How to Tell If a Windshield Repair Was Done Correctly

A damaged windshield can affect both visibility and safety. So, when you get a windshield repair, it’s important to know whether the job was done right. While most people leave the shop hoping for the best, there are a few clear signs that help you tell if the repair is solid or if it might lead to more problems later.

This article walks you through what a quality windshield repair should look like, what red flags to watch for, and how it compares to a full windshield replacement. If you’re wondering how to check the work done on your vehicle, this guide is for you.

What a Good Repair Looks Like

After a proper repair, the damaged area should look much better than before, but don’t expect it to disappear completely. Even the best repair may leave a slight blemish, like a small blur or spot. What matters more is that:

The crack or chip has stopped growing

The repaired area feels smooth and level

There are no sharp edges or cracks left exposed

Good repairs use a clear resin that fills in the crack or chip, bonding the glass together and restoring structural strength. It should be flush with the rest of the glass. When done well, it also helps stop future cracking caused by temperature changes or vibration.

Signs That the Windshield Repair Wasn’t Done Right

Here are some signs that your repair wasn’t up to standard:

Crack is still spreading – This is the biggest warning sign. A proper repair should stop the damage from spreading. If the crack continues to grow, the repair is likely to fail.

Cloudy or white appearance – This can happen if the resin used wasn’t properly cured or if the technician didn’t use the right technique.

Bubbles in the resin – Air pockets in the filled area weaken the repair. You might see small circles or spots where the resin didn’t settle right.

The surface feels rough or uneven – A smooth surface is key. If it feels raised or gritty, the repair might not last long.

Visible dirt or debris – If the area wasn’t cleaned well before applying resin, the repair can trap dirt, making it look worse and weakening the bond.

If you spot any of these issues, go back to the shop or call your provider. Many reputable shops guarantee their repair work and will redo it if something’s off.

Windshield Replacement vs. Repair

Sometimes, even the best repair won’t be enough. Knowing the difference between a repair and windshield replacement helps you make the right call.

Repair is ideal for small chips and cracks (less than a few inches long), especially if they’re not in your line of vision.

Replacement is necessary when the damage is large, spreads across the windshield, or impacts sensors like those used in ADAS systems (lane assist, collision detection, etc.).

A proper replacement involves removing the old glass, applying new adhesive, placing the new windshield, and letting it cure. The process can also include recalibrating safety sensors to make sure your car systems still work properly.

How to Check If a Replacement Was Done Correctly

If you had a full windshield replacement, here’s what you should look for after the job:

No wind noise while driving – A good seal means the ride should be quiet.

No visible gaps in the seal – The rubber gasket or adhesive should fully surround the glass.

Glass sits evenly – The windshield shouldn’t look slanted, off-center, or sit too low/high.

All sensors recalibrated – Modern vehicles have cameras and sensors in the windshield area. Ask if recalibration was done (especially for ADAS-equipped vehicles).

If any of these checks raise concerns, get it looked at quickly. A poorly installed windshield can pop out in an accident or cause leaks and visibility issues.

Conclusion

It’s easy to assume a job was done well just because the glass looks “fixed.” But small mistakes during a repair/replacement can lead to safety issues or expensive do-overs down the road.

Don’t be afraid to ask your technician questions:

What kind of resin did they use?

Was the area cleaned and prepped?

How long should you wait before driving?

Was recalibration performed (if applicable)?

A trustworthy glass repair shop should be happy to explain their process. And if something doesn’t look or feel right, go back and have them check it.

By knowing what to expect and what to watch out for, you’ll feel more confident the next time your windshield gets repaired or replaced.