Although replacing your auto glass is a delicate job, professional windshield installers know how to get it right. However, you also have a role to play in the integrity of your brand new auto glass. Specifically, you should take these aftercare measures to ensure your new windshield doesn't get damaged before it can serve you:
Don't Drive Right Away
It takes time for the adhesive used to hold the glass in place to settle. That is why you are advised not to drive right away after the replacement. The mechanic will advise you on how long you need to wait before driving. Ensure you adhere to the recommended time. This means an auto glass replacement is not something you should schedule when you are in a hurry.
Don't Wash the Car Right Away
Light water, such as a quick drizzle or a hand car wash, may not affect your new windshield adhesion (although it's better to wait if you can). However, a pressure wash will definitely interfere with the adhesion and lead to potential water leaks in the near future. Therefore, don't pressure wash your car for a day or two, and wait the recommended time as advised by the mechanic.
Don't Slam Your Doors for a While
As you can see, most of the advice relating to windshield replacement aftercare is concerned with the adhesion of the windshield glass. You need to leave the glass alone and let it settle in place before subjecting it to forces that may dislodge it. For example, slamming the doors (especially with the windows rolled up) can build pressure inside the car and interfere with the set of the glass.
Leave the Tape On For the Recommended Time
The glass replacement mechanic will use a retention tape to hold the glass in place until the adhesion is dry. Leave this tape in place, even if you think it's unsightly, for as long as you have been advised by the mechanic. Otherwise, you may interfere with the curing of the adhesion and affect the positioning of the glass.
Don't Let Anything Push against the Glass
Anything that pushes against the glass immediately after the replacement can interfere with its positioning. For this reason, don't put things on the dashboard, including a dash mart, for a short while (say a day) while the adhesion cures.
Hopefully, you won't be dealing with windshield damage any time soon. If your windshield does get damaged and you replace it, follow your auto repair mechanic's aftercare instructions to maintain the windshield's integrity.
I have never been an especially handy person, but a few years ago I decided that I needed to learn more about my vehicle. I was tired of always relying on someone else to fix things, so I began reading more and more about the process. I realized that there were a lot of things that I needed to do, so I began taking a little course on at-home auto service. I still have a lot to learn, but now I can at least go through and change my air filter and check my oil. Read this blog to learn more about auto service.