100.
Boiling the kettle might seem the easiest solution, especially if you’re making your morning cuppa anyway, but it’s one of the riskiest.
When hot water hits the glass, it rapidly expands, then contracts as it cool.
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This flexing can make the glass crack – and this will be even worse if you already have any chips or cracks in the windscreen.
The RAC said: “The thermal shock of going from sub-zero temperatures to nearly 100C in a matter of seconds can crack your windows.”
Investing in a car cover is one way to protect your vehicle from the elements, and the RAC recommends keeping a bottle of de-icer in your car.
But there are plenty of easy hacks to help you keep your windscreen clear – and you don’t have to splash out on any fancy tech or gadgets.
Something as simple as laying a towel over your windscreen can do the job just as well.
You’ll need to secure it under the windscreen wipers and tuck the top corners in the car doors, but when you peel the towel away in the morning, the windscreen should be clear.
For your wing mirrors, taping plastic bags in place can do the job – just remember to take them off in the morning.
Another home remedy is using a solution that’s three parts vinegar and one part water and spritzing this on an icy car.
And, if you’re an animal lover, leaving a sock full of cat litter in the car can help soak up any moisture to avoid things fogging up as you drive off.
A handy ice-scraper can always do the job, but don’t be tempted to use your credit or debit card in place of the real deal.
The RAC added: “Don’t move off until your windscreen, rear screen, side windows and door mirrors are free of ice, snow or any condensation.
“Not only is it highly dangerous – it could mean you miss a car coming as you pull out of a side road – it is also illegal to drive with poor visibility.”
Is your car winter ready?
Taking the time to make sure your car is winter ready could save you a lot of time, hassle and money in the long-run.
But more than a third of drivers say they aren’t prepared for winter driving.
Tony Rich of the AA said: “It’s always best to prepare your car before the frost arrives.
“You can help prevent your doors sticking to the face of the door seals by applying a light coating of Vaseline or furniture polish to the seals.
“To help prevent the locks freezing up, spray some light oil like WD40 into the lock barrel.”
Get a winter safety check done to examine the condition of your tyres, battery and lightbulbs.
Kwik Fit and Halfords sometimes offer these for free so check with your local branch.
Make sure your glovebox is stuffed with essentials such as an ice-scraper and hi-vis vest in case you get caught short.
And try not to leave your petrol gauge on the red. Having your tank at least half full makes it less likely the petrol inside will freeze.
The RAC said: “We recommend allowing about 10 minutes to clear your windscreen thoroughly using a scraper and de-icer if necessary.
“Don’t forget about the other windows, mirrors and even lights as well – they’re just as vital for safe visibility and are often ignored.”
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