Removing snow from your car in the winter can be a time-consuming task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can make it easier and faster. Here are some effective suggestions and tips for removing snow from your car in the morning:
1. Use the Right Tools
- Snow Brush: Invest in a good-quality snow brush with soft bristles. This will allow you to sweep snow off your car without scratching the paint.
- Ice Scraper: Get an ice scraper to remove ice from the windshield and windows. Some snow brushes come with an ice scraper on the other end.
- Shovel: Keep a small snow shovel in your car to clear snow around your tires and car doors.
2. Preparation Before the Snow
- Cover Your Windshield: Use a windshield cover or tarp to protect the glass from snow and ice buildup. You can secure it with your car’s windshield wipers.
- Raise Your Wipers: Lift your windshield wipers away from the glass to prevent them from getting stuck in snow or freezing to the windshield.
- Use a Car Cover: If snowstorms are expected, covering your entire car with a car cover will protect it from snow and ice.
3. Start with the Roof
- Clear the Roof First: Begin by brushing off the snow from the top of the car, then work your way down to the sides, windows, and hood. This prevents snow from falling onto the windshield and re-covering areas you've already cleared.
4. Use the Snow Brush Properly
- Sweep Gently: When using a snow brush, sweep gently to avoid scratching the car's paint. Start at the top and sweep snow off the sides.
- Use a Push Method: Instead of dragging the brush across the surface, push the snow off in a straight line, especially on delicate surfaces like the windshield.
5. Dealing with Ice on the Windshield
- Turn on the Car and Defroster: Start your car and turn on the defroster (front and rear) to warm up the windshield and windows. This helps loosen the ice while you work.
- Tip: Set the defroster to a low heat setting at first to prevent the windshield from cracking due to a sudden temperature change.
- Use an Ice Scraper: Once the ice has softened a bit, use an ice scraper to remove it. Use short, firm strokes to break up the ice.
- De-icing Spray: You can use a de-icing spray to help melt the ice faster. Commercial sprays are available, or you can make a DIY solution using a mixture of 2/3 rubbing alcohol and 1/3 water in a spray bottle.
6. Avoid Using Hot Water
- Never pour hot water on your windshield or windows to melt the snow or ice. The sudden temperature change can cause the glass to crack.
7. Free Your Tires and Doors
Clear Snow Around the Tires: Shovel snow away from the wheels and undercarriage, especially near the tires. This prevents the car from getting stuck when you try to drive.
Use Ice Melt or Sand: If the tires are slipping on ice, you can sprinkle salt, sand, or kitty litter around the tires to improve traction.
Check Door Seals: Sometimes snow and ice can cause the doors to freeze shut. You can apply a thin layer of silicone spray or cooking spray on the door seals before the snowstorm to prevent the doors from freezing shut.
8. Removing Snow Without Scratching Paint
- Avoid Metal Tools: Never use a metal shovel, metal scraper, or any sharp object to remove snow from the car's surface. It can easily scratch the paint.
- Foam Broom: If you want a larger tool for clearing snow from the roof and hood, consider a foam snow broom, which is softer and covers a larger area than a regular snow brush.
9. Don't Forget Headlights, Mirrors, and License Plates
- Clear All Lights and Mirrors: Make sure to clear snow and ice from the headlights, taillights, side mirrors, and license plates to ensure visibility and avoid getting fined.
10. Prevent Re-Freezing
Windshield Washer Fluid: Ensure your car has enough winter-grade windshield washer fluid, which won’t freeze in low temperatures and will help keep your windshield clear while driving.
De-Icer for Locks: Keep a small can of lock de-icer handy in case the car's locks freeze. If you don’t have de-icer, you can warm up the car key with a lighter (carefully) and insert it into the lock.
11. Remote Start or Pre-Heat Your Car (If Available)
Use a Remote Starter: If your car has a remote start system, you can turn it on before heading out. This will warm the car and help melt some of the snow and ice from the windows, making it easier to clear.
Warm Up the Car: Even without a remote starter, start the car and let it run for a few minutes before clearing the snow. The heat from the engine and defroster will make snow removal faster and easier.
12. Regular Maintenance
Replace Wiper Blades: Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition. Worn-out wipers will struggle to clear snow and ice from the windshield.
Winter Wiper Blades: Consider using winter wiper blades, which are designed to handle snow and ice better than regular blades.
By following these steps, you can clear snow from your car quickly and safely without damaging the vehicle or struggling with frozen parts. Being well-prepared with the right tools and techniques will make those snowy winter mornings much more manageable!