A small crack in your windshield might seem harmless at first. You may notice it after a rock chips the glass or while cleaning your car, and you might think it is too minor to worry about. However, even a tiny crack can compromise the safety of your vehicle and often gets worse over time.
The good news is that many small cracks can be repaired before they spread. Understanding when a repair is possible and when replacement is necessary will help you make the most informed and cost-effective decision.
Why Windshield Integrity Matters
Your windshield does more than block wind and debris. It is a critical part of your vehicle’s structural strength, helping to protect you in the event of a collision. In many vehicles, the windshield also plays a role in the proper deployment of airbags.
A crack, even a small one, weakens the glass and can affect how well it holds up in an accident. This is why it is important to address windshield damage as soon as you notice it.
How to Tell if a Crack Can Be Repaired
Whether a crack can be repaired depends on several factors:
- Length: Most small cracks under three inches can be repaired. Longer cracks often require replacement.
- Depth: If the crack penetrates through both layers of the laminated glass, repair is unlikely to be effective.
- Location: Cracks in the driver’s line of sight are more likely to require replacement, even if they are small. Repairs in this area can sometimes leave slight distortions in the glass that affect visibility.
- Spread Potential: Cracks near the edges of the windshield are more prone to spreading quickly due to vibrations and stress.
We can evaluate the crack and determine if it is a good candidate for repair.
How Repairs Are Done
Windshield repair involves injecting a special resin into the damaged area. The resin fills the crack, restores the structural integrity of the glass, and prevents the damage from spreading. Once the resin cures, the area is polished to improve clarity.
While the repaired crack may still be faintly visible, the repair will make it much less noticeable and far less likely to grow.
Repairs are relatively quick—often taking less than an hour—and cost much less than a full replacement. Many insurance policies even cover the cost of repair with no deductible.
Why Waiting Can Cost More
It can be tempting to put off fixing a small crack, but glass damage rarely stays the same. Temperature changes, vibrations from driving, and even moisture getting into the crack can cause it to spread.
A small repairable crack today can turn into a long, unrepairable crack in just a few weeks. At that point, your only option is to replace the entire windshield, which is far more expensive.
When Replacement Is the Better Choice
Some situations call for replacement rather than repair. If the crack is longer than a few inches, deep enough to penetrate both layers of glass, or in the driver’s primary line of sight, replacing the windshield will ensure the best visibility and safety.
Modern windshields often house advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) sensors and cameras. When replacement is necessary, these systems may need to be recalibrated to ensure they work correctly. This is another reason why qualified professionals should do windshield work.
DIY Repair Kits: Are They Worth It
You can find do-it-yourself windshield repair kits at auto parts stores, but they have limitations. While they may temporarily stop a small chip or crack from spreading, they do not match the quality and strength of a professional repair.
Improperly applied resin can leave bubbles, haze, or distortions in the glass. Worse, a failed DIY attempt can make it harder for a technician to repair the damage later. For the best results, small cracks should be repaired by a trained technician with professional tools and materials.
Protecting Your Windshield in the Future
While you cannot prevent every crack or chip, you can reduce the risk by:
- Keeping a safe following distance to avoid rocks kicked up by other vehicles
- Avoiding sudden temperature changes, such as blasting a cold windshield with hot air in winter
- Parking in shaded or covered areas to limit sun exposure and heat stress
- These habits can help extend the life of your windshield and reduce the likelihood of damage.
Windshield Repair at Ally Auto Service in Omaha, NE
If you have a small crack in your windshield, do not wait until it spreads. At
Ally Auto Service in Omaha, NE, our technicians can quickly assess the damage and inform you of the potential repair options. We use professional-grade materials to restore your windshield’s strength and clarity, helping you stay safe on the road. Schedule your windshield inspection today and address small cracks before they develop into major issues.
