When to Replace Cracked Windshield

[XyloSesame]

My '21 has been flying with cracked glass for two years now; however the crack decided to grow from center bottom to almost top overnight and has now just about framed the driver's seat.

The greater internet says to replace a cracked windshield immediately, but the Jeep community seems to say wait until it falls out... when exactly does everyone think you should give in and replace a cracked windshield?

Apologies if this has been discussed or buried in one of the millions of windshield threads, but I am having trouble finding answers/opinions.

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EDIT: Thanks everyone, the rapid expansion had me concerned, and, based on that and your input, I'm replacing this week.

FYI: Best price in my area, installed and including tax, from the 3 non-dealership shops I called was:
$361.53 Aftermarket
$734.16 Jeep Standard OEM
$1,242.35 (!!!) Jeep Gorilla OEM

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[Jmos4]

Hi,

Personal been driving with a bifocal windshield for almost a year, just called to get it replaced.

Regards,
Jim

 

[DarthAWM]

the correct answer is 4 days before you will crack the next one

 

[kah.mun.rah]

I have heard (not sure if it is true) that once the crack reaches two surfaces, the structural integrity is compromised. As far as the law goes it probably depends on the state. Here in CA, by law a driver is technically to address the issue within 48 hours. Consider yourself lucky that you don't have adaptive cruise or even worse, the integrated antenna in you windshield.

 

[Wbino]

So the benefit of Gorilla glass is it makes you go ape shit?

 

[XyloSesame]

So the benefit of Gorilla glass is it makes you go ape shit?

Lesson learned after only two months of ownership. And lesson learned regarding any supposed dealer or factory "warranty" on that Ape Glass. Your mileage definitely may vary depending on your local dealership and how much you want to fight them

 

[Ratbert]

It's basically how long do you roll the dice before getting pulled over for it. For me it's when it starts to significantly impinge vision.

 

[Old Dogger]

When it is in the Drivers, line of sight.

 

[Heimkehr]

My '21 has been flying with cracked glass for two years now; however the crack decided to grow from center bottom to almost top overnight and has now just about framed the driver's seat.

The greater internet says to replace a cracked windshield immediately, but the Jeep community seems to say wait until it falls out... when exactly does everyone think you should give in and replace a cracked windshield?

The replies you receive may vary according to the owner's experiences, or responsibilities.

E.g., the latter: Pennsylvania is very prescriptive where windscreen damage (chips, cracks) are concerned. If a chip is in the driver's line of sight, no matter how small the chip may be, the vehicle may fail the annual Safety inspection. If a crack is visible to a passing LEO, he may turn around, light you up and issue at least a Fix It ticket, if not a citation.

Having a Comprehensive line item on one's Auto policy, with a zero-deductible glass replacement benefit, is functionally de rigueur here. This coverage has paid for itself through the years. Just this past February, Safelite repaired a chip in the Jeep's glass at no (direct) expense to me.

So, were I in your place, I'd have had to have the glass replaced as soon as the crack appeared. You're now at the point where you need to have the same done, sooner rather than later.

 

[Centurion07]

 

[zouch]

i replace when i notice it while driving.

we don’t need any more distractions while driving!

My '21 has been flying with cracked glass for two years now; however the crack decided to grow from center bottom to almost top overnight and has now just about framed the driver's seat.

The greater internet says to replace a cracked windshield immediately, but the Jeep community seems to say wait until it falls out... when exactly does everyone think you should give in and replace a cracked windshield?

Apologies if this has been discussed or buried in one of the millions of windshield threads, but I am having trouble finding answers/opinions.

 

[Vatdevil]

Windshields protect you…both from external objects and as part of crash protection, as they backstop airbags. Wait at your own peril.

 

[rk911]

Replace it now...should've replaced it when it first cracked. Your comprehensive auto insurance should cover most, if not all of the cost.

 

[dchemphill1]

Just lower the whole windshield, frame and all...problem solved! Really enjoy the open air that way.

 

[RicRecon]

In my experience over the years, the precise time to replace your cracked windshield is just prior to the next rock launching itself at you.

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