Foggy car windows are not just annoying, but can pose a serious safety issue. Thankfully, there are better solutions to fix and prevent the issue than endless fumbling with the air conditioner settings.
Air within a vehicle is usually warmer and more humid than the air outside. Car windows come into contact with both environments, and if the difference in temperature is great enough, moisture can form on the inside and give them a foggy appearance.
Windows fogging can range from a mild annoyance to a serious impairment for drivers – and its onset can be rapid. Knowing how to clear (or even prevent) foggy windows is important for all drivers.
How do I clear foggy car windows?
1. Use your air conditioning
If your windows are fogging, try leaving the air conditioning switched on with your heater set at a comfortable temperature. You’ll be surprised how quickly the fog can clear with the right air conditioner setting.
It’s also a good idea to turn the recirculation off when using the air conditioning and allowing a little fresh air in when possible.
Using your car’s demister function is also a handy way to clear the windscreen of condensation. In most modern cars, the demister will engage the air conditioner and fan to force dry, warmed air onto the windscreen.
2. Defroster
In addition to the front windscreen demister, your car is also equipped with a rear window defroster. To keep the glass clear of condensation, the defroster uses an electric element which warms the glass to evaporate accumulated moisture.
3. Keep it clean
Oil, dust and other contaminants build up on your windows over time, giving water vapour more surface area on which to cling. A thorough clean of both the inside and outside of windows should be included anytime a vehicle is washed.
Automotive glass polish – in combination with regular car wash – is the best way to break down and strip contaminants from the exterior of windows, while a dedicated glass cleaner and suitable cloth is best for the inside.
Properly cleaned glass is more resistant to fogging, will clear moisture more quickly, and is easier to clean the next time.