What if I only have liability coverage?

Congratulations on your new car windshield replacement!   Installing a new windshield is not just about enhancing your vehicle’s aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in your safety and the structural integrity of your car. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain the essential steps to caring for your new windshield, ensuring it stays in mint condition for as long as possible.   Why Does Your Windshield Deserves Top-Notch Care? Your car’s windshield does more than just offer a view of the road.   It provides structural support to your vehicle and protects you from the elements, debris, and accidents. Proper care of your new windshield is crucial not just for maintaining clear visibility but also for ensuring the safety features of your vehicle remain effective. This can also help you avoid future costs associated with premature repairs or replacement.   First Steps After Windshield Replacement Here are some of the immediate post-replacement care tips for your car’s windshield to consider:   Wait Before Driving: After installation, it’s important to wait at least one hour before driving your vehicle. This allows the adhesive used to set properly, ensuring a strong bond and preventing leaks or shifting. Leave a Window Cracked Open: For the first 24 hours after installation, keep a window slightly open to equalize air pressure and prevent stress on the seal. Avoid High-Pressure Car Washes: To protect the integrity of the seal, avoid automatic car washes and high-pressure water on your new windshield for the first few days.   Guidelines for Sparkling Clean Visibility Use the Right Cleaners: Always use ammonia-free glass cleaners, as ammonia can degrade the tint and other specialized coatings on your windshield. Soft Microfiber Cloths: To avoid scratches, clean your windshield with a soft microfiber cloth. Regular Cleaning Schedule: Keeping your windshield clean is not just about visibility; it also prevents debris from accumulating, which can scratch or weaken the glass.   Safeguarding Your Windshield: Preventative Tips Keep Your Distance: When driving, especially on highways, keep a reasonable distance from trucks or vehicles that might kick up debris or stones that could chip the windshield. Use Sunshades: When parked in direct sunlight, protect your car’s new windshield from excessive heat and UV exposure by using sunshades. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes: Do not use hot water to de-ice your windshield in winter. Instead, use de-icer fluids and a proper scraper.   Dealing with Minor Damage Act Quickly on Chips and Cracks: Even small chips can grow into larger cracks if not addressed. Repairing a chip is more cost-effective than replacing a cracked windshield. Use a Windshield Repair Kit: For minor chips, a DIY windshield repair kit can be a quick fix until you get professional help. Consult Professionals: For best results, especially if the damage is in the driver’s line of sight, consult a professional windshield repair service like Auto Glass America.   Extended Advice on Long-Term Care Treat Small Issues Immediately: Small cracks and chips can become big problems if ignored. By addressing these issues quickly, you can extend the life of your windshield and keep your vehicle safe. Monitor Windshield Wiper Performance: Worn-out wipers can cause scratches on the glass surface of your new windshield. Make sure to replace wiper blades at the first sign of wear to avoid any potential damage. Adjust Parking Habits: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a garage or under cover. This reduces exposure to harsh weather conditions and potential hazards like tree sap and bird droppings, which can damage the glass over time.   Seasonal Strategies for Windshield Care Winter Care: In colder climates, ensure that your windshield is properly defrosted before using wipers. This prevents the wiper blades from dragging ice across the glass, which can scratch the windshield. Summer Care: In hot weather, avoid leaving your car under the sun for extended periods. Heat can cause the windshield’s frame to expand and contract, potentially weakening the seal and leading to leaks.   Ensuring Excellence: Routine Professional Upkeep Taking care of your new car windshield is an ongoing commitment that pays off in terms of safety, performance, and aesthetics. By following these guidelines, you can extend the life of your windshield and ensure it continues to protect you and your passengers. Remember, the cost of a new windshield is a small price to pay for safety, but with proper care, you won’t need to pay it any sooner than necessary.   Routine professional inspections can catch issues that might not be obvious to the untrained eye. Regular check-ups at a certified service like Auto Glass can ensure your new windshield maintains optimal performance and safety.   Ready to ensure your windshield stays in top condition? Contact Auto Glass America today for comprehensive car windshield replacement services and expert maintenance tips. Protect your investment and drive safely – every journey deserves a clear view!

