How to tackle frozen car doors: Winter tips for drivers
Winter can present numerous challenges for drivers, and efficiently opening car doors is a key issue many of us face. How do you deal with frozen locks and seals? Here are a few ways to handle frozen doors.
Winter isn't just about beautiful landscapes; it also brings everyday difficulties associated with keeping your car ready to drive. One of the most common problems is frozen doors, which can significantly hinder morning departures. What can be done to prevent car doors from freezing? To avoid such situations, it's worth starting with simple preventive measures. Lubricating seals with glycerin is a proven method to prevent them from freezing. Glycerin creates a protective layer on the rubber surface, making it difficult for moisture to freeze.
Another equally effective method is coating the seals with technical petroleum jelly. It's inexpensive and effectively protects the seals from winter challenges. Regular use of these products is an investment that pays off with trouble-free door opening.
How to open frozen car doors?
Unfortunately, it's not always possible to avoid door freezing, especially when the frost intensifies. In such situations, chemical de-icers for locks and seals are useful. These are widely available at gas stations and supermarkets, and applying them is quick and simple. Just gently spray the lock and seals, and after a moment, the ice begins to melt, making it easier to open the door.
Another method for frozen car doors involves using a warmed key. When no de-icers are on hand, you can gently heat the key with, for instance, a lighter. This should be done carefully to avoid damaging the key fob. If a power source is available, hairdryers can also be used. Direct the warm air at the frozen lock and seals. Both methods involve gently melting the ice in locks using heat. When using a hairdryer, remember not to direct the stream of heat at one spot for too long.
When attempting to open frozen doors, it is strongly advised against using force, as this may damage the handle or tear the seals. Avoid pulling the doors toward you. A better solution is to try pushing them in, which can help break the ice. Using hot water is also dangerous. The temperature difference can damage windows and paintwork.
What to do if frozen doors still won't open?
Sometimes, despite using various methods, the doors won't budge. Try getting into the car from other doors or through the trunk in such cases. Once inside, you can turn on the heating and wait a moment for the ice to start melting, which often makes it easier to open the driver's door.
