5 Useful Windshield Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Car in Top Condition

Since we get asked all the time, we have put together a list of a few windshield maintenance tips you can put into practice to keep your car’s windows damage-free.

Let’s be honest. These days, we depend on our cars more than ever. Unfortunately, owning anything –be it a house or an automobile–comes with regular maintenance.

You can get away with putting off some repairs, but not when it comes to your car’s windshield.

If left damaged, a minor windshield chip or crack could quickly turn into a major safety risk for yourself and others. Because of this, we always recommend repairing any auto glass damage as quickly as possible.

The good thing is that any damage to your car’s glass should be an easy fix for any reputable auto glass technician, and generally won’t cost you a pretty penny.

5 Best Windshield Maintenance Tips

1. Avoid Stone and Gravel Threats

If your typical commute passes through a construction zone or gravel road, you might consider taking a different route. Gravel and rocks being kicked up by other vehicles is the number one cause of windshield damage. Although you may not be able to avoid every rock, you can significantly reduce your chances by taking a route with newer, well-maintained roads.

2. Keep Out of Hail Storms

It might seem obvious, but you would be surprised at the number of calls we get after hail storms. Although hail can be less destructive than other natural disasters, it’s not to be taken lightly. There is just no way one can predict the size a hail stone will be from one minute to another. If you know a storm is brewing, don’t risk driving on the road. Take shelter immediately and wait out the storm. Trust us, you will be doing yourself and billfold a huge favor!

3. Always Keep Your Windshield Wipers in Good Condition

Even though windshield wipers are a must, and are usually helpful, old or tattered wipers can actually cause problems to your auto glass. If not properly maintained or replaced when necessary, they can collect debris and scratch your front or rear glass. Make sure you check them every so often to make sure they are functioning properly and aren’t broken in any places.

4. Stay Away From Questionable Areas

While this tip might seem like common sense, we can’t stress this enough. Try to avoid areas of town that are known for break-ins and vandalism. It may sound easy, but you can’t hide from every suspicious area. Even in well-to-do neighborhoods, break-ins are a reality. Only park in well-lit parking lots or spaces. Try to not leave valuables in your car, being that this is the #1 reason cars are vandalized.

5. Repair Any Cracks Immediately

There are endless reasons as to why you should get any repairs fixed immediately. If you delay, the smallest thing could cause chips or cracks to expand and get worse. If you slam on the brakes, hit a pothole on the road, or get into a minor fender bender, your windshield is at risk of shattering at any moment. Not to mention, the weather in Texas can be so unpredictable. Water that enters a chip or crack can freeze and expand, breaking your car glass in the middle of winter.

Waiting and thinking the crack isn’t “that bad” is the worse thing you can do. Get any damage taken care of by a professional as quickly as possible.

As a car owner, it’s impossible to avoid every rock or potential hazard. However, it’s your responsibility as a driver to make sure you’re doing your part to keep the roads safe. Make sure you take care of any lingering repairs that need fixing.

If you notice any minor scratches or chips, give us a call and we’ll come to you for an inspection!