Always have a clear idea? What to do with a broken windshield!

The windshield is the most important window for the driver. Without a clear, unobstructed view of the road, safe driving is impossible. Therefore, the law is particularly strict with regard to the condition of the windshield. Read in this article what to look for behind the windshield and what to do if it is damaged.

Possible windshield damage

Windshield protects against strong wind pressure as speed increases . It captures all the power of the wind and all the objects it carries. Even the smallest particles of sand can leave a lasting impression on the front screen. In addition to scratches and cracks, the constant accumulation of dust on the front glass contributes to a gradual deterioration in visibility.

In addition to stone damage and gradual scratching, body torsion can cause a sudden crack in your car's windshield. . Even slight buckling of the car body causes sufficient stress on the windshield, resulting in cracks. As a rule, this is a consequence of a manufacturing defect or negligence during assembly in combination with other factors. However, the possibility of a sudden crack in the front glass can never be completely ruled out. The reason for this lies in the load-bearing function of the windshield, which contributes to the overall rigidity of the vehicle and is therefore subjected to constant stress.

Turning on the wiper after losing the wiper blade inevitably results in scratches on the windshield. Therefore, they are specially hardened, although this treatment is mainly intended to protect against abrasion by sand. Even the best windshield offers little protection against rough handling with an open wiper arm. This also applies to the rear window.

Glass can be repaired.

Laminated automotive glass consists of three layers: tempered glass top layer, transparent thermoplastic layer and bottom layer . Most damage only affects the top layer, which can be repaired.
A damaged spot on the front screen can often be repaired by injecting plastic resin, resulting in complete disappearance of the crack, adequate stabilization of the crack site, and prevention of further damage. However, this requires that several positive factors coincide. It is up to the professional to determine if the windshield is repairable and to what extent.

Breakthrough in glass polishing

The technology has provided a real breakthrough in the field of scratch removal: new solutions are now available to polish blind spots or minor scratches . This is still a time-consuming task, as glass cannot be cleaned due to its hardness. However, with the right glass polishing solution, polishing device, and a lot of patience, amazing results can be achieved. This breakthrough can help save time and money.

no free repair

After decades of high-profile exposure to annoying radio commercials, everyone should know that glass damage can, under certain circumstances, be repaired. One thing should be clear in advance: despite all the loud promises of advertisers, there is no free repair. Even with comprehensive insurance, there is a deductible, which, depending on the rate, can be as expensive as the repair itself.

When to Repair Your Windshield

Due to the previously mentioned high windshield stresses, it is not recommended to continue driving with visible damage to the windshield for too long. Even the smallest fracture can sooner or later develop into extensive damage. The sealed and taped place restores complete security. Repairability of damage to the front glass is limited. To be eligible for repairs,

hole – must not be in the area directly in front of the driver (the so-called A-zone) – must not be within 10 cm of the windshield frame – can only penetrate the top glass – must not exceed 5 mm core diameter. – must not exceed the size of a coin of 2 euros in total .

With a 2 euro coin or a similar coin, every non-specialist can check the repairability for himself .

Helpful Immediate Steps

A stone chip causing visible damage to the windshield requires immediate action. With the help of special protective stickers, the fracture can be temporarily sealed for a long enough time to prevent damage from growing. Water entering a crack increases the risk of damage to the windshield. Freezing water in winter and evaporating water in summer put additional stress on the windshield. Therefore, the fracture should be sealed as soon as possible. Suitable stickers can be found in the accessories store.

TIP: Always keep a few sealant stickers on hand in your car in case your windshield breaks.

When replacement is required

The law does not allow significant damage to the windshield in the immediate vicinity of the driver. The immediate viewing range is the area directly in front of the driver, the so-called zone A. Window repairs are not allowed in this area. The 10-centimeter curb zone around the window frame is also excluded from the repair. A hole with a core diameter greater than five millimeters cannot be repaired. If any of these areas is damaged, the front glass must be replaced.

Do it yourself or replace?

Windshield replacement is a useful opportunity to learn how to repair cars yourself. Removing and installing a windshield without damage requires special knowledge, the right tools and a lot of experience. Old windshields with rubber around the perimeter were easier to repair than current glued windshields. Anyway, it used to be easier to shoot, and the windshield could be found in a landfill. This is hardly possible with today's bonded windshields.

Ultimately, the best advice is to find a professional if you don't have the skills, tools or funds. This provides an adequate result at moderate cost.

Preparation can help save on repairs. You are cautioned against removing the front glass using brute force, which could result in glass shards falling inside. It is useful to remove any interior coverings or panels. Removing all trims, rear-view mirrors and sun visors in advance makes windshield removal much faster. Many vehicles have edge protection bolted on. It can be easily removed, allowing mechanics to start repairs immediately.

TIP: Be sure to take a photo of the entire front screen and each individual sticker, allowing you to replace toll vignette, environmental badges, and other stickers. Highway vignettes can usually be obtained cheaply or free of charge .

Windshield upgrade

When the front screen is due for replacement anyway, you might want to consider a worthy upgrade. The law allows discrete tinting of windshields. Full dimming is only permitted for the rear windows and rear side windows! Screen tinting provides sufficient intimacy and anonymity for the driver in his car.

Adding value
and road safety
with new windshield

Installing a new windshield increases the value of a car. Either way, driving with a clean, scratch-free windshield is much safer.