When Should You Repair or Replace a Windshield?

When Should You Repair or Replace a Windshield?

by | Feb 11, 2022 | Auto Glass Windshield Repair, Auto Glass Windshield Replacement

When it comes to driving a car, the windshield is your first protection against wind, bugs, and other elements that may come your way. However, your windshield is prone to wear and tear and can sometimes get damaged or cracked. Whichever the case, you need your damaged or cracked windshield fixed or replaced as soon as possible.

For most car owners, it can be challenging to determine whether they need to get their windshield to be repaired or replaced entirely. In this case, there is a need to consult an expert since not all damage is the same.

Generally, windshield damages differ in location, size, and severity. While some cracks may only require a quick fix, others require the whole windshield to be replaced. Usually, damages that are in line with the driver’s sight will need to be replaced to prevent causing an accident. Whatever the crack on your windscreen may be, it is always best to get the advice of an expert to avoid any problems later on.

In this article, you will learn the difference between repairing and replacing a windshield and under which circumstances each should be applied.

When Will a Windshield Repair Suffice?

Unlike replacing your windshield, repairing a damaged windshield is more cost-effective. However, several things are considered when determining whether a windshield can be fixed with a simple repair. Generally, a repair company’s ability to fully repair your windshield can depend on the damage’s size, location, and severity.

  • Size or Extent of Damage

In most cases, a simple repair will suffice if the damage in your windshield is smaller than 40mm in diameter.

  • Location of Damage

Another thing to keep in mind is the location of the damage. It is easy to repair windshield damage if it is not in line with the driver’s sight.

  • Depth of Damage

Something else that repair companies take into consideration is the depth of damage. If the crack or chip is shallow and has only penetrated a single layer of glass, it can be repaired. However, it may need replacement if it has penetrated both the inner and outer glass layer.

No matter how small the damage to your windshield is, you need to get it repaired as soon as possible. Otherwise, the damage may deteriorate, and you may need to replace it instead, incurring extra costs.

When do You Need a Windshield Replacement?

Several things will make a windshield replacement the only solution. This means getting rid of your old windshield and getting a brand new windshield altogether. You can simply replace your windshield when you experience any of the following damage:

  • You have an old windshield with several scratches or pitting.
  • Your windshield got hit by a large rock, and it punched a hole through it.
  • If your windshield has multiple chips in it beyond the recommended size of repair.
  • If the glass is tempered and not laminated.
  • Cracks in your windshield can be solved by simply replacing them rather than repairing them. Cracks will grow over time, and they also weaken the overall integrity of your windshield, making it necessary to replace your windshield.

Conclusion

Again, no matter how small the damage to your windshield is, it is always advisable to get it fixed or replaced as soon as you can. The last thing you want is to get into an accident because of poor visibility caused by a crack or chip on your windshield. Ensure that you research the best windshield repair company near you to evaluate the damage and advice you on the best possible solution.

Fast, Affordable and Reliable Oil Change

Fast, Affordable and Reliable Oil Change

by | Jan 11, 2022 | oil change

If you are in search of a fast, affordable, and reliable oil changing service in the Brampton area, Valvoline Express Care is an excellent selection.  The Valvoline Express Care Automotive Centre in Brampton has been providing exceptional automotive service for over 20 years. They offer a wide array of oils and filters to choose from, to ensure you get the right products for your vehicle to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. Bring your vehicle in for an oil change and get a check up to make sure your car is operating at peak performance, and that it is safe to drive for you and your passengers.

Oil Change Services Brampton

Valvoline Express Care offers a quick and easy oil change solution, so you don’t have to worry about taking too much time out of your busy schedule. Just show up at the service centre in Brampton, no need to make an appointment in advance. The efficient and effective oil change technicians will have you in and out in no time. You can also discuss with them, the best and type of oil and filter for your vehicle.

Why choose Valvoline Express Care for oil changes?

There are several strong arguments for using the services at Valvoline to preserve the value and enhance the performance of your vehicle.

