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Broken Car Windshield – Know What You Should Do
A broken windshield is an inconvenient and often unexpected expense for many drivers. If you suddenly notice a crack or damage across your car's windshield, it's understandable to feel annoyed or overwhelmed. However, a damaged windshield is a common, manageable issue that can be adequately repaired by taking the proper steps. In the section below, we'll walk through the easy process, from assessing the severity of the damage to working with your insurance to getting it replaced so you can quickly and cost-effectively get your car safely back on the road.
Inspecting the Damage
After hearing that ominous popping sound and seeing a crack split across your windshield, the first step is to assess the situation calmly. Pull over to a safe location so you can get out and inspect the damage thoroughly in good light. See if the crack has caused any glass to shatter and fall out, leaving a hole, or if it's just surface cracking that may be repairable. Also, check if the damage is in your direct line of sight when driving. It’s essential to consider your windshield insurance coverage at this point, as it may cover repairs or replacement, reducing your out-of-pocket costs significantly.Determining Windshield Service Needs: Repair or Replacement?
Minor cracks and chips on your windshield can often be repaired rather than requiring a complete, costly replacement. Repairs may suffice if the damage is minor, away from the edges, and not in your direct sightline. Replacement is needed when cracks are longer, spiderwebs are across a large area, or glass loss is caused right in your field of vision. Consulting a car glass replacement service will help determine whether repairs or full windshield replacement is the best option.When Should You Consider Professional Help for Fixing Car Glass?
Any windshield damage requires professional service to ensure safety and proper results. The whole windshield is structurally important for roof support in collisions, so improper installation could compromise safety. Technicians have specialised tools to remove old glass and install new windshields precisely to manufacturers' standards. They also have experience determining if damage can be repaired or if total replacement is required.How to Choose a Repair Service
Selecting the right auto glass company is important to ensure the windshield is properly repaired or replaced. Keep the following factors in mind when evaluating repair shops: Ask for referrals from satisfied customers. Word-of-mouth recommendations from family, friends, or online reviews carry a lot of weight.- Look for shops specialising in auto glass with at least a few years of experience like AIS Windshield Experts. This complex work requires specialised knowledge.
- Check on insurance coverage and whether the shop directly bills your provider. Most insurance includes windshield repair/replacement.
- Taking the time upfront to select an appropriate windshield repair outfit carefully gives peace of mind that your car and safety are in good hands. Rushing the decision or just choosing the cheapest shop often leads to problems down the road.