Unfreeze Car Window without Damaging It, or Avoid Windshield Frost Altogether!

How do you unfreeze car window quickly in winter when you’re hurrying to get to work on a frosty morning? It can be a frustrating experience if you don’t know how to do it the right way. Plus, you may end up damaging your car window and have to foot the bill later.

To save you from a lot of headaches, here is a simple guide on the best way to unfreeze windshield as well as some techniques to keep your windshield from freezing.

We will also discuss some common mistakes people usually make when dealing with car windscreen frost, and answer FAQs about this problem at the end.

Spend a few minutes here to avoid wasting hours in the cold trying to defrost your car window!

Got a damaged windshield? Auto Glass Solutions has your back with quick and affordable car window services in Austin, TX. Give us a call for a quote.

Best Way to Unfreeze Car Window

How to unfreeze car windows fast is something every car owner in cold seasons wishes to know. However, although there are some techniques to help you defrost windows more quickly, you also need to be patient to avoid potential damage or making the situation even worse.

As choosing the right method to defrost the windshield depends on what resources and tools are available to you, here we are going over 5 practical ways to unfreeze car window ASAP without causing any damage to your car.

1. Defrost Function: Highly Recommended but Can’t Help All the Time

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 98% of cars in the United States are equipped with a kind of defrost function. Defrosters let warm air circulate and defrost all or any of the windshield, side windows, rear windows, and even side mirrors, depending on the type of the vehicle’s defrost system.

It’s the safest and easiest way to let the frost or ice melt away from the car window, especially if there’s only a thin layer. However, you need to give it some time as it can take 15 to 30 minutes to defrost your car window, depending on a few factors, such as the ice thickness, the temperature, and the system.

So, you should turn on the defroster as soon as you start the car and let it do its job before driving. To speed up the process and make it more effective, consider the following tips when using a car defrost system.

• Set the airflow only on the ‘defrost mode’, not other directions, like ‘floor mode’.
• Crack open a window just a little bit to enhance the flow of the air and moisture.
• Set the air intake on the ‘fresh air mode’.
• Be patient and don’t start driving before you have a clear visibility. 

However, sometimes using the defrost function is not an option. For example, the ice is too thick, you’re in a hurry, or maybe the system isn’t working. In such cases, you should consider some other methods to unfreeze car window. Read on to see what else you can do.

2. De-icing Sprays Are Easy and Fast

Commercial de-icing sprays, like Prestone Windshield De-Icer, are specifically produced to melt the ice on car windows. The products are usually alcohol-based and come with instructions on how to use them effectively. It can still take a few minutes for the ice to melt, even longer if it’s thicker or the temperature is too low.

Here are some tips and precautions to keep in mind when using this method.

• Stick to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines for use and storage.
• You should only use them outdoors or in a place with good ventilation because inhaling the fumes can be harmful to you.
• If it’s the first time you are using a certain product, test it on a little unnoticeable area before applying it to the whole window.
• The product can hurt or irritate your skin and eyes. So, protect your hands and eyes with gloves and goggles.
• It may damage or discolor your car paint. So, don’t let it come in contact with the painted surface. If it happens, wipe it off ASAP.
• If the window is heated for any reason (like defrost function has been on), let it cool before spraying de-icing products on it to protect it from cracking due to thermal shock.
• When it’s done, wipe or rinse the window to get rid of the de-icing product residue.

3. Warm Water Spray Will Do in a Pinch

When you don’t have access to anything else to unfreeze car window, you can use warm water to loosen the ice. However, you must be cautious not to cause any thermal shock to the window otherwise it will crack. To avoid damage, you should

• only use warm water, not hot.
• spray it, don’t pour the water. Excessive water not only causes damage to the glass but also may freeze and worsen the problem.
• try to spray evenly and cover the entire window, but focus more on the thicker areas.
• be patient as it can take a few minutes for the ice to start melting.
• use an ice scraper or a credit card (as discussed above) to speed up the process, if possible. You can even use the windshield wipers when the ice is well-melted.

4. An Ice Scraper Can be Effective in Defrosting Windows in Winter

A useful tool to scrape away the ice from your car window is a flat metal or plastic blade called an ice scraper. Some of them come with a little brush at the other end to remove snow from the window.

However, to make sure the scraper doesn’t cause any damage, you should follow the guidelines below when using one.

