Should the windshield be replaced at a 4S shop or a repair shop?
2 Answers
Replacing the windshield at a 4S shop ensures quality, but you can also choose to pay out of pocket and have it replaced at a repair shop. For small cracks: Clean the crack with glass cleaner and alcohol; use a positioning sticker to align with the small hole and drip about 5 drops of repair solution; pull the syringe upward, secure the piston, and hold for about 10 minutes until bubbles completely escape; remove the syringe, reinsert it, and press downward to inject the repair fluid into the damaged area, holding for 15 minutes; remove the positioning sticker, apply the curing film, squeeze out the bubbles, let it sit for 20 minutes, and then peel off the curing film. For long cracks: Repairing long cracks is not recommended as the effect is quite limited. For such cracks, it is better to directly replace the entire windshield.
I'm a pretty frugal person, so when my windshield got damaged, I found it more cost-effective to have it replaced at a repair shop. A while ago, a rock hit my car and caused a crack, so I went straight to a reputable repair shop. Their quote was half the price of a dealership, and they used reliable aftermarket glass. The installation process was professional, and it was done the same day, saving me money. At the dealership, the parts alone are shockingly expensive, and you have to wait in line for an appointment, which wastes time. Honestly, the quality of repair shop glass isn't bad—it'll last for years without issues as long as you check that the adhesive is properly sealed to prevent leaks. I did some research myself and found that windshield replacement technology is quite mature these days. Non-OEM parts don't compromise safety, but it's best to choose a reputable shop. It's a money-saving and efficient solution, and the savings can be better spent on tire maintenance.
