The wind is blowing and the frigid temperatures feel like they're dropping even lower. You reach out, grab the handle of your car door and pull. Nothing happens. Frozen car doors are a recurring problem in the northern climates, but getting them unfrozen isn't difficult when you know what to do.
If you use hot water, you risk shattering the car window. The sudden change in temperature causes the glass to expand and possibly crack.
Use a remote starter to turn on your car. Allow the engine to heat up the interior sufficiently to thaw the door.
Use a portable hairdryer if you have an extension cord that can reach an outlet. Direct the hot air on the cracks of the door, especially close to the handle.
Try another door. Not all of them will necessarily be frozen You may find it easier to open the stuck door from inside, especially after the car has had a chance to warm up.
Give yourself some leverage with a product like Free's Ease, a hook-like device that slides into the crack of your door and helps you pull it open.
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Try the de-icing fluid you use for your windshield. Pour it onto the door, wait a few minutes and gently pull on the handle.
If you cannot garage your car overnight, place a tarp over it. That should keep ice from forming on your doors.
