You’d be surprised at the number of drivers in Lanham, MD, who think a chipped windshield is a minor annoyance they can live with, significantly if the damage does not impair vision. But that tiny crack can become a major problem, causing costly repairs and possibly risking people’s lives.
Why You Should Never Ignore a Chipped Windshield
A cracked windshield will eventually weaken the structural integrity of your vehicle and could result in shattering upon slight impact or extreme weather. The repair will also become more expensive as the damage spreads.
In some cases, a broken windshield can also impact your vehicle’s airbag deployment system, reducing its effectiveness in case of a crash. Your vision could also be impaired, as the chip can cause a glare on the glass that obscures your view of the road.
Leaks
Small cracks in the glass will allow water to pass through, leading to rust that can compromise your vehicle’s structure. However, not all leaks are obvious, and you’ll need an expert to inspect your windshield and tell you if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Most leaks can be stopped with a sealant, which is much cheaper than a full windshield replacement. But it’s also worth mentioning that the sealant can only be used on small chips.
Legality in Lanham, MD
In addition to the safety concerns, it’s also possible that your cracked windshield could land you in legal trouble. In MD, a chip or crack over three inches long is considered unsafe and can lead to a ticket from law enforcement. This means that you not only have an unsafe car, but you’ll also have to pay a hefty fine.
Resale Value
Even if you avoid a ticket or additional issues, potential buyers may feel uncomfortable purchasing a vehicle with damaged glass. This is especially true for luxury cars where buyers expect perfection.
Selling a car with a cracked windshield is possible, but you won’t get the same price as an undamaged vehicle. However, this assumes you have a replaceable windshield. Classic car glass is harder to find and can be expensive.
As you can see, ignoring a damaged windshield is a bad idea for multiple reasons. You could end up dealing with an enormous repair bill or put yourself and other drivers in grave danger. Contact DARCARS Ford of Lanham today and take advantage of our comprehensive care of your cracked windshield. Your safety is too important to put at risk, so fix those chips now and drive with peace of mind.
Image by Dibyendu Joardar from Pixabay
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