Car windshield cracks can be a nagging hassle, but they’re even worse when they spread. It can be risky at times as it reduces your visibility, endangering your life and those of other road users.
As you visit the car windshield repair shop, you may be torn between investing in a basic repair or an auto glass replacement. The experts at the store can assess your damage and advise accordingly. However, here are seven common signs that show you need a replacement, not just a car window repair.
1. A Blocked View
A surprising number of truck drivers and car owners still drive with a crack, discoloration, or chip on the windshield. You need to be ready to make split-second decisions while on the road, all of which can be hampered by blind spots on your windshield. If you notice that your vision is distorted by cracks or marks, it’s time to get an auto glass replacement.
2. Cracked Windshield
Cracks below four inches may not necessitate car window replacement services. Federal law states that cracks and chips smaller than three-quarters of an inch are permissible. For that, you may only need car window repair services. However, they should be three inches away from any other dents or cracks and should not be present within the driver’s view. It is quite dangerous driving with a cracked windshield as it can cave in, causing untold damage.
3. Improper Repair or Replacement
Not all auto glass replacement shops are equal. If you are not careful, you may end up with technicians that offer subpar car window repair services. If the windshield repair doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to redo the work. If you notice weird noises or cold drafts, call Auto Glass Services NW.
4. Vehicle Safety Inspection Is Fast Approaching
Your vehicle may be due for a safety inspection. A damaged windscreen may cause you to fail the test. It would be smarter to have an auto glass replacement than hoping the cracks aren’t that severe to trigger a failure.
5. Too Many Scratches
Scratches are quite common on most windshields. However, heavy scratching can obstruct the view of the driver, necessitating a replacement. Rather than putting you, your passengers, and other drivers at risk, it’s better to fix the issue by getting a new auto glass.
6. Horrid Winters
Winters in Oregon can be pretty torrid at times. The layers of snow weighing down on the windshield and the frigid temperatures may eventually expand the existing cracks and chips. This necessitates an auto glass replacement. If your windshield took a beating this winter, head over to our Portland auto glass shop for a replacement.
7. Missing Auto Glass Parts
You would be surprised by the sheer number of drivers that duct tape a clear tarp on a missing glass piece to continue driving. If your windshield has missing parts, you have no other choice but to replace the unit. Missing parts can cause the glass to sag, endangering your life and those of your passengers.
Have Your Windshield Replaced Today
Windshields are vital features in any vehicle. Looking for the signs above can guide you on whether you need a repair or an auto glass replacement. If you are still second-guessing yourself, call our team at Auto Glass Services NW. We offer reliable windshield replacement and other car window repair services.
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