We’ve all been there: you’re driving down the Garden State Parkway or a local backroad when—crack—a tiny pebble kicks up from the truck in front of you and strikes your windshield. At first, it’s just a small spec, hardly noticeable. You might think, "I'll get to that eventually."
However, in the world of vehicle maintenance, what you don't know can actually hurt your wallet—and your safety. There is a lot of "roadside wisdom" floating around regarding windshield damage, but much of it is outdated or flat-out wrong. At A Plus Auto Glass, we believe an informed driver is a safe driver.
To help you protect your vehicle and your family, we’re debunking the top five misconceptions about auto glass repair and setting the record straight with the facts.
Myth 1: A Small Chip Is Only a Cosmetic Issue
The Fact: A chip is a structural weakness, not just an eyesore.
Many drivers assume that if a chip isn't directly in their line of sight, it isn't an emergency. In reality, your windshield provides up to 60% of the structural integrity of your vehicle’s cabin during a rollover accident and supports the proper deployment of airbags.
Every time you hit a pothole or turn up the defrost on a cold morning, that chip is under pressure. Temperature fluctuations cause the glass to expand and contract, which can turn a simple repair into a full-scale crack across the entire glass surface in a matter of seconds.
Myth 2: DIY Repair Kits Are Just as Good as Professional Service
The Fact: Over-the-counter kits often provide a "band-aid" fix that can prevent a proper professional repair later.
It’s tempting to grab a bridge kit from a big-box store. However, professional auto glass repair involves high-grade resins and specialized vacuum tools that remove air from the crack before injecting the bonding agent.
The Risk: If you apply a DIY kit incorrectly and air or dirt is trapped inside, the resin will harden, making it impossible for a professional to go back and do it right.
The Consequence: You’ll likely end up needing a total windshield replacement because the initial DIY attempt "sealed in" the damage.
Myth 3: Any Windshield Damage Means You Need a Total Replacement
The Fact: Many cracks and chips can be safely repaired if caught early.
There is a common fear that a single crack means a bill for hundreds of dollars for a new windshield. This isn't always true. A Plus Auto Glass, our goal is always to save your original factory seal whenever possible.
Typically, we can perform a repair if:
The chip is smaller than a quarter.
The crack is shorter than three inches.
The damage is not at the very edge of the windshield (which compromises the seal).
The damage is not in the driver’s direct line of vision (where a repair might cause a slight distortion).
Myth 4: My Insurance Rates Will Go Up if I File a Claim
The Fact: Most insurance companies encourage glass repairs and often waive the deductible.
Because insurance providers would much rather pay for a small repair than a full windshield replacement, many policies include "full glass coverage." In many cases, having a professional perform a repair costs the policyholder zero dollars out of pocket. Furthermore, because glass damage is usually considered a "no-fault" comprehensive claim, it rarely impacts your monthly premiums.
Myth 5: Auto Glass Repair Will Make the Damage 100% Invisible
The Fact: The primary goal of repair is structural integrity and preventing the spread of the crack.
We pride ourselves on the clarity of our work, but it’s important to manage expectations. A professional repair will usually improve the appearance of a chip by 80% to 95%. However, depending on the age of the chip and whether dirt has entered the crack, a tiny "fleck" or "scar" may remain.
The real value of the service is that it restores the smooth surface of the glass (so your wipers don't tear) and, most importantly, restores the safety of the glass.
Trust the Professionals at A Plus Auto Glass
Your windshield is a safety device, not just a window. When you need expert advice and mobile service that comes to you, don't rely on myths—rely on experience. Our team specializes in high-quality resin injections and precision replacements that meet or exceed OEM standards.
If you’ve noticed a new chip or a spreading crack, don't wait for it to become a bigger problem. Searching for reliable auto glass services near me will lead you to our expert team, ready to get you back on the road safely.
Would you like me to provide a free quote for your specific vehicle or help you determine if your insurance covers mobile repair?
Write a comment ...