Does your cracked or chipped windshield need a repair? Be warned! Attempting to fix your auto-glass at home can pose a serious risk to you and your loved ones.
A broken windshield can pose a serious danger to you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. Seeking professional help for a windshield repair is often your best option and has many advantages over DIY repairs including:
- lower costs
- professionals have the expertise and knowledge to do the job right the first time
- better quality workmanship
- more convenient and quicker repair
4 Mistakes People Make With DIY Windshield Repairs
Your windshield is an essential part of your car’s exterior and any damage to it, as well as lack of maintenance and care, can result in reduced visibility, putting you and your passengers at risk.
While it may sometimes seem like a cheaper and more convenient option, DIY windshield repairs may result in even bigger problems and more stress down the road. Here are four common mistakes that most DIYers make:
1. They Wait Too Long
Most people who use DIY kits wait too long to repair their windshield but remember: the more time you take to fix the windshield chip or crack, the more risk there is of it turning into something even more serious.
When you procrastinate, a small chip can turn into a larger crack, which has serious consequences including:
- improper airbag deployment
- visual obstruction
- no roof support
- higher risk of ejection from the car in case of an accident
2. They Fail To Check Their Insurance Policy
In many cases, insurance will cover the repair or replacement of a windshield. However, that policy can become invalid when you try to fix the damage yourself, which can pose a bigger problem when you end up with a windshield that’s in even worse shape than when you began!
REMEMBER: If your insurance policy does cover the damage to your windshield, there’s really no reason not to use it by seeking professional and expert help!
3. They Use a DIY Kit Without Any Experience
A DIY kit can be very effective when it is used correctly. HOWEVER, using these kits can be much more difficult than many people believe. If you don’t have any automotive repair experience, then you run the risk of further damaging your windshield.
In some cases, you may render it non-repairable, making it necessary to replace it! So, if you are using a DIY kit without any experience, you may end up tripling the cost of your windshield repair.
4. They Choose The Cheapest Parts
A windshield is an important component of the structural integrity of your car, which is why when you replace it, it’s important to use quality auto-glass parts. However, some DIYers tend to go for the cheapest option, which is more often than not cheap, aftermarket parts.
There are many reasons why you should consider OEM parts
- Quality: The OEM part will essentially be the same as the auto glass you’re replacing, providing you with quality, assurance, and peace of mind.
- Easy Selection: Choosing an OEM part reduces the amount of time spent comparing options, prices, and any compatibility concerns you may have.
- Warranty: Some OEM parts may come with a manufacturer’s warranty which can help offset the slightly higher cost associated with genuine OEM parts.
It's important to note that many auto glass specialists do offer both OEM and aftermarket parts, but since they are experts, they can differentiate between aftermarket parts that are quality without the "brand name" and those that present a safety hazard.
Windshield Replacement Options
Call Today
At Diamond Glass, we offer a wide range of affordable and convenient in-shop and mobile auto glass services including windshield repairs and replacements. Whatever your needs, we can get you back on the road quickly and safely in no time! To find out more about our services, contact our Calgary shop today at 403-568-7086 or request a repair quote.
