Keep Your Windscreen in Good Condition This Winter

20th December 2024

As winter weather brings cold temperatures and challenging driving conditions, your windscreen needs extra care to ensure it stays in good shape. Looking after it now could save you time and money down the road. Here are some key tips to maintain your windscreen and wipers during the colder months.

1. Maintain Your Windscreen Wipers

Your wiper blades play a vital role in keeping your windscreen clear, but harsh winter weather can damage them. Protect your wipers to prevent costly damage to your windscreen.

• Check Wipers Regularly: Make sure the rubber on your wipers is soft, flexible, and free from cracks. If they are hard or cracked, it’s time to replace them.
• Clear Debris: Remove any debris or small pebbles trapped under the wiper blades. This will prevent scratching the windscreen when you use them.
• Lift Wipers During Frost: Before the cold weather sets in, lift the wiper blades off the windscreen to prevent the rubber from freezing or cracking.
• Replace if Necessary: If your wipers smear the windscreen or leave streaks when you use them, it’s a sign they need replacing.

2. Deal with Chips or Cracks Quickly

A chipped or cracked windscreen can compromise your visibility and safety—and it could even get you into trouble with the law.

• Repair Chips Promptly: Small chips can turn into bigger cracks if left unchecked, so it’s crucial to repair them quickly. Not only does this save you money and time, but it also reduces the environmental impact compared to a full replacement.
• Check Your Windscreen Regularly: Inspect your windscreen inside and out each time you clean your car. This will help catch any damage early.
• Know the Legal Limits: If a chip or crack is over 10mm in the driver’s direct line of vision or over 40mm anywhere on the windscreen, your car may fail its MOT. So, it’s essential to stay on top of windscreen damage.

3. Easy Steps to De-Ice Your Windscreen

Winter mornings often bring frost and ice on your windscreen, which can be dangerous if not cleared properly. Follow these steps for safe and efficient de-icing:

1. Use a Proper Ice Scraper or De-Icer Spray: Always use a proper scraper or a de-icer solution to remove frost and ice from the windscreen.
2. Let the De-Icer Work: After applying the de-icer spray, give it a few moments to work—count to ten—to loosen the ice.
3. Scrape Off the Ice: Once the ice begins to melt, use the scraper to remove it.
4. Wait for the Windscreen to Clear: Don’t start driving until the windscreen is completely clear of ice or fog. This ensures optimal visibility and safety.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your windscreen in good condition through the winter months, ensuring clear visibility and reducing the risk of costly repairs. Stay safe on the roads!