To stop a car window from fogging up immediately, turn on the defroster setting, run the air conditioning (A/C), set the heat to high, and switch off recirculated air to pull in dry outside air. Window fog occurs when warm, humid cabin moisture hits cold glass and reaches the dew point, causing liquid condensation to form on the interior surface.
Quick HVAC Settings for Immediate Defogging
The HVAC controls required to clear foggy glass depend directly on whether the outside weather is cold or hot.
Scenario Temperature Setting Air Conditioning (A/C) Air Source Fan Speed
Cold / Rain Outside High Heat ON (Acts as a dehumidifier) Fresh Air (Recirculate OFF) Maximum
Hot / Humid Outside Cool / Mild ON Fresh Air or Recirculate Medium
Rapid Winter Clear High Heat + Crack Windows ON Fresh Air Maximum