Despite doing your best to take care of your car, there is always a risk of something happening when driving it. Your tire may blow out or you might get into an accident. But what happens next when your windshield cracks? Most car owners postpone repairs depending on how severe the crack is. However, a crack—no matter how minor—on the windshield should never be ignored, and here is why.
It Could Worsen Over Time
Although the glass on your windshield is tempered, there are some cases where it may crack. It could crack when something heavy falls on it or from impact after an accident. While the crack may appear small and insignificant, if ignored, even the tiniest cracks will grow.
Additionally, a crack becomes a weak spot on your windshield that is easily worsened by dirt and vibration when driving on uneven roads. The crack could worsen or the windshield could shatter if you continue using your car. So, get windshield repair before it worsens. Professionals may recommend repairs using an adhesive or could recommend a complete windshield replacement, depending on the situation.
Safety Concerns
Every driver should ensure their car is in the best condition before driving it. A cracked windshield raises a safety concern since it is the first defense against external conditions like weather, bugs, and other factors. A windshield should offer structural support. Unfortunately, a cracked windshield doesn't provide the needed support and can easily shatter in the event of an accident, increasing the risk of injury.
Windshields also make airbags effective since when the airbag deploys, it first hits the windshield before spreading outward. When an airbag deploys in a car with a faulty windshield, the airbag will deploy upward instead of outward, rendering it ineffective.
Legal Issues
Different states have different rules on driving. Some consider driving with a cracked windshield illegal, citing that it creates a dangerous situation due to an obstructed view. Even if the law in your state doesn't state this, it is better and safer to get your windshield repaired before driving. Besides, you don't want to get a ticket or pay hefty fines for a simple windshield problem that you can resolve.
Take Action
On the surface, a crack on your windshield may appear like minor cosmetic damage that won't affect functionality. However, the reality is that a cracked windshield will create a string of issues when ignored. Every component of your car, including your windshield, plays an essential role in protecting passengers. So, consider getting emergency windshield repair as soon as it cracks to avoid escalated issues.
Contact a local auto repair shop to learn more.
Have you ever noticed how similar with words "car" and "care" are before? This could just be a coincidence, but it is also helpful. The similarity of the two words serves to remind you that your car requires care. You should take it to the auto service shop regularly for oil changes, to have the tires rotated, and to have the brakes serviced. Neglect this care, and your car may not keep working very long, and it may not even be safe to drive. We invite you to read more about auto service and auto care on this blog, where we delve into such topics in more detail.