The snowstorm has stopped and you head back outside, making plans to meet friends or go shopping. I realized that my car was truly buried under snow and ice. What is your occupation?
With the right car-specific tools and a little patience, you can have your car cleaned up in no time. And you can do the job without breaking glass, scratching paintwork, or otherwise damaging anything that requires expensive repairs.
Safe driving: Clearing snow from your car will make driving safer.
If you parked in a garage or under ample cover, you probably don’t need to worry about this. However, if you’re in an outdoor parking lot or parked at the curb, these suggestions may help.
So, get ready and get to work. But be careful. If you are on the road, be aware of traffic.
tools needed
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- Soft snow brush, foam or soft bristles, with good handle
- Plastic ice scraper for glass (without metal edge scraper)
- Liquid antifreeze spray for glass
And don’t forget to dress warmly. I might be out for a while.
Never use these items
- Metal shovels, hard brooms, or other items that can scratch paint or glass.
- hot water. Pouring hot or lukewarm water into a glass filled with ice can cause thermal shock and cause it to break.
Start
First, make sure your car’s tailpipe is not blocked by snow or ice. Everything must be clear, since you will be running the engine.
Start the engine and turn on the rear window defroster. Turn on the front defroster with the fan set to low to medium. When the room warms up, snow removal becomes easier.
With the engine running, remove as much snow as possible from the roof of your car. Do not leave anything on the roof. It could slip while driving and splash onto the car behind you. Thick ice can hit and damage other vehicles and cause accidents.
wipe all windows
Working down the sides of the car, clean the windshield and side windows. Use antifreeze spray if necessary. Use a hand scraper to remove the ice in short, quick strokes, being careful not to damage the paint. Keep the scraper at a low angle.
Windows should be open to improve visibility and avoid dangerous situations for other motorists.
Use a soft brush on side mirrors, headlights, front grille, turn signals, and car cameras. Don’t forget to clear the bumper’s ultrasonic sensor or brake sensor.
Finally, carefully lift the wiper up, making sure it is not frozen to the glass. Please remove the ice that is in the way. If you haven’t already done so, check and refill your anti-ice wiper fluid.
Contributor Charles Singh, Nashville, Tennessee
SOURCE USA TODAY NETWORK REPORTS AND INVESTIGATIONS. aaa.com
