CARSTAR Body Shop Blog

We’ve all seen it happen. Debris kicked up from the road. A stray rock hits your windshield just right. Even a bird or other wildlife. Regardless of how it got there, spotting a crack in your windshield can quickly turn a good day into a stressful one, leaving you wondering whether a cracked windshield can be repaired.

Fortunately, the answer is often yes. Whether a small chip or a larger crack, many types of windshield damage can be effectively repaired, especially when addressed early. At CARSTAR, our services include professional windshield repair work that restore the clarity and strength of your auto glass. Our technicians are trained to assess the damage and implement the most reliable repair or, if necessary, replacement techniques to ensure your vehicle’s safety and that your visibility remains uncompromised.

How Big of a Windshield Chip Can Be Repaired?

Determining how big of a windshield chip can be repaired can make a big difference. After all, avoiding a windshield replacement can save a lot of time and money. Whether windshield damage can be repaired depends on several vital factors, including:

• Size: Chips smaller than a quarter and cracks less than three inches long are typically repairable.
• Depth: Shallow cracks that only affect the outer layer of glass are more likely to be repairable.
• Location: Chips located away from the driver’s direct line of sight are ideal candidates for repairs.

At CARSTAR, our technicians use techniques and materials that allow us to mend chips and cracks with precision, ensuring your windshield’s durability and your vehicle’s safety. If you’re unsure about the repairability of your windshield damage, visit your nearest CARSTAR location or contact us for a professional assessment. 

Commonly Unrepairable Cracks

While many windshield cracks can be repaired, there are some situations where a repair might not be possible, including cracks:

• More than three inches
• Extending into other layers of your windshield
• With multiple branches or a spiderweb pattern
• Reaching the edge of the windshield
• Filled with debris and dirt
• Located in the driver’s direct line of sight
• Formed in tempered glass

We recommend getting a professional evaluation as soon as you notice any damage to determine if a repair is viable or if a replacement is necessary to ensure your safety and the vehicle’s integrity. 

What to Do If You Have a Cracked Windshield

Now that you’ve got a better idea of whether a rock chip in a windshield can be repaired, let’s go over what to do if you discover a crack in your windshield. Here are the steps you should take to ensure the crack doesn’t worsen while awaiting a repair:

• Assess the damage: Check the size and location of the crack. Remember, if it’s smaller than a quarter, isn’t in the driver’s direct line of sight, isn’t too deep, and isn’t near the edge of your windshield, it may be repairable.
• Protect the crack: Temporarily cover the crack with clear adhesive tape to prevent moisture and dirt from entering, which can worsen the damage.
• Avoid temperature extremes: Sudden temperature changes can cause the glass to expand or contract, potentially widening the crack. Avoid using hot water to defrost your windshield in the winter, and try to park in the shade on hot days.
• Contact a professional: Schedule an appointment with CARSTAR for a professional assessment. Our experts can advise you on whether the windshield can be repaired or needs replacing.

Taking these steps promptly can prevent further damage and may save you from needing a total windshield replacement. 

When Is the Best Time to Get Your Windshield Repaired?

The best time to get your windshield repaired is as soon as you notice any damage because even a small crack can quickly grow and compromise the safety of your vehicle. Some of the most important reasons you shouldn’t delay pursuing a repair include:

• Safety concerns: A damaged windshield can impair your vision and weaken the structural integrity of your vehicle in a crash.
• Cost savings: Repairing a small crack is generally less expensive than replacing the entire windshield.
• Prevent further damage: Changes in temperature and rough driving conditions can cause cracks to quickly expand.

You can have a cracked windshield repaired right away by contacting CARSTAR for a professional evaluation and timely repair. 

Visit CARSTAR for Your Windshield Repair

Now that you know it’s possible to repair a cracked windshield, it’s time to consult with a CARSTAR professional. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality windshield repair services you can rely on. Our skilled technicians are equipped with advanced tools and techniques to effectively handle any windshield damage. Whether it’s a small chip or a more extensive crack, we are here to help.

Don’t let windshield damage compromise your safety on the road. Visit a CARSTAR location near you today, and let us take care of the rest.