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How to Tell if You Need Windshield Replacement

Here at McConnell Auto Glass, we understand that it’s stressful to drive around with a cracked windshield, worrying about your vehicle’s safety or about how much the repairs will cost. To spare you from that worry, we have put together this article to help you determine if you really need windshield replacement.

Published March 25, 2021Updated December 2, 20252 min read
Two McConnell technicians positioning windshield glass on a white vehicle
  • Check the Size –In order to tell whether you need a windshield replacement or not, first check the size of the crack. In most cases, if the crack is longer than a dollar bill, the glass will need to be replaced. Anything smaller than that, however, can usually be repaired.
  • Check the Depth –Another factor that our team considers is the depth of the crack. In most cases, minor cracks stay on the dermal layer of the glass, in which case the glass is still relatively stable and strong. However, if the crack penetrates halfway into the thickness of the glass, or more, then the windshield should be replaced.
  • Check the Placement-Lastly, the placement of the chip or crack matters when it comes to windshield replacement vs. repair. If the damage extends to the outside edge of the windshield, our team recommends replacement.

We hope that this information has been helpful, and we encourage you to give us a call if you ever have windshield problems. We are a preferred vendor for insurance companies, so you can count on us to guide you through every step of the process and deliver the results you deserve.

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