Tag Archives: Auto glass repair

Damaged Windshield San Diego

Every car eventually will suffer a cracked, chipped, or damaged windshield. Depending on the severity, it isn’t safe to drive. If the damage is in the line of sight, it will be a distraction for the driver putting him and other passengers in danger. At 7 Stars Auto Glass San Diego, we will beat any price and offer a warranty. We also have a mobile repair option where we come to you.

You can schedule an appointment at your convenience.

A trained technician will evaluate the damage and do the repairs. The main things is to evaluate whether a repair can be done or a full windshield replacement. Dings and chips can be filled usually. If cracks are caught soon enough, they may be repaired instead of a full windshield replacement. Therefore, it is important even to have the smallest chip repairs promptly before it turns into a large crack. This can happen at any time but especially if you go over a bump.

At the shop or on the road

For your convenience, you can choose to drop your car off at our shop or have us come to you at your home or office. Mobile repair is convenient as you can go on about your day while we are working to make your vehicle safe. Either way, we will give you the best service.

No matter if it’s a chip or crack, a windshield repair or a full windshield replacement, we at 7 Stars Auto Glass in San Diego will give you the best advice on what to do next.

At 7 Star Auto Glass San Diego, we are your source for high quality auto glass in San Diego, California. We have been in the auto glass repair and windshield replacement business for over 20 years. We provide quality windshield repair and auto glass replacement services wherever you are and whenever you need it. We carry a large inventory of windshields and windows. We use only original parts. To date, we remain one of the largest independent retail glass shops in the United States. We service all types of vehicles including domestic and foreign as well as semis, trucks and RVs. Our reputation is the highest not just for windshield service but also for any other types of glass needs including power windows, mirrors, sun roofs, and side glass. Other services include in-house tinting at discounted prices!

Auto Glass Damage

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Not every car glass repair is done the same. Why? Because not all car glass damages are the same. Every damage is unique. They come in different shapes and sizes. Some are more dangerous than others. Some barely affect the glass. So, these damages must not always be treated the same.

Types of Auto Glass Damages

There are many types of windshield damages, including chips, cracks, scratches, and more. These damages dictate whether you need a repair or a replacement. A few damages to consider:

If the damage is within the driver’s line of vision
Is larger than a quarter
There are multiple chips in the windshield
The damage extends through more than one layer of the windshield
The inside layer of the windshield is chipped or cracked
If the spot of the damage is crushed
Depending on the above damages, an auto glass technician will recommend the best repair or replacement option for you.

Damage in Respect to the Driver’s Line of Vision

When the driver is in the car, does the damage affect his driving? For instance, is the chip or crack in the driver’s line of sight? If so, then a windshield repair is probably out of the question. A car glass repair, even if the damage is small, will still leave behind a mark that will blur the driver’s visibility. In that case, a windshield replacement is the only option possible. It will ensure that the entire glass is removed and a new one installed to guarantee that the driver can see the road without anything in the way.

The Size of the Damage

The size of the damage should also be taken into consideration. If the damage is bigger than a dollar bill, then car glass replacement is necessary. A damage that big makes a car glass repair too difficult. On the other hand, if the damage is smaller or is as big as a dollar bill, things change.

Location of the Damage

Another way to see if the damaged windshield needs a repaired or a replacement is to figure out the location of the damage. Other than the chip or crack being in the line of sight of the driver, if the damage is in the corner of the windshield, that is an indication that the entire glass needs a replacement. The reason for this is the fact that a damage in the corner can cause the windshield to break or shatter. Thus, a windshield repair for this issue is not an option.

These factors shape the type of car glass repair you will need. A car glass repair is always as unique as the damage. Knowing what kind of damage your car glass has will help you determine how the repair will be done. Call Car Glass Repair El Cajon for your repair or replacement.

What To Do After Windshield Replacement

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After you get a new windshield installed, you want it to perform well. Here are tips what to do and what not to do in the days following a windshield replacement.

