Best Ways to deal with car windshield scratches

Getting a scratch on your car’s windshield is as annoying as it is dangerous. It is also a commonplace occurrence. A car windshield scratch can hinder the driver’s visibility and compromise passengers’ safety. So, it is imperative to resolve the problem quickly, especially when the scratches are minor.

Once you have identified the cause of the scratch and how deep the damage is, you can figure out the best way to deal with it.

What is a Windshield Made of?

Windshields are made of laminated glass that offers the highest degree of safety against injuries and accidents. The laminated glass consists of three layers – a layer of vinyl between two sheets of glass — all stuck together under extreme heat and pressure in a specialized oven known as an autoclave. Because of this construction, only the outer layer of the windshield sustains damage (typically minor scratches) in the case of moderate impact.

Such scratches cannot be fixed, the only permanent solution to scratches is getting a replacement of the windshield. There might be short-term solutions available in the market which make false claims, but there is no long-term fix for the scratches.

Why Does a Scratch on Your Windshield Deserve Attention?

Your vehicle's front glass provides structural integrity to the car, and a damaged windshield can affect the car roof's strength. A crack, scratch, or chip can bring the whole roof down in case of a collision or traffic mishap. And if you are driving with a cracked windshield unattended for a long time, it poses the danger of caving in in case of some heavy, even mild external impact. Car window glass repairing and replacement is also crucial because a small chip is just a disaster waiting to take place - it can spiral into a large and deep crack soon for which only a replacement may suffice. Additionally, the car front glass also supports the appropriate and timely deployment of the front airbags; however, once damaged, its ability to do so correctly is affected, severely exposing the life of occupants to danger.

What Can Cause Scratches on Your Windshield?

Many everyday things can damage a car's windshield. Here are some common causes of windshield scratches:

1. Defective Wiper Blades

The surface of the windshield's wiper blades, upon ageing and neglect, can become hardened, causing scratches, especially when the glass is dry. The same can happen if there is a small object, like a pebble, trapped under the blades.

2. Improper Cleaning

If you use a rough/dirty cloth to clean your windshield, scratches can appear on it now and then. Using a soft microfiber or cotton cloth is the best way for safe and proper cleaning.

3. Road Debris

Scratches are also caused by rocks and pebbles flying into your windshield off the road, especially when you are driving behind trucks and lorries as they trap-rocks on the road easily. By understanding these common causes, you can take preventive measures to protect your windshield from scratches.

Tips for Preventing Scratches

The first step in identifying a scratch is determining if it is a surface scratch or a deep scratch. A shallow surface scratch will feel smooth to touch when you run your finger across it. A deep scratch, though, will grow over time and may even need a complete car windshield replacement. You can arrest the speed at which the scratch grows at home, but the best course of action will be to seek professional help. However, the good news here is that you can easily prevent this from happening by employing a few safety measures beforehand.

Here are some tips to keep the scratches at bay.

1. Wipers - The Most Important Tool for a Scratch-Free Windshield

Car wipers are often underestimated, but they play a crucial role in preserving your windshield. Running dry wipers on a dusty windshield can be like using sandpaper. To avoid this, wet your windshield before using wipers. Wiper blades wear out, especially in hot climates, making them prone to damaging your windshield. Replacing them early is a small but vital investment in your safety.

2. Top Up Your Wiper Fluids

One of the easiest ways to ensure a scratch-free windshield is to keep the wiper fluid reservoir filled. A suitable wiper fluid plays a more significant role in windshield maintenance than you might expect. Also, a bottle of high-quality wiper fluid is inexpensive and would not hurt you in the least if you had it stocked in your garage all year round. Also, for the sake of your wiper blades’ cleanliness and health, make sure your wiper fluid is checked regularly, preferably once per month. However, if you want to protect your windshield from scratches, remember to top it off whenever you are at the fuel station and follow these tips to give your car windshield and wipers some love that they deserve.

