Expert reveals hack using compass to help defrost car and even save fuel

MOTORISTS could save money on petrol if they use a common navigation tool to defrost their windshields, experts say.

The use of a compass can help with more than just directions, according to the car experts at choosemycar.com.

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If drivers park their vehicle facing the direction of the sunrise each morning, they could save time and money on their car bills.

The sun on an icy windshield helps defrost the car quickly, and save valuable time on frosty mornings.

The sun rises in the east each morning, so to find out which direction the sunrise will be, use a pocket compass or a compass on your smartphone.

Motorists using the hack won’t have to leave their car running as long while their windscreen defrosts, which will save fuel.

Though the tip is helpful, not all mornings begin with bright sun, and many aren’t able to park facing eastwards.

Experts also recommend other money and time saving tricks to defrost your car and save fuel.

Reversing into a parking space can help save fuel: when an engine remains warm, it uses less fuel to reheat.

Putting down sun visors while running the defrost setting on a car can also help speed the process along, as one mum revealed on TikTok.

“If you have a windshield that is frosted over – make sure to put your visors down, so it stops the airflow and it creates a faster defrost on your windshield,” mum Sara said in the viral video.

Drivers can also use an unorthodox method to prevent ice from forming in the first place: an onion.

First, cut an onion in half, and rub it over the windshield (when there is no ice on it).

The onion will help prevent frost and snow from sticking, and save time defrosting in the morning.

The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations Highway Code states that ‘windscreens and windows MUST be kept clean and free from  obstructions to vision’.

If you fail to clear windows properly, it can lead to a fixed penalty fine of up to £2,500 or three penalty points.

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