It’s never a good idea to ignore windshield damage. Even if it’s just a small chip, your windshield actually strengthens and supports your vehicle’s body. A damaged windshield cannot stand up to an accident and, as a frightening result, it might shatter. You may see increased body damage after the accident because the windshield couldn’t support it. There are four types of windshield damage that might be able to be fixed or require a complete windshield replacement. Fast Lane Automotive lists them below.
Chips or Dings
Some people call them chips; other people call then dings. These tiny divots in your windshield’s glass cause big problems. Your windshield was most likely chipped by flying road debris, such as small rocks or tire pieces. Chips might seem harmless at first, but they can start a crack as your vehicle vibrates while in operation. Smaller chips can be filled with epoxy; larger chips might require windshield replacement.
Cracks
As mentioned above, cracks are usually started by chips. As you drive along, a crack can radiate – form and spread – from the chipped glass. Cracks can also be caused by larger road debris as well as stress fractures, which might indicate a manufacturing weakness in the windshield’s glass. Extreme temperatures can also crack a windshield. Thankfully, we don’t have that problem here in Orlando.
Stars/Bullseyes
You’re driving along and a big rig in front of you spits a rock through one of its tires and it hits your windshield. You’re left with a beautiful star on your windshield; or, maybe it looks more like a bullseye. As with cracks, bullseyes or stars can form and spread over time if your windshield has a starter crack. They can also happen instantaneously if an object hits your windshield hard enough at high speeds.
Combo Damage
Finally, you might find a combination of the above on your windshield and if you do, it’s time to replace it. Depending on the road debris or weather damage, your windshield might look like a cubist-movement glass piece that rivals any Picasso. If it does it isn’t safe. A combination of chips and cracks or a combination of all three types of damage above mean your car, truck, or SUV’s windshield is weak.
Located in Orlando, FL, Fast Lane Automotive is a phone call away for all of your automotive preventative maintenance and repair needs. Our number is 321-214-7045, and we service domestic and foreign cars, trucks, crossovers, SUVs, and fleet vehicles. Call us today.