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Windshield: breakage, risks and repairs

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Khatir Soltani
Windshield: breakage, risks and repairs

All of us have or may have to deal with a broken windshield at one time or another. The breakage is often caused by a jet of gravel on the windshield which can damage it in different ways. 

In winter, with the small stones or salt on the road, it often happens that the vehicles in front of you send, against their will, stones on your windshield. You should be particularly vigilant at this time of year and, if possible, on certain specific roads, double your safety distance, avoid following trucks carrying earth or construction materials, as the debris and dirt falling from them are most often responsible for the damage caused to your windshield. 

Obviously, this is not always possible. It would mean wrapping your car in a plastic bubble to protect it from the elements. Despite all of these protections, it is possible that bad luck will strike your windshield and damage it. In this case, you should call in a professional as soon as possible. He or she will need to assess the damage and clearly answer the question of when to replace a windshield ?

Windshield: breakage, risks and repairs
Windshield: breakage, risks and repairs | Photo: Carglass

Even a small impact can deteriorate very quickly. Vibrations from the pipe, vibrations from a subwoofer, and temperature changes can turn an impact into a crack that is just waiting to grow. Not taking care of it could quickly escalate the situation and cost you dearly.

Unfortunately, some people rely solely on the location of the impact to determine whether or not it should be repaired. Even if it is very small, it is likely to be directly in your field of vision. If it prevents you from seeing even a small portion of the road, it poses a safety hazard to you and others.

When a child, animal or debris gets in your way and you have to make an emergency maneuver, the key is reaction time. Visibility is as critical to a successful maneuver as a good driving position, quality tires and well-maintained mechanics.

In light of this information, the importance of rehabilitating your windshield is undeniable. If you have a busy schedule and it is difficult to get to the center, you should know that many companies have mobile units. Depending on the extent of the damage, all the necessary work can be done in a few minutes without you having to lift a finger. Carglass offers more than 450 centers throughout France.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada