With record-high temperatures across the country, spring has arrived much sooner than expected. To make sure their vehicles are prepared for the warmer weather, drivers should follow these tips:
- Get the chips and cracks in the windshield repaired immediately. With fluctuating temperatures straining windshields, a tiny chip could turn into a major problem very quickly. Repairing minor damage now could save drivers from a full windshield replacement later.
- Make sure the windshield repair company follows the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard. Ask if the shop uses original equipment manufactured (OEM) glass as opposed to aftermarket glass. OEM windshields are designed specifically for each car, so they will always fit properly and will work with other factory-installed equipment. Companies like Glass America follow this standard to the letter and are the safer choice when repairing or replacing your windshield.
- Wash the dirt and grime off the car's undercarriage. The same salt that keeps cars from slipping on icy roads can be corrosive if it stays on a vehicle for too long. Be sure to dry the vehicle thoroughly.
- Replace windshield wipers if necessary. Ice, snow and extreme cold can be rough on the wipers' rubber. If the wipers are leaving streaks on your windshield, replace the entire blade, not just the rubber, to increase visibility on the road.
- Watch out for potholes. The transition from winter to spring can create large potholes on the road as the asphalt freezes and thaws. If a vehicle hits one of these potholes, it can wreak havoc on nearly every part of the car from the tires to the windshield. If it is not possible to avoid a pothole, slow down to reduce the amount of damage the impact will have on the vehicle.
- Be wary of puddles. Rain can sometimes disguise a large pothole as a harmless puddle, so it's a good idea to avoid driving through puddles if at all possible.
Everybody wants to enjoy the beautiful sunshine and warm spring breezes after a short but intense winter, so follow these tips and stay safe on the roads.
About Glass America
Glass America is one of the largest independently-owned automobile glass replacement and repair companies in the country. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Chicago, the company operates 73 service centers in 21 states under the names Glass America and Auto Glass Service. They offer a complete line of auto glass repair and replacement services for commercial and passenger vehicles with both drive-in and mobile services. All windshield installations meet the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards (AGRSS), have a one hour safe drive away time, and a national lifetime warranty. In contrast to many companies, Glass America only buys glass from OEM (original equipment manufactured) suppliers to ensure the perfect fit, every time. By: Tara Knott