3. Use the Right Cloth and Right Cleaner

Scratches can also pop up on your car windshield through improper or insufficient cleaning of the glass. Therefore, to clean your windscreen correctly and without causing additional damage, use a soft microfiber cloth during wipe downs. Do not forget to properly pre-rinse your car windshield nice and wet when you start cleaning it. Also, make sure to use a cleaner free of ammonia when cleaning your windscreen. Using an ammonia-based cleaner can dehydrate your car windshield ‘s glass, causing discoloration and cracks.

4. Park Your Car the Right Way

Parking your car out in the open is bound to introduce your windshield to some foreign objects, such as leaves, debris, and a whole lot of dust. This exposure can lead to excess minor scratches on your windshield, not visible to the naked eye. These little scratches can develop into more prominent ones over time, leading to an unusable windshield and an un-drivable car. So, it is better to park it in an enclosed space, preferably a garage, to protect your car’s windshield from any gases. Plus, as an added benefit, parking your car in a confined spot also helps regulate its internal temperature.

5. Get Small Scratches Fixed Right Away

If your car windshield is already adorned with some minor scratches, you must fix them immediately, lest they transform into more prominent, scarier scratches. It is recommended to repair it at a reputable car-care service since standard or sub-standard service will do more harm than good. Though a renowned service will cost you more, it will save you expenses in the long run. Before you start dealing with the scratch, clean your windshield with soap and warm water, unless there is a risk of the scratch expanding. Mark the area to be repaired with a dry-erase marker on the undamaged side.

How to Deal with Windshield Scratches

1. Assess the Severity:

Examine the scratches on your windshield to determine their depth and extent. Some scratches can be superficial, while others may be deeper.

2. DIY Methods for Surface Scratches:

Numerous DIY methods, such as toothpaste and baking soda, are readily accessible on the internet for windshield scratch repair. While these DIY solutions can be effective for minor scratches, it is essential to be aware of their potential risks and limitations. For optimal results and to mitigate any risks, we strongly advise consulting a professional for addressing more substantial damage to your windshield.

3. Seek Professional Repair for Deep Scratches:

If the scratches are deep or extensive, it is best to consult a professional. They may offer services like:

Windshield Replacement: In severe cases, a full windshield replacement may be necessary. Windshield Experts has a wide network of specialized glass repair & replacement shops.

How Can I Avoid Scratching my Windshield in the Future?

To keep your windshield safe, maintain a safe distance from large trucks to prevent damage. Parking in the shade can help, as hot temperatures can weaken the glass. If you do get a scratch or chip, fix it promptly to prevent it from becoming a major crack.

For avoiding future car windshield scratches, follow the below tips:

• Use a soft cloth for cleaning.
• Follow a straight motion when cleaning.
• Remove debris before cleaning.
• Maintain wiper blades.
• Be cautious with chemicals and scraping tools.
• Protect from ice and snow carefully.
• Keep the glass clean.
• Treat minor scratches promptly.
• Drive at a safe distance to avoid road debris.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Windscreen Scratches Be Removed?

Can Windscreen Scratches Be Removed? (H3) Yes, windscreen scratches can often be removed. The success of removing scratches depends on their depth and severity. If you have minor scratches, it is advisable to consult with a professional to assess the best course of action for your specific situation.

Is Toothpaste Able to Remove Scratches from The Windshield?

Do not use toothpaste to remove scratches from your windshield. It is designed for teeth, not glass, and can make the scratches worse.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Scratched Windshield?

The cost of repairing scratched windshield in India can vary depending on the car model, make year, and severity of the damage. To get an exact quote, please contact your nearest AIS Windshield Experts service Centre.

How To Avoid Scratches on The Windscreen?

You can avoid scratches on the windscreen by checking wipers regularly, checking wiper fluids, and parking your car in an enclosed space.

Why AIS Windshield Experts for Windshield Scratches?

Regardless of the damage that your windshield has suffered, we help fix it with our 100+ service centers in 60+ cities. At AIS Windshield Experts, we provide professional support and on-the-spot windshield repair and replacement - you will be in and out of the store in no time. As India's largest automotive glass repair and replacement network, we are your answer to reliable and world-class windshield crack repair services. Contact us today to experience the speedy resolution of your windshield problems. Give us a call on our helpline number today!