
Press the defog button, turn on the air conditioning (A/C) switch, set the temperature to the lowest, and turn on the external circulation to remove fog. You can use either cold or warm air to defog car windows, but warm air works slower than cold air. The most effective method is using cold air, which blows dry cold air directly onto the glass, preventing water vapor from condensing on the glass and achieving the purpose of defogging. The method for defogging with warm air is the same as with cold air, but it's important to note that warm air should not be used for defogging on rainy days, as it can initially worsen the fog. Always use external circulation when defogging car windows. The reason for car window fogging: There is a certain temperature difference between the inside and outside of the car. If the temperatures inside and outside the car are different, the side with the lower temperature will have a surface water vapor saturation pressure lower than the surrounding environment's vapor pressure, causing water vapor to gather on the glass surface and form tiny water droplets, resulting in fog. Methods to defog car windows: Air Conditioning Cooling: Use the air conditioning's cooling and dehumidifying function to reduce air humidity and remove fog. In summer, especially when multiple people enter the car and the air conditioning is not turned on promptly, the high humidity of exhaled air can quickly cause the windshield to fog up. In this case, turn on the air conditioning to blow cold air onto the windshield, using the dehumidifying function to remove the fog quickly. If the humidity is too high and the air conditioning is not effective, slightly open the windows to rapidly reduce the humidity inside the cabin. Combining this with the air conditioning can speed up the process. Air Conditioning Heating: Use the method of reducing the temperature difference to remove fog. In winter, use warm air to blow hot air onto the glass, quickly raising the temperature of the front glass and reducing the temperature difference between the inner and outer surfaces of the window. This can prevent excessive fogging on the windshield. However, it should be noted that the rear and side windows heat up more slowly, so it takes longer to remove all the fog. Whether the air conditioning is automatic or manual, turning it on helps with dehumidification. Avoid setting the air conditioning temperature to the coldest position, as this can cause frost to form on the outer surface of the windshield over time. Applying Anti-Fog Spray for Prevention: Spray a small amount of defogging agent on the car windows and wipe it clean to remove dirt and stains. While polishing the glass, a thin transparent protective film forms on the surface, effectively preventing water vapor from condensing and forming fog. This is especially useful in cold winters. Alternatives to defogging agents include dish soap, soapy water, glycerin, alcohol, or saline solution. After applying, let it dry and then wipe off excess residue with chamois or a soft dry cloth. This can keep the windows fog-free for several days. Opening Windows for Airflow: If the fog inside the car is not too heavy, you can open the windows on both sides to create airflow between the inside and outside of the car, reducing the temperature difference and gradually eliminating the fog. The principle of this method is the same as using cold air from the air conditioning. However, the downside of opening windows is obvious: it cannot be used during rain, snow, on highways, or when the fog is heavy. Rear Window Heating: Most cars have a rear window electric heating function, though the button location may vary. The function is the same. Turn on the rear window heating switch, and the fog on the rear window will disappear in about a minute.

I've encountered sudden fogging while driving many times. The most straightforward solution is to turn on the air conditioning for defogging. Increase the fan speed, direct the vents toward the windshield, and choose cold air for quick results (though it's chilly in winter), or warm air which takes a bit longer but removes fog more thoroughly. The key is to press the front defogger button (the one with the fan-shaped symbol) and turn on the AC switch to let the air conditioner dehumidify – this will quickly eliminate water droplets on the glass. Remember to use the external air circulation to let fresh air in, otherwise the exhaled moisture inside the car will cause fog to reappear. For prevention, spraying anti-fog products or wiping the interior glass with soapy water can keep fog away for several days. Also, shaking your umbrella dry before entering the car and avoiding leaving wet clothes inside can help during rainy days.

I always keep a bottle of defogging spray in my car. After washing the car, I spray a layer on the glass and wipe it evenly with a soft cloth. Once dry, it forms a protective film that prevents moisture from fogging up the glass. If I forget to bring the spray, a temporary solution is to mix dish soap with water (about a 1:10 ratio) and wipe the glass with it. Winter is the most troublesome season. When fogging occurs, I first crack the windows slightly for ventilation, then turn on the warm air conditioning and direct it toward the glass. Although it takes about three to five minutes, this method helps the fog dissipate more effectively and lasts longer. On long drives, if the air conditioning seems weak, it might be necessary to check if the filter is clogged. Also, avoid placing hot drinks in the cup holders, as the rising steam can easily cause fogging.

Window fogging is primarily caused by temperature differences and humidity. The solution involves three steps: First, activate the air conditioning compressor—the AC light indicates dehumidification is on. Second, switch to external air circulation and increase the fan speed to blow air onto the windshield. Third, choose cold air for quick defogging or warm air for continuous anti-fogging. Remember to use wipers to clean the outside of the glass, as oil film on the inside can worsen fogging. Prevention is more important than treatment: Shake off snow or rain from your clothes before getting in, avoid drying wet towels inside the car, and warm up the engine in cold weather to allow the heater to function. For older cars, check the air conditioning refrigerant and potential air leaks in the ducts.

Last time I drove in the rain, the windows fogged up as soon as I started. Here's how I handled it: I immediately turned the AC temperature to the lowest setting, blasted the maximum airflow at the windshield, and pressed the AC and external circulation buttons. The fog usually clears in about 30 seconds. After that, I adjust the temperature back to a comfortable level and keep the vents directed at the glass. Regular maintenance is crucial—I use a nano sponge to clean the inside of the windows monthly, which helps prevent fogging. In winter, I keep a bag of bamboo charcoal in the car to absorb moisture and leave a small gap in the window for ventilation. On long trips, I avoid blowing hot air from the dashboard directly onto the windshield to prevent repeated fogging.


