Abra Auto Glass Blog

1. Your car will be prepped to ensure the interior and exterior are protected against debris that could cause damage during the replacement process.
   
2. Proper molding removal and replacement is essential for a safe leak proof seal when the new windshield is placed.  Specialty tools are used to remove the old windshield.
   
3. Attention to detail is needed when removing the old glass.
   
4. Proper priming is needed before place the new windshield.
   
5. Manufacturer’s instructions need to be followed to set the new windshield.
   
6. Some windshields today require a ADAS recalibration due to technology.

 
It is not recommended auto glass replacement be done by anyone that is not a certified professional with experience in auto glass replacement.

Your windshield sees a lot of worlds, from debris to weather its no small job getting from point A to point B. A cracked windshield should be dealt with as soon as the issue is noticed. A broken windshield is an immediate safety concern as there is no predictability in expansion of the broken glass. Depending on the auto insurance policy selected by you, don’t fret your windshield may be covered.
 
3 signs you need a new windshield:

1. The crack is larger than a fifty cent piece.
   
2. The windshield chip or crack went halfway through the windshield in depth.
   
3. The windshield chip/crack extends touching the outside edge of the windshield.

 
An auto glass professional can assist in deciding on replacement or repair of your windshield.
 
**Buyer beware of scams associated with auto glass professionals that claim they do “free” or “discounted” windshield replacement.

Replacing auto glass in the frigid Minnesota and Wisconsin winters can warrant extended replacement or repair turn around in labor times. Mobile auto glass service should not be done on-site below 20 degrees Fahrenheit unless in a heated area (pole building, auto glass shop or garage). Handling your repairs and replacement prior to weather changing is so important, convenience is key. 
 
A windshield must be preheated before adding repair resin in cold weather conditions. It is critical to the installation and repair process. Temperature levels are handled easily in a controlled environment. All moisture must be regulated and removed prior to glass installation. Any trapped moisture may cause damage in the future. 

Cold weather conditions can impact your auto glass negatively in Minnesota and Wisconsin if there is an existing crack or chip that may not have been noticed. Be sure to check your windshield for any areas of concern prior to the first cold front. 

• Handle any cracks or chips immediately. 
• Avoid sudden temperature changes if you notice cracks or chips as areas of concern can expand or grow quickly.
• Replace wiper blades if metal is exposed. Metal exposure on wiper blades leaves potential for your vehicle glass to be scratched. 
• Keep washer fluid full with fluid formulated for Minnesota and Wisconsin winter weather conditions. If summer fluids are left in the reservoir, it can cause damage to the pump and reservoir. A deicing solution can be used if summer fluid is left in the reservoir. If washer fluids left over from summer do not freeze in the reservoir it has potential to freeze to the windshield when it is sprayed impairing the drivers vision. 
• Keep your auto glass clean. It will make it easier to recognize damage during any weather condition easier. 
• Salt should be avoided because it can cause excessive debris buildup inside a chip, diminishing its ability to be filled properly. 

If your vehicle contains Advanced Driver Assistance Safety (ADAS) Systems it is critical to know when calibration of the technology is needed for proper safety operations of your vehicle. These are the 9 most common instances a calibration should be performed.

FOLLOWING: 
1. Replacement of the vehicles:

• Engine Control Module (ECM)
  
• Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
  
• Engine Control Unit (ECU). 
  

2. Collision
3. Airbag deployment
4. Windshield replacement
5. Repair of the suspension
6. Frontend alignments
7. Alterations to tires
8. Camera replacement
9. Any displayed an alterations to displayed code

Manufacturers may specify other critical instances calibrations should be performed. Please check with the manufacturer of your vehicle.