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(ARA) - There is good reason why states with Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspection (PMVI) programs require damaged windshields to be repaired or replaced before a vehicle passes inspection. The windshield, seatbelts and airbags make up what automobile design engineers refer to as the vehicle’s passenger safety restraint system (SRS).
“The SRS is designed to retain vehicle occupants inside the relative safety of the passenger compartment during a collision or roll over,” says Leo Cyr, vice president of the National Glass Association’s (NGA) Auto Glass Division. “All three SRS components must be undamaged and in proper working order for the driver and passengers to realize the full intended safety benefit.”.
Unlike seatbelts and airbags, the windshield also contributes to the vehicle’s structural integrity by supporting the roof during a rollover. If the windshield is dislodged during a rollover, roof crush may be more severe. In addition, some vehicles are equipped with passenger side airbags that use the windshield for support during deployment. A damaged or improperly installed windshield may render that air bag ineffective when needed most.
“No one knows how many accidents are caused when we forget to check for bald tires or become accustomed to sluggish brakes,” says Cyr, “but we look through our windshield every day. There’s really no excuse for ignoring a broken or cracked windshield when affordable options are available.”
Most professional auto glass businesses today offer both windshield repair and windshield replacement. Fred Sorensen, chairman of NGA’s Windshield Repair Committee, suggests immediate attention be given to small rock chips and cracks. “If caught before the damage spreads, it is not only possible but highly likely that the customer’s original windshield can be saved. The cost is minimal especially when compared to buying a replacement windshield.”
The NGA’s Windshield Repair Committee recommends replacing any windshield where the damage has pierced the windshield’s inner PVB layer or has broken the inner (passenger side) layer of glass. “If the consumer is unsure if either condition exists,” says Sorensen, “a National Glass Association member in their area can inspect the damage and advise what action should be taken.”
During windshield repair, the damaged windshield is not removed from the vehicle. The factory applied seal of windshield to vehicle is preserved. That fact alone may be good reason to consider windshield repair as a first option.
Some windshields may be so badly damaged that repair is not possible. If windshield replacement is indicated, Sorensen recommends that consumers place their highest priority on locating a competent, professional installation company. “Shopping for auto glass replacement service is not like buying a ‘name’ brand versus a ‘store’ brand at competing retailers”, he says. “Windshield replacement is a skilled, safety related service requiring highly trained technicians using the best materials technology can provide.”
The NGA recommends using an NGA Certified Auto Glass Technician or Master Technician for all windshield replacements. Consumers may locate NGA certified technicians in their area at www.glass.org, or, www.myautoglass.org where additional information on auto glass safety is also available. Courtesy of ARA Content