Tips

Should you repair or replace when your windshield has a crack?

These cracks not only compromise the aesthetic appeal but also pose potential risks to driving safety. So, when faced with a cracked car windshield, should you opt for a replacement or repair?

Administrator

26 February, 2024

In reality, knowing how to repair a cracked or chipped windshield is not only time and cost-saving but also crucial for your safety and the safety of other road users. However, we recommend taking your vehicle to professional auto repair shops to assess the situation before making any decisions to repair or replace the windshield.

Did you know that the windshield of a car provides up to 40% of the overall structural strength for the car roof? The support that the windshield provides to prevent the roof from collapsing or caving in during a rollover is vital for overall safety – for this reason, it is important to have a high-quality windshield that is structurally sound and undamaged.

Various types of windshield damage

There are many different types of damage that can occur on a windshield due to various causes. Below are some typical cracks on windshields.

Some typical cracks appearing on the windshield according to the level of danger from low to high.

Surface crack: Sometimes, small pieces of rock hitting your car windshield will only chip a small piece of glass, leaving a mark that is almost negligible. This is the most common type and may seem insignificant but can lead to more significant damage later on.

Stress crack: Stress cracks can occur due to severe temperature changes. Stress cracks are often long and usually start at the edge of the windshield. If you are dealing with ice on the windshield causing it to contract and expand when the weather warms up, then a small crack can easily spread to a larger one.

Spider crack: Spider cracks form around the center of the windshield or the outer edge of the windshield at least 5 cm or more. Because the center of the windshield is more vulnerable to damage, spider cracks can spread rapidly.

Edge crack: These are cracks that start from or around the edges of the windshield. Cracks at the edges can spread throughout the windshield and are often very crooked.

Bullseye: A bullseye crack can be caused by a spherical object like a small rock hitting the car windshield. They resemble a pit within the glass and can be quite deep.

Half-moon crack: A half-moon crack is also caused by a circular object hitting the windshield of a car while you are driving. The cracks often form around the semicircular fragments, but they still cause aesthetic damage and can impede visibility while also affecting the structure of the windshield.

Starburst: Starburst cracks are small star-shaped cracks. These cracks can spread and develop into larger windshield cracks if not repaired in the future.

Should you repair a small crack in the windshield?

Small cracks usually don’t immediately cause problems or damage, but if left for a long time, these cracks can affect safety while driving. The car body has to flex during movement and this puts pressure on the windshield. The same thing happens when your car comes into contact with temperature changes. In cold air weather, outside ice and heat increase from inside the cabin will cause expansion and contraction, easily leading to cracks on the windshield.

Therefore, owners of cars facing the aforementioned issues should immediately repair or replace them as soon as possible to avoid larger cracks in the future.

When you see multiple small cracks on the windshield, many people will request a new windshield replacement. But this is not necessarily the best solution. Replacement is only necessary when the glass has been broken too large. So, if the length of the crack is less than 15 cm, repairing with glass welding will be more successful. The larger the crack, the lower the success rate of repair.

Of course, if the damage is too extensive causing the windshield to be broken rather than just damaged, you cannot repair it and it needs to be replaced. Below is a quick guide to knowing when you should replace instead of trying to repair or repair the windshield: If the damage reduces your visibility at any level; If the crack is longer than 15 cm or the starburst/bull’s eye cracks are larger than 3 inches; If the damage is near a corner or edge of the windshield and the crack has a certain depth.

According to VTC.vn

Frequently asked questions

It depends on the size, location, and severity of the crack. Small cracks or chips smaller than a dollar bill can often be repaired easily and inexpensively. However, if the crack is large, located in the driver’s line of sight, or is deep and spreading, it is recommended to replace the entire windshield for safety reasons.

While there are DIY repair kits available, it is generally recommended to have a professional assess and repair or replace your windshield. They have the expertise and tools to do the job properly and ensure the safety of your vehicle.

The cost can vary depending on the extent of the damage, the type of vehicle, and the location. Minor repairs can range from $25 to $100, while a full windshield replacement can cost several hundred dollars. It is always best to get a quote from a reputable auto glass repair shop.

Many comprehensive insurance policies do cover windshield damage. However, it depends on the specifics of your policy and the cause of the damage. It is best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any deductibles that may apply.

Repairing a small crack or chip can often be done in less than an hour. Replacing a windshield typically takes longer, around 1-2 hours, depending on the vehicle and the adhesive used.