What To Do If Your Car’s Windshield Leaks?

Do you have raindrops dripping onto your car dashboard? Or maybe you hear mysterious wind noises even though all your car doors and windows are closed. The problem here might be a leaky windshield.

But fear not, fellow drivers. This blog will equip you with the knowledge to tackle this leaky windshield so you can enjoy your road trip peacefully.

First, let us understand how to identify the leak in your windshield.

Ways to Identify a Leaky Car Windshield

Have you noticed water seeping into your car but aren’t sure where it’s coming from? Let’s take a look at how to find the source of the leak:

One way is to simulate rainfall by giving your car a thorough shower with a hose. You need to keep all your windows and doors shut. If possible, ask someone to sit inside the car to spot the leaks while you shower your car with the hose. If water finds its way inside your car, you likely have a leak in the windshield area.

Another method involves using soapy water. Apply soapy water to the outer trim area and the windshield edges. Then, turn your car’s blower to defrost and set it to blow air on the windshield. If you see bubbles forming along the trim, that indicates a leak.

If you are unsure whether your windshield is defective after using these methods, you should consider hiring specialized technicians.

The Culprits Behind the Leak

To begin repairing it and prevent future problems, you need to understand what has caused the windshield to leak in the first place. Here are some possible reasons:

• Faulty rubber seals around the windshield that have deteriorated because of age.
• The drain holes that allow water to escape might have been clogged with debris that can cause the water to leak inside the cabin.
• Growth of mold and mildew on the windshield seals or between the windshield glass and seal.
• Rust can eat away at the metal frame surrounding the windshield, creating gaps that allow water to enter.
• The windshield might have been improperly installed.

How to Fix a Leaking Windshield

While professional windshield leak repair is the most recommended course of action, there are some temporary solutions you can try to hold you over until you can get to a technician. However, it’s important to remember these are just stopgaps and won’t provide a long-term fix.

Temporary Fixes

1. Apply Caulk: If you can identify a small crack or gap around the windshield, applying a bead of silicone caulk can temporarily block the leak. Make sure to clean and dry the area thoroughly before applying the caulk and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time.
2. Use Rainproof Sealant Spray: There are commercially available rainproof windshield sealants that can create a hydrophobic barrier on the glass. While not a permanent solution, this can temporarily repel water and improve visibility during light rain.
3. Cover the Leak with Heavy Duty Tape: As a last resort, you can use strong waterproof tape, like duct tape, to temporarily cover a small leak. This should only be used for a short period and should be removed before seeking professional windshield leak repair.

Professional Windshield Repair

While the above methods are effective for a quick and temporary fix, it is always best to seek professional services for several reasons:

• Professional Diagnosis: A trained technician can accurately diagnose the source of the leak and recommend the most appropriate car windshield leak repair solution. DIY fixes might only address the symptom and not the underlying cause.
• Proper Materials and Techniques: Professionals have access to the right materials and techniques to ensure a long-lasting and secure repair. Using improper sealants or techniques during a DIY attempt could worsen the leak or damage the windshield.
• Safety Considerations: A compromised windshield can be a safety hazard. Professionals can ensure the windshield repair is done correctly to maintain the structural integrity of the windshield.

Remember, a temporary fix should only be used until you get a qualified technician as soon as possible. Don’t wait until a small leak turns into a major problem.

Professional Repair Options

In most cases, seeking help from a trained glass technician is the smarter move. DIY solutions can sometimes backfire, worsening the leak or damaging the windshield itself. Trained professionals have the expertise and tools to diagnose the problem accurately and use the right materials for a long-lasting fix.

Once the professionals have checked the issue, depending on the damage, they will tell you if the leak can be repaired. If there’s more damage, they might advise a replacement.

If the damage is on the down-low, they will reseal the windshield. In most cases, windshields are sealed with a combination of a gasket and liquid sealant.

Here’s what our professional typically does to reseal a windshield:

1. First, technicians carefully remove any trim pieces around the windshield. This allows them to access the area where the leak is coming from.
2. Once the area is open, they locate the exact source of the leak.
3. Then they clean the area around the leak. This ensures a strong bond when the new sealant is applied.
4. A fresh layer of liquid sealant is then applied directly over the leak, plugging it up. Professional resealing uses a near-invisible sealant that maintains the original look of your windshield.
5. After the sealant has had some time to set, the technician tests the windscreen leak repair to confirm the leak is sealed shut.
6. The sealant needs time to dry completely for a long-lasting fix.
7. Finally, the technician carefully puts everything back in place.

If a reseal isn’t possible, your NuVision professional will discuss alternative solutions like replacing the rubber gasket or the entire windshield.

Compared to the temporary solutions listed above, professional resealing creates a permanent and secure bond that won’t fail. It provides a long-lasting solution that won’t require constant upkeep.

Let NuVision Fix Your Windshield

A leaky windshield is an inconvenience, but it doesn’t have to be a major setback. By testing the leak and seeking professional help when needed, you can enjoy a stress-free driving experience. Remember that it’s always better to get professional help when it comes to your car as DIY solutions will only prove to be a temporary fix.

NuVision Auto Glass offers same-day windshield repair and replacement services. If you are worried about the windshield repair cost, we provide windshield replacements with hassle-free claims. We also provide affordable easy financing options if you don’t have insurance.

We strive to fix your windshield with timely, cost-effective, and high-quality services. You can get a quote instantly by visiting our website for all your windshield repair and replacement needs. Request an appointment online or call 855-213-0100 to get started.