‘It could crack your windscreen’ warns motoring expert as viral de-icing hack gains popularity – don’t damage your motor
A MOTORING expert has warned drivers could crack their windscreens with a de-icing hack that's going viral.
The tip has been gaining popularity online as motorists hunt for quick fixes as temperatures plunge.
The hack sees drivers fill up a zip-lock bag with boiling water and rub it over their icy windshield, defrosting the ice that's built up as the mercury plummets.
And while videos on social media show the trick does indeed work, an expert says it can also be dangerous.
Tim Rodie, an expert at Motorpoint, says not only could the difference temperature between the bag and windshield see it crack, but the plastic could break and burn the driver.
He says that even if the bag has warm tap water, as opposed to scolding hot liquid, it could still be risky.
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Tim said: “One piece of advice I’m seeing everywhere involves filling a bag with water and running it across your car to help remove any ice that has built up overnight.
“While it might seem like a good idea, I wouldn’t suggest trying it. Not only do you risk getting burnt if the bag breaks, but the rapid temperature change can cause your windscreen to crack – even if just using warm water from the tap.
“It’s also important to remember that if your car hasn’t warmed up, the water on your windscreen can refreeze – obstructing your view.
"Not to mention, causing your windscreen wipers to stick.”
As the wintery conditions set in, drivers have been quick to share their best tips and tricks online.
One motorist recently shared what they say is a convenient and quicker way to de-ice their windscreen - using a product that costs £2.99.
Others revealed a hack that instantly melts ice on a car's windshield has been revealed- and it costs just 30p.
While one driver shared a tip which de-ices your windshield in seconds - and doesn't cost a penny.
Another hack is cutting an onion in half, and then before your windscreen is iced over, rub it generously over the screen.
And elsewhere, a winter survival kit has been revealed as an expert shared the essential items drivers should keep in their cars at all times.
But, the most simple tip is to park your car in the right place because the sun rises in the east and will melt it for you.