Your vehicle has many glass areas that serve a vital function when it comes to driving. Not only do windows and a windshield provide you with a clear view of the road ahead, but these glass structures help to maintain your safety should you be involved in an accident. The interior of your vehicle is less likely to collapse in a rollover accident when the windshield is intact.
If you spot any cracks or chips in your windshield, you must carefully consider whether you want to repair the damage or replace the windshield entirely.
Extent of the Damage
The first thing you should look at when trying to decide if you should repair or replace your windshield is the extent of the damage. Minor chips can often be repaired using a glass filler, saving you time and money.
If the chip is showing signs of spreading or if you have a significant crack in your windshield, then replacement is the only option available to you. You want to ensure that you are using the extent of the damage as a guide in helping you determine if repair or replacement is best.
Warranty Coverage
Many new vehicles come with extensive warranties that cover all types of damages. Some of the damages that are covered include chips or cracks in the windshield. Paying for a new windshield outright can be costly, so if your vehicle's warranty has expired then you might want to try repairing the damage instead.
If the warranty protecting your vehicle is still in effect, then it makes more sense to take advantage of the warranty coverage by replacing your windshield, no matter how minor the damage may appear to be.
Climate
The climate conditions in the area where you live can also be a factor when deciding whether to repair or replace your windshield. Many windshield repair techniques are unable to stand up to extreme temperature fluctuations.
The glass in your windshield expands and contracts as the temperature changes. This puts stress on the repaired area, and could result in the chip or crack reappearing. If you live in a climate that experiences temperature changes throughout the course of a day, then replacing the damaged windshield will probably be your best option.
A damaged windshield should be cause for concern. You will need to repair or replace the damaged glass in order to ensure that your safety remains intact while operating your vehicle. Consider the extent of the damage, your vehicle's warranty coverage, and your climate when deciding between glass repair or replacement in the future. Contact a service, like City Wide Auto Glass, for more help.
