If you’ve never replaced your windshield before, you might be unsure what happens when you bring your vehicle in. A professional replacement is quick and safe when handled by trained technicians. Here’s what you can expect step by step.
Preparing Your Vehicle
When you arrive for your appointment, the technician will inspect the damage and confirm that replacement is needed. If you have advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking, the technician will note any cameras or sensors that will require recalibration after installation.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, proper calibration is essential to ensure safety features work correctly after replacement.
Safe Removal of the Old Glass
Technicians start by protecting the interior and exterior of your vehicle with covers. They carefully cut through the adhesive holding the old windshield in place. Using suction cups, the damaged glass is lifted out without damaging the paint or surrounding trim.
Any remaining adhesive is removed, and the bonding surface is cleaned to ensure a secure fit for the new windshield.
Installation of the New Windshield
A fresh bead of high-quality urethane adhesive is applied around the frame. The new windshield is positioned precisely and pressed into place. The adhesive forms a strong bond that restores the structural integrity of your vehicle.
At Speers Auto Glass, our team uses OEM-quality glass and adhesives to meet or exceed manufacturer standards. Learn more about our windshield replacement services here.
Sensor Calibration and Curing Time
If your vehicle has ADAS features, calibration is performed after the new windshield is installed. This process realigns cameras and sensors to ensure accurate function. Skipping this step can cause safety features to fail or malfunction.
Transport Canada has emphasized the importance of recalibrating these systems after windshield replacement. You can read more in their defect investigations.
The adhesive needs time to cure fully before you drive. Most replacements require a 1-hour wait to allow the urethane to set and create a watertight seal.
Post-Installation Care
After your replacement is complete, there are a few important steps you should follow:
- Wait at least one hour before driving.
- Avoid high-pressure car washes for 48 hours.
- Leave a window slightly open to reduce pressure on the seal.
- Be gentle when closing doors for the first day.
Following these tips ensures the adhesive cures properly and your windshield stays secure.
Contact Speers Auto Glass today to schedule your windshield replacement and get back on the road safely.
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