Identify the mark before treating it
A deposit on the surface, a scratch in the glass and a chip or crack need different attention. Start with the cleaning method permitted for your vehicle and any installed tint, coating or protection film. Our windshield maintenance checklist covers routine checks for the glass and wipers.
Check the exact product and surface
Do not assume that ordinary rubbing compound or an unspecified acrylic scratch remover is suitable for a windshield. Check the product label and the care instructions for the glass and any film or coating. Generic rubbing times and waiting periods do not establish compatibility.
Understand what glass polishing does
Cerium-oxide glass polish is used in controlled polishing of some slight scratches. It does not seal a scratch by being left to dry. For example, SONAX Glass Polish requires controlled polishing and cooling precautions, can remove coatings and excludes stone-chipped windows. Those product-specific directions are not a general windshield repair recipe.
Get damage assessed
If a mark remains after approved cleaning, have it identified before choosing another treatment. Arrange an auto-glass assessment for a chip, crack or mark that interferes with your view. Our guide to recognizing windshield damage explains how to approach the next step. Repair or replacement depends on the damage and the applicable vehicle and repair guidance.
Check the wipers too
If marks follow the path of the blades, read our guidance on wipers that leave marks. Check blade condition and use the vehicle manufacturer’s maintenance instructions. A scratch is not automatically a crack, and a chip-repair method should not be assumed to treat a scratch.