After snow blanketed much of the country again today, thousands of drivers will have faced a pesky morning task: de-icing their cars. But no matter how regularly you complete the job, you might be putting your vehicle at risk without realising it.
A motoring expert has warned there's a de-icing method that could be doing more harm than good, so the common trick is worth avoiding. Meanwhile, there are several highly touted tips that simply don't work.
As Sam Sheehan, a motoring expert at the online car dealership, cinch, explained: "It's easy to be tempted to use some of the winter driving hacks that are popular during the cold snap, but many of these either don't work, or worse, can damage your car."
Thankfully, the pro shared advice to help drivers. "Pouring boiling water on a frosted windscreen may cause cracks in the glass, while using a CD or credit card to clear your windscreen could scratch the surface or damage the seals around your windows," he warned. "Instead, make sure all windows are fully cleared of ice and snow, using a scraper or de-icer so you can see everything around you."
The expert recommends that you clear your roof too. "Take the time to clear snow off the roof of your car as this can slip on to your windscreen, blocking your visibility, or could cause a hazard for other road users," he explained. "Our advice is to get into the habit of regularly checking your car, as prevention is better than the cure. This includes checking your tyres, managing your engine oil levels, keeping your coolant topped up - adding antifreeze in the autumn to avoid the water freezing during a cold snap."
Drivers will also benefit from remembering a few further checks. "If you drive an electric car, ensure your vehicle is regularly charged and top up where possible. For all car types, check your windscreen for cracks or chips and make sure all of your car's lights are all working as they should be," Sam said.
"As well as keeping your windows clear of dirt and obstructions, give your headlights a once over with a damp cloth and ensure your registration plates are clean too, as the roads are much dirtier in the winter."
And last but not least, he shared one final pointer to keep in mind: "Petrol and diesel cars see lower fuel efficiency in the winter, and it's the same for EVs as colder weather will see your battery operating less efficiently."
The expert added: "To minimise the effect of the cold weather on your EV, preheat your vehicle while it's still charging and use eco-driving mode wherever possible."
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