Winter brings multiple difficulties that affect your vehicle. Your windshield requires special attention because it stands as one of the most essential part of your vehicle during the wintertime. Auto glass suffers damage in cold temperatures, ice, and snow, that results in cracks, chips, and various other types of damage. At HCS Auto Repair in Rogers, AR, we’ve seen our fair share of winter-related windshield issues.
Continue reading to examine the reasons windshields become more vulnerable to cracking during freezing conditions and the methods you can use to stop and solve these problems. The winter season requires specific practical tips which we will provide to help you maintain your windshield in optimal condition.
Understanding Winter Windshield Vulnerabilities
Winter weather creates extreme challenges that can damage your windshield. Your car’s glass reacts to temperature changes by contracting in cold weather and expanding during warm periods. The atomic structure of materials experiences changes that create tension between different parts of the windshield that ultimately results in cracking. Water that enters existing chips or cracks will lead to worsened damage because it expands when it freezes. The lower the temperature drops, the more brittle your glass becomes which worsens all existing damage.
Thermal shock stands as a big factor. This phenomenon happens when materials experience abrupt shifts in temperature, like when hot water gets dumped onto an icy windshield or when people operate the defroster at maximum power. These actions create a situation where undamaged glass develops cracks while existing chips and cracks receive further damage. The first step to shielding your windshield during wintertime requires you to comprehend the windshield’s weakness.
Methods to Stop Windshield Damage During Wintertime
Now that we know why windshields are more prone to cracks in freezing weather, let’s discuss some effective preventive measures. A routine of protective actions can decrease windshield damage risk while creating safer driving conditions for you.
A garage space or windshield cover serves as the most straightforward method to protect your vehicle. A windshield cover protects your glass from ice, snow, and frost when you do not have a garage to use. The system protects your windshield and improves your morning routine by cutting down defrosting time for your window.
Windshield defrosting needs to proceed through a step-by-step process. Start your defroster at low settings then raise the temperature. The slow procedure protects against thermal shock damage which occurs when warm air from inside the building contacts frozen ice on glass surfaces.
You should never attempt to thaw a frozen windshield using hot water. The method creates immediate cracks despite its appearance as a fast solution. The driver should utilize a soft ice scraper combined with de-icer spray while waiting for the vehicle to reach defrosting temperature. The method treats glass with less risk while producing better outcomes over time.
The process of maintaining equipment through scheduled service times provides protection against windshield damage. The existing chips need to be checked and repaired before the temperature begins to fall. The cold weather conditions allow these chips to develop into extensive cracks. The use of winter-grade windshield washer fluid enables operation in temperatures that drop to -20°F. The system prevents wiper fluid from freezing which would stop it from clearing frost and debris.
Replacing degraded wiper blades serves as an essential maintenance task. Old wiper blades become brittle, which leads to their complete failure during cold weather. The replacement process needs to happen before winter begins because this ensures your system will function during critical needs. Objects on the road like rocks can also create a risk that can damage your windshield.
Addressing Small Cracks or Chips
Chips and cracks can still develop despite all preventive efforts. A small crack or chip on your windshield needs immediate fixing when you discover it. The problem will become worse if you do not fix it before the cold weather begins. If you experience a chip that needs professional repair, but you cannot get it done now, use a DIY repair kit as your temporary solution. These systems prevents further damage until you can consult an expert. Kits are generally easy to use and can provide a quick fix that might save you from needing a full windshield replacement later.
You should stay away from all rough and bumpy roads that contain potholes during the waiting period because these surfaces create vibrations that will extend your existing cracks. People need to watch their door slams because this behavior will make their cracks worse.
When to Replace Your Windshield
A full windshield replacement becomes necessary when repair work on a crack or chip fails to restore the glass. A professional needs to perform a replacement when your windshield contains a long, deep crack that continues to expand. You must replace the windshield when damage to it blocks your sight or creates dangerous sun reflections.
Your advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) development serves as a vital component of your automotive safety systems. The full windshield replacement becomes necessary when damage to your vehicle obstructs essential functions of these systems. The systems depend on sensors and cameras, which need to remain unbroken for proper operation, that depends on their windshield components.
Professional Auto Glass Services
We at HCS Auto Repair, located in Rogers, AR, consider your windshield maintenance essential during the wintertime because we understand its importance. Our ASE-certified technicians work at our company to provide complete solutions for your auto glass requirements. Our services range from small chip repairs to complete windshield replacements which we handle for all customers. We also offer ADAS configuration to ensure your safety systems are functioning correctly.
We take pride in providing exceptional customer service. We know that dealing with vehicle repairs can be stressful, so we strive to make the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Our staff is always available to answer your questions and guide you through your options, ensuring that you feel confident and informed every step of the way. Trust us at HCS Auto Repair today to keep you safe on the road with our reliable repair services.
The winter weather will create unexpected challenges if you do not prepare for its arrival. Your winter preparation work should include creating protection methods for your windshield during cold weather. The best way to protect your budget and minimize damage to your property is to repair chips as soon as possible. Let us help you drive safely during the upcoming winter weather.
Call us now at (479) 751-8232 to book your appointment so we can assist you in maintaining your windshield during the entire winter period. We can prioritize your safety with our deliver professional auto repair services.