All posts tagged windshields

Keeping your winter windshields safe and easy to see through is quick with a few low-cost preparations. Whether your windshield is perfect or has a few cracks, you can follow these steps to be safer this winter.

Go Blue or Don’t Go

If you do nothing else, get the right washer fluid added to your car. While the color can vary, the key is the alcohol content because it lowers the freezing temperature of the washer fluid. Look for washer fluid with a freezing temperature of -20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, the lower the better. Anything higher could freeze in the reservoir or even on your windshield.

Dealing with Cracks

If you have cracks or chips in your windshield, it is highly recommended to get those fixed before the first frost or freeze of the season. Water and moisture can get in these imperfections and expand causing even more damage. You have two options: repair or replacement. You can visit most auto repair shops and get windshield repairs done very quickly. Those facilities will usually file and approve the claim with your insurance company with little or no cost to you. You can also call a glass company like Valley Glass Utility about replacement. It is best to check your coverage before calling so you don’t file a claim that isn’t covered.

Keep It Clean

A dirty windshield can lead to poor visibility, more scratches, and damaged wiper blades. Before winter, run your car through the car wash or hose off the loose dirt from the windshield. Then use an automotive window cleaner on the inside and outside of the windshield, and other windows, to remove oil and grime that has built up all year. On the outside of the windshield, you can apply a product to reduce friction. You can also apply an anti-fog product on the inside of the windshield. This is helpful if the defrost function in your vehicle isn’t working well.

Ice Removal

If you park your vehicle outside during the winter, ice will accumulate. Removing the ice can be done several ways. First, try to park your car where the windshield faces east or south. The morning sunshine can warm the ice just enough to make it easier to remove. Next, be sure to get a plastic ice scraper. They are less likely to scratch the windshield. Keep two since they can break easily. You can also warm the car up and blast the windshield with the defroster. However, do not pour hot water on your car. It will likely crack glass and plastic. Even if it doesn’t, the water might refreeze and make things worse. Finally, before trying to run your wipers, be sure to free them from the ice to prevent blade or wiper motor damage.