How To De-Ice A Car
In the UK, it’s the law that you must be able to see out of your windows. Your licence plate must also be readable. As the cold weather begins to set in, you may want to read up on how to remove ice from your car before you find yourself in a tricky situation. You can also take steps to prevent ice from building up on your windows and windscreen that can save you precious time. So, to make sure you remain safe in the winter, read our guide below on how to de-ice a car.
If you know that a big freeze is on the horizon like the dreaded “beast from the east” that we had a few years ago, you can take steps to protect your car from snow and ice. If you don’t have access to shelter for your car such as a garage, then you can use some simple tricks to stop your windscreen and car windows from freezing up.
Need a little extra help budging the freeze? Continue reading…
Things you will need
Tarp cover (optional)
Rubbing alcohol or windshield fluid
Towel (optional)
Rubbing alcohol or saltwater solution
Squeegee or ice scraper
Step 1
Prevention is better than the cure
Firstly, we recommend investing in a tarp to cover your car when it is stationary. Just ensure that you secure it so it doesn’t blow off (simple bungee cords should do the trick!). This method is good at preventing most ice and snow build-up, but you may still find some ice on your windows and windshield.
To prevent your windshield wipers from freezing you can put some rubbing alcohol or windshield fluid into the windshield washer reservoir.
If only a light snowfall is expected then you can use a simple trick to prevent your windshield from icing up. Simply soak a towel in a solution of salt and water and then place across your windshield overnight. However, don’t do this if we’re expecting a heavy snowfall as this can make the towel heavy and it can then be difficult to remove.
Step 2
How to de-ice your windows
First things first, if you find yourself with a car covered in ice, never apply hot water onto your windshield as the sudden temperature change can cause your windshield to crack. Instead, you can use one of our methods below.
If you have time, and don’t have a de-icer to hand, you can let your car warm up first and this will melt the ice. Some cars have a defrost setting which you can use. Before you turn your car on, check to ensure that there is no ice blocking the tailpipe and remove any blockages to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Make sure you do not begin driving until all the ice has melted and you can fully see through your windshield and windows.
Step 3
Apply a de-icing solution
You can apply either a rubbing alcohol solution or a saltwater solution to your windscreen to melt the ice. Saltwater can prevent the ice from re-freezing whilst you are out and about. However, the saltwater can damage your car whereas a 2:1 rubbing alcohol solution will not damage the car and it has the same effect on ice, melting it and lowering the freezing point of water to prevent it from re-freezing.
If you would rather use a specialised spray, you can pick one up in your local shop and apply as per the instructions on the product.
Step 4
Use a squeegee or scraper to de-ice
As the ice starts to melt there may be some residue that needs removing from your windows and windshield so that you have full visibility. You can use a squeegee to wipe away this residue easily and quickly.
For heavier ice and if you are in a rush, ice scrapers are a great way to speed up the process as you can use it to chip away the ice and break up larger sections.
Step 5
Check your number plate whilst you're at it
We don’t recommend using WD-40 on your windows or windshields but you can apply WD-40 Multi-Use to your number plate to not only provide a protective layer to stop it from rusting but to also prevent ice from sticking to it. The unique WD-40 formula repels water and can be used as a rust prevention spray. So, to ensure that you are abiding by the UK law, ensure that your number plate is always readable by applying WD-40 to protect it from rust and ice.
De-iced and ready to roll!
Now that you know how to both prevent your car from freezing and how to defrost it if it does freeze up, you should be well equipped for the winter ahead! Always remember to make sure you remove any snow on the top of your car before beginning your journey as this can fall onto your windscreen as you are driving and block your view.
Pro Tip: Car door frames, weatherstripping, and locks can freeze in winter making it impossible for you to open your car. If you find you can’t get into your car, you can read our blog on how to stop locks freezing.
For more information on How To Winterize, read our blogs on How To Check The Tread On Your Tyres, How To Bleed A Radiator and How To Winterize Your Bicycle.
The uses shown and described for WD-40 Multi-Use Product were provided to WD-40 Company by the users themselves. These uses haven’t been tested by WD-40 Company and do not constitute a recommendation of suggestion for use by WD-40 Company. Common sense should be exercised whenever using WD-40 Company products. Always follow the instructions and take heed of any warnings printed on the packaging.
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