Does Replacing the Windshield Have Any Impact?
4 Answers
Replacing the windshield may have some impact. If you go to an unreliable auto repair shop or choose a poor-quality glass brand, it will definitely not be as good as the original factory windshield. There are generally two reasons for replacing the windshield: one is scratches on the glass that affect visibility, and the other is damage points on the glass that compromise safety. The maintenance methods for the windshield are as follows: 1. Proper use of windshield washer fluid: During regular windshield maintenance, choose the appropriate washer fluid based on the season and weather conditions. When the windshield surface appears blurry, cleaning it with the right washer fluid can make it much clearer. If you notice glare issues at night, you can also wipe the glass with washer fluid. Additionally, when driving on highways or in dusty conditions, washer fluid is used up quickly, so it's important to replenish it promptly. 2. Adding washer fluid yourself: The easiest way to add washer fluid is to have a car wash or repair shop do it for you, but the cost will be higher than buying a bottle and doing it yourself. This task is not difficult, and car owners can easily do it themselves. Generally, purchased washer fluid needs to be diluted before use—just follow the instructions on the bottle. When adding washer fluid yourself, be careful not to overfill it. If there are some bubbles at the container opening, don’t worry; it won’t affect usage. 3. Apply heat-insulating film to the windows: In summer, a thin layer of heat-insulating film can make a big difference, blocking the scorching sun while also providing heat insulation and UV protection. 4. Get glass insurance for peace of mind: Glass breakage insurance is a type of commercial insurance where the insurer compensates for losses due to the insured vehicle’s windshield or window glass (excluding headlights and mirrors) breaking during use.
I've replaced the windshield several times and haven't noticed any major issues. The key is to choose a professional shop - if it's installed properly, there won't be any leaks or wind noise. Otherwise, rainwater leaking in would be troublesome. The windshield is connected to the airbag system, and if it's not installed tightly, there could be problems when the airbag deploys. That's why I recommend certified repair shops - they use more reliable adhesives and sealants. I once went cheap with a small shop, and the wind noise at highway speeds was terrible. Later, I had it redone at an authorized shop, and the noise disappeared immediately. Also, after installation, be sure to inspect it - don't rush into long trips. First test the defroster effectiveness and wiper fit to make sure everything works properly.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I believe changing a windshield isn't a big deal. The main impact is on driving comfort, such as increased wind noise or minor issues. If a newly installed windshield isn't fitted properly, there might be a whistling sound at high speeds, which can be quite annoying. In rainy conditions, poor visibility and weak defogging functionality can be dangerous. Cost-wise, it's not cheap either, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. It's advisable to check if insurance covers it to avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses. The quality of the glass is also important—opting for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass might offer better durability. After the replacement, drive for a few days to test it out, and if any issues arise, get it fixed immediately to prevent minor problems from escalating.
From a technical perspective, there are no negative effects in replacing the windshield. The installation process uses professional adhesive for sealing to ensure no air or water leakage; OEM glass matches the vehicle structure, protecting sensors like rain sensors from displacement. Aftermarket options are cheaper but less durable, potentially developing fine cracks over time. Post-installation, the glass fit must be checked to prevent accidents from detachment at high speeds. High-quality replacements can even reduce glare, enhancing nighttime driving safety. Overall, it's straightforward as long as done through proper channels.
