Misted-up windows: how to see through them again

Sometimes old tips are the best. There are three main ways to combat nasty fogging on the inside of car windows: clean, clean, clean. Even on seemingly clean windows, an invisible film of dirt forms whose dust particles bind moisture. So get some glass cleaner and household paper, clean and rub dry until it squeaks. Very important: Never wipe off existing fogging with a cloth, as this only redistributes the dust particles and leads to streaks.

In modern cars, the air conditioning helps enormously because it dehumidifies. So warm air to the windshield and air conditioning on. For the first few meters, open the side windows slightly if necessary: This allows moist air to escape instead of condensing. If none of this helps, the garage should be consulted. Many garages, such as those in the carXpert network, offer «air conditioning checks», which reveal overdue air conditioning filter changes, for example. If it is not the air conditioning system, there may be moisture in the car. Are the floor mats wet from shoes? Then dry the mats. If that doesn't help, perhaps moisture is penetrating somewhere. Then ask the garage.

Law demands a clear view
By law, the windshield, front side windows and rear-view mirror glass must be free of ice and fogging - completely (also remove loose snow from windows, mirror glass, roof, hoods, lights and license plates). And the rear window and rear side windows? Ideally, they should be clear, but not necessarily. Exception: The rear window must be clear on cars without right-hand exterior mirrors. If you drive with a «peephole», you will be fined and risk losing your driver's license - even if it is «only» fogging on the inside! Tip: It is true that the heating air in combustion engines warms up more quickly when driving. However, if ice and fogging are persistent, never drive off without visibility. If necessary, it's better to risk an 80-franc fine for leaving the car running while stationary than a crash: safety first.

The carXpert network
The name says it all: Behind the name carXpert is a Switzerland-wide network of over 280 independent quality garages and over 40 independent body stores - all experts for your car. In these multi-brand garages, every car feels at home with the qualified specialists because it is serviced and repaired according to the manufacturer's instructions with original equipment parts - guaranteed to keep the warranty! The premium network offers the highest level of expertise and service quality as well as, for example, assistance and used car warranties. The carXpert partners are also ideal contacts for topics such as vacation checks and starter batteries! Many offer a vacation check at reasonable fixed prices. This usually involves checking the starter battery. If a replacement is required carXpert partner a wide range from economy to high-tech premium batteries. carxpert.ch

*The content was created by the Autosprint editorial team in collaboration with carXpert. Cars of all makes are welcome in the carXpert garages and body shops.