Did you know Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) require precise calibration to function optimally? It’s not just a one-time thing either; ADAS needs recalibration after events like windshield replacements or even minor collisions. Ensuring your ADAS is correctly calibrated is crucial for safety, and it’s one of those behind-the-scenes facts that makes modern driving so advanced and secure!   1. Definition of ADAS Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are electronic systems that aid a vehicle’s driver while driving or during parking. These systems range from simple features like parking sensors and adaptive cruise control to more complex functionalities like automatic emergency braking or lane-keeping assistance.   2. Importance of Calibration Calibration ensures that ADAS sensors and cameras are functioning correctly. After repairs, replacements, or any alterations to a vehicle, there might be slight shifts or misalignments in these systems. Calibration fine-tunes them, guaranteeing they work accurately and safely.   3. Types of Calibration There are primarily two methods of ADAS calibration:   Static Calibration: This involves using a specifically designed pattern or target placed at a precise distance from the vehicle. The vehicle remains stationary during the process.   Dynamic Calibration: The vehicle is driven at specific speeds under conditions to calibrate its systems. Some ADAS components might require both types of calibration for utmost accuracy.   4. It’s Not Just After Accidents Many believe that ADAS calibration is necessary only after a collision or accident. While it’s crucial post-accident, calibration might also be required after routine services like windshield replacements, wheel alignments, or suspension repairs. Any service that could potentially disturb the positioning or functioning of ADAS sensors might necessitate a recalibration.   5. Specialized Equipment ADAS calibration isn’t a DIY job. It requires specialized equipment, targets, and tools tailored to each vehicle’s make, model, and system requirements. Dedicated software and continuous updates might also be necessary to keep up with the latest vehicle models and their associated ADAS technologies.   6. Importance of Trained Technicians ADAS calibration is a precise process. Thus, the technicians carrying it out must be adequately trained and certified. They should be familiar not only with the calibration process but also with the specific requirements and nuances of various vehicle brands and models.   7. Safety First ADAS is designed to enhance road safety. However, if not calibrated correctly, these systems can behave unpredictably, leading to potentially dangerous situations. Proper calibration ensures that safety features, like automatic braking or lane departure warnings, work as intended, keeping both the driver and other road users safe.   8. Calibration and Vehicle Modifications Owners who modify their vehicles – changing wheel size, suspension lifts or drops, or altering the vehicle’s body – should be aware that these modifications might affect ADAS functionality. In such cases, recalibration becomes essential to ensure the systems remain accurate and reliable.   9. Regular Checks are Crucial While ADAS calibration might not be a daily or even monthly affair, it’s essential for vehicle owners to undergo regular checks, especially if they suspect any system malfunctions. Given the safety implications of ADAS, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.   10. OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts When replacing parts that are related to ADAS, there’s often a debate between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts and aftermarket alternatives. While aftermarket parts can be more affordable, they might not always meet the exact specifications of OEM components. This discrepancy can potentially affect ADAS calibration and its subsequent functioning.   11. Evolution of ADAS As automotive technology advances so do ADAS. With newer models, we’re seeing more sophisticated systems coming into play. These systems might require new calibration techniques, more advanced tools, and updated training for technicians. It underscores the importance of staying current with evolving automotive technologies.   12. Economic Implications With the increasing adoption of ADAS in modern vehicles, the need for calibration services grows. This burgeoning demand presents a potential economic opportunity for automotive service providers. However, they must invest in the right tools, training, and technologies to capitalize on this trend effectively.   Takeaway As vehicles get smarter and roads get busier, the role of ADAS in ensuring driver safety becomes even more pivotal. Proper calibration, carried out by trained professionals with the right tools, ensures these systems function optimally, making every journey safer for everyone on the road. Whether you’re a vehicle owner or a service provider, understanding the intricacies of ADAS calibration is essential in today’s automotive landscape.

Your vehicle’s windshield is one of its most crucial safety features. Beyond keeping wind, rain, and bugs out, it provides structural integrity to the car, helps keep passengers inside the vehicle in a collision, and supports the proper deployment of airbags. Consequently, when you need to replace your windshield, choosing the right company is essential.   How to choose windshield replacement company Choosing the right service provider ensures that the job is done efficiently, safely, and at a fair price. Here are some tips that you may want to consider when choosing a windshield replacement company:   Research and Reviews: Start with online reviews. Websites like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau can provide insights into other customers’experiences. While no company will have 100% positive reviews, consistent themes in feedback can be telling. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues about their experiences. Personal recommendations often yield trustworthy results.   Experience: A company that has been in the business for several years typically has the expertise to handle various situations. They are also more likely to have faced and overcome potential problems that can arise during windshield replacement.   Quality of Materials: Not all windshields are created equal. A reputable company will use high-quality, OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or equivalent glass. Subpar materials might not provide the same level of safety or might degrade faster.   Trained Technicians: Ensure the technicians are certified and undergo regular training. Organizations such as the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) provide certifications to technicians who meet specific standards.   Post-Installation Instructions: A responsible company will provide you with post-installation care instructions. This can include wait time before driving, how long to leave the windows cracked, and when it is safe to wash the car.   Warranty: A reputable company will stand behind its work. Look for a company that offers a warranty against defects in material and workmanship. Understand the terms and duration of the warranty.   Mobile Service: Sometimes, it is inconvenient or impossible to drive to a shop. Many companies offer mobile services where they come to you – whether it is at your home or workplace – and replace the windshield on the spot.   Insurance Claims: Dealing with insurance claims can be daunting. Choose a company that helps with insurance paperwork and billing. They can act as intermediaries, simplifying the process for you.   Safety Standards: Ensure the company adheres to all federal safety standards. These standards ensure that the windshield provides the necessary protection in case of an accident.   Wait Time: After a windshield installation, there is an advised wait time before you can drive the vehicle. This time allows the adhesive to dry properly, ensuring the windshield is securely in place. Ensure the company you choose provides clear instructions on this.   Communication: Effective communication is a sign of professionalism. The company shouldbe clear about the costs, the time it will take for the job, any potential issues, and aftercare advice.   Pricing: While everyone loves a good deal, the cheapest option is not always the best. Exceptionally low prices might indicate subpar materials or inexperienced technicians. However, this does not mean you need to choose the most expensive option. Obtain several quotes and weigh the cost against other factors mentioned here.   Comprehensive Services: Sometimes, a windshield does not need to be replaced but can be repaired. A company that offers both auto glass repair and replacement services can provide unbiased advice on the best course of action.   Environmentally Responsible: With increasing awareness about environmental issues, it is worth considering a company that practices recycling of old windshields and responsible disposal of materials.   Local vs. Chain: While chain companies might offer competitive prices, local companies often provide personalized services. They might be more flexible in terms of scheduling and supporting them contributes to the local economy.   Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Whether it is about the type of adhesive they use, the time they take, or their previous experiences, a reputable company will be transparent and answer your queries.   Trust Your Gut: After your research and interactions, trust your intuition. If something feels off or too good to be true, it might be wise to look elsewhere.   Takeaway Your vehicle’s windshield plays a pivotal role in ensuring safety on the road. When it needs replacement, the decision should not be taken lightly. Taking the time to choose the right windshield replacement company will not only ensure the quality of the job but also give you peace of mind. Remember, quality work might cost a bit more initially but can save money and potential heartache eventually.