Nissan Altima users often face windshield chip or crack problems. A chip/crack can grow quite fast in a really short time. Thus, you’ve to fix it as soon as possible before it becomes unrepairable.
So, how to fix a nissan altima windshield crack?
Not all sorts of cracks are repairable. If it’s a small chip then it’s fully repairable. However, a crack bigger than a coin can’t be fixed. To fix it, you only need resin and a windshield repair kit. However, if you see any chip/crack around the edge, you must replace the windshield.
Anyways, that was only a small preview of the discussion. Stay with us if you want to know more information regarding this issue.
So, let’s not beat around the bush any longer and head right in-
Which Windshield Cracks Are Repairable?
In most cases, small pebbles get detached from tires. These can directly hit the windshield. So, first, you’ve to know whether the windshield crack is repairable or not.
There are 3 conditions a windshield chip/crack must meet-
- Crack or chip hole: A windshield crack or chip must have a hole. This is where the resin will sit. Without it, the resin won’t be able to pass through. To check this, run your fingernail and see if you can feel a dent or not. You can also use a push pin to do it.
- Smaller than a coin: Another important thing to keep in mind is the crack’s size. Take a quarter and put it on the crack/chip. If it’s bigger than the coin, you’re better off replacing the windshield.
- Not at the edge: When a car crashes, the force enters the windshield via edges. So, a crack on the edge will easily break the windshield into a thousand pieces. In this case, you must replace the windshield.
So, if your windshield crack/chip fulfills all the requirements, you can start repairing it. Down below, we’ve provided a full procedure on how to repair a windshield chip.
Fix Your Windshield Chip or Crack in 4 Steps
For this to work, we will need an open space but no sunlight. So, park your car in any shed that has decent exposure to air and daylight.
Also, the windshield needs to be warmed up. Thus, if you’re living in a cold area, park it in a garage. You can also turn the heater on to warm it up.
You’re going to need the following items to begin repairing-
- Alcohol
- Microfiber cloth
- Glass Cleaner
- Windshield Repair Kit (Single & Multi)
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Duct Tape
- UV Flashlight
- Resin Dropper
- Curing Strip
Get these tools as soon as possible and let’s get started.
Step 1: Clean the Windshield Chip
Before everything else, stick a piece of cardboard underneath the chip and tape it. This will let us see the crack better. Use good quality duct tape for this.
In case you’re looking for one, take a look at our recommendations below-
Now, get the repair kit and take the pushpin from it. Take out any particles of broken glass from the chip.
When done, take a microfiber cloth and pour some alcohol on it. After that, clean the chip or crack hole thoroughly. You can also use a glass cleaner to clean it.
Speaking about repair kits, here are our favorite picks-
From here, you can grab whatever you like and get started right away!
Step 2: Apply the Resin
Now, get the self-adhesive disc from the repair kit. Peel off the layer from one side of the adhesive disc.
Place the adhesive side centered around the chip while the tab is facing upwards. After that, press on the disc with your fingers so that it sits on the glass properly.
Now, peel off the remaining layer and you’ll see another adhesive surface. Get the pedestal from the repair kit. Place it properly on the adhesive disc.
It’s time to get the resin tube or resin bottle. Slowly pour resin drop by drop till the pedestal fills up.
Step 3: Create a Vacuum with Syringe
There’s still air inside the pedestal and we definitely don’t need that. You can see air bubbles if you look from underneath.
So, get the syringe that you’ve been provided. Make sure the plunger is pushed all the way down below.
Now, push the syringe on the pedestal. Grab it with your left hand and push downwards as you lift up the plunger.
When the plunger is all the way above, lock it with the provided tab. And you’re done.
Now, you’ve to gently knock around the chip. Otherwise, it’ll spread. It’ll help the stuck air bubble vibrate and go up. When done, let it stay for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Remove the Pedestal and Clean Up
Okay, so you’ve waited and now it’s time to clean up. To do that, get the razor that comes with the kit and start peeling from the top.
Take off the pedestal and the disc respectively. By now, you’re probably seeing some resin on the chip. Get the resin dropper and pour a single drop. Then place the curing strip on the chip.
Now, take the razor and use it as a squeegee. It’ll squeeze all the air out of the chip. Then let it stay in daylight for an hour. You can also use a UV flashlight as an alternative.
You can get one from our suggestions down below. You won’t be disappointed with these-
When done, take the razor and push it underneath and peel off all around the chip. Then rotate the strip clockwise and it’ll come off.
And with that, you’re done. Don’t forget to congratulate yourself. Also, if you think this is messy and quite a hassle, just call a professional.
Moreover, if your crack is big or hard to fix, you can always replace the windshield. It’s always the safest way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: How much does it cost to replace a windshield nissan altima?
Answer: An average price to replace a newer version of altima takes around 500 USD. However, the cost in the older version (2011-2015) is around 250 USD.
Question: How fast do windshield cracks spread?
Answer: If a cracked windshield comes in contact, it will spread rapidly. Also, in winter, it will spread automatically because of freezing temperatures.
Question: Does insurance cover windshields?
Answer: Yes, the insurance will cover the windshields if it’s included in the plan. Although the replacement cost will be deducted.
Conclusion
This was the only solution we could find on nissan altima windshield crack. We hope it has at least cleared your confusion about what to do.
So, good luck with your windshield!
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