Survey commissioned by Autoglym found that 43% of motorists admit to driving off before windscreen is completely clear of snow and ice; that proportion jumps to 67% among those aged 25-34
Many resort to unusual methods for de-icing – 28% use a credit card; 17% hot or boiling water; 14% a kitchen implement; 4% a mobile phone
It is a legal requirement to have a clear view of the road ahead before you set off (Road Traffic Act 1988)
Autoglym’s high-performance Ultimate Screenwash and De-Icer provide a fast-acting, reliable solution to keep windscreens clear and drivers safer during cold spells
Letchworth, 9 January 2026: A new nationwide survey has found that a significant proportion of UK motorists admit to not fully clearing their windscreen of snow and ice before driving off during winter months, and that share is significantly higher among younger drivers.
In the survey, commissioned by leading car care brand Autoglym, car owners were asked if they ever drive off before their windscreen is completely clear of snow and ice during winter months, and 43% answered ‘yes’. Among those aged 25-34 that number jumps to 67%, and for those aged 18 to 24 it is 64%. Older drivers are far more cautious; just 21% of those aged 65 and over say they drive off before properly clearing the windscreen of ice or snow.
Men are more likely to drive off before clearing snow – 45% do so, compared to 40% of women. Looking at areas of the UK where respondents are based, those in London (52%) and in Scotland (52%) are most likely to drive off without properly clearing the windscreen, whereas those in Northern Ireland are least likely (25%).
Section 41D of the Road Traffic Act 1988 makes it a legal requirement to have a clear view of the road ahead before you set off, which means the windscreen should be fully de-iced on the outside and thoroughly demisted on the inside. Failure to do so could result in penalty points and a fine, as well as creating a significant risk of a collision with other road users. The requirements are also enshrined in Rule 229 of the Highway Code.
Motorists use unconventional methods to de-iceA key reason why people aren’t clearing snow properly could be that they are resorting unconventional tools and methods to do so.
When asked about how they go about the task, 32% of UK car owners said they use ‘a bare or gloved hand’. Other unconventional methods for shifting snow and ice from windscreen include ‘a credit, debit or loyalty card’ (28%), a ‘broom or dustpan brush’ (18%), ‘boiling or hot water’ (17%), ‘kitchen implement, such as a spatula’ (14%), ‘a book or magazine’ (5%) and even a ‘mobile phone’ (4%).
On a chilly morning, consumers understandably want a rapid result, but some alternatives to de-icer are more likely to do more harm than good. An alarming 25% of those in London say they use boiling or hot water to melt the ice – a method that results in a dramatic temperature change that can crack reinforced windscreen glass.
To safely and effectively remove ice on a car’s exterior glass surfaces, Autoglym recommends using a quality de-icer. Autoglym De-Icer is a fast-acting water-free formula, effective down to temperatures as low as -50°C, preventing refreezing and is harmless to vehicle paintwork, rubber and plastics. As well as windscreens and side glass, it can be used on mirrors, headlamps and even door locks.
To keep the windscreen clear while driving, Autoglym’s high-performing Ultimate Screenwash can be used to ensure a clear screen in all weather and driving conditions. Suitable for all vehicles and spray nozzle types, including headlight washers, the 500ml bottle is concentrated and can be diluted to make up to 8 litres, and can shift all common road contaminants and will not freeze down to -45°C.
To purchase the Autoglym De-Icer and Ultimate Screenwash and De-icer, visit: www.amazon.co.uk, www.autoglym.com, or visit independent car care retailers.
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Automobile Magazine-UK