Some advantages of using Valvoline are:

  • Enhance performance
  • Save money
  • Protect the engine
  • Choose quality products
  • Preserve warranty
  • Convenience
  • Enhance Performance

One of the major reasons for having your oil changed consistently is to keep your car functioning at optimal levels.

Clean oil allows the engine to do its job efficiently and friction-free. Oil gets dirty and ineffectual over time. Eventually unchanged oil will begin to fill up with dirt and debris. If the oil gets too filthy, it can no longer provide proper lubrication, causing friction between the metal components of the engine.

Oil changes can help you save money

This bonus of consistent oil changes that I’m sure every car owner can get behind. Why spend more money than you need to?

 The only issue with this approach is that it takes some foresight on the part of the owner. Not everyone is willing to invest short term money, in order to save big in the long run.

Regular oil changes will help you avoid large and terrifying mechanic bills when your car breaks down because it wasn’t properly cared for. The cost repairing an engine is no joke. It is best to avoid that situation altogether if possible.

Not only that, clean oil allows for better fuel economy. The engine doesn’t have to work as hard when it is provided with clean oil on a consistent basis.

Oil changes help you protect the engine

Clean oil can help protect your engine from all kinds of problems like:

  • Metal-on-metal friction
  • Build up of dirt and debris
  • Sludge formation
  • Overheating

Contaminated oil can severely damage your engine. Lack of lubrication opens the door to the potential for the engine to overheat, and even seize up entirely. If dirt oil is left unchecked long enough it can start to turn to sludge, massively inhibiting engine performance.

Choose Quality Oil Change Products

The option to choose from a variety of products is incredibly beneficial for your vehicle. All motor oils are quite different from one another, so it is important to choose the one that works best with your vehicle. Valvoline offers various different oils, for different purposes. For example, let’s take a look at Valvoline Max Life Synthetic Blend. This type of oil is more geared towards older vehicles, in particular cars with over 75,000 miles on them.

Max Life Synthetic Blend motor oil focuses on minimizing further engine wear by:

  • Improving engine power
  • Enhancing fuel economy
  • Preventing oil leaks
  • Minimizing total oil consumption
  • This is just one example of the many product choices on offer at Valvoline Express Care.

Oil Changes can help preserve warranty

With a lot of vehicle warranties, the validity hinges on regular oil changes done by an automotive professional.  Check your warranty to see if there are any stipulations outlining required services that are needed to keep the warranty binding.

Convenience

This may be one of the best perks of using a professional oil change service. Trying to change your oil on your own can be very time consuming, not to mention dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. Doing the job incorrectly can result in hefty fees to fix it. It is also not safe to do it yourself without the proper equipment and knowledge.

Maintain beauty of your car by Auto Rust Proofing

Maintain beauty of your car by Auto Rust Proofing

by | Dec 23, 2021 | Rust Proofing Brampton

Are you looking for the most cost-effective Brampton auto rust proofing? Smart vehicle owners are aware that undercoating and rust proofing protect cars from oxidization. Rust is often an issue for the chassis or supporting structure of cars due to water, dirt, salt, and other fragments from thoroughfares.
 
Auto rust proofing should be applied right after you purchase the vehicle and before it is driven. Prevention of corrosion could be useless for used cars since you simply cover the dirt that has accumulated. The key is to employ rust proofing while your vehicle is still with the dealership. Majority of car distributors’ offer said services as added feature when you purchase a new vehicle. This is probably the perfect time for applying primer and anti-rust solutions since the bodywork is still clean.
 
It does not mean car owners are not supposed to rust-proof used vehicles. In fact, you can apply undercoat for protection against further rusting. There are different techniques in rust proofing.

  • Undercoating entails spraying rubberized coat made from latex, plastic resin and tar. This solution prevents moisture, road salt and chips from sticking to the framework beneath your vehicle.
  • Oil Spray (DRIPLESS) is a wax-like material that is applied on the vehicle’s body and hardens as soon as it gets dried. This has extreme thickness so it is not capable of penetrating the car’s corners and crevices. You need to drill holes to achieve this goal.
  • Drip spray is the most widely-used method for Brampton auto rust proofing. It trickles for a maximum of 48 hours until the oil has dried. It goes through vehicle interiors compared to other procedures. Drilling is still required for doors and fenders so the oil can seep in the interiors.

