Windshield Damage: When To Repair Or Replace
When the question to repair or replace windshield glass arises, Sunroad Collision Center is a go-to location for your automotive needs. Our team addresses concerns about cracked windshields and chips in the glass through customized care for clients in the San Diego area.
Read on for help deciphering which situations call for a windshield repair and when to schedule a replacement instead. When you're ready to take the next steps, our team is ready to help you navigate the process.
When Should You Repair Your Windshield?
Small Windshield Cracks
Small windshield cracks are easily fixed, and repairing tiny cracks is a common procedure. In some cases, drivers can do this procedure themselves with a kit purchased from an auto store, but this isn't recommended in most cases. We encourage drivers to schedule an appointment with our Sunroad Collision Center for professional repairs that you can rely on.
Small Glass Chips
Sometimes debris can be kicked up and thrown at your windshield, causing a chip in the glass. Although chipped glass is often small, it can spread and cause spiderwebbing across the surface. When handled swiftly and appropriately, a chip can be filled in to prevent it from turning into a deep crack.
Other Outer-Layer Damage
Cracks and chips in windshield glass usually affect the outer layer of the windshield glass. However, there can be other types of damage to this layer, as well. Paint stains and other obstructive material are examples of outer-layer damage that may be removed or repaired.
Our specialists handle these scenarios on a case-by-case basis, ensuring you get unique care and a ride restored to optimal functioning. Schedule a consultation with our San Diego technicians today.
Passenger-Side Damage
As long as the damage on the passenger's side doesn't obstruct your view of the road or cause a safety issue for yourself or other drivers, you can continue to operate the vehicle as normal. However, it is not advised to drive when there's any damage to the windshield, obstructive or otherwise. Contact our specialists to see if we can give your vehicle a windshield or window repair.
In the case that repair isn't possible, we'll conduct a full replacement – but there's more on this next.
When Should You Replace Your Windshield?
Large Cracks
Large cracks have the potential to grow and cannot be patched either by the driver or by a professional. These cracks will require a windshield replacement to prevent the glass from potentially splitting and causing injuries to those inside the vehicle in the event of a crash.
Large Chips or Missing Glass
Large chips or missing chunks of windshield glass cause the surface area to lose its structural integrity. The result is a less safe windshield that can be distracting and downright dangerous to everyone inside the vehicle.
Through-and-Through Damage
Through-and-through damage occurs when a foreign object has managed to pierce through the windshield, puncturing the glass. This type of damage is especially concerning, as it can cause immediate and serious injury to the front-seat passengers.
Any windshield that has been punctured by an object should never be driven and must be replaced immediately to ensure the safety of all passengers inside.
Driver-Side Damage
Any stains or debris that have caused the view of the driver to be disrupted is considered driver-side damage. This type of damage renders the vehicle un-drivable until the windshield has been replaced.
How Much Does a Windshield Replacement Cost?
The cost of a windshield replacement varies depending on several factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, its age, the condition of the model, and the amount of material needed to replace the windshield.
Typically, a windshield replacement can cost anywhere from $300 to $500 on average, with costs even reaching higher figures depending on the make and model. But the only way to know for sure what you can expect from your replacement is to schedule a consultation with our collision center.
Windshield Repair: Collision Center vs. Auto Glass Shop
While both a collision center and an auto glass shop can repair or replace windshield glass, a collision center is more multifaceted. An auto glass repair center may focus on repair, but require you to go somewhere else for paint touch-ups or cosmetic work. Meanwhile, a collision center can handle it all.
Get Your Windshield Repaired or Replaced at Sunroad Collision Center
You don't need to wonder what to do regarding what to do: repair or replace windshield glass. Our specialists can do it all. Schedule a visit with our San Diego team and get everything done all in one go. Learn more during a consultation with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to know if a windshield needs to be replaced?
There are a few signs that your windshield needs replacement, like large cracks in the glass, chipping in the exterior, or damage at the edges of the glass. Any defects or damage to the windshield can grow, causing a dangerous set of circumstances while on the road. Thankfully, our San Diego collision center can handle the replacement or repair for you.
Can you leave a windshield cracked without replacing it?
You should never leave your windshield cracked. Driving with a cracked windshield is dangerous, as it can impair your visibility as a driver or become dangerous shrapnel in the event of a collision. Replacement or repair for a cracked windshield is typically an easy process and can sometimes be done in less than an hour. A consultation with our specialists can give you better insight into your specific circumstances.
Do I need to replace a windshield if a rock cracks it?
Yes, you will need to replace your car's windshield if a rock cracks it. Driving with a cracked windshield – especially from something as large as a rock – can be incredibly dangerous for everyone inside the vehicle. Replacing or repairing your windshield after it cracks is crucial for proper visibility on the road, as well as avoiding injuries from broken glass in the event of a collision.