You hit the gas, but took your eyes off the road for just a second—and BAM!
If you were involved in a similar incident, it’s fortunate that your life was spared! But in accidents this intense, it’s rare for your windshield to be as lucky.
A shattered windshield needs replacement rather than chip repair. Have a qualified technician assess the vehicle and the damage.
But there’s a post-installation care routine that you must follow. Without proper maintenance, even your new windshield can fall into a state of disrepair. Here are a few tips for aftercare.
· Wait before driving
If you’ve gotten your car windshield replaced after a long time, you’re probably excited about getting behind the wheel once again!
Do not drive until the installer confirms that the adhesive manufacturer’s minimum safe drive-away time for the installation conditions and any required vehicle-specific calibration have been satisfied. AAR also instructs customers to avoid driving or drive minimally during the first 24 hours after installation. This aftercare period is separate from the time needed to complete the installation and the mandatory drive-away release.
· Let the seal dry safely
It’s not safe for there to be any breaks in the barrier while the seal on the new windshield is drying.
Avoid leaving things lying on the dashboard or glove compartment. Similarly, don’t leave any heavy objects to rest against the windshield on the car’s exterior. This includes sunshades as well. It’s important that the areas near the windshield are free of clutter, so the seal isn’t disturbed while it’s drying.
· Leave a window slightly open
Follow AAR’s aftercare instructions: leave a window rolled down about one inch and avoid slamming doors for at least 24 hours after installation. These precautions do not replace the minimum safe drive-away time or any required calibration.
· Don’t remove the retention tape
Our technicians use a retention tape to hold the new windshield moldings securely in place. Keep applied tape in place for at least 24 hours after installation, as AAR’s aftercare instructions require.
However car owners often pull it off because it ruins the aesthetic appeal of their car. While we understand that it might be an eyesore for as long as it takes to dry completely, it’s best to leave it on for a while.
· Avoid car washes
If you’ve recently gotten your windshield replaced, avoid getting your car washed right after. The new moldings can shift or get damaged if they don’t get enough time to set. High-pressure car washes can damage the installation.
Automatic car washes and power washers aren’t advised either. If it’s absolutely necessary for you to wash and clean your car soon after you get a new windshield installed, go for manual cleaning.
We offer auto glass and windshield repair and replacement in Houston, TX. Call us for all your auto glass needs; we won’t disappoint!