Car Care for Windshield Cracks : Bob Ciasulli

Winter Car Care: Windshield Cracks

Myself Bob Ciasulli, I owns and operates numerous car dealerships in northern New Jersey. Now that we were well into the winter months, you have no doubt experienced wet roads, ice, snow, and harsh winter weather conditions. If you have been driving on roads or underneath highway underpasses, you may have experienced chunks of salt and flying rocks hitting your windshield. These small rocks can cause cracks, dings, and dents that can later result in larger cracks and costly damage. Driving behind a truck can be dangerous as well; rocks can fly into your windshield and cause similar damage. Any tiny crack, ding, dent,or hole in your vehicle windshield can quickly worsen, so be sure to read following tips to prevent and avoid windshield cracks.

Cracking: The morning wait for your windshield to defrost can seem like an eternity, but it’s worth it. If you have pre-existing small cracks and dings in your windshield, a quick morning defrost can exacerbate the situation and result in full on cracks. The extreme temperature change your windshield when you defrost the ice can be avoided if you turn the defroster on a low setting and allow the car to heat up gradually. Also, resist the urge to dump hot water over your windshield—the temperature change can also be damaging.

Windshield Cleaning: It can be difficult to properly care for your windshield in the winter months, however the type of windshield cleaner you use can really make a difference. Avoid ammonia and ammonia-based windshield cleaning solutions. These, aside from their toxic smelling odors can damage the tint on windows and damage to other surfaces as well, mainly rubber and leather. The rubber of your windshield wipers, car interior, car seats and upholstery can suffer if you choose to use these products. Before making your windshield cleaner purchase, read the ingredients to ensure you avoid harsh chemicals and stick with something safe for tinted windows. A good windshield wiper fluid will keep your windshield free of film, salt, and muddy residue that build up in the winter.

Windshield Wipers: Your wipers can get worn out over time, and salt, ice, and snow can really cause your wipers to degrade. It’s a good idea to get new wipers every winter to ensure their functionality in the worst weather conditions. Take the time to clean your wipers—wipe them down with a solution to keep them soft and effective. If your wipers become hard (extreme weather conditions, both hot and cold can have this effect) then they may actually cause damage to your windshield. Consider investing in an additional wiper fluid solution that will keep the rubber pliable and efficient. If you have a lot of ice on your windshield, wait before turning on your wipers—they can become damaged when scraped across rough ice.

Take care of all problems before they become major—and before winter settles in. Chips, cracks, holes, or any other dings in your windshield can become a full on crack due to winter weather and temperatures. Internal and external differences in temperature, car vibrations, pothole shocks, and other disturbances can grow quickly into a big repair job. Take the time protect your vehicle and you’ll enjoy years of safe driving.

Bio: Bob Ciasulli is owner of several car dealerships in northern New Jersey and he is very interested in automotive maintenance and safe driving habits. These tips are based on what he’s experienced on the road. He encourages you to drive safely and protect yourself and your fellow drivers.