There are many ways to de-ice car windows – using hot water is not one of them. The large temperature difference can cause fine cracks to form in the glass. Cold or lukewarm water, on the other hand, would immediately freeze again if the outside temperature was below zero. Below you will find out which other methods the ADAC advises against, which aids are more suitable and how to use them correctly.
So-called window de-icers are particularly practical to use. These are sprayed onto the icy surfaces – and as if by magic the ice comes off the glass. This is made possible by a mixture of alcohol and various chemical substances. “But how long you have a good view depends on the formula of the windshield de-icer. Above all, you have to make sure that the products do not leave streaks or smudges on the windshield,” points out the ADAC.
If the car key can no longer be turned in the lock (or cannot be inserted in the first place), the so-called door lock de-icer is used: It contains, among other things, alcohol to melt the ice and lithium fat: This makes it suitable The lubricant and care product is equally suitable for door locks and hinges as well as the mechanics of the side mirrors on the car. According to the manufacturer, the application should even provide permanent corrosion protection.
Important: Do not store the door lock de-icer in the car. If the locks freeze, you won’t be able to unlock the doors.
If you want to work on icy glass panes with an ice scraper, the ADAC recommends a model made of plastic. Ideally, it has one edge with saw teeth and one smooth side. Depending on how thick the ice layer is, it can be easier to remove. “An integrated broom would also be ideal because the car is often covered in snow. The car not only has to be free of ice, but also of snow: because other road users must not be hindered by snow that comes off the vehicle. Also the license plate must be legible and free of ice and snow,” explains the automobile club.
Tip for use: Do not put too much pressure on the car windows.
Last but not least, there is also the so-called antifreeze. This is a paint, rubber and plastic-compatible windshield cleaner for the winter that is intended to prevent the windshield washer system and nozzles from freezing. It is delivered ready for use and, according to the manufacturer, can withstand temperatures of up to minus 20 degrees Celsius. Since it is used like normal windshield washer, it also ensures a clear view and removes the typical winter dirt on the windshield of the car with every use.
To prevent a thick layer of ice from forming on the windshield, you can take preventive measures: Attach a tarpaulin with an aluminum coating to the windshield in the evening. This is simply placed over the glass and clamped in the driver or passenger door. And the best thing about it is: The film not only protects your car from freezing, but also helps against UV rays, dust and leaves. However, it is important that you measure your windshield before purchasing it and choose a model that is large enough to cover the entire front glass. Alternatively, you can also use cardboard as ice protection.
According to the ADAC, you are not allowed to move your vehicle if the car windows have not been de-iced at all or have only been minimally de-iced. Otherwise, you could face a fine of ten euros because you are endangering yourself and others due to a lack of visibility in traffic. It is also forbidden to let an internal combustion engine warm up while stationary in order to make it easier to scrape ice – this could result in a fine of up to 80 euros (plus administrative costs) according to Section 30 Paragraph 1 of the StVO.
And one more tip at the end: The ADAC advises against using credit or check cards, ceramic hob scrapers or CD cases to de-ice car windows. “Anyone who uses such objects risks a scratched window.”
Source: ADAC
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