Sometimes windshield damage is simply unavoidable. Random accidents, rogue stones, or extreme weather can lead to circumstances that are almost impossible to prevent. However, there are some useful suggestions and recommendations to follow to help reduce the risk of having your auto glass replaced.
Preventative Auto Glass Care to Avoid Windshield Replacement
Your vehicle is a considerable investment, and you likely want to do all you can to prevent damage and destruction to it. Routine maintenance is an excellent practice to keep your car working in optimal condition, and to help preserve the value. There are also steps beyond the call of regular maintenance that can help sustain the quality and safety of your automobile.
Some useful tips to keep your windshield in pristine condition, might include:
- Keep your windshield clean
- Wiper blades and fluid maintenance
- Pick a good parking spot
- Store your car safely
- Practice cautious driving habits
- Get chips and cracks fixe immediately
- Professional auto glass care
Keep your Windshield Clean
Proper cleaning of your auto glass on a regular basis is not only beneficial to your driver visibility, but also for maintaining the quality of your windshield. Well-maintained windshields are typically stronger than neglected ones. It is also important to use the right tools and cleaning products when practicing responsible windshield care. Be sure to use a specifically formulated windshield washer formula, rather than using Windex or another household glass cleaner. It is also recommended to use a microfiber cloth to prevent scratching and damage while achieving a deep clean.
Wiper Blades and Fluid Maintenance
Windshield wipers need to be replaced regularly to avoid damaging your auto glass. Standard practice is to change your wipers every 6 months to 1 year, depending on driving frequency and conditions. As soon as you notice cracks or squeaky sounds coming from wipers, it’s time for a replacement. Old worn out wipers can scratch the glass, not only leaving unsightly marks, but making the windshield more susceptible to further damage.Ensure your wiper fluid is always topped up to a safe level.
Parking Spots
Anytime you are looking for a good parking spot, take a conscious approach to assess the area around you for potential hazards. For example, don’t park under an old tree that looks like it could crumble at any minute. Stay away from overhead construction areas, or any signs of activity that may jeopardize the safety of your automobile.
Safe Storage
The most important parking spot is where you park your car when it is at home, since that is where it will sit for extended periods. The most ideal spot would be in an indoor garage to protect the vehicle from outdoor elements. It seems most people use their garage for storing everything but a vehicle, even though the car is much safer indoors. Extreme Canadian weather conditions and temperatures can cause serious damage to your windshield, so indoor or at least sheltered storage is highly recommended if possible.
Cautious Driving Habits
Careful driving is a recommended practice in general for overall safety, but it can also help preserve the integrity of your auto glass. Being aware of your surroundings goes a long way towards damage prevention.
Some simple driving precautions to take, include:
- Follow at a safe distance, don’t get too close to the vehicle in front of you
- Keep an eye on the vehicle in front of you
- Vehicles with large wheels are more likely to throw up large rocks
- Vehicles with multiple back wheels have greater chance of kicking up debris
- Watch out for large vehicles without mud flaps
- Go slow on gravel roads
- Try to avoid driving in heavy storms or severe weather conditions
Immediate Attention to Chips and Cracks
As soon as you notice a blemish on your windshield, get it fixed as soon as possible. Waiting on it only increases the risk of increased damage and expenses. The longer you wait, the more likely you will need an auto glass replacement, which is more costly and time consuming than an auto glass windshield repair.
Professional Auto Glass Care
When in doubt, seek advice from the professionals at Valvoline Express Care Brampton. Expert automotive technicians can assist with everything from quick repairs to auto glass replacements with a lifetime warranty.