Is there a warranty period for natural cracks in car glass?
3 Answers
Natural cracks in car glass are covered under warranty. Here is some knowledge about windshield washer fluid: 1. Definition: Commonly known as car windshield cleaning fluid. It is a consumable item in car use. High-quality car windshield washer fluid mainly consists of water, alcohol, ethylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, and various surfactants. 2. Functions: Windshield washer fluid typically has functions such as wetting, penetrating, and solubilizing, thereby achieving the purpose of cleaning and removing dirt. The presence of alcohol and ethylene glycol can significantly lower the freezing point of the liquid, thus providing an antifreeze effect and quickly dissolving frost.
Last year, just six months after I bought my car, the windshield developed a crack for no apparent reason—there were no impacts or bumps during those days. I immediately went to the 4S store to inquire about the warranty coverage. They told me that car glass is generally not considered a component covered under the standard warranty, which usually lasts two to three years and primarily applies to core parts like the engine or electronic systems. For a cracked windshield, they’d need to check if it was caused by a manufacturing defect. The dealer asked me to first take photos of the crack to prove there was no external damage, then review the warranty manual to confirm it wasn’t covered. In the end, I had to pay out of pocket for a replacement. My advice for similar situations: check your car’s manual or consult the dealer first to avoid missing any recourse opportunities. Also, try not to park in direct sunlight to reduce stress on the glass and minimize the risk of cracking.
As someone who often thinks about cars, I find the handling of spontaneous glass cracks during the three-guarantee period quite nuanced. The three guarantees mainly cover the powertrain and critical components, while glass damage is often categorized under exterior parts or special clauses. For spontaneous cracks, such as those caused by thermal stress, if they occur in a new car within the warranty period, you must prove it was a factory defect to get compensation. Some brands might offer an additional one-year warranty for glass. The key is to keep photographic evidence and immediately seek an evaluation from the 4S store—avoid DIY repairs to prevent losing proof. Also, avoid washing hot glass with cold water during car washes, as large temperature differences can easily cause cracks.
