Understanding the Windshield Replacement Process

Discovering a significant crack or small chip in your windshield is stressful. You know you can’t drive around with a damaged windshield so the need to remedy the issue becomes urgent. When your windshield is compromised, it can obstruct your view and weaken your vehicle’s structural integrity. 

You need to understand the windshield replacement process so you’re prepared when selecting an auto glass replacement service. Hiring a reputable auto glass replacement service is essential for a smooth and efficient experience. Below is a guide to the entire process so you can navigate this crucial automotive service. 

1. Assess the Damage

The first thing you need to do is evaluate your windshield’s condition. Sometimes small chips and minor cracks can be repaired, but it depends on their size and location. For example, a crack in the driver’s line of sight would typically not be repairable. Larger cracks and damage in crucial areas, like the edge of the windshield, typically require a full windshield replacement. 

2. Choose a Reputable Auto Glass Replacement Service

When you’re searching for a reliable auto glass replacement service you want them to be certified and well-reviewed. You want a technician with experience working on your specific make and model and willing to work with your insurance provider. Selecting a trusted auto glass replacement service can be the difference between a well-replaced windshield and a not-so-great job.

In your search, you should consider a mobile auto glass replacement service. A reputable mobile auto glass replacement service brings efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and convenience to windshield replacement that in-shop services can’t provide. 

3. Get a Quote

A reputable mobile auto glass service will be able to give you a quote when you call. But, if you’re wondering what a new windshield will cost, we can say that you can expect to spend between $300 and $600 on average, depending on the year, make, model, and whether there’s any ADAS technology. Don’t forget to ask about warranties on the glass and workmanship. 

4. Schedule an Appointment

Once you’ve decided to move forward you can schedule an appointment time with the provider. If you select a mobile auto glass replacement service, they can get out to you on the same day, in most cases. You also don’t have to deal with getting your vehicle to the shop or having to spend so much valuable time in the waiting room. 

Mobile auto glass services come to you so you can go about your day doing what you’d rather be doing. The mobile auto glass technician will know what glass to bring with them and have all the necessary tools to complete the windshield replacement. 

5. Replacing the Windshield

The mobile auto glass technician will arrive at the scheduled time, whether it’s your home or where you work. Then the technician will assess the damage to be sure a replacement is necessary. Then they will use specialized tools to remove the damaged glass taking great care to detach it from your vehicle’s frame. 

Next, they’ll inspect the surrounding area to be sure it’s free of rust and debris. If they find any they will clean it and repair any damage they find as well. They do this so that nothing interferes with placing the new windshield. 

Then, the technician will apply an adhesive to the frame of your vehicle. With more specialized tools, the technician will place the new glass in the frame with care. The technician wants to ensure the new windshield is aligned correctly and firmly in place. Once the technician has placed the windshield they will remove any excess adhesive and clean up. 

6. ADAS Calibration

If your vehicle comes with any Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like emergency braking or lane keeping assist then you will need a calibration of the ADAS technology in the new windshield. Many of these ADAS features work with cameras and sensors placed in and around your windshield. 

When you have the windshield replaced the new ADAS technology needs calibration so your safety features function properly. Some drivers want to skip the ADAS calibration but that’s not a smart move. Doing so can void your warranty and even give your insurance company enough reason not to cover an accident if it was due to faulty safety systems. Click here to learn more about ADAS technology.

7. Post-Installation Care

Once the technician has completed the ADAS calibration they will provide you with care instructions to help you preserve your new windshield. One of the most important things is that you need to let the adhesive cure properly, and this typically takes about an hour. Another reason mobile auto glass services are a better choice. You can wait at home or work for the adhesive to cure, not in the waiting room of a shop. 

Once you can drive, the technician will suggest that you avoid washing the car for a bit and refrain from using the windshield wipers. They may also suggest you leave your windows cracked a bit to promote the curing process. 

Do You Need a Windshield Replacement In Murfreesboro, TN?

If you live, work, or are driving through Franklin, Murfreesboro, Lebanon, or La Vergne, TN and your windshield has suffered some damage contact us at Glass Monkey. Our windshield replacement technicians will assess the situation with one phone call and give you a quote. Then our mobile technicians will get out to you at the time you request to replace your windshield quickly and with minimal disruption to your life.