Windshields are strong, but they’re not invincible, so sometimes they end up getting cracked. If the crack is small, then it’s easy to ignore it if it doesn’t seem like it’s going to get any bigger, and it’s not obscuring your view. However, if you have a cracked windshield, whether the crack is major or minor, you need to head to your Mazda dealer to get it repaired early.
1. The Crack Could Grow
Small cracks may seem pretty stable, and they might not get any bigger for weeks. However, eventually, the small crack in your windshield is going to get a little longer, deeper, and wider. From there, it’ll start branching off like a spider web until the windshield is beyond repair. Once that crack gets too big, the windshield will need to be replaced entirely.
2. The Windshield Won’t Be As Strong
Even the smallest cracks can compromise the structural integrity of your windshield. This means even a small impact that may not have damaged the windshield before could end up cracking it further or even shattering it entirely. The windshield protects you from all kinds of small debris, and it probably takes a lot more hits than you realize during every journey. Getting it fixed so it’s as strong as possible is essential.
3. The Airbags Could Be Compromised
It’s not just your windshield that structural integrity is compromised when it cracks; a damaged windshield can put your airbags into harm’s way. Many airbags hit the windshield when they’re deployed. If they hit a damaged windshield and the windshield chips or shatters, then the airbags could get hit by glass and burst. Even if the airbags aren’t damaged, they may fail to support you effectively if they don’t have the windshield to brace against.
4. The Crack May Decrease Visibility
Not all cracks are severe enough to compromise your visibility, but as we mentioned before, cracks can grow. Yours could get larger at a really inconvenient time and make it difficult to see the road. You may also miss something in the area of the windshield that has a crack in it, even if that crack isn’t very large.
5. The Police Could Pull You Over
As we mentioned above, cracks in the windshield make it harder to see the road. It’s illegal to drive a vehicle with compromised visibility in most states, including Rhode Island. While it’s legal to drive with small cracks that aren’t directly in front of you, the police may still choose to pull you over if they suspect that the crack is impacting your ability to view the road.
Stop by Flood Mazda to have your damaged windshield repaired. While you’re here, ask about all the other services we offer to keep your car in top shape.
Image via Pixabay
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