Windshield: maintenance, repair and price

Do you really know everything you need to know about your car windshield? In this article we will explain everything to you: the different types of windshields, how to clean the windshield, what to do in the event of an impact ... After reading this article about the windshield, you will know everything about this car part. !

🚗 What is a windshield?

Le windshield it is one of the different parts that make up your car's auto glass, as well as the rear window, side windows and mirrors.

The windshield is actually the glass at the front of the car. Above all, it ensures your safety, protects you from bad weather such as rain and wind, and provides better visibility on the road.

There are different types of windshields:

• Anti-cut windshield : Eliminates scratches that could affect the driver's view through the windshield.
• Acoustic windshield : As the name suggests, this type of windshield reduces engine noise inside the vehicle.
• Le thermal windshield : Filters infrared and ultraviolet rays. This limits the heat inside your vehicle and therefore the use of your air conditioner, which also saves fuel.
• Hydrophobic windshield : It is specially designed to provide better visibility in rainy weather.
• Heated windshield : Its purpose is to limit fogging and freezing thanks to conductive metallic microfibers.

Since 1983, French law has required manufacturers to use laminated windshields. This windshield is designed to reduce the risk and severity of injuries associated with shattered windshield in the event of an accident.

🔧 How do I clean my windshield?

Cleaning the windshield is not a very difficult operation. Remember that a well-cleaned windshield provides better visibility on the road and therefore greater safety. The more you drive, the more likely your windshield is to get dirty due to external influences such as pollution, insects, particles emitted by your car...

Material:

• Cleaner
• Hot water
• white vinegar
• Lemon
• Newspaper

Tip # 1: use cleaning products

Use cleaning products and kits available from supermarkets or specialty stores.

Tip 2: natural solutions

There is also a natural alternative, but just as effective: use a mixture of white vinegar and hot water, and newspaper to wipe the stains on your windshield.

Tip # 3: Get Out Immediately

Don't wait too long to remove stains from your windshield; the longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to remove stains.

Tip # 4: Also clean the inside of your windshield.

Also remember to clean the inside of the windshield: you can use hot water with dishwashing liquid and wipe it with a clean soft cloth. This will reduce reflections on the inside of the windshield and therefore improve your visibility.

Tip 5: use lemon

Granny's last tip: To prevent insects from sticking to your windshield, wipe your windshield with lemon. This degreases and prevents insects from sticking together.

?? What should I do if I hit my windshield?

It is possible that while driving, an external element (pebble, stone, glitter ...) hits the windshield and creates what is called a shock. Then you will notice a crack in the windshield glass. If so, the order of elimination of the blow differs depending on the size of the blow:

• If the blow does not exceed 2 euro coins (about 2,5 cm in diameter), it will usually be possible to eliminate the impact without changing the windshield. It also depends on the location of the impact. It is imperative that you go to the garage as soon as possible to check the bump, because even if it is not very large, cracks can spread and damage the entire windshield. Wait about an hour before the garage to repair the blow with a special resin.
• If the impact is more than 2,5 cm and / or it is placed in a location that is too difficult to repair, you may have to replace the entire windshield. In this case, contact a mechanic immediately because your vision while driving may be too impaired to drive. Replacing the entire windshield takes 2 to 3 hours.

📝 What is glass break insurance?

Theglass breakage insurance it is an auto insurance that covers you in the event of damage to your vehicle's auto glass, of which the windshield is a part. To find out if you are insured against broken glass, refer to your auto insurance contract.

If you are insured, your insurance will cover windshield crash repairs. In some cases, you will still have to pay a deductible. Once again, all information is available in your auto contract with your insurer.

More information on certified garages depending on your insurer (MAAF, GMF, AXA, MAIF, MACIF, etc.) can be found in our dedicated articles.

️ How long does it take to change a windshield?

On average, a professional windshield replacement takes from 2 to 3 hours... This period may vary slightly depending on the type of windshield or model of your vehicle.

?? How much does a windshield cost?

The price of a windshield depends a lot on your car model and also on the quality and type of windshield you want. Entry-level windshields cost about 50€ but the price can rise quickly up to 350 € average.

Now you know the basic information about your car windshield! If you need to make an appointment with a mechanic for a windshield replacement, our online garage comparator can help you find the best mechanic at the best price!