Your vehicle’s windshield does more than just provide a clear line of sight while driving. It contributes significantly to the safety and stability of your car.
In a rollover accident, the windshield helps to keep the roof intact, and it ensures that airbags deploy in the right position to protect passengers.
Additionally, your vehicle’s windshield helps in ensuring the proper deployment of airbags during a major front-impact crash. It acts as a backstop that ensures airbags inflate correctly and cushion passengers effectively during a collision. If the windshield is damaged, it can compromise the airbag’s performance, increasing the risk of injury to the passengers.
If your vehicle’s windshield has suffered significant damage, an immediate windshield replacement is crucial to ensure not only your safety, but the safety of your passengers as well.
Windshield Replacement Aftercare (The First 48 Hours)
Following your windshield replacement service, it’s important to be aware of what you should and should not do during the first 48 hours as the adhesive cures.
Improper aftercare can negatively affect the windshield’s performance and aesthetics, impacting its longevity and visibility. Neglecting essential post-replacement care can result in improper adhesive curing, leading to a weaker bond and an increased risk of the windshield detaching or leaking.
Here are some steps you must take during the first 48 hours after replacing your vehicle’s windshield:
- Keep Windows Slightly Open: Leave your car windows slightly open to prevent pressure buildup inside the vehicle, which can affect the curing process of the adhesive.
- Leave the Retention Tape On: If the technician applied retention tape, leave it in place for at least 24 hours to protect the adhesive and ensure proper setting.
- Close Doors Gently: Avoid slamming doors, as the pressure change can disturb the adhesive bond and potentially cause leaks or other issues.
- Keep Your Vehicle’s Interior Clean: Make sure that the interior, particularly near the windshield, remains free of dust and dirt. Clean surfaces help ensure the adhesive sets properly, providing a strong and secure bond.
Another important step is to wait for the adhesive to set before driving and follow the Minimum Drive-Away Time (MDAT), which is crucial for achieving a secure seal, which helps maintain the windshield’s structural integrity and prevents potential issues such as leaks.
How Soon Can I Drive My Car After Windshield Is Replaced?
Minimum Drive-Away Time (MDAT) is the recommended waiting period after a windshield replacement during which the vehicle should not be driven. This allows the adhesive to cure and ensure a secure bond properly. The length of MDAT can vary depending on factors such as the type of adhesive, weather conditions, and manufacturer guidelines.
Generally, standard adhesives require a wait of 2 to 4 hours before driving. In ideal conditions, the wait for fast-curing adhesives can be as short as one hour. Always consult your local auto glass technician in Oakville for specific recommendations.
What Not To Do After Windshield Replacement
After getting a windshield replacement, it’s vital to know what you need to avoid to allow the adhesive to set correctly and ensure the windshield stays in place.
A windshield replacement can also be quite pricey, so it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to ensure you get the most out of your new installation and keep your car safe.
- Avoid Getting a Car Wash During the First 48 Hours: It can be tempting to get a car wash following a replacement to finish off the repair with a spotless vehicle, but the high-pressure water and harsh chemicals can interfere with the adhesive curing process, leading to leaks or weakening the bond.
- Don’t Rest Items Against the Glass: Keep the dashboard of your vehicle clear for at least 24 hours after the installation, and avoid using any exterior covers. It’s important not to let anything touch the windshield while the seal cures to ensure a proper bond.
- Steer Clear of Bumpy or Gravel Roads: Your windshield is extremely vulnerable after a replacement, and driving on rough terrain can cause vibrations that disrupt the adhesive’s curing process, potentially weakening the bond and leading to issues like leaks or cracks.
- Do Not Use Defrost or Heat on High: Avoid using the defroster or heater on high settings. Sudden temperature changes can interfere with the adhesive’s curing process and cause stress on the new windshield.
- Avoid Parking in Direct Sunlight: The heat from direct sunlight can cause the adhesive to cure too quickly and unevenly, compromising the bond. To ensure a proper seal, park your vehicle in a shaded or covered area during the curing period.
- Do Not Adjust the Rearview Mirror: Avoid adjusting the rearview mirror attached to the windshield, as this can exert pressure on the new adhesive and disrupt the curing process.
- Avoid Aggressive Driving: Avoid aggressive maneuvers such as sudden braking, sharp turns, or rapid acceleration. Such actions can create vibrations that may impact the curing process of the adhesive.
- Choose Safe Parking Spots: Avoid parking under trees where falling branches or sap can hit the windshield and potentially disrupt the adhesive bond during the curing period.
Long-Term Care Tips for Your Newly-Replaced Windshield
There are several things you must take note of to ensure the longevity of your newly-replaced windshield. Here are some things you can do to maintain your windshield:
- Regularly Clean Your Windshield: Clean your windshield regularly with non-ammonia-based glass cleaners and a soft microfiber cloth to avoid damaging the glass and adhesive. Steer clear of harsh chemicals that can damage the glass or weaken the adhesive over time.
- Make Sure to Replace Your Windshield Wiper Blades: Change your windshield wiper blades every six months or as soon as you notice streaking. Worn wipers can scratch the windshield and reduce visibility.
- Maintain Safe Distance When Driving: Keep a safe distance from vehicles ahead, especially on gravel roads, to avoid stones and debris hitting your windshield.
- Use Sunshades to Protect Your Windshield from UV Rays: Exposing your windshield to direct sunlight for extended periods can weaken the adhesive and cause the glass to warp. By using sunshades, you not only protect the interior of your car from heat damage but also help maintain the integrity and longevity of your windshield.
- Avoid Using Ice Scrapers: During winter, avoid using hard ice scrapers that can scratch the windshield. Use a de-icer spray and a soft brush instead.
- Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines: After a windshield replacement, always follow the care and maintenance recommendations provided by the windshield manufacturer and the installation technician.
Regularly check your windshield for any chips, cracks, or other signs of damage. Early detection of minor issues can prevent them from becoming larger, more costly problems. If you notice any issues with your windshield, trust the professionals at Auto Glass Zone Oakville to provide quick and effective repairs, ensuring your vehicle stays safe and secure.
