Icy windows
De-icers, ice scrapers etc.: These tools are a must for drivers in winter
If your car’s windows are frozen, a window de-icer can be useful
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Do you get annoyed every morning in the winter about your car’s frozen windows or door locks? With the right tools, ice and snow don’t stand a chance. This article explains which mistakes should be avoided and when there is a risk of a fine.
There are many ways to de-ice car windows – using hot water is not one of them. The large temperature difference can cause fine cracks to form in the glass. Cold or lukewarm water, on the other hand, would immediately freeze again if the outside temperature was below zero. Below you will find out which other methods the ADAC advises against, which aids are more suitable and how to use them correctly.
How to de-ice car windows and door locks
1. Windshield de-icer spray
So-called are particularly practical to use Window de-icer. These are sprayed onto the icy surfaces – and as if by magic the ice comes off the glass. This is made possible by a mixture of alcohol and various chemical substances. “But how long you have a good view depends on the formula of the windshield de-icer. Above all, you have to make sure that the products do not leave streaks or smudges on the windshield,” points out the ADAC.
2. Door lock de-icer
If the car key can no longer be turned in the lock (or cannot be inserted in the first place), the so-called comes Door lock de-icer for use: It contains, among other things, alcohol to melt the ice, as well as lithium grease: This makes the lubricant and care product equally suitable for door locks and hinges as well as the mechanics of the car’s side mirrors. According to the manufacturer, the application should even provide permanent corrosion protection.
Important: Do not store the door lock de-icer in the car. If the locks freeze, you won’t be able to unlock the doors.
3. Ice scraper
If you have icy glass panes with a ice scraper If you want to work on it, the ADAC recommends a model made of plastic. Ideally, it has one edge with saw teeth and one smooth side. Depending on how thick the ice layer is, it can be easier to remove. “It would also be ideal integrated broom, because the car is often covered in snow. The car must not only be free of ice, but also of snow: other road users must not be hindered by snow that comes off the vehicle. The license plate must also be legible and free of ice and snow,” explains the automobile club.
Tip for use: Do not put too much pressure on the car windows.
4. Antifreeze
Last but not least, there is also the so-called Antifreeze. This is a paint, rubber and plastic-compatible windshield cleaner for the winter that is intended to prevent the windshield washer system and nozzles from freezing. It is delivered ready for use and, according to the manufacturer, can withstand temperatures of up to minus 20 degrees Celsius. Since it is used like normal windshield washer, it also ensures a clear view and removes the typical winter dirt on the windshield of the car with every use.
Preventing icy car windows: this is how it works
To prevent a thick layer of ice from forming on the windshield, you can take preventive measures: Bring one in the evening tarpaulinwith aluminum coating on the windshield, this is simply placed over the glass and clamped in the driver or passenger door. And the best thing about it is: The film not only protects your car from freezing, but also helps against UV rays, dust and leaves. However, it is important that you measure your windshield before purchasing it and choose a model that is large enough to cover the entire front glass. Alternatively, you can also use cardboard as ice protection.
Tips from ADAC: This is forbidden in winter
According to the ADAC, you are not allowed to move your vehicle if the car windows have not been de-iced at all or have only been minimally de-iced. Otherwise, you could face a fine of ten euros because you are endangering yourself and others due to a lack of visibility in traffic. It is also forbidden to let an internal combustion engine warm up while stationary in order to make it easier to scrape ice – this could result in a fine of up to 80 euros (plus administrative costs) according to Section 30 Paragraph 1 of the StVO.
And one more tip at the end: The ADAC advises against using credit or check cards, ceramic hob scrapers or CD cases to de-ice car windows. “Anyone who uses such objects risks a scratched window.”
Source: ADAC
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