What to Do When Your Windshield Cracks

Can You Drive with a Cracked Windshield?

For the sake of your safety, its crucial that you dont try to drive with a cracked windshield, as cracks that are severe enough may cause your windshield to shatter while youre driving. Rough terrain or potholes can cause vibrations that will only damage your windshield further, and even too much of a fluctuation in temperature is bad news for the glass as well, including parking in the sun or using your heating or AC. Its worth noting, too, that its against the law in many provinces to drive with a damaged windshield, especially if the cracks obscure the drivers view of the road ahead, and you have no way of knowing how or when any current damage will worsen. Why gamble? Book a quick appointment with North Edmonton Kia today and well repair your windshield, good as new. 

How to Stop a Windshield Crack From Spreading

You can stop a crack from spreading by purchasing a windshield repair kit, which will let you clean and sure up small cracks with resin. However, you should be aware that this solution is permanent. It will stop the crack from worsening, but will mean that the area cant be repaired again later, so its worth considering if its worth the cost and effort.

We suggest you skip the hassle (and potential cuts to your fingers!) and book an appointment with a qualified professional right away. This way, you know for sure the damage will be handled perfectly the first time and you wont have to pay out extra to deal with it again later. This is also the most financially sound option, as cracks can quickly become far more expensive, time-consuming problems if a complete windshield replacement is required.

What Not to Do When Your Windshield Is Cracked

The internet can be a pretty double-edged sword when it comes to automotive advice! Here are some common windshield myths that need busting:

• Superglue or nail polish: These come up a lot when Googling how to fix a cracked windshield, but arent to be recommended. Though some drivers may have success spot-fixing their windshield using these materials, its important to remember that they werent designed to bond glass, so at best may not be all that effective. At worst, introducing these substances to your windshield could exacerbate the current damage by making minor cracks more difficult to fix, or requiring a replacement windshield where a repair would have done the job.
• Tape: Tape wont do anything to stop a crack from spreading and will only make things worse by sealing in moisture and dirt. As with superglue and nail polish, attempting to spot-fix your windshield this way will likely only result in you needing a total replacement rather than a simple repair.

Remember: when your windshield is cracked, any rough terrain like potholes or speed bumps will only make it worse by causing vibrations that stress the glass. As well, cold and hot temperatures will cause the glass to expand and contract, compromising its integrity, so be sure to avoid any of those risks until your windshield is fixed. The best thing to do is get your vehicle to a repair shop right away, such as North Edmonton Kia in Edmonton, AB.

Should You Repair or Replace a Cracked Windshield?

Its preferable to get your windshield repaired, as this service is less expensive, less time consuming, and retains the windshields original seating from the manufacturer. However, whether a cracked windshield needs repair or replacing ultimately depends on the scale of the damage:

• Your windshield doesnt need to be repaired when:
  • Cracks dont obstruct the drivers line of sight.
  • Cracks are small and havent spread. 
  • Road debris, a stone, or other source of impact have created a small chip. 
• Your windshield should be replaced when:
  • Cracks are long and have branched significantly.
  • Cracks interrupt the drivers view of the road.
  • Cracks have damaged and branched at the edge of the windshield.
  • Cracks threaten to/have already damaged the internal glass or vinyl.

In either case, its best to get the opinion of a qualified professional with the proper tools to assess and diagnose the extent of the damage. Its best not to guess which service you need and book an appointment right awayfor instance, repair may be possible for cracks ranging up to 7.5cm/3 inches in some cases, so your mileage may vary.

How Long Does it Take to Repair or Replace a Windshield?

Windshield repair is a relatively quick process that takes from 30 minutes to an hour; technicians must clean the class, apply the resin, and then give it enough time to cure. On the other hand, a windshield replacement is a highly delicate process that requires a few hours, both for the careful handling and precise positioning of the glass, and to allow the adhesive to set properly before you hit the road.

Windshield Repair at North Edmonton Kia in Edmonton, AB

Has your windshield recently suffered damage? Dont wait; make an appointment with the experts at North Edmonton Kia in Edmonton, AB and let us handle it! Our factory-trained technicians will get your windshield cleaned up and strong again, ready to weather whatever the road brings your way. Dont forget to check out our current service specials!

To learn more about servicing your Kia, visit Kia.ca.