As a driver, you have probably asked yourself how long it would take to fix your windshield!
Most times, it is the tasks that look simple that are the most frustrating to do! Tasks such as filling up your tire pressure, or cleaning your tires take up unnecessary time according to most car owners. Most drivers feel the same when it comes to replacing their vehicle’s windshield. They believe that a task that looks that simple takes more time than it should!
But really, how long can replacing a car windshield take? In this article, we provide the answer to that question. We also give you information on the factors that affect the time it takes. And, we tell you why you should replace it.
- Why do you need to replace/repair your broken windshield?
Imagine driving around while it’s raining with no windshield!
A windshield serves several purposes in a car. It protects a driver and passenger from extreme weather conditions. It also offers protection from debris on the road.
A windshield according to law, is a safety requirement for all vehicles! Because of this, it needs to be safe, strong, and meet all the standards set by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
There are reasons why you should have your windshield replaced. A cracked windscreen can lead to:
You should replace your broken windshield to protect yourself and your passengers.
Think of a person trying to see using cracked spectacles.
That is what it’s like driving behind a cracked/chipped windshield. A crack on the windshield can be a source of distraction to the driver, which ultimately will compromise the safety of both himself and his passengers.
- Ejection from the vehicle
The windshield acts as a protection layer in case of an accident! The glass used to make a windshield should be strong to serve its purpose. In case of an accident, the windshield acts as a secondary layer of defense after your seatbelt. It should protect you from being thrown out of the vehicle! It should also protect you from being hit by foreign objects from outside.
If the windshield has damage of any kind, then it cannot be structurally strong enough to offer maximum protection in case of a collision/accident.
For an airbag to perform efficiently in an accident, it needs a windshield that is not damaged. The windshield pushes the airbag towards the passenger. If the windshield is damaged, it may fail to deploy the airbag towards the passenger. Instead, it could deploy outwards!
After a collision, it is important to check on the health of your airbag system. You do this regardless of the severity of the accident. Check whether the airbag light is on. To ascertain the health of your airbag system, use an airbag scanner to check for any possible errors.
- When do you need to get your windshield replaced?
Multiple factors determine the urgency by which to replace a windshield. If any of these apply, you should replace your windshield:
- It has an old crack/chip that is irreparable.
- The windshield has several cracks.
- If the position of the crack jeopardizes the visibility or safety of the vehicle.
- When the crack/chip is larger than a dollar bill.
- How long does it take to replace a windshield?
Most people put off replacing their windshields because they think it takes a lot of time. It’s not true! Under the right conditions, replacing a windshield is an easy task that takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
However, it is impossible to be exact on the amount of time it takes to replace a windshield. This is because there are factors that influence the time it takes.
These are some common factors that influence the windshield replacement procedure
The factors are:
These two play a huge role in the length of time it takes to complete the installation of a windshield. When it is cold, it takes longer for the glue to dry and so, it takes longer for the installation to be considered complete. The same applies when there is high humidity! For this, it also takes longer for the glue to harden.
- The make and model of the car
The make and model of a car is a major factor in the time it takes to replace a windshield. Different car models, especially newer car makes come with sensors such as temperature sensors attached to the windshield. For different cars, wiper configurations can be different. This makes it a bit more complicated to remove and then reattach a windshield. If your car has such sensors, we recommend that you take your car to a professional! A technician who is experienced enough to deal with windshield replacement and repair.
- The type of adhesive used
The type of glue and adhesive used in windshield replacement is also important. To take less time, you need an adhesive that hardens quickly and is strong enough. Most technicians use Urethane windshield adhesive which is one of the best in the market.
People are usually loyal to a certain garage or mechanic. Most garages offer more services other than windshield replacement and repair. There is always the possibility that you will be one among a few, or many customers waiting to be served. If you find a long queue of people, you may have to wait a bit longer before it is finally your turn. As such, it is advisable to either book or arrive at a garage earlier than others.
Windshields are very fragile! And garages have a lot of activities going on. Tools used around a garage could cause easy damage to the glass.
For this reason, many garages opt against keeping windshields in-house. Instead, preferring to call suppliers or sellers when they are needed.
With windshields, it is better to pre-order based on the model and make of your car. As parts are sourced, you may have to wait a bit before it is your turn.
Installing a windshield is more of a two-person job than it is one. If you go to a well-staffed, experienced auto repair shop, this job may take a maximum of an hour. However, should you go to an understaffed auto shop, you may end up taking a couple of hours.
It is better to book an appointment so that your service can be planned for and worked on per schedule.
- What you should do after getting your windshield replaced
After getting your windshield replaced or repaired, your technician should tell you the right time to start driving. This ensures the success of the installation.
The adhesive needs time to dry before you can drive off. Failure to do this could compromise the integrity of your windshield and your safety as a driver.
Below are certain things you should adhere to:
- Do not exert unnecessary pressure on the windshield.
- Take some time before visiting a car wash or contact with water.
- Give the car about 60 minutes before starting to drive.
- Do not remove the retention tape on the windshield unless under the advice of your technician.
Conclusion
Getting your windshield replaced is not a difficult, time-consuming task. For your safety and the safety of your passengers, replace your windshield as soon as its integrity is compromised. It only takes about 30 to 60 minutes for a skilled technician to replace the glass and get you back on the road again!