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The Importance of Windshield Replacement for Your Safety

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The Importance of Windshield Replacement for Your Safety

Windshield Replacement

Although automobile windshields have been around since 1904, they were optional until 1915, when Oldsmobile included them as standard features. Their primary purpose was to shield drivers and passengers from debris, wind, and weather conditions. Over the years, windshields have evolved to include various features that make them an essential part of a vehicle’s safety, so replacing a seriously damaged windshield is crucial.  

When Does a Windshield Need Replacing?

It is common for debris from the road or another vehicle to fly up and hit windshields, which sometimes causes minor cracks. A tiny flaw in the glass may not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to serious problems. When you are in doubt about whether to have your windshield replaced, there are a few general guidelines that can help. Replace the glass if:

  • Damage is in the driver’s line of vision.
  • A star, crack, or chip is growing larger. 
  • There is significant damage that might compromise safety.
  • Pitting from damage scatters light rays and makes it difficult to see.
  • Part of the windshield is missing.
  • The windshield has a white haze around the edges caused by a loose plastic windshield cover. (This cover prevents the glass from shattering in an accident.)

Small Cracks May Be Repaired 

Replacing a windshield after any damage is the only foolproof way to ensure it remains fully functional. However, professionals may be able to repair flaws without compromising windshield features if you have fewer than three cracks or chips under six inches. Until you arrange repairs, it’s important to prevent damages from worsening. 

Per Motor1 experts, avoid using super glue on the crack. It’s a frequently recommended hack that could make the situation worse. Avoid parking directly in sunlight until you can schedule repairs since heat can cause a crack to grow. Also, avoid spraying cold water on a hot windshield. 

Windshields Reinforce a Vehicle’s Structure

A windshield is a hard-working feature with several jobs. It protects vehicle occupants in more ways than just safeguarding them from flying debris. According to Your Mechanic, the windshield is crucial to a vehicle’s structural integrity.  

Your windshield prevents the body sway that occurs when you turn corners. It improves the vehicle’s body rigidity and supports the roof. A windshield helps prevent the roof from being crushed in a rollover accident and protects passengers in front-end collisions.  

Advanced Vehicle Features Are Linked to the Windshield 

The windshields on modern vehicles connect to several advanced safety features. For example, many cars include forward-facing cameras and sensors on or near the windshield. They constantly monitor a car’s surroundings and interact with safety systems to send trouble alerts. When professionals replace your windshield, they recalibrate sensors to ensure they work correctly.

Other safety features linked to the windshield include lane keep assist, which alerts you if you change lanes without a signal. Windshields are connected to automatic braking systems that take over if you ignore the forward collision warning. Because 10% of accidents occur in the rain, your car might have a rain sensor that lets you know it’s raining so you can ensure clear visibility.

Your car’s windshield is a crucial safety feature, so replacing it when damaged is essential. While it may be possible to repair minor cracks, professional replacement is the best option to maintain a vehicle’s integrity. Experts also recalibrate your car’s safety features when they replace a windshield.

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