ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — When mountain mornings dip below freezing, Asheville drivers know the struggle of scraping thick ice from their car windows before work. Fortunately, a few easy habits — and some local know-how — can save time, protect your vehicle and keep you safer on the road this winter.

1. Park smart and face east: Whenever possible, park your car facing the rising sun. Morning sunlight can help thaw your windshield naturally, especially during those crisp but clear Western North Carolina mornings. Parking under a carport or using a windshield cover also helps prevent frost buildup overnight.

2. Use a homemade de-icer spray: Mix three parts vinegar to one part water, or two parts rubbing alcohol to one part water, and spray it on your windows before bedtime. These solutions lower the freezing point of water, helping prevent frost and ice from forming in the first place. Avoid hot water — it can crack cold glass.

3. Lift your wipers and check your washer fluid: Lift wiper blades off the glass when frost is expected so they don’t freeze in place. Also, top off with winter-grade washer fluid that won’t freeze in the reservoir. In cold climates like Asheville’s, this simple step keeps your visibility clear when slush or salt spray hit the windshield.

4. Keep your doors and locks from freezing shut: Spray a little WD-40 or a silicone lubricant into door seals and keyholes before the first big freeze. This repels moisture and prevents your doors from sticking shut overnight.

5. Don’t forget your battery and tires: Cold weather weakens car batteries and reduces tire pressure. Have your battery tested at a local shop, and check tire pressure weekly — especially when overnight lows dip below 25 degrees. Properly inflated tires help with traction on icy roads and improve fuel economy.