How to Defrost a Car in Winter?
3 Answers
Methods for defrosting a car in winter: Switch to the defogging mode, indicated by an icon on the control panel, turn on the internal circulation, and open the windows for ventilation to allow air exchange between the inside and outside of the car, which can alleviate fogging on the windows. However, this method is not applicable in all situations, such as during rainy weather. A common approach to dealing with fogged windshields on rainy days is to turn on the air conditioning and direct it to blow onto the front windshield. The cold air quickly disperses the fog, providing a fast and direct effect. This works because the cold air forms a "cold air film" on the glass surface, preventing carbon dioxide from condensing on the glass and thus achieving a defogging effect.
Dealing with frost on the windshield before driving in winter is always a hassle. I usually use a handheld scraper to slowly remove the frost, being careful not to rush and scratch the glass. Sometimes, I spray a mixture of alcohol and water, which works well for melting the frost and is cost-effective. After starting the car, I immediately turn on the heater and set it to defrost mode to blow air on the windows. This speeds up ice melting and prevents fogging. Don’t forget the rear window and mirrors—treat them the same way. For prevention, I’m quite diligent: I try to park in a garage or use a frost-proof car cover at night, and applying some anti-frost spray as a protective layer saves trouble. Once these habits are formed, mornings become more time-efficient and safer with clear driving visibility.
The key to safe driving is clear visibility, so I never skip the defrosting process. Frost can cause glare on the glass, making it difficult to see the road and increasing the risk of accidents. I usually start by using a plastic scraper to remove frost chunks, carefully clearing hard-to-reach corners. Then, I start the engine and turn on the heating and air conditioning to blow warm air at the windows to help melt the frost. I only drive after completely removing all frost, as leftover frost can refreeze during the day. For prevention: park in a sheltered spot to minimize frost buildup; use a simple car cover or apply antifreeze in advance for protection. It’s also recommended to regularly check the air conditioning system’s dehumidifying function to ensure quick defogging. In short, spending a few extra minutes on defrosting is crucial for safe driving.