How to Pass Inspection With a Cracked Windshield: Tips and Tricks

If you have a crack in your windshield, you may be wondering if you can pass inspection with it. The answer depends on several factors, such as the size, location, and severity of the crack, as well as the state laws and regulations. In this article, we will explain what you need to know about windshield cracks and inspection, and how to fix them if needed.

What are the consequences of driving with a cracked windshield?

Driving with a cracked windshield is not only risky for your inspection, but also for your safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are over 11,000 windshield-related car crashes each year. A cracked windshield can cause all sorts of problems, such as:

Impairing your vision. Even a small crack can create a spider web of lines that can obscure your view of the road. This can make it difficult to see other cars, pedestrians, and potential hazards.
Weakening the structural integrity of your car. In a front-end collision, a weakened windshield is more likely to shatter, which can cause serious injuries to you and your passengers.
Being a safety hazard for other drivers. If your windshield is cracked and you’re involved in a car accident, flying glass can cause serious injuries to other motorists.
Allowing water and debris to enter the car, which can lead to corrosion and other damage.
Being a sign that the car has been in an accident, which may have damaged other parts of the car as well.
Being very expensive to replace, so it is not worth the risk to allow it to stay on the car.

So, what are the consequences of driving with a cracked windshield? In short, it’s not worth the risk. If you can’t see clearly, you’re more likely to get into an accident. And if you do get into an accident, the consequences could be severe. So, if you have a cracked windshield, get it fixed as soon as possible.

How likely is it that my car will fail inspection with a cracked windshield?

Chances are, if your car has a cracked windshield, it will fail inspection. Here are some reasons why:

A cracked windshield can obstruct the driver’s view, which is a safety hazard.
A cracked windshield can weaken the structural integrity of the car in the event of an accident.
A cracked windshield can be against the state laws and regulations.

While the inspection checklist varies by state, most states will require the inspector to review your windshield for any glass distortion, cracks and chips. For example:

In Virginia, the vehicle will not pass inspection if there is a pit, chip, or star crack larger than 1-inches in diameter at any location in the windshield above the 3-inch line at the bottom; or there is any crack that weakens the windshield so that one piece may be moved in relation to the other.
In New York, your windshield will not pass inspection if it has a crack more than 11 inches long, with any part of the crack in the windshield wiper path, or a ‘star’ crack which is more than three inches in diameter.

To find out the specific requirements for your state, you can check with your local DMV or inspection station.

How to fix a cracked windshield and pass inspection easily?

If you have a crack in your windshield that may affect your inspection, you have two options: repair or replace. The best option depends on the size, location, and severity of the crack.

If the crack is small (less than six inches long), you may be able to repair it with a windshield repair kit. These kits contain resin and tools that can fill in the crack and prevent it from spreading. However, repairing a crack does not make it disappear completely; it may still be visible and affect your vision. Also, repairing a crack does not restore the strength of the windshield; it may still shatter in an accident.

If the crack is large (more than six inches long), or if it is located on the driver’s side or near the edge of the windshield, you will likely need to replace the entire windshield. Replacing a windshield involves removing the old one and installing a new one that meets the safety standards. Replacing a windshield can be expensive (ranging from $200 to $1000 depending on your car model and insurance coverage), but it will ensure that your car passes inspection and that you are safe on the road.

To fix a cracked windshield, you should contact a professional auto glass company that can assess the damage and provide you with an estimate. You should also check with your insurance company if they cover any part of the cost. Some insurance policies may waive your deductible or reimburse you for repairing or replacing your windshield if it is damaged by road hazards or vandalism.

If you need to fix your cracked windshield before taking it in for inspection, don’t wait until the last minute. Schedule an appointment with an auto glass company as soon as possible and get it done before your inspection deadline. This way, you can avoid getting a ticket or having to pay for another inspection fee.

How to prevent windshield cracks in the future?

