Common Causes of Auto Glass Damage and How to Avoid Them

Your car’s glass is an important component of your vehicle that provides visibility, protection, and structural integrity. Because of this, you want ideally want your glass to be strong and uncompromised by damage. But, unlike the body of your car, your auto glass is particularly vulnerable to problematic damage from road hazards. Understanding the most common causes of auto glass damage and learning how to prevent it can save you time and money while maximizing your safety on the road. 

Common Auto Glass Hazards

Road Debris and Rocks: 

We’ve all been driving on the road when a surrounding car kicks up a rock and – crack! – it hits our windshield. In fact, one of the most common causes of auto glass damage is road debris. Even tiny flying objects can cause small chips or cracks in your windshield or windows, which can lead to more significant damage if left untreated. To reduce the risk of damage from road debris you should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles. Also, avoid driving behind large trucks and construction vehicles for extended periods of time, as they are more likely to kick up debris.

Extreme Temperatures:

Sudden changes in temperature, such as pouring hot water on a frozen windshield or blasting the air conditioning on a hot day, can cause cracks in the glass due to the stress placed on it. To avoid extreme temperature differences, gradually warm up or cool down your vehicle’s interior. Also, if you already have a small chip or crack in your windshield, beware that temperature changes like extreme heat can cause an untreated crack to grow and spread, creating a much larger problem.

Hailstorms: 

Hailstorms can cause severe damage to car windows. Hail falls in various sizes and speeds and when it hits your car it can cause the glass to crack or shatter completely. Whenever possible, park your car in a garage or undercover to protect it from hail and if you find yourself caught in a hailstorm while driving, find a safe place to pull over, ideally under cover, until the storm passes.

Vandalism and Theft: 

Unfortunately, auto glass is particularly vulnerable to car vandalism and theft attempts because one of the quickest ways into a car is to shatter the windows. To minimize risk, park your car in well-lit areas, close to buildings, or under surveillance cameras to deter potential vandals or thieves. Also, avoid leaving valuables inside your vehicle, as they might attract unwanted attention.