Your vehicle's windshield and windows play a crucial role in maintaining a clear line of sight to other traffic and help you stay safe during travel Since auto glass is exposed to hazards that can cause potential damage such as scratches or breaks, which can compromise visibility, awareness is key.

You may be surprised that even routine driving conditions can cause scratches on your auto glass and become a safety hazard. These common risks and steps to prevent them will help you avoid damage and keep your auto glass intact.

Road Debris

One of the primary culprits behind windshield scratches is road debris because it can occur anywhere and is almost impossible to avoid. Dust, gravel, and small rocks kicked up by other vehicles can collide with your windshield and create scratches on your auto glass, especially during highway driving. If you drive on rural or unpaved roads, this can be more common. Take precautions to allow distance between vehicles and get any auto glass damage checked out as soon as possible by a professional glass shop. Small pits in auto glass can spread and become a larger visual impairment.

Improper Cleaning Techniques

Cleaning your vehicle's glass with abrasive materials, such as rough sponges or dirty cloths, can scratch your auto glass. Always use a soft, clean microfiber cloth or sponge and an appropriate cleaner to avoid damaging the surface of the glass. Check the cloths you use to ensure they don’t have abrasive particles or other cleaning solutions on them before using.

Tree Branches and Foliage

Parking under trees might offer shade but also exposes your vehicle to falling branches, twigs, bird droppings, and sap. Over time, these elements can lead to scratches on your auto glass. Choose parking spots carefully and consider using parking garages whenever possible. A carport or a car cover when home is a good option if you don't have a garage.

Impact from Foreign Objects

Accidents happen, and even a slight impact from objects such as a stray ball, can result in scratches or a chip in your auto glass. Stay vigilant and park in safe areas to reduce the likelihood of these incidents. If you have a garage or carport, park your car inside when there is a chance of inclement weather. Hale is a common weather-related cause of car window damage.

Winter Conditions

During winter, ice scrapers can inadvertently cause scratches to car windows if misused. Allow your vehicle to warm up and use a gentle, light motion when removing ice to prevent damage to the glass surface. If properly defrosted, the windows should easily be cleared of snow and ice.

Road Construction Zones

Driving through areas where there's road work can expose your car to a variety of hazards, including loose gravel, sand, and debris. Exercise caution in these areas and maintain a safe following distance and safe speed to minimize the risk of scratches or use detours when available.

Dirty or Faulty Windshield Wipers

Dust and grime can accumulate on your wiper blades over time, turning them into a risk to your windshield. Worn-out or damaged wiper blades can leave behind streaks and cause scratches on your windshield. If you hear screeching or scraping noises while your windshield wipers are moving, it may indicate they are damaged or worn. Regularly inspect, clean, and replace your wiper blades to ensure they function smoothly and don't cause damage to the windshield.

Preventing auto glass scratches requires a combination of mindful driving, regular maintenance, and routine cleaning habits. Storing and parking your vehicle in secure areas is also key. By staying vigilant and addressing potential hazards promptly, you can help keep your vehicle's glass surfaces clear and free from unsightly scratches while maintaining the safest driving conditions possible.

For damaged auto glass, contact Smiley’s Auto Glass for a free quote at 804-320-7172 or contact us online. We have served our satisfied customers for decades and are here to take care of all your auto glass needs so you can get back on the road. We provide a convenient mobile glass repair or replacement service to ensure you avoid any disruptions to your busy schedule.