Call Now!

 

(805) 625-9344

Can a Car With a Cracked Windshield Go Through a Carwash

Can a Car With a Cracked Windshield Go Through a Carwash?

A car with a cracked windshield can go through a carwash, but it's best to make sure the glass is in good condition first. Oxnard Mobile Auto Glass encourages a quick inspection or repair to help keep your windshield in good shape before visiting an automatic carwash. Even a small crack deserves care, as addressing it early supports long term safety and performance. Taking proactive steps can help you avoid a full replacement, which often takes more time and resources than a simple repair. By resolving the issue ahead of time, you make the cleaning process smoother and more secure.

In this blog, you’ll learn how different car wash settings interact with damaged glass and how to choose the safest, most effective method to keep your car clean.

(805) 625-9344

What Happens to a Cracked Windshield in a Car Wash?

A car wash can be a great way to keep your car clean, but if the windshield is already cracked, understanding how the process works can help you prevent the crack from spreading.

Glass Becomes More Sensitive

Once a crack appears, the glass becomes more responsive to pressure and changes in temperature. By knowing this, you can make gentle cleaning choices that help protect your windshield.

Water and Heat Add Extra Stress

Car washes use strong water jets and may involve shifts in temperature. These changes are fine for intact glass, but if there's a crack, it’s a good time to go with a more careful method. Recognizing this lets you clean safely without placing extra force on the glass, which can help you avoid unnecessary auto glass replacement.

Oxnard Mobile Auto Glass · Can a Car With a Cracked Windshield Go Through a Carwash?

Types of Car Washes and Their Risks

Each car wash offers different benefits. When your windshield is cracked, selecting the gentlest option gives you peace of mind and great results.

Touchless Car Wash

Touchless car washes use only water and soap, eliminating the need for brushes and reducing the risk of paint scratches. While they’re gentle on your vehicle’s exterior, the high-pressure jets can still aggravate existing windshield cracks. This added stress might lead to further damage, potentially requiring a windshield replacement. To avoid this risk, it’s best to wait until the crack is professionally repaired before visiting a car wash.

Soft Touch Car Wash

Soft touch car washes gently clean using moving cloths or brushes. While effective, they make light contact with your car and may press on a damaged area.

Hand Washing

Hand washing is the safest method when your windshield has a crack. It gives you complete control over pressure and contact, allowing you to keep your car clean while protecting the glass from further stress.

Why You Should Choose a Gentler Option

By choosing a careful wash method while the windshield is cracked, you’re giving yourself the best chance at preserving the glass and avoiding further spread.

Cracks Respond Well to Low Stress Environments

Even a small crack can benefit from a low pressure, gentle environment. Washing by hand or waiting for repairs helps keep the crack stable and manageable.

Safe Driving Starts with a Strong Windshield

Taking steps to protect your windshield keeps your field of vision clear and supports your safety on the road. A well maintained windshield provides peace of mind in any driving condition.

Faster Care Means Less Downtime

Handling a windshield crack gently until it's repaired helps you stay on the road with fewer delays. A little care now helps avoid longer repair times later.

What to Do Instead of Using a Car Wash

You can keep your car clean and protect your windshield at the same time. With a few small changes to your routine, you’ll stay on track and avoid making the crack worse.

Check the Damage First

Take a quick look at the crack. If it’s near the edge or seems long, choosing hand washing for now is a smart and protective step. You’ll prevent the crack from spreading and keep everything in place.

Choose Hand Washing

A soft cloth, gentle soap, and low water pressure let you clean without any extra strain on the glass. This method keeps your car shining and your windshield protected.

Be Gentle With the Car

Smooth driving and gentle door closing reduce vibration around the glass. Parking in shaded spots also keeps the glass at a steady temperature, which helps the crack stay stable.

How to Keep the Crack from Getting Worse

You can easily take steps to protect the crack until you're ready to get it repaired. These small actions go a long way in keeping your windshield strong.

Cover the Crack

A simple piece of clear tape keeps dirt and moisture out of the crack. This makes future repairs easier and keeps the glass in better shape.

Keep Temperatures Steady

Try to park in the shade or a garage. Avoid blasting very hot or cold air directly on the glass. This keeps the crack from growing and helps the glass stay in better condition.

Wash Only When Needed

Until the repair is done, washing your car less often and using a soft approach is the best way to care for it. A gentle touch keeps both the car and the windshield looking their best.

Safe Car Wash Tips for Cracked Windshields

Choosing to hand wash your car while your windshield has a crack is a smart and effective way to prevent further damage. You’ll keep your vehicle clean, avoid costly repairs, and stay safe on the road. With just a few adjustments, you can continue to care for your car and protect your windshield until it's fully restored.

Contact Information

Oxnard Mobile Auto Glass

Website

https://www.oxnardmobileautoglass.com/

Address

2975 KELP LN UNIT A OXNARD CA 93035

Working Hours

7AM to 9PM

Phone

(805) 625-9344

Get In Touch

7AM to 9PM

2975 KELP LN UNIT A OXNARD CA 93035

© Copyright 2024 Oxnard Mobile Auto Glass. All Rights Reserved.