The windshield is the most important part of a vehicle. It protects you and other occupants from external elements such as rain, rock, debris, bad weather, and so on. Aside from that, it also prevents you from getting thrown in the event of an accident. Hence, it is crucial to take good care of your car’s windshield.
But the thing is, car’s windshields are made of laminated glass, which is prone to scratches, cracks, chips, and damages. Not all scratches are repairable. So, what shall you do when you notice scratches on your car’s windshield?
But, let’s first understand the situations when your windshield can get scratches. Here we go…
Top 5 Reasons for Windshield Scratches
Many commonplace items can cause damage to a car’s windshield, and many of these things are preventable.
#1. Worn out Wiper Blades
This is the most common reason of all when it comes to windshield scratches. Worn-out wiper blades can cause significant damage to your windshield.
Typically, windshield wipers are made of metal and rubber or silicone composites. And the wiper frames are made of aluminum, with some steel. In most cases, rubber or synthetic compounds are used to make up the portion of the wiper blade that directly comes into contact with the windshield.
When the windshield wipers are worn out, their blades become hardened, which causes scratches. These scratches are more noticeable when the glass is dry.
#2. Stone Stuck in Windshield Wipers
More often than not, when we leave our cars outside in the bad weather, things like dried leaves, pebbles, etc., get stuck on the blades of a wiper, which can again be detrimental to your windshield. Such things often leave scratches.
#3. Old or Poor-Quality Ice Scrapers
Usually, in cold regions with snowy climates, car owners need to scrape ice off the windshield of their glass. So, if you live in a cold region where snowfalls are normal, it is crucial to use good-quality ice scrapers. Old or poor-quality scrapers can leave a scratch on the windshield surface, which will be noticeable when the windshield is dry.
#4. Flying Debris
Flying debris or rocks on the roads are another danger to your car’s windshield. Often flying pebbles striking your windshield from the road produce scratches, chips, or cracks depending on the intensity of the strike. That’s why it is crucial to avoid driving behind the loaded trucks, four-wheelers that trap debris on the road.
#5. Using Wrong Cleaner or Cleaning Method
As said earlier, your car’s windshields are made of laminated glasses; hence, you need to clean them regularly. Using rough, dirty cloth can leave scratches on the surface of the glass. Even using harsh chemical based soaps can affect your windscreen adversely. Therefore, it is crucial to clean your windshield with a soft cotton cloth and a mild cleaner.
Whatever the reason, you should take corrective action as soon as you see scratches on your windshield. Bear in mind that the windshield protects your car’s structural integrity, and a broken windshield can compromise the strength of the car’s roof. A crack, scrapes, or chip in the roof, particularly in the event of a collision or traffic accident, can cause the entire roof to collapse. Additionally, postponing the process may result in additional damage to your car’s glass.
A severe scratch can even expand in size over time and may necessitate windshield replacement. So, it’s better to take timely measures. The good news is you can fix minor windshield scratches at home.
Let’s see what you can do to fix scratches on your car’s windshield.
Step-by-step Procedure to Fix Scratches At Home
Prerequisite
- Patience
- Time
- Water
- Good quality cleaner or soap (mild and windscreen friendly)
- Glass repair or polishing kit
- Cerium oxide-based compound
- A soft, dry cloth
- Good music (it will keep you focused and of course, avoid boredom J)
1. Determine the Type of Scratch
First things first, be ready to fix the issue. It is imperative because not all scratches are repairable at home. So, first of all, you will have to evaluate the level of damage that occurred to your windshield. If the scratch is only on the topmost layer of your windshield, you can fix it at home. And if it is beyond DIY, it is suggested to seek professional assistance to avoid further complications.
You can tell what form of scratch it is by caressing it with your finger or fingernail. If the scratched surface is smooth to the touch, it can easily be repaired. A serious scratch hurts the fingers and should only be repaired or replaced by professionals. If left neglected for too long, they will grow in size and cause a break.
2. Get a glass repair kit.
Purchase a glass repair or polishing kit from an auto parts store or a local vehicle repair shop to fix the issue. This package contains a rubbing compound that is used to remove scratches from the windshield.
3. Clean the windscreen.
Take mild soap or cleaner to clean the windshield before you fix the scratch. After cleaning, allow the windshield to dry completely.
4. Apply rubbing compound.
Once your windshield is completely dry, it’s time to apply the rubbing compound to the scratch. Using a soft cloth, carefully rub the compound into the surface of the surface. Be gentle while you apply the compound on the windshield. Make sure the rubbing compound contains cerium oxide. You can check that on the package itself.
This compound will seal the scratch and prevent it from spreading and causing further damage to the windshield.
5. Let the compound dry.
Once you have applied the compound, it’s time to leave it to dry. It will take 0 – 45 minutes for the compound to completely dry.
That’s all! You’re done!
Pro Tip: You can apply the rubbing compound regularly to ensure that the scratch is completely repaired.
Putting it all together…
So this is how you can deal with car windshield scratches at home. If all this seems too much to you, get your car to us. Our expert technicians will help you get rid of the scratch instantly and will make your windshield look new and stunning as it has always been.
Also, our technician will look for any crack or chip that can be detrimental to your car’s windshield and riskier for the occupants. We have a team of experts with immense experience and knowledge. They will help you with the best solution for your car’s windshield scratches, chips, and cracks
