If your vehicle’s windshield has been cracked or chipped, it may be tempting to put off dealing with it. However, driving with a damaged windshield can increase the chance of having accidents, reduce car chassis strength, and even compromise airbag deployment. Here’s all you need to know about the risks and when to schedule auto glass replacement.

Why You Should Fix Chipped or Cracked Windshield Glass

The Dangers of Windshield Damage

Driving with a cracked or chipped windshield can cause visibility issues for drivers, which increases the likelihood of having an accident. However, windshields serve purposes beyond simple viewing screens. They also act as major structural components for most modern cars and are designed to protect passengers from front-end impacts. As a result, cracked windshields increase the chance of the safety glass failing or the roof collapsing during a rollover accident. A front-end collision can put the driver at increased risk as well.

Additionally, windshields are utilized in airbag design and play a major role in directing the inflating bags toward car occupants. A damaged windshield may break under the force of airbag deployment and puncture the safety feature.

When to Repair or Replace

Windshields are made of a layer of vinyl resin sandwiched between two layers of glass. This safety glass keeps broken pieces from flying out and causing injury or death during impacts.

If the safety layer of vinyl resin has been compromised from severely chipped or cracked glass, or damages are around the edge of the glass near the frame, the windshield is unsafe to repair and should be replaced. Auto glass replacement should also occur if damages are directly in the driver’s line of sight, there are more than three cracks or chips in the glass, or the glass is covered with tiny pockmarks or divots.

If windshield cracks or chips are isolated and smaller than the width of a credit card, it’s likely safe to conduct auto glass repairs instead of replacement. Schedule repairs as soon as you notice any damage to prevent cracks or chips from spreading and requiring replacement.

Ohs' Body Shop has provided expert auto glass replacement and repair throughout Kalispell, MT, and Flathead Valley for more than 40 years. They offer a diverse selection of services, including 24-hour towing and lifetime warranties on all their work. Their experienced auto body shop specializes in all aspects of collision repair, auto body repair, and auto body paint. They also offer bumper repair and paintless dent repair. Visit their website or call them at 406-752-8202 to get your quote today.