How to replace the windshield and how much you need
If you need to replace the windshield due to a shortage of stepping stones or vibes, it will be a big problem. Many people will change the glass for the first time. Not many people have experienced windshield replacement many times, so I’ll start with the basic information. If you think you may need to replace the windshield, please refer to it.
“How much is the replacement of the windshield?” I often get questions like this. It’s a legitimate question, as experiencing glass replacement is not so common. When replacing the windshield, “How much does it cost?” “Where should I replace it?” “Can I replace it myself?” “How much scratches do I need to replace?” There are many things I don’t understand.
If you are reading this article, you probably have some trouble with your car’s windshield, such as scratches, cracks, or cracks. In this article, we will introduce useful information for “those who are considering glass replacement for the first time (you)”.
Changing the windshield – what should you watch out for?
The windshield is part of the structural integrity of a motor vehicle. It protects the occupants from the consequences of an accident, especially in the event of a rollover. A damaged or cracked windshield is not only a sight to behold, it can also be a major safety concern.
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- How can a crack develop on the windshield?
- How big can a crack in the windshield be?
- A damaged windshield carries risks
- Driving with a damaged windshield
- Can a pane also burst?
- When does a damaged windshield need to be changed?
- The replacement of the windshield
- What does it cost to replace a windshield?
- Who pays for defective windshields?
- Can you install a windshield yourself?
- Advantages of replacing the windshield yourself
- Disadvantages of replacing the windshield
How can a crack develop on the windshield?
Of course, there are several reasons that can cause the windshield to crack or break. Most of the time, debris or parts of the load fall from a vehicle in front or something is thrown off the road. This scenario is all too common for drivers who regularly use freeways and other congested roads.
Other causes are
- poor installation of the windshield
- Temperature changes
- strong sunlight, heat
- Pressure changes
- Defects in the glass
- Hail, broken branches, ball
How big can a crack in the windshield be?
Whether or not a crack in your windshield can be repaired depends on three factors:
- Location of the crack
- Length of the crack
- Depth of the crack
The two most dangerous areas where your windshield can crack are in your line of sight and around the edges of the windshield. If a crack on the driver’s side is longer than a few inches, installing a new windshield is a must.
Even minor cracks or a deep crack along the edge of the windshield usually cannot be repaired. Damaging the perimeter of the windshield increases the risk of total windshield failure in the event of an accident. As a rule of thumb, if the damage is greater than a quarter of the windshield or has cracks longer than 9 cm, you should install a new windshield. If the damage is in the driver’s direct field of vision, it should not exceed the size of a two euro coin. Note that even small cracks and chips that are extremely deep may not be able to be repaired.
A damaged windshield carries risks
Driving with a cracked windshield increases the risk of accidents and not only endangers the lives of the passengers, but also the people in the vicinity. A damaged windshield, or one that has not been properly adjusted and glued in place, can pop out in a collision. The windshield also provides structural support for the car, which means that an improperly installed windshield can even cause the roof to collapse.
Specially profiled components, called pillars in cars, make a significant contribution to the stability of the vehicle. These are called A, B, C and D pillars and extend from the underbody to the roof of the car. The A-pillars are located in the front area of the vehicle. The A-pillar has been getting thinner and thinner for many years, which is why the windshield is more of a safety feature today than it was a few decades ago. If you do not properly replace a windshield, it will not adhere properly to the vehicle.
Driving with a damaged windshield
Small chips can easily be repaired by a reputable auto glass expert. However, if the damage is too great and is roughly the length and width of a credit card, the window must be replaced.
Standard windshields consist of two pieces of transparent glass that are glued in the middle with a vinyl resin. The vinyl resin holds the glass in place during an impact or collision and prevents broken glass from flying, which could result in death or serious injury. If the vinyl resin or the safety layer has cracked or flaked off, the pane can no longer withstand major collisions.
This means: driver and passengers are no longer optimally protected. In the event of a collision, flying shards of glass could result in death or serious injury. A large crack can also negatively affect the driver’s eyesight. Glare from sunlight or headlights then makes it difficult to see when driving.
Can a pane also burst?
Windshield glass is laminated, which means that the pane consists of two layers of glass with a thin plastic film between the layers. This construction, also known as “safety glass”, prevents the glass from falling apart into more dangerous shards. A cracked windshield usually breaks into smaller pieces.
When does a damaged windshield need to be changed?
If you are unsure whether a windshield should be repaired or replaced, contact a professional. An expert can help you decide whether a repair or an exchange is better for your vehicle. Extreme heat or cold can stress the point of impact and make it larger. Repairs are usually cheaper than a complete replacement.
In any case, damaged glass should be replaced as soon as possible. Small cracks or damage can grow larger over time, and large cracks can pose a hazard to you and your passengers.
You should make an appointment with an auto glass specialist to repair broken or cracked glass in good time. Many companies offer on-site repairs and dispatch a technician to come to your home or office. Before choosing a provider, compare multiple windshield replacement offers to ensure you are paying the right price for the service.
The replacement of the windshield
Small cracks or damage can often be repaired by an auto glass expert for less than 150 USD. However, if the damage is too severe, you will need a qualified professional to replace the windshield.
Of course, you can also replace the windshield yourself. Although replacements usually take less than an hour, it is often advisable to find a professional who has the necessary experience and the right tools. The technician will first replace the rubberized weatherstrip that holds the windshield to the frame of the vehicle along the glass edges.
New generation vehicles use windshields that are glued to the body. The old front window must first be cut out. Then the assembly point and the glass are cleaned and prepared for inserting the new pane. If necessary, the new windshield and the new molded parts can be reinstalled in the vehicle with a urethane adhesive.
What does it cost to replace a windshield?
Glass damage caused by falling rocks is covered in full by the partial or fully comprehensive insurance in many cases. It does not matter whether you can repair the window or have to replace it. The costs depend on the vehicle type and the specifications of the manufacturer. You often have to recalibrate various assistance systems after replacing the windshield.
Who pays for defective windshields?
Comprehensive car insurance coverage can help pay for your windshield to be repaired or replaced if it has been damaged by a stone or broken, for example. Another coverage called full glass coverage may also be available with your insurance company to protect you from the cost of repairing or replacing a windshield.
Full coverage can help replace or repair a damaged windshield if it is struck by a rock or other object. This insurance also helps cover damage caused by hazards such as fire, theft, falling objects, or hail.
Can you install a windshield yourself?
If you have a crack in your windshield, it’s important to get it repaired right away. Windshields are designed to protect you from the dangers of the road; even a small crack can impair these safety features of the vehicle. When considering replacing the windshield yourself, consider the advantages and disadvantages of.
Advantages of replacing the windshield yourself
- Costs – If you are not insured against falling rocks and have the right tools, it can be financially worthwhile to replace or repair the window yourself.
- Your own schedule – you can carry out the repair on any date.
- Acquiring New Skills – If you’re looking for new challenges, replacing the front glass can be a satisfying task. Disadvantages of replacing the windshield
- Lack of experience – Replacing a windshield is a technically very demanding activity. You should also have the right tools.
- Apply Proper Pressure – Applying too much pressure can break the windshield during installation. If you don’t apply enough, it may not stick.
- Time – Many glass repair workshops change the pane during your working hours.
- Insurance – Damage to the windshield does not affect the annual insurance premium. Self-exchange is more expensive.
- Safety – An incorrectly installed windscreen cannot fulfill its safety function. In the event of an accident, increased personal injury can occur.
- Technology – If a windscreen is not installed correctly, this can affect GPS, windscreen heating or antennas.
- Guarantee – You receive a guarantee from the manufacturer and the repair shop for a professionally carried out repair.