Can You Use Windshield Wipers to Scrape Off Snow?
2 Answers
You can use windshield wipers to scrape off snow if it hasn't frozen yet. However, if the snow has melted and refrozen, you should not use the wipers as they may freeze to the glass and damage the motor. In winter, it's advisable to switch to a professional snow brush beforehand. Windshield wipers, also known as wipers, water wipers, or windscreen wipers, are devices used to wipe away raindrops and dust from the vehicle's windshield, improving visibility and enhancing driving safety. After snowfall, temperatures drop significantly. If your car is parked in an open space, avoid using the wipers to remove ice or snow in the morning. Melted snow on the windshield can refreeze, bonding the wipers to the glass. If you activate the wipers carelessly, it may tear the rubber surface of the wipers, rendering them ineffective, or worse, damage the wiper motor due to restricted movement.
I often drive in winter, and the other day I tried using the wipers to scrape off snow, which turned out to be a big mistake. There was thick snow on the windshield, and I was too lazy to use a scraper, so I just turned on the wipers, thinking they could handle it. But within seconds, the wipers started squeaking, scraping like a saw, leaving a few scratches on the glass. The snow also stuck to the wiper blades, freezing into ice clumps, and when I tried to start them again, the motor nearly got damaged. The mechanic said doing this would age the wiper rubber several times faster and could even damage the motor system, increasing the risk of accidents. In reality, snow is much heavier than rain, and wipers are designed for water droplets, not snow. Later, I learned to first use a soft brush or snow scraper to clear the snow, then spray some de-icer with the wipers for better and safer results. It’s also important to maintain the wipers once every winter to prevent freezing and cracking issues. In short, never cut corners to avoid the hassle and cost of repairs. I learned the hard way and now always keep a small scraper in the trunk.
