Windshield Repair vs Replacement: How to Tell Which Is Right for Your Car

Have a crack in your windshield? Here’s everything you need to know about how to decide between windshield repair vs replacement.

There’s nothing quite like that sinking feeling of discovering damage to your car’s windshield. Most people dread the costs and hassle, leaving many to put off repairs or ignore it altogether.

Denial won’t keep you and your family safe while driving around with a broken windshield. It’s time for a fix, but how do you know whether to replace your windshield or simply get it repaired?

To help you decide between windshield repair vs replacement, let’s look at signs to watch out for.

Is a Repair Possible?

While it’s easier to get away with a repair, sometimes the damage is too great. When deciding between windshield repair vs replacement, there are three main factors to consider.

Size

Repairs largely depend on the size of the damage. In general, chips smaller than a quarter and cracks smaller in length than a dollar bill are repairable.

Sometimes it’s possible to fix larger damage, but that would depend on the location of the damage and the capability of the repair shop.

Depth

A windshield contains several layers. Once an object penetrates deep enough into those layers, a repair will not hold.

If the damage goes through both the outer and inner layers, or halfway through the glass, it will be too deep to repair.

Location

Damage to the outer edge of the windshield, no matter the size, always requires a replacement. Outer edge damage makes the windshield unstable.

Also, if the damage is in the driver’s line of sight, repairs might distort the view. In that case, it would be better to install a new windshield.

When It’s Time to Replace

When replacement is inevitable, a glass company, such as Multi-Glass of Texas LLC, can get you back out on the road in no time.

You never want to settle for repairs when the following situations compromise your safety.

Damage Is Blocking Your View

Damage in your line of sight can put you and others in danger. Even a small chip can obstruct your view during adverse weather. Or mistaking a chip as another car in your “blind spot” can cause over-correction.

Having a clear line of sight will help you make important split-second decisions on the road.

An Inspection Is Coming Up

Crossing your fingers during a vehicle inspection won’t guarantee windshield damage will pass. Any chip or crack the inspector feels obstructs the driver’s view or compromises the safety of the windshield will fail.

Save yourself the fees and delays by replacing your windshield before the inspection.  Be sure to check out services like Wizard Auto Glass – Windshield Replacement for great options.

Your Windshield Doesn’t Look Quite Right

Heavy pitting, a white haze on the edges of your windshield, or large damage are all warning signs for replacement. If your windshield doesn’t have the clear, smooth appearance it once did, it’s time for a new one.

Also, unlike external damage, chips or cracks on the inside of a windshield are not repairable.

Know the Facts on Windshield Repair vs Replacement

Keep yourself and others safe on the road. By knowing how to determine a windshield repair vs replacement, you will know which option is right for your car.

Need more tips on keeping your car in great condition? Check out the articles in our Car Maintenance blog!