Can Cracks in the Car Windshield Be Repaired?
4 Answers
Whether a crack in the windshield can be repaired depends on the severity of the crack. Generally, star-shaped cracks are repairable. Star-shaped cracks are mostly caused by impacts from sharp-pointed hard objects, commonly when the vehicle is hit by flying stones while driving. These cracks usually appear in the relatively central area of the glass and rarely at the edges. If left unrepaired for a long time, star-shaped cracks tend to spread toward the center. For repairing star-shaped cracks, a moderately concentrated glass resin should be used. Overly concentrated resin cannot achieve the desired penetration effect, while low-concentration resin may fail to ensure the restored glass strength. After repair, the strength of star-shaped glass cracks can reach about 90% of the original windshield. The center point appears semi-transparent, and the surrounding cracks become lighter and thinner. The specific repair effect also depends on the timing of the repair after the glass damage occurs.
I remember last spring when I was driving out for fun, a small stone hit the windshield and left a fine crack. After searching online, I found that most small cracks like this can be repaired, as long as the diameter doesn’t exceed the size of a one-inch coin and isn’t in the driver’s direct line of sight. The repair shop technician used a resin injection method: first cleaning the crack thoroughly, applying a special adhesive, and then curing and reinforcing it with a UV lamp. After the repair, you can hardly notice it unless you look closely, and it only cost a couple hundred bucks—way cheaper than replacing the entire windshield and much faster too. However, if the crack is too large, has spread, or is near the edge of the glass, repairs are more likely to fail or compromise structural safety, requiring a full replacement. Delaying is the worst—temperature changes or vibrations can worsen the crack, so acting early is key. DIY repair kits are available online, but results can be inconsistent, and messing it up just adds more hassle. So, I went straight to a professional shop, and now I drive with much more peace of mind.
As a seasoned car enthusiast with over 20 years of driving experience, whether a windshield crack can be repaired depends entirely on its type and location. Small star-shaped dots or short cracks under 25mm can be professionally fixed using a method that involves drilling holes to inject resin, which is then cured to fill the gaps, restoring the glass's strength and clarity. This approach saves a significant amount compared to a full replacement, typically costing just a few hundred yuan. However, if the crack is at the edge, directly in the line of sight, or too deep and long, repairs might leave safety risks, making a full replacement the safer choice. Never compromise on safety—cracks can expand with sudden temperature changes and road vibrations, turning minor issues into major problems if ignored. Regularly check your windshield during maintenance, and applying an anti-crack film can help prevent minor damage. Drive with peace of mind and keep your spirits high.
When I used to deliver goods over long distances, the windshield often developed small cracks. The mechanic said minor damage could be repaired, such as slight cracks within a few centimeters in diameter. After cleaning, resin is injected to fix it. It saves money and time, making it more cost-effective than replacing the glass. However, if the crack is over 10 centimeters or near the edges, the repair effect is poor and prone to secondary cracking, so it's best to replace the glass immediately without delay. Temperature changes or bumpy roads can worsen the cracks, so taking early action is crucial.
