How to Replace Your Automobile Windshield

How to Replace Your Automobile Windshield

If you’re in need of a new windshield but don’t want to take the vehicle into the auto-body shop, there are a few things you can do yourself. You can lubricate the perimeter of the windshield to prevent any damage and use a pry bar to pull weather-stripping and molding off the windshield. Use suction cups to attach the pry bar to the windshield, and have one person sit in the driver’s seat and push the windshield with their feet while the other person pulls the bar. While pulling the bar, make sure to put pressure on areas that are not damaged.

Installing urethane on a new windshield

How to Replace Your Automobile Windshield

The first step in installing urethane on a new windshield is removing any old coatings from the windshield. Using a heavy-duty glass scraper, remove the old urethane. If possible, use a primer on the window channel to help the new urethane adhere. This will also serve as a rust-preventer. Once this is done, apply the new urethane to the entire windshield.

Preparing for a windshield replacement

A good way to prepare for a windshield replacement Tempe for your automobile is to thoroughly clean the inside of the windshield. The glass treatment you choose will depend on the weather you live in. If you live in a dry climate like Phoenix, AZ, you can choose a urethane sealant. Once this is complete, your windshield can be installed. Your new windshield will be installed using a urethane sealant, which is also available in various colors.

Repairing a cracked windshield

If you’re considering repairing a cracked windshield on your own, you’ve come to the right place. While many windshields can be repaired, you may find that they cannot be fixed if the crack is in the driver’s field of vision. That means it’s best to replace the windshield instead of trying to repair it. Luckily, windshield repair is not expensive and you may even find that your insurance company covers it.

Finding a quality auto-body shop

Despite its seemingly minor function, an automobile windshield is a critical safety restraint in a vehicle. Its two pieces of glass are held together by an inner layer of vinyl that acts as a “glue” to keep the glass from breaking or splintering, allowing the car’s occupants to remain safe. According to Steve Mazor, chief automotive engineer of the Auto Club of Southern California, a properly installed automobile windshield can help prevent a serious accident. In fact, he estimates that thirty percent of all fatalities are the result of people being thrown from cars when the windshield fails or is not installed correctly.

Choosing a professional windshield installer

If you have time, passion for DIY projects, and the necessary skills, you can even replace your automobile windshield on your own. DIY projects are great for the family and can save you money, but it is best to leave this job to a professional. Windshields play an important role in the structural safety of a car, and it is a potentially hazardous job to do it yourself.