Why Repair my Windscreen Chip?
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, certain issues may seem minor or insignificant at first glance. One such issue is a chip in your windscreen. While it may be tempting to overlook or postpone its repair, doing so can have significant consequences. In this blog, we will look at the importance of getting your windshield chip repair as soon as possible and discuss the potential consequences of neglecting this seemingly small problem.
Safety Hazard
A windscreen chip may appear harmless, but it compromises the structural integrity of your vehicle’s windshield. Over time, the chip can expand and develop into a crack, impairing the driver’s visibility and potentially leading to accidents. What’s more, a weakened windscreen may fail to provide adequate protection in the event of a collision or rollover, putting you and your passengers at risk of serious injuries.
Legal Implications
The relevant legislation is the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, specifically Regulation 30. According to this regulation, it is an offense to drive a motor vehicle with a windscreen in such a condition that it adversely affects the driver’s view of the road. It’s also important to bear in mind that you could fail your MOT if the chip or crack in the windscreen is larger than 40mm in the driver’s line of sight or larger than 10mm in the area directly in front of the driver.
Insurance Coverage for Windshield Chip Repair and Replacement
Many insurance policies cover windscreen repairs or replacements, often with no or minimal impact on your premium. However, most insurers require immediate action when it comes to repairing chips to prevent further damage. Delaying the repair could result in your claim being denied or additional costs being incurred. Therefore, it is essential to check your policy and take advantage of the coverage available to you.
Reduced Resale Value
If you plan to sell or trade-in your vehicle in the future, an unrepaired windscreen chip can significantly impact its resale value. Potential buyers or dealerships may view the chip as a sign of poor maintenance, resulting in lower offers or difficulties in selling the vehicle altogether. By addressing windscreen damage promptly, you maintain the value and appeal of your car.
Costly Windscreen Replacement
The longer you postpone the repair of a windscreen chip, the higher the chances it will develop into a crack that requires a full windscreen replacement. Compared to the relatively affordable repair cost of a small chip, a windscreen replacement in London can be significantly more expensive. By acting promptly, you can avoid the unnecessary financial burden of replacing the entire windscreen.
When you see a chip, you may be able to avoid a windshield glass repair claim if you act quickly.
Remember the rule of thumb is as follows:
A windscreen / windshield chip less than 3mm (smaller than a matchstick head) does not usually need to be repaired.
A windscreen / windshield chip less than 25mm (smaller than a £2 coin) is repairable.
A windscreen / windshield chip over 25mm is usually non-repairable.
Call Us Today
For a repair that you know will be done right, call Centre Glass today. Call or WhatsApp on 07923 449354 email centreglass@mail.com visit www.centreglass.org
We offer repairs that are fast and convenient. If your windscreen / windshield has a chip we’re here to help. We cover the whole of the Midlands – Birmingham, Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, Stoke on Trent, Sheffield, Solihull, Coventry, Mansfield, Chesterfield, Lichfield, Cannock, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Redditch, Newark on Trent, Uttoxeter, Stafford, Burton Upon Trent, Dudley, Nuneaton, Melton Mowbray, Bromsgrove, Cheadle, Rocester, Kegworth, Loughborough, Castle Donnington, Ripley, Alfreton, Buxton, Ashbourne, Hilton, Stratford Upon Avon, Warwick, Leamington Spa, West Midlands, East Midlands.