There are different types of auto glass, and they do different things that help you safely drive your car. Auto glass that’s cracked, chipped, or heavily pitted can make driving hazardous. Here are some signs it’s time to consider a replacement.
When It’s Time to Replace Your Windshield
It’s time to replace your windshield when it has so many cracks, chips, and bullseyes that they interfere with your line of sight. The windshield should also be replaced when a crack is over 6 inches long. Chips are round breaks that happen when a pebble or other type of small debris flies up and hits the glass. Bullseyes have concentric rings that give them their name. They’re larger than chips, and when they appear, they’re a sign the windshield needs to go.
Another sign that it’s time to replace your windshield is extensive pitting that’s caused by sand flying up into the glass. These pits impair your vision at night and in bright sunlight and make driving dangerous.
Even if the glass is more or less sound, a windshield whose frame has been damaged in some way threatens the integrity of the car itself. Specifically, the windshield supports the roof, and if it’s compromised, it can cause the roof of your car to crumple during a rollover. The windshields of contemporary cars also have safety features that can be destroyed if the windshield is damaged.
When It’s Time to Replace Your Rear Window
It’s time to replace your rear window when it also suffers cracks and chips, especially if they’re in the corners. The corners of the rear window are under stress, and damage there can cause the window to break with no warning.
You should also replace your rear window if it’s so hazy or scratched that you can’t see out of it or if it’s compromised to the point where it’s letting rain seep into the backseat.
When It’s Time to Replace Your Side Windows
Replace your side windows when they’re shattered, if they resist being rolled up or down, or if they’re uneven or shake when you do try to roll them up or down. Also, replace your side windows when they allow air, precipitation, or debris into the car.
Maybe your auto glass is cloudy because it’s been around and subject to years of weather exposure. On the other hand, maybe you’ve found out how to look around the spiderweb in your windshield as you drive. In either case, it may be time to schedule auto glass replacement services in Oakland, California by contacting our professionals at Auto Glass On The Move.