Seven top tips to keep your windscreen clear in winter
Consumer Editor
Setting off to work in the morning can be an arduous task in the winter. You often have to wait an age for the windscreen to defrost and clear, and even if you’ve scraped the ice from the outside, the inside seems to steam up the moment you get in.
That is why we've put together this guide to keeping your windscreen clear with the latest expert advice. Read on for the top seven winter driving tips for keeping a clear view of the road ahead during the winter months:
RAC Mobile Mechanics come to you
RAC Mobile Mechanics are rated EXCELLENT and 5 stars on Trustpilot.
Plan ahead
Plan ahead to save time in the mornings by putting a windscreen cover on the night before.
Leave plenty of time
We recommend allowing about 10 minutes to clear your windscreen thoroughly using a scraper and de-icer if necessary. Don’t forget about the other windows, mirrors and even lights as well, they’re just as vital for safe visibility and are often ignored, limiting your vision, especially at junctions.
You can buy everything you need to de-ice your windscreen in the RAC Shop. Do you need windscreen repair?
Keep a bottle of de-icer in your car
Squirt it on the outside of the screen if it’s frozen over in the morning, using a proper scraper (not a bank card or CD case) to wipe away any excess water or ice crystals.
Don't reach for the kettle
An important point here – DO NOT pour a kettle of boiling hot water over the windows in an attempt to melt any ice. The thermal shock (going from sub-zero temperatures to nearly 100 degrees Celsius in a matter of seconds) can crack your windows, leading to an expensive bill.
Use your heater, properly
To stop the inside from misting up - which is caused by hot, wet air - use the heater but start off cold, then slowly increase the temperature as the air dries out For more information on how to most effectively clear the inside of your windscreen read our how to demist your windscreen in double-quick time page.
If you use the vehicle’s heater /screen demister, don’t leave your car unattended while you wait for it to defrost as you run the risk of having your vehicle stolen.
High-quality batteries fitted at your home
Skip the garage hassle – RAC Mobile Mechanics come to you!
RAC Mobile Mechanics are rated EXCELLENT and 5 stars on Trustpilot.
Do not wipe
Don’t be tempted to wipe the inside of the screen with a cloth. Although it might give you short-term relief it will leave marks on your windscreen, which could make it harder to see out of in the long run. Persevere with the heater – it shouldn’t take long to demist.
Wait for it...
Finally, don’t move off until your windscreen, rear screen, side windows and door mirrors are free of ice, snow or any condensation. Not only is it highly dangerous – it could mean you miss that car coming as you pull out of a side road. It’s also illegal to drive with poor visibility as stated by the Highway Code.
Get a car service at home
RAC Mobile Mechanics can come to you, saving you the hassle of going to a garage.
Roadside cover from £5.29 a month*
• Cheaper than AA Price Promise^
• We get to most breakdowns in 60 mins or less
• Our patrols fix 4/5 breakdowns
*At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). ^T&Cs apply.
*At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). ^T&Cs apply.
You might also like
Driving without shoes - is it illegal?
There’s a great level of uncertainty surrounding whether or not it’s illegal to drive a vehicle barefoot in the UK. Learn more with RAC Drive today.
Video
How to reduce the chances of breaking down in cold weather
Avoid a cold weather breakdown and get your car ready for winter with the latest motoring advice and tips from the RAC. Is your car ready with rain and snow?
What to pack in your emergency breakdown kit
Many of our cars and other vehicles don't like the cold and wet weather. Take a few minutes to ensure you're fully prepared with a winter breakdown kit.
Video
Tyre tread depth, UK law and tyre safety checks
What is the minimum legal tyre tread depth in he UK? Full information with advice and a short video about how to check your car's tyres.
Is it illegal to drive with snow on your car?
Driving with snow on your car could land you with a big fine. Find out what the law has to say when it comes to driving with snow on your vehicle. Read more.
The 10 biggest winter driving myths revealed
Can you drive in wellies? Will winter tyres hike your insurance premium? Can you get a fine from a badly de-iced windscreen?
How to save money when driving in the winter
How to save money when driving in the winter. Follow RAC Drive's money saving tips and advice to cut the cost of your motoring in the cold UK weather.
Should I buy winter tyres?
We explain everything you need to know about winter tyres including the pros and cons, what is the law and whether you can save money in the long run.
Top car tips in the extreme cold – DIY fixes to try
In addition to winter breakdowns, RAC members report a range of different problems when the temperature drops. Here are some of the biggest hazards.
What to do if you get stuck behind a gritter
You can bet that local authorities will have been stockpiling road salt on the run up to the winter period - but don't get stuck behind one! Read more here.
Popular in Advice & Guides
1
Signs of a faulty alternator and replacement costs
2
Euro 1 to Euro 7 guide – find out your vehicle's emissions standard
3
Broken down without cover – here’s what you can do
4
What is AdBlue and why do you need it?
5
How long does an oil and filter change take?
6
What is Android Auto? Everything you need to know
7
How often should you change your car's engine oil?
8
What to do if you have a flat battery
9
How long does a car service take?
10