British drivers risk expensive windscreen damage and safety hazards by using boiling water and metal scrapers to clear ice from their cars, the RAC has warned as winter temperatures grip the UK.
The motoring organisation highlighted how pouring boiling water onto frozen windscreens can cause microscopic cracks to expand rapidly, potentially shattering the glass entirely. This creates an immediate safety risk and costly replacement bills that insurance may not cover, depending on policy terms.
Lukewarm water or purpose-designed de-icing spray offers a safer alternative, the RAC advised.
Equally damaging is using metal objects like spatulas or credit cards to scrape ice. These tools easily scratch windscreen glass, impairing visibility in sunlight and weakening the structure. When used on paintwork around wing mirrors or door handles, they cause chips that can lead to long-term rust damage.
Drivers should use plastic ice scrapers with gentle pressure instead, the RAC recommended.
The organisation stressed that clearing all windows, mirrors and lights completely before driving isn't just about safety - it's the law. Motorists caught driving with inadequately de-iced windscreens face fines and penalty points.
Drivers should allow time for their car's heating and ventilation system to warm up properly, using demister functions to assist the de-icing process.
Poor visibility from improperly cleared windscreens contributes to accidents, particularly during morning commutes and adverse weather. The warning comes as a timely reminder for drivers to protect both their vehicles and other road users during winter months.
For areas prone to heavy frost, the RAC suggests covering windscreens overnight with sheets or dedicated frost covers to reduce ice build-up and speed up morning de-icing.