How to Fix a Cracked Windshield: A Comprehensive Guide
Nobody wants their day ruined by a rock hitting their windshield while out for a drive. But if it does happen, it’s important to repair the damage as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and requiring a full windshield replacement. Thankfully, with a DIY windshield repair kit and the right instructions, you can fix cracks yourself. Here is a detailed guide on how to fix a cracked windshield.
Tools You’ll Need:
– Rain-X 600001 Windshield Repair Kit
– Invisible Glass 92164 22-Ounce Premium Glass Cleaner and Window Spray
– MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
– Amazon Basics Push Pins Tacks
Step 1: Clean Your Windshield and Dry It
Start by spraying your car’s windshield with a good glass cleaner and then thoroughly dry it. This ensures that the glass is clean and ready to be worked on.
Step 2: Use a Thumbtack to Clean Out Any Loose Glass from the Damage
If you have a thumbtack, use it to carefully clean out the chip on the glass. This will remove any loose glass or debris, making it easier to fill the chip later.
Step 3: Wipe Down the Surface with a Cleaning Pad
After cleaning out the loose glass, use a cleaning pad to wipe down the area again. If you don’t have a cleaning pad, simply using a glass cleaner and drying it with a cloth will work just fine.
Step 4: Stick the Applicator Base to Windshield Around the Crack
Take the applicator base and position it so that the middle hole is directly above the chip. Make sure the suction cups on the base attach firmly to the windshield to keep it in place.
Step 5: Apply the Resin
Insert the resin chamber into the applicator base and twist it tightly. Then, add 3 to 6 drops of the resin into the chamber. If you notice any resin leaking from the bottom, twist the opposite direction until the leakage stops. Next, insert the pressure chamber into the resin chamber and twist it tightly. Apply the resin to the windshield, and if you see any air bubbles, remove the pressure chamber to release the air and then reinsert it. Wait for about 5 minutes for the resin to dry, and then remove the applicator base.
Step 6: Clean Up the Resin Chamber’s Mess
Add a small amount of resin to the crack and place a curing strip on top. This will clean up any indentations left behind near the crack by the applicator and resin chamber.
Step 7: Park the Car in Sunlight and Let the Resin Dry
Finally, park the car in direct sunlight and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the resin to dry. Once it’s dry, remove the strip and use a razor blade to remove any excess resin from the area. And just like that, your cracked windshield is fixed.
Now that you know how to fix a cracked windshield, let’s address some common questions related to windshield repair.
Should I repair windshield damage immediately after it happens?
Absolutely. If you notice that your windshield is chipped or cracked, it’s crucial to act quickly. Repairing the crack as soon as possible prevents it from spreading across the windshield and causing further damage.
What are the most common types of windshield cracks?
The most common types of windshield cracks that can be repaired are edge cracks, bullseye cracks, and star breaks. Edge cracks occur near the edge of the windshield and can spread rapidly if not addressed promptly. Bullseye cracks resemble a dartboard and are caused by sharp impacts, while star breaks are a series of cracks that radiate from a single starting point.
What if the crack spreads?
If the crack spreads, it becomes a safety issue, and it’s important to contact your car insurance company. Windshield replacement is often covered by car insurance policies.
Can I use a windshield repair kit on the other side and rear car windows?
While it’s rare for other car windows to get chipped while driving, you can use a repair kit for small cracks and chips on occasion.
In conclusion, with the right tools and instructions, fixing a cracked windshield is something you can do yourself. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save time and money by avoiding a full windshield replacement. Remember, acting quickly is key when it comes to repairing windshield damage.
