Preventive Tips to Keep Your Windshield Clear and Crack-Free

Your windshield plays a huge role in keeping you safe while driving. It helps you see the road clearly and protects you from the wind, rain, dust, and debris. A small crack might not seem like a big deal, but if left alone, it can spread and become costly—or even dangerous. That’s why taking care of your windshield should be part of your regular car care routine. Here are four simple but smart tips to keep your windshield in great shape.

This may sound odd, but slamming your car doors can cause damage over time. When you shut the doors hard, the pressure inside your car shifts quickly. That pressure can make tiny chips or cracks in your windshield worse. Over time, even a small chip can turn into a large crack. Get into the habit of closing your doors gently. It’s a small change that helps in the long run.

Park in the Shade When You Can

Heat and direct sunlight can be rough on your windshield. When the glass gets too hot, it expands—and if there’s even a small chip, it may start to crack. Then when it cools off again at night or when it rains, it contracts. This back-and-forth motion can stress the glass. Try parking in a garage or under trees when possible, or use a windshield sunshade to help block the heat.

Glass doesn’t like sudden changes in temperature. Imagine pouring boiling water on a frozen windshield—crack! The same thing can happen when you blast hot air onto a cold windshield or pour hot water on it to remove frost. Instead, use your car’s defrost setting and let the temperature rise slowly. If you're in a rush, use a plastic ice scraper or spray a safe, store-bought de-icer instead.

Replace Wiper Blades Often

Wiper blades are your windshield’s first defense against rain and debris. But over time, the rubber breaks down and gets rough. If you hear them squeak or notice streaks on the glass, it’s time to replace them. Old wipers can scratch the glass, and scratches weaken it. Changing them every 6–12 months helps keep your windshield clear and safe, especially during rainy or snowy seasons.

Common Causes of Windshield Damage and How to Prevent Them

A cracked or chipped windshield is not only a safety hazard—it’s also a costly inconvenience. Many drivers don’t realize how easily their windshield can be damaged or how common the causes are. Knowing what to watch out for can help you take steps to protect your vehicle. In this article, we’ll go over four common causes of windshield damage and share simple tips to help you prevent it.

One of the most common causes of windshield damage is small rocks or debris kicked up by other vehicles on the road. This usually happens when driving on highways or near construction zones where loose gravel is common. Even a tiny stone can hit your windshield with enough force to chip or crack the glass.

Prevention Tip: Keep a safe distance from trucks and other vehicles, especially those carrying loose material. If possible, avoid unpaved or gravel roads. Using a protective film on your windshield can also add an extra layer of defense.

Sudden Temperature Changes

Glass expands and contracts with changes in temperature. Rapid shifts—like blasting the defroster on a cold morning or pouring hot water on an icy windshield—can put stress on the glass and lead to cracks.

Prevention Tip: Try to warm your car slowly. Use the defroster on a low setting and allow the temperature to rise gradually. During hot days, park in the shade or use a sunshade to keep the interior cooler and prevent stress cracks.

Sometimes, damage doesn’t come from outside but from a windshield that’s already weakened. If your windshield wasn’t properly installed or is simply too old, it's more likely to crack or break—even from a small impact.

Prevention Tip: Always use a trusted professional for windshield installation. If your windshield has tiny cracks or pits that are spreading, it’s best to get it inspected and replaced before it worsens.

Hail and Severe Weather

Heavy storms, especially those with hail, can cause serious windshield damage in just a few minutes. Even a small piece of hail falling at high speed can chip or shatter the glass. High winds can also blow debris that hits your car.

Prevention Tip: Check the weather before parking outdoors. If hail is forecasted, try to keep your vehicle in a garage or under a covered area. A car cover can help reduce the impact of hail and flying debris in a storm.