When a chip or crack appears on your windshield or auto glass, the decision to repair or replace isn’t always straightforward. But it doesn’t have to be confusing either.
At WindshieldsForYou, we’ve simplified the process for drivers in Charlotte, NC with a system that’s easy to follow—even if you’re not a car expert. In this 3-minute guide, we’ll walk you through how to understand your damage and how we help you take the next step without hassle.
Step 1: Identify the Glass Part
Start by figuring out which part of your auto glass is damaged. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Windshield – Front glass, often laminated for strength and crash support.
- Side Windows – Tempered glass, designed to shatter into small pieces for safety.
- Rear Glass – Also tempered and often includes defrost lines.
- Sunroof / Moonroof – Typically tempered and more prone to cracks from above.
Identifying the glass type tells us how it’s constructed and what repair or replacement options are viable.
Step 2: Tell Us the Year, Make, and Model
The specific glass size, mounting method, and presence of sensors (like rain or ADAS cameras) depend on your vehicle’s year, make, and model. What works for a 2014 Toyota Camry may not work for a 2021 Ford F-150.
Providing this info early helps us:
- Match OEM specifications
- Verify availability of advanced sensors or tinting
- Prepare the right part before dispatching a technician
This step prevents unnecessary delays and ensures we bring the correct equipment for repair or replacement.
Step 3: We Handle the Rest
Once you’ve shared the part and vehicle info, our team evaluates the next best action: repair or replace.
Here’s how we make that decision:
- Repair if the chip or crack is:
- Smaller than a dollar bill
- Not in the driver’s direct line of sight
- Not near the edge of the glass
- Free from contaminants like moisture or dirt
- Replace if the damage is:
- Larger or spreading
- Impacting structural integrity
- Interfering with camera-based driver assistance systems
- In a location where repair might fail or impair visibility
We make these determinations using industry benchmarks and safety standards—not upselling.
Why This Process Works
We designed this system to remove the pressure, guesswork, and over-explaining that many drivers dread. There’s no need to book an appointment without knowing what you’re dealing with. No overwhelming forms or unnecessary upcharges. Just:
- A visual ID of the glass part
- A quick message with your car’s year, make, and model
- And we follow up with next steps—fast
From there, we’ll recommend repair if it’s the best option or prepare for a safe, clean replacement if needed. Either way, we guide the process, and you stay informed without having to do the legwork.