Drivers share ‘magic’ button that defrosts windscreen in seconds

Just as Brits were beginning to enjoy the first signs of spring, temperatures have taken a nosedive, with frost and snow replacing anticipated blooms and sunshine. Across the UK, many woke up to a blanket of snow this morning, a trend set to continue throughout the week.

As the days grow colder and nights even chillier, many will find their car windscreens frozen solid, potentially causing delays to the morning commute. However, rather than braving the cold with a scraper, a driving expert has revealed a simple trick to clear ice from the comfort of your warming car.

Driving Test Success, the UK’s leading provider of Theory Test revision materials, shared a video on their TikTok account @drivingtestsuccess demonstrating how activating your car windscreen fan can effectively melt away the frost. The company advised: “Frozen windscreen? Put the temperature on high.”

“Put the front windscreen fan on max. The ice will start to melt from the heat. Wipe away excess water and return the fan to normal.”

While some experienced drivers may find this tip obvious, several social media users expressed surprise at this handy hack, reports the Mirror. 

One commenter exclaimed: “Wow, magic! The ice is gone.”

In a revelation that’s caused quite the stir among motorists, a driving instructor has dispelled myths about car door opening post a recent regulation amendment. .

One user lauded the guidance, enthusing: “I’ve learned so much thanks to your app!”, while a critic on TikTok lambasted the laziness, blasting: “Wastes more fuel. Just get [out] and scrape it off you lazy so and so.”

This isn’t the first time such advice has come to light; another nugget from Clear View Driving urges the use of demisters over wipers to address icy windows, advising: “Now don’t use your windscreen wipers or washers as that won’t help. Turn on your front and rear demister.”

“The rear demister also heats up your side mirrors in most new cars. But if the mirrors are not clear, make sure to clear them before you start driving.”

“Then, once it’s done you can use your wipers.”

The AA, too, steps in during those biting winter months, recommending that drivers should “turn on the warm air blower” and “heated mirrors” for a swift and secure de-icing operation. They guide: “Start the engine and turn on the warm air blower on the windscreen. Switch on the rear windscreen heater and heated mirrors, if you have them. Turn on the air-con. It’s not just for summer – it’ll remove moisture from the air to stop the car from misting up.”

“Don’t use your hands to wipe misted-up windows – you’ll leave greasy smears and a diamond ring could scratch the glass. Use a lint-free absorbent cloth if necessary.”

“Stay with your car the whole time while the engine’s running.”