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How to Check if Your Windscreen Needs Repair or Replacement Before an MOT

Your windscreen is a crucial part of your car and can make a big difference in how safe it is to drive. It also plays a key role in your car passing its MOT. A damaged windscreen could cause you to fail, but you can avoid this by checking it regularly. 

Keeping an eye on it helps you find small problems before they get worse. Fixing damage early not only saves you money but also keeps your car safe and roadworthy. 

Follow these straightforward steps to find out if your windscreen needs to be repaired or replaced.

Windscreen Repair or Replace – Step by Step guide

Step 1: Look for Damage

Carefully examine your windscreen for chips, cracks, or scratches. Focus on these key points:

  • Size: Use a ruler or tape measure to check the size of any chips or cracks. If a chip is larger than 10mm in the driver’s view or bigger than 40mm elsewhere, it could lead to an MOT failure.
  • Location: Damage in the driver’s field of vision, about the size of an A4 sheet of paper centred on the steering wheel, needs immediate attention. Even small chips here can cause problems.

If you’re not sure how serious the damage is, take a photo and compare it with MOT guidelines or ask a professional to inspect it.

Step 2: Check If It Blocks Your View

Think about how the damage affects your ability to see the road. Small chips can scatter sunlight or headlights, making it harder to focus. This issue becomes more noticeable in poor weather, such as rain, fog, or snow. If the damage makes it harder to see clearly, it could lead to an MOT failure.

Step 3: Look at the Edges

Take a close look at the edges of your windscreen. Cracks near the edges can weaken the entire structure, making it more likely to break. Damage here is often more severe and could mean the windscreen needs replacing instead of repairing.

Cracks can also spread over time, especially if your car vibrates a lot or if there are sudden changes in temperature. Addressing edge damage quickly can stop these cracks from growing.

Step 4: Test the Wipers’ Path

Turn on your windscreen wipers to see if the damage is in their range. Any chips, cracks, or scratches in this area can reduce visibility and make it harder to drive safely in bad weather. 

The wiper’s path is checked during an MOT, so damage here must be fixed.

Also, inspect the wipers themselves. Damaged or worn-out wipers can scratch the glass, causing more problems. Replace them if needed to avoid additional issues.

Step 5: Check for Spreading Cracks

Look at any cracks and see if they are getting longer. Cracks tend to grow due to vibrations from driving or temperature changes, like frost or heat. Larger cracks weaken your windscreen and increase the risk of failing an MOT.

Be cautious when defrosting your windscreen. Avoid pouring hot water on frozen glass, as this can make cracks spread. Fix cracks as soon as you notice them to prevent further damage.

Step 6: Feel for Scratches

Run your fingers gently over any scratches to see how deep they are. Light scratches might not cause problems during an MOT, but deeper ones can distort your view or reflect sunlight, which can be dangerous.

For shallow scratches, try a glass repair kit to smooth them out. If the scratches are too deep, get advice from a windscreen specialist.

Step 7: Decide What to Do

Here’s how to decide whether your windscreen needs repairing or replacing:

Step 8: Get Expert Help

If you’re unsure about the damage, contact a windscreen repair service. Many companies offer mobile services, so they can check your windscreen at home or work. Specialists use tools and techniques to repair or replace windscreens safely, ensuring the job meets MOT requirements.

Getting professional help gives you peace of mind and ensures your car remains safe to drive.

Step 9: Check Your Windscreen Often

Make it a habit to check your windscreen regularly. Cleaning the glass helps you spot small chips or cracks you might miss otherwise. Frequent checks allow you to address minor issues before they turn into bigger problems.

A clean, damage-free windscreen not only improves your driving safety but also ensures your car is ready for its MOT. 

Fixing issues quickly saves money and keeps your car roadworthy. Regular care is the best way to maintain your windscreen.

From the expert

You don’t always have to go to the expense and labour of replacing your windscreen. Sometimes it can be a simple repair which could save you a lot of money. We hope this guide has helped you, sometimes it’s worth researching before calling just anyone.

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