What to Do If There Are Large Gaps After Replacing the Windshield?
4 Answers
Large gaps after replacing the windshield may be caused by incomplete removal of the original adhesive. It is necessary to seal the wider gaps between the glass and rubber strips with sealing strips. Precautions after windshield replacement: Do not wash the car within three days after replacing the windshield, and remove the tape fixing the windshield position after three days; try to avoid driving on excessively bumpy roads, and avoid sudden braking and rapid acceleration; do not insert parking permits or other cards into the gap between the windshield and the dashboard; do not drive on highways, and keep the maximum speed below 80 km/h; avoid applying window film within seven days. Precautions for windshield repair: Before repairing the car glass, thoroughly clean all dirt from the car glass. Carefully selected cleaners and related cleaning products are good choices. Turn off the defroster heating after 5-10 minutes of use, otherwise it may cause the rear windshield to crack.
Large gaps after windshield replacement are mostly due to installation issues. Possible misalignment or uneven sealant application can easily leave gaps if the installer isn't careful. As someone who's repaired many vehicles, I recommend returning to the shop immediately for realignment and additional sealant application. Don't delay - water leakage through gaps can cause serious interior damage. Monitor for wind noise while driving, which often indicates gap problems. While you can gently tap around the glass to check for looseness (if you're handy), leave professional adjustments to technicians to avoid causing further damage.
I've encountered this issue before. Last year, after replacing the glass, there was also a noticeable gap, which not only looked ugly but also raised concerns about water leakage. My first instinct was to confront the installation shop. Upon inspection, they found that the sealant wasn't applied properly and reinstalled it for free. As an ordinary car owner, I recommend you do the same—take photos for documentation to protect your rights. If the gap is significant, first check if it affects door closing or causes excessive wind noise at high speeds. If it's just a minor cosmetic issue, it might not be urgent. However, don't take it lightly for safety's sake; if rainwater seeps in and damages the interior, you'll regret it. Address it promptly before bigger problems arise.
A large gap in the windshield can easily lead to increased wind noise, water leakage during rain, and even affect the vehicle's structural integrity. As someone who enjoys paying attention to car details, I've encountered similar situations and learned a few things: check if the edges of the glass are even—if you feel obvious unevenness or wobble when touching it, it's likely due to installation errors or aging seals. It's recommended to use a soft ruler to measure the gap width; if it exceeds 1cm, it should be addressed promptly. First, contact the installation shop for warranty service—they may offer free or low-cost reinstallation. If that's not an option, visit a reputable auto repair shop to apply new adhesive for reinforcement. Avoid DIY attempts, as precise tools are required for proper windshield alignment.
