Simple Solutions to Keep Your Windshield in Good Condition
A damaged windshield can be dangerous. Here are some tips for keeping your windshield in good condition. Good visibility will protect you and your family on the road.
Prevent Condensation from Forming in Your Windshield:
Eliminate condensation quickly
Driving with a fogged windshield is dangerous: you should never drive until it is completely defogged. Rubbing the inside of the windshield with a soft cloth to absorb moisture is a quick fix, but will leave marks that will affect your visibility.
- To remove condensation without wiping off, place your car's ventilation in “cool” mode rather than “recirculation”.
- Then turn on the air conditioning system, put it on the coldest setting and turn the ventilation to maximum. When the air conditioning starts to dry out the air in the car, you can slowly increase the temperature to make your environment more comfortable.
Washer System Does Not Spray:
Unblock the nozzles with a pin
The fine nozzles of the washer system are easily clogged with dirt. First check the windshield washer fluid level in the reservoir and top it up if necessary; then gently insert a pin into each nozzle to clear any blockage. Using the pin inserted in the nozzle, you can also change the direction of the jets towards the windshield, to ensure efficient glass cleaning. Just move the pin to adjust the angle of the nozzle.
The Windshield is Dirty:
Make your own cleaning products
It is not necessary to buy the washer fluid in store. Make your own by mixing 15 milliliters (1 tablespoon) of dish detergent with 300 milliliters (10 ounces) of isopropyl (rubbing alcohol) in a 2-liter container, and top up with water. Fill your car's windshield washer reservoir with this mixture.
- If your windshield is covered in dried bugs, pour a few drops of dish detergent into a bucket of hot water. Spread over the windshield with a sponge and then rub with a mesh bag (an onion bag, for example) to remove stuck insects.
- Wash your windshield with one part white vinegar to three parts water using a microfiber towel; for a streak-free finish, dry the windshield with crumpled newspaper.
Avoid using household window cleaning products. Many of them contain ammonia which can damage the plastic and rubber surrounding car windows.
The Windshield is Scratched:
Polish the ice on your windshield to have good visibility at all times
Using a good glass polish (purchased from an auto supply store) will not only make your windshield sparkle, but it will also remove the fine scratches that contribute to glare and water will bead when it is raining.
Warning:
Chips or cracks in a windshield should never be ignored, as they can spread quickly, threatening your safety. Only small cracks and chips (3.5 cm (1 1/2 in diameter and less) can be repaired by injecting a special resin into the cracked area. Auto supply stores sell kits that allow you to to do it at home Follow the instructions carefully.
If in doubt, don't take a chance: as soon as possible, contact your insurer or a company specializing in windshield repair.
