ALT-1 Tips to De Ice Car Windows
Ice buildup on car windows and rear view mirrors is not only a navigational hazard, in many areas, if you are caught driving with reduced visibility, you may be cited. So, in spite of the fact that you might be running late, cleaning off an area just barely large enough to see through is not an option. There is just no getting around the fact, that you may have to take the time to clean off all of those windows before taking to the road.Every vehicle should come equipped with an ice scraper/brush. Ideally, it should have a handle long enough to reach across the windshield and the back window. It you don’t have one with you, however, in a pinch, you can use any stiff plastic that you might have in your vehicle. If the ice is thick, even getting the top layer off can speed up the time it takes for your defroster to do the rest. If you are caught in an ice storm and the defroster cannot keep up with the accumulating ice, use your windshield washer option periodically. The anti freezing agents in the washer fluids will help to clear enough area to see where you are going.Start the car, let it run for a few minutes and turn the front and rear defrosters to high. Turning on the windshield wipers will often speed up the ice removal, but only turn these on once you have determined that they are not frozen in place. Trying to start the wipers when they are frozen will not only damage the blades themselves, it may very well damage the system that operates them. Never, try to clear electric side windows by running them up and down. Chances are that the same ice that is covering the window has frozen the windows in place, and trying to budge them can result in an expensive repair bill.Always keep a can of de-icer in the car during the winter months. This is one of the most immediate fixes. Spraying the de-icer on the windows will remove the ice in a matter of minutes without damaging the paint or glass. Many recommend using some form of rain release agent on the windows at all times to prevent ice from forming in the first place.If you have no de-icer or scraper, do not give into the temptation of using hot water or brute force on the glass. Both of these will cause cracks and breaks in extremely cold weather.Whatever method you choose, for your safety, and the safety of everyone around you, make sure that all windows are clear and your visibility is the best it can be.
