Discovering your car’s windscreen is icy on a frosty morning can be a real nuisance, particularly when you’re already in a rush to get somewhere.
Not only do you have to ensure it’s completely clear before you drive to avoid a potential fine, but the added time pressure when you’re running late can add to the stress.
A tip from TikToker @eden_tyres_and_servicing, who are automotive specialists in the West Midlands, has gone viral for its effectiveness. They shared a clip with the advice: “Here is the best way to defrost your windscreen according to a former NASA engineer” – and it’s not what you might expect.
READ MORE: Driving expert shares how to ‘correct’ car if you skid on icy roads as temperatures drop
The first step they suggest is to “turn on the car heater immediately at full blast”. Next, they advise you to “turn on the car’s air conditioning, which will help soak up the remainder of any moisture inside,” which aids in drying the car out so the windows are not fogged up.
The third step is to “turn off the car air circulation button” because leaving it on means “humidity is trapped inside”. The fourth step might come as a surprise: “open all of the car windows only ever so slightly.” This method, they explain, allows the “exchange of humidity in the car for the dry air outside,” leading to a defrosted windscreen.
In the comments, one user recommended an additional tip: “Also, put your sun visors down—it traps more of the hot air against the screen.” However, another commenter noted that “this doesn’t work” for their car, indicating that results may vary between different cars.
Some offered alternative methods, as one person advised: “Slight warm water in a bottle and boom 5 secs later. Being doing it for 27 years and no smashed window,” although this is not recommended as it increases the likelihood of smashing.
Another individual commented: “A sealed plastic bag with water slightly above cold—not even tepid—rubs all over windows. Works every time.”
In a video, a TikToker expressed their frustration: “My car doesn’t have these fancy buttons. I have to turn my car on and wait for the heating to heat up, which takes about 20-25 mins,”.
An additional recommendation came from someone who said: “Ice scraper, proper Job, £1.99, takes 5 mins.”
“Great tips,” another responded, expressing eagerness to put them into action during the UK’s next frosty spell.
Do you have any de-icing tips for other road users? Let us know in the comments…