Ever wondered what happens when a technician comes to replace your windscreen? There’s more to it than simply removing the old glass and fitting a new one. Here’s what the process usually involves.
Step 1: Booking and vehicle details
When you book a windscreen replacement, the technician will confirm your vehicle’s make, model and year, along with features such as rain sensors, a heads-up display (HUD), cameras or automatic emergency braking.
These details help identify the right windscreen for your vehicle. You may also be asked to send a photo of the area around your rear-view mirror so the technician can check for cameras or sensors, or a photo of the damage to help determine whether it can be repaired or needs replacing.
Step 2: Arrival and preparation
When the technician arrives, they may take photos to document your vehicle’s condition, including any existing damage. These photos can also help with insurance claims where required.
The new windscreen is placed on a specialised stand to be cleaned and prepared. Suction cups are then attached so the technician can safely lift and position the glass.
Step 3: Removing the old windscreen
Depending on the vehicle, the technician may first need to remove the windscreen wipers, surrounding trims or plastic covers.
The old windscreen is then cut free using specialised tools. These may include a hand-operated cutting blade or a wire removal system, which draws a cutting wire around the glass to separate it from the urethane adhesive holding it in place.
Once the adhesive has been cut all the way around, the damaged windscreen can be carefully lifted out.
Step 4: Preparing and installing the new windscreen
With the old glass removed, the technician prepares the bonding surface by trimming back the existing urethane and cleaning the area.
Where required, primers or other surface treatments are applied to support proper bonding and protect exposed metal against corrosion. Fresh automotive urethane adhesive is then applied to the vehicle or the new windscreen, depending on the installation method.
The new glass is carefully lifted into place and aligned with the vehicle. Temporary tape may be used to help keep it in position while the adhesive begins to cure.
Finally, the technician refits the wipers, trims and other components, then checks the installation.
Step 5: ADAS camera calibration
Many modern vehicles have forward-facing cameras near the rear-view mirror. These cameras support driver assistance features such as lane departure warnings, lane keeping assistance and automatic emergency braking.
After a windscreen replacement, the camera may need to be recalibrated. The procedure depends on the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements.
There are two common calibration methods:
Dynamic calibration: Diagnostic equipment is connected to the vehicle, and the technician carries out a controlled drive under specific conditions, where the vehicle supports this method.
Static calibration: The vehicle remains stationary while specialised target boards and calibration equipment are used to align the camera. This procedure may require a suitable workshop environment.
Some vehicles require both methods. Your technician can advise what applies to your vehicle and arrange the appropriate procedure.
When is it safe to drive?
The urethane adhesive needs time to reach its minimum safe drive-away strength. The wait can vary depending on the adhesive, conditions and vehicle requirements. Your technician will tell you when your vehicle is safe to drive.
Making the process easier
There’s quite a bit involved in replacing a windscreen. A mobile service can make the process easier by bringing the tools, glass and expertise to your home or workplace, where site conditions allow.
At Legacy Autoglass, we provide mobile windscreen replacement across Melbourne’s eastern and south-eastern areas. Where ADAS calibration is required, we can advise on the appropriate procedure and arrange it for your vehicle.
Need a windscreen replacement? Call Legacy Autoglass on 0423 714 497 or visit our website to request a quote.
Life’s busy enough. A windscreen replacement shouldn’t make it harder.