Repairing cracks in the windshield is one of the most sought-after garage services. The high susceptibility to damage is explained by the position of the windscreen: Stones and other objects can be thrown up by the wheels of cars ahead. Tree branches can also scratch the glass. Cracks and fissures are sometimes caused by hail. Damage does not necessarily mean that you need to replace the glass. In some cases it can be repaired. Here we explain under what circumstances the part can be repaired and what the driver can do in the event of damage.
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Can I continue driving with a cracked windscreen?
Any damage to the windshield should be repaired as soon as it occurs. There are several reasons for this:
- Damage can be caused by exposure to vibrations and temperature changes become larger, making it impossible to repair cracks in the windshield. The component needs to be replaced.
- The presence of cracks is an obstacle to obtaining appropriate certification after an inspection. Operation of a vehicle is not permitted without such a certificate.
- Impaired visibility. Cracks, cracks and scratches obstruct the view, distort the image and are an irritating factor. All of this reduces the driver's attention and can lead to accidents. Additionally, if the damage is in the area of the driver's wiper, it may result in a fine.
Can I repair cracks in the windshield myself?
Although there are many stone chip repair kits available on the market, attempting a repair yourself without the necessary skills is not recommended. One should be aware that a number of conditions must be met in order to ensure the transparency of the repaired areas and restore the original strength of the product.
In the event of damage, take your car to a workshop. Auto mechanics have the skills and equipment needed to perform high-quality windshield repairs. For example, to prevent a crack in the windshield from propagating, holes should be drilled at the ends thereof. Use a tool gyro for this. In this case, you should carefully calculate your efforts so that you don't make the problem worse. Additionally, to accomplish this task, you need a special tool called a scriber, which allows you to remove small fragments from the damaged area. In addition, a special ultraviolet lamp is needed for the polymerization of many compounds. After treating the defect with the resin, the surface is usually ground, which in turn involves the use of appropriate equipment and special means.
When do I have to replace a windshield?
Not all damage can be repaired. Smaller ones can usually be repaired. You will need to replace the glass in the following circumstances:
- there is damage in the driver's field of vision;
- a crack is less than 25 cm from the edge of the windshield;
- the diameter of the defect is greater than 1.5 cm;
- a crack touches two or more edges of the windshield;
- small cracks covering more than 30% of the windscreen surface;
- puncture damage;
- Defects that impede the operation of other components (heating elements, light and rain sensors, etc.).
What should I do if there is damage visible on the windscreen?
Take the following precautions:
- Stop the car.
- To prevent dirt and moisture from entering the crack, which could make repair impossible, protect the damaged area with tape. Use paper or cellophane as insulation.
- Do not try to prevent a windshield crack from expanding by filling it with superglue or nail polish. This is useless and makes the situation even worse.
- Do not park your car in direct sunlight. With the increased temperatures in the vehicle cabin, the pressure on the windscreen also increases, which can lead to even greater damage.
- If the defect is in the driver's field of vision, adjust the seat height to improve visibility.
- Try to take your car to a specialist as soon as possible. Try to avoid bad roads and drive gently on the way to the workshop. Shock and vibration can cause the crack to widen.
Conclusion
Repairing cracks in the windshield will only help to restore its original appearance if it is done by experts. Furthermore, the faster you consult specialists, the higher the probability that the work will lead to an appropriate result. Our tips will help you reach a workshop without making the problem worse.