Tag Archives: Power window repair

Auto Glass Damage

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.

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 →

Power Window Repair

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Is your power window jammed? We can fix it. When power windows jam in the open position, it is important to get a power window repair right away.

Keep the rain outside the car, not inside.

If you are driving with a jammed power window and a rain storm comes up suddenly, your car’s interior can get drenched. Besides that, it is distracting. If you have a jammed window, act fast. Getting a power window repair prevents rain from ever entering your car. This way, you will not get into accidents because you got drenched while trying to concentrate on the road.

Thieves can see your car’s contents

Another important reason to get a power window repair is to prevent thieves from breaking into your car. Just picture your jammed window, which is open just a crack, leaving room for thieves to unlock your car. Having an open (or even broken window) tempts thieves. It is best to protect your car by getting a repair. This way, the chance of a thief eyeing your car decreases.

Your window can shatter

If your power window has a chip or crack in it, then it definitely needs a repair. A big reason for that is because the damage can get worse. Although a tiny chip might appear harmless, it is not. Imagine driving on the road when your window shatters. If you happen to be right next to that window, the glass might fly at you. This can be dangerous on the road. Avoiding this situation is best, and you can do it by taking your car for a repair.

The weather outside may be frightfully cold or hot

It is impossible to keep outside temperatures stay outside since you have a jammed power window. If you have a jammed or broken power window, hot or cold air can seep in. While it might be fun to have the windows down occasionally, if it is freezing or hot, this isn’t ideal. Getting a power window repair is a wise choice. It will protect you from extreme weather temperatures and keep your attention on the road.

Getting a power window repair is important, even essential, if you have a jammed car window. It ensures your safety on and off the road.

Car Glass Repair – what to use and what not to use

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Are you doing anything wrong when you wash your car? Are you leaving streaks behind on the windshield, for instance? Are you leaving scratches on the glass? By avoiding these top three unsafe products, you will prevent a car glass repair.

Sponges

Sponges are probably the most commonly reached for product when it comes to washing a car. People associate sponges with cleanliness because they are regularly used to clean dishware. Sponges are meant to scrub, not gently clean. Sponges, when used to wash cars, can scratch at the paint. Worse yet is when they are used to wash car glass. They can end up harming the surface. Though signs of scratches may not appear right away, over months and years, you will notice them. It is important to refrain from using sponges to prevent a car glass repair.

Towels

Why not use a towel to dry a newly-washed vehicle? Chances are, you have done this numerous times. Just like with using a sponge to clean your car glass, using a towel to dry the glass can scratch the surface. While towels seem soft, they are not soft enough to use on a car glass.

Ammonia (glass cleaner)

Many household products contain ammonia in them, and ammonia is very harmful on cars. Though you can use glass cleaner on regular windows and mirrors, you should not use it on your car glass. Not only does ammonia leave streaks on auto glass, which creates glares while you drive, but it also can ruin the glass especially if it is tinted. Over time, ammonia will cause the tint to peel off, leaving you with terrible windows and windshield. It is best to steer clear of ammonia-based products if you do not want to deal with car glass repair.

What Can You Use?

Get a microfiber cloth, or two (one for washing and one for drying). A microfiber cloth is safe to use on a car’s paint and glass. It is soft and smooth and will not scratch. Next, go to an auto shop or a retail store with an auto shop section. There, you should find many products that are safe to use on car glass. Some examples are Armor All Auto Glass Cleaner, Mothers Glass Cleaner, Rain-X Automotive Glass Cleaner, and Invisible Glass Premium Glass Cleaner. These are recommended for washing car glass.

Preventing a car glass repair is not as complicated as it may seem. By avoiding everyday products you are using to wash your car, you will prevent major damages.

Cracked Windshield Risk

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There are several reasons for not replacing the windshields. Little do they realize the risk they’re putting themselves and their families in by not having cracked windshield repair el cajon.

Excuses vary. Some say their insurance has a deductible that they currently can’t afford. Some say the crack doesn’t obstruct their view, while others say they just don’t see the necessity if it’s not shattered. It’s hard not to roll my eyes at all these answers. The purpose of this article is to tell you why it’s so important to have a good windshield on your vehicle and to give you some tips for when you make this very important purchase.

The Purpose of Your Windshield

Believe it or not, front windshields serve a much bigger purpose than just allowing you to see outside of the car when you’re driving. They also protect you from the rain, snow and other elements of weather. More importantly, however, are the safety features provided by your car’s windshield such as the 3 bullet points below.

