How to keep your car windscreen in top condition this winter

The weather forecast says that wintery weather is on its way so as temperatures drop, ensuring your car is ready for winter becomes a priority. Your car windscreen is particularly vulnerable during the colder months, but a little care can go a long way to keeping it in great condition and saving you from costly repairs.

Here are our top tips for winter car windscreen care:

How to Maintain Your Windscreen Wipers

Your windscreen wipers are your first defence against rain, snow and frost. Damaged wipers not only reduce visibility but can scratch your windscreen, leading to bigger problems.

Inspect regularly: Remember to check your wipers to ensure the rubber is soft and flexible. If they look cracked or brittle, it’s time to replace them.

Clear debris from the wiper blades: Dirt, leaves or small pebbles can get trapped under the wipers so removing these regularly will help prevent scratches.

Protect your wiper blades against frost: On frosty nights, lift your wiper blades away from the glass to prevent the rubber from freezing and cracking.

Check and replace when necessary: If your wipers leave streaks or smears, they’re not working effectively and you should consider replacing them to maintain safety levels when driving.

Act fast on chips and cracks in your car windscreen

Even small windscreen chips can escalate into major problems, especially with the stress of winter driving.

Repair your windscreen quickly: A quick repair is cheaper and more environmentally friendly than replacing an entire windscreen.

Check during cleaning: Every time you clean your car, inspect the windscreen inside and out for new chips or cracks.

Stay MOT compliant and legal: Remember, a chip over 10mm in the driver’s direct line of vision or over 40mm anywhere on the windscreen could cause your car to fail its MOT. Driving with a cracked windscreen might also breach the Road Traffic Act.

Easy steps to De-Ice your windscreen

Rushing the de-icing process first thing in the morning before you’re about to leave home, can damage your windscreen and even make it unsafe to drive. Follow these simple steps for a safe and clear start to your day:

Use the right tools – Avoid makeshift methods—use a proper ice scraper or de-icer spray.

Let De-Icer work – Spray and wait for 10 seconds to allow the chemicals to loosen the ice.

Scrape gently – Use your scraper to remove melting ice without scratching the glass.

Wait for full visibility – Never drive until your windscreen is completely clear.

Why should I look after my windscreen this winter?

Taking these preventative measures not only ensures your safety on the roads but also avoids unnecessary expenses later down the line. A well-maintained windscreen means better visibility, fewer costly repairs and peace of mind throughout the colder months, plus you can drive with added confidence.

At Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Brokers, we’re here to help you stay safe and secure both on and off the roads. Stay safe this winter by calling for further advice on 01905 21681 or email Enquiries@sutcliffeinsurance.co.uk.