In winter when it snows, the front windshield inside the car becomes unclear. Does it need to be cleaned?
3 Answers
In winter when it snows, the front windshield inside the car becomes unclear because the low external temperature creates a temperature difference on the windshield, leading to fogging. Below are the specific reasons for the unclear windshield and solutions to address it: Specific reasons for the unclear windshield: When the outside temperature is low and the inside temperature is high, the temperature of the car windows also decreases. The moisture inside the car condenses into fog when it meets the cold windows. Additionally, on snowy days, the air is more humid. Opening and closing the car doors, as well as bringing in water from shoes, increases the moisture inside the car, making it more prone to fogging. Solutions for the unclear windshield: If the car has automatic air conditioning, simply turn on the auto mode button. For manual air conditioning, turn on the external circulation and adjust the air vent position knob to direct airflow toward the windshield.
I always check if the windshield is covered by snow or fog before getting off in winter. If visibility is poor, I clean it immediately to ensure a clear view and avoid accidents. Once on a heavy snow day, I found the windshield completely white before driving out. I carefully wiped the inner moisture with a soft cloth, then turned on the AC in cold mode for quick dehumidification, which worked effectively. For external snow, I used a plastic scraper to avoid scratches. I recommend carrying a defogging spray or de-icing tool and making it a habit to clean before driving—safety first. Neglecting this issue may lead to blind spots and danger, especially on highways where stopping to deal with it too late can be hazardous.
Last winter during heavy snow, I encountered fogged-up windows that severely obstructed visibility and nearly caused an incident. Later, I learned to clear snow off the car before getting in, wipe the interior dry with a towel, start the engine, and turn on the external air circulation to reduce humidity and quickly restore visibility. Experience taught me not to pour hot water or blast the heater, as this worsens condensation and creates more trouble. Keeping a moisture-absorbing silica gel pack on the dashboard to reduce cabin humidity is an effective preventive measure. Sticking to this habit has made winter driving safer and more time-efficient.