It happens to a lot of people-;they’re just driving down the road, and a rock bounces up and hits the windshield, leaving a crack. Some wonder if it’s unsafe to drive a car with a cracked windshield, while others don’t see windshield damage as a big concern. However, today’s windshields are more than just windows; they’re an important part of a vehicle’s structure. However, windshields aren’t perfect, and may need occasional replacement due to damage.
Why Should a Driver Replace a Windshield?
There are many reasons to Browse Site and consider Auto Glass Installation Minneapolis MN. For one, drivers can be ticketed if police believe the car’s windshield to be unsafe, and in some cases, the cost of the ticket can equal that of a new windshield. The most important issue, though, is that even a small crack could cause the windshield to shatter, which puts drivers and passengers at risk. Car owners should follow the below tips to keep themselves safe with a cracked windshield.
Tips to Minimize Damage and Stay Safe
- Evaluate the damage. Repairing a crack is cheaper than replacing the entire windshield; usually, repairs are possible if the crack is less than a foot long, or if a chip is less than the size of a quarter. If the damaged area is larger, or if it obstructs the driver’s view, the car shouldn’t be driven until the windshield is replaced.
- Keep the damage from spreading. The driver can temporarily put tape over the damaged area, as long as it doesn’t block his or her view. Tape will keep dirt and moisture out until repairs can be done.
- Minimize exposure to temperature extremes. Using a car’s defroster in winter, or using the AC during the summer can weaken a cracked windshield.
- If a driver plans to have the windshield repaired, they shouldn’t wash the car or use the wipers. If fluid gets into the affected area, any repairs done will be less effective.
- Try to minimize shocks to the car, whether it’s when shutting the door or while driving. Any sharp or sudden impact can cause a crack to spread.
Auto Glass Installation Minneapolis MN requires training, and specialists offer quality work at competitive prices. In many cases, the shop will come to a driver’s job or home to do the repairs if the crack is sufficiently large to make driving a hazard.
