How to help your customers determine if a windshield replacement is necessary

Sept. 8, 2020
For seasoned technicians like you, figuring out if a windshield needs to be replaced is easy. However, the same is not true for most of your customers.

For seasoned technicians like you, figuring out if a windshield needs to be replaced is easy. However, the same is not true for most of your customers. With that said, most of them can use some help figuring out when a windshield repair would suffice and when a windshield replacement is necessary.

While the windshield is one of the first things people notice when they look at a car, many are not aware it is crucial to visual navigation when they’re on the road more than aesthetics. A damaged windshield can make driving a nuisance and can put their lives and that of others at risk.

While it's effortless for them to spot massive cracks on the windshield, it's also easy for your customers to miss the small scratches and tiny cracks. Preventing chips on the windshield can be difficult for some people. Fortunately, specific measures can be done to limit the damage.

One foolproof way would be to have the windshield replaced only by trusted mobile auto glass repair shops. There are instances, however, when the windshield damage is beyond repair. In similar scenarios, the only viable option is windshield replacement.

So how can your customers figure out if it's time for a new windshield? Educate them to look for the following red flags:

It is blocking their view. One of the most glaring signs their windshield needs replacement is when it starts blocking their view. Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as a little chip, discoloration, or crack. A considerable part of their driving ability depends on their ability to make split-second decisions.

That being said, when they mistake a tiny crack in their windshield for another vehicle in their "blind spot," they can either end up with a damaged front or, worse, a wrecked car. As a general rule of thumb, once their windshield starts to block their view, advise them to get it replaced right away.

It has several chips. Likely, they won't need a full windshield replacement if a flying rock or other objects causes chips in their windshield. Fortunately, chips can be repaired easily. However, just like cracks, chips can cause issues and might require replacement eventually.

It does not look or feel the same after winter. Winters can be unforgiving to humans, but it can be harsh for vehicles as well. Winter is when vehicles get exposed to cold weather and heavy hail, snow, or silt.

This exposure can cause chips, cracks, and pits in the windshield. If anything, the cold months can be a critical time for their windshield, so they need to ensure they are adequately protected at all times. Otherwise, the windshields can get damaged beyond repair.

When their vehicle's windshield looks and feels different, it might be a sign to get it replaced. Once its integrity has been compromised, continuous exposure to harsh environments might wreck it.

Recommend that they play it safe at all times by getting their windshield replaced so it won't cause any issues, especially while they're on the road.

It has some missing parts. If a part of their car's windshield is missing, let them know it would be a good idea if they get it replaced right away. When the windshield has some missing parts, roaches, flies, and spiders might enter the vehicle. It is also essential that they don't wait for anything like that to happen, as it might put their safety in jeopardy.

It has massive scratches. Scratches on windshields are often attributed to worn-out wipers. While surface scratches won't compromise the windshield's integrity, they might make it hard for them to see things while driving. That's a driving hazard they need to avoid at all costs.

Also, they can avoid putting themselves and others at risk by checking with a professional so they'll be given proper guidance on what to do. While repairs are recommended for minor scratches, they might be advised to go through the whole replacement process when the scratches have gotten out of hand.

It they are due for a vehicular inspection. If they have a safety inspection coming up, they need to ensure they will pass. Otherwise, they can face fees and fines. Any damage that's found on the driver's side of the windshield is considered a no-go. The same thing applies to anything that interferes with the wipers.

While some can get away with minor windshield damage, it's better to play safe than sorry. In most cases, it is considered ideal to have the entire windshield replaced when there's apparent damage, and the car will go through the lens of an inspector.

Once the windshield is compromised, recommend that they take action right away before they or someone else ends up getting hurt. Given that they work only with professionals, they are ensured their windshield won't compromise their safety while on the road.

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