How to Put On a Windshield Cover for Snow (and Take It Off Without a Mess)
JupiterVehicles is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
A windshield snow cover only saves you time if it stays in place overnight and comes off cleanly in the morning. This guide shows how to put one on so wind can’t lift it, and how to take it off without dumping snow into the car.
Table of Contents
What You Need
- A windshield snow cover sized for your vehicle
- Its storage bag
- An ice scraper and brush for the other windows
- Universal Compatibility: (69"x42") covers entire windshield including your wiper blades. Windshield snow cover fits most cars, SUV's, Van and Trucks. It can be folded into a compact size for carry and store in pouch when not in use
- Premium Quality: EcoNour windshield cover is made of Heavy duty 600D oxford and weather proof cloth with soft inner material preventing from scratches on windscreen. Protects from snow, ice, rain, sleet, slush, water, hail, snowstorms as well as other winter debris & weather
- Easy Use Snow Cover : Place the flaps inside the driver and passenger side and close the doors. Place the high durable elastic strap around the side view mirror on both the sides covering entire windshield
- Experience a Secured Design: The side panel flap act as an anti-theft for your windshield snow cover and prevent being blown away by the wind. The elastic straps help the snow cover to stay in place preventing from harsh winds
- All-Weather Convenient Utility: Our waterproof car cover prevents frost, snow or ice piled up on the windshield in winter, blocks UV Rays and keep cool in summer, block dust in spring and keep away from fallen leaves in autumn providing protection for all weather
How to Put On a Windshield Cover for Snow
- Start with clear glass. Brush off any existing snow or ice and make sure the windshield is fairly dry.
- Decide on the wipers. Most covers go over the wipers so they don’t freeze to the glass. Leave them down unless your cover’s instructions say otherwise.
- Unfold the cover with the soft or marked side facing the glass.
- Center it over the windshield so it covers the glass edge to edge.
- Tuck the door flaps inside the front doors and close the doors on them. This is the main thing that stops wind and thieves.
- Attach mirror loops or pockets over the side mirrors if your cover has them.
- Secure any straps or magnets. Place magnets gently, without sliding them across paint.
- Smooth out wrinkles so snow doesn’t collect in folds.
How to Take It Off Without a Mess
- Brush off heavy snow from the cover first if it’s deep.
- Release the mirror loops.
- Open the doors and pull the flaps out.
- Fold the cover inward from both sides toward the middle, trapping the snow on the outside of the fold.
- Lift it away from the car and shake off snow away from the doors.
- Let it dry before folding it into the bag if you can. Store it in the trunk on a mat, not on seats.
If the Cover Is Frozen to the Glass
Don’t yank it. Start the car and run the defroster for a few minutes to loosen it, then peel it slowly. Pulling a frozen cover can tear it.
Winter Safety Reminders
NHTSA’s winter driving tips recommend carrying a snow shovel, broom and ice scraper, checking that defrosters and wipers work, and keeping your exhaust pipe clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup if you’re stuck. Clear all windows, lights and the roof before driving, not just the windshield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I put the windshield wipers up or down with a snow cover?
Usually down, under the cover, so they don’t freeze to the glass. Follow your cover’s instructions.
How do I keep a windshield cover from blowing away?
Close the doors on the side flaps and use the mirror loops or straps.
Should the windshield be dry before putting on a cover?
As dry as practical. Water on the glass can freeze the cover to it.
Can I use a windshield cover in rain?
Yes, but freezing rain can freeze the cover. Run the defroster before removing it.
The Bottom Line
To put on a windshield cover for snow, clear the glass, center the cover over the windshield and wipers, close the doors on the flaps, and attach the mirror loops. In the morning, fold it inward to trap the snow and shake it off away from the car. See do windshield covers work for what to expect.
