If you normally park your car outside, the snow, sleet and freezing rain can cause an inconvenient and frustrating problem: the freezing of your car doors. Not only does this make you late to your destination, but it’s also not a fun way to start the day.
With some preparation and a few hacks, you will be able to get the car door open and be on your way in no time. Here are a few things we recommend:
Avoid the elements if possible
When ice and freezing temperatures are predicted, park your car in a garage or under cover if possible. Not everyone has access to that option, so the next best thing would be using a car cover or tarp. This would minimize the amount of moisture from snow and rain that causes the car door parts to freeze.
Inspect the rubber gasket
The rubber gasket is the soft seal that runs along the edge of your car doors and windows. When this gasket is torn, loose, cracked or missing, it allows moisture to seep in and freeze. Inspect these rubber gaskets to make sure they are in good condition, and have them replaced if they are not.
Clean and lubricate the rubber gasket
If your car’s rubber gaskets are dirty, the dirt and debris can prevent the car door from sealing shut. This allows moisture to seep in and freeze your door. Clean your gaskets with warm soapy water, and dry them completely (so they don’t freeze while you are cleaning them). Be sure to clean the gasket around the vehicle’s frame as well as the gasket on the door itself.
As an additional precaution, spray or wipe down your gasket with a silicone lubricant product and a microfiber cloth. This will repel moisture, which helps prevent water accumulation and freezing. Silicone lubricant is available at auto parts stores and is inexpensive, but if you can’t get there, cooking spray works also. Test it on an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it doesn’t damage your paint.
Insert a towel for leverage
If your car door is prone to freezing problems, it may make sense to be proactive. Close a towel in the door just above the window, between the car door and frame. This will give you another point to pull from if your car door is frozen shut. The last thing you want to do is snap the door handle off.
Use a de-icer
You can make it yourself — two thirds rubbing alcohol and one third water — or use a windshield de-icer. Spray it along the seams of the car door to break up the ice. For stubborn ice, you may need to break out the extension cord and hair dryer. Blow the hot, high heat along the seams until you can open the door.
SFM Insurance wants to save you the headaches and frustrations the winter weather can cause on your cars and in your life. Contact us today for more information on the many auto policies we provide. As an independent agency with access to 16-independent carriers, we can find what you need at an affordable price. Visit our website today to get in touch, or call us at 937-382-2546. For more tips and our latest updates, visit us on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn!
