As snow blankets parts of the nation and temperatures plummet, millions of UK motorists are facing the familiar and frustrating morning ritual of scraping ice from their windscreens. However, a simple solution using a commonly overlooked feature in your car could save you precious minutes and numb fingers.
The 'Magic' Button You Already Have
Motoring experts are urging drivers to forget the scraper and instead use their car's built-in demisting system to tackle frost quickly and effectively. The key is to turn your front windscreen fan to its maximum setting with the temperature on high. This directs warm air onto the glass from inside the vehicle, melting the ice rapidly.
The tip was highlighted by Driving Test Success, the UK's leading theory test revision provider, in a recent TikTok video. They demonstrated that activating the windscreen fan heats the glass from within, causing the frost to melt away. The advice is straightforward: set the temperature to high, put the front fan on max, and once the ice melts, wipe away any excess water before returning the fan to a normal setting.
Expert Advice for Safe Winter Driving
This method is supported by other driving authorities. Clear View Driving has issued similar guidance, emphasising that drivers should use their demister before setting off and avoid using windscreen wipers on ice. They also noted that the rear demister in most modern cars also heats the side mirrors, a crucial feature for all-round visibility.
The AA has also weighed in during this cold snap, advising motorists to start their engine, turn on the warm air blower directed at the windscreen, and switch on rear heaters and heated mirrors. They recommend using the air conditioning as well, as it removes moisture from the air to prevent the interior from misting up. A critical safety reminder from the AA is to never use your hands to wipe windows, as this can leave greasy smears, and jewellery like diamond rings can scratch the glass.
Social Media Reaction and Fuel Debate
On social media, the hack has been met with a mix of surprise and gratitude. One commenter described it as "magic," while another thanked Driving Test Success for the valuable lesson. However, not everyone is convinced. Some sceptics argue that running the fan and heater to defrost the screen wastes fuel compared to manual scraping, with one TikTok user bluntly labelling the tip as a method for the "lazy."
Despite the debate, the consensus among safety organisations is clear: ensuring full visibility before you drive is paramount. With the UK facing continued icy conditions, taking a few extra minutes to properly clear your windscreen—whether by this heated method or with a scraper—is a non-negotiable step for safe winter travel.
