Windshield damage is a common problem for car owners, but that doesn’t make it any less of a hassle to deal with. A cracked windshield can obstruct your view, making it difficult to drive, and can even impact the glass’s structural integrity in a car accident, increasing your risk of injury. So what are the most common causes of windshield damage, and what can you reasonably do to prevent that damage from occurring? Keep reading to find out.
Rock Chips
Damage from rocks, thrown up by the cars in front of you, is by far the most common form of windshield damage that drivers experience. That sudden, loud crack and the instantaneous appearance of a bullseye mark on your windshield is something that almost everyone has experienced—and almost everyone has said a few choice words when it happens.
While there’s no way to prevent this entirely (you can’t control what’s on the road), you can reduce the odds of it happening by giving a proper following distance to the cars in front of you. Also, be on the lookout for trucks hauling rocks or other such debris that might bounce loose of the load and strike your windshield; if you can, avoid being behind these vehicles.
Hail Damage
Houston might not get much snow, but hail is relatively common. If your car was parked outside in a hailstorm, it’s possible for a large hailstone to chip your windshield. While it’s much more likely that hail will dent the hood and roof of your car, windshields can sometimes be damaged too. These marks will likely bear the same bullseye shape of a rock chip and will be repaired in much the same way.
If the weather predicts hail, try to park where your car has some cover. If a garage or carport is not available, put a slipcover on over your vehicle, or at least park it under the overhanging branches of a large tree to give it a little bit of extra protection.
Stray Toys
Houses’ windows aren’t the only ones that get broken by stray baseballs. Sometimes, a ball or other toy can strike your car’s windshield just right so that it leaves a chip or crack. Unfortunately, this type of damage can happen any time your car is parked outside and kids are about. Your best line of defense is to park in the garage, but if this option isn’t available, just try to remind your kids not to play too close to your car.
If your car’s windshield is chipped or cracked, take it in for Audi service in Houston to see if it can be repaired, or if you need to replace your windshield.
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