Everything you need to know about snow and ice removal
When you live in areas prone to bad weather, you face challenges that many other motorists might not even think about, such as how to get ice off your windshield or dig your automobile out of a snowdrift. Luckily, automakers are not quite so ignorant of the plight, which is why so many modern vehicles come equipped with a host of new features to help you deal with any problem you may face. And where the experts do not have anything to offer, there are always a few DIY hacks from some of the savvy drivers out there.
Many of the best ways to deal with cars frozen in ice rely on internal technologies, but this is impossible if you can't even get in because the car doors are frozen shut. A simple gadget solves this problem, though; you can most likely find some lock de-icer at a nearby supply or department store, and it is just as easy. If you find yourself unprepared, you can create your own de-icer solution by mixing some water with rubbing alcohol. Using it is a simple process of spraying the liquid into the keyhole and waiting for the ice to melt and pour out. Gently, but firmly, stick your key inside to check for any residual obstruction and repeat the process if you cannot get it in all the way. For more on this, read our post about frozen car doors, here.
Of the many problems you're likely to face with an ice-covered car, one of the easiest to solve is how to remove ice from the windshield. There are several ways to do so, both from outside and inside the vehicle.
Of course, ice and snow is a problem for more than just the windshield. It can surround, and even bury an entire vehicle, and what could be less fun than digging your Dodge Challenger or Chevrolet Camaro out of a snow bank? But that doesn't mean there are not a number of tips for how to remove ice from a car. Here is a quick breakdown of ways to fix the problem of a car encased in snow or ice so that you can get to driving.
Naturally, the best way to protect your car is to ensure it is safely parked in your garage. This is not always possible, though, so here are few steps you can take to protect it outside. Afterwards, just use the tools for cleaning snow off a car we have already provided.
Thanks to advancements in automotive gadgetry, there are various tools at your disposal to help heat up your car and make dealing with cold weather more comfortable, whether you drive a smart sedan or a tough SUV. These include:
While it may seem like an easy way to clean snow off a car, it is not advisable. This is especially true with regard to the windows, as the sudden heat difference may cause cracking of the glass.
There are a few viable recipes. One of the more reliable solutions is water mixed with rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, salt can be used, in which case proper road salt is preferable.
It is advised that you replace windshield wipers once every six months, though if you deal with ice and snow regularly, a slightly shorter timeframe may be better.
Heating up your car properly before setting out is important. In normal conditions, a minute or so is enough time, but in harsh winter conditions, a ten minute idling period is advised.
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