Is Auto Glass Replacement Necessary? The Top Times Your Car Needs This Service

Does your car need a new windshield or other auto glass? If you're not sure what the answer to this question is, take a look at the red flag signs that indicate the need for an immediate replacement.

You Can't See Out of the Windshield

Something as small as a minor crack can interfere with your view. Whether the auto glass damage spans the entire windshield or there is a chip in the center of the driver's side, you need a new windshield as soon as possible. Reduced visibility or an obstructed view puts you and anyone else on the road at risk.

Instead of bobbing your head up and down and from right to left just to see around the damaged space, contact an auto glass professional for a new—and completely clear—windshield.

You See a Chip or Crack In the Windshield

Should you replace a windshield with a small chip or crack—even if it doesn't obscure your view? While a chip or a crack that is in the middle of your field of sight can make it difficult or even impossible to drive safely, this isn't the only type of damage that requires a replacement.

Damage that is at the edge of the windshield or spiders out to the edge requires a replacement. Likewise, larger cracks, deep chips that penetrate into the interior layer of the auto glass, damage that starts on the inside of the windshield, long or wide cracks & chips, and damage that has started to spread all require a replacement instead of a repair.

If your car's windshield has any of these types of damage or you aren't sure what to do next, call MS Glass. Never attempt to assess the damage or make repairs yourself. A piece of tape across a crack or a chip repair product that you buy online may not fully correct the problem, leaving your windshield vulnerable to additional damage—possibly even shattering.

Not only is it dangerous to drive with a cracked, chipped, or damaged windshield, it may result in fines. Some states, such as Oregon, have laws against obstructed driving. This means you can receive a citation for an obstructed (damaged) window.

You Have the Wrong Type of Tint

Did you recently move to a new state? Most states have laws that set guidelines for auto vehicle glass transmittance. Transmittance refers to how much light can get through the glass. In Oregon and Washington, the transmittance of auto glass must exceed 35 percent. If the transmittance is less than 35 percent, you could face a fine. This includes out-of-state cars for new residents.

Window tint installers must provide customers with a certificate that states the percentage of transmittance and reflectance. If your windows don't meet your state's requirements, an auto glass replacement service can correct this issue and help you to comply with the law.

Some states may allow drivers with certain medical conditions to have windows with a darker tint. This exception requires a physician-signed, notarized affidavit.

You Have an Inspection Coming Up

Will your car pass a state inspection with cracks, pits, chips, or other damage? Again, states have laws that prohibit driving a car with an obstructed view. The mechanic or auto shop knows the laws and won't pass a vehicle with significant windshield damage or auto glass issues that obstruct the driver's view.

If your car is due for an inspection, you will need to schedule an auto glass appointment with a MS Glass. How can you make sure your car's auto glass is road-worthy, legal to drive, and safe? Contact MS Glass Outlet for more information.