6 DIY Windshield Repair Mistakes You Should Avoid - AllCarIndex
Besides maintaining your vehicle's structural integrity, a windshield keeps pollution, dust, rainwater, and wind out of your car. Driving around with a damaged or broken windshield reduces visibility, increasing the risk of collision or accident. It also causes airbag deployment malfunction, increasing the risk of being hit by the steering wheel or dashboard in case of a crash. Additionally, you risk being fined if you're caught driving with a broken windshield, since you're a danger to yourself and others.
If you have a chipped or cracked windshield, you may have an expert fix it or do it yourself. However, there are mistakes you should avoid when conducting a DIY windshield repair.
1. Using a do-it-yourself repair kit without experience
Although you may be tempted to use a DIY repair kit so you can quickly fix your windshield issues, doing so may cause more harm. These repair kits require precision, and their improper use can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of accidents and collisions. Working with glass specialists who perform auto or commercial repairs will get you reliable repair support to ensure road safety and an attractive appearance for your vehicle.
2. Waiting for too long
If you wait for too long before repairing your windshield crack or chip, the damage may worsen. When you keep putting it off, it may lead to severe consequences such as visual obstruction, improper airbag deployment, increased risk of ejection from the car in case of an accident, or your vehicle being left without roof support.
3. Failure to read your insurance policy
If you opt for a DIY windshield repair, thinking you'll save on professional fees, think again. Most insurance policies cover windshield replacement or repair. However, the policy becomes invalid when you try to fix the damage yourself. You'll bear the loss if you mess up the repair work because DIY repair kits come without guarantees and warranties. However, if it's found that the kit was defective, you can get a replacement.
4. Not paying attention to the weather
Some DIY repair kits need sunlight or other curing methods that require specific weather conditions and more time to work. Other curing methods require the application of precisely calibrated UV light, which may be expensive to acquire. Failure to use proper curing may weaken the windshield's structure, leading to more problems requiring a replacement. If you use proper curing methods, it will significantly impact the longevity and durability of your windshield repairs.
5. Not consulting a windshield repair professional
While some chipped or cracked windshield damages may be fixed through repairs, some require replacement. Additionally, the positioning of the damage may necessitate a replacement. For example, extensive damage near the windshield perimeter may call for replacement. Consulting a windshield repair professional will help you determine if your windshield damage requires replacement or repair.
6. Ignoring air bubbles
DIY repair kits come with a special liquid resin for filling in the windshield's chipped or cracked area. When using the resin, pay attention to any air bubbles in it as they may negatively impact the entire process, leading to undesired final results.
Endnote
DIY windshield repairs work perfectly when you have automotive repair experience. Consider repairing your windshield with top professionals for better results.