It Acts As A Shield For Air Bags – Cheap, low-quality glass is more likely to crack or pop out, which can cause incorrect deployment or improper inflation of your air bags.
It Prevents The Roof From Collapsing – Many people don’t realize that the windshield of the car provides from 30% to 60% of the car’s structural strength. In a roll-over crash, a cheap windshield can cause your roof to collapse, which can be life-threatening to you and your passengers.
It Helps Prevent Ejection of Passengers in a Crash – Your windshield can also keep you from being thrown from your vehicle in the case of a collision. With the exception of seat belts, the windshield provides the most safety from being thrown from your vehicle. These are some of the many reasons why OEM glass is required by car manufacturers.

Safety Comes First

Purchasing auto glass for any part of your vehicle is more than just opening the phone book and choosing the first provider with the cheapest price. Safety should always be the #1 concern when we’re driving. Here are four safety questions you should ask windshield replacement service providers before you choose which one to use.

How Qualified are the Technicians Replacing Your Windshield? While windshield replacement service providers, also referred to as auto glass technicians, are not required to be licensed, they should be highly trained, experienced and knowledgeable of the whole process. With so many makes and models of vehicles around today all having different types and shapes of auto glass, windshield installation and replacement can be complicated. Ask your auto glass technician to provide proof they are certified. Do some research before hiring someone to do the job. Are they reputable? Will they take care of insurance paperwork for you? Check credentials while comparing costs!
What Type of Glass & Adhesive Do They Use?If your auto glass technician states he can get you a windshield cheaper than average, you should definitely question what type of glass is being used. Is it OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass? OEM glass is safer, sturdier and less prone to cracking. If you’ve gone so far as to require OEM glass, you will want to ask if they are using OEM adhesives as well. Low-quality adhesives do not work as well in wet or cold climates and take much longer to dry or cure. This can be a real problem if the car is used too soon after installation. In other words, the windshield may leak with the slightest impact if you start driving around before the urethane has time to dry.
How Soon Can You Drive Your Car After Installation? With the busy lives we all lead today, we seldom have the time to sit at a garage waiting for a new windshield to be installed. Auto glass providers often come to our home or place of business and do the work while we do our work. This is extremely convenient, but can be dangerous if we’re unknowingly driving the car before it’s ready. The glass and urethane need time to properly cure to the car in order to prevent future problems. This is known as “safe drive away time” and is listed on each bottle of urethane. Question your windshield replacement service provider on this safety issue, as well as if there are any precautions that should be taken a couple days after installation.
What Type of Warranty Do They Provide? If you’re like many others who have waited almost forever to finally replace your windshield, you’re going to want to make sure it last and, if it doesn’t, that they’ll replace it free. If you’re offered anything less than at least a 1-year warranty, question the type of glass that’s being used. Some companies may offer a lifetime warranty. If this is offered, you can almost assume they’re using high-quality OEM glass.

Windshield – Replacement or Repair?

As much as you may want to put off spending money on your damaged windshield, it’s very possible you may only need a repair. A good rule of thumb is that if the crack is at least as long as a dollar bill, it should be replaced. Even if it’s shorter than a dollar bill, it should be replaced if it extends to the edge of the glass. If the chip or crack is smaller than a dollar bill and it’s not extended to the edge of the glass, it may be able to be safely repaired. Additionally, if the crack is in your line of vision, it needs to be replaced.

While all the glass on your car is important, the front windshield is most important in terms of having it fixed when it’s damaged. Something to consider, insurance companies often will pay to have a windshield repaired because it may prevent a larger expense if it shatters completely. Also, some insurance companies require a deductible be paid for replacements, while others may waive the deductible. Contacting your insurance company could save you money! That being said, the main concern here is safety and hiring a certified technician will ensure the job is done correctly whether you’re saving money through your insurance or not.

Auto Glass Future

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The world is constantly changing with advanced technology. Auto glass future may be changing also.

There are two types of glass in your automobile – laminated glass (mostly used for windshields) and tempered glass (mostly used for side glass).

Laminated Glass vs. Tempered Glass

Laminated glass is basically a glass sandwich. It is made of two or more plies of glass with a vinyl interlayer between (sandwiched, if you will, as in a car’s windshield). The glass will tend to stay together and case one in is broken – thus qualifying as a safety glazing material.

