Defrost car windscreen in seconds with ‘magic’ button – some drivers unaware

As the UK continues to face snow and icy temperatures this week, drivers are waking up to frozen windscreens

The UK is well and truly in the grip of winter as temperatures continue to nosedive bringing ice and snow.

Across the UK, many have woken to a blanket of snow this week, with more forecast throughout the coming days. As the mercury drops and nights grow increasingly bitter, countless motorists will face the dreaded frozen windscreen – a recipe for running late. But before you grab the scraper and brave the elements, a motoring expert has revealed you needn’t suffer at all. There’s a simple trick to clear the ice from inside your vehicle while it warms up, using a button you’ve probably overlooked.

Driving Test Success – the UK’s leading provider of Theory Test revision materials – posted a video on their TikTok account @drivingtestsuccess demonstrating how to banish ice by activating your windscreen fan. This heats the glass from within, melting away the frost. In their video, they explained: “Frozen windscreen? Put the temperature on high.”, reports the Mirror.

“Put the front windscreen fan on max. The ice will start to melt from the heat. Wipe away excess water and return the fan to normal.” Whilst the tip may appear straightforward to experienced drivers, numerous social media users were stunned they’d never come across this hack before.

One commenter said: “Wow, magic! The ice is gone.” One grateful user praised the account, writing: “I’ve learned so much thanks to your app!”. However, not everyone was convinced. One sceptical TikTok user dismissed the tip, saying: “Wastes more fuel. Just get [out] and scrape it off you lazy so and so.”

Driving Test Success isn’t the only source sharing this handy de-icing method. Clear View Driving posted similar advice, urging motorists to use their demister before setting off. They explained: “Now don’t use your windscreen wipers or washers as that won’t help. Turn on your front and rear demister.

“The rear demister also heats up your side mirrors in most new cars. But if the mirrors are not clear, make sure to clear them before you start driving. Then, once it’s done you can use your wipers.” During the chilly winter period, the AA has also advised drivers to “turn on the warm air blower” and “heated mirrors” to tackle frost quickly and safely.

They said: “Start the engine and turn on the warm air blower on the windscreen. Switch on the rear windscreen heater and heated mirrors, if you have them. Turn on the air-con. It’s not just for summer – it’ll remove moisture from the air to stop the car from misting up. Don’t use your hands to wipe misted-up windows – you’ll leave greasy smears and a diamond ring could scratch the glass. Use a lint-free absorbent cloth if necessary. Stay with your car the whole time while the engine’s running.”