Signs You Need Auto Glass Replacement

A windshield protects car occupants against outside elements like rain and flying debris. However, your windshield may experience wear and tear with time calling for a replacement. But, how do you know that you require auto glass replacement? These are the telltale signs.

Pitting

Pitting on your windshield occurs when flying debris hits your auto glass, causing indentation. When light hits your auto glass, the pits may disperse the light unevenly, potentially resulting in a blinding effect. Poor visibility can make you cause road accidents easily, which may cause damage to your vehicle and bodily injuries. Additionally, dirt may hide inside the pits resulting in pronounced swirl marks even after washing your windshield. So, replace your pitted auto glass to ensure the proper performance of your windshield.

Cracking

Cracks may form on your windshield due to physical damage when hard objects hit your auto glass. If the cracks are small, your auto glass repair service may seal the cracks, restoring your windshield's functions. However, if your auto glass has large cracks, these may obscure your view while driving. This usually increases the risk of causing a car accident. Also, extensive cracks reduce your windshield's structural integrity increasing the risk of collapse. Besides, repairing large cracks may not always be possible. In such cases, auto glass replacement may be necessary.

Hazing

Manufacturers treat windshields with a plastic film that holds the auto glass together upon breakage. This helps prevent the glass from spreading inside the car and causing injuries like cuts to vehicle occupants. However, you may notice a white haze forming around the windshield's edges, which may block your view of the road. This indicates that the film is separating from your windshield. If the plastic is damaged, you may need to replace your auto glass to solve the hazing problem.

Aging

Windshield manufacturers usually specify the lifespan of their products. Hence, by the time your windshield comes to the end of its lifespan, this means that it may no longer function appropriately. For instance, old windshields may shatter easily due to structural weakness. Thus, consider auto glass replacement if your windshield reaches the manufacturer's expected lifespan.

Sagging

Your auto glass may break due to harsh weather. For instance, snow may cover your windshield during winter, and the extra weight may cause your windshield to sag. Eventually, sagging exerts excess pressure on certain parts of your windshield, leading to collapse. This forms leakage points for water to access your vehicle's interior. In most cases, windshield repair may not restore a sagged windshield, effectively calling for auto glass replacement.

The indicators of auto glass replacement include aging, cracks, sagging, pitting, and hazing. Consider buying a new windshield when you see these signs.