While you can’t avoid all windshield cracks, you can take some steps to prevent them or minimize their impact. Here are some tips:

Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially trucks and trailers that may kick up rocks and debris.
Avoid driving in extreme weather conditions, such as hail, snow, or ice, that can damage your windshield.
Park your car in a shaded area or use a sunshade to protect your windshield from heat and UV rays.
Clean your windshield regularly and use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to avoid scratches.
Replace your windshield wipers when they become worn or damaged, as they can cause cracks if they rub against the glass.
Inspect your windshield for any chips or cracks and get them fixed as soon as possible before they grow larger.

By following these tips, you can keep your windshield in good shape and avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Conclusion

A cracked windshield is not only an eyesore, but also a safety hazard and a potential reason for failing inspection. Depending on the size, location, and severity of the crack, you may need to repair or replace your windshield before taking it in for inspection. To fix a cracked windshield, you should contact a professional auto glass company that can provide you with an estimate and a quality service. You should also check with your insurance company if they cover any part of the cost. To prevent windshield cracks in the future, you should follow some simple tips to protect your windshield from damage. By doing so, you can ensure that your car passes inspection and that you are safe on the road.

How to find a reliable auto glass company?

If you need to fix your cracked windshield, you should look for a reliable auto glass company that can provide you with a quality service and a fair price. Here are some tips to help you find one:

Ask for recommendations from your friends, family, or coworkers who have had their windshields repaired or replaced.
Check online reviews and ratings from previous customers on sites like Yelp, Google, or Angie’s List.
Compare prices and quotes from different companies and look for any hidden fees or charges.
Look for certifications and accreditations from organizations like the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) or the National Glass Association (NGA).
Ask about the warranty and guarantee policies of the company and what they cover.
Choose a company that offers mobile service and can come to your location to fix your windshield.

By following these tips, you can find a trustworthy auto glass company that can fix your cracked windshield and help you pass inspection.

How to get a waiver for a cracked windshield?

In some cases, you may be able to get a waiver for a cracked windshield if you can prove that it is not a safety hazard and that it is too expensive to fix. However, this option is not available in every state and it may have some limitations. Here are some steps to apply for a waiver:

Check with your local DMV or inspection station if they offer waivers for cracked windshields and what are the requirements and conditions.
Get an estimate from an auto glass company for repairing or replacing your windshield and keep the receipt.
Take your car in for inspection and show the inspector the estimate and the receipt.
If the inspector agrees that your windshield is not a safety hazard and that the cost of fixing it is too high, they may issue you a waiver that will allow you to pass inspection.
Keep the waiver in your car and show it to any law enforcement officer if they stop you for having a cracked windshield.

Note that getting a waiver does not mean that you are exempt from fixing your windshield. It only means that you can pass inspection temporarily until you can afford to fix it. Also, getting a waiver does not protect you from getting a ticket in another state if they have different laws and regulations regarding cracked windshields. Therefore, it is best to fix your cracked windshield as soon as possible and avoid getting a waiver.

How to prepare your car for inspection?

If you have fixed your cracked windshield and you are ready to take your car in for inspection, you should make sure that your car meets all the other requirements and standards. Here are some tips to prepare your car for inspection:

Clean your car inside and out and remove any clutter or trash.
Check your lights, signals, horn, and wipers and make sure they work properly.
Check your tires, brakes, and suspension and make sure they are in good condition.
Check your fluids, belts, hoses, and filters and make sure they are at the right levels and not leaking.
Check your emissions system and make sure it is not producing excessive smoke or noise.
Check your registration, insurance, and license plate and make sure they are valid and up to date.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your car passes inspection without any problems or delays.

How to save money on windshield repair or replacement?

If you need to repair or replace your windshield, you may be wondering how to save money on it. Here are some ways to reduce the cost of windshield repair or replacement:

Shop around and compare prices and quotes from different auto glass companies and look for discounts or coupons.
Check with your insurance company if they cover any part of the cost of windshield repair or replacement and if they have any preferred providers.
Repair small cracks or chips before they grow larger and require a full replacement.
Choose aftermarket or used windshields instead of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) windshields if they meet the safety standards.
Schedule an appointment with an auto glass company as soon as possible and avoid peak hours or seasons.

By following these ways, you can save money on windshield repair or replacement and pass inspection without breaking the bank.