Za Rulem subscribers on Viber were invited to share how they handle frosty car glass, and their responses illuminate a mix of practical hacks and common routines. Across 5338 votes, roughly 15 percent favored electric glass heating, a feature included in many modern vehicles as part of the winter package. A quarter of respondents said they start the car and wait for the glass to warm with the engine, allowing the heated windows to gradually clear. An equal portion chose to remove ice with a scraper, preferring a manual approach from the outset.
In a landscape where cold starts are routine for many drivers in the United States and Canada, the most popular choice emerged clearly: 34 percent reported using remote or auto start to enter a preheated cabin with heated glass already clearing. It is worth noting that warming up a vehicle in a yard or driveway carries penalties in some regions, with fines ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles in those contexts. These warnings underscore the balance drivers strike between convenience and regulatory compliance when preparing a car for winter driving.
Readers’ comments accompanying the poll offer surprising and practical twists. One contributor joked that a washing machine can be surprisingly effective for clearing glass, a playful exaggeration with a hint of real-world improvisation. Another user notes that placing a lid over the windshield in the evening helps reduce frost buildup by morning. In northern climates, some readers described vehicles kept warm under blankets or heavy coverings to preserve interior warmth and protect components overnight. The overall sentiment is that preparation habits vary widely, yet the goal remains the same: a clear view and a ready ride with minimal delay.
One comment from Yuri captures a common reality: a private garage can dramatically simplify winter driving by removing exposure to freezing temperatures altogether. In several regions, where cold snaps are common, homeowners may rely on stored warmth or controlled environments to ensure vehicles start reliably and windows defrost quickly. The poll results reflect a broader trend toward blending technology with practical routines to tackle ice and frost efficiently.
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Participants are invited to cast their votes in the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix to help identify the standout car innovations of the year. This community-driven initiative mirrors how readers in North America engage with automotive news and product launches, turning user input into a shared set of recommendations for new models and tech features. As thanks for their time, the survey offers giveaways to respondents who complete the questionnaire, with a window for entry extending through the final days of the promotion period.
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