METHODS TO FOR OPENING A FROZEN CAR DOOR
Luckily, most methods for opening a frozen car door are quite simple, and many involve items you likely have around the house.
Elbow Grease
First, try applying some extra force to open your car door. Depending on how thick the ice is, you may be able to pull it open. Bang around the perimeter of the door to break up the ice. You can also try leaning into the door to break up the ice using your body weight. Be careful not to push too hard.
Remote Start
If you’re able to start your car remotely, you can turn it on and let it warm up on its own. Newer cars with key fobs often have this function. After running the car for a few minutes, try opening the door again.
DE-ICER
If you have some de-icer handy, like this product, spray it on the door and into the lock to melt the ice. Some de-icing products come with a straw to help the product penetrate deeper into the lock. If you don’t have any de-icer, try a mixture of two parts vinegar and one part water. Apply it the same way as the de-icer, avoiding the windows to prevent discoloration from the vinegar.
ICE SCRAPER
Using an ice scraper, chip away at any ice that’s collected on the door handle or lock. Avoid using a metal scraper so you don’t scratch the car’s paint. It’s a good idea to keep an ice scraper in your vehicle throughout the winter. If you’re iced out, however, it’s more helpful to have a small portable one that you can keep at home or in your bag. Alternatively, you can try breaking up the ice with a hard plastic object, like a credit card.
WARM WATER
Another way to open a frozen car door is to pour lukewarm water over the lock and/or door frame. Make sure the water is warm, not boiling. Boiling water can damage the paint or cause your car window to shatter. Dry the door off afterward to prevent re-freezing.
HAIR DRYER
If you have a cordless hair dryer or one you can plug into an extension cord, you can blow-dry your car door to unstick it. Hold the dryer about six inches away from the door and move it side to side for a few minutes until the ice thaws.
PREVENTING FROZEN CAR DOORS
With certain prevention methods, you can avoid struggling with frozen car doors in the first place.
Covering up your car in winter can help stop its doors from freezing. If you can’t park your car in a garage or under a shelter overnight, put a car cover or tarp over it to protect it from snow and ice. You can also place a plastic bag or unrolled towel between the door and the frame before closing it to prevent it from getting stuck.
Another useful tip is to apply WD-40 to your car door and lock. Do this at the beginning of winter before the temperatures get too cold. You can also use the nozzle of the can to inject the product into keyholes. You can find WD-40 on our website An alternative is to apply rubbing alcohol over the door lock at least once a week during winter.
If your car doors are constantly freezing shut, inspect the rubber gasket. This is the soft seal that runs around the edge of your car’s doors and windows. If the gasket is torn, loose, cracked, or missing, more moisture can seep in, causing the doors to freeze. Clean, lubricate, or replace the gasket as needed to prevent the doors from getting stuck. A silicone lubricant works best for this.
WINTER MAINTENANCE
Winter weather calls for specific car maintenance. To keep your vehicle running smoothly, follow this winter maintenance checklist. You can also find tips for winter DIYing here.
Taking care of your car in winter is important, but it’s also important to take care of yourself! Pick up some hand warmers to keep in your pockets or gloves when working on your car out in the snow. A bag of salt for the sidewalk and/or your driveway is essential to prevent anyone from slipping on ice in front of your house.
If you have any questions about dealing with the effects of winter on your vehicle, visit a SHENSHUAI Auto Parts store for some expert advice.
