Here’s what to do and not do when clearing off your car after KC snowfall
The Kansas City area received between 3 and 6 inches of snow over the weekend in the midst of freezing temperatures. If your car was uncovered in the last few days, it’s likely your windshields are icy.
The National Weather Service Kansas City issued a cold weather advisory through 9 a.m. Monday. Forecasts showed that the metro would see a high of 7 degrees Monday.
While it’s not illegal to drive around with snow and ice on your car in Missouri, the law states that drivers are obligated to drive safely and not endanger themselves or anyone else on the road.
Here are a few tips on what to do and not do when it comes to removing snow and ice from your vehicle.
What should you to do when your car is covered in ice?
The American Automobile Association has a few tips on how to safely remove ice from your windshield:
- Start the engine
- Set the heater to defrost
- Adjust the airflow to recirculate
- Move the temperature control to full heat
A glass deicer spray can also help remove ice. Most hardware and some grocery stores will have a commercial deicer available for purchase. For those looking to make their own homemade solution, AAA recommends mixing one part isopropyl alcohol, two parts water and a few drops of dish soap.
As the ice melts, there are a few tools that can help expedite the process: a plastic scraper, windshield wipers, a rubber squeegee or a soft bristle brush.
What should you NOT do when your car is covered in ice?
AAA says to never use metal scrapers, as those can scratch the windshield glass and damage wiper blades.
Another no-go is using hot water, which can crack the glass by causing thermal shock. That same rule of thumb goes for any type of flame source, like lighters or torches.
In addition, AAA recommends not using a hammer or any other tool to break up ice on the windshield or surrounding glass.
Any of the options listed above could cause damage to the vehicle, thus creating new expenses you have to take care of.
This story was originally published January 26, 2026 at 1:03 PM.