 
For successful rust-proofing, it is important to clean your car’s underside thoroughly. The rust is removed by using a grinder and sandpaper. Make sure to take away the dust produced by grinding and sanding. The sandpaper must be made for metal with grit of 220 or higher. The next step is to prime and paint the chassis using zinc primer if possible. See to it that the primer is dried before painting with black car paint.
 
The final step in auto rust proofing is to undercoat the vehicle body. Apply the rubberized undercoating to all exposed parts. See to it that everything is dry for at least an hour or even longer based on the instructions.
 
The truth is rust proofing should be implemented while the vehicle has not been used. It keeps your car safe from corrosion, grime, water, and other filthy substances. Consult an experienced auto mechanic or reputable auto rust proofing provider for the best results. Quality should not be compromised even if you are looking for inexpensive Brampton auto rust proofing.

Vehicle Oil Change Brampton

Vehicle Oil Change Brampton

by | Nov 30, 2021 | oil change brampton

There are many ways to adequately prepare your vehicle for Canadian winter. Taking some precautionary measures before winter comes out in full force, can be a tremendous advantage for your car and your wallet.

Preventative maintenance can save you money by avoiding expensive trips to the mechanic and preserving the value of your vehicle. This is why regularly scheduled automotive maintenance is so beneficial. A perfect time for a scheduled maintenance session, is just before winter. Having your oil changed is an important part of consistent upkeep.

 

How often should oil be changed?

Waiting until smoke starts coming from your engine is not the best way to realize it’s time for an oil change. The general belief is that oil should be changed anywhere between 5000 and 10,000 kilometers. How often you actually change your oil can depend on a number of factors, such as:

  • How often you drive
  • Driving conditions
  • Type of vehicle
  • Type of oil
  • Personal preference

It is a good idea to consult your driver’s manual to see the recommended frequency for oil changes. There really is no such thing as changing your oil too often. Frequent oil changes will cause no damage to your engine, so feel free to have your oil changed as often as you like to prevent worry and stress.
Does oil need to be changed more often in the winter?

Again, this will be dependent on various outside factors, but the short answer is “yes”. The technology found in automobiles these days is quite sophisticated. When the “change oil” light comes on in your vehicle, it happens based on all kinds of factors and influences. Some of the things that get taken into account are:

  • Average engine temperature
  • Ambient air temperature
  • Weight of load in your vehicle
  • Length and duration of excursions
  • How frequently the engine is run without hitting maximum heat level

These are just a few examples to give you an idea of the complex inner workings behind your “change oil” light. This is why the change oil light may come on more frequently during the winter. Having your oil changed before the winter season, keeps the engine at optimal performance levels when it may need to work a little harder during the winter months.

Why does oil need to be changed regularly?

The main purpose of oil in your vehicle is to provide lubrication for the many components of the engine that rub against each other and cause friction. Without oil, there is nothing to absorb the heat created by this friction, which can quickly lead to the engine overheating.

Eventually, oil will break down and become contaminated just through regular use. Sludge and debris will build up in the oil over time, making it less effective at lubricating the engine and absorbing heat.
Oil contamination is also a result of water and fuel getting into the oil reserve. Water can get into the oil when condensation forms on the metal components of the engine. This typically occurs by taking short trips in the winter, not giving the engine enough time to heat up fully.

It is similar with gasoline or fuel. When you start up your engine in the cold weather, a fuel injected engine will produce a richer mixture, which can result in unused fuel getting into the oil reserve.
If too much water or fuel gets into the oil reserve, it can lead to major problems for your vehicle. Too much water can induce the oil ventilation system to lock up, which results in a leak. Excess fuel in the oil and it starts to lose its lubricative properties, which lead to engine damage.


Valvoline Express Care Brampton


For regular oil changes, and any other type of automotive maintenance you require, Valvoline Express Care Brampton is an outstanding option. This one-stop-shop for automotive care has been operating in the Brampton area for over 20 years, providing exceptional service and products.


