Have a Cracked Windshield? Here’s What You Need to Do

Have you ever returned to your parked car after an appointment, a day at work, or an errand to find that there’s a big crack in your windshield? It’s a dismaying sight, to be sure, largely because it means that you will have to spend time and money getting it fixed.

However, it is important to address a cracked windshield right away before it leads to other problems. Read on to learn how to deal with this situation.

What Causes Cracks?

There are several reasons that your windshield might have developed a crack. These include:

  • Tree branches or tree nuts falling onto the car
  • Debris kicked up from another vehicle while you are driving
  • A piece of gravel impacting the windshield as you drive on a gravel road
  • Extreme temperature changes
  • Changes in air pressure
  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Poor quality glass
  • Poor windshield installation procedures

Depending on the cause and the structural integrity of your windshield itself, there may be only a small chip, pit, or crack. There could be a large spiderweb of cracks.

Why Repair a Cracked Windshield?

If your windshield only has minor damage, and it doesn’t interfere with your line of vision as the driver, you may be tempted to leave it as-is. There are plenty of other ways to spend your money that are much more fun.

This isn’t a good idea, though. For starters, a small crack or chip can often be repaired. This will prevent the crack from spreading and avoid the necessity of having the entire windshield replaced.

Second, driving with a cracked windshield is illegal in most states. You could be stopped and ticketed. And if you don’t take care of it, your car or truck will fail inspection.

Perhaps the most important factor is the safety of you and your passengers. A damaged windshield is a weak windshield. If you get into an accident, you are more likely to be injured by the flying glass. The airbags might not deploy correctly, as well.

Additionally, windshields help provide support in the event of a rollover accident. Without that support, a car crash could result in serious injuries or even death.

Can You DIY It?

You’ve probably seen DIY windshield repair kits for sale. Yes, you can use one of these as a short-term fix until you get to the auto body shop, but they are not recommended as a permanent solution.

Instead, take your car to the professionals and have the job done right. It really doesn’t take that long, and many shops offer while-you-wait or same-day services. Not only is it a relatively quick fix, but most insurance companies will cover the cost of a repair or replacement.

In other words, you’ve really got no excuse!

Don’t Let a Crack Stop You In Your Tracks

Dealing with a cracked windshield is an inconvenience, but it’s a minor one. Issues like these are part and parcel of being a driver and owning your own car. In the majority of instances, you can get the repair or replacement taken care of right away and at no cost to you.

Does your vehicle need a little TLC? Give us a call or fill out our contact form today!