6 Warning Signs That You Need to Repair or Replace Your Windshield

Your car's windshield will most likely experience damage at one point or another. If you don't react quickly, the damage could worsen and require costly repairs or replacements. Therefore, you should know the warning signs of a damaged windshield. Learn what to look out for.



1. Windshield Chips

A windshield chip occurs when an object hits your windshield and causes parts of the glass layer to peel off. Most windshield chips are not serious problems and only require minor repairs. Nevertheless, some windshield chips can affect an extensive part of the windshield. In this case, a new windshield may be the only option.

Repair your windshield as soon as you notice small windshield chips. Early intervention prevents the chips from becoming windshield cracks.

2. Windshield Cracks

Windshield cracks are typically larger than chips. The cracks appear as a line and indicate the separation of glass pieces. These cracks expand with time and may cause a portion of the windshield to fall off.

Temperature changes are one of the main causes of windshield cracks. Exposure to temperature fluctuations happens when intensive sun rays and frigid air come in contact with the windshield. The exposure causes the windshield to experience uneven changes in size. Continual contraction and expansion cause the windshield to crack.

Most windshield cracks are very minuscule in the beginning. Gradually, tiny debris and objects will start to accumulate in the cracks. The particles will exert pressure on the glass and cause the cracks to expand and become bigger.

The windshield cracks will become even bigger if you drive on bad roads with potholes and bumps. So, schedule a windshield repair as soon as you notice cracks. 

3. White Haze on the Edges

Many windshields use plastic material to boost the glass's strength during collisions. The plastic layer can start to wear off and peel away. Peeling off causes a white haze to appear on the edges of the windshield. Call a windshield professional as soon as you notice the white haze.

4. Intense Windshield Pitting

Windshield pitting will happen as the windshield ages. The pitting can also happen when the windshield comes into contact with certain chemicals, sand, and dust. Intense rainfall and extreme temperature fluctuations may also lead to pitting.

Windshield pitting reduces the driver's view and increases the likelihood of road accidents. For example, the windshield can reflect light that blinds the driver. As a consequence, a windshield professional should repair or replace the windshield when pitting happens.

5. Missing Windshield Parts

Cracks, collisions, and chips can cause parts of the windshield to fall off. Some vehicle owners may respond to this problem by sealing the affected area with tape or clear tarps. However, such quick fixes only serve to cause more damage to the remaining parts of the windshield.

A missing windshield can affect the structural integrity of the vehicle. The vehicle could start to sag and may lose its alignment. Possible solutions are to replace the missing part immediately or get a new windshield.

6. Ineffective Windshield Installation

Improper windshield installation is rare but has severe consequences. The installation mishap can happen when auto technicians install windshields without protective gloves. As a result, the glass adhesive fails to attach effectively to the vehicle. 

Loose adhesives and fittings are a sign of poor windshield installation. The solution is to have a windshield expert reinstall the windshield.

A strong windshield enhances your car's clarity and prevents road accidents. Therefore, schedule a windshield repair or replacement once you notice any warning signs. Work with a windshield professional, like Auto Glass Experts. We offer mobile and in-shop windshield repair and replacement services. Contact us if you have any windshield problems.