Tempered glass is made by heating and cooling a piece of standard glass in a tempering furnace. The glass, which must be pre-cut and edged before being put into the tempering furnace, is heated to approximately 1200°F and then cooled rapidly.

Now some companies are working to develop a chemically tempered glass much stronger than conventional automotive glass, known as soda lime glass. This glass could offer a lighter weight to windshields but with a great deal of strength.

When it comes to windshields, being stronger means being safer. The lighter weight can also help cars be more fuel efficient. Gorilla Glass was first used for smartphone screens in 2007. The Ford GT was the first to used Gorilla Glass for its windshield. Some new vehicle designs are using larger windshield, even full glass canopies. This means the glass needs to be more efficient for safety.

For now, laminated glass is the best option for windshields. It keeps passengers safer and has a sound-proofing benefit to it. Tempered glass is still a good choice for other auto glass applications. It can be broken more easily if breaking the window for exiting is needed.

As technology makes changes to auto glass, it’s important to you find an auto glass shop that keeps up with the latest for windshield repair and replacement

Prevent Auto Glass Replacement

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If you have a damaged windshield, going back in time is not possible. However, if your car is in a perfectly good condition, you can prevent damages from occurring. In fact, to prevent a windshield replacement San Diego, the best place to start is before any damage occurs. After all, a big factor that leads drivers to getting a replacement is neglecting their car. Lack of maintenance can cause your windshield to get scratched or cracked. The below three blogs will help you prevent auto glass replacement: Continue reading →

Windshield Wipers can scratch your windshield

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Windshield wipers are a life saver when they are in good condition. They make your view clear. When your windshield wipers get old, they can create hazardous driving conditions, like driving in the rain or at night. If the wipers cause streaks, it can block your view and make it difficult to see road signs or oncoming traffic.

How do windshield wipers scratch your windshield?

The rubber edge gets worn out or damaged leaving the metal exposed. Then the metal comes in contact with the glass. The windshield wiper blades are designed to press firmly against the glass and the movement of the blades can cause the metal to dig into the surface resulting in small indentations. The scratches and streaks will only worsen unless resolved.

What can you expect from damaged windshield wipers?

Scratches can reflect sunlight and headlights from oncoming cars
Blades will not wipe all the water off the blades causing limited vision
Water streaks can cause a distraction

Can windshield scratches be removed?

Depending on the depth of the scratches, many can be polished out, however, deep scratches on the windshield may require a full windshield replacement.

Regularly checking and replacing your windshield wipers is a good practice to avoid a full windshield replacement. Replacing your wipers takes very little time.

If you do need a windshield replacement, let 7 Star Auto Glass do the job. Our certified technicians can install a new windshield on any domestic or foreign vehicle.

Bird Droppings – How To Clean Them Off Your Windshield

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Bird droppings happen anytime especially if you are parked under a tree. If not removed properly, bird droppings can lead to an auto glass repair. Many people choose to wipe the bird droppings off with a wet cloth, but is there a better way to do it? There are several ways you should NOT clean bird droppings:

Towels or Sponges?

Using a sponge to clean bird droppings from your car might seem like a good method, but it can damage your car. Although towels and sponges are often used to clean cars, they are not designed for car cleaning in general. Save your sponges and towels for household dishes. Microfiber cloths are a good choice because they are soft and do not scratch the glass or paint of your car. Thus, if you need to wipe them off, only use microfiber cloths.

Windshield Wipers?

Windshield wipers are regularly used to clean the glass and keep it clear. However, using your wipers to clean bird droppings damages the wipers and sometimes even scratches the glass. It is better not to use windshield wipers if you have bird droppings on your windshield. This will help you prevent an auto glass repair.

Dried Bird Droppings?

If they harden on your windshield and car paint. Therefore, removing them is sometimes difficult. Some drivers choose to scratch at the dried bird droppings using tools such as towels, brushes, or even their fingernail. This can not only scratch the droppings but scratching it can lead to a car glass repair.

Then What Should You Do?

Microfiber cloths are the best choice. Products like WD-40 can soften the bird droppings. Spraying this oil on the the droppings makes wiping them off with the microfiber cloth easier.

There is a right and a wrong way to clean the droppings off your car and windshield, and doing it the wrong way can lead to an auto glass repair. Prevent a costly repair with these simple tips!