Window-Related Car Parts to Repair Along With Damaged Windows

Sometimes, window damage is isolated to a specific spot in the middle of the window or windshield. Other times, the damage may be more widespread or may be located in an area that could cause damage to surrounding components of your car.

Alternatively, a nearby part of your car (such as a damaged window track) could actually cause the window damage. In either case, your car may need more repairs than you originally expected.

Here are six related car components that may also need repairs or replacements when the window or windshield is damaged.

1. Window Film or Tint

Your windshield or window, if it's tinted, likely has the tint installed on the inside. This means that if a chip occurs from the outside, the tint likely won't be affected. However, if any damage to the window occurs from the inside, you will need to replace the tint or film.

If your films are getting old and starting to delaminate from UV damage, you may want to take this opportunity to replace the film or tints on all your car windows. In addition, any time your window or windshield needs to be replaced, you'll need to have any aftermarket tints applied at the same time so the new window will match the others.

2. Any Windshield Sensors

Some windshields are built with automatic sensors that can detect rain and turn on the windshield wipers to keep the windshield clear. Cracks or chips in the windshield can sometimes affect the performance of these sensors, reducing the functionality of the automatic windshield wipers.

In addition, trauma to the windshield just over the sensor could cause the sensor to become damaged as well, which would necessitate repairs.

3. Car Door Window Frame

If the metal frame around the outside of the window is bent, dented, or otherwise damaged, a new, undamaged window won't fit in correctly. This can cause obvious problems, such as not being able to close the window.

If your window frame is damaged at all, you'll need to have the frame repaired or replaced before installing new window glass. Talk to your window glass repair experts about the extent of the damage to discover whether it can be easily repaired or whether you need an entirely new car door.

4. Window Opening Mechanism

Although hidden behind the external shell of the car, the mechanism that opens the window can still become damaged in a collision. These openers can also fail through worn-out parts, overheated motors, or electrical problems.

In some cases, the regulator portion of the opener can even become mechanically misaligned, whether due to a defect or from structural damage. But whatever the reason, you should have your faulty mechanism fixed or replaced when you go into the shop to replace the window.

5. Window Track 

If one of the car door windows is damaged, you have reason to suspect that the track it runs on could be damaged as well. Unlike a windshield, these car door windows are slotted into place on a track rather than being held in place with strong adhesive.

If the track is at all warped or deformed, the window's opening and closing function could be impaired. This damage may co-occur with the broken window you're getting fixed. Keep in mind that even a brand-new window won't work correctly if the track is damaged or blocked. 

In some cases, your window damage could even be caused by a damaged or blocked window track, so repairing the track before window replacement is especially important.

6. Windshield Wipers

If a rock or other flying object hits your windshield in just the right spot, your windshield wipers can be damaged as well. And, of course, they can also suffer damage in a collision. Fortunately, your auto glass repair personnel can easily replace the wipers for you. Some may replace the wiper blades automatically with every repair, even.

When you call up your auto glass shop to schedule your appointment, they'll need to know what type of car you have and what type of damage your windshield has sustained so they can make sure they have the right parts. So be sure you let them know if you suspect any damage to the windshield wipers as well.

As you can see, auto glass repair and replacement experts often have to deal with a lot more than just glass. Features included with your windshield, window operating mechanisms, and the parts of your car that surround the damaged glass can all affect how the repair will go. 

For more information on auto glass repairs and how we can help you with ancillary items such as window film and windshield wipers, get in touch with MS Glass Outlet today. We can help you with your windshield repairs and any auto glass-related repairs you may need, such as side windows and window mechanisms.