Photo by Cole Freeman on Unsplash
Negosentro | Mistakes to Avoid During Auto Glass Replacement | Your windshield is designed to protect you from the elements and keep you safe as you drive. However, many individuals often make mistakes when it comes to auto glass that could cost them time and money.
While small chips are repairable, cracks need to be addressed immediately. Otherwise, they can spread and eventually lead to a replacement.
Not Waiting for the Installation
A cracked windshield is not only unsightly but also a safety risk. Even a tiny crack can spread and turn into what is called a spider web that threatens the integrity of your car’s glass. It’s best to get it repaired as soon as you notice a chip or a crack. This will help save you money and prevent further damage to your vehicle’s windshield.
Some individuals tend to ignore a crack in their car’s windshield because they think it’s not worth the cost of a repair. This is a mistake that can lead to bigger problems in the future and cause you to pay more for a replacement.
The compound used to repair or replace auto glass takes some time to dry and stick together. It’s, therefore, important not to use your vehicle immediately after getting it repaired. This can result in the adhesive seal deteriorating and damaging your windshield. If you must drive the car, make sure to have a friend follow you if the seal fails.
In addition, you should avoid washing your vehicle until after the auto glass repair has cured. This is because water pressure from the car wash can cause the windshield to come off. You should also be careful not to slam your doors for the first day or two. Slamming the doors can alter the air pressure in your vehicle cabin and compromise the bonding process.
You should also avoid driving the vehicle on bumpy roads and potholes for the first 48 hours after the windshield repair. Driving on these types of roads causes unnecessary vibrations that may damage the adhesive seal.
In addition, you should keep your windows rolled up slightly for the first couple of days after the windshield is replaced. This will help reduce the pressure on the windshield and allow the glue to cure properly. You should also be careful not to forcefully close the windows, as this can puncture or pierce the new seal. If possible, getting a car cover that allows you to easily open and close your windows without putting any pressure on them is a good idea.
Washing the Car
It’s important to wash your car often, but if you’re going to do so after a windshield replacement, it’s best to wait a few days. This is because the sealant on your windshield needs some time to fully secure itself to the glass. Going through a car wash with too much pressure can harm this process, as water or parts within the washing station could come into direct contact with the new auto glass. If you really need to wash your car, use only gentle cleaners, and never put it through a high-pressure hose.
Another mistake people make is wiping down their windshield when it’s dry. This is bad for the glass because it can create tiny scratches. Over time, these scratches can weaken the glass and cause further damage. It’s best to wipe the glass down when it is wet or with a soft cloth that has been cleaned with water. Paper towels and tissues can leave lint on the glass, which can scratch it, so only choose microfiber cleaning materials for your auto glass.
Finally, many people are tempted to drive their cars immediately after replacing the windshield. This is a huge mistake because the compounds used to repair and replace auto glass need time to completely dry and stick together. Even a short trip can put a lot of stress on the glass, which can crack or loosen it.
Getting your windshield or other vehicle windows fixed can save you a lot of money in the long run, but you must take precautions and follow the proper installation guidelines to avoid costly mistakes. If you are not an experienced auto glass technician, you should always leave the repair and replacement work to professionals. Trying to do it yourself could lead to more serious problems that will cost you more money and put your safety at risk.
Driving the Car After the Installation
The auto glass of your vehicle is a crucial part that offers protection to its passengers and supports the integrity of the car’s frame. It also plays a major role in your visibility on the road, so it is important to keep it free of cracks and chips. However, it is easy to make mistakes while dealing with auto glass, which could lead to further damage and expensive replacement. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Putting off small damages on your auto glass for too long is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. This will result in bigger damages and costly repairs when the cracks spread. It can also become fatal if the cracked glass shatters during sudden high-intensity jerks or bumps while driving.
Even a tiny crack in the windshield can affect your vision and cause accidents. It’s best to fix the damaged area right away, and you can do this by taking your vehicle to an auto repair shop or by calling a mobile service provider for an emergency windshield repair.
A lot of people are tempted to drive their vehicles after the auto glass replacement, but this is a mistake that can cause a number of issues. First, the adhesive or sealant needs time to dry, so you should wait a few hours before driving your car again. You should also avoid washing the vehicle since it can have a negative impact on the adhesive or sealant.
Another thing you should not do is slam the door of your vehicle, especially during the first 2-3 days after the auto glass is replaced. This will put pressure on the new windshield and can result in gaps and cracks that will affect its structural integrity.
In addition to the above tips, you should always ask for a warranty after repairing or replacing your auto glass. Depending on the company you choose, the length of their warranty may vary, but it should always be at least a year. You should also make sure to follow all their instructions for proper maintenance and care of your newly installed windshield.
Not Leaving the Warranty Card
When you get your windshield repaired or replaced, a reputable auto glass company will give you a warranty. This warranty is meant to give you confidence in the work performed. It should cover things like cracks or chips that grow after the repair and poor installation. In fact, you should be wary of any shops that do not offer warranties for their work.
Your windshield plays a critical role in your safety as you drive. It protects you from the elements and helps properly deploy airbags during an accident. This is why it is so important to have it properly installed by a trained technician. However, there are some mistakes that many individuals make during the process. Here are a few of them:
You may be tempted to wash your car after you have gotten your windshield or rear window fixed. However, this is a big mistake that you should avoid at all costs. Washing the vehicle after a repair can actually damage the glass and void your warranty.
Another mistake people often make when repairing their windshields is not leaving the warranty card at the installation location. This is a huge mistake that can cost you a lot of money down the road. The warranty card contains important information about your windshield repair or replacement, including the date and time of the service and the name and phone number of the installer. It also provides you with a detailed breakdown of what was covered and the terms and conditions of the warranty.
A good windshield and back window will provide you with protection from the elements and help your ADAS system function correctly. A cracked windshield can lead to inaccurate ADAS readings, which could compromise your safety while driving on the road. That is why it is so important to have your windshield repaired or replaced as soon as you notice any cracks or chips.
Getting your windshield repaired or replaced is an investment that will pay off in the long run. The only way to ensure that you are making the right decision is to ask your auto glass specialist about their warranty coverage and how long it lasts.
Photo by Cole Freeman on Unsplash
