Why You Shouldn't Drive Around With A Chipped Windshield
Highlights
- Never drive around with a cracked or chipped windshield
- Get your windshield replaced as soon as possible
- Windshield cracks and chips spread and increase over time
There are a variety of reasons why driving with a chipped windshield is dangerous, and we list out most of them. Let's dive in!
Crack Expansion Over Time
The most common and basic reason behind not driving with a cracked windshield is that the crack will spread with time. A small crack can soon turn into a huge one. Get your windshield fixed before the crack spreads and makes it dangerous for you.
Car integrity suffers as a result.
A windshield not only protects you from dirt, air, etc., but is also a vital component for the safety of your car, along with airbags and seatbelts. The windshield has structural integrity in the range of 45% in the event of a collision from the front. In the event of a roll-over, the range goes up to 60%.
The windshield stops the roof from crushing you, helps with airbag deployment, and helps passengers remain inside the car if a collision or accident happens.
Obstructed Vision
A chipped or cracked windshield will obstruct your clear vision, and you might have trouble driving. This will create problems for you and will affect the safety of others as well as you. The sunlight reflects off the chips and can leave you blinded, thus making you more accident-prone.
Keep your windshield in optimum condition.
Reasons for Increased Cracks Overtime
Debris and dirt
Debris and dirt can cause the windshield cracks to widen and spread. It is only temporary to place tape over it. You should head to your nearest repair shop and get your windshield replaced.
Bump in the Road
Any vibration or movement can cause the cracks in the windshield to spread. This results in compromised safety. Don't drive poorly, apply forceful brakes, or even drive over potholes. Though cracks and chips will worsen over time, it does not matter if you drive carefully.
What should you do?
You should never drive around with a cracked or chipped windshield. You should not try to fix your windshield on your own with the DIY kits now available on the market. You should take your car to the nearest repair shop and let the professionals and experts do their job. Get your windshield repaired by a professional and be safe again.
One thing to note is that all DIY people want to save money by skipping a trip to the repair shop and doing it themselves. However, this will only increase your costs if you mess it up in any way.
Also, remember that your warranty will become void once you mess up your shoddy repair job.