Winter De-Icing Habits Could Be Damaging Cars And Vans, Drivers Warned

Nearly one in five motorists is risking damage to their cars and vans by using boiling water to clear frozen windscreens, according to new research that highlights how common but unsafe winter shortcuts can lead to expensive repairs.

The survey findings show that many drivers are unknowingly putting their vehicles at risk when trying to de-ice windows quickly on cold mornings. Pouring boiling water onto a frozen windscreen can trigger a sudden temperature shock, which may cause cracks, chips, or even complete shattering.

The research indicates that almost half of UK drivers may be damaging their vehicles by using methods to remove ice. Around 19% admitted to pouring boiling water over frozen windows to speed up defrosting, despite the risk of serious glass damage and costly replacement, while around 30% of drivers said they use their windscreen wipers to scrape away ice. This can strain the wiper motor and damage the rubber blades, making them blunt or torn and reducing visibility, which means drivers have to replace wipers sooner than expected.

The survey also found that some drivers take additional risks before they even start their journey. About 18% said they are comfortable leaving their engine running to warm up and defrost their vehicle. More concerningly, 15% admitted they would walk away and carry out other tasks while the vehicle is left idling and unattended.

Leaving a vehicle running while unattended increases the risk of theft and also breaks Rule 123 of the Highway Code, which makes the practice illegal, and drivers who do this can receive a fine.

Abir Tewari, UK Director of parts and Accessories at eBay, said: “Following the first cold snap of the season, we’re seeing motorists use a range of methods to clear their windscreens – some more effective and safer than others. It is vital that drivers prepare their vehicles properly for challenging winter conditions.”