Your Mazda dealer has seen first-hand the consequences of a cracked or chipped windshield. Find out why you should never ignore this not-so-minor problem.
1. Safety Concerns
A large crack in a windshield can obstruct the driver’s view and create a hazard on the road. This scenario is especially likely if the crack appears in the form of a starburst, wherein several cracks branch out from an impact point. A crack may, in turn, cause light to reflect into the driver’s eyes, impairing the ability to see surroundings even more.
In addition to the potential of causing an accident, a severely cracked windshield may also shatter and make glass fragments fall onto the driver or passengers. These fragments can cause cuts, blood loss, and eye damage.
2. Legality
Several laws are on the books to enhance vehicle safety, from required seatbelts to functional headlights and taillights. Drivers may be pulled over and cited by a police officer for violating these guidelines. Since a damaged windshield reduces the driver’s visibility, it could be a legal infraction worthy of a citation.
If your vehicle must undergo a safety inspection for registration or renewal, a visibly cracked windshield can likewise hinder your chances of passing the inspection.
3. Structural Integrity
Modern windshields are a vital stabilizing force for the entire vehicle. They provide support for the roof and are integral for auto safety. A crack that suddenly appears in the absence of an impact (known as a stress crack) could signal a larger overall problem with the vehicle itself. Mishaps in the manufacturing of a vehicle, for example, can lead to stress cracks along the windshield’s edges.
Keeping a close eye on your windshield’s health can give you valuable insight into your auto’s overall health. One IHS Top Safety Pick you won’t have to worry about in regard to health and stability is the sporty Mazda 3. This stylish vehicle comes equipped with safety-enhanced glass, ultra-durable rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a camera and alert system that gives you and your ride an extra set of eyes.
4. Costly Repairs
A chip or small crack in the windshield may seem inconsequential at first, but if left untreated, this aberration can quickly grow into a significant issue. Both heat and cold can alter the structure of glass, so rising or falling temperatures can play havoc with cracks or chips and cause them to expand. Prolonged exposure to the elements, whether it be constant sunlight or precipitation, can also worsen cracks.
Other factors like windshield wiper pressure and even subtle movements of your vehicle can compound cracks as well. For these reasons, even the smallest chip may become a massive crack. The longer you wait to fix the issue, the greater the chance you will have to shell out plentiful money. In the worst case, the windshield may need to be replaced entirely. Do-it-yourself attempted fixes may only worsen the problem, so qualified professional assistance is best.
Don’t let your minor inconvenience transform into a hazardous and money-draining expense. Contact the expert service team of Flood Mazda for efficient and effective maintenance.
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