A cracked windshield can be a major safety hazard, and it's important to take the necessary steps to prevent it from spreading. While it's best to take your car to a professional for repair, there are some temporary solutions you can use to keep the crack intact until you can get it fixed. Cleaning the windshield with a window cleaner and paper towels is the first step. Then, you can use clear nail polish or cyanoacrylate glue (often marketed as Superglue) as a low-fidelity solution to fill the chip.
Allow the polish or glue to dry, then place a piece of clear adhesive tape over the area to prevent dirt from entering until you can repair the splinter. The possibility of repairing a cracked windshield depends on the severity, size, and location of the crack. Cracks up to about three inches long can be repaired most of the time, as long as they are not in the driver's line of sight. Chips the size of a 25-cent coin or less can also be repaired without needing to replace the windshield.
If the crack is larger than 3 inches, however, you may need to install a new windshield. In Arizona, auto insurance companies are required by law to replace the windshield for free. It's important to talk to a windshield repair expert, as they have the knowledge, experience, tools, and materials needed to help you temporarily repair your cracked windshield. To prevent cracks from occurring in the first place, make sure you drive carefully and avoid hitting potholes or other objects that could cause damage. By following these steps and talking to an expert, you can stop a long windshield crack from spreading and keep your car safe.