• Plastic blades are less risky than metal ones. So, to avoid scratches, plastic ice scrapers are recommended.
• Choose an ice scraper that you can have a firm and comfortable hold.
• Hold it at a 45-degree angle against the window.
• Start scraping from the edges where the ice is usually thinner.
• Don’t press too hard.
• Use the brush or your hand to remove the ice that has been scraped from time to time.
• If you come across some stubborn parts, be patient and don’t use too much force. Pour warm water or spray de-icing products to melt it.

When you don’t have an ice scraper, you can use a sturdy credit card or any other card like that. Just remember that the card might get damaged. You can wrap it in a cloth if the card matters to you.

5. Simple Homemade Solutions Come in Handy When Defrosting Windshields

Now, let’s learn how to make some homemade de-icer. Of course, these solutions may not be as effective as the commercial de-icer sprays but can help you when a good one isn’t available.

You can apply the following homemade de-icing solutions the same way as the warm water spray discussed in the previous section.

• Rubbing alcohol + water: Combine two parts rubbing alcohol (70% or higher) with one part water. Spray it on the ice in a well-ventilated area and give it some time. Remember, alcohol is flammable so be careful. Plus, it can irritate the skin and eyes so protect them from any overspray.
• White vinegar + water: Combine three parts white vinegar with one part water (if the ice is not too thick, an equal mix of vinegar and water will do the trick). Spray it and let it be for a few minutes to soften the ice. This is a safe solution to use instead of chemical de-icers.

Overall, different tools and methods are useful when it comes to defrosting your car window. Based on the situation and available resources you should decide which one will be the right option for you. Whatever method, be patient and put safety above everything else.

Did you know you can get mobile windshield services wherever you are in Austin, TX? Just call and our technicians will be on their way to come to you.

Preventing Windshield Frost Is Easier than Unfreezing It

You may not even need to unfreeze car window if you follow the tips and techniques below.

• Use a windshield cover or anything else that can be used as one (like cardboard or a towel), to protect the glass from freezing.
• Spray commercial de-icers or homemade solutions introduced above evenly on the car window and let it dry. These solutions lower the freezing point and protect car windows from forming frost.

Obviously, parking in a garage can be the ultimate solution but it may not be possible.

Common Mistakes in Dealing with Frozen Car Windows

Making some mistakes when unfreezing car windows would mean not only wasting time but also damaging your car or hurting yourself. Here are some tips and considerations:

• Pouring hot water on a frosty windshield can crack the glass.
• When parking your car in cold weather, raise the wipers away from the windshield to prevent them from sticking to the glass when freezing.
• Only use winter-grade fluid that contains de-icers as the windshield washer fluid. Otherwise, it can freeze in the reservoir and you’ll have another thing to unfreeze. Plus, the right washer fluid can help you in defrosting the windscreen.
• Never use keys or any other metal objects to scrape the ice as they can scratch the glass.
• Be gentle and don’t use excessive force.
• Don’t start driving before the windshield and other windows are completely defrosted. Even some remaining spots can compromise the visibility which is dangerous for you and others.
• Use gloves to protect your skin from the cold and ice.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using de-icers. They can be harmful to you, the car, or even the surrounding objects and people.
• Make sure you have your winter emergency kit with you all the time. It should include gloves, an ice scraper, a blanket, a flashlight with extra batteries, tier chains, winter-grade washer fluid, a tool kit, a first aid kit, a small shovel, etc.

Take low temperatures seriously when driving, especially on roads. You don’t know what can happen to your car, so always be prepared.

Unfreeze Car Window FAQs

Now, let’s answer some of your commonly asked questions about frozen windshields.

How Long Does It Take to Unfreeze My Car Window?

Depending on the thickness of the ice, the inside and outside temperatures, and the method you use to unfreeze the car window, it can take a few minutes to half an hour. Of course, if you don’t have the right tools or don’t know how to use them properly, it may take even longer.

How Do I Unfreeze My Windshield Washer Fluid?

There are a few ways:

• Warm up your car and let it unfreeze.
• Pour some warm water over its reservoir.
• Add windshield washer antifreeze additives.

How Can I Keep Car Windows from Freezing Shut?

If you have to park outdoors, use car covers or window covers to protect them from freezing shut. Applying de-icer sprays or silicone sprays can also help.

Affordable Windshield Repair and Replacement in Austin, TX

Fortunately, in Austin, we rarely experience frosty weather, but still, everyone needs to know how to unfreeze car window or keep it from freezing. Besides, having a winter kit is necessary whether you’re driving in the city or on the road.

Now, no matter if you need a quick car window repair, auto glass replacement, or even car safety equipment calibration, you can count on us for professional services and top-notch products. Your safety and convenience matter to us. Call 512-241-1211 for more information.