Can You Drive 24 Hours After Replacing the Windshield?
2 Answers
Yes, you can drive. Relevant explanations are as follows: Introduction: The windshield can be attached to the car body with glass adhesive. Since the adhesive takes a long time to cure (generally more than 12 hours at room temperature), it is necessary to wait until the adhesive is completely dry after replacing the windshield to prevent issues such as glass misalignment, adhesive failure, or water leakage caused by insufficient curing. Notes: After the adhesive dries, it is recommended to perform a spray test to check for water leakage. Only confirm that everything is fine before driving the car away. Some new types of adhesives dry very quickly, and you can also consult the manufacturer of the glass adhesive. Do not wash the car within three days after replacing the windshield, and remove the tape fixing the windshield position after three days.
I remember when I went to the shop last time to replace the windshield, the technician specifically emphasized waiting 24 hours before driving. Because the windshield is installed using strong adhesive, it's not secure right after installation. If you rush to drive and encounter bumpy roads or emergency braking, the glass could loosen, shift, or even fly off, causing an accident. I painfully opted for a taxi that day to ensure the adhesive fully dried and cured. Safety first—don't gamble with your life or others'. Just park the car in the garage or on the roadside, don’t rush to use it, and find something else to pass the time, like fixing a headlight or something.