Inspect the Install

Closely examine the installation. Look for gaps in the seal around your windshield. Make sure the gasket is correctly installed. Take your car for a test drive to listen for any air noise around the install.

Get Your Warranty Paperwork

Our technicians will provide you a receipt when the installation is complete. Warranty information will be included.

Take it easy

The first 24 hours is crucial for the success of your installation. Auto glass installation is fragile during this period. Try not to slam your doors. It’s a good idea to crack your door windows about 1/4 inch if you can to avoid pressure build-up. The first 24 hours is a good time for the gasket to seat and seal.

Avoid the Car Wash

Some car washes use cleaners or cleaning agents on the car during the first 3 days and those can damage the windshield seal. If the installers used a special tape to preserve the installation, do not remove for 24 hours. However, your installers probably told you that.

Check your Driving Route

As an added precaution, check your route to and from your office or other routes. Chances are, you windshield got damaged because of a random rock or road debris. If this is the case, you may want to take a different route if possible, avoiding construction areas or neighborhoods with road debris.

The first 24 hours might be the most important. By being careful during that time, your windshield will perform like new.

Need a new windshield. Let 7 Stars Auto Glass in San Diego install your new windshield. Our certified technicians will instruct you and the dos and don’ts for the first 24 hours. Call today.

Car Glass San Diego

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Maintaining your car glass San Diego is something you should do regularly. This way, you can ensure your car is in tiptop shape, runs smoothly, and is safe. Therefore, for a flawless car, you should follow these five vital car care tips:

Cleaning Your Windshield Inside and Out

A clean windshield helps accomplish a couple of great things.

You can prevent sun glares
You can prevent scratches
And you can have a clearer driving visibility

Thus, it is a wise idea to wash your windshield inside and out as often as you can. Be sure to rely on a windshield cleaner and a microfiber cloth for the job. You will have an immaculate, clear windshield and stay safe on the road with this fantastic car care tip.

Refill on Windshield Washer Fluid

Frequently filling up on windshield washer fluid can help you maintain your windshield’s cleanliness. Plus, the less dirty your windshield is, the less sun glares you will have. This way, you can stay safe on the road. Additionally, this car care tip is great for preserving your car’s value.

Do Not Wash Your Car Under the Heat

A lot of drivers do not know that washing their cars under the heat can leave behind watermarks and stains. Not only is this an unappealing sight, but it is also terrible for your car’s health. Stains can create glares on your windshield as well as leave behind scratches. Similarly, stains can cause your car paint to dull in color. Thus, it is best to wash your car when the sun is not sharp.

Swap Sponges with Microfiber Cloths When Washing Your Car

A lot of drivers wash their cars with a sponge and dry them with a towel. It should be noted that that is a terrible thing to do. Sponges and towels can scratch the paint and glass over there. As a result, it is not a good idea to use them. Instead, swap them with microfiber cloths. They are gentle and safe on auto glass and car paint.

Clean Your Headlights with Baking Soda and Vinegar

This last car care tip is amazing! Clean your car’s headlights with a baking soda and vinegar mixture. This mixture eats away at the hazy dirt blocking the lights. In a few minutes, you will have shiny headlights as if you had just purchased your car.

Maintaining your car is crucial for its safety. With these five amazing car care tips, you will keep your car in tiptop shape and have total comfort.

Auto Protection Against Thieves

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At this time of year, we may have packages in our car’s back seat for all your family and friends but it’s also for all the world to see. Thieves often do not consider the morals of their actions. If they want to break into your car to either steal something from inside or to drive off with the vehicle, they will not hesitate. However, that does not mean that there is nothing you can do to have auto protection against thieves.