Of all the aspects of consistent vehicular maintenance, oil changes may be the most important. Your car relies on clean oil to allow peak performance, and prevent engine damage and seizure.
Valvoline Express Care offers effective, efficient, and affordable oil changes for people in Brampton and the surrounding areas.


Don’t take any chances this winter; get your vehicle ready for the upcoming season. When you take your car to Valvoline Express Care, professional automotive technicians can inspect your car for safety and performance.


While your car is raised up for an oil change, this can also be an ideal time for tire rotation and rust proofing for the undercarriage of your vehicle.

How to Care for a Newly Replaced Windshield?

How to Care for a Newly Replaced Windshield?

by | Oct 6, 2021 | Auto Glass Windshield Replacement, emissions testing brampton

After the windshield replacement procedure, good maintenance and care will inevitably follow. This can provide long-lasting effects as well as maintain the appearance of your car. Additionally, caring for your new windshield will not compromise your safety in case the parts loosen.

You can consider the following tips to ensure your new windshield is always in good condition after installation. Here they are:

  1.  Do Not Drive Your Car Right After the Replacement Process

Actually, It has been a while since you took your car for a drive. You just got a cracked windshield repaired and can’t wait to take it for a road test. Unfortunately, you have to give your car some time to heal and for the adhesive to dry completely before driving again.

  1. Avoid Slamming the Doors

During installation, professional urethane as an adhesive is used to repair chipped windshields or attach new ones. Slamming the doors can weaken the adhesive seal, which in return causes it to rupture. Therefore, always close the doors lightly on the first few days after repair.

Leave the tape on

The use of retention tape holds the windshield moldings in place and protects the seal from any weather components like dirt and debris. This ensures that the adhesive dries effectively and completely. Thus, it is better to leave the tape in place for at least 24 hours after replacement.

  1. Avoid Taking Your Car to Car Washes

As much as you’d like to get your car cleaned by a professional, it can be extremely risky as most car washes use high-pressure jets and motor pumps. These cleaning methods can weaken the adhesive, especially if it is yet to dry completely. Moreover, if the car wash uses harsh cleaning detergents, it may later destroy silicon-based adhesives and sealants.

However, you can still wash your car at home with mild detergents then sprinkle water in a soft motion.

  1. Open a Window

Air pressure can weaken the adhesive seal, as seen in point 4 above. Therefore, it is best if you roll down a window to at least an inch. Do this on the first day after replacement to ensure the adhesive dries optimally.

  1. Clear Any Item Near the Windshield

Anything that is near your car can interfere with the drying of the adhesive. The item may push against the windshield and touch the wet urethane before it completely dries. Therefore, ensure you don’t use a cover or a sunshade on your car’s exterior and interior parts. Do this up to around 48 hours after the speedy glass replacement.

How to Identify a Poorly Installed Windshield

A poorly done windshield should not be taken lightly as it can cause risks and accidents. Thus, if you want to ensure safety, then consider checking out the following signs in case of a faultily installed windshield:

  • The Windshield Isn’t Flush

Flush means that the windshield fits perfectly into your car’s frame without the need for adjustments. Therefore, make sure your windshield is secured faultlessly after your speedy glass replacement procedure.

  • Uneven Frame Mold

Always examine any bumpy molding around your windshield’s glass frame. This will ensure long-lasting effects as well as prevent possible risks.

  • The Windshield Still Contains Intact Adhesives From Your Old One

If your windshield is properly done, then no adhesives should be left behind after repair.

  • Leaking Edges

A good windshield replacement method should not leak on the edges. Therefore, when getting your car after the repair, make sure you ask the staff to sprinkle water around the edges of the windshield. If the windshield’s interior shows signs of fogging or water leaks inside, then the windshield is poorly done.

Conclusion

Your new windshield is always vulnerable during the first two days after replacement. Therefore, make sure you have patience and commitment before resuming your car’s normal functions. Moreover, consider taking your car to a professional and prevent faulty results.