Replacing a Windshield? Replace Its Additional Features, Too

When you need to replace your windshield, you may not think much about the details of that replacement. But windshields actually have a range of different features and functions that all feed into creating the best driving experience possible. Understanding how these are impacted by your replacement — and how you might even improve them — is an important step toward driving away a happy customer.

Here's what you need to know.

Was Your Windshield Tinted?

What color was your original windshield? This can be a very tricky question if it's not available for inspection due to serious damage. You may not even realize it had any tint. 

While the majority of the windshield is generally clear, most modern models of cars and trucks have a shading band at the top of the windshield. This band is darker than the rest of the glass and protects drivers from sun glare, prevents upholstery discoloration due to UV rays, and reduces high temperatures inside the cabin. It's an underappreciated safety feature you may not have even realized was working for you. 

Most owners want their new windshield's protective tint to match their prior one. The most common colors are bronze, blue, and green. If you simply have a large crack or chip, your technician can usually match the coloration of both new and old glass. However, they may ask for input if the windshield is completely missing. If you can't recall, check for old photos that will help the professionals identify the hue. 

Do You Want Rain Sensors Reattached?

Rain sensors detect the number of raindrops on the windshield by measuring light reflection. They activate wipers when necessary. Sensors are usually placed near the car's rearview mirror, often near headlight sensors. They are very subtle — so much so that some drivers may not know where they are located or if their car has such a function at all. Basically, if your windshield wipers came on automatically, you had a rain sensor. 

The good news is that glass technicians can often reactivate rain sensors during windshield replacement if the sensor itself is still intact. Let them know about this feature as soon as possible. If the sensor is also damaged (or missing entirely), they may be able to help you locate the best way to replace it with a functional one as well. 

Is Your Windshield Heated?

Car owners in the Pacific Northwest often enjoy the perks of a heated windshield. Small electrical wires, which are often nearly invisible to drivers and passengers, add warmth to the lower sections of the windshield to help get rid of ice and snow. You can usually manually turn the heat on and off, but most systems can also function automatically. 

Because they operate quietly and effectively, you might not even know if your windshield had this feature or not. But if it's designed with built-in heating in mind, your technician may be able to restore it with the right replacement windshield. And if your heated windshield has stopped working, minor damage in the windshield may even be the cause — and something a technician can fix. 

Should You Make Upgrades?

Perhaps your vehicle doesn't have these valuable features. Should you take this opportunity to improve its performance by adding some? The easiest upgrade is generally the color or tinting of the windshield itself. If your windshield didn't have tinting and you'd like to add it to make driving easier or protect the interior, the right windshield can be ordered.

Less commonly, you may opt to change the shade. Some owners simply prefer one color over another. Or you may decide to use a different shade to maximize its benefits, such as more UV protection or better sun glare coverage. Keep in mind that changing color hues may call for replacing more of the glass throughout the vehicle for aesthetic purposes. 

Adding heated elements or rain sensors is more challenging. The auto glass technicians likely cannot add these, but they may be able to advise you on how to accomplish it. Some features can be installed on your own while others may be available from a pro. Talk to the auto glass experts before you decide on any changes to avoid creating problems or wasting time and money. 

Where Should You Start?

Ready to get your windshield replaced after major damage or even upgraded to a better version? A qualified auto glass provider can help. 

Oregon and Washington drivers should start by meeting with the team at MS Glass Outlet. We provide a range of glass services to help you find the perfect replacement windshield. And our experienced technicians will help you identify any additional features that you want to get back in working order. Make an appointment today to learn more or find answers to your questions.