How to Know When Your Car’s Windscreen Needs Replacing
A damaged windscreen isn’t just a small inconvenience—it can be a serious safety risk.
Let’s talk about how to spot the signs that your windscreen needs replacing and why acting quickly is so important.
Why Your Windscreen is So Important
Your windscreen does more than just keep the wind and rain out. It’s actually a really key part of your car’s structure, helping support the roof and keeping you safe in an accident.
It also ensures your airbags deploy properly when needed. Even a small crack can weaken the windscreen and put you seriously at risk in ways you don’t expect, so it’s not something to ignore.
How to Spot a Windscreen Problem
There are clear signs that your windscreen might need replacing. If the damage is larger than a 50-cent coin, it’s likely too big to repair.
Cracks that spread or reach the edges of the windscreen can also compromise its strength. If you’ve noticed a chip or crack that’s growing over time, don’t wait—it’s only going to get worse.
Damage in your line of sight can be particularly dangerous. Even a small chip can refract light, causing glare and making it harder to see.
Multiple chips or cracks, no matter how small, can add up to a bigger problem, reducing your visibility and the windscreen’s strength.
Common Causes of Windscreen Damage
Understanding what causes damage can help you prevent it in the future, saving you both stress and money. Flying debris, like rocks or gravel kicked up by other vehicles, is one of the most common culprits.
Extreme temperature changes can also cause cracks or make existing ones worse. For example, blasting the heater onto a frosty windscreen can cause the glass to expand too quickly.
Over time, wear and tear, faulty installation, or poor-quality glass can also lead to issues.
What to Do About a Damaged Windscreen
If you spot a chip or crack, act quickly. Small chips can often be repaired if addressed early, but waiting too long could mean a full replacement. A professional mechanic can assess the damage and recommend the right solution for your car.
When replacing your windscreen, quality matters. High-quality glass and proper installation are crucial to avoid leaks, noise, and structural issues. Trust an experienced professional to do the job right—it’s not worth cutting corners when it comes to safety.
Tips to Protect Your Windscreen
To reduce the risk of damage, keep your distance from vehicles carrying loose debris, especially trucks. Avoid sudden temperature changes, like pouring hot water on an icy windscreen.
And don’t forget to regularly clean your windscreen and replace wiper blades to prevent scratches that can weaken the glass over time!
Is your windscreen showing signs of damage? Don’t let a small crack turn into a big problem. At VP Auto Care, we’ve been helping Melbourne drivers stay safe on the road for over 20 years. Located in Tullamarine, our experienced team can inspect, repair, or replace your windscreen with precision and care.
Visit us online or call (03) 9335 2488 to book your service today. Drive with confidence—choose VP Auto Care!