Drivers across the UK can now banish frost from their windscreens in minutes without ever needing to pick up a scraper, thanks to a simple trick highlighted by motoring experts.
The 'Magic' One-Button Solution
Experts from Driving Test Success have shared a remarkably straightforward method that involves using your car's built-in climate controls. The advice, which has gained significant traction on social media, instructs motorists to simply turn on their car's windscreen fan and crank it up to the maximum setting.
This action directs warm air onto the glass, causing the ice to melt almost instantly. The tip was demonstrated in a TikTok video by Driving Test Success on 16 January 2026, which has since amassed over a thousand likes. The video's captions clearly outline the steps: "Put the temperature on high. Put the front windscreen fan on max. The ice will start to melt from the heat. Wipe away excess water and return the fan to normal."
Expert Endorsement and Additional Winter Advice
This guidance is echoed by other leading authorities. The AA also recommends drivers "start the engine and turn on the warm air blower on the windscreen" to remove frost rapidly. They further advise switching on the rear windscreen heater and heated mirrors if the vehicle is equipped with them.
Clear View Driving has added crucial supplementary advice for safe winter motoring. They stress that drivers should activate their front and rear demisters before setting off, noting that the rear demister often heats side mirrors in modern cars. Their key warning is: "Don't use your windscreen wipers or washers as that won't help" while the ice is present, and to ensure all mirrors are clear before driving.
Public Reaction and a Note of Caution
The online reaction to the hack has been largely positive, with users like 'samer' commenting "Wow magic the ice is gone." However, not everyone is convinced of its practicality. Some, like user 'MishMash82', have countered that the method "wastes more fuel" compared to manually scraping the ice, labelling proponents as "lazy."
Regardless of the debate, the core advice from all experts remains consistent for safety and effectiveness. The AA also recommends using the air conditioning in conjunction with the heater to de-mist the interior, as it removes moisture from the air. They caution against wiping windows with hands, which can leave greasy smears, and remind drivers to stay with their vehicle while the engine is running during the defrosting process.
