Few moments are more irritating than hearing a rock hit your windshield on the road. At first, it might just look like a small chip or crack, but ignoring it could lead to a much bigger problem. A damaged windshield is both a cosmetic issue and a safety concern that can affect visibility and even the structural integrity of your car.
Do you know what to do if your windshield gets a crack or chip? These steps can help prevent further damage and determine whether it’s time for a repair or replacement.
1. Assess the Damage
The first thing to do is to find the crack or chip on your windshield. Windshield damage can vary, and minor chips can be repaired more easily than large cracks. Here are a few things to look for:
- Size – Smaller chips and cracks are usually repairable. If the chip is smaller than a quarter or the crack is shorter than three inches, you’re probably in luck. Anything larger is more likely to require a windshield replacement.
- Location – If the damage is in the driver’s direct line of sight, it can affect their vision. Some cracks or chips may even distort the windshield after repair. Alternatively, if the damage is on the edges of your windshield, the structural integrity could be weakened.
- Depth – If the crack or chip has broken through multiple layers of glass, a repair may not be enough to fix it.
If you’re not sure whether your windshield can be repaired or needs to be replaced, a professional technician can examine the damage for you.
2. Act Quickly to Prevent Further Damage
A small chip can turn into a large crack in no time, especially with temperature changes, bad road conditions, or moisture getting inside the damaged area. Prevent further damage by:
- Avoiding sudden temperature changes – Extreme heat or cold can cause the glass to expand and contract, which may worsen the damage. Try not to blast the defroster or AC directly onto the windshield.
- Keeping it clean and dry – Moisture can seep into the crack and make repairs more difficult. If rain is in the forecast, place a piece of clear tape over the crack until you can get it fixed.
- Driving carefully – Rough road conditions, speed bumps, potholes, or even slamming your car doors can make a small crack spread across your windshield.
- Addressing the damage as soon as possible – Repairing the damage as soon as you can will prevent it from becoming bigger and more expensive to fix.
3. Consider DIY Repair Kits (for Small Chips Only)
If the damage is minor and you’re in a financial pinch, you may be able to fix it yourself with a windshield repair kit from an auto parts store. These DIY kits use resin to fill in the damaged area and work best for very small chips.
Before attempting a DIY repair, make sure the chip is small and not spreading. Follow the instructions carefully to make sure you’re applying just the right amount of resin. DIY repairs can improve your windshield’s appearance and prevent cracks from spreading, but it won’t be as strong as a professional repair. If you’re not sure about this process, it might be best to get a second opinion from a windshield repair professional.
4. Know When to Call a Pro
For cracks or larger chips, professional repair is the safest and most effective option. Some auto glass shops even offer mobile services and can fix minor damage in under an hour. Consider calling a pro if:
- The crack is longer than three inches
- The chip is deep or has multiple cracks branching out
- The damage is in the driver’s immediate line of sight
- The crack touches the edge of the windshield
5. Will Insurance Cover Windshield Repair?
Many comprehensive car insurance policies cover windshield repairs. Double check with your insurance provider to see if you’re covered for chip and crack repairs, full windshield replacement, and mobile glass services. If your windshield is beyond repair, comprehensive insurance may help cover the cost of a new one.
6. How to Prevent Future Windshield Damage
While it’s impossible to avoid every flying rock on the road, you can reduce the risk of windshield damage with the following precautions:
- Keep a safe following distance – Stay back from large trucks and construction vehicles that are more likely to kick up debris.
- Avoid gravel roads when possible – Loose rocks and debris can easily chip your windshield.
- Park in a garage or shaded area – Extreme temperature changes can weaken your windshield over time.
- Replace worn-out wiper blades – Old or damaged wipers may be able to scratch your windshield.
A little extra caution can go a long way in protecting your windshield and avoiding unexpected repair costs.
Quickly addressing a crack or chip in your windshield can save you time and money. Assess the damage, prevent further spreading, and decide whether a DIY fix, professional repair, or full replacement is the best option. And if you’re not sure—always ask a professional!
This article is for informational purposes only and does not contain professional windshield repair advice.