Drivers warned to avoid 'detrimental' car button that reduces visibility in cold weather

Many areas of the country have today battled wintry conditions, with widespread snow and ice. The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning across the Midlands and the North of England.

The snow, ice and high winds are likely to cause significant disruption as many motorists take to the road. They are now being urged to make sure they are properly equipped for the conditions.

During cold weather it's normal for motorists to wake up to frosted windscreens, or end up with foggy windows after they start to heat up from the inside.

It's vital to make sure to clear these properly before travelling in what is already considered dangerous conditions. Frosted or foggy windscreens can make driving difficult in terms of visibility, and you could risk being slapped with a fine.

There's a button you should avoid (stock image) (Getty Images/Onoky)

Thanks to a handy 'magic' button, you can do this quickly from the comfort of your own vehicle. You simply need to activate your car windscreen fan which will heat up the glass from the inside and melt the frost away.

However, while looking for the right button there's one toggle you should avoid entirely.

Car experts have warned drivers to not turn on the air recirculation button, which is instead normally used in summer to help the vehicle become cooler, faster.

However, some drivers are getting confused between that and another button which brings in air from outside, and heats it up.

A spokesperson from Eden Tyres has warned that during the winter, when it's cold outside, the air circulation button should be turned off. They added: "The air-recirculation button is best to use alongside your AC during warm weather. During cooler weather, it doesn't have many benefits and can even be detrimental.

"Some drivers think it makes sense to not have 'all that cold air coming in' if they are using heaters in winter. However, it's best to have your air recirculation turned off."

This is because when it's cold outside, recirculating air can trap moisture inside, causing your windshield and windows to fog.

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