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During winter, some drivers still try risky, even dangerous, methods to remove frost and ice from their vehicles. A technical instructor from the international network of car service centers Fit Service, who goes by Sergei Ponomarev, shared these concerns with socialbites.ca. He emphasized that quick fixes can backfire and threaten both the car and its occupants. Ponomarev has years of hands-on experience diagnosing why so many improvised de-icing techniques fail and can cause lasting damage.

One questionable tactic involves placing a small country-style electric stove under the car. The idea is simple: put a heater plate under the oil pan to warm the engine so it will start more easily. Yet the same warming can occur unexpectedly at speed. When the oil heats rapidly, it can boil, burn, and lose its protective properties, which may lead to serious engine damage and costly repairs. This is not a safe shortcut for anyone attempting to start a frozen engine, especially in Canada and the United States where winter temperatures can swing dramatically from day to night. The expert warns that such a method risks uneven heating, which stresses engine components and can trigger failures that are expensive to fix.

Another risky practice is using a hair dryer to heat the intake manifold. Modern engines often feature plastic components that are not meant to withstand direct heat. The heat from a hair dryer can melt plastic parts, leading to leaks or blockages inside the intake system. Even if the exterior seems fine, internal damage can emerge once the engine runs, resulting in reduced performance or stalling. Sergei Ponomarev emphasizes that the intake system is designed to tolerate cold starts and gradual warming, not high heat applied with improvised devices.

Boiling water remains a stubborn habit for some drivers. They pour hot liquid over the windshield to clear ice or into the intake manifold to force a faster thaw. The abrupt temperature change can warp or deform the windshield frame and even loosen or crack the cylinder head. Aluminum manifolds, common in many vehicles, are particularly prone to cracking under sudden thermal stress. The warning is clear: the risks outweigh any perceived quick fix, especially when safer, proper de-icing methods are available.

Electric heat guns are another frequently used tool in winter mornings. When used improperly, decorative elements, connectors, and wiring nearby can melt, causing short circuits or fires. Fuel lines are also at risk if temperatures rise enough to soften or damage them. The potential for a fuel leak leading to a fire makes this method dangerous and unacceptable for routine de-icing tasks. The prudent choice is to avoid such improvisations and rely on manufacturer-approved methods for warming a vehicle while preserving fuel system integrity.

Open flames, including gas burners, are strictly forbidden. A car’s engine contains flammable liquids such as fuel and oil, and even a tiny leak can ignite with the slightest spark. The combination of heat sources and winter conditions creates a hazardous scenario that should never be attempted. Vehicle owners in North America should recognize that any method introducing open flame near a running or recently started engine is a recipe for disaster and has no place in responsible winter vehicle maintenance.

In light of these dangers, reliable winter practices include pre-warming the vehicle with a remote start where available, using approved de-icing products, and following the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines. Regular maintenance, including checking antifreeze levels, battery health, and heating system function, can reduce winter starting problems. A cautious approach to de-icing protects both the engine and the occupants, ensuring safer trips on cold roads. Sergei Ponomarev, reflecting on common mistakes, urges drivers to choose methods backed by evidence and safety standards rather than quick, risky stunts. The overall takeaway is clear: safety should never be compromised for convenience in frigid weather.