Cool Winter Driving Hacks

If the recent cold snap caught you off guard, don’t worry! We’ve got a few awesome winter driving hacks that’ll help you deal with the cold, snow, slush and slop. Brrrrrrring ’em on!

• A foggy windshield is the result of moisture inside the passenger cabin. It’s annoying and it can be dangerous. A chalkboard eraser helps you clear it without leaving a streaky mess.
• Shaving cream contains many of the same ingredients as commercial defoggers. Spread some on the inside of your windshield and wipe it off to leave an invisible, anti-fog layer. Also, try the AC when the fog hits. The compressor cycles the humidity right out of the air.
• Keep a spare pair of socks in your car. If you get stuck or have to push your car or walk for help in icy conditions slip the socks on over your shoes. Instant traction! You can also slip them over your windshield wipers (only when you’re parked) if there’s freezing rain. They’ll help keep the blades from freezing to the windshield. You can also mix 3 parts of vinegar and 1 part in a spray bottle – spray your windshield to help keep ice from forming in the first place.
• Frozen doors, locks and door handles are a pain but there are several ways to deal with them. If your door lock is frozen use a match or lighter to carefully heat the key then gently insert. A squirt of hand sanitizer on the key and/or door handle works too – the alcohol in the product will melt the ice in short order. A drop or two of WD-40 in the keyhole will help keep ice from forming in the first place.
• To prevent ice from forming on side mirrors when you’re parked, cover them them with plastic bags sand secure them with rubber bands. They’ll be ice-free when you’re ready to roll in the morning.
• Visibility is key. If your vehicle is a little older the headlight covers may not be as clear as they should be. Try rubbing some toothpaste on them and rinsing with warm water. It’ll clear up the foggy lenses and it’s a whole lot cheaper that commercial products that do basically the same thing.
• Salt and other road de-icing products can damage your undercarriage. When you hit the car wash, spring for the wash option that cleans the bottom facing parts. On warmer days grab a lawn sprinkler, place it under the center of your vehicle, turn on the water and carefully drive back and forth over it.
• Keep a couple bags of kitty litter in the trunk. It works great to provide traction if you get stuck. It works under the tires and under your feet if you have to push. As a last resort, your floor mats can be used to provide traction you’re stuck and there aren’t any other options.