What to Do When the Outside of the Car Windshield Fogs Up?
3 Answers
The solution to fogging on the outside of the car windshield is to open both windows to allow air convection or turn on the cold air from the air conditioning. Here are the relevant details: 1. Open the windows: In cases where the fogging is not severe, you can appropriately open both windows to allow air convection, which eliminates the temperature difference on both sides of the windshield, making it difficult for fog to form naturally. 2. Turn on the air conditioning: Turning on the cold air from the air conditioning can quickly eliminate the fog. The principle of defogging agents is simple; spraying a layer on the windshield forms an effective protective film that prevents the condensation of water mist. However, the effectiveness of this protective film is short-lived, requiring frequent reapplication to maintain the effect.
I've been driving for many years, and fogging on the outside of the windshield is a common occurrence, especially on humid or rainy days when a thin layer of mist forms on the windows, obstructing visibility. The solution is simple: immediately after starting the car, turn on the wipers to wipe off most of the moisture; then activate the defogging function of the air conditioner, choosing between cold or warm air depending on the weather—warm air works better in cold weather, while cold air suffices in hot weather. Direct the air vents toward the front windshield and increase the fan speed to quickly dry any remaining moisture. Preventive measures are also crucial: I make it a habit to regularly clean the windshield with glass cleaner to remove grease, making it harder for fog to form; alternatively, applying anti-fog spray, which is readily available at supermarkets and lasts for several months, is effective. Safety comes first—if the fog is too thick to see the road clearly, don’t force yourself to drive; simply pull over and wait a few minutes for it to clear. When washing the car, remind the attendant to focus on cleaning the front windshield to minimize fogging risks.
When I first started learning to drive, I encountered fogging on the exterior glass, which made me a bit nervous. The method was to quickly swipe the wipers a few times, and the fog would disappear almost instantly—super effective. Then, I adjusted the air conditioning, pressed the defrost button to direct airflow to the front windshield, and combined it with the wipers for a more thorough cleanup. In cold weather, it's best to warm up the engine first before turning on the heater; in hot weather, using cold air is more efficient. It's also a good idea to check the condition of the wiper blades—replace them if they're worn to avoid sticking. For prevention, avoid parking the car in high-humidity areas for too long, such as near rivers or at the entrance of underground garages. If there's a significant temperature difference during your commute, spray some anti-fog solution on the glass beforehand. This trick is hassle-free and safe, keeping your vision clear and making driving much more relaxed.
