What to Do When the Windshield Has a Long Crack?
4 Answers
A cracked windshield can be repaired, but only for some short cracks. For long cracks, it is recommended to replace the glass. Below is some relevant information about windshields: 1. Introduction: The windshield was an idea that Ford came up with in the 1920s, where two pieces of glass were sandwiched together with a layer of PVC plastic in between, creating a sandwich-like glass. This technology is still in use today. 2. Handling a Crack: If the windshield cracks while driving, you must reduce your speed and move out of the lane as soon as possible. Stay calm, avoid sudden steering wheel movements, and do not overuse the brakes. The driver should promptly assess the traffic situation and apply appropriate pressure to the brake pedal to pull over safely. If an emergency windshield is available, replacing it is the best option. If you must continue driving without a windshield, remove the shattered glass and close all windows tightly before driving. Do not increase your speed, as high internal pressure could cause the rear window to pop out.
I was driving when a large crack appeared on my windshield, starting from a stone impact, which scared me so much that I immediately pulled over to the roadside. Vibrations can cause the crack to expand rapidly, obstructing vision and potentially leading to accidents, so the first step is to find a safe place to stop and avoid continuing to drive. I tried temporarily securing the edges with transparent tape, but this is only an emergency measure and not a long-term solution. After inspection, the repair shop technician said that if the crack exceeds 15 centimeters, it generally requires replacing the entire windshield, as resin repairs might fail otherwise. The replacement process takes about an hour—they remove the old glass, clean the frame, and then adhere the new glass, ensuring certified brands are used. Safety should always come first, so don’t delay too long. Keeping a safe distance from large vehicles while driving can help reduce impacts.
I enjoy tinkering with my car in my spare time. For long cracks not exceeding 10 cm, you can DIY fix them using a repair kit. The steps are simple: choose a sunny day for the operation, first clean the glass surface to remove impurities, then inject resin into the crack with a syringe, and finally cure it with a UV lamp for a few minutes. The tools can be bought online for around 30 yuan. However, if the crack is too long or in the center of the field of vision, it's better to go to a professional shop to replace the glass, to avoid the repaired crack reopening and affecting driving safety. DIY saves money and helps you learn new skills, but I recommend wearing gloves and eye protection to prevent resin splashes from causing injury. After completion, adding a protective film can enhance the glass's durability.
Repairing a long crack in the windshield costs money. I've done the math: a DIY repair kit for small cracks costs around 20 yuan, but it's ineffective for cracks longer than a finger. Replacing the entire windshield varies by car model and brand, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand yuan. Fortunately, comprehensive car insurance usually covers repair costs. Contact your insurance company promptly to file a claim, and they typically reimburse part or all of the expense. They'll guide you through taking photos of the crack and finding an authorized shop for assessment. Don't wait too long, as the crack may expand, costing more and becoming hazardous. I've compared quotes from several repair shops and chose the most cost-effective option for quick handling without disrupting daily use.
