A windshield is an important structural component of a vehicle. It is designed to protect the passengers from flying debris, wind noise and fatigue. However, something as minor as a chip can compromise its integrity and lead to further damage.
We have gathered details on how a windshield chip occurs and why you must get it repaired to prevent further consequences.
Causes of a Windshield Chip
We have gathered the following reasons and causes which lead to a windshield chip.
Road Debris
Road debris is one of the factors that cause a minor chip in a car’s windshield. Stones, gravel or pebbles can get stuck in the tyre treads and projectile towards the windshields of passing vehicles at a high speed.
Weather Changes
Extreme weather changes and summer heat damage your car’s windshield. Speaking of extremely hot weather in the UAE, it is advised to not leave your car under direct sunlight and turn on the air conditioning. This will cause the windshield to curve and crack due to tension and stress because of the temperature difference.
Manufacturing Defects and Incorrect Installation
Manufacturing defects and incorrect installation of windshields are also listed as a cause of chips and cracks. Poor-quality glass won’t be able to withstand the wind pressure, causing the windshield to collapse.
Similarly, incorrect installation and improper application of adhesive and resins to the windshield frame result in indigent car safety.
However, these causes and factors can be prevented to keep the car’s windshield intact. You can go through our guide on how to protect your car’s windshield for further information.
Now that we are aware of the causes, let’s move on to the explanation of why it is unsafe to drive a car with a chipped windshield.
Reasons You Shouldn’t Be Driving a Car with a Chipped Windshield
No matter what type of car windshield crack it is, it can spread with time if left unattended. Following are the reasons you shouldn’t be driving a car with a chipped windshield.
Vision Blockage
Chips or cracks on the car windshield create blind spots and distortion which blur your vision. This causes the light to reflect in different directions and causes vision impairment. Such obstructed vision is a major safety hazard and makes your vehicle accident-prone.
Debris Accumulation
Debris and dust accumulate in the crack, making it harder to repair. It also makes the chip expand more with time. Therefore, it must be covered with a layer of tape and plastic to prevent further buildup and must be repaired at the earliest.
Risk of Cracks
A chip on the car windshield may appear small and harmless, but it will expand with time. This process is called spider webbing in which the chip starts to spread across the windshield. It is influenced by different factors such as extreme weather conditions, road debris or driving over road bumps.
Less Protection
A damaged windshield decreases the integrity of a car significantly. Apart from seat belts and car airbags, it is an important car safety feature. Driving with a chipped windshield is a major safety concern since it hindrances the deployment of airbags and stops them from inflating.
It can also shatter quickly in a forceful impact or during a roll-over situation. Even driving over potholes and sudden turns or manoeuvres can cause the windshield to collapse. This results in reduced structural protection of the vehicle.
This is a wrap-up on the causes and consequences of driving a car with a chipped windshield. It may seem insignificant at first but must be repaired at the earliest to prevent the buildup of damage.
In case you’re looking for a used car for sale in the UAE, make sure to inspect minor details such as chips or windshield cracks as they are a major safety concern.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on car hazards and prevention.
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