The Neglected Windshield (Windshield Care)
July 14, 2024
You look at it every day, yet you don't really see it. We're talking about your vehicle's windshield, and if you're not seeing it at all, that's probably a good sign. The fact is that unless our windshields get fogged up, hazy or cracked, we don't pay all that much attention to them. Considering how vital front visibility is in a vehicle, paying a little more attention to your windshield will pay off in the long run.
Keep it clean! In ancient times when gas stations had attendants who filled your tank for you, they used to clean the outside of your windshield while the fuel was being dispensed. In these days of self-serve gas, we don't have that luxury any more. But it's a good idea to clean your windshield regularly, even when it's not filthy. If you let dirt build up on the outside, it acts like fine sandpaper when you turn on your wipers when the glass is dry. Really, try to avoid turning on your wipers unless your windshield is wet. If you must use your wipers to clear off something like bird droppings, use your washers liberally to help avoid scratches.
It's also important to wash the inside of the windshield, too. Even if you're not a smoker, you might notice the inside glass sometimes get a greasy film on it. That's the plastic inside your vehicle off-gassing petroleum products that they're made of. A hazy windshield when you are driving directly into low sun can blind you. Use soaps that are made for automotive glass since they won't streak or harm vehicle interiors. Your service advisor can recommend some.
Keep an eye on your windshield wiper blades. Let them go too long without replacing them and you might wind up with the metal wiper frame actually touching the glass, a recipe for major scratches when you turn your wipers on.
Finally, do a quick inspection every once in a while for chips in your windshield glass. Catch them quickly and they can be repaired while they're still small. Often they will spread into a major crack, and at that point you'll have to have the whole thing replaced.
So there you have it. Give your windshield a little love and it will reward you back with a beautifully clear view of the road up ahead.
Charlie's Fast Lube Sparta
10 Northtown Drive
Sparta, Illinois 62286
618-443-6112
http://www.charliesfastlubesparta.com
Need Service?
More articles from Charlie's Fast Lube Sparta
The ?Man-Made? Engine Oil (Synthetic Oil Change)
July 7, 2025
If you own a newer vehicle, your vehicles manufacturer may require that it use synthetic oil instead of conventional oil. Synthetic oils are more stable, dont break down as easily, and provide better engine protection than conventional oil. All those things can prolong the life of your engine an... More
Do you have a Clue (Get the Most Out of a Service Visit)
June 29, 2025
When you head to the doctor, you probably have it in your mind what you're going to say about why you don't feel good. That way your doctor can use that information to diagnose your problem. You might want to think of that same approach when you take your vehicle in for a repair. Experts say wha... More
Busted! Air Conditioning (Air Conditioning Maintenance)
June 23, 2025
Your vehicle's air conditioning is something you count on when the weather heats up. But there's bound to be a day when you turn it on and one of these things happens: Only warm air blows out Cold air starts blowing out but then it turns warm on its own It's not blowing air at all It blows smel... More