If your windshield has a chip or a crack, this can be a major concern. You might wonder about safety issues and whether you can continue to drive your vehicle with the damage. You must also consider whether you should repair or replace your windshield. Deciding that can be tricky, so use the following questions and answers to help you make the right choice.
How Old Is Your Car?
First, remember the age of your car. While this isn’t the most important factor, it does figure in. If, for instance, you have a top new Jeep for sale, you may be more inclined to replace the windshield so that the vehicle remains in pristine condition and holds its value. If your car is older and already has a few dings and nicks, you may be more willing to settle for a repair.
How Bad Is the Damage?
The most important question to ask yourself, however, is how bad the damage is. If a crack is shorter than 12 inches, you may be able to have it repaired. The same holds true for bullseye chips that are less than an inch across. Look, too, at how deep the crack or chip is. If it’s only on the outer layer of the glass, a repair will usually work just fine.
On the other hand, if a crack extends more than 12 inches or a chip is larger than an inch, your windshield probably needs to be replaced. This is also the case if the chip or crack reaches deeply into the glass or is close to the edge of your windshield. So look closely at the damage and determine how bad it really is. That’ll give you important clues about whether you need to repair or replace.
Is It Safe to Drive?
You should also determine if your car is safe to drive in its current state. While this may not tell you a lot about repairing or replacing your windshield, it will certainly let you know how fast you must get the job done. If you can’t see properly through your windshield because of a chip or crack, this definitely affects your safety. You must contact a professional at once, and you’ll probably need a windshield replacement if the damage is bad enough to obstruct your vision.What Is the Cost?
Finally, cost certainly plays a role in your decision about whether to repair or replace your windshield. Repairs are generally less expensive than replacements. So if your damage is borderline, you may want to try a repair so that you can stay within your budget. Be aware, though, that you might have further issues down the road and that, in some cases, a replacement will simply be a necessity.
Repair or Replace?
At this point, you should have the information you need to make a good decision about whether to have your car’s windshield repaired or replaced. So take a close look at the damage, and then call in the experts to do the job so that you can get back out on the road quickly and safely.
