Types of Cracks in Windshield: Are They Safe?
Cracks in your car’s windshield can be everything from annoying to downright frightening. Debris from the road or surrounding environment can do quite a bit of damage to your vehicle's glass, even small stones can mean big trouble. That is why it is important to know when a chip is serious enough to be taken in for a replacement, or just pull over and wait for a tow truck.
Types of Cracks
Some people are curious whether or not they can pass inspection with a crack in their windshield. In the United States, federal regulations state that any crack or damage smaller than ¾ of an inch in diameter is permitted. That is as long as the fracture is not within 3 inches of another crack or if it is located directly in front of the driver’s view.
Small windshield cracks are the most common type of windshield damage and usually can be ignored if they are located outside of your viewpoint. However, if they are located along the edge of the windshield or begin to spider, then it is definitely time to replace your windshield. A damaged windshield with multiple fissures or edge cracks can be difficult to repair, as the strength of the vehicle itself may be in question.
Larger cracks, stress cracks, and damage where pieces of glass are loose are calls for immediate concern, and you should not continue driving. If any of these events occur, do your best to pull over safely and call for assistance. It is much safer to contact others for auto glass repair or replacement than it is to risk driving with a damaged windshield.
If you are in need of windshield repair, then contact the service center at Hawk Chevy in Joliet today.
Types of Cracks
Some people are curious whether or not they can pass inspection with a crack in their windshield. In the United States, federal regulations state that any crack or damage smaller than ¾ of an inch in diameter is permitted. That is as long as the fracture is not within 3 inches of another crack or if it is located directly in front of the driver’s view.
Small windshield cracks are the most common type of windshield damage and usually can be ignored if they are located outside of your viewpoint. However, if they are located along the edge of the windshield or begin to spider, then it is definitely time to replace your windshield. A damaged windshield with multiple fissures or edge cracks can be difficult to repair, as the strength of the vehicle itself may be in question.
Larger cracks, stress cracks, and damage where pieces of glass are loose are calls for immediate concern, and you should not continue driving. If any of these events occur, do your best to pull over safely and call for assistance. It is much safer to contact others for auto glass repair or replacement than it is to risk driving with a damaged windshield.
If you are in need of windshield repair, then contact the service center at Hawk Chevy in Joliet today.
