Can I still drive with a cracked windshield?
2 Answers
You can still drive with a cracked windshield, but it should be repaired as soon as possible, otherwise it will affect the repair effect. More information about windshield cracks is as follows: 1. Generally speaking, the probability of cracks on the front windshield of a car is the highest, but not all cracks can be repaired. Only cracks on the outermost layer of glass can be repaired. The types of cracks that can usually be repaired are: star-shaped cracks and linear cracks. 2. If the crack diameter exceeds 20mm, the repair effect will be poor. Under normal circumstances, 4S stores do not recommend repair but suggest directly replacing the windshield.
I've been researching car safety for years and know that windshield cracks should never be taken lightly. A small crack can rapidly expand due to vibrations, temperature changes, or minor impacts while driving. In severe cases, the entire glass can shatter, completely obstructing visibility and potentially injuring occupants in an accident. I recall one accident analysis where a small crack split open during high-speed bumps, causing a chain collision—extremely risky. Crack location also matters: cracks near the edges are structurally weaker and more dangerous, while those in the center may be temporarily manageable but still require caution. Legally, many regions explicitly prohibit driving with visible cracks, with penalties including fines and demerit points if caught. My advice: measure the crack—if under 5 cm, drive slowly to a repair shop for resin filling; for larger cracks, stop immediately and call a tow truck. Safety is no trivial matter—don't gamble, get it professionally handled ASAP.
