Tips and tricks for tackling frozen car doors this winter
Winter can present numerous challenges for drivers. One common issue is efficiently opening car doors when faced with frozen locks and seals. How do you deal with these frosty obstacles? Here are a few strategies for handling frozen doors.
Winter encompasses beautiful landscapes and the everyday difficulties of keeping your car ready to drive. A frequent problem is frozen doors, which can significantly hinder your morning departures. How can you prevent car doors from freezing? To avoid such problems, it's helpful to start with simple preventive measures. Lubricating seals with glycerin is a proven method. Glycerin creates a protective layer on the rubber surface, making it more difficult for moisture to freeze.
Another effective method is coating the seals with technical petroleum jelly. It's inexpensive and provides reliable protection against 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, avoiding door freezing isn’t always possible, especially during severe frost. Chemical de-icers for locks and seals can be very helpful in such instances. These products are widely available at gas stations and supermarkets, and their application is quick and simple. Just gently spray the lock and seals; after a moment, the ice begins to melt, making it easier to open the door.
Another method for opening frozen car doors is using a warmed key. If de-icers are unavailable, gently heating the key with a lighter can help. Be cautious to avoid damaging any electronics. Hairdryers are also effective if a power source is nearby. Direct warm air at the frozen lock and seals to melt the ice using heat. Do not focus the heat on one spot for too long when employing a hairdryer.
Avoid using force when attempting to open frozen doors, as this may damage the handle or tear the seals. Instead, try pushing the doors in to help break the ice. Using hot water is also risky, as the temperature difference can damage windows and paintwork.
What to do if frozen doors still won't open?
If the doors still won't open despite trying various methods, consider entering the car through other doors or the trunk. Once inside, turn on the heating and wait a bit for the ice to melt, making it easier to open the driver's door.
