I've heard of this mechanism that will warm up your wiper fluid that will enable it to defrost your windshield!
Haven't found it though. I'd simply use alcohol. The normal rubbing Isopropyl stuff from the store. That's what we used to use on planes. We use glycol now.
Anyhoo (people not too fond of av-knowledge), that, and keep your chains handy.
I'm in Florida, though. I won't be much help, but I did have some winter driving experience in California. Really pretty.
Is there anyone who can help? Preferrably someone from up north?
