An intact windshield is not only important from an aesthetic prospective, it also preserves your safety. Cracked glass is less stable during a crash and may also obstruct your vision while driving. If you’re not sure whether you’re in need of a replacement, here are a few things to consider.
You’re Due for an Inspection
The crack in your windshield that you don’t consider to be a big deal could be looked at different during a vehicle inspection. Inspections are focused on safety, for both yourself as well as other drivers. Anything that affects safety will likely get your renewal denied until it’s fixed. Keep in mind that your windshield protects you during a roll-over accident. If its stability is compromised, it could fail in this duty and cause major injuries to you or your passengers.
Your View Is Obstructed
A crack in the middle of your windshield within your line of vision is dangerous for a different reason. Even relatively small cracks can compromise your ability to see while driving, especially when driving at night. Some cracks will continue to grow over time or as your traverse bumps and potholes. The larger the crack, the more distracting it will be, so replacement is best in this case.
You Notice Signs of Pitting
Pitting occurs when frequently driving down a gravel road or in other situations where your windshield is subjected to flying debris. While the defects in the glass may be small, they can still degrade your vision. This is especially true during storms, when your wipers may have a hard time clearing water out of pitted areas.
Your Windshield Is Hazy Around the Edges
Along with cracks and chips in the glass, the plastic coating on your windshield can also experience issues. This coating keeps glass in place in the event of an accident. A white haze around the perimeter of the windshield indicates that the plastic coating is coming loose and allowing air and moisture in. If the plastic fails completely during an accident, the glass is likely to shatter and cause injuries.
If you’re not sure whether repair or replacement is the best option for your vehicle, it’s time to get a professional opinion. Astro Auto Glass repairs small cracks and defects to prevent them from becoming bigger issues. We also perform full windshield replacement to ensure the safety and security of your vehicle.
Contact us to learn more about windshield repair in Albuquerque. You can also call 505-766-5176 to schedule an appointment today.
