Drivers are being urged to avoid using a common frost clearing hack this winter or they could be forced to pay hundreds or even thousands of pounds in damages.
Temperatures are dropping and motorists could be struggling to deal with their windscreens covered in frost or ice, and may be looking for a quick solution.
Experts are warning that drivers need to act responsibly when clearing their cars in the morning, especially when using a common hack.
Motorists should avoid using boiling water to instantly clear the frost and condensation from their cars as this could crack, warp or even shatter the windscreen.
Replacing a windscreen could cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds
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The dramatic change in temperatures between the ice and boiling water could cause damage to the windscreen and drivers could even see their windscreen freeze again because hot water can freeze faster than cooler water in extremely cold conditions.
Ali Ingram-Seal, car insurance expert at Saga, urged drivers to make sure they are safe when clearing ice, frost and even snow from their cars.
She said: “Freezing cold glass and boiling water do not mix well, and you may well end up with a cracked windscreen that could cost hundreds to fix if you attempt to defrost your car this way.
“Use de-icer or lukewarm water - never boiling - to de-ice your car.
“Some people even use hot water bottles because they also keep your hands warm in the process.
“Do this while hot air is blowing inside the car and scrape away any remaining ice.”
According to Autoglass, it will cost motorists £207.98 including VAT to repair a single chip on their windscreen if someone does not have glass cover as part of their insurance.
Drivers who own higher-end vehicles like a Range Rover could be hammered by the cost of replacing a windscreen, with estimates as much as £1,650.
For smaller and more common videos, drivers will still end up shelling out hundreds of pounds if they try to defrost their windscreen with hot water.
The number of “ice”-related claims between December 2022 and February 2023 saw a 318 per cent rise compared to winter 2021-2022.
December 2022 alone saw a staggering 412 winter-related claims as the country experienced a prolonged spell of cold and snowy weather.
Drivers are being urged to ensure they are prepared for the winter weather, especially if they are preparing for a large trip, like visiting friends and family.
Alex Cross, Insurance Director at Tesco Bank comments: “As temperatures lower, your vehicle may be more susceptible to breaking down.
“Taking small but necessary checks on your vehicle can reduce the chances of a breakdown or an accident.”
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Drivers are advised to keep an essential items kit in their cars during winter
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Experts have also called on motorists to carry key pieces of kit in their cars in the winter as it will make driving far easier and less stressful.
This can include important items like warm, waterproof clothing, an ice scraper and de-icer to make the colder mornings slightly easier.
