AA warns against 'genius' windscreen de-icing hack as it could cause damage

The AA has issued advice regarding windscreen de-icing, warning motorists to steer clear of one frequently used item at all costs. As freezing temperatures arrive, grappling with an ice scraper, brush or cloth during the early morning becomes an additional element of the daily journey to work.

Lots of people are eager to experiment with tricks and techniques circulated on social media - from using white vinegar to a sandwich bag filled with warm water and more - there's an abundance of apparent hacks and methods to accelerate the tedious task.

However, the AA cautions drivers not to "fall for online hacks". It explains: "There are a lot of videos out there claiming to have genius ways to defrost your car. But most of the methods don't work or could even cause you extra problems." One particular windscreen clearing trick involves the use of hot water, but the AA advised this should be avoided.

In guidance online, it explains: "If you use hot water for the ice on your car, you run the real risk of damaging your windscreen."

The organisation also cautions "even lukewarm water" ought to be avoided. This is due to the fact that "glass expands quickly when hot or even warm water touches it" and will "contract quickly" as "it cools down in the cold air".

The AA elaborates: "That flexing can make the glass crack even if you're using lukewarm water - especially if it had small chips or cracks already."

It continues: "Beware a refreeze. On very cold days, the water could turn to ice before you know it - and warm water freezes faster than cold water.

"If it refreezes, it'll create a layer of ice on your windscreen (and on your driveway if you've spilt any).

"Worse, it'll build up on the wipers and freeze them to the glass, risking damage to the wiper motor or ripping off the rubber if you switch them on."

The motoring organisation reinforced this advice in a YouTube video, encouraging motorists to avoid attempting tricks widely shared on social media and adhere to a five-step procedure:

Ensure wipers are turned off in case they're frozen to the screen

Turn on the engine and heating, along with the rear-screen heater but "don't use hot or boiling water"

Remove any snow from the vehicle and lights using a soft brush

Clear the windows and windscreen with an ice scraper and a can of de-icer. Ensure you stay with your vehicle while the engine is running

Hold off until all the ice and condensation has disappeared before you drive your car

This is emphasised by the Highway Code, which warns "before you set off, you must be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows" and "you must ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible".

This is again backed by section 41D of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which makes it a legal requirement to be able to see the road ahead clearly before you set off.

Should you drive with a blocked view, you could face a penalty or, worse still, be involved in a collision.