Introduction:
A vehicle’s windshield is the ultimate guard against the natural elements, providing stability and safety through a clear line of sight, ensuring added protection with safe airbag deployment, and guaranteeing an intact roof. Although after significant damage, your vehicle often requires immediate windshield replacement, which further needs some maintenance and aftercare, especially during the first 48 hours. But many car owners find themselves confused about how to take care of a freshly replaced windshield. Hence, we have created this detailed guide on mistakes to avoid after a windshield replacement.
Top 10 Don’ts After Windshield Replacement:
If your vehicle has recently been in an accident, getting a fresh new windshield certainly feels like a relief. But the job doesn’t end after windshield replacement; many things follow. It is very common for car owners to neglect the aftercare after a windshield replacement job, but the wise ones always steer clear of certain things.
Here are the top 10 mistakes you need to be wary of after a windshield replacement:
a. Being impatient during the curing time:
The biggest and most important mistake car owners tend to make is not waiting for the freshly replaced windshield to cure. The curing time is when the adhesive used during windshield replacement is allowed to dry. Hence, it is essential to follow the prescribed curing time for a lasting and secure bond.
b. Ignoring the seal
You should never undermine the importance of a well-sealed windshield, as it is crucial for preventing structural issues, air seepage, and water leaks. The best way is to regularly inspect the seal around the windshield’s edges for gaps or signs of wear and tear.
c. Getting a car wash within 48 hours:
The first 48 hours after windshield replacement are the most important for the durability of your newly installed windshield. So, you should never subject it to high-pressure water, as it’d weaken the bond or even cause leaks.
d. Harsh cleaning:
Other than not getting a car wash, you should be mindful when washing your car yourself. It is recommended to choose microfiber cloths and other soft materials, as well as mild automotive glass cleaners. For a scratch-free surface, always wipe off dirt and debris gently.
e. Not addressing cracks/chips:
Never ignore cracks or small chips after windshield replacement, as they can rapidly turn into more significant issues. Taking immediate action can help prevent such cracks from compromising your windshield’s structural integrity and spreading into major cracks.
f. Forcefully slamming car doors:
While it may seem like slamming car doors is not a huge problem, it is, especially after windshield replacement, because the excessive force can transmit unnecessary vibrations to the newly replaced screen. This small habit is the first step to long-lasting windshields.
g. Driving on bumpy roads:
Your car’s windshield is highly sensitive to physical damage after replacement, and taking your car for a drive on a bumpy road can easily be the recipe for destruction because rough terrains cause vibrations, which in turn disrupt the windshield’s freshly done curing process and make the bond between the windshield and the car’s body weak.
h. Parking under the sun:
Automotive professionals always advise against parking your car in direct sunlight for 48 hours after windshield replacement. The main reason is that it causes the adhesive to cure too quickly and unevenly, further compromising the bond. The best way is to always look for covered or shaded areas during the curing time.
i. Resting items against the glass:
Avoid resting items against the glass of your windshield for at least 24 hours after the installation process. You should refrain from putting objects on the dashboard and also from using exterior vehicle covers. To sum it up, don’t let anything touch the windshield until its curing time is complete.
j. Aggressive driving:
Just as we discussed, not taking your car for detours on bumpy roads and terrains, it is recommended to drive much more carefully and steadily during the curing period. This includes not taking any sharp turns, applying sudden brakes, and even rapidly accelerating, as it will lead to violent vibrations, which in turn damage the windshield’s bond.
Conclusion:
Your car’s windshield is one of its most important components, and having a durable and well-secured windshield is the first step to your vehicle’s safety and even yours. From heavy door slamming to getting a car wash immediately after windshield replacement, many things can endanger the structural integrity of your vehicle’s windshield. However, with the right guide on the mistakes commonly made by vehicle owners after windshield replacement, as well as details on how to avoid them, you can protect your automotive investment for years to come.
FAQs:
How long after windshield replacement can it get wet?
It is recommended to wait for at least 24 hours before exposing your windshield to water after replacement.
Why is my new windshield foggy?
The most common cause for this issue is high humidity or your car’s AC system not working properly.
How long does a new windshield take to cure?
The general duration is 24 to 48 hours.
