Installing A Windshield Yourself
Many of us have tackled DIY projects at some point, from simple repairs to bigger tasks. With the rise in DIY popularity, it’s easy to think that almost anything can be done on your own—even windshield replacement in Phoenix. However, it’s crucial to clarify—installing a car windshield by yourself is not a good idea. A windshield is a crucial part of your car’s safety and structure. In the event of a rollover accident, the windshield supports 60% of the car’s structural integrity. If the windshield is improperly installed, it can weaken the vehicle’s overall strength, causing more damage in an accident and increasing the chances of serious injury or fatality. Before deciding to attempt this challenging task, here’s what you need to know.
Your Windshield—Essential for Vehicle Safety
The safety of both you and your passengers depends on the integrity of your vehicle. While many are aware that worn-out tires or bad brakes can affect driving safety, not everyone realizes that the windshield is just as important. A properly installed windshield protects you from road debris, bad weather, and plays a key role in the vehicle’s structural stability, especially during a crash. For this reason, having your windshield installed by a certified professional who follows the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) guidelines is essential. This ensures that the windshield is installed to meet Federal Safety Standards, keeping the vehicle’s structure intact and your safety intact.
Choosing the Correct Windshield Glass
One major challenge of installing a windshield yourself is selecting the right glass. Many people don’t realize that there are three main types of auto glass used for windshields: dealer glass, aftermarket glass, and Original Equipment Equivalent (OEE) glass. Choosing the wrong glass type can affect the safety and function of your windshield. Furthermore, DIY windshield installations may not be covered by your insurance policy, and you may lose out on any warranty that would typically come with professional installation.
Windshield Calibration
Many modern cars come equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These systems use radar, cameras, and sensors to enhance driving safety. They help with things like collision avoidance, maintaining safe distances, and even parking assistance. What many people don’t realize is that these systems rely on cameras and sensors, many of which are mounted in or near the windshield. Proper calibration of these sensors is essential, as even a slight misalignment can cause the ADAS system to malfunction. Special tools and software are required to ensure the camera’s position is correct, or it could disable important safety features.
In short, windshield replacement in Phoenix is a task best justify to professionals. Whether you need Same-day windshield replacement Phoenix or Certified auto glass technicians Phoenix, a skilled expert can ensure the job is done right. Choosing professional services also helps avoid mistakes and ensures your windshield is installed with the correct glass and calibrated properly, especially in cars with ADAS. For the best windshield replacement in Phoenix, always choose a trusted and experienced professional.