How Long Can You Drive with a Cracked Windshield?
2 Answers
A cracked windshield should be replaced or repaired as soon as possible. The front windshield of a car is typically made of laminated glass, which can develop cracks upon impact. Air can enter the layers through these cracks, potentially causing delamination. Continuing to drive with a cracked windshield increases the risk as the pressure from speed and wind can expand the crack, impairing visibility and compromising driving safety. Windshield Repair: Minor chips caused by stones can often be repaired, depending on the extent of the damage. Small damages can be fixed using a glass repair resin, while larger cracks or deep pits may be difficult or impossible to repair. Windshield repair involves filling the crack with a high-transparency, durable resin to conceal the damage and prevent further cracking. The process involves using a vacuum pump to remove air from the crack, then using pressure to inject the resin, followed by curing it with UV light. Windshield Repair Precautions: Avoid washing the car or driving on rough roads for two days after repair. Before repair, ensure the windshield is thoroughly cleaned. Turn off the defroster after 5-10 minutes to prevent windshield cracking. Cracks longer than 20 cm are not recommended for repair, as the safety performance may not meet original standards.
I strongly advise against risking driving for too long with a cracked windshield, as it could shatter at any moment due to minor bumps or temperature changes, which can rapidly expand the crack. The windshield isn't ordinary glass—it's laminated safety glass, and once cracked, its overall strength is compromised. There's a real risk of sudden shattering at high speeds, obstructing your view and causing an accident. I've been through this before—I had to replace mine within a week because it started obstructing my vision. Check if the crack is small enough to be repaired (less than 6 inches in length); otherwise, you must replace it outright. Safety comes first—avoid driving if possible and head straight to a repair shop. Don't wait for rain or winter to make it worse.