In fact, there are five important tips to follow if you want to be less likely targeted by thieves. Here are those five tips: Continue reading →

Windshield Glares

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Windshield glares are one of the most annoying driving problems to have. They block our sight, blind us while driving, and cause us to nearly get into car accidents. Glares are a driver’s worst enemy. And since they can get us into car accidents, they can destroy our windshields. A good way to prevent an accident is to have a car glass repair. This can help eliminate those irritating glares. Obviously, you cannot get rid of the sun or streetlights, which are the culprits behind those glares. However, you can protect your windshield against those glares by doing a few things. Continue reading →

Safe Halloween Driving

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With Halloween fast approaching, the Car Care Council reminds motorists to drive slowly, especially through neighborhoods, to be extra careful when entering or exiting driveways, and to make sure their vehicle’s brakes, lights and wipers are working properly for a safe Halloween.

“Motorists can help keep young pedestrians safe on Halloween by reminding children of basic safety rules, taking extra precautions when driving through neighborhoods, and inspecting vehicle safety items, like brakes,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “With daylight savings time on the horizon, October is also an ideal time to check vehicles lights and wipers to ensure maximum visibility.”

Check Your Windshield

A dirty windshield may look spooky but does not help to see children crossing the street. If the weather turns, cracked or torn wipers will also pose a problem to visibility. Check that all your lights are working for maximum performance and visibility on Halloween. This year the end of daylight saving time is after Halloween and that means children will likely be trick-or-treating at dusk when the sky is still bright, yet objects on the road can merge with shadows and fade into darkness.

Check Your Brakes

A vehicle’s brake system is the most critical safety item on a vehicle, but brakes wear out and eventually need replacement. Several factors that affect brake wear include driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type and the quality of the brake lining material. Never put off routine brake inspections or any needed repairs, such as letting the brakes get to the “metal-to-metal” point, which can be potentially dangerous and lead to more costly repairs.

Note to Parents

“Parents should remind their little ghosts and goblins to get out of cars on the curb side, not the street side, to stop at all corners and to use crosswalks,” continued White. “Children should look left, right and left again before crossing, stay on sidewalks, avoid crossing through yards, and wear bright, reflective and flame-retardant clothing.”

reprinted from the Car Care Council. The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers.

Car Care Tips

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Taking a good care of your car not only keeps your car looking nice but also protects you on the road. The better you preserve your car, the better it works. So, if you want to stay safe on the road, be sure to keep your car in the best shape. A couple of ways to do that is by following these amazing car care tips:

Cleaning Your Windshield Inside and Out

A clean windshield helps accomplish a couple of great things.

One, you can prevent sun glares.
Two, you can prevent scratches.
Three, you can have a clearer driving visibility.

Therefore, it is a wise idea to regularly wash your windshield inside and out. Be sure to rely on a windshield cleaner and a microfiber cloth for the job. You will have a flawless, clear windshield and stay safe on the road with this fantastic car care San Diego tip.

Do Not Wash Your Car Under Heat

Refill on Windshield Washer Fluid

Regularly refilling on windshield washer fluid can help you maintain your windshield’s cleanliness. Plus, the less dirty your windshield is, the less glares you will have. This way, you can stay safe on the road. This car care San Diego tip is a great way to also preserve your car’s value!

Substitute Sponges for Microfiber Cloths When Washing Your Car

A lot of drivers wash their cars with a sponge and dry them with a towel. It should be noted that that is a terrible thing to do. Sponges and towels can scratch the paint and glass over there. As a result, it is not a good idea to use them. Instead, switch over to microfiber cloths. They are gentle and safe on auto glass and car paint.

Clean Your Headlights with Baking Soda and Vinegar

The last but not least car care San Diego tip is to clean your car’s headlights with a baking soda and vinegar mixture. This mixture eats away at the hazy dirt blocking the lights. In a few minutes, you will have shiny headlights like they had been when you first purchased your car. Hooray!

These five car care San Diego tips will not only preserve your car’s value and appearance, they will also keep you safe on the road.

Check Your Tire Pressure

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Proper car maintenance of your car can be important for its long life and safe operation. Your tires are one of the most important parts of your car and checking the tire pressure is important. Regular care and maintenance are crucial to the safe and reliable performance of your vehicle.

When to check the tire pressure

Tire pressure should be checked once a month when tires are cold. Tire pressure can vary 1-2 pounds per square inch (psi) for every 10-degree difference in ambient temperature. Also you should consider checking your tire pressure more frequently in the following instances:

If you run over a sharp object
If you strike a curb
If the weather suddenly changes from warm to cold

How to check the amount of pressure in your tires

Remove the cap from the air valve of the tire by unscrewing it counterclockwise.
Press the tire gauge against the open valve stem. You will hear a hiss of air (perfectly normal).
Read the air pressure gauge. The number will appear on the dial or digital screen of the tire gauge.
Compare this number with the recommended tire pressure, found on the driver’s side door jamb.
Add air or let some out based on the recommendation.
Replace the tire’s air valve cap by screwing it back on clockwise.

How to inflate the car tires

Follow these steps to successfully inflate the tires to the correct pressure:

When you pull up to the air compressor, be sure the hose can reach all four tires.
Remove the stem caps by unscrewing them counterclockwise and set them to the side or put them in your pocket.
Check your tire’s psi using your own gauge or the gauge on the hose.
Press the hose nozzle down on the valve stem. Air may flow automatically or you may need to press the lever. You should feel the air flowing or hear the tire inflating.
Check the tire pressure by removing the hose fitting or releasing the inflation lever. Check the gauge on the hose or with your own gauge.
Adjust the pressure in all 4 tires the same way.
Once each tire is properly inflated, replace the valve caps by screwing them on clockwise.

Why Do Windshields Fog Up?

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What can you do when your windshields fog up after starting to drive? Why does this happen and what can you do about it? There are a variety of reasons why your windshield would fog including humidity, heat, and condensation.

Humidity

Humidity causes a buildup in water that turns into water vapor. You breathe the humid air. This air comes out from inside your body or off of it. Windshield fogging tends to be more of a problem when there is more than one person in the car since there is more breathing.

Heat

Temperature is actually molecules moving. More moisture is held with warm air than cold. However, this isn’t a chemical reaction. The molecules aren’t holding on to water molecules. More water becomes gas when it’s warmer than it does a liquid. And, there’s more space between each molecule with warm air therefore, the water molecules can fit into this space.

Condensation

Moist, warm air condensing when it hits your car’s colder windshield causes condensation. This usually happens in the early morning. This is also why on humid, warm days when you have your car air conditioner running you’ll see condensation form at the windshield’s base where it meets the cool air.

When there’s 100 percent relative humidity, if the temperature decreases more, the water needs to find its way out someplace. On a morning that’s cool outside when there’s fog or dew on the ground, that’s because the moist, warm air contacts the cold ground.

How to Clear Away the Fog on your Windshield

You can clear fog in many ways. And although there’s no special way of doing it that works best each time, the two that are more likely to work better are as follows.

Put your defroster on a high setting.
Set the temperature to hot.
Turn off the recirculation setting.
Turn on the air conditioner.
Crack your windows.

Dry the Air Out

Your best option is to run your air conditioner, depending on your comfort level. This method works well when the outside temperatures are above freezing and damp, wet humans getting into the car causes the fog. While cold is best when running your A/C, you can still run the air at a warmer temperature and get rid of the fog.

Evaporate the Water Vapor

For an easy and fast fix, turn the heat on and run it through your defrosters. This causes the condensation to evaporate kind of like the moisture on your clothes evaporating when you turn the clothes dryer on. This method works better when there are colder temperatures and you are catching the fog buildup early.

When your windshield is extremely foggy, you can use a small squeegee or dry cloth to clear up the fog quickly and then turn on the cold A/C. Slowly increase the air’s temperature if you find the A/C is too cold for you until you dry out the air inside your car.

Keep in mind that when you’re drying air that’s inside your vehicle, you need to pull in the outdoors air rather than simply circulating inside air. These days, most defrosters already do this.

Now, that you know what to do when your car windshield fogs, do you know what to do if your windshield has a chip or a crack? Call 7 Star Auto Glass today!