What to Do When Your Car Windshield Cracks?
2 Answers
Solutions for a cracked car windshield: While driving: Reduce your speed and move out of the traffic lane as soon as possible. The driver should assess the situation based on the extent of the crack. If the crack is small, you can drive to a nearby repair shop for fixing. If the crack is large, for safety reasons, it is recommended to pull over, seek assistance, and replace the windshield promptly. Repairing small cracks: Generally, specialized repair tools and resin are used. The resin is applied into the crack using the repair tool to fill and solidify the gap, thereby achieving the repair. Repairing large cracks: If the crack diameter exceeds 20mm, the repair effect will be poor, and it is advisable to replace the windshield directly.
I noticed a crack in the windshield and this needs to be handled carefully. While driving, the crack can easily spread and obstruct your view, especially at high speeds which is dangerous, so it's important to stop and check immediately. For small cracks, like those within the width of a finger, you can try a temporary repair. I bought a kit online and did it myself a few times—applying some special resin and then curing it with a UV light for a few minutes can fix it and prevent it from growing, costing just a few dozen bucks which is convenient. But if the crack is larger than a coin or near the edge, don’t attempt DIY fixes as it might make things worse; instead, drive straight to a professional glass shop where they have the right tools to assess, repair, or replace it. Safety first—delaying could let the crack grow and affect braking response, especially after rain when you need to ensure the window seal doesn’t leak. Replacing a large windshield usually takes a few hours, and then you should let it dry for a day before driving to ensure the adhesive sets firmly. It’s also a good idea to be gentle when cleaning your car to avoid scratches and add extra protection.
