5 Main Reasons for Windshield Chip Repair Failure

It is frustrating when your happiness of getting that pesky windshield crack fixed is short-lived. Either the damage is still visible or spreading.

Windshield chip repairs are easy to deal with. But sometimes, even after fixing your windshield damage, things don’t go as planned. Windshield chip repair failure is a common problem faced by car owners.

In this blog, we will learn about the common reasons for windshield chip repair failure, how to identify the signs, and when you need to go in for a complete windshield replacement.

Windshield Chip Repair Failure- Common Causes

Here are the 5 top reasons for your windshield repair failure.

1. Incorrect Repair Methods

This is one of the most important reasons for windshield chip repair failure. The auto glass repair expert should analyze the damage and repair the windshield using appropriate techniques.

For instance, a strong resin should be used to fill the chip in the center of the windshield, and a softer one for the chips on the windshield’s edge.

If the technician uses the wrong technique or tool to repair the damage, the resin might not bind properly, leading to a windshield chip repair failure.

2. Poor Weather

Adverse weather can cause a failed windshield repair.
Technicians fix windshield repairs by injecting resin into the impacted area. They apply pressure through a vacuum, forcing the resin to flow into the chip or crack and fill it.
In a successful windshield repair, the resin must cure. However, adverse weather like rain, intense heat, snow, or humidity might make it more difficult. This causes windshield chip repair failure and makes the windshield prone to more damage. The resin can fall out, which can worsen the damage.

3. Dirty Windshield

This is one of the most common causes of windscreen chip repair failure. Your technician might forget to clean your windshield before repair. When dirt, dust, and debris settle into the damage, these can obstruct the adhesive and resin from properly curing. This ultimately leads to an unsuccessful windshield repair.

The more dust on the windshield, the fewer the chances of a successful repair.

4. Complex Damage

If there are multiple damages, the chip is large, or it is in a challenging place like the windshield edge, the windshield repair might fail. Repairs don’t suffice for small cracks extending from the windshield center and bull’ s-eye cracks.

Skilled auto glass technicians will analyze the damage and explain the potential disadvantages of repairing the complex damage.
If you still choose to repair complex damage, it can cause windscreen chip repair failure.

5. Delaying Windshield Repair

This is one of the obvious reasons for windshield chip repair failure. Delaying the repair of a small crack or chip can worsen it, making it harder to rectify.

But you must identify the signs of windshield chip repair failure. How should you go about it?

Signs of a Failed Windshield Chip Repair

Here are some clear signs that help you recognize windshield repair failure.

1. Cracks or Chips that Spread

If you find the damage worsening after repair, it is a sign that the resin did not fill in the chip completely.

2. Blurry or Distorted Area

The damage becomes invisible after repair, and you have a clear line of sight. However, if you still find the area of damage blurred, discoloured, or obstructing your view, understand that windshield repair has failed.

This happens when technicians do not apply the resin properly or leave behind air bubbles during the process.

3. Air Bubbles

Air bubbles weaken the bond between the resin and the windshield, which can cause windshield repair failure.

4. Cracking Sounds

You can be sure that your windshield repair is a failure when you hear weird noises from the damaged area. The cracking and popping sounds are more pronounced during temperature changes and when the vehicle moves over bumps.

This sign shows that the windshield repair is failing and the glass is under stress.

5. Moisture and Dirt

If you see cloudy spots, water, or dirt trapped inside the chip, you conclude that the windshield repair failed. Moisture or dirt prevents the resin from filling the damage properly.

If you witness these signs, you must contact a well-trained auto glass technician who can suggest remedial measures. If the extent of damage is large or complex, the technician might recommend windshield replacement. But when should you consider windshield replacement?

When to Consider a Full Windshield Replacement?

Here are the scenarios when windshield replacement is the safest option.

• For cracks longer than three inches or chips larger than a quarter
• Windshield chip repair failure
• Damages in the driver’s line of sight or windshield edge
• More than one chip or crack
• If the damage has compromised safety features, such as ADAS components

Driving with a damaged windshield is dangerous. So, it is prudent to act fast to ensure your safety.

Conclusion

Windshield repair is an economical method to restore your damaged windshield. However, windshield chip repair failures can happen because of several factors. Thus, you must detect the signs of windshield repair failure early to prevent further damage. If the damage is too severe you shall have to replace the windshield.

If you are looking for high-quality, guaranteed windshield repair or replacement in Arizona, Colorado, and South Carolina, Nuvision Auto Glass is the right choice. Contact the fastest-growing auto glass solution company for a free quote today. Enjoy premium auto glass solutions with a lifetime warranty.