Windshields are an essential component of automobiles. They offer protection from various elements and flying debris, such as dust and insects. The protection enhances visual navigation, allowing car owners to drive with ease. As such, windshields should be sturdy and free from defects to ensure road safety. Defects can stem from easily noticeable cracks, rock chips, and minor scratches. You can maintain your windshield by making frequent repairs to prevent such defects. However, sometimes the damage might be severe, forcing you to get a windshield replacement. Here are four signs that your car needs a new windshield.
Having a Blurred Vision
Having a clear vision when driving is essential because it lets you see the road clearly. If you have a chip or crack on your windscreen, you might mistake it for another vehicle, or it may cause a blind spot, leading to a fatal accident. The police will accuse you of driving a damaged vehicle, making you responsible for the accident. As such, you should go for a windshield replacement to ensure you have a better view of the road to avoid accidents.
Having a Pitted Windscreen
If you regularly drive on busy highways, your windshield may be exposed to flying debris, such as small rocks. The constant knocking of the windshield leads to pits forming on its surface when hit by direct sunlight. They usually scatter reflected sunlight which interferes with your vision when driving. As such, if you do not go for a windshield replacement, you might cause an accident, especially when driving during the summer. Pitted windscreens are also dangerous during rainstorms because they slow the shedding of water.
Having Missing Pieces on the Windshield
It is common to see people covering missing sections of their windshield with duct tape as a quick fix instead of making the necessary replacement. Although the cover-ups may protect you from various elements and debris, windshields provide structural support that maintains your car's frame. Failing to replace your windscreen can cause the car's frame to sag, leading to further damage. Even after windshield replacement, cars with sagged frames need further repairs due to glass alignment issues. Thus, you must avoid using cover-ups and replace the entire windshield to ensure the car's frame is intact.
When Preparing for a Safety Inspection
Car inspections ensure vehicles are roadworthy and do not jeopardize passengers' safety. You will fail a car safety inspection if your car has a cracked windshield. This is because the central premise of a car inspection is to ensure the vehicle is in good condition and is not risky to other road users. Instead of using cover-ups, you should go for a windshield replacement before the inspection.
For more information on windshield replacement, contact a company near you.
