How to Prevent Your Vehicle’s Windows From Fogging Up

Car windows fog up when there is a difference between the humidity of the outside and inside of the car. Not only can this be annoying, but fogged up windows can decrease visibility resulting in unsafe driving conditions.

Tools & Materials

Instructions

Anytime the temperature of your windows is below the dew point outside, the moisture inside your vehicle’s cabin will condense on the windows and cause them to fog up. If you’re not completely comfortable doing the job yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.

Cleaning the inside of your windshield

Step 1: Clean the Inside of Your Windshield

Start by cleaning the inside of your windshield. This is the first step to preventing your vehicle’s windows from fogging up. This reduces surface area for the moisture to settle on.

Adjust A/C & Defrost Settings

Step 2: Adjust A/C and Defrost

One thing you can try to eliminate window fog is heating up your car window. You can do this by turning on your heater and front defrost.

You can also try cracking a window. This will even out the humidity and temperature between the inside and outside of your car.

Turning on your A/C

Another good practice is to turn on your air conditioning. This will decrease the humidity in your car’s cabin which should reduce window condensation. Continue running your A/C and defrost to prevent fog from returning.

Apply Rain-X Anti-Fog Treatment

Step 3: Apply Rain-X Anti-Fog Treatment

Apply a small amount of anti-fog to your 100% cotton cloth or paper towels.

Wiping the vehicle windshield

Wipe each window thoroughly, one section at a time. It’s important to use the anti-fog ONLY on the inside of your windows.

Once you’ve wiped the entire inside surface of the windows you need to treat, do a final wipe with the dry side of your cloth to buff out any streaks.

Reapply as needed, and you should be fog-free.

Additional Resources

The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured.