How to Dig a Car After a Blizzard

The weather outside is certainly horrendous, but you feel comfortable inside as the winter fury intensifies. That slight accumulation of fluffy white things is getting heavier and heavier; soon, you’ll have to put on your winter clothes and go digging your car.

Removing snow from a car may not seem like a big deal, but its finish and the health of your back are at stake. With what seems like a ton of snow in your car, you need to find a solid way to remove snow with the least amount of hassle. Let’s take a look at some step-by-step methods to clean your car:

Clean the exhaust pipe – First go to the back of your car to remove the snow from the exhaust pipe. This is important because as soon as you can, you will start your car.

Brush carefully – Hopefully your brush is not in your car, but if you are dealing with a lot of snow you will need to use something else. Be careful, because the bristles of a straw broom can scratch the paint. Instead, use a horsehair broom or the equivalent of brushing the driver’s door.

Get in – The moment you can open the driver’s door (or the passenger side and then slide out), do so. With the exhaust pipe clear, go ahead and start your car. Make sure the windshield wipers are off and turn the heater and defroster on high. This will help the snow melt faster.

From top to bottom – Clear your car from roof to trunk and hood down. You will likely have to deal with large amounts of snow, but resist the use of a shovel unless you can avoid paint. If you are working with someone else, they can start cleaning your driveway. If you work alone, continue to brush snow, including on the windshield, windows, grille, headlights, and other places. Gently remove snow and ice from the windshield wiper blades; they will be damaged if not cleaned properly. Use an ice scraper to remove the ice crust from the windshield.

Move your car – As soon as you can, put your car in gear and get it out of your parking space. It will be easier for you to clear the area if you have a clear patch of pavement to stand on. Turn off your car if you are going to work an additional 15 minutes or more to remove snow.

Inspect carefully – If the storm was particularly severe, snow may have gotten into the crevices. Open the hood and remove the snow when the engine is off. Do the same for the trunk or hatchback. If the sky has cleared, consider leaving the hood or trunk open to allow everything to dry.

Additional thoughts

Of course, preparing for a big storm can make your cleanup easier. That means putting your car in a garage or carport if available or moving it to the end of the driveway to make getting out easier and faster. Put the windshield wipers upright and remove the scraper and brush before the storm hits. Lastly, have enough melted ice on hand to help clear your driveway or parking spot.