In New England, snow and icy conditions can last for several months each year. If you park your car outside during winter, removing the buildup often means brushing and scraping away thick layers of frozen precipitation that have hardened on your windows. Even as spring approaches, early morning frosts can still leave your windshield icy at the start of the season.
In Connecticut, it's required by law to clear all ice and snow from your vehicle before driving on the road. Failing to do so not only risks fines but also puts other drivers and pedestrians in danger. Additionally, improper use of an ice scraper or other tools can damage your car’s surface, including the glass and paint.
If you’re not careful, using an ice scraper or other tools can cause scratches, chips, or even cracks. Before the next snowstorm hits, here are some important tips to keep in mind.
**Using Too Much Pressure**
When ice is really stuck to your car, it might be tempting to apply a lot of force to remove it quickly. However, this can put unnecessary strain on the glass and lead to small chips, scratches, or even cracks over time. To reduce pressure, start by defrosting your car for about 15 minutes. Then, use a bristled or foam brush to remove as much snow as possible before using a scraper. This gives the ice a chance to soften and slide off more easily.
**Avoid Using Metal or Non-Scraper Tools**
When dealing with glass, avoid using metal tools. Although they may seem stronger, they can easily chip or crack your windshield, potentially requiring a full replacement. A plastic ice scraper is the safer choice for this job.
Also, don’t use a shovel or any tool that isn’t designed for ice removal. Even plastic shovels can have hard edges that scratch your car’s paint or create deep gouges. Similarly, traditional brooms made of straw or nylon can leave fine scratches on your car’s surface when used with ice and debris underneath.
**Don’t Use an Ice Scraper on the Car Body**
The hard plastic edge of an ice scraper can scratch or gouge your car’s paint, especially when combined with moisture and road salt. Instead, let your car warm up first, then remove large snow chunks by hand or with a push brush—without touching the car’s surface directly.
**Better Snow Removal Habits**
To protect your car from scratches, rust, or cracked glass, follow these simple steps:
1. Defrost your car for at least 10–15 minutes before starting.
2. Wear gloves and remove large snow chunks by hand. At this point, the ice should come off easily.
3. Use a snow broom or brush to push off remaining snow, keeping the tool at least a quarter inch away from the car’s surface.
4. Start from the top and work your way down to avoid re-brushing the same areas.
5. When scraping ice from the windows, stop a small border away from the edge to prevent damage to trim or moldings.
6. If parking outdoors is unavoidable, consider using a car cover to protect your vehicle.
7. Make sure your car is waxed before winter begins, and touch up the wax after each storm to keep the paint protected.
If your car has been damaged from ice scraping, DaSilva’s Auto Body can help restore the paint and handle any rust-related repairs. Contact our Naugatuck location today to schedule an appointment.
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