Simple habit can stop car windscreen freezing on the inside during cold weather

07 February 2024 , 21:00

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Both the inside and outside windscreen can freeze over in cold temperatures (Stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

The sun isn't coming out any time soon, as more wintry weather is set to savage parts of the UK.

As Brits brace for up to 10 inches of snowfall, it's more important than ever that drivers know how to stop their car windscreen freezing on the inside. Failing to clear your windscreen and therefore driving with limited visibility ahead of you is not only a breach of the law, resulting in fines of at least £50, but can also increase the risk of accidents.

But as chilly temperatures refuse to budge - a simple car habit could be the key in keeping the inside windscreen clear and frost-free.

According to the RAC, the inside of our windscreens freezes up due to humidity in the car mixing with a cold surface - caused by low temperatures outside. "When warm, moist air comes into contact with the glass, condensation forms and then freezes," the breakdown company states.

To stop this from happening, experts recommend ensuring your car is well-ventilated, especially if your vehicle has a sunroof. A simple habit of keeping your windows open whenever safe and possible to do so should stop the screen from freezing over.

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During the colder months, it's common to wake up and realise the outside of your windscreen has also frozen over. However, experts have recently warned against popular hacks to defrost your vehicle quickly.

Motorpoint's resident car expert Tim Rodie urges drivers to avoid using the sandwich bag trick, which involves filling a bag with hot water and running it across the car to melt away any built-up ice. The pro says not only does this risk 'serious burns' if the bag breaks - but can also crack the windscreen due to rapid change in temperature.

“It's also important to remember that if your car hasn't warmed up, the water on your windscreen can refreeze – obstructing your view," he added. "Not to mention, causing your windscreen wipers to stick."

Rodie also warns drivers to never 'frost jack' - which is where you wait inside for the car to defrost with the engine running. Not only does this increase the risk of your vehicle being stolen, but is also against the Highway Code.

Liam Gilliver