4 Reasons to Replace Uncracked Auto Glass
Your vehicle's glass doesn't have to be chipped or badly cracked in order to need replacing. Not all damages are the result of a rock chip or broken windshield. Less obvious damages can begin to affect your vehicle, particularly if it's older. These damages may not look severe, but they can compromise visibility as well as the safety of your car. The good news is that simply replacing the damaged but uncracked glass will solve the problem quickly and effectively.
1. Sand Pitting
Over time sand and other debris on the road can cause small pits or scratches over the surface of your windshield. When this happens, you may notice that there is always a glare at night, no matter how clean and streak-free the windshield. Sand pitting gradually reduces visibility over time, making it less safe to drive when glares are common such as at night or when the sun is low on the horizon. Extensive pitting can't typically be repaired, so older pitted windshields are best replaced.
2. Wiper Hazing
Over time your windshield wipers can permanently haze the glass. The cause is from grit trapped under the blades, which is then scraped across the windshield during operation. The results are arced scratches in the glass that will permanently interfere with visibility. Changing the blades often and never using the wipers on dry glass can prevent wiper hazing. If hazing has already occurred, though, then a new windshield may be the only way to solve the issue.
3. Failing Seals
Your front windshield is only as durable as the seal that holds it in place. The same goes for any other fixed glass in the car, such as the rear window or any non-opening accessory windows. Leaky seals are typically noticeable the first time it rains, as water will come in around the edges of the glass. These leaks indicate seal failure is imminent, and you don't want to drive a vehicle where the glass could fall out. Seal replacement is sometimes possible, but in other cases, you may also need new glass.
4. Defrost Malfunction
For windows with integrated systems, the failure of the integrated system may lead to a need to replace the glass. It can be dangerous to drive a car with a failed system, for example, a car with constantly foggy rear windows due to failed defrost lines. Typically the integrated system can't be replaced individually, so a whole replacement window is a must.
Contact an auto glass replacement service if you find yourself in need of a new windshield or other auto glass product.
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