Steamed up car windows are annoying and increase the risk of accidents. Clearing the windshield of fog or frost is critical especially when you have a vehicle full of the most precious people in your life.
The windows in the car mist up when moisture from the air condenses on the car windows. The problem worsens in autumn and winter as cold air can store less moisture. The result: it condenses on the cold windows. The moisture can be loaded into the car via clothing, breathing air, but also broken seals or clogged drains. It is important that the windows are freed from moisture before departure.
With the Climatronic climate control system, clearing the windows is easy. Just press the defrost button on the dash, air is directed up toward the windshield and the air conditioning is activated to dry the air.
The owners manual also recommends that you turn the temperature setting to high for the quickest defrost or defogging. When the windshield is clear, press the AUTO button.
Defogging side-mirrors
If the outside mirrors are fogged or covered with frost, switch on the outside mirror heating using the rotary knob on the driver’s door.
Note the recirculation switch: If the air recirculation function is switched on, the windows will remain fogged up because only the humid interior air is circulated. So make sure that the air circulation switch is not active.
Cabin air filter
Another prime suspect for fogged windows in cars is the cabin air filter. The filter should be replaced about every 10,000 miles. A dirty filter reduces the air throughput of the ventilation and air conditioning system. Important when changing: choose a filter with activated carbon. This neutralizes pollutants as well as pollen.
