How To Replace A Cracked Windshield

Your windshield is very important for your safety when driving. If it gets cracked or damaged, you should fix it right away. If the crack or chip is too big to repair, you will need to replace the windshield.

To do this, first, you must remove the rearview mirror, wipers, plastic covers, and rubber gasket around the windshield. Use a cold knife to cut the urethane seal that holds the windshield in place, then carefully remove the windshield.

Next, use a razor blade to clean up any leftover urethane and get the area ready for the new glass. After that, apply urethane primer, then run a line of urethane all around the edge.

Put the new windshield back in and let the urethane cure or dry completely. Finally, put back any parts you removed and replace the rubber gasket. Let’s learn more about it in this blog.

14 Things Required To Replace A Cracked Windshield

Gather All Tools & Materials

Before starting auto windshield replacement, collect all the tools and materials you will need. Keep in mind that buying tools can cost more than getting a professional to do the job. Here’s a list of what you need:

  1. Cold knife
  2. Glass cleaner
  3. Rubber windshield gasket
  4. Urethane primer
  5. Gloves
  6. Razor blade scraper
  7. Two suction-cup window holders
  8. Auto glass urethane
  9. Stiff nylon brush
  10. Caulk gun (electric or air-powered is better)
  11. Vacuum
  12. Painter’s tape
  13. Wire brush or sandpaper
  14. Hand tools (screwdriver, pliers, utility knife)

15 Steps To Replace a Cracked Windshield Effeciently

Below, you will find detailed steps to help you with the process. 

1.Remove the Rearview Mirror

Use hand tools to take off the rearview mirror and any parts attached to the old windshield.

2.Take Off the Wiper Blades and Gasket

Remove the wiper blades, the rubber gasket, and the plastic trim around the windshield.

3.Cut the Old Seal

Use a cold knife to separate the windshield from the pinch weld.

4.Remove the Old Windshield

Carefully cut the urethane seal around the edge of the windshield and take out the old glass. Be gentle so you don’t damage the paint.

5.Clean the Frame

Now that the frame is empty use a razor blade scraper to get rid of any old urethane. Don’t worry if some remain; a little helps the new urethane stick better. If you see any rust, clean it off with sandpaper or a wire brush.

6.Vacuum and Clean Up

Clean the area with a stiff nylon brush and vacuum up any debris.

7.Clean the New Windshield

Use glass cleaner to wipe the edges of the new windshield where the urethane will go.

8.Apply Urethane Primer

Put urethane primer on the old urethane and the edge of the new windshield. Check the product instructions; not all require this step.

9.Apply Urethane

Use a caulk gun to lay a smooth line of urethane around the windshield frame. An electric caulk gun makes this easier. If using a manual one, warm the urethane in a bowl of water for an hour.

10.Fill Any Gaps

If you see any gaps in the urethane, fill them in before moving on.

11.Install the New Windshield

Quickly place the new windshield in to prevent the urethane from curing.

12.Use Suction Cups

Use suction-cup window holders to lower the new windshield into place. It helps to have a friend assist you.

13.Position the Windshield

Make sure the windshield is in the right spot.

14.Tape It Down

Use painter’s tape to hold the windshield in place while the urethane dries.

15.Final Touches

Let the urethane cure for the time the manufacturer suggests. Then, reinstall the wipers, gasket, trim, rearview mirror, and any other parts you removed. If your car has ADAS, consider taking it to a dealer for calibration.

How big of a crack can be repaired on a windshield?

Usually, if a crack is less than three inches long (about the size of a short side of a dollar bill), it can be fixed by putting a clear resin in the outer layer. However, if the crack is longer, it can expose the inside layers of the windshield, which may make it weak and less safe.

Is it OK to leave a crack unfixed in your windshield?

No, it’s always dangerous. If the windshield has a small crack that’s far from the driver’s line of sight and the edge of the glass, it’s okay to leave it for a little while. However, if the crack gets bigger or if you live in an area with snow or freezing temperatures, it’s best to prioritize getting it repaired.

Conclusion

Replacing the cracked windshieldis important for safety, especially if your car has a driver assistance system (ADAS). If you choose to do it yourself, gather the necessary tools like a cold knife, glass cleaner, urethane primer, and a caulk gun.

First, remove the rearview mirror, wipers, and the old windshield. Clean the frame and apply urethane primer before placing the new windshield. Use suction cups for positioning and tape it down while the urethane cures. If this process feels overwhelming, consider hiring a professional service for easy replacement.

Stephen Madison
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