How to properly clear snow off your vehicle in winter

Why is it important to clear snow off your vehicle before driving?

Completely removing snow from your car is first and foremost a winter road safety necessity. Even for short trips, reduced visibility increases the risk of an accident. Backup cameras and sensors can’t replace a clear view through all your windows. Clearing these sensors and cameras should be part of your snow-removal routine to ensure they work properly.

Think about other road users as well. Poorly cleared vehicles (those infamous mobile igloos) can send snow and ice chunks flying onto the cars behind, causing damage or accidents. Besides being dangerous, this can lead to a $60 to $100 fine (plus fees). Take the time to properly clear your vehicle and adjust your driving to winter conditions.

Choosing the right snow brush and ice-removal tools

Choose a durable snow brush for car that matches the size of your vehicle.

• A telescopic brush is better suited for SUVs
• A standard-size brush is enough for a sedan

Avoid cheap brushes—they wear out quickly and can damage the paint. And forget quick fixes like hot water, alcohol, or “miracle sprays.” Nothing replaces a thorough and manual car defrosting.

For effective car snow removal:

• Start with the roof and work your way down the sides and windows.
• Use an ice scraper, but never directly on the bodywork.
• Avoid scraping the rubber seals around the windows.
• In freezing rain, start your vehicle to warm up the cabin and defrost the windshield. Then gently tap the ice on the windows to loosen it.

Why does frost form inside the car, and how can you prevent it?

Interior frost forms mainly due to moisture trapped inside the cabin. This moisture can come from snow on your boots, wet clothing, or insufficient air circulation.

In some cases, excess moisture can also indicate a mechanical issue: a dirty cabin air filter, ventilation stuck in “recirculation” mode, or water leaking in because of faulty seals.

To limit humidity and interior frost:

• Shake off your boots to remove snow before getting into your car.
• Avoid letting snow melt and accumulate on the floor mats.
• Choose rubber mats—they’re easy to empty and clean. Find your winter car accessories at the CAA-Quebec Boutique and earn CAA Dollars back if you’re a member.
• Use a small dehumidifier or silica gel bag to reduce condensation.
• Have the seals and cabin air filter checked if frost keeps returning.

Good to know: A bit of frost may appear during the first days after a windshield replacement. This is often due to residual moisture or a poorly adjusted seal. If the problem persists, have the seal checked.

How to remove frost inside the windshield

Here’s how to remove interior frost without damaging the surfaces:

• Use a flexible scraper or a plastic card (credit card).
• Turn on heating and air conditioning at the same time for faster windshield defrosting.
• Open the doors or windows for a few minutes to release humid air.
• Use interior defrosting products if needed.

Key tips to improve visibility and drive safely in winter

Clear snow and ice off your vehicle after every snowfall. This is essential for safe and comfortable winter driving. These simple steps improve visibility on the road, prevent interior frost, and make driving more pleasant—even in extreme cold. A few minutes of preparation before leaving can make a big difference depending on the weather conditions.