Can You Still Drive with a Crack on the Windshield?

[GabrielDella]

You should not drive with a crack on the windshield for the following reasons: 1. When laminated glass cracks, air can enter the interlayer, causing delamination; 2. As the vehicle speed and wind pressure increase, the crack may expand, impairing visibility and compromising driving safety. Causes of windshield cracks include human factors, external shocks, and excessive temperature differences between the inside and outside of the vehicle. The steps for windshield film installation are: 1. Dry the windshield by heating; 2. Clean with water; 3. Position the film; 4. Remove the backing; 5. Use a towel to seal edges before spraying water; 6. Squeegee out excess water.

[VonJessica]

As someone who has been driving for many years, I think you can still drive for a little while, but it's definitely not a long-term solution. The cracked windshield bears pressure while driving, and bumps or sudden temperature changes can rapidly expand small cracks into a web-like pattern, directly obstructing your view and even triggering airbag malfunctions. Last time, my friend had a small crack in his car's windshield. After driving for a few days, it completely shattered during a high-speed bump, nearly causing an accident. The windshield is part of the vehicle's structural support, and once cracked, it weakens. I recommend immediately seeking professional repair. Small cracks can be fixed with resin filling for around 100-200 yuan, while larger cracks require replacing the entire windshield for about a thousand yuan. Don't wait until insurance claims become more complicated. Safety should always come first. Before driving, check if the crack is within your line of sight and avoid long-distance driving.

[DelOmar]

From a legal perspective, you can still drive temporarily, but with caution. Many local traffic regulations stipulate that if the crack exceeds 15 centimeters or is located in the core area of the driver's field of vision, it will be considered a violation, and you'll get a ticket if stopped by the police. In case of an accident, the opposing lawyer could argue that the car itself was defective, placing all liability on you, and insurance denial is common. I've learned that urban driving or short trips might be manageable, but suburban road conditions pose higher risks. Cracks exposed to sunlight, rain, or snow can worsen more easily. Temporary fixes like taping to prevent dust may work, but the fundamental solution requires a visit to the dealership. Don't prioritize convenience over potential consequences—stricter regulations could lead to greater losses.

[OMaddox]

Veteran Driver's Advice: You can still drive it to the nearby supermarket or repair shop, but don't assume it's safe. When I was young, I saved on repair costs by driving to work with a cracked windshield. A small pothole caused the crack to spread, nearly obstructing my view and causing an accident. Expanding cracks significantly reduce the glass's strength, and vibrations can scatter dangerous fragments. A temporary fix is using transparent tape to secure the edges and maintain neatness, but it doesn't address the root issue. It's best to avoid driving beyond short distances and opt for professional repair services as soon as possible—resin injection takes just half an hour and is affordable. Never gamble with safety; it's not a joke.