Windshield replacements used to be straight forward. If a technician had a windshield, sealant and a small accompaniment of tools, you could have your windshield done at home, at work or at the dealer! Within 2 hours your windshield was done!
Since autonomous driving features have been introduced in around 2010, the auto glass Industry has changed dramatically!
With Lane Departure technology, Collision Mitigation, computer calibrations, safe urethane cure times, rain/condensation sensors, insurance processing and the concept mobile service become a lot less attractive as an option. These are some things about auto glass replacement “in your driveway” you should consider:
- Most windshields today are bonded into position using an adhesive known as “Urethane”. Similar to paint or primer, Urethane is a sensitive product, requiring climate controlled conditions to promote a proper “cure” before the vehicle can be safely driven. UV exposure, moisture, humidity and temperature all effect cure times, adhesion and safety!
- Does the technician have the scan tools or targets required to perform a calibration?
- What if the technician doesn’t have the clips, mouldings or other specialized requirements with them to complete the service correctly?
- Often, older cars can have “rust” forming around the pinch weld. Bringing the car to a repair facility enables the technician to deal with such issues in a professional manner.
- A thorough servicing requires supplies like a vacuum, compressor or even a broom just to clean up broken glass.
- A proper windshield installation uses masking tape to help secure the windshield in place as the Urethane fully cures. Many mobile operators, anxious to return the vehicle to its owner as fast as possible, let customers drive away with the masking tape still attached and before the Urethane has fully cured. Would the vehicle be safe in an accident with tape still holding your windshield and mouldings in place? Vehicles on the road with masking tape still holding the windshield in position, is a clear violation of customer safety and professionalism.
