windshield replacement

my so got mad at his car when it wouldn't start that he punched his
windshield. it is cracked so much that it needs to be replaced. if i get
one at a junk yard what else do I need (like weatherstripping) and how do
I replace it without breaking it? Is it easy enough to do myself or do I
need a pro to do it?

 

I think it would be best to get it done professionally to help ensure that
it doesn't leak water when it rains. The ECU is right under the dash on the
passenger side and it could be easily damaged by a leaking windshield. Most
auto glass shops, at least the good ones, will provide a guarantee against
leaks.

Eric

 

I agree with the other poster. Windshields are held in place by a
special adhesive that has particular properties necessary for the
safety of the occupants of the vehicle. I must be applied correctly in
a thick layer that both cushions and securely holds the windshield in
place and then cured properly. The weatherstripping and other stuff is
not so critical, but will look better and be guaranteed if appled by a
pro.

By coincidence, Safelite is coming out tomorrow to replace the
windshield on my van. They have locations all over. They have a
website and you can make initial contact with a service rep through
the website. I don't remember the URL, but you should be able to find
it with Google or Anywho.com.

If you have comprehensive insurance, in the US it will probably pay
for treplacement. Just tell them, "my windshield is broken." The
deductible on the comprehensive part of your policy may be much lower
than the collision deductable. Mine is $50 US.

Elliot Richmond
PhD Candidate in Science Education
UT Austin

 

As the others said, get a pro.

Take some relief that the windshield is usually the cheapest window in a car
to replace.

Pagan

 

I posted about replacing a hatch glass and went with a pro and am glad I
did. Though none of the steps is particularly difficult individually, it's
the combination of materials, technique, and general "set up" that give the
pros a huge advantage, especially when you consider the cost of your time.
I watched the process closely and it was in a nut shell: scraping off the
old adhesive, applying a black adhesive from a caulk gun, and using a big
suction cup for placement and setting. There was just enough stuff getting
used on the side that would have made it a royal pain in the ass to get, and
how about procurement and transport of the glass? Another PITA. Let the
pros do it and exercise insurance if you must. I did and regret it a bit, I
soon got an adjustment of my premium of +3 USD! Not terribly much but in
hindsight I would have prolly ponied up the extra $400 above my deductible
and kept a pristine insurance record. BTW, I did all my trim, wiper motor,
spoiler removal/reinstallation myself, no way would the tech have gotten all
that stuff off without yanking something wrong opposed to a guy with a
service manual. I am pretty particular and am 100% satisfied with the
resolution (except maybe insurance!)

 

I'm with the others - hire it done. In the old days when windshields were
held in place by a window gasket it was a fairly simple job - not any more.
(I also don't do my own window tinting. Sometimes the secret to keeping cars
affordable is knowing what to pay others to do.)

Mike

 

I agree with everyone too. Yeah, have a professional do the work, just
make sure you call around so you get the best deal around.

Good luck!

 

A VERY important point here: Pick a shop that is willing to let you inspect
the pinchweld for those inevitable nicks in the paint that result from the
removal procedure.

Touch them up with the same primer they use on a fresh pinchweld, or with
touchup paint or nail polish.

Failure to do this will cause rusting in a couple of years.

If the shop will not let you inspect the pinchweld, WALK AWAY.

 

I agree.
I've seen this job and trust me, you don't want it. Let the pro do it, no
matter what it costs. Note however that a pro will not put in a "used"
windshield for you. If you don't have insurance to cover the job, let the
guy know it. They'll cut you a deal that'll save you at least $100
possibly more.