Tips & Facts

If your vehicle has an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) fitted, you will need to have it calibrated after a windscreen replacement. Technicians have to disconnect cameras and sensors when replacing a windscreen. Upon reconnection, the camera alignment could be compromised and new glass placement may differ fractionally (we’re talking 2mm). Calibration is needed to restore all systems to the exact position and condition they were in originally, pre-windscreen replacement.

The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are so technical and sensitive that even a bump at a low speed could cause a misalignment to one of the sensors. If a sensor is out by a couple of millimeters it could be detrimental to the accuracy of a number of systems including the cruise control, lane assist and collision braking systems. Just because the camera or sensor isn’t damaged there are many times when calibration or realigning is required.

The Highway Code states that drivers should have a full view of the road and traffic ahead. If a chip turned into a crack in your windscreen, this would affect your visibility and would be against the law. This could result in a £1,000 fine. Therefore, even if you do just have a small chip, it’s definitely worth getting it fixed sooner rather than later.

Damage on your windscreens could result in an MOT fail and your vehicle will not be deemed roadworthy. Damage of 40mm or larger anywhere on the windscreen will mean your vehicle will fail its MOT. However, a chip or crack of 10mm will also mean an MOT fail if it is in Zone A of the windscreen - this is the section of windscreen that is 290mm wide and centred on the steering wheel.

Windscreen repairs are often much quicker than windscreen replacements, so you’ll be back on the road in no-time. The actual appointment time only takes 45 minutes and can be at a location of your choice. It’s worth booking an appointment as soon as you see the damage and getting it sorted to save you having your whole windscreen replaced if further damage occurs and keeping your car off the road for longer than necessary.

Ensure you top up with good quality anti-freeze screen wash. It may cost you more than just using water but it’s important that your car windscreen stays clean and you have clear visibility on the roads. It’s all well and good purchasing the screen wash, but remember, you need to keep your screen wash topped up throughout the autumn and winter months.

When the car is being switched off always allow the wipers to ‘self park’. Otherwise the wipers will then finish their sweep once the ignition is turned back on. If the screen is dry and grit is resting on the blades it’s likely the rubber will drag across the glass and scratch the surface; or if iced up, it may cause major damage to the wiper mechanism.