If you discover a crack or chip in your windshield, you may be unsure of what to do. There are a number of things that you should do, as well as a number of things that you shouldn't do, once you discover a crack or chip in your car's windshield.

What You Need To Do

The first thing that you should do if you discover a crack or chip in your windshield is to measure it. If the crack is less than a foot long, or if the chip is smaller than the size of a quarter, then you should be able to repair the chip or crack on your own or take it to an auto glass place to have it repaired. If the chip or crack are larger than these measurements, you will have to have your windshield replaced at an auto glass replacement center.

You also need to ensure that the crack or the chip is not in a location that obstructs your view. If it is, you should avoid driving your vehicle until you can have the chip or crack repaired or your windshield replaced.

You also need to ensure that you keep dirt out of your crack or chip. Dirt will make it harder for the chip or crack to be repaired. You should also keep the area clean and dry. If water gets into the crack or chip, it can freeze and expand the damaged area. You should wipe the area down, and then cover it with a piece of large, clear plastic tape to prevent water or dirt from infiltrating the crack or chip. 

What You Shouldn't Do 

The main thing you shouldn't do is to ignore your crack or chip. Ignoring the crack or chip will ensure that it will eventually spread, and then you might have to end up paying more to have your windshield repaired or replaced entirely. 

You should avoid using your defroster or your air conditioner on high until you can have your windshield fixed. Extreme temperatures can cause the crack or chip to get worse.

You also need to avoid putting pressure on the windshield, as pressure can make the problem worse. Avoid going through car washes or using ice scrapers until your windshield can be repaired. Try to avoid slamming your car's doors, as this can jostle the glass and add to the damage. 

Keep these tips in mind to ensure that you don't make the damage worse for your windshield and that you can stay safe while driving. Contact a glass repair shop, like Glass Pro, to fix the damage.

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