Cracked windshields seem like a minor issue but can cause big trouble if not repaired in a timely fashion. Small cracks spread with time, allowing debris, dirt, and moisture inside your vehicle. They decrease your car’s value and distract you while driving, resulting in fatal accidents. Therefore, you must never ignore windshield cracks and have them repaired by hiring auto professionals near you!
Continue reading to find out why you must never ignore your car’s windshield cracks!
1. Continuing Damage
Once your windshield is cracked, the damage will continue to spread throughout the windshield. Temperature fluctuation and harsh weather conditions will adversely affect the windshield, causing the glass to expand and contract. This causes spider webbing around the crack.
Pressure changes also cause the windshield cracks to spread. Avoid slamming the car doors when all windows are up to minimize damage. Otherwise, intense and sudden vibrations will increase the crack size and risk windshield shattering.
2. Debris Collection
Ignoring your cracked windshield will cause debris and dust to embed in the damaged area. Once debris accumulates on your damaged windshield, it can be impossible to clean. Repair eligibility depends on the damage’s size, depth and location. We use special techniques to inject and cure resin in eligible damage, helping limit spreading. Rock chip repair is not cosmetic restoration, and the repaired area may remain visible.
3. Accidents
Windshields play a vital role in your safety if you’re ever in an accident. They prevent the roof from caving in during a car flip. In this context, cracked windshields won’t support the car’s roof, endangering anyone inside the vehicle during an accident.
4. Airbag Failure
In some vehicles, the windshield helps support the passenger airbag during deployment. Damage can compromise that support, but a crack does not establish that the entire airbag system will fail. Have damaged glass assessed to help protect your safety while driving.
5. Increased Repair Costs
A small crack widens with time, requiring increased repair costs. If the damage becomes extensive, your windshield will need more than a resin treatment. In the worst case, you might need to replace your car’s windshield altogether!
6. Safety and Inspection Requirements
Rules affecting driving with damaged glass depend on the jurisdiction and vehicle type. Since January 1, 2025, Texas has not required a safety inspection before registration for non-commercial vehicles. Emissions testing still applies where required, and commercial vehicles still require safety inspections. A cracked windshield should still be professionally assessed for safety.
Considering all the bad outcomes of a cracked windshield, we suggest you should get it repaired immediately! Contact Auto Glass in San Antonio today and have your windshields inspected by our experts!
