Don’t Let a Cracked Windshield Get You in Trouble

Learn When to Repair or Replace a Windshield

Your windshield does a lot more than keep your hair looking great. Every time you're cruising the highway, it works hard to stop bugs, stones, and debris from getting into the vehicle and helps ensure everything that's inside doesn't get out during an accident. Our staff at Precision Auto understand that not every crack or ding requires a windshield replacement. If you're driving through Germantown, Maryland, and find a brand new crack, here are a few guidelines to help determine if you need new glass.

Location, Location, Location

There are always those times when you're driving, and something splatters against your windshield can leave a tiny mark that can ruin your viewing angle. The same goes for cracks. When a smaller impact or fissure forms on the side of your windshield, it may not impede your viewing angle. If it does fall into your line-of-sight, it's a good idea to get the entire windshield replaced instead of attempting a fill or fix. Even a repair will still be visible and create a blindspot!

Size Matters

Smaller rock marks accumulate over time, no matter where you drive. Some locations are worse than others, subjecting your car to road salts or pebbles from construction vehicles. While small debris may still crack the glass, the resulting mark may be small enough to ignore. The key is to get the rock mark filled before it gets any worse since a crack can quickly grow overnight into severe damage that makes it hard to see.

When To Replace

Getting hit by a small stone on the freeway is one thing. Windscreen damage caused by a significant accident is another beast entirely. If you've been in a collision and the glass only has minor cracks, you should get it replaced. Multiple large cracks mean your windshield has lost much of its structural integrity; this means the next object that collides with the glass may shatter it completely.

There are many times you'll be able to make the call about windshield replacement or repair. Even if you don't think you'll need all new glass, don't put off making an appointment with a professional. Leaving small cracks alone will let dirt and ice form, transforming a minor hairline crack into a spiderweb of problems! Visit Precision Auto in Germantown, Maryland, for all of your windshield needs.