7 Signs You Need To Replace Your Windshield

The windshield is a key safety feature in a vehicle and protects your car against rain, wind, flying debris, and bugs. At some point, your windshield will suffer damage that may require replacement instead of repairs. Here are warning signs that you should replace your windshield.

1. Chips or Cracks

Cracks on a windshield can make it difficult for the driver to see the road ahead. This can be dangerous for situations that require quick decision-making. For example, you might not know whether the vehicles that are approaching are near or far off if the crack is in a spot that impairs your vision.

Over time, minor cracks might eventually mutate into a spider web-like crack that spreads throughout the windshield. Temperature changes and debris impacts can make the problem worse. Cracks and chips also weaken the glass, increasing the likelihood of the windshield shattering during a collision. If the windshield shatters, the driver can easily be ejected out of their seat and sustain more serious injuries.

2. White Haze

Windshields must be strong enough to withstand shattering during a collision or accident. As a result, windshield manufacturers usually add polyvinyl butyral or other plastics to make the windshield stronger. As the windshield ages, the plastic will start to wear and tear. The worn-out windshield plastic will have a white haze on the edges. 

As soon as you notice the white haze, replace the windshield immediately. If you wait too long, the reduced visibility can cause an accident.

3. Windshield Pitting

If you regularly drive on sandy or rocky roads, small pieces of rocks or gravel can strike your windshield. These rocks will eventually wear down the windshield, leading to pitting. The result is blinding glares that reduces the visibility of the road ahead. Not only is the blinding glare a danger to your eye health, but glares can also make it hard to drive on busy roads.

4. Discoloration

Contamination and the natural process of wear and tear can cause a swirling appearance to appear on your windshield. The problem can get worse if your windshield already has cracks. Dirt particles can accumulate inside the cracks and increase the swirling appearance whenever wipers move over the windshield.

If you drive your vehicle in places with high concentrations of chemicals, such as near an industrial area, the windshield might turn green or yellow. Usually, you can fix most of these problems in the short term through regular washing and simple repairs. But the discoloration might eventually make the windshield opaque. At this point, replacing the windshield is the only way to protect yourself on the road.

5. Missing Part of the Windshield

Flies, cockroaches, spiders, and water can enter the vehicle through a missing piece of your windshield. The problem usually starts with small pieces of the windshield falling off. If you don't replace the windshield, other parts of the vehicle can also become damaged.

6. Unhelpful Repairs

Simple repairs can fix most windshield problems. However, the problem might reappear soon after repairs. If you frequently have to repair your windshield, consider your expenses. Getting a new windshield might be cheaper than the cumulative cost of all repairs.

7. Improper Installation

New vehicles don't have a problem with windshield installation. However, an installation problem can arise if you recently replaced your windshield. If an amateur replaces your windshield or uses the wrong type of glass, the windshield can compromise your safety on the road. For instance, the windshield might have an even pressure that might cause chips and cracks. Replace your windshield but work with a professional auto mechanic with several years of experience.

The durability of your windshield depends on the quality of the glass and the installer's expertise. Low Price Auto Glass is a full-service auto glass shop that repairs and replaces car door glass, windshield, sunroof, and door mirrors. Contact us now for more information.