It’s easy to dismiss a small chip or crack as “just cosmetic,” but ignoring even minor auto glass damage can have serious consequences. From visibility hazards to structural weaknesses, the risks of waiting too long to act can cost you far more than a quick repair.
Why Small Chips Become Big Cracks
A tiny stone chip might seem harmless, but it weakens the integrity of your windshield. Over time, vibrations from driving, road impacts, and temperature changes can cause the chip to spread into a long crack. According to the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), many drivers underestimate how quickly cracks can grow—sometimes expanding several inches overnight.
Once a crack reaches the edge of the windshield, it compromises the bond between the glass and the frame, making full replacement inevitable.
Risks to Occupant Safety
Your windshield provides up to 30% of your vehicle’s structural strength in a rollover. Cracked or weakened glass can fail during a collision, increasing the risk of ejection and reducing airbag effectiveness. The Insurance Bureau of Canada warns that unrepaired damage can lead to unexpected shattering, especially in cold weather or after minor impacts. You can read more about these safety considerations at IBC’s auto insurance resources.
Side and rear windows, if damaged, also become an easy target for break-ins and can leave you exposed to weather hazards.
Financial Costs of Delay
Putting off repairs usually means you’ll pay more later. A small chip can often be fixed quickly and affordably. But once the damage grows beyond repair limits—generally about 6 inches long—a full replacement is the only safe option. Insurance companies may cover repair at no cost to you, but if you wait and the windshield fails, you could be responsible for your deductible.
Replacing an entire windshield or side window takes more time and money than simple repairs, so acting early protects both your budget and your safety.
Legal and Inspection Issues
Most provinces require that your windshield be free from cracks in the driver’s field of view. Damage that interferes with your visibility can result in fines or failed inspections. The CAA also warns that in some cases, driving with compromised glass can be considered negligence if an accident occurs.
Even small chips can refract light and create glare, making nighttime driving dangerous and uncomfortable.
What to Do Now
If you spot damage on your windshield or any other vehicle glass:
- Photograph it to track any spreading.
- Park in the shade to avoid rapid heating and cooling.
- Avoid washing the glass with hot water or using the defroster on high.
- Schedule a professional inspection as soon as possible.
Speers Auto Glass offers comprehensive windshield repair services, windshield replacement, and emergency mobile repairs to restore your vehicle safely.
Contact Speers Auto Glass today to schedule your assessment and avoid bigger problems down the road.
Related Posts in This Series
- Is It Safe to Drive with a Cracked or Broken Window?
- How Fast Can a Crack Spread in Your Windshield?
- Types of Windshield Cracks and Chips Explained