How to Prevent Windshield Chips
It seems like you pick up a rock chip on your windshield every time you go on a road trip. Unfortunately, there’s no full-proof way to avoid ever getting a chip or crack on your windshield, but there are several things you can do to help prevent it from happening. If you’re wondering how to prevent windshield chips, read on. We’ve put together a shortlist of some easy tips to help prevent auto glass damage.
5 Best Windshield Maintenance Tips
1. Avoid Gravel Roads
This may seem obvious, but we can’t stress this enough. It’s one thing to take “the road less traveled,” but driving on gravel roads is too risky for most vehicles. Unless you drive a hefty pickup truck, you might want to stay away from back country roads. Now, this isn’t always possible in some neighborhoods or towns, so if you must, drive slower than usual with lots of caution.
2. Steer Clear of Dump Trucks & Semis
a. It’s almost certain that you’ll pick up a nasty rock chip if you drive nearby an eighteen-wheeler or dump truck. Most use large mud flaps which typically kick up rocks way more often than other vehicles. Also, if you notice a truck pulling off the main roadway onto a gravel road, definitely stay away. If possible, avoid driving around these trucks.
3. Don’t Tailgate
Not only is tailgating annoying to other drivers, you’re exposing yourself and your car to more danger and possible damage. The closer you drive behind another vehicle, the higher the chances are that your car’s windshield will get damaged by rocks or debris. Although smaller vehicles don’t typically use mud flaps, the close vicinity will increase the risk of damage or damage. Try to maintain a healthy distance between you and the car ahead of you. (We recommend three car lengths distance).
4. Drive the Speed Limit
Driving the speed limit greatly reduces the chances of rocks or debris kicking up and damaging your auto glass. Clearly, the faster you drive down the highway, rocks have less of a chance to hit the ground first and lose momentum. Instead, they’ll be coming straight at you at 100mph! That means any damage is going to be much more profound and dangerous. Not to mention, it will cost you a lot more since you’ll most likely need a windshield replacement.
5. Take the Scenic Route
This is a tip that will not only do your car good, but also your mind! Taking the scenic route is much safer for your car’s auto glass, as there is typically not very much traffic on these roads. Not only will you prevent damage to your car, you’ll get to take in all the views you normally miss when sitting in traffic on the main highway! For short commutes, try to take the scenic route when possible.
If you’re in need of windshield repair or replacement, give us a call today and we can come out to assess the damage to your car’s glass. It’s important to take care of any minor chips or cracks as quickly as possible, before they spread and worsen.