No two windshield cracks or chips are exactly the same, so it stands to reason that not all repair jobs are alike. The short answer is the usual ‘it depends,’ but on what? Which windshield cracks can be repaired and when is a complete replacement necessary?
Requirements for Windshield Repairs
Windshields can typically be repaired providing the crack or chip meets the following requirements:
- Cracks are less than 14 inches long (350 mm) and do not directly cross the driver’s field of vision (the area directly ahead of your steering wheel). Note that this figure comes from the Repair of Laminated Automotive Glass Standard (ROLAGS); some auto glass shops cannot or will not work on cracks longer than 10 inches, for example.
- The crack does not touch the edges of the windshield. Cracks that extend to the edges of the windshield may structurally compromise the windshield and thus often need to be completely replaced.
- Chips are less than 3 inches in diameter and do not directly affect the driver’s field of vision, according to ROLAGS. Most auto glass shops are able or willing to repair chip damage no greater than the size of a quarter, but ask them if they are able to repair larger chips and if it’s safe to do so.
- The depth of the crack or chip does not extend all the way into the interior. A windshield is manufactured like a sandwich, with a plastic layer between two layers of glass. If the crack or chip punctures the inner glass, a replacement will most certainly be required.
- As mentioned, the location of the crack or chip matters. Cracks or chips that extend into the driver’s field of vision or to the edges of the windshield cannot be repaired.
- Cracks or chips that have damaged any internal sensors or cameras in an ADAS system cannot be repaired easily, so a replacement will usually be required.
Is It Better to Replace or Repair My Windshield?
Always endeavour to have your windshield repaired rather than replaced, provided that the job can be done safely and securely. If your auto glass shop insists on a full replacement, they typically are saying so to keep you safe and not to get you to pay out of pocket expenses. For this reason, it helps to have a reputable auto glass shop working on your car. Elite Campbell is located at the end of the driveway at 1386 White Oaks Road in Campbell. Whether you are looking for a body shop in the Cambrian area or a body shop in south San Jose or anywhere in between or around, we will accommodate all of your auto body repair needs.
Furthermore, always endeavour to respond to cracks and chips sooner rather than later. If a crack or chip goes unattended, it can spiderweb into a compromised windshield that is beyond repair. This means you’ll need to have it replaced, which may not be covered by your insurance policy and can cost quite a bit more.
How to Have Your Windshield Repaired
Naturally, windshield crack repair is a specialized trade that takes years of expertise to perform safely and properly. It is highly recommended not to try to DIY these types of repairs if the damage is significant.
Minor repairs can be repaired with DIY auto glass repair kits, which are typically epoxy compounds that must be applied directly to the crack or chip. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and contact an auto glass shop if you are worried about the condition of your windshield afterwards.
When you do require professional auto glass repairs, only trust licensed and experienced auto glass technicians. Unfortunately, not all repairs are performed to the same standard of quality, which is why it’s worth your time to research a little before committing to an auto glass shop.
The Best Way to Have Windshield Cracks Repaired
We recommend the use of online marketplaces of local, independent auto glass shops rather than trusting the first shop you come across. Reputable, vetted auto glass shops listed on myWindshield are all committed to providing quality service at competitive prices. Even better, no matter where you live in the US you’ll find a reliable auto glass shop near you.
