Knowing that a car is composed of tens of thousands of parts, with the passage of time and increasing mileage, the performance of functional components (including lubricants) gradually decreases due to wear, aging, and corrosion.
This degradation spreads gradually to many parts.
Therefore, regular replacement or maintenance checks are needed to keep the overall condition of the car stable, ensure the safety of the vehicle, detect and solve problems early, prevent minor issues from becoming major ones, extend the lifespan of the car, and achieve the goal of "maintenance instead of repair" or even "never requiring major repairs" throughout its lifetime.
The windshield, as one of a car's most crucial safety components, is a focal point for owners to inspect. If you're unsure whether your windshield needs repair/replacement, here are some signals you should pay attention to:
1. Reduced visibility through the glass:
A damaged windshield is dangerous; it reduces visibility while driving, especially in adverse weather conditions, and can distort your view of the road. If there are cracks, replacing the windshield as soon as possible is essential.
Delaying replacement will exacerbate the impact of the cracks. Also, scratches on the windshield should not be ignored as they may worsen over time, similarly affecting visibility. If scratches are noticed, addressing them at a professional auto glass shop is advisable.
2. "White fog" around the edges of the glass:
The windshield typically contains a special plastic layer called Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) in the middle. In the event of a collision, it effectively adheres to tiny, sharp fragments of the windshield to prevent secondary injuries.
Additionally, the PVB membrane provides structural integrity to the windshield, enabling it to withstand impacts from external objects, preventing glass penetration and potential harm to occupants. However, if you notice a "white fog" around the windshield's edges, it indicates damage to the PVB layer, causing it to separate from the glass. This compromises the crucial function of the PVB membrane, posing significant risks to you and your passengers.
3. Glass leaking water:
Is there water seeping into the interior of your windshield? If so, this is a strong indicator that you need to replace the windshield, as it likely suggests that the adhesive used to bond the windshield to the frame has deteriorated.
Glass leaks can cause numerous problems, including seat damage, interior trim, and the vehicle's electrical system. While property damage may be manageable, the safety hazards of leaks are incalculable. Therefore, if you notice water leaking into your car through the windshield, you must visit a professional auto glass shop to address this issue.
4. Glass dents:
Automobile windshield dents are caused by debris, such as small stones and dust hitting the windshield, leading to cracks and pits over time. Driving frequently on highways or roads with gravel is a common cause of dents. Dents make it more challenging to see the road clearly, rendering driving extremely dangerous.
On sunny days, they scatter sunlight reflections, reducing visibility. During storms, dents impede rainwater from flowing quickly onto the windshield, distorting the driving view and creating safety hazards.
5. Missing windshield components:
Some car owners may attempt to repair damaged windshield parts using tape. But do you know why this isn't a wise choice? That's because temporary repairs fail to provide structural support for the windshield! The windshield is a crucial safety component of the car, providing structural support for the entire frame.
In a dangerous situation, the windshield support prevents the roof from collapsing onto occupants. However, if you casually use tape to repair the windshield, it may cause the glass structure to sag, potentially resulting in severe injuries in the event of a collision.
