Can Windshield Be Replaced on Rainy Days?
2 Answers
It can be replaced but should not be exposed to rain, only indoors. It is recommended to replace it on sunny days. Below are precautions for windshield replacement: 1. No car washing within three days: Do not wash the car within three days after replacing the windshield. Remove the tape fixing the windshield position after three days. 2. Drive cautiously: Try to avoid driving on excessively bumpy roads and avoid emergency braking and rapid acceleration to prevent windshield displacement. 3. Mind the dashboard gap: Do not insert parking permits or other cards into the gap between the windshield and the dashboard. 4. Avoid highway driving: Keep the maximum speed below 80 km/h.
From my experience, replacing windshields on rainy days isn't very reliable. Why? Because windshield installation requires special sealant, which is highly sensitive to moisture. The high humidity on rainy days significantly reduces the adhesive's effectiveness. Even if it appears to hold initially, you're likely to encounter wind and water leaks within a couple of days. I remember one time a customer urgently needed a windshield replacement, and it started raining right after the job was done. The edges of the windshield bubbled and turned white, and eventually, the entire windshield had to be redone. Repair shops need to operate in completely enclosed workshops with dehumidifiers to control temperature and humidity. After replacement, the vehicle must sit for at least 12 hours to allow the adhesive to fully cure. So unless it's an emergency, it's best to wait for a sunny day to replace your windshield.