Motorists are being warned of expensive repair costs to their vehicles this winter as experts warn of common defrosting habits potentially causing serious damage.
More than a third of drivers could even be at risk of being slapped with a fine as a result of their winter morning habits.
New research also shows that almost half of motorists risk damaging their car when clearing ice from their windscreen in the colder months.
Experts are now calling on drivers to ensure they are being safe when clearing frost from their windscreen or they could be left out of pocket.
Data found that one in five motorists admitted to using boiling water from a kettle to clear ice, frost and condensation from their windscreens in a rush.
While it may seem like a sure-fire way to clear the windscreen of any frost, the rapid shift in temperatures can cause the glass to crack and even shatter.
The AA warns that drivers should even avoid lukewarm water, as the glass can crack when quickly expanding and contracting, especially if it has a crack or chip in it already.
Other common issues that could cause issues during frost include using windscreen wipers to clear frost, despite the damage it can cause to the wiper blades and electric motors.
Drivers could be breaking the Highway Code if they fail to clear their windscreen properly
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Drivers will likely find themselves paying more than £100 for something as simple as a windscreen crack, and up to £400 for an entire windscreen wiper unit.
Abir Tewari, UK Director of Commercial Operations, Parts and Accessories at eBay, said: "Following the first cold snap of the season, we're seeing motorists use a range of methods to clear their windscreens - some more effective and safer than others.
"It’s vital drivers prepare their vehicles properly for challenging winter conditions."
Some of the most popular ways to clear windscreen frost include standard ice scrapers for 32 per cent of drivers and de-icer spray for around a quarter of motorists.
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Replacing a windscreen could cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds | GETTYThe AA reported hearing of more bizarre methods to clear windscreen frost from survey respondents, including bank cards, CDs, CD cases, and even a paint scraper.
Many motorists are unaware that they can be slapped with a fine in the winter for failing to ensure their vehicles are clear of frost, ice and snow.
Rule 229 of the Highway Code states that drivers must completely defrost their windows, with the police able to issue a £60 fine and three licence points if they fail to do so.
Similarly, Rule 123 outlines that drivers are not able to leave a parked vehicle unattended with the engine running while stationary on a public road.
The Highway Code instructs motorists to completely clear their windscreen | PAThis is often done by motorists to clear their windscreens of frost by keeping the vehicle on to allow the heaters to gradually clear any windows.
Despite this, drivers may be unaware that they can be slapped with a fine of up to £80 for idling, especially if they are near a school.
An age difference was also emphasised in the research, with just 52 per cent of younger drivers saying they would defrost all windows before setting off, compared to 85 per cent of older motorists.
Rule 123 states: "Generally, if the vehicle is stationary and is likely to remain so for more than a couple of minutes, you should apply the parking brake and switch off the engine to reduce emissions and noise pollution.
"However, it is permissible to leave the engine running if the vehicle is stationary in traffic or for diagnosing faults."