Because the windshield on your vehicle is made of glass, it is one part of your vehicle that is highly susceptible to getting damaged. Whether your vehicle was outside in a hailstorm, a rock flew up and hit it as you were driving, or you were in a car accident, there are some things you should know about getting it fixed.
Here are the answers to three frequently asked questions when it comes to windshield repair.
1. How Do I Know When to Repair My Windshield or Replace It?
If the damage to your windshield is not too severe, you may be able to get by with simply getting it repaired. However, some types of damage, such as chips or cracks, can get worse over time, so it might be in your best interest to get your windshield replaced.
There are other times you should get it replaced as well. For instance, if the damage is located directly in your line of vision, or both the inner and outer layer of glass on your windshield are damaged. If you still don't know whether or not you should get your windshield repaired or replaced, windshield services in Indiana can help you make the best decision.
2. What Is the Difference Between OEM and OEE?
When you're getting your windshield replaced, you will often have a choice of choosing between two types of auto glass. The first is OEM, which stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. The other type of auto glass is called OEE, which means Original Equipment Equivalent.
If you have the original windshield that your vehicle was made with, the glass is OEM. If your windshield was made by a different manufacturer but contains the same standards of auto glass, it is OEE. While OEE glass is less expensive, it might not be as durable as OEM.
3. How Can I Prevent Further Damage to My Windshield?
If your windshield has a crack or chip, there are things that can cause this type of damage to become worse. One factor that causes chips and cracks to get bigger or become longer is extreme temperatures.
If you live in an area that gets very hot during the day and then very cool at night, the drastic change in temperature can cause further damage. To prevent this, always keep your car in the garage or in a shaded area during the day. You should also avoid going through the car wash and never slam your doors shut.