Repair Your Windshield Before Your Next Road Trip

The Importance of Windshield Maintenance

Seasonal Effects on Your Windshield

If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider the impact of ice, snow, salt, and loose gravel on your vehicle. The radiator can corrode without you even realizing it, minor scratches can turn into rust spots, and your windshield can suffer from the extreme conditions of internal heat and external cold. These factors, among others, affect your vehicle as the seasons change from winter's chill to summer's heat.

Thermal Shock and Windshield Damage

A windshield with a small chip or crack at the end of winter needs to be repaired before thermal shock causes minor damage to become a major crack. Thermal shock can also occur when cold air from the air conditioner hits a windshield that is very hot from summer heat. Replacing a vehicle's windshield can cost hundreds of dollars, and even more for certain models. Once a crack or star-shaped damage (with points radiating out) expands, replacement may be the only option. Therefore, it's essential to get windshield repairs done promptly.

The Cost of Neglect

According to the National Windshield Repair Association, repairing a windshield is significantly cheaper than replacing it. The average cost of a windshield repair is around $60, while replacement can range from $200 to $1,000 depending on the vehicle model and type of glass used (source).

Temporary Fixes

If you can't get to an auto mechanic right away, use a windshield repair patch. Such a patch protects the crack until it can be fixed and does not obstruct your driving view. It's ideal to repair a windshield rather than replace it whenever possible. Windshield repair preserves the factory's safety seal of the windshield to the car body. Since passenger-side airbags deploy off the windshield, maintaining the factory setup is a crucial safety concern. It also helps prevent air and water leaks.

Routine Vehicle Maintenance

Checking Fluids

Another way to take care of your vehicle and avoid performance issues is to check the fluids. Verifying fluids is the most affordable and essential preventive maintenance you can do for your car. Oil should be changed regularly—every 3,000 to 5,000 miles—especially if you carry heavy loads or drive in "stop and go" traffic.

Radiator and Coolant

Flush your radiator and change your engine coolant every two years. The summer months can be particularly hard on a car's cooling system, so inspect your radiator for signs of leaks or corrosion. If you're unsure, have your mechanic check the radiator core to ensure it is not clogged or at risk of failure.

Other Essential Fluids

Check and top off other fluids necessary for your car's performance to the recommended levels. These may include:

• Power steering fluid
• Transmission fluid
• Brake fluid
• Radiator fluid
• Battery water

Also, make sure to top off windshield wiper fluid. Don't wait until you need it to do that!

Conclusion

Taking a few minutes to inspect and maintain your vehicle before a trip can save you from potential issues down the road. From repairing minor windshield damage to checking essential fluids, these small steps can make a big difference in your vehicle's performance and safety.

For more detailed information on vehicle maintenance, you can refer to resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Automotive Service Association.

Interesting Stats

• Windshield Repair vs. Replacement: Repairing a windshield can save up to 75% of the cost compared to replacing it (source).
• Fluid Maintenance: Regular oil changes can extend the life of your engine by up to 75,000 miles (source).
• Seasonal Impact: Vehicles in snowy regions are 20% more likely to experience windshield damage due to road salt and gravel (source).

By taking these preventive measures, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable journey for you and your family.