A cracked windshield is one of the most common issues that drivers have to deal with. A chip or crack can be caused by everyday driving hazards such as debris and changes in temperature or air pressure. Whatever the reason, drivers should consider having a windshield repair or replacement to prevent further damage.
When faced with this problem, car owners often wonder how long they can drive with a cracked windshield and how soon to replace it. If you find yourself in this situation, the following will help answer these questions.
Can you drive with a cracked windshield?
The simple answer is yes — you can drive with a cracked windshield. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. In certain states, tickets and fines can be issued for damaged windshields, putting an even bigger dent in your pocket.
A crack could also pose a safety hazard to you and your passengers for a few reasons. Firstly, driving with a cracked window can obstruct your view, especially if the error is on the left-hand side. Also, damage to your vehicle’s glass can compromise the structural integrity of the windshield. In serious cases, a sudden impact could cause your window to shatter completely. Since windshields are made of multiple layers of glass, the fractured bits are unlikely to fall out. However, a shattered windshield is sure to block your view of the road.
So, can you drive with a cracked windshield? Yes. However, If the damage is serious, repairing or replacing your windshield as soon as possible is probably your best bet. If you’re dealing with chips or a small crack, you can wait a bit longer before getting your car fixed up.
How long can you drive with a cracked windshield?
It can be tricky to decide how soon to replace a broken windshield. Depending on the size and severity of the damage, you can go days, weeks, or even months before repairing or replacing your windshield. Although it may be safe to drive with a minor flaw in your vehicle’s glass, the longer you wait, the more likely you are to experience further damage. Any additional impact, such as bumps in the road, can cause even tiny windshield chips or a small crack to grow into a larger problem.
It is in your best interest to get a cracked windshield repaired sooner than later to avoid having the entire windshield replaced in the future. Getting a crack repaired is a far more affordable and timely procedure than having a full-blown replacement. Look out for your future self by tackling the problem as soon as you can. If you’re deciding how soon to replace a broken windshield with more severe damage, the answer is as soon as possible.
Text taken from: https://autoglassfitters.com
