CLEAR OUTLOOK
Fully one quarter of all cars on the highway suffer from windshields impaired by pits, chips, and hazing, reports the Automotive Information Council (AIC). In fact, the problem is so widespread that 1% of all vehicles on the highway should have their windshields replaced. Short of that, here are some quick and inexpensive steps you can take to remedy the “windshield blues”:
Begin by cleaning the windshield and checking its condition (an ammonia-based cleaner works well for cutting through road film). You can sometimes buff out light scratches or nicks with jeweler’s rouge, available at glass shops or jewelry stores, or with a do-it-yourself kit available from suppliers like the Eastwood Company. Automotive glass shops will also buff out light scratches for a nominal charge; deeper scratches are likely to be permanent. Minor stone chips and small breaks can sometimes be remedied if confined to the outer layer of glass. These are repaired with resin injected into the flaw to fill and seal the imperfection. Although do-it-yourself kits are available, most recommend having a professional handle this job. Badly cracked or pitted windshields—including those suffering from substantial sand or gravel damage-should be replaced.