If you’ve never had a windshield replaced before, it can feel like a black box: How long does it take? Is it safe? What actually happens to your car?
Here’s a clear, step-by-step look at exactly what happens during a professional windshield replacement—so you know what to expect from start to finish.
Step 1: Vehicle Inspection
The technician inspects your vehicle to confirm the correct glass, check for sensors or cameras, and assess any surrounding damage. This ensures the replacement windshield meets your vehicle’s specifications.
Step 2: Protecting the Vehicle
Before removing the old glass, protective coverings are placed over the hood, dashboard, and seats. This prevents debris or tools from damaging your car’s interior or exterior.
Step 3: Removing the Damaged Windshield
The technician carefully cuts through the adhesive bonding the windshield to the frame and removes the damaged glass. This step requires precision to avoid harming the vehicle’s paint or pinchweld.
Step 4: Preparing the Frame
Old adhesive is trimmed, the bonding surface is cleaned, and a primer is applied if needed. Proper preparation is critical—this is what ensures your new windshield seals correctly and stays secure.
Step 5: Installing the New Windshield
Fresh automotive-grade adhesive is applied, and the new windshield is positioned with exact alignment. The glass is pressed into place and secured according to manufacturer standards.
Step 6: ADAS Recalibration (If Required)
If your vehicle has cameras or sensors, they are recalibrated to ensure safety systems function correctly. This may be done on-site or at a specialized facility, depending on the vehicle.
Step 7: Safe-Drive-Away Time
The adhesive needs time to cure. Your technician will tell you how long to wait before driving—usually anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours—so the windshield sets properly.
Step 8: Final Safety Check
Before completion, the technician checks seals, alignment, and system functionality to make sure everything meets safety standards.
The result: a properly installed windshield that restores visibility, structural integrity, and safety features.
👉 Ready to see how much your windshield replacement will cost? Get a fast, personalized quote now.