How Long Can I Drive with a Windshield Crack?

: Published: 22 March 2018

A crack in the windshield happens when an object strikes the glass with sufficient force to cause the crack. We’ve seen all sorts of ways car glass can break. A typical scenario involves small rocks falling from a dump truck, or the tires of the car ahead flinging debris behind as it travels down the road. Whatever the reason for the crack, it's important that you know a reputable auto glass company for those moments your windshield needs repairing or replacing.

Driving with a cracked windshield is never a good idea. The crack could impede your ability to see the road ahead and therefore interfere with your ability to safely operate your vehicle. You should contact a reliable auto glass repair company soon after a crack appears on the windshield. Different factors determine how long you can drive with a crack on the windshield, which we will discuss in this article.

Factors that affect How Long Can You Drive with a Windshield Crack

The first factor to consider in any windshield break is if your vehicle is safe to drive. The size of crack is one factor that determines if you can drive after a crack occurs. In case the crack is large, chances are it may actually be illegal to drive in your state. You will want to get the crack repaired immediately in this case. On the other hand, if the crack is small, you may drive for a long time without any problem — but getting it repaired is still recommended.

Another important factor is the location of the crack. If the crack hinders the view as you drive the car, you should have it repaired right away. However, if the crack is small and on the passenger side, you could possibly drive for hundreds of miles without any issue.

Why Repair Cracks in the Windshield Immediately?

You should get a crack in the windshield repaired as soon as possible. One of the main reasons most people don't get it repaired soon is the cost. However, the fact is that the longer you wait to repair the crack, the more it will cost you over time.

A small crack on the windshield will cost much less as compared to a replacement. The crack can enlarge when you don't get it repaired.

Why do cracks grow over time?

Bumps in the road when driving can enlarge the crack over time. The crack will gradually spread until it can't be repaired, and you will have to get the windshield replaced. Also, dirt may get inside the glass that will weaken the windshield. That's why it's essential that you get even a small crack on the windshield repaired immediately.

Smiley's Glass provides experienced auto glass repair and replacement services in Richmond Virginia. We offer the safest and finest services when it comes to windshield repair or replacement. You can rest assured that we use only quality, manufacturer approved products as prescribed by theAuto Glass Safety Council’s AGRSS program. For more information on our expert auto glass repair or replacement services, you can contact us by dialing 804-320-7172.

What People Say

"first time using this company. Highly recommend. I was quoted a price over the phone of 489 and some change. I had a 500 comprehensive deduction on my car policy so I was not going thru insurance. they gave me a huge discount with tax I paid 419.00. I was pleased with the work and the wonderful surprise of the discount. if I ever need glass work again they have my business. ***** 5 star review"

- Donna Scotto-couto, via Facebook Review

"I had a rock bust the windshield on my Kenworth service truck, I originally called safelite but after a month and several excuses I called Smileys, both ladies that answered the phone were knowledgeable and very helpful even when I called a few minutes befor closing on a Friday, I set up a appointment and got my glass installed a day earlier then my appointment date, I have alway used safelite for my personal vehicles but after my experience with Smileys they will be the only ones I call from now on for my glass needs."

- Brandon Cochran, via Facebook Review

"Smiley's has done a lot of work for me over the years, both in the shop and remotely, and their office and service staff have always been fantastic. They take great care to make sure the work is done properly. I would never take my vehicle anywhere else for glass."

- Lauren Hostetler, via Facebook Review

"Smileys had a very similar price to the big chain in town but I was able to speak to a local human and do business with a local company. They have excellent communication and the installer did a great job. They were even able to get me in sooner than the large chain! Thank you Smiley's!"

- Scott Mcewen, via Google Review

"Took our company truck in on an emergency basis this morning and they had the replacement in and the truck was ready to go before end of business. They told us tomorrow, which was also super fast. Never thought we would be back on the road the same day. Phenomenal service and a reasonable rate. Can not recommend them enough."

- Kristine Kvasnicka, via Google Review

"My boyfriend and I had our windshield shattered by a truck tire tread while traveling. Smiley's worked us into their busy schedule, and replaced the windshield within several hours. All the staff are incredibly friendly and helpful as well."

- Rachel Watson, via Google Review

"I took my SUV in to have a window regulator replaced. I supplied the part and they did the work for $125. In and out in under an hour and a half. They are a straight forward and honest business. I will use them again when needed and I highly recommend them. All in, it was less than half the cost of a local auto repair shop."

- Ken Hensley, via Google Review

"Big THANK YOU to Ashley Oswald and the fantastic team at Smiley's Glass. I needed my windshield replaced due to a large rock chip that turned into a crack across the entire front glass. I reached out to Smiley's for a quote. Ashley made the whole process super simple, scheduling was efficient, and the price for the repair was very competitive. Their mobile glass replacement crew was on-time, communicative, and took exceptional care of my vehicle. 100% will use again!"

- Tyson Miller, via Google Review

“A rock got kicked up to the windshield when I was driving down the highway and put quarter-sized "star" chip in. Smiley's was able to fit me in for a repair even though I didn't have an appointment. The staff was very professional and informative on the process. The only thing you can really see from the chip is a small mark where the impact happened. Everything else filled in nicely… Would certainly go back here for any future windshield repair needs.”

- Bryan Metrick, via Google Review

“The windshield was replaced in my truck. They did a great job. They arrived on time and cleaned up. It's like they were never there, other than new glass.”

- Keith Throckmorton, via Google Review