What are the taboos when replacing the rear windshield?
4 Answers
Replacing the rear windshield has a major taboo: washing the car within three days. Below is an introduction to knowledge about windshield replacement: 1. Impact: If the installation is not done properly, the glass adhesive on both sides of the windshield and the glass itself may not fit tightly, which can affect the vehicle. During high-speed driving, gaps between the windshield and the car body may cause wind leakage, leading to increased interior noise. Additionally, when driving on bumpy roads, you may feel unusual rattling or impact sounds from the car. 2. Precautions: Try to avoid driving on excessively bumpy roads and refrain from sudden braking or rapid acceleration to prevent the windshield from shifting.
I learned my lesson the hard way when replacing the rear windshield before. The biggest mistake was trying to save money by going to a roadside shop, which resulted in using inferior glass and adhesive. The sealing was poor—it leaked in summer and let in drafts on highways during winter, with unbearable noise. This kind of mistake is actually quite common. If the glass isn’t securely fixed, it can loosen or even detach on bumpy roads, posing serious risks to both yourself and others. Professional shops use factory-grade adhesive and standardized tools. They properly clean old glue and treat surface rust to ensure a tight bond. It’s worth spending a few hundred extra for reliable service to avoid future headaches—after all, driving safety is no joke. Remember, the rear window involves defogging and heating functions; damaging them compromises visibility and increases danger.
The lesson I learned as a car owner when replacing the rear windshield is to never overlook the weather conditions during installation. For example, replacing it on a damp and cold day can result in the adhesive not drying thoroughly, leaving moisture trapped in the gaps, which later leads to bubbles or leaks, and squeaking noises when the wind blows. That time, I rushed the repair and chose a rainy day, only to find cracks appearing along the glass edges months later, forcing me to redo the job and waste money. Another major mistake is using non-OEM low-quality adhesive, which lacks sufficient viscosity and turns yellow, compromising both aesthetics and longevity. Professional repair shops choose dry seasons for the job and use high-quality materials to ensure a secure process. My advice is to check the weather forecast in advance and not sacrifice quality for speed.
I've seen many cars make mistakes when replacing the rear windshield. A common taboo is skipping the surface cleaning process. If old adhesive and dust aren't thoroughly removed, the new adhesive won't bond securely, making the glass prone to loosening or shifting, which increases risks during high-speed driving. Another thing to avoid is DIY installation. Lacking professional tools can easily scratch the heating defogging wires, causing them to malfunction. During repairs, always supervise the workers to check the sealing effect and test the air conditioning and water spray. Choosing a certified shop can save you trouble, as they are familiar with the process and reduce potential hazards.
