5 Windshield Care Mistakes That Can Cost You More Later

1. 5 Windshield Care Mistakes That Can Cost You More Later Your vehicle’s windshield is far more than just a sheet of glass. It’s an integral safety feature, providing up to 45% of your car’s structural integrity in a frontal collision and preventing the roof from collapsing in a rollover accident. At A Plus Auto Glass, we see countless drivers who, often unintentionally, make simple mistakes that compromise this critical component. These seemingly minor errors can quickly escalate a tiny chip into a full replacement necessity, turning a minor cost into a major expense. We’re here to help you protect your investment and your safety. As your trusted experts in professional auto glass service, here are five common windshield care mistakes we urge you to avoid. 1. Ignoring Small Chips: The Biggest Auto Glass Repair Service Mistake

2. The number one mistake drivers make is operating under the "out of sight, out of mind" philosophy when it comes to small damage. That little pebble ding near the edge of your windshield might seem harmless now, but it's a structural vulnerability waiting for the right conditions to explode into a massive crack. A minuscule chip that could be fixed in under an hour with our professional auto glass repair service will often turn into a lengthy crack when exposed to common stress factors—like hitting a pothole, turning on your defroster, or a sudden change in temperature. Once the crack exceeds the size of a dollar bill, repair is usually no longer an option, forcing you into a far costlier and involved replacement. Don't wait for disaster; schedule a repair the moment you notice damage. 2. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products and Tools When you clean your windshield, are you reaching for harsh household cleaners or abrasive tools? If so, you’re slowly degrading your glass and the sensitive sealants around it. Ammonia-based cleaners, for example, can damage the plastic and vinyl components near the glass, leading to leaks and compromising the integrity of the adhesive bond over time. Instead, stick to cleaners specifically formulated for automotive glass or simple vinegar and water solutions. More importantly, check your wiper blades regularly. Driving with worn-out or damaged wiper blades is like dragging sandpaper across your glass, causing microscopic scratches that permanently damage the glass surface, leading to glare and reduced visibility, especially at night. 3. Subjecting Your Windshield to Extreme Temperature Shock Winter driving presents a major challenge for damaged glass. When you have a small chip or crack (see Mistake #1), exposing it to extreme temperature changes is the fastest way to turn it into an emergency. If your windshield is frosted over, running the defroster on the highest heat setting directly onto the cold glass creates intense thermal stress. The inner layer of the glass heats up rapidly while the outer layer remains frigid, causing the pressure to build up right at the point of the existing damage. The safest way to defrost is to use a moderate setting and allow your car's interior to warm up gradually. Sudden, drastic temperature shifts are a leading cause of windshield failure. 4. Why Delaying Professional Auto Glass Service Turns a Fix into a Fortune Procrastination is expensive, particularly when it comes to your windshield. A compromised windshield doesn't just put you at risk; it can be a primary factor in a major accident. If you've been putting off that necessary fix, we highly recommend reading about The Dangers of Driving with a Damaged Windshield: Why You Shouldn’t Delay Repair. Beyond the structural and safety concerns, delaying auto glass service can lead to issues that void your auto glass warranty or prevent a simple repair. Dirt, rain, and debris seep into the damaged area, making it impossible to achieve a clean, strong bond. What could have been a quick, inexpensive fix often ends up requiring a full replacement because the damage became contaminated. 5. Waiting Until You Need Same Day Car Glass Replacement

3. While A Plus Auto Glass proudly offers same day car glass replacement—because we understand you can’t afford to wait—waiting until replacement is your only option is the final costly mistake. A replacement is always a bigger investment in time and money than a repair. If your windshield damage has reached the point where it impairs the driver’s vision, runs to the edge of the glass, or is simply too large to safely repair, you are already past the point of prevention. Our goal is to ensure you never reach that critical juncture. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and mindful care are the best ways to ensure the longevity of your windshield and keep your car—and budget—safe. If you suspect you have damage or simply need a professional inspection, don't wait. We encourage you to check out our reputation and services directly on our Google business profile or contact us today to protect your glass and your safety. Resource: 5 Windshield Care Mistakes That Can Cost You More Later