What You Need to Know About Fixing a Damaged Back Windshield

Many cracks or dings in a front windshield are repairable if you act promptly after the initial damage. This saves you the expense of having to replace the entire windshield and you're able to maintain the windshield's original seal.

However, the same guideline doesn't apply to back glass. In most situations, damaged back glass should be replaced, not repaired. To understand this recommendation, look at the materials that comprise the back windshield and how they differ from those on the front windshield.

The back windshield consists of tempered glass that's more likely to shatter in the event of an accident or incident. Tempered glass is strong enough to add structural integrity to the vehicle while adding minimal weight to the vehicle's overall poundage. 

Front windshields have laminated glass that's less likely to shatter if an accident occurs. This prevents the driver or front passenger from being covered in deadly glass in an auto accident.

Since the back windshield is made up of shatter-friendly tempered glass, you can't usually repair it. Instead, you'll want to replace the entire back windshield.

Ideally, you should replace your damaged back windshield as soon as you can. If it has a crack or ding, the structural integrity of the windshield is compromised and it's more likely to break completely if you get into a minor accident or if something hits it from the interior of your vehicle.

Cracks that allow your back windshield to shift and change shape are notably risky and call for prompt repair. An ill-fitting windshield won't give your vehicle the necessary support.

Fortunately, the costs of replacing a back windshield are typically relatively affordable. It does cost more to replace the back windshield on luxury vehicles, relatively new vehicles, or vehicles that have a lot of special features (such as automated shades that block sunlight when the vehicle is parked or a retractable back windshield). 

If you're on a budget, you can decrease the replacement costs by opting for an aftermarket windshield not specifically designed for your car. This windshield is new, but it isn't specifically designed for your automobile. It will likely differ slightly in appearance and design from your original back windshield. Talk to your auto glass specialist to determine if an aftermarket windshield is suitable for your vehicle.

You can also use your auto insurance to lower the costs of your new back windshield. Many insurance policies cover windshield replacement under the comprehensive portion of your auto policy. 

Don't worry about having to be without your vehicle for an extended period while the back windshield is replaced. Most likely, you can find an auto glass repair company that can come to your home or place of business and complete the work on-site while you work or go about your business. If you do have to drop your vehicle off at the auto glass repair company, the process will likely only take a few hours.

Does your vehicle have glass damage that needs repair or replacement? Contact Affiliated Auto Glass to explore your options and request a quote.