Drivers could be forced into £500 car repair after making major de-icing mistake

Motorists could “crack” or “shatter” their car windscreen by making a simple mistake while attempting to de-ice their vehicle this autumn and winter , according to experts. Windscreen glass could be damaged “beyond repair” in some situations in a major blow to cash-strapped road users. Temperatures continue to fall with Met Office snow and ice warnings in place.

The big freeze is likely to see cars covered in a thick layer of frost but a lack of patience to remove it could easily backfire. According to specialists at Windscreen Wipers , pouring hot water directly onto the glass is a big problem that should be avoided at any cost. They said: “Using water of any temperature to de-ice windscreens is not advised.



“Hot water will cause the glass to expand, which can result in it cracking or even shattering, and cold water can freeze on top of existing ice and frost. Both methods can damage your windscreen, sometimes beyond repair. “This is why using windscreen washer fluid that is designed to be used in freezing temperatures is important.

“The solution lowers the freezing point of the fluid so you can safely clear your windscreen while driving and not damage your wipers or the windscreen.” The risk comes from a sudden change of temperature which causes the glass to expand and crack. A damaged windscreen could be considered a major safety risk as it can block motorists' visibility of the road ahead.

Meanwhile, motoring comparison site BookMyGarage stressed that any chips or cracks in the glass could lead to an “instant MOT failure”. This is a particular risk if the damaged screen is not repaired or replaced as soon as possible. BookMyGarage states that the cost of a windscreen replacement is around £180 for most vehicles in the UK.

However, high-end models from expensive brands could see costs rise closer to £500 in a major dent in family finances. They stress the “costs can easily rack up” with windscreen replacement requiring "certain expertise”. Car insurance experts at Marmalade added: “In short, yes.

This isn't an old wives tale or car driving myth, boiling water + car windscreen is not a combination you want to put together all that often.”.