A car’s windshield is an absolutely essential element for your safety while out driving. This is why general windshield maintenance is just as important as any other vehicle maintenance, including routine oil changes and tire rotation, just to name a few. We know as adults, we have a lot of things on our plate, and it’s very easy to put off certain tasks that don’t seem as important or as high priority of some other items on your never-ending To Do List! You know what we’re talking about – that list that keeps getting longer…and longer…and longer… ☺ 

To reduce the risk of windshield damage such as chipped or cracked windshield, keeping up with general windshield maintenance can help keep windshield replacement off that list! Windshields have multiple structural and safety functions including: a visual aid, a protective shield, a fundamental safety unit, and an integral part to aid in proper deployment of airbags.

Because of their significant role in car safety, which ultimately protects your loved ones when driving, windshield maintenance should be one of your prime concerns when caring for your car. The BEST way to do this is by keeping your windshield in the best shape as possible with routine maintenance and quick action when a professional windshield repair or windshield replacement is necessary.

TIPS FOR WINDSHIELD MAINTENANCE:

WINDSHIELD WIPERS

Most people don’t think about replacing their vehicle’s windshield wipers very often. Although we get a lot of rain during Arizona’s monsoon season, we don’t get a lot of snow in the valley during the winter months. So honestly, our wipers don’t get as much use as other parts of the state or other areas with more wintery climate changes. However, our cars, including our windshields and windshield wipers, are exposed to major heat and sun during most of the year and this exposure can wear down and erode our windshield wipers, which in turn can cause windshield damage. How do we combat this?? Cleaning your windshield wipers regularly to remove the grime, dirt, and debris, as well as replacing your windshield wipers every 6 months, is highly recommended.

WINDSHIELD CLEANING

As mentioned above, one of the functions of windshields is to provide a protective shield and a clear line of vision for the driver. If your windshield is constantly building up dirt and debris over time, not only does this negatively affect the driver’s sight while operating the vehicle, but it can cause damage over time, resulting in worsening of chipped or cracked windshields. We recommend the following steps:

1. Wipe down the windshield with a clean dry microfiber cloth to remove all visible dirt.
2. Use another clean microfiber cloth and a bit of rubbing alcohol to remove any lingering grease or other contaminants from the windshield.
3. Spray auto glass cleaner onto another clean microfiber towel and using a circular motion, clean the entire windshield, focusing on the edges and wipers. 
4. Make sure you completely dry the windshield – otherwise you may notice streaks or residue.

WEATHER CHANGES 

Weather changes and weather extremes are known to make windshield damage more likely. In Arizona, we can blame it on our scorching heat and endless sun. Sure, we tell ourselves “It’s a dry heat” and “the other 9 months of the year are PERFECT” but the Arizona sun is like no other!! Although we can’t change the weather (we sure wish we could sometimes ☺), we can get in the habit of protecting our car and windshield from the sun when we are able to. Parking in the shade or preferably a covered spot can help protect our windshield from UV damage. Other things, like using a windshield sunshade or tinting our windshields can help protect the interior and the exterior of our vehicles.

WINDSHIELD REPAIR VS. WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT

If you do end up with a chipped windshield, please try to get it repaired as soon as possible to help avoid a full windshield replacement. Time is off the essence here if you are hoping that a windshield repair will suffice! However, if you have a cracked windshield, the best and safest option will likely be to replace your windshield. If you aren’t sure if your windshield can be repaired or replaced, call Auto Glass 2020 today at (480) 283-7751 or get a quote here and we can assess your windshield damage and provide you with the